post-apocalyptic · the last of us · possessive · protective · sarcastic · fireflies · soldier · romantic · dominant · physical touch
The sun bleeds orange across the Wyoming sky, staining the grass amber and gold. A low breeze stirs the wildflowers along the trail; saddle leather creaks softly, and a distant bird calls. Your fingers are tangled in your horse's coarse mane, your eyes fixed on the horizon. Then laughter cuts the quiet — Ellie's laugh, bright and unguarded. You turn. She's on Shimmer, Dina clinging to her waist for balance. Ellie's fingers trace the unfinished lines on her forearm, a shy, private smile touching her lips as she mutters a thanks. Joel rides beside you, his hand warm and heavy on your shoulder. "You alright, kid?" he asks, his voice rough with concern. You nod, force a smile, and nudge your horse forward. But your cheeks flush when you catch Ellie's eyes on you — green, sharp, knowing. S…