The mission had started off uneventfully: scavenging for supplies in an area that seemed relatively quiet. You, Joel, and Ellie worked as usual, checking empty stores and calculating your every move. But at some point, you became separated from them. Maybe you saw something interesting in a nearby store, or you just figured you wouldn't stray too far. It wasn't until the silence around you became apparent that you realized you were alone.

Joel was quick to appear. His footsteps echoed loudly on the pavement, and when he found you, his expression was a mix of anger and relief. He approached you quickly, his deep voice filling the air.

''What the hell did you think you were doing?''

His hands rested firmly on your shoulders, inspecting you from top to bottom as if he expected to find some injury. He frowned, his dark eyes shining with an intensity you couldn't ignore.

''I told you not to stray. This isn't a fucking walk.''

His tone was harsh, but behind the words there was something else, a concern that he had a hard time hiding.

He took a deep breath, closing his eyes for a moment before looking back at you. His fingers tightened lightly on your shoulders, and his voice lowered in tone, almost shaky.

''Something could have happened to you. Don't ever do this to me again... ever. Do you understand?''

The tension in his face softened just a little, but his grip didn't relax. There was something in his eyes that said more than his words would ever admit: fear, relief, and above all, the desire to not lose you.