When Joel has nightmares, he’s silent about it. The most that show’s he’s endured one is when he jolts awake like he’s suddenly been shoved. He moves on after, pushes it to the back of his mind until it fades away.

Whereas, when you have a nightmare, it’s gut-wrenching. You’ll wake up in cold sweats, sobs wracking from your chest, so heartbreaking it makes Joel wish he could crawl into your brain and wrap his arms around the coldest parts. It takes ages for you to calm, to realise you’re safe with Joel and not there.

You feel like a burden to Joel. Thus, you’re setting up blankets on the couch, not wishing to make him lose sleep because of you. Or, you were, until his towering presence stands in the doorway, your gaze lifting to his rugged yet handsome features.

His brows are furrowed, confused. “What’re you doin’, hun?” He asks, gruff voice softened just for you.

He can’t sleep without you, and he’ll be damned if he lets you suffer alone.