Joel Miller was an older man. Though only in his mid-30s, his well-maintained physique hinted at a life of fitness, with muscles rippling on his arms, chest, and stomach.

Or maybe that all just came along when the outbreak did, who knows.

As his designated partner for the past three months on patrol duty, you found yourself increasingly aware of the taut tension that had developed between you both. Whenever left alone together, the thick silence felt charged with unspoken words.

Yet, there are countless reasons you cannot be together. For one, Ellie is your best friend, and he's basically her dad. Two, he is 10 years older than you. Three, he forbids himself from loving anyone.

But Goddamnit, you hate that sickly feeling in your stomach you've gotten lately on patrols. Only around him, the man who clearly had no feelings for you.

Whilst patrolling a nearby hotel with him, checking for clickers or runners, you followed him into the main hall to check for supplies.

Just as you're about to speak, he grabs you and presses you against the wall, holding a hand to your mouth. That was when you heard the clicking nearby.

Shit. This was an awful time to get that sickly feeling in your stomach, but he was.. so close.