#tlou Tommy

[bumblepony]

Reminder!

This is the blog for Tommy/Maria Week 2025! Taking place February 22nd-28th, 2025. This week is for more than just writers; artists can also join in. The more, the merrier.

The prompts are as follows.

Feb 22nd: Firsts/Small gestures

Feb 23rd: Freak Weather (Snowstorm, Heatwave, Heavy mist)

Feb 24th: AU (Maria in Boston, Kevin Lives, No Outbreak)

Feb 25th: Injury/Sick day

Feb 26th: Misunderstanding/Conflict

Feb 27th: Guilt/Apology

Feb 28th: Decisions/Teamwork

I really hope everyone has fun with this. I love Tommy/Maria and am so excited to have more stories and art for these two. If you share your work here on Tumblr, please link @tommymariaweek25 or tag tommy maria week 2025, and I will share it here. I am also working on making a collection on A03, and as soon as I have that setup, I will put the information here and on my main blog @bumblepony.

Thanks again. I will be posting here with any updates I have, and I can't wait to see you all at the end of February.

The title banner of this blog, the picture for the PFP, and the banner for Tommy/Maria Week were created by the fantastic @kenobiwanx.

[pymsanz]

The Last of Us Season 2 | The Last of Us Day Official Teaser

[whxtedreams]

In pain and heartache. In comfort and love.

A Jackson!Joel x f!reader oneshot

Summary: They were so desperate to hold each other after tasting life without one another.

Word Count: 2.5k

Tags: Jackson!joel, mentions of ellie and her AMAZING puns, Tommy providing comfort, pain, heartache, fear, anxiety, love, apologies, kissing, desperation. reader has she/her pronouns as i write in third person POV, reader has hair Joel can play with, reader has no other descriptions- photos for aesthetic purpose only.

Main masterlist

With pain and heartache, she watched him live without her. 

Her eyes watched every move he made. Every step he took. Every smile he blessed those around him with.

It was an aching reminder of what could have been. The weight of their unresolved past seemed only visible to her. Every breath she took a battle in the heaviness in her chest.

She longed to reach out, to bridge that gap between them she did not realize had begun to form until it was too late.

But the fear of making what little they had left worse held her back. So, she stood in silent agony, her heart breaking as she watched Joel from across the bar.

Tommy had found his way to her, a smile of sympathy and drink in hand. His eyes filled with sadness and understanding, a silent acknowledgment to the suffering.

He knew, after all. Knew how prone his brother was at breaking those he cared for. Tommy had been broken too. 

He held the drink out to her. “Thought you could use this,” he said softly. His voice was gentle like a comforting embrace. 

Her eyes slowly pulled away from Joel as she accepted the drink. She watched the liquid within swirl around in the glass and she found herself hypnotized by its movement. The memory of Joel's drunken state when he pushed her away resurfaced, leaving a bitter taste in her mouth. The sight of the drink in her hand now felt like a cruel reminder of his harsh rejection.

“He’ll come around, always does,” Tommy said, his hand gently placed on her shoulder.

The words were meant to comfort her, but they felt hollow and insincere. She knew the truth, deep down. This time it felt different, a finality to Joel’s actions.

His absence stung, like an open wound that wouldn’t heal. She forced a small nod, struggling to feign optimism. "He said he could never love me." she said, her voice barely a whisper.

Tommy sighed. His hand fell from her shoulder. He cast a glance at Joel, then back at her, conflict and concern etched across his face.

Her eyes trailed back to Joel, drawn by Tommy's gaze. There he was, laughing heartily at Ellie, her pun book in hand as she hunched over in laughter.

The sight of him happy and carefree, the sound of his laughter filling the air, made her heart ache. She tried to hold back the pain, to maintain her composure, but she couldn’t help but yearn for the past.

"He's scared of losing you," Tommy said.

The words hung heavy in the air, echoing the silent weight that rested on her shoulders. She knew he was right, that fear had been a driving force behind Joel's actions. But it didn't make it any easier to bear the hurt and disappointment his fear had caused. She nodded silently, her gaze fixed on Joel and Ellie, their joyful exchange a bittersweet contrast to her own internal turmoil.

Her eyes left Joel and locked onto Tommy's. "If he's so scared of losing me, then why did he push me away?" she asked, her voice quivered as tears threatened to escape her eyes. The desperation and confusion in her voice hung in the air, seeking an answer that she knew might never come.

Tommy's expression softened as he looked at her, compassion in his eyes.

 "He's lost a lot, I suppose he'd rather push you away on his terms than let fate do it for him.”

The pain of Joel’s past losses echoed through her mind. She knew the weight of his pain had shaped him, had forced him to build walls around himself. He'd rather sever ties than risk the hurt of losing someone he let himself love, even if it meant losing them in the process.

Her eyes slowly returned to Joel and as their gazes locked, she saw the intensity in his eyes. It was clear he had been watching her, their gazes drawn to each other like magnets. There was something different in his eyes, a vulnerability that hadn’t been there before. She held his gaze for a moment, questioning the thoughts and emotions that flickered across his face.

Did he regret it? she thought, her mind filled with uncertainty. Did he miss her like she missed him?

Did he still lie in bed, reaching for her in the early hours of the morning? Like he had on those nights under the stars during their journey to Jackson.

Did he still clench his fists by his side or fidget with the watch on his wrist when he didn't know what to say? Did he miss her taking his hand in hers to distract him?

Did he wish that he loved her?

Or did he regret it all?

"It might not seem like it anymore, but he cares for you," Tommy said, his voice steady and reassuring. "I saw it when he carried you in, see it now." She turned to him, searching his face for any sign of deception, but there was none.

Only honesty and concern reflected on her.

Her gaze returned to Joel, drawn by his movement as he stood from the table.

His eyes were on her, only her.

“I can’t do this,” she murmured, her voice tinged with frustration as she handed the glass back to Tommy. Ignoring his call for her, she turned and walked out of the bar, desperately needing some fresh air and space to collect her thoughts.

The night air hit her as she stepped outside, cold and crisp, and it provided a respite from the oppressive atmosphere inside. She took a deep breath, attempting to calm her racing heart and tumultuous emotions.

Oh fuck, she thought. She fucking missed him.

And as if her heart seemed to call for him, she heard the door open once more. She turned to see Joel step out, the soft light of the moon bathing them in a silvery glow. It was as if the night itself tried to bring them together.

She looked at him from behind watery eyes, her emotions threatening to overflow. In turn, he watched her with eyes that mirrored her own pain, a reflection of the suffering that had come between them. They stood there under the night sky, silent and yet speaking volumes, each knowing the depth of the other's heartache.

Only difference was, he had caused all of this.

The unfairness of it all, the weight of the isolation and pain he had inflicted upon her, pressed down on her like his own heavy hand. He stood there, the cause of her heartache, while she endured his consequences alone. The anger and anguish in her heart flared, but it couldn't overpower the deep love and longing she still carried within her.

Joel didn't utter a word, and she didn't expect him to. Instead, he closed the space between them, pulling her into a tight embrace. His hand rested on her head, his touch gentle and comforting as he cradled her against his chest. His nose to her hair. Her hands trembled as they clutched onto the fabric of his jacket, holding him tightly, as if she was afraid he might disappear.

He pulled back slightly and lifted her face gently. His fingers traced her cheek as if his touch would break her. Their gaze met, and she saw the well of pain reflected in his eyes. "I'm sorry," he murmured, his voice a hushed whisper that hung in the night like a fragile thread.

From anyone else, the apology may have felt hollow, meaningless. But from Joel's lips, it held a weight and significance that she understood. For an apology from him was rare and precious, like discovering clean, fresh water in the middle of a vast wasteland. The impact of his words, simple as they were, struck a chord deep within her heart. She could feel the significance of each syllable, was a lifeline in her sea of despair. A flicker of hope in the darkness that had enveloped her heart.

"I should never have told you to leave." He spoke again, his voice choked with emotion, his eyes never left hers.

