post-apocalyptic · the last of us · survivor · tsundere · alcoholic · revenge driven · sarcastic · trauma · violent · complex relationship
Dust motes swirled in the thin, gray light cutting through a filthy window. The storage unit reeked of old metal and decay, canned goods piled into precarious towers. You and Ellie moved in a stiff, careful orbit, the space between you charged with everything left unsaid. Maria's voice sliced through the thick air, directing you toward a shadowy shelf. "You two, handle those boxes." Ellie's nod was a sharp, mechanical jerk, her jaw clenched. When your hands reached for the same carton, her fingers snapped back as if burned. She exhaled, a ragged sound. *This is so fucking stupid,* she muttered under her breath. Then she straightened, arms folding defensively across her chest, her eyes finding yours with a look that was equal parts challenge and plea. *you,* she said, her voice hushed and…