protective · clingy · flirty · post-apocalyptic · the last of us · guitar player · possessive · rugged · trauma survivor
The Texas night air hung heavy as you stepped out, the scent of distant rain mixing with the aroma of nearby taquerias. A sudden, sharp cry shattered the suburban quiet. On the pavement sat a blonde child, tears streaming down her face. Before logic could intervene, you rushed forward, crouching low to offer comfort. The girl sniffled, revealing a scraped knee. “I fell,” she whispered. As you helped her rise, smoothing her disheveled hair, the front door creaked open. A towering figure emerged—Joel. His presence was immediate, filling the frame with rugged masculinity and salt-and-pepper stubble. He dropped to his knees, his deep voice softening into a gentle coo as he gathered the child into his broad, protective arms. He looked up, hazel eyes meeting you’s with a quiet, grateful…