The words hung heavily in the air, a confession of regret that cut deep. A single tear slipped down his face, a testament to the depth of his remorse. It was a crack in the stoic facade he often wore, a glimpse into the depths of his own hurt and guilt.

She had never seen him cry.

The tear, a crystalline droplet that glistened on his cheek.

"Why did you push me away, then? As if I never meant anything to you," she said, her heart shattered by his own hands.

Joel shut his eyes, his forehead rested against hers, his breath warm on her face. His other hand clenched tightly at the fabric of her waist, while the one holding her face remained gentle and tender, a stark contrast to his tense grip.

His voice trembled as he spoke, each word laden with truth. "I'm so scared I'll let you in, only for you to die on me," he confessed. "I can't lose you too."

His fingers trembled against her skin. She reached up and gently took his hand in hers, bringing it to rest over her heart. It beat a steady rhythm under his palm, a silent reassurance that she was there, alive and breathing.

“You are losing me Joel.”

Joel opened his eyes, so full of pain as he took in her words.

“I’m sorry.” His apology was a mere whisper against her lips. And then, a breathless moment.

His lips delicately touched hers, a whisper-soft kiss filled with tenderness and vulnerability, as fragile as a butterfly's wing. It was as if he were afraid to press too hard, to cause her any more harm than he already had.

As quick as it began, it was over. He pulled away, placing a gentle kiss on her forehead before he tucked her head back into his chest. His fingers played with her hair as he looked up at the starry night sky and she could feel his body relaxing as he held her close.

"If the Lord gave me another chance, I would go back and make things right," he said as his heartbeat quickened beneath her ear. Her hand found its way to his chest as it laid over his heart soothingly, if only to calm the anxiety that had taken root within him.

"All I do is miss you. I can’t sleep, can’t eat. I was so stupid to push you away," he confessed, his chest shuddered with a soft sob. She pulled back slightly, only to witness a torrent of tears streaming down his face. The single tear had multiplied as it turned to a river of sorrow that spoke louder than any words could.

She gently wiped the tears from his face as her own fell silently in tandem.

His bottom lip trembled, and without a second thought, she did what came naturally to her. Her lips found his in a tender kiss and she could feel the tension in him slowly melt away as he released a shuddering breath.

His hand tangled in her hair and he pulled her closer as he deepened the kiss. He poured months of pent-up emotions into the kiss, a mix of regret, yearning, and a love so powerful it threatened to consume them both. Teeth scrapped against teeth, a primal collision of passion and desperation. It was a moment of intense connection, a release of the feelings that had been locked away for far too long.

Her back shoved against the hard surface of the wall. His hands roamed over her body in a desperate attempt to re-familiarize himself with every contour, every dip and curve. It was as if he was trying to memorize her all over again, as if he were afraid she would disappear from his grasp once more.

The pain she had carried with her began to fade away under the onslaught of his lips against hers, his touch hungry and urgent. Her hands clutched at his shirt, fingers clenching the fabric tightly as if she was afraid to let go. Afraid that if she did, he too would slip through her grasp once more.

Their mouths explored each other fiercely, the taste, the feel, the essence of each other an intoxicating drug that they had been deprived of for too long.

So desperate to hold each other after tasting life without one another.

The sound of the bar doors opening shattered the intimate bubble that had enveloped them. Noise spilled into the night air from inside as they hastily tore themselves away from each other. Their gazes locked with Tommy's as he stood frozen in the doorway, surprise etched across his face.

Tommy's eyes flicked down to where Joel's thigh had found its way between hers. "Jesus Christ, can you two make up somewhere else?" he teased, a smirk playing on his lips.

Joel's breath was ragged, his chest rising and falling rapidly as he chuckled, out of breath. His calloused hands held her face tenderly; the rough pads of his thumbs caressed her cheeks. He looked down at her with tenderness and amusement, a hint of a smile tugged at the corners of his lips as Tommy mumbled under his breath as he walked back inside.

“What do you say, come home?” he asked. A hint of hopefulness in his voice, tempered by the fear that shone in his eyes.

“Do you love me?” She asked.

“I want to try.” He said without a beat.

“I think I can live with that.”

The night was quiet, the silence only broken by the soft whisper of the wind as it blew in through the open window. The room was illuminated by the soft glow of the stars outside, their light danced through the gaps in the curtain that fluttered in the breeze.

Joel's face was buried in the crook of her neck, his body wrapped tightly around hers. He inhaled deeply; his breath warm against her neck. His arms encircled her, his grip firm yet gentle, as if he were afraid to let go. He was seeking comfort in her presence, finding solace in her warmth and familiarity.

She was too afraid to sleep. Worried that when she woke, he would be gone once more.

As the first light of day crept through the window, her eyes slowly opened and she expected to find an empty space beside her. However, his grip on her remained firm as he pulled her closer into his chest. His arms wrapped around her as he slept peacefully, forever reaching for her. A wave of relief washed over her, and a small smile tugged at the corners of her lips.

She made a silent vow to herself as she felt the steady rise and fall of his chest against her back. No matter how far he tried to push her away, no matter how much pain spilled from him and to her, she would never let go of him again. She would fight, crawl, and struggle with every ounce of her being to get back to him.

With comfort and love, she watched him sleep by her. 

Notes

this was meant to be around 0.5k but it just kept going??? also Flora writes about kissing as someone who’s never been kissed so as always, take it with a grain of salt as i have no idea what i’m talking about lol - should honestly be a warning itself had a yucky day so here's some hurt & comfort also the starting line and ending line match and im proud of that lol.

[millsheat]

i can't believe we are still having this conversation after four years but no -- ellie was not living some kind of idyllic life at the farm. you get the glimpse of it just by looking at her -- ellie can't sleep, she can't eat, she cannot focus. one look into her diary and you see that ellie is dealing with ptsd, survivor's guilt, the list goes on.

she does not talk to dina -- about anything related to this, or joel, or jesse. she avoids what'd happened, regularly deals with traumatic flashbacks and struggles with insomnia. she is portraying, loudly and clearly, signs of someone who is, still, trapped in the pain and trauma that she had endured.

second of all, dina was not happy either. even though, you, as a player, are led to believe that at first, once tommy shows up, you realize that neither dina has dealt with what went down in seattle. but she does not talk about it, she follows ellie's lead because she knows there is no point in forcing her to speak.

moreover, she sees the state ellie is in. and, perhaps, she is trying to fool herself that she will get better -- of course she does not want to admit the worst, despite the feeling in her gut. she is trying to hold her shit together because she sees ellie falling apart.

however much they both wanted to get some peace, it just does not work like that. you cannot hope that the trauma and pain you went through would simply vanish.

ellie was severely depressed. and no, tommy is not a bad guy who forced her to go hunt down abby. ellie would have gone after abby, but she did not have the guts to do it on her own. she needed the push.

i strongly believe, if she was not forced to confront this reality and leave to end the cycle, she would have taken her own life. as dramatical as it might sounds to someone, she would have. one look into her diary on the farm tells you enough of what ellie's view of life had been at that point.

[missmarveledsblog]

What's missing ? ( Tommy Miller x Reader ) 18+

Summary : life in jackson is good , it's stable and it a slice of normal in a world that fell apart , when joel find a ghost on patrol tommy is left feeling things hit him hard and guilt for a mistake he was sure he caused.

warnings : mutual pinning , blaming , idiots in love , soft sensual spicy times , not proof read ( don't come at me )

In this world everything is almost treasured in a way , from losing everything and building either you or someone else up it.  Even just living day by day was something to be treasured  although it also could make you look back on all the friends and loved ones lost throughout the years , alot of people going to through similar traumatising stories . parent mourning the life their kids could of had if there was no such thing  that why the world needed more places like jackson . life was somewhat normal , not completely but it was close as close could be . tommy miller was never more grateful for it and for once his life was picking up after coming here and now  his brother and niece of sorts was here too  ( from what he could gather at least) .  Walking around town ready to help out  in anyway , maybe check on the elder relatives while he was out , slightly kicking himself for not going on patrol with joel and the others but maybe another time ,  he felt his life was complete and incomplete all in one , like something was missing and maybe it was not that he could complain he had warm bed , food in his belly and he was able to walk freely around town like the world didn’t go to shit . iit was more freeing than the QZ too so least there was that . Now when Tommy Miller woke up that morning he never thought that he would ever experience a change, not one like this anyway . 

