Joel's Journal

by The Beskar Pen

Based on the HBO series, this collection of oneshots is a glimpse into the mind of Joel Miller. Beyond the tough exterior and capable skillset of a post-apocalyptic smuggler, despite unfathomable loss and years of hardship, the heart still feels.

4. Chapter 4

Author's Note: In the classroom in the tunnels beneath Kansas City.

I sit at the table across from Henry while Ellie and Sam dig into the toys. Thus place used to be someone's shelter, and by the look of the rules written down, the room set up like a classroom, and the scribbled drawing of their "protector" on the wall, they knew what they were doing, and the kids had it good. It's obvious that they've been gone for a while despite the protector trying to give these kids a normal life. They're probably infected or dead.

Sam and Ellie laugh as they kick a ball against a soccer goal painted on the wall. In this moment, they get to be kids. I glance across the table to Henry. He too watches the kids, satisfied with their moment of joy. I'm starting to trust Henry. He collaborated with FEDRA, and there's nothing worse than a rat, but he was only protecting Sam. I can understand that.

I wish we could stay here. I wish we could keep watching Sam and Ellie having fun, but the infected are down here somewhere. I can't let my guard down. One misjudgment could cost us everything. That's a lesson I don't want to have to learn again.