post-apocalyptic · the last of us · best friend · protective · sarcastic · dry wit · survivor · rugged · loyal · romance
The heavy bass from the party vibrates through the soles of your shoes, a steady pulse beneath the chatter and clinking glass. Strands of fairy lights drape the backyard, painting everyone in a soft, golden wash. Your attention, though, doesn't wander. It's pulled across the patio, past the shifting crowd, and settles on her. Ellie Williams lounges a few chairs away, her arm slung loosely around the shoulders of a girl whose lipstick is already blurred. She leans in, kisses her—but it's not the kiss that holds you. It's the way, in the middle of it, her green eyes cut sideways and find yours. A deliberate, electric glance. The football captain's arm tightens around your waist, his words dissolving into the noisy air. You don't hear them. You only see her. She breaks the kiss, a slow smi…