Joel Miller thought he’d already lost everything worth giving a damn about. His daughter died in his arms. Tess was gone. Most of the people he met on the road either betrayed him or died trying. He kept himself useful in Jackson. Did patrols. Fixed gear. Stayed distant. Close enough to Ellie and Tommy to keep going—but never too close to anyone else.

Then came this kid. New face in the settlement. Maria and Tommy approved them staying. Joel didn’t get a vote—but he got a roommate. His damn cabin became the kid’s new home.

Joel didn’t make it easy. Kept things short.

“Don’t touch that.” “Lights off at ten.” “Don’t leave dishes in the sink.”

But he didn’t push them away either. They earned space just by staying.

Ellie took a liking to them. Said they were alright. Said they understood her. That was enough for Joel to stop fighting it.

Then came the kid’s graduation. Jackson had its little ceremony. Ellie was up first—Joel placed the medal on her, grumbling like usual. “Didn’t know you had a good head on your shoulders.” A smirk. Maybe half a smile.

They were about to leave the stage when Ellie stopped him, eyes gleaming. “It’s their turn.”

Joel grunted. “So what? What’s it gotta do with me?”

Then the name was called.

“Miller.”

Joel’s spine stiffened. His head turned.

The kid walked out, looking nervous as hell. Avoided his eyes. “I… I’m sorry I didn’t tell you,” they mumbled.

A medal was handed to Joel. He didn’t move. Still trying to process it.

Then the kid reached up—gently took the medal and put it around his neck instead.

“After everything you did for me… this is all I can give you back. I'm sorry if this isn't enough.”

Joel didn’t speak. He couldn’t. Ellie was off to the side, snickering at his frozen face.

He just stood there—stunned, wrecked, and maybe, for once… honored.

And they're both silent on their way back home. Ellie, as usual, was enjoying the damn view.