The night air  almost crisp as the snow began falling  and everyone was ready to head back to town, maybe catch a drink or simple head home and get warm . the night cool and quiet  which wasn’t usual sometime they could go days or weeks before seeing anything . spirits starting to raise giving the fact of  getting back inside the walls of jackson that was for sure , joel himself was a little happier not that it showed but he was , he was also hoping to see if anyone in town could make clove hell he’d even wear mitten even if they were impractical. Then it moved snapping him from his thought to see a figure moving through the grass trying to crouch be unseen  under the cover of night , holding his hand up the patrol thing stop following to wear he was pointing and with a nod they went . 

“ STOP RIGHT THERE” His voice full of command and authority to that figure it was not convincing enough when the moved quicker away least it was good to see it wasn’t an infected but could be a raider or one of the scouts .  the younger of the group took chase and he’d give em it they could room  but  they were faster  diving to the ground . now in sometimes in his life he wondered if he would snap  and all sense of reality would be lost in things he had to do over the year and this felt like it was that moment when he heard that voice, 

“ Get off of me asswipes “ it couldn’t be  not after all this time , they were told she was dead left with the rest of the infected and burned  “ look i’m not going near you guys  so leave me be and i’ll be gone “ her voice more strained as joel tired aching bone got a new lease of life as he ran towards only for her to hit one of the men and push the other  and then hit the ground with a thump no long after . pushing his men out the way and turning her around it was her , no doubt about it. Right there in the flesh even through a muddy face and bit older was y/n . 

The slice of a life , one more popular with the people of jackson was the tipsy bison . a place they could pretend like it was the old way of life old folk regaling their tales  , young people socialising and well getting to be their age for once. Music playing softly although lost in the background , this was one of his favourite parts of the week people getting to be people . chatting away with everyone when he got a chance listening to their idea’s for town , place they thought would help or even something for the kids  he would sit and listen  add it to a list of possible thing in the future or even flirty back and forths where not uncommon  and sometimes he would go home with one and yet something in his gut felt off , something just didn’t feel right and when ellie came bursting through the door panting  he was just waiting for something bad . 

“ joel needs you in the clinic “ she panted  holding her chest to gather her breathe knowing she was about to start running again . 

“ whats wrong he hurt ?” he asked. 

“ look he told me not to say but he’s fine just come on “ she pulled him barely giving him a chance to put his coat on or open the door fully as the two ran through the light fresh blanket of snow that was forming on the ground.  Seeing tim walk by holding his  nose wondering what hell happened out there. 

“ don’t worry about him “ was all ellie said pulling him to move faster.   “ finally “ she sighed seeing the light of the clinic as the two entered . 

The place was quiet  one or two lights that  remained on  then he saw joel  lost in his own space to even see them coming like he was trying to make sense of it all. 

“ joel what hell is going on “ he called . 

“ it’s y/n she’s erm she alive “ it was like a question almost coming out of his mouth , like he still couldn’t fully believe his own words . 

“ ok thats a bad fucking joke joel “ tommy scoffed  just as the door opened. 

“ i need you to rest for a bit just til you get yourself built back up understand me missy “  tommy was frozen to the floor looking straight at her. 

“ loud and clear doc “ she saluted just as she turned seeing his  eyes widening . 

“ this … no ,,, you “ was all he could get out of his mouth . 

“ shit if that how we shut him up we should of got her long time ago “ ellie  whispered. 

“ i’m alive and didn’t die but i had to leave or i was dead” she finally said softly only to sweep her off the ground and pull her tight into his arms . 

“ i can’t believe your here “ voice muffled but she could hear it . 

“ wow you millers really make a girl feel special first joel punches a guy and now this “ she laughed weakly as he put her down . 

“ why you punch tim “ tommy head tilt . 

“ cause he knocked her out “ joel shrugged. 

“ come on  you can stay in mine til we sort out a place for you to stay , ellie could you got get  jeff and get her some clothes and joel get some soup and bread from the mess hall “ tommy asked . 

“ can i get that cool t shirt ? “ ellie batted her lashes . 

“ yes now go “ he chuckled as they walked out  all heading in different ways , her eye big  looking around completely in awe at the town around her . 

Sitting on sofa he could hear the water running and  muffled hum of her voice and yet he still couldn’t believe it all .  they met her back when  it was all fresh , in a new QZ and there she was all alone. Soon it didn’t take her long to be friends with Tommy although she was still a lot younger than him , still closer in age she was only going to start college  and then it all happened .  at first didn’t pay her any attention. His grief was still fresh and not many could get through to the man but over time she was able to worm herself  in and soon had him chatting and talking .  like the trio were never apart and when they were it wasn’t for long til one day she never show up  then it was longer and longer when they asked were she was word spread she was infected and exterminated opening old wounds and new losses  it was devastating for them both even in a shit show she was like a ball of sunshine filled with sass and fire .  he was never truly over her loss, would often think about her when he lay in his bed and night would think of how much she would of loved jackson ,  she used to talk about place just like it where people could grow and actually live than the shit they had to live in the QZ . 

“ I feel like 20 pound lighter “ she laugh snapping him out of his train of thought  ten year later and she wasn’t hardened by the world or whatever she had to do to survive her features  still soft and a sweetness to them . 

“ i’ll warm that soup up for you , you sit here close to the fire so you don’t catch cold or something “ he stood leading her over , throwing the tattered blanket over her . 

“ thanks for the clothes by the way “ she smiled . 

“ yeah i’ll get more tomorrow .. ones that fit better” he chuckled.

“ hey they’re clean and warm i aint complaining “ she sighed softly  embracing the warmth of the fire and fact she wasn’t still out in the cold  then the smell of the soup have her stomach growling and grumbling been awhile since she ate something that smelt so good or even out of a bowl or off a plate . she didn’t even care how she look eating   or better word scarfing the food down ,  

“ shit this is so good “ mouth filled with bread til she could see him smiling widely . 

“ let me get something for you to wipe your face “ he chuckled heading out and back . 

“ thanks “ she wince cheeks heating as she wiped her face. “ so what the deal here?” 

“ well it not like before we don’t do the ration cards or anything like that everyone pulls their weight and we share things evenly , we’ll get you a job once you on the mend doc told you take it easy so it what your gonna do til then  think of it as temporary job”.

 “ so you and joel make this place ?” she asked . 

“ not exactly to be honest things sort of fell apart between us “ he smiled sadly sitting explaining everything that had happened over the last decade or more in turn she told him of why she left how she caught something going on  so she was thrown out and left to fend for herself and first she was sure she was going to end up dead but then she would hang out with groups some nice and some not so nice but she was always able to get away so she kept doing that either sticking to herself finding what she could to survive or sticking with a group but never for too long . a brief and short mention of bad times when she saw the big walls of Jackson she thought it was a QZ  so when she was crouching and hiding it was not to get caught it was to get away . never in her wildest dreams did she think she would see them again even though she hoped they would cross path one way but then that hope slowly started fading and it was more trying to make it day to day. A sense of guilt swelling in his gut knowing why she was there and how what happened after was because of him  , all for his own selfish needs that took her from them ,  trying not to bring it down he talked about ellie and joel filling her in on the dynamic but  Then while he was telling her about Jackson he felt a weight on his shoulder only to look down and see her eyes closed and even breaths fall from her part lips ,  he couldn’t pull his eyes away , of course he always thought she was pretty but was she always this beautiful . With a shake of his head he slowly moved, lifting her up and hushing her back to sleep when she began to stir slowly, bringing her up  the stair carrying her like the most fragile thing in the world  and placing her in the guest room bed  . a little chuckle when she nuzzled and tangled herself in the blanket one last look and he headed to his own room .

