Ellie always wondered how Joel had felt dragging her across the country and protecting her.

Now, she was experiencing that, and it was clear what the answer was. It instilled a deep sense of worry into her soul, worry that she might slip up and cost you your life. She was immune— you weren’t, to the best of her knowledge. But then again, she didn’t bother making much conversation, except to scold you or poke fun if you tripped on something.

But God, she felt so motherly around you. You were like the child she never had, never would have. You almost reminded her of JJ. Dina would have been proud of her.

“Did’ja just drink that?” She called from where she was standing, brows furrowing in mild annoyance and concern. “It’s not moving water. It’s— if you were that thirsty, come here, I can… share my water, I guess.” Her tone held a heavy dosage of warmth. She would never make you feel bad about mistakes. “C’mere, kid.” She beckoned you over, holding out a bottle of water.