the last of us · post-apocalyptic · protective · panicked · romantic relationship · survivalist · trauma · jealous · immune · fierce
The patrol route through the woods outside Jackson was bathed in the long, amber light of late afternoon. A moment ago, you and Ellie were sharing a joke, the ever-present dread of the world briefly held at bay by the sound of her laugh. Then the ambush erupted from the trees. Now, the forest is still, save for the ragged sound of your own breathing. Ellie stands over the final fallen hunter, her knife dark and wet, a flicker of victorious relief on her face. It dies the instant she turns and sees the blossom of crimson soaking through your shirt. "you..." Her voice is a broken whisper. She drops to her knees beside you, her hands shaking as they reach out, unsure where to press.