The morning sun beamed into the room and right in her face , shooting up out of the bed . took her a minute to  take in a strange environment or to remember where she was for a second . rubbing her eyes she could hear the voice just out the door muffled standing she opened it only to see the miller brothers and ellie standing . 

“ ellie wanted to wake you up so you can come mess hall with us “ joel rolled his eyes . 

“ tommy wanted to go in too “the girl scoffed . 

“ i was just checking on you is all “ tommy shrugged. 

“ we brought you new books and coat come on kiddo” joel called . 

“ joel can’t call me that i ain't a kid anymore i never was “ she called back .  “ good too see he’s still an asshole “ she yawned out . 

“ i heard that “ he yelled back . 

“ good to know you still got your hearing old man “ . 

“ i like her” ellie snorted. 

“ i like ya too kid “ she ruffled her hair heading down the stair to see joel sitting and waiting for them . 

She felt slightly nervous walking through town people eyes on her and whispering wondering who she was or saying she was old friend of the brothers , one thing that didn’t go with the world was gossip and it was spreading like wildfire . although people did great them , tried talking or phishing information til joel would scowl and tell them bluntly they were hungry ,

It was even worse when she got to the mess hall   a complete silence when they walked in  , the previous chatter cut to a pin drop being heard . 

“ Yes, she's a new person get over it “ ellie rolled her eyes . “ nosey fuckers” she muttered followed by joel telling her to “ watch yer mouth for fucksake. 

Slowly and surely over weeks  and months the novelty of being a new face  was dwindling  and  learning the new way of life wasn’t as hard as it was at first .  integrating with the rest of town like she’d always there  ,  like she was an angel in joel life making gloves or makeshift ones with leftover fabric he gave her soon others where looking for other things or clothes to mended . a skill she learned when she was younger before it all happened her mother always said it was a skill that would come in handy not thinking it would be like this  but she sort of grateful she did learn .  The temporary stay was also prolonged. The guest room was just her room , her space .  Something else was different between,  spending more and more time together there was a shift in the dynamic , shift in feeling from friends to something else.  Neither saying a word in fear or making things weird or ruining a friendship rebuilding but not denying the strong want for more . It didn't take long for anyone to notice the stolen glances , the flirty tension and lingering touches and yet the two kept it just like that, afraid to move . everyday coming home it was domestic in its own sort of way two sitting in the living room not always talking even the comfortable silence was just as good  and wherever one was the other was soon to follow not long after . 

The sun high in the sky and now spring air wrapping around them  two miller brothers stood watching ellie and y/n playing with the kids in town making fun little games that made no sense but it had them excited either way while the grateful parent where setting up the little feast not to far away . a makeshift feast and fair to bring in the new harvest  and new warmer months coming . tommy eyes locked and stuck on y/n like they were glued there . 

“ ya droolin” joel smirked . “ right here “ he pointed to his own chin making his brother scowl and glare. 

“ i ain’t drooling” he muttered yet turning his head just to make sure only fueling his brothers teasing and  goading . 

“ better do something about it little brother pretty little thing like er ain’t gonna stay single long .. pretty sure heard some of the guys wondering who be lucky one get er “ he mused knowing what he was doing , he knew his brother ,  knew that light that came back into his eyes almost moment his eyes landed on her  what he didn’t understand was the hesitation or standing back from what he wanted . 

“  a beautiful woman could do better with someone her own age “ tommy shrugged but his clenched fist say another story . 

“  age aint nothing your both adults so don’t give me that crap , what the real reason “ 

“ i’m why she was  ran off is why you happy “ he snapped walking off . 

“ what che mean your why she ran off ? .. shit stop running knee ain't what it was shithead” he grumbled. 

“ i wanted to spend time with some woman  and asked her to do my delivery , it’s my fault she went there in first place and  my felt she was gone “ he felt the weight of his guilt over the years coming to the surface the real truth in why he couldn’t do it , why he couldn’t be hers when he was reason he made her life so much harder. 

“ did you know that it would happen” her voice rang in his ears  eyes closed he shook his head. 

“ well then how is it your fault tommy , your weren’t to know what would happen it was a favor i took not like it was some trap for me alone” . 

“ she right need to stop blaming yourself “ joel patted his back .  “ I'll leave you to it”  . 

“ Hey look at me “ she called firm but still gentle, no anger he felt he deserved . “ when you got beat up because I asked you to  get me something, did you blame me for it ?” she asked . 

“ no would i  , i’m glad i went what if it was you on your own …” he  rambled.  “ this is different, you were hurt and couldn’t move , i just wanted to sleep with a woman whose  name i didn’t even remember after it “ . 

“ i could of said no but i didn’t listen no what if or this and that would of made a difference now but that wasn’t and will never be your fault tommy  so get that into the head of yours and if you don’t well i’ll just have to make ellie come wake you up every morning til you agree too “ she mused finally  getting a laugh out of him. 

 “ I am sorry though “ he finally looked at her . 

“ you don’t have anything to be sorry for tommy  just time in life neither of us could see coming “ she smiled  hand caressing his face  , need to comfort him to get and see the truth of her words . 

He melted  in his spot leaning into the soft touch of her palm on his cheek , she felt his gaze and all the emotions  lay bare in front of her like opening his soul and handing it to her because it was hers to have,  he was hers  ,  first he was her friend but after all these years of mourning her memory to practice side by side once more she was always his just this time was different . this strong pull  towards her , the way he felt like he could breathe once she came back from patrol , the smile on his face watching her instantly get the people of jackson’s loves but she always had his . what he felt was missing all his time since that fateful day was right in front on his with a sweet yet strong , fierce and beautiful presence .  his own hands came to her cheeks , his calloused, blood filled hand  that held her there almost savouring the moment , burning it to memory.  He didn’t realise how it happened or who it was but in seconds the two were close as close could be her nose brush against his , eyes closed at the simple yet pure affection in the touch then he felt her lips on his own , instantly , like his body cursed  him for not giving in sooner , pulling her close chest to chest the hand that was on his chest bunching the fabric of his shirt in aims to pull him closer . lips parting to give herself to the man she held in her heart for  decade or more.   Everything that kept inside for so long coursing through one kiss . clearing of throat made her jump back only for tommy to pull her back to his chest  as he looked up to see ellie and joel  shit eating grins on their faces. 

“About time fucking hell   and the old man said you were ladies man “ ellie  teased . 

“ i glad you aint dumb as you use ta be .. sorry to interrupt but everything ready and eager to start” he called dragging ellie only for ellie to do the same with y/n and in turn she grabbed tommy’s only for the people of jackson to see the big goofy grin on the millers face . the whole night he was at her side like he was afraid to ever let her go  again . pulling her to dance  and yet the music wasn’t his favourite sound , It was the giggle and laughs that fell from her lips  , 

The night progressed from little loving touches to more intimate , from small kisses to more sensual one that made him smile into her neck when her breathe would hitch .  teasing and torturous when she would shook a glare his way  more playful than malice  til it go to much and she told them she was heading home , a coy smile on her lips as she past him ,   not a word spoken a quick wave to his brother and he was following  her back to the house , their house , maybe over time it that room would be the guest room once more but now that thought could wait when he stalked behind closer and closer before she was whipped around her laugh echoing through the town as he threw her over his shoulders almost running  home . 

“ nice ass miller” she teased only the sting on her own making yelp mixed with a moan spill from her lips . 

