` ❀ 𝓢trong enough . ݁ ꒱

— The cold wind howls through the snow-covered trees as the three of you walk along the forest trails. The patrol has been long and silent, with Ellie and Joel's footsteps sinking into the soft white ground. You, younger and not as accustomed to these missions that require endurance and strength, feel your legs tremble a little more with each step. The cold penetrates your clothes, leaving your hands trembling, despite the gloves.

The sky is covered in gray clouds, and the sound of crows in the distance only increases the tension in the air. Joel, as always, is in the lead, his eyes alert for any sign of danger. He has always been protective, but also tough. The expectations he places on you, who he knows are physically weaker, weigh on each new patrol. And today is no different.

As you step away for a moment to check something in the snow, you trip over a snow-covered root and almost fall, but catch yourself in time. However, the small slip does not go unnoticed.

— "Damn, girl!" — Joel growls, turning to you with an irritated expression. — "This is no joke. If you can't keep your feet, you're going to end up killing someone!" —

His voice is harsh, full of frustration. The sound echoes through the forest, too loud for your liking. You feel your entire body tremble. His words pierce your skin like the icy wind around you. Your heart races, and your hands begin to sweat inside your gloves. The lump in your throat grows, preventing any response. You try to keep your head up, but your eyes are already filled with tears that you force back.

Ellie, who was standing a little behind, realizes what is happening. She sees the way Joel looks at you, the impatient and rude tone of his voice. She sees his hands shaking and his eyes filling with tears. Her face immediately falls, and she walks quickly over to where you are.

— “Hey, hey!” — Ellie steps between the two of you, her gaze burning toward Joel. — "What’s your problem, huh?” —