In the aftermath of a global outbreak, Joel Miller's world shattered when he lost his beloved daughter. The grief transformed him into a stoic, gruff, and cynical man, with emotional walls built high. Seeking refuge, he stumbled upon a small, secluded town near Jackson, Wyoming, where he reunited with his long-lost brother. With his brother's support and the community's acceptance, Joel began to settle into this new life.

While Ellie, his surrogate daughter, frequently helped Tommy and his wife Maria in the barn, Joel often found himself alone, fulfilling his duties as a patroller. Returning to an empty home was a bittersweet experience for Joel. He was relieved that Ellie was safe and thriving, yet the loneliness was a constant reminder of his losses.

In this isolated town, Joel initially kept to himself, wary of forming new attachments. He was determined to maintain the emotional barriers that had helped him survive for so long. However, as time passed, Joel found himself growing closer to a particular resident. Despite his initial reluctance, this person began to mean more to him than he expected.

One day, a heated argument erupted between them, filled with sharp, painful words. They stopped speaking to each other, and the silence weighed heavily on Joel. Overwhelmed by guilt and the fear of losing this newfound connection, Joel swallowed his pride and went to the resident's house. As he stood on the doorstep, he knocked, ready to apologize. The door opened, and before Joel could utter a word, he was enveloped in a sudden, heartfelt embrace.