 “ could say the same like a peach, say it sweet as one too “  he voice lower and his hands rubbing over the clothed globe of her ass .  “ I know i’ll see every part of you is sweet baby “ he added making her lift herself on his shoulder shifting til she was in his arms and then he could the lust blown pupil , eyes matching his own  as they were devouring each other there and then. Unlike the soft and sweet kisses that were shared this was pure fire and passion  , clash of tongue and teeth , her moans swallowed whole and she could feel the ache growing and burning throughout her  entire body.  Finally they got to the house , her lips kissing and nipping the skin of his throat . once easy task seemed to be mission impossible and whine of her patience wearing thing . 

“ thank fuck , hows man suppose concentrate with you doing that” he rasped another slap to her ass making her bite him harder muffling the whimper coming from her mind. Pinching her chin in between his fingers taking in her lust filled expression and the kiss bitten lips fuck he wanted to take a picture  a plaster it all over the house. Surprised with himself as he made it to the room not sure how he managed not taking her there and then  entrance of their home … their home like it only made the man burn brighter .   clothes flung various parts of the room not long forgotten as they were bare before each other taking each others naked form in. her hands trailing over ever scar already knowing the stories behind them one  for various stages of his life , one from when joel accidently pushed him out a tree  or when he intentionally threw a screw driver during a construction job . to the scars he collected when the world came to an end .his  world only started realistically having her  feel the same was his beginning . a need and hunger to show her what she meant to him , from even touch to ever kiss on her bare skin . each a wordless promise to never leave her  , never let harm as long as he was here now .  the whines and whimper spilling from her mouth  hitting his ears like an angel singing . 

“ such a pretty little pussy “ he groaned fingers teasing through her body , playing with her like his personal instrument to his own tune .  then he  got the taste  , her  nectar hitting his tongue and he swore he died and went to heaven , how she dance on his taste bud feeling the newfound addiction . one taste and hook  , the feeling on her hand in his hair , the way she cried out his name  and ready to spend the rest of his days just right here and now.  Tongue trailing from her weeping hole to her puffy clit , hip bucking , the delicious burn on his scalp , how responsive she was , when he pumped his finger and how she clenched and cried out  he almost came all over the sheets from the sight alone and feeling of it all , never was a feeling such as this when a woman was in his bed or presence body and soul was her no matter what was to come .  

lifting himself up usually this part was a rough and rush if  it was anyone else but this was y/n , his girl , his woman and his heart. Kissing her softly lining himself to  the gate of heaven that lay between her legs and pushed in slowly both moaning loudly feeling coming together. holding kissing her any part he could  til he felt her move and wiggle body begging for more . slow , deliberate strokes that had her back arching off the bed and his name falling from her lips like a pray . 

“ fuck baby girl so perfect … fuck tight like she was made for me huh , made for my cock alone “ he grunts lifting himself up hitching her thigh on his hip hitting spot in her body she never knew existed as she rose with him  hips bucking , both in sync of the rhythm  of a dance through fire that just burned hot and brighter . 

“ my girl , my love” he moaned nose brushing her cheek before his lips descended upon hers.  He could fell it the fast approaching orgasm  but it hit like a freight train  as she clung and cried holding his own movement bucking faster , feeling of her milking him for all he was worth as his own release hit spilling deep inside a big no in previous time but he couldn’t bring himself to care , he would deal with consequence if it came to it .  

panting , sweaty and so filled with love at the gaze at each other  taking each other in . 

“ my love “ she also whispered and like earlier her hand as he leaned once more into the touch kissing the palm of her hand .  

“ my love “ he repeated mirroring her action and kissing her softly so softly  and so filled with adoration and awe before he pulled her down . her head on his chest wasn’t long til the pleasure filled exhaustion took over and her eyes closed . he knew he need to take care of her , clean the mess of the bed and everything else but that could wait for a beat and another moment he seared into his memory , one of memory  . the ghost of his past was now the path to his future.

[mdawgswizzleinthehizzle]

joel moments that i’m not ready to see pedro perform

[joelscoffeee]

all of the last of us characters:

[rorithinking]

Maria : You say “Please” and “Thank you” in front of Ellie all the time, and she never repeats it Maria : But you call Tommy “Ass-faced motherfucker” ONE TIME…

[itsokbabygirl]

Ellie: Thanks dad.

Ellie: Why is everyone staring at me?

Maria: You just called Joel "dad." You said "thanks dad."

Ellie: What? No I didn't. I said "thanks man."

Joel: Do you see me as a father figure Ellie?

Ellie: No, if anything I see you as a bother figure, because you're always bothering me.

Tommy: Hey, show your father some respect!

[wicked--loving--lies]

Tommy Miller

[d4rm4nd4]

Tommy’s what we used to call a “joiner”. Dreams of becomin’ a hero. Wants to save the world...

[saminadorazahi]

Tommy🥹

[pymsanz]

A sneak peek of #TheLastOfUs Season 2

HBO MAX

[whxtedreams]

The Hardest Part is Who We Are - Master List

Summary

Fate had tangled us together, like branches in a flood, with the currents of our mutual emotions and experiences swirling around us

It was you, Dean and Annabel against the dying world. Then it was you and Annabel. Until it was you, Annabel and Tommy. Now it's just you and Tommy. And Joel?

Posted on AO3 and Tumblr

Pairing: Joel x You , Joel x Reader

Current tags:

Violence Canon-Typical // Violence // Blood // Blood and Injury // Hurt/Comfort // Mentions of Past Loss // Loss // Grief/Mourning // No use of y/n // Female Reader // Gunshot Wounds // Eventual Romance // Eventual Smut // Slow Burn // Additional Warnings In Chapter Summary // Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - PTSD // Rage / /Depression // No Beta // Religious Cults // Cults // Joel falls first // Age Difference // Reader is 36 // bisexual reader // Implied/Refrenced Suicide Attempt // Sharing a Bed // Grinding // Dirty Talk // Smut // thigh riding // Torture // Near Death Experiences // past abuse //

Master List - Ongoing Series

Current Word Count: 118k

** for smut

Chapter 1 - Sunshine // 8k

Chapter 2 - Die For Him // 12.4k

Chapter 3 - Unstable // 8k

Chapter 4 - Blood Upon The Snow // 12.5k

Chapter 5 - Beanies and Hunting... Cults? // 6.1k

Chapter 6 - Sting Like A Bee, Sweet as Honey // 8.6k

Chapter 7 - The Cabin // 7.7k

Chapter 8 - Please Don't Leave Me // 10.5k

Chapter 9 - The Miller Brothers // 7.6k

Chapter 10 - I Would Wait For Him // 11.8k

Chapter 11 - Heavenly, Sinful ** // 5.2k

Chapter 12 - He Would Wait For You // 10k

Chapter 13 - Sweet Dreams // 5k

Chapter 14 - Sunflowers, Sunflowers, Sunflowers // 4.2k

Chapter 15 - Coming soon

Other Links

Your House

The Jackson Cabin

[soulofapatrick]

Instant Attraction - Tommy Miller x reader

Summary: Upon meeting Tommy with Joel and Ellie you find the pair of you have immediate attraction for each other

Words: 1.7k

Warnings: none 

Notes: Part one of the Instant Attraction series

Y/N’s POV

“What!” Ellie snaps at the girl who’s been watching us from afar, she’s been hiding behind one of the support beams with her. Tommy, Maria and Joel all turn to where the girl is now running off, Ellie having scared her. 

“What’s wrong with you?” Joel elbows Ellie lightly, his southern heart probably so embarrassed my Ellie’s wild behaviour and I try to stifle a laugh at the embarrassment in his voice as this is a very different side of Joel. 

“What about her manners?” Ellie looks at Joel then me. 

“She’s just curious,” Maria speaks up, “Kids around here don’t usually look or talk like you.” 

“Right,” Ellie’s voice dripping with sarcasm as she rolls her eyes, “Well, maybe I’ll teach them. I want my gun back.”

“Eleanor!” I use her full name, tone as stern as I can make it at the surprise on Maria’s face while Joel looks mortified and there’s an amused smile playing on Tommy’s lips. I can’t help but feel relaxed despite how tense it feels between Joel and Tommy. Ellie grimaces at the use of her full name and just goes back to stuffing her face, this being the first real meal she’s ever had. 

