Characters belong to Pedro Pascal and any franchise he is connected with.
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Whiskey Tears
1. Whiskey Tears | 2. Newcomer | 3. Unwelcome | 4. Traitor | 5. Rupture | 6. Mercy (Coming Soon)
â Oneshots â
Sunlight and Lemons
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Not today Justin

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@papipedroo
Characters belong to Pedro Pascal and any franchise he is connected with.
â Series â
Whiskey Tears
1. Whiskey Tears | 2. Newcomer | 3. Unwelcome | 4. Traitor | 5. Rupture | 6. Mercy (Coming Soon)
â Oneshots â
Sunlight and Lemons
Iâm so sorry for the MIA. It has been crazy my friends, but Iâm back and currently working on the next chapter for Whiskey Tears. Hereâs a sneak peak of the next chapter Mercy. đ„
Rupture (Joel Miller x Reader)
Part Five of Whiskey Tears
Rated: Angst | Sexual Innuendos | Assault | Mentions of Rape | Violence | Torture
Summary: You, Joel, and Ellie have been a trio from the start. You were a family, but you find your relationship with Joel withering when he starts to pull away. Now a new comer makes her way into Jackson and into Joelâs heartâŠ
Joel was drowning. Not in the metaphorical sense that he has experienced from time to time, feeling as if the weight of the world was pressing down on his lungs⊠No. Actual drowning.
âAgain.â Heather had four men shove him backdown into the river.
There was barely any time to gasp for breath with each shove back under the icy frost. It was as if he grew numb to the freezing temperatures each time his head went under water. He was going to start getting hyperthermia soon.
âBring him back up.â Heather ordered and once again he was brought up to the surface from the icy depth.
Joel coughed up water, finally able to catch his breathe. His clothes were soaked to his skin and the rim of his eyes were rimmed red.
Heather crouched in front of Joel. A long sigh left her lips as she spoke, âWeâve been at this for a while⊠Are we going to talk now or do I have to bring Ellie out here? Tell me Joel, have you taught her how to swim yet?â
It was a known fact by anyone that Joelâs looks could kill any threat in his path. There was a promise looming in his gaze, one that only told of impending murder. Two of the men had tightened their grip on his arm and shoulder from the way Joel tensed.
âWhat.â He stated as if he wasnât trying to catch his breath moments ago.
She crouched in front of him. Three steps and his shotgun was the only thing between them.
âIt took three days and now this town and everyone in it, is mine.â She stated.
âGood for you.â Joel gruffed out, the least bit interested.
âYou know what I want, Joel.â Heather was becoming irritated now, âI want your allegiance. I want your loyalty. I want you.â
He didnât dignify her with a response, his glare the only thing keeping her from feeling empowered.
She sighed, âYou know that your brother and his wife refuse to cooperate⊠For days now, my friends have talked about shooting them⊠They make a good point that it would put your family out of their misery from living in the way that the world is now. Especially with a new life that will be coming soon.â Her gaze flickered to the gun as Joel began to struggle against the four men in an attempt to ring her neck.
âI decided against that though. I knew it wouldnât make you happy so I locked your family away instead. I promise you that they are safeâŠâ Her hazel eyes looked past his glare and into his broken soul, âIf you cooperate that is.â
Joel didnât like the way her mouth curled into a condescending smile. She knew that she got him.
The warmth of the fire did little to create a comforting warmth in your body as you cried out into a soiled cloth from the overwhelming pain. Mikelâs hands worked to clean out and stitch the wound he caused to your leg as you faded in and out of consciousness.
âJust a little more, love.â His tender words did nothing, they were nothing, and he would never be anything to you.
You wanted Joel⊠You wanted your little Ellie⊠You wanted to go home⊠You missed your family and you regret that the last words spoken to Joel were of anger. You regret that you couldnât see Ellieâs face that morning. You regret not having tea with Maria. You regret not helping Tommy surprise Maria with a baby crib.
âWhy wonât the bleeding stop?â Mikelâs voice held panic, âI need to cauterize your wound.â
I shook my head faintly at that, but it meant no difference as he left and returned with a blade scorching hot from the fire.
There were so many regrets that you couldnât amend and now⊠Now you might die without seeing what could have been.
âThis is going to hurt.â Mikel said as he gently place a cloth in your mouth.
You screamed as soon as the blade touched your skin. It hurt more than the pain of the gunshot as your eyes rolled to the back of your head. Your body shook before slacking against the bed.
Your vision blurred as your mind went dark.
It took two days before you were able to gain your bearings. The pain in your leg was dull as long as you didnât move it around too much. Your eyes tracked the motion of Mikelâs shadow pacing just outside of the cabin door. His words were set in a hush whisper as he spoke to someone else. Someone you didnât recognize. You strained your ears to listen to what they were discussing.
âSo⊠Jackson has been overtaken.â Mikel asked, âAre the townspeople alright?â
âYes.â It was the voice of another man, âHeather did what she said she would and itâŠâ You strained your ears to hear, but missed part of what he said. You did however hear him say the word, âSuccess.â
âThatâs good.â You could hear Mikelâs sigh of relief, âI hope that with time my love and I can return. I want us to be able to live peacefullyâŠâ
âWe are glad to have you apart of our group. I will see you and your girl soon brother. Let the red dawn rise.â
âLet the red dawn rise.â Mikel repeated and a pair of footsteps traveled away from the house.
