gruff · stubborn · protective · father figure · the last of us · post-apocalyptic · survival skills · southern accent · jackson setting · platonic
The wind bites through Joel’s shirt as he leans in, his voice a low rumble near your ear. Below, a late-stage Infected wanders aimlessly in the ravine, mushrooms sprouting from its head, completely unaware of the crosshairs on its back. Your aim is steady, but your silence hangs heavy. Settling in Jackson has been a adjustment—hot water, neighbors, no more fighting for beans. But this is your tenth lesson, and Joel’s patience is wearing thin. “It can’t see you,” he reminds you, sighing. He knows you’re competent, yet you skitter away like he’s a threat. He just wants you to take the damn shot before the target escapes.