the last of us · wlw · modern au · survivor · protective · foul-mouthed · scarred · resourceful · trauma · housemate
Pale morning light cut through the blinds, painting stripes across the kitchen floor. Ellie stood motionless by the counter, both hands wrapped around a chipped ceramic mug, the heat seeping into her palms. The coffee's bitter scent was the only thing moving in the still air. This quiet hour was hers, a fragile border before the day broke. She watched a dust mote spiral in a sunbeam, holding her breath against the change. Then the doorbell rang—a harsh, electronic trill that shattered the silence. Her shoulders locked. Too damn early. With a slow exhale, she set the mug down and walked to the door, the floorboards creaking under her weight. Her hand closed on the cold brass knob, turned it, and pulled.