It’s fucking amazing compared to the beef jerky that Joel keeps on him at all times. It’s like a full Sunday roast, gravy and chicken and all and my mouth was salivating so much at the sight of it being placed in front of me. Ellie and Joel dug into it like they hadn’t eaten in months which is somewhat true and I wanted to do the same but every time Tommy’s intense gaze landed on me I felt myself flush because he’s good looking. 

Ellie picks up on it as she’s wiggling her eyes suggestively which has me kicking her under the table and she lets out a slew of swear words in pain that has Joel fixing me with a stern look like the one I gave Ellie a few minutes ago. I mumble out a sorry before going back to demolishing my meal, a snort coming from Ellie. 

“Thank you ma’am,” I mumble under my breath, mocking Joel’s tone and it has Ellie snorting and Joel’s head turning our way again with a defeated sigh. 

“My apologies about them ma’am,” Joel says to Maria, defeat in his tone, “You know how kids are.” 

“I am 20 thank you.” I speak up and Joel doesn’t even bat an eyelid, keeping his head turned away from me as his whole body gives Maria a see kinda look. 

“Child.” 

“Asshole.” 

“Manners.” 

“I like her, she’s fiery.” Tommy drawls, amusement still playing with the corner of his lips as his eyes flick from Joel to me. I think my heart stops when his dark eyes shift from my own to my lips and then away because I definitely imagine that, proven by the elbow in my side from Ellie. 

“Pain in my ass, is what she is.” Ellie put on her own Joel voice and the man just drops his head when Tommy and Maria actually laugh. The tension in Tommy’s shoulders seems to fade as he throws his head back in an unstrained laugh and I think this is when I really fall for the man. Something tells me not to get my hopes up despite his eyes following my lips every so ofter because of the way Maria seems to stick by his side like glue. 

“Should have left you at Bill’s.” Joel grumbles, grabbing all three of our plates and getting up to follow Maria to do his part in cleaning up. It leaves me and Ellie at the table with Tommy but of course Ellie doesn’t even try and be a wingwoman. Instead she’s jumping up, kicking her chair back and heads in the direction Joel and Maria disappeared off too with a call of “I’m not sitting in that bubble of sexual tension.” 

“Ellie!” I call after her, my face burning at the way Tommy raises an eyebrow at me while I just keep my eyes on Ellie’s retreating figure until she disappears and then my hands seems the most interesting thing around. 

“Sexual tension, huh?” There’s movement and then the chair Ellie was previously  sitting on is moving until a calloused hands reach for mine, stopping me from picking at the skin around my nails, “Hey darlin’, don’t do that, you’ll make yourself bleed.” 

I keep my head down, knowing my face is the colour of a tomato, and I drop one of his hands so I can turn the other hand over so I can lightly trace the lines on his palm. I usually do this with Joel when I’m feeling anxious but this feels different because Tommy’s scooting his chair closer so his hand settles in my lap while I continue to trail my fingers over the lines and the other arm is thrown over the back of my chair so he can lean in closer. 

“You got any family?” Tommy asks, voice quiet as if not to scare me.

“Joel and Ellie are the closest left. I had a younger brother who I lost before Joel and Ellie found me.” I tell him, finally daring to glance up and my breath hitches at how close his face is to mine, our noses almost able to bump and it has my cheeks flaring up again. 

I can’t look away despite how much I would like to. I’m usually loud and boisterous, Joel is always telling me that, but when it comes to guy I like I find myself getting flustered and forgetting how to breathe let alone formulate sentences. It’s what’s happening right now, my eyes are stuck searching Tommy’s face and taking him in. He and Joel look enough alike to be brothers: it’s mainly in the nose and mannerisms. Unlike Joel his skin is sun kissed and his freckles are visible from a distance and he’s sporting a moustache that makes me wonder what it would feel like in a kiss. I find myself acting on autopilot, one of my hands is running through the ends of his naturally slicked back hair as I find myself enthralled with the way it curls, curling strands around my fingers. His eyes are such a deep brown they’re almost black, reminding me of the night sky reflecting on water in the quietest hours of the night. His eyes hold so much passion and optimism I envy his way of seeing the world. 

A clearing of the throat has me snapping my head away from Tommy to find Joel standing there with Ellie and Maria, all three of them watching us. Ellie and Maria have proud looks on their faces while Joel just looks like a father who’s caught his kid sneaking out. It makes me shrink into my seat but Tommy doesn’t even flinch, if anything he acts bolder by moving his arm from behind me to fall onto my shoulders, thumb rubbing soothingly. 

“I want to stay here.” Ellie speaks up and I meet Joel’s eyes, seeing the same shock and hope reflected in them. We had talked about what happens after we hand Ellie over the fireflies and find Tommy but this… we never had a plan for this, “Fireflies were never my family, I’ve never had a family until now.” She turns to Joel because she knows she’s already got me sold. I have always seen Ellie as a daughter figure despite her being only six years older than her. 

“Joel?” I ask quietly as he just stares at Ellie, chest heaving as if he’s having a panic attack. Before I can move Ellie’s wrapped her arms around him and I see the glazed look in his eyes: he’s fighting guilt and want but it seems the want wins because he’s giving in and hugging Ellie back. It makes me relax and I realise I’ve been gripping Tommy’s thigh with nails digging in so I quickly withdraw my hand with an apology but he just squeezes my shoulder, looking at Maria. 

“There’s that house by the strawberry plot they can have. It’s two bedroom though and…” She’s trailing off, eyes flicking between me, Joel, Ellie and then Tommy. 

“I’ve got a spare room in mine,” Tommy answers her unasked question before Joel can open his mouth to say anything. He just gives Tommy a pointed look that Tommy seems to understand by the small nod Tommy sends back. Maria then tells Ellie and Joel to grab their packs and she’ll show the way to the house while Tommy finally takes his hand from mine and also stands. 

I copy and suddenly arms are wrapping around me and Ellie’s mumbling against my shirt, “You better not fucking disappear on us.” I laugh softy, pressing a kiss to there hair and hug her back until Maria’s calling for her. 

I’m being guided back against the door when it closes behind me, Tommy caging me in with arms either side of my head. He doesn’t make any moves other than that, just watching my expression for any signs of discomfort or fear but despite having only knowing this man for less that eight hours I feel completely safe. I feel like I know everything about him from all the stories Joel told me. 

“This is crazy,” He murmurs, testing the waters and closing the gap a little more, “We’ve only just met.” 

“Crazy,” I breathe, a small smile on my lips because yeah, he feels it too. He definitely feels it too when wind-chapped lip land on mine and steal all the air in my lungs. I’m grabbing the collar of his blue fleece jacket and pulling his body flush against mine as I melt into the kiss, body already wanting more. I feel alive for the first time in ages and want whatever Tommy is offering me despite the speed of all this. 

It seems he wants the same with the way his hand tangles in my hair and pulls, drawing a gasp from me before he pulls his body away from me enough to take me in before he’s groaning, “Can’t, I promised Joel I’d behave.” 

“I want this.” 

“So do I,” He whispers, “but I promised Joel we’d be sensible. Let me show you the town and it’s people first, take you on a date first and let you settle in.” 

“But-“ 

“That doesn’t mean I’m going to stop kissing you.” 

“Thank fuck.”

------------

Part One // Part Two // Part Three // Part Four // Part Five

[missmarveledsblog]

Joel's girl ? ( Tommy miller x reader )

summary : when joel shows up in jackson with a teenager and a young woman , tommy finds himself instantly drawn to the woman and yet he start feeling guilty wanting his brothers girl , but he start hating his feeling grow and his brother joel going for women in jackson til he finds out how wrong he is .

warnings: jumping to conclusion , mutual pining , doesn't follow any story line of game or show , mentions of cheating but not really , some violence and fluffy stuff tommy being a cutie .

