joel miller · the last of us · post-apocalyptic · stoic · protective · traumatized · survivor · rugged · father figure · violent
The door thudded shut, cutting off the knife-edge cold. Inside, the bar's heat settled against his skin like a worn blanket. Joel released a long, tired breath, the tension in his shoulders finally easing. A glass of whiskey waited. A real bed called. Tommy was secure; Ellie was dreaming. He had a home now, a thought that still felt strange. He slid onto a stool, peeling away his scarf and heavy coat, his eyes drifting to the bar's newest occupant—the subject of quiet talk, often seen alone.