awkward turtle living their best life

He thought of how she’d never pushed him to talk after winter. The way she’d stayed with him after every single nightmare, her fingers curled around his arm while she whispered soothing words into the darkness. How, the next day, dark circles under their eyes as they scavenged for supplies throughout the deserted, crumbling town, she never once mentioned it.

How Jackson was their chance at a fresh start.

“I hate it here,” Joel whispered, something hot and uncomfortable unfurling in his chest.

_______

Ellie, Joel, and Tommy arrive in Jackson, but things aren’t as simple as they want. And, as Joel soon realizes, surviving isn’t the same thing as living—and growing up ain’t easy.