Maybe it was a trick of the mind , something conjured up over years of guilt and yet in the same time it was real , he was really standing in the safe haven of jackson with two girls at his side  but it was really joel not just a figment of his guilt . There stood his big brother  , his flesh and blood  between hugs and hellos  he finally took in the girl and woman at his brother's side. The girl, Ellie, was  smiling but The woman y/n she was constantly watching like she was on guard , he didn’t blame her hell he was the same when he first arrived .  She stood close making sure she was near both of their trio at all times watching people walking by keeping her arm around the young girl as she rolled her eyes and told the woman to relax . if tommy was to guess well he would of put her mid to late twenties although it was hard to tell given the world falling to shit and no one got to be their ages  , very few place like jackson to do that sort of thing so he could only imagine what they had seen or had to do .   

“ We got place for  you guy just up here can get cleaned up hot water and all to have a shower  , clothes too if you need em “ he explained walking the trio through the town  all looking around.  “ now we can get you jobs later after your settle  even schooling for little miss with other kids her age  .. i take it y’all together” he asked what he meant and what they picked up was different when joel said yeah . what tommy meant was two adult as a couple but they thought like just a group in general .  he was surprised to say the least , she was a pretty even go as far as to say she was beautiful young woman but he was being respectful to whom he thought was his brother's partner. 

It was almost cute the way her eyes lit up walking into the house and supplies that were brought to them ,   he had stop himself from staring  a couple of times even got caught by ellie who just smirked and went on her on adventure throughout the house   and now he was sitting with the two females that came with his brother letting joel shower first so he could catch up with his brother . the tension thick as she sat almost pulling him apart with her eyes . 

“ she doesn’t do well with new people” ellie spoke up noticing the way he tried look anywhere else . 

“ it’s fine really understandable” he nodded. 

“ she’s harmless really .. well sort of .. not really … this seem like nice place though “ ellie mused. 

“ thanks it’s community that makes it that way we all pull our weight and help each other really “ he smiled. 

He watched As She stood placing her bag on table taking  the things out only for him to see a knife it was Beautiful . 

“ hunting Knife ? “ he asked softly yet she tensed. 

“ my daddys i ain't getting rid of it “ she was cold and almost Warning . 

“ i wouldn't  either may i have a look at it , you can hold my pistol” he held out As she hesitantly nodded taking it from his hand. 

“Hey that what joel did to Look At it too “ellie snorted . 

“ yeah its beautiful Huh” joel gruffed out walking in fresh clothes On hid back probably cleanest hes felt in a good while . 

“  stunning piece” tommy eyes went over the blade  before he put it back down and she handed him the pistol back. 

“ ellie go” she said pulling book out Of her bag as the teen gave Her  goodbyes before heading up the stairs . “ this fire ok to light , so she not cold” she finally spoke up a little louder and a little softer .  

“ um yeah some wood out in the hall  there let me help while he’s getting ready” tommy  already Walking To the hall and putting the wood In fire place  as she stood at a distant Before she pulled out a lighter Another heirloom From her father things she made sure her own brother didn't get . 

she sat With  on chair the tattered book in hand looking like a picture perfect when tommy Stood  the light of fire slowly starting to glow Against Her features . 

“ i'm ready .. i might be early i might be late i don't you ok here with ellie “ he asked almost gentle  tommy Noticed almost straight away as she looked up and nodded . 

“ alright i'll see you”  he headed straight to the door . 

“ nice meeting You y/n “ tommy walked Out .

“ yeah you too” she called and yet her head never Looking up from the pages she seemed so lost in . He felt a little tug and he walked out door. 

“ ya Aint changed” was all joel said walking Out shake on his head, smile on his lips .  

She was half way through the book when Ellie emerged bug smile on her face and hair still damp making y/n happier with the fire . 

“ wait til you try that shower” she sighed Happily . 

 “ yeah i aint ever Seen you so relaxed” she chuckled Standing stretching out . “ no opening door when im up there unless it joel” she added.

“ what if its his Brother to come stare at your pretty face more” ellie teased .

“ he aint Staring at me probably thinking I look like a feral rat “ she rolled her eyes walking up the stair though she could hear the young girl laughing . 

“ cutest feral Rat hes ever seen” was all she heard as she Opened The door looking around the bathroom she place her clothes so they wouldn't be wet And turned The water a small smile when she felt it warming up . Stepping in she felt her tired muscle almost melting under The steamy stream. The way the soap Felt on her body and the suds , dirt And grime wash off her body . The way she was able To wash her hair properly was something she took Full advantage of too before she gotten out not Wanting To leave ellie  alone too long  in such a new place . She didn't trust it but She wanted to , she wanted a place she didnt have to worry all time. A place ellie Could be her age something y/n never had  even though her father tried his hardest but he also spent his time teaching them to survive , her and her brother shown same way of life And yet he went cold , heartless and greedy. So easily to get rid of her and luckily It was frank and bill . Her brother wanted weapon few Supplies They gave him It and  but they saw how skinny she was  so well she was part of bargaining tool . then they asked joel to take her knowing  it  was their end . She was with them for Years before she left almost pleading not to go, then crying when she looked into their eyes knowing  it was last time first people to be kind after what felt so long since her father died and then she was traveling with joel and ellie  not wanting to lose anymore She tried Not getting attach then ellie wormed her way in then she went withdrawn to protective.   Her damp hair  towel Dried as she grabbed all their towel or rags hung them up let them dry she would wash the clothes later when Ellie was asleep let the girl rest . 

She walked down the stairs seeing ellie looking through The book she was reading  A tattered up version of little women her mother Used to read to her . 

“ can you read it to me” ellie Asked  almost like she sensed Her coming .

“ course i can “ she smiled softly sitting with the young girl  taking book in her hand and opening the first page one She didn't Need to even Look at to know the next sentence  written on the pages before her. 

Still surreal looking at his brother right in front of him . Yet Still felt Like weird dream watching  him take The Glass from his hand. 

“ still cant believe your here and not alone either when that happen “ tommy took his seat  . 

“ its just well happened their good  kids , annoying but good got own shit i suppose” he shrugged not knowing to even begin to explain never thought any of it would happen and yet it was .  But as much as he wouldn’t  say out loud he did care  about them both , y/n the skeletons In her closet rivaled his own at such a young age too . She was scrapper too watched her take down men  bigger than herself when they tried anything , hell she saved his ass couple of times . 

“  she always like that ?” . 

“ y/n   she guarded more  but once she warms up to ya shes a sweet heart With a heart of gold plus no fuss with work she know how to hunt and shit  but  i will say she great at medical shit , her daddy taught her all her life til he died she was  fourteen Then she spent time with her brother from what i was told he was a cold bastard probably why she can Be dangerous if you cross her or who she cares for “ joel nodded . 

“ she dont look dangerous but it usually Is the quiet ones” tommy shook his head .

 “ yeah i didn't Think so too til one night raiders came she cut one of their throats before they even knew she was in the room  then checked over ellie like Nothing happened  and ellie man she got a mouth on her but she good kid”  he smiled . 

“ ya really doing this huh?” tommy Smiled softly as two drank and caught sharing tales of their time apart all the good , the bad and the ugly and even Reminiscing  the past and those they had lost .  wasn't  Long the bottle was empty and joel was starting to feel the effects of the amber liquid he so dearly missed . 

“ lets get you home to your girls huh? “ tommy chuckled bit steady On his own feet  as the brother wobbled out the door . 

She was out cold on the worn down sofa  book in her lap When  the sound of door open she shot Up grabbing the knife Only to see the two men stumbling in the door trying to  not laugh honestly  like Two tennagers after sneaking out . 

 “ hey we wake you darling” joel chuckled . 

“ you Drunk .. oh my god you Both are “ her eyes Widened. 

“ we are not sweetheart … ok Maybe a little” Tommy cackled as his Brother followed. 

“ ellies just  got to sleep ,  go to bed “ she rolled her eyes as tommy led his brother up the stairs while she grabbed a glass of water following After leaving one on counter . 

