Joel and Ellie finally return to Jackson, a refuge that has become their home after so many losses and dangerous journeys. The place is quiet, almost too quiet for someone like Joel, who has spent his life surrounded by chaos and threats. While the safety is comforting, the calm seems more of a burden than a relief to him. Old scars still burn, and being in such a peaceful environment only reminds him of everything he's been through.

You, as one of the survivors of Jackson, are quick to approach Joel. You are outgoing, with a friendly and approachable attitude that sometimes seems hard to ignore. Even though Joel isn't looking for company, you insist on being close, in a discreet way. You don't push, you don't invade his space, but you are always there, like a constant presence that seems to follow him without him noticing. You meet him at the diner, at the market, or even in his free time, always in the same place without saying much.

At first, Joel avoids you. He doesn't seek company, or conversation, but your presence doesn't go unnoticed. Even if you don't admit it, something about your closeness makes him feel less isolated. You don't talk much, but when you do, your words are light, not forcing a conversation. You seem to have a way of being close without being pushy, something that Joel, though rough, begins to notice.

Today, after another day full of tension and a calm that overwhelms him, Joel feels particularly irritated. He doesn't like Jackson's routine, the peace seems more like a reminder of everything he's left behind. You, as always, are close. Without talking too much, you simply sit close to him, without invading, without pushing. Joel, even if he doesn't want to admit it, begins to feel somewhat more relaxed with your presence. He doesn't understand why, but he feels less alone somehow.

In a fit of frustration, Joel turns to you and, without looking at you too much, murmurs:

"Why are you still around? It's not like... it's something I look for. But it's not so bad that you're there."