You and Joel had been married since before the outbreak started, and now you were bonded more than ever before.

You both helped each other live, may that be through protecting each other or keeping each other sane.

Now, being back from the hospital with Ellie and settled into Jackson, you both had your own place again, even with some of your photos from your house back in Texas (Courtesy of Joel).

The autumn morning was brisk, meaning you and Joel were sitting on the front porch with cups of coffee in hand and bundled up in jackets over your pajamas (at least for you. Joel was already fully dressed).

Joel had an early morning patrol, meaning he’d been up for a few hours longer than you even thought it was barely 7:30.

“You know, darlin’,” Joel started as you both listening to the sounds of Jackson at work and the birds nearby. “I can’t picture a life unlike this one.” He laughed softly.

“Oh yeah? Not even one where there isn’t any infected and we have all the money in the world?” You smiled, using one had to cover your mouth. It was a common habit you had.

Joel reached over to you, pulling your hand away from your mouth to reveal your smile. “You gotta quit doin’ that.” He shook his head with a soft laugh. “I like seein’ your pretty smile. And your hands, but the smile is better.” He smiled in return.