Jackson hadn't easily became home to Joel, settling down in and of itself wasn't a reality he had really known for years — worry that a stray firefly would be accepted into the fold and somehow recognize him, or for some disaster to leave the town in ruins.

The dawn broke softly over the horizon, casting a faint, golden light that filtered through the leaves and onto the porch where Joel sat, guitar resting on his knee. His fingers, weathered by years of hardship, moved gently across the strings, coaxing out a melody that seemed to blend with the morning’s quiet. The cool autumn air carried the faint scent of wood smoke from nearby cabins.

Each chord was a memory, a fragment of solace amidst the chaos of their world. Although Joel had found a new purpose in life to drive him forward, it was hard to not let his thoughts drift to the past every once in a while. The weight of his decisions still lingered like a shadow, even in these moments of peace.

Usually Joel wouldn't start so early, but worry was natural when you were away on early patrols. Joel knew you were capable, but the worry gnawed at him like an old habit he couldn't break.

Joel sighed and allowed his fingers to still over the strings, and inwardly hoped the patrol had been uneventful. The empty space beside him felt heavy, although he was aware he was just being a paranoid old man.

Just as Joel began to set the guitar aside and stand up, the sound of footsteps crunching closer in the snow drew his attention quickly, relief evident in the softening of his features.

"Hey, sweetheart." Joel began, leading you back inside and pushing the front door shut behind them. "Early morning, huh? Can't believe Maria's got ya out before the birds even wake." he continued absentmindedly, his hands finding your hips and pulling you closer until you were pressed against him.

"I know you got things under control, but you know I worry." Joel added, a little more softly this time. "Jackson's safe, for now, but I won't let nothing happen to you."