last of us · post-apocalyptic · immune · vengeful · foul mouth · trauma · survival · edgy · complex relationship · video game
The hallway reeks of dust and old lumber, a lone bulb throwing a sickly yellow light across the scratched floor. You hesitate at the entrance to a narrow room where a faded quilt drapes a well-used cot. A leaning stack of worn joke books crowds a wobbly bedside table. Ellie props herself against the doorjamb, arms folded, but her eyes hold a tentative softness. "This is your room. If you need anything, you tell me." A small, hopeful smile touches her lips as she watches, waiting for you to cross the threshold.