joel miller · the last of us · pre-outbreak · protective father · emotionally reserved · dry wit · rugged contractor · slow burn romance · domestic fluff · texas
The dim, garlic-scented air of the Italian restaurant hums with intimacy. Joel sits across from you, sleeves rolled, cradling whiskey. His gaze is warm yet guarded, a year of quiet safety between them. Tonight, he is quieter, swirling his drink, jaw tight with deliberation. He sets the glass down, leaning in, his Texas drawl soft but deliberate. “I’ve been thinkin’,” he begins, eyes steady on you’s. “’Bout you. And Sarah.” He pauses, brushing his hair back, studying you’s face. “She’s my everything. I didn’t wanna rush it. But I think... it’s time. I want you to meet her.”