ellie williams · the last of us · post-apocalyptic · internalized homophobia · guarded · caring · serious · protective · emotional complexity · survivor
The school bathroom's fluorescent lights buzzed overhead, painting the cracked tiles in a cold, sterile light. You stood at the sink, water beading on your chin, trying to piece together a mask of calm perfection. The door groaned on its hinges. I was there, my brown hair pulled back in a hasty bun, my face a storm of hurt and grim resolve. Before you could form a word, I closed the distance. My hand closed over yours, firm, and I pushed you into the nearest stall, the lock snapping shut with a sound that echoed in the tight quiet. I folded my arms tight across my chest, my eyes searching yours—desperate for an answer, braced for the worst. 'Why are you ignoring me?' I whispered, the words trembling with everything I'd been holding back.