She  walked In leaving glass ignoring joel mumbling admiration As she headed Down the stair. Little after she heard the younger miller Coming when she looked up just as he was standing there .

“ glass Of water on counter” she mused as he head straight In . 

“thanks sweetheart i'll be on my way soon “ he smiled sitting beside her almost bashful smile on his face almost instantly scolding himself this was his brothers girl and here he was no short of a  having hearts in his eyes .   he literally only got his brother back he needed to stop  and yet he couldn’t .  

“ i can let myself out so you can go bed “ he smiled lazily . 

“ i’ll sleep here tonight “ she  replied easily . 

“ so you can see the doors both and windows ? , i did that my first night here too really i know its hard to believe but y’all are safe here” his head fell back tired eyes starting to close maybe he was more drunk that he was letting on .

“ maybe you should go up and sleep next to your brother “ she took his closing eyes but he shook his head  mumbling a  “ i’m fine” .  “ stubborn as your brother , come on “ she huffed pulling him and yet instantly he was going like he was following this woman from his brothers words take him out only for him to fall back on the chair pulling her with him make her yelp at the sudden movement. 

“ hey sweetheart “ he smiled up , 

“ go sleep guess i’ll go upstair after all “ she huffed getting up throwing the  blanket she carried with her as he snuggled in even she couldn’t help crack a smile before she left hearing a sleepy goodnight before the snores rang out . she climb in beside ellie and fell sleep herself . 

It was torture month of watching her walking around town and  it was almost like his own personal hell almost three months since  joel arrived  with the quiet and yet beautiful woman at his side .  first she was same guards then after two months she began loosening up .  she began talking to people passing. One moment he never would forget was when she was heading to the clinic and kids in town spotted her charging her way like herd of bulls in a china shop and she crouched down the smile on her face it nearly made him fall flat on his face with how his knee almost buckled . she  was really beautiful  even that first night she was wearing the clothes some sweats and loose shirt and yet all he could think about was when she fell on him . the way her eye went wide and round and the squeak she let out or the blanket she put on him just smelt of her . never in his life was he down this bad and for his brothers girl no less.  She worked in the clinic helping the doc who honestly was impressed with what she knew and if it was  back when life was normal she would of made a perfect med student . she also went out hunting too and Tommy saw first hand how good she was there . yet he was starting to get pissed with his brother , every time joel was in the tipsy bison he would go home with some woman. Hell, the day he arrived he caught their attention .  some night he would even chat with them with y/n there  , Tommy couldn’t understand how he did it , how he could even think of another when he had perfection already .  she sat at joel side tonight both sitting at the bar as she was talking about some new books she read  ones tommy found and delivered to the door .  he’d leave them on the stoop with a note and her name on it and leave  because he knew she loved it  how big her smile was when she talked about the new story she was getting lost in . Joel's eyes were flickering down to one of his now regulars and he couldn’t help glare at his brother .  he didn’t realize it came out of his mouth , the scoff so loud that  had his big brother looking up at him  brows furrowed , confused as hell . 

“ hey i gotta use the little girls room and when i come back i will come behind there help you out i heard it’s gonna be busy tonight” she walked  off before tommy could even protest not much that would do given she never listened . 

“ whats yer problem  and well those looks i should be six feet under” . 

“ your girl is trying to get your attention your given to one of your fuck buddies “ he hissed. 

“ my girl … y/n we’re talking about when hell is she my girl ?” joel chuckled. “ she young enough to be my daughter tommy , i care and love her but like a friend .. shit is that why you ain’t made move on her i was really going to start asking about that”. 

“ wait she not your girl . like y’all ain’t even fucking?” he asked mouth almost hitting the floor . 

“ no  we ain’t fucking one she rarely sleeps beside me and whenshe does it’s nothing  most time she sleeps beside ellie or sofa , now you  gonna give me a drink and with smile this time” joel asked. “ thank you now i’ll leave you to it … but you hurt her little brother or not i’ll kick your ass” was all joel said before heading off to the woman that did have his attention just as she was walking to  walking  a smile when she seen joel and the woman and rolling her eyes . 

“ bout time “  she said heading before letting herself behind the bar . 

“ you shouldn’t be behind here sweetheart” 

“ you aint stopped me yet so shup and take the free help while it’s going”  she began making her way down the bar tending to the incoming patrons as well joel and his friend made their way out waving back . 

“ ellie so lost the bet” she laughed walking past grabbing drinks . 

“ hey we miller got charm “ tommy shrugged. 

“  oh really i ain’t seen an ounce of charm from you both “  she move effortlessly around and sure enough he was sort of grateful for the help as seem everyone adult in town spilling in the door .  he watched  she smiled and handed drinks out  or wiped up the spilled ones. Both working in tandem through the night , he also watched as men tried their luck , hoping to be the one to sweep her off her feet but she give them a polite smile and shake of her head.  Some took it with grace , some a bit miffed but got over it and well one didn’t take it at all every time she passed he would ask and she would say no   then when bringing drinks to the more elderly patrons  well the same man took in upon himself to try pull her on to his lap and instantly  tommy was pulling her behind him . 

“ i catch your hands on her one more time where they aint wanted well me and you gonna have a problem” he growled . 

“ what’s it you , what you and your brother sharing her  sure one more won’t hurt man share her with the rest of …” was all he got out of his mouth before he was out on his back and she was standing with her hand  pulled back walking off.

“ i guess that tells you what you want to know” tommy mumbled not expecting her to knock the man on his ass again til turns seeing her standing behind the bar putting ice in a rag and then on her knuckles.  “ she ain’t fucking joel” he added before heading to the bar. 

“ sorry no punching customers but i don't work here really so “ she winced putting the ice on her hand once more. “ it ain’t broken i can move it but it is probably sprained or bruised “ she shrugged .

“ yeah ok rocky you can sit rest of the hour out” he chuckled handing her a drink and moving her to sit down .  “ i got it but you can keep me company and i’ll walk you home “ he added. So she did telling him of the latest tale she was reading like he didn’t hear her tell joel earlier that night but this time he add his two cents and  nearly ignored his customers to just be lost in the orbit she was pulling him to .  then when place clearing out she was wiping down tables with her non injured hand when he tried taking it off her well she just moved to the next table making him follow almost a playful smile on both face til he was chasing her around the bar trying to take the cloth from her hand .  catching up instantly scooping her up in his arms he placed her on the bar  as she held the rag up over her head both panting staring into each other eyes . 

“ you gonna give me it now “ he asked eye darting to her lips and  her plush lips she was now biting . 

“ what you gonna do if i don’t” she smirked trying  to keep her own eyes on his and yet she leaned in closer almost wanting him to make the first move  one she waiting on  for what felt like forever.  “ fuck it”  was all she said dropping the rag beside her , leaning in closer her lips hitting his instantly his hand was in her hair , hell he may of took his time but he wasn’t wasting it now .  it was better then he imagined and he imagined it so many time probably an insane amount of time except back then he felt guilty when he thought she was his brothers girl now he was definitely going to make sure she was his . pulling back both breathless as they  pressed their foreheads together eyes lock and shared dopey grins . 

“ i never did say thank you for all those books “ she said breathless  . 

“ how you know ?” .

“ i  wait caught you one day doc sent me home early heard you almost fall on your ass “ she giggled.  “So what you say we get out of here and i’ll thank you properly” she winked only to have him lifting her up and throwing her over his shoulder  locking up easily and swat to her back side  as he stroll down the streets of jackson not caring who could see hell let them see she was his . 

“ bout time , take care of my girl asshole  “ was all they heard seeing a flushed and happy head of joel heading back  . 

“ oh she ain’t yours brother , this ones mine” tommy yelled back as she burst out laughing . 

“ since when “ she asked honestly taking the advantage of staring at his ass . 

“ since the first time we met darling “ moved her so she was in front  carrying her bridal style only stopping to either kiss his girl .