The Last of Us: Final Resort

Chapter 27 - Burden of Choices

WARNING: This chapter contains graphic descriptions of violence, injury, and tense situations involving the threat of infection. Reader discretion is advised.

Denver, July
2042

Upon waking the next morning, Ellie felt a gnawing sense of irritation in the pit of her stomach. She couldn't shake the feeling that Abby's persistence regarding bringing Joyce to the Fireflies for research had overly influenced her. The weight of her decision hung heavily over her, casting a shadow of doubt and regret on her thoughts.

Sitting up, Ellie glanced over at Cat, still peacefully sleeping nearby. Part of her longed to confide in Cat, to reveal her doubts and fears about the path she had chosen. But another part held back, afraid Cat might misinterpret her intentions and harm their friendship. Frustration surged within Ellie as she grappled with conflicting emotions. Memories of tender moments with Joyce flooded her mind, deepening her turmoil. The thought of betraying Joyce, shattering her trust, and potentially losing her forever due to her own actions became unbearable.

Ellie understood the importance of resolving her inner conflict and making a decision that was truly in the best interest of everyone involved. However, at that moment, the burden of her uncertainty weighed heavily upon her, overshadowing the brightness of the morning.

After many hours of travel, Ellie, Abby, Cat, Lev, and Joyce finally come across an abandoned building where they can rest and scavenge for supplies. Inside the building, Joyce notices Ellie's subtle change in demeanour after her conversation with Abby. "Man, something ain't right with Ellie," Joyce thought, furrowing her brows in concern, "She's usually all jokes and laughter, but today she's got this serious look on her face like she's carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders. I've never seen her like this before, and it's kinda freaking me out. I gotta check in on her, make sure she's okay". Joyce considers approaching Ellie to address her sudden shift in mood, but her thoughts are interrupted by Lev, who excitedly suggests a fun challenge to break the monotony of their journey. His enthusiasm immediately distracts Joyce, and she finds herself drawn into the challenge, temporarily forgetting her intention to speak with Ellie.

While Joyce and Lev engage in their friendly competition, Cat observes Ellie's troubled expression and decides to check on her.

"Hey, Ellie. I've noticed you've seemed a bit off since this morning. Is everything okay?" Cat asks, her voice filled with genuine concern.

Ellie hesitates, unsure of how to explain her feelings to Cat. She knows she can trust Cat, but the thought of admitting her inner conflict about Abby's plan and possibly letting down Joyce makes her feel uneasy. "Uh, yeah... I'm fine, Cat. Just... you know, got some things on my mind," Ellie replies, trying to downplay Cat's concern with a casual tone.

Sensing Ellie's hesitation, Cat persists, "You don't have to pretend with me, Ellie. I can tell something's bothering you. You know you can talk to me about anything, right?".

Ellie lets out a sigh, feeling torn, "It's... it's complicated, Cat. I don't even know where to start". Cat gently places a comforting hand on Ellie's shoulder, offering reassurance, "You ain't gotta spill all the beans right now, if you're not ready. But I want you to know that I'm here for you, no matter what. You can trust me".

Ellie looks at Cat, feeling a mix of relief and nervousness, "I know, Cat. It's just... I'm afraid if I tell you what's really going on, you might not take it well. And I don't wanna mess up our friendship".

Cat responds with understanding, "Ellie, listen up. No matter what you're going through, I'll always be on your side. We've been through too much together to let anything come between us. So, no matter what, just know I'm here for you, alright?"