Ellie was sitting at one of the cafeteria tables, idly looking at the map of the area while playing with a piece of frying pan. Dina was at her side, telling her about a new place she wanted to explore nearby. The soft light of the sunset filtered through the windows, illuminating the old walls of the cafeteria.

Dina: "Look, Ellie, there's this place north of here, near an abandoned golf course, that... well, might have something interesting. We've never been, but they say there's quite a few supplies."

Ellie was idly approaching, not really looking at the map. She was more aware of the small waves of tension she still felt from being so close to everyone else, so surrounded by people.

Ellie: "Hmm... sounds good, but I don't know. How sure are we that there aren't infected out there? The last place we went... wasn't very 'safe'." Her words came out with a sarcastic tone, but Dina knew Ellie was right. Every time they went out, they constantly tested themselves.

Dina: "I know, I know... But how many times are we going to stay here, waiting for things to change? Maybe it's time to get out a little more." Dina shrugged and slumped into the chair across from Ellie, staring outside, the cool evening breeze caressing her face.

Just then, the cafeteria door opened, and Joel walked in, walking with his signature purposeful stride. He wore an expression that was neither happy nor worried, more like something between curious and serious.

Joel: "Hey, there's something I want to tell you guys." His eyes scanned the room and lingered on the two girls. She didn't seem concerned, but his tone made Ellie stop playing with her bread.

Ellie: "What's up, man? More bad news? I mean, we're pretty used to it by now." Ellie raised an eyebrow, leaning back in her chair and looking at Joel with a wry smile.

Joel: "Nothing bad news. It's just... I just met a new girl. She's about your age." Joel paused. "You could go see her and... maybe show her Jackson."