You quickly lied back down and pretended that you werenât eavesdropping on their conversation. Mikel stepped inside the hut, snow falling off his coat as he removed the cowboy hat from his head.
âI know that youâre awake little pisi.â He said. The sound of his boots traveled across the room as he walked closer.
You weren't sure if the last word was an endearment or not, but it made your stomach twist in knots. You felt nauseated at how quickly he tell into the role of a lover with the high expectation of you doing the same. You wondered if that could be your safest way out of here.
Maybe playing along with his delusion will help let his guard down before making your escape. It was the only option you had being as you were wounded and he had the antibiotics to help you and if you just shot him that would do you any good.
Yes, you would have control over yourself and medicine, but how long would you need antibiotics for your leg to heal and with Jackson being overrun⊠How were you supposed to get more? No... This was the safest option. You just had to play your cards right⊠For now at least.
"Who was that?" You spoke with a scratchiness to your voice from being in and out of consciousness these last few days.
Mikel's quick observations had him getting you a glass of water before you even had the chance to ask for some. It seemed he was a little too observant. Something that you had to be wary of.
"A new friend from town." His answer was vague, something that you had already expected. Of course he didn't trust you enough to divulge any information from the que that was staged.
"They've taken everything haven't they?" You asked another question or more of a statement.
He looked away from you and towards the fireplace, "It's better this way."
"For who? For you?" You scoffed before taking a sip of water. You didn't realize how thirsty you were until the cup was empty in less than a second. You continued, âClearly you have gotten everything that you desired.â
"I did this for us." He snapped back, a glare held in his blue eyes as he got up from his stood as stormed to the fireplace to place some more logs in, âThis is better for us. This place will be our home until you have settled in to our new life. Everything that we have and will receive soon is a happiness more than we can ever imagine.â
"How?" You muttered, "Everything was fine before. The townspeople were happy⊠I was happy. We were all comfortable and at peace in our own way. There was no reason for any of this. You took my choice away from me."
"But there was a reason." You could see the way his fingers gripped around one of the logs. You could tell that you were pushing his temper, âHe was not good for you. Everyone could see that. He hurt you, discarded you, betrayed you. He did everything that I will never do to youâŠâ Mikel gently traced his fingers over the bandage on your leg, âAgain. I promise.â
You kept your mouth shut, afraid to set him off. He was clearly trapped in his own delusions of what could be and saying anything towards the two of us would clearly make him angry. Instead you focused on talking about the people who took him in. Who he once considered friends.
"How could you betray everyone?" You spoke quietly, "The people who took you in and gave you a home? You took their trust and ripped it to shreds Mikel."
"I didn't!" He threw the log across the room. The wood crashed against the wall before knocking over a crooked picture frame, the two crashing to the ground.
At least that was better than him crushing your leg.
"Tell that to the ones whose corpses litter the streets.â You replied, your voice still soft, but making its point across.
The room filled in a deafening silence.
Light flickered in through the cracks of the jail, creating enough light for Ellie, Tommy, and Maria to see. The raiders didn't care enough to turn any of the lights on for their prisoners, but at least they remembered to bring food and water.
"Bitch." Ellie exasperated as she pulled against the old bars of the jail.
"Language Ellie." Maria sighed as she rested against the back wall.
"I think this predicament calls for a little language sweetheart." Tommy murmured as he check the strength of the cell bars on the other side.
"Those bars were made to hold, you know this." Maria explained.
âI know sweets. I just want to make sure weâre not missing anything.â Tommy explained gently.
Maria nodded, "I know dear, itâs just⊠You both need to save your strength. We need a solid plan to get out of here."
Tommy thought for a long moment as he concocted a plan to safely get out of here.
"We'll wait till one of em lets their guard down." Tommy spoke quietly once a plan formulated in his mind
He stepped back from the bars, his military training kicking in as he spoke, "I've been watching their movements. They only care about how much damage they can inflict with the biggest weapon. They don't seem trained or vigilant. Their shift changes are every twelve hours. Group B is more docile, theyâre tired from the day and are easily deceived. We can make our move towards midnight when they are exhausted.â
He looked at Maria, âThis is where you come in dear. I need you to pretend that you are going into labor. Scream as loud as you can. Ellie, I need you by her side at this point and I need you to be loud and panicked. Once they opened the cell, I can get one of their guns. Then it'll be easy to get out of here. We have four hours left until shift change so we just have to be patient and donât set off group A." He looked towards Ellie.
She raised her hands up in surrender, "What?"
"Ellie." He pressed.
"Okay okay." She sighed, "No setting them off. Got it."
And there it was. It was small and had barely a percentage of working, but it was a plan that could just as save their lives. As long as they played their cards right that is⊠Tommy sat next to his wife, wrapping her in his warmth to keep her from the cold. At least these raiders kept the blankets in here. He watched as Ellie curled into one to try and get as much rest as she possibly could. Tommy made a silent promise to himself that no matter what happens, he would keep his family safe.
He could only hope that his brother had everything under control on his end... If he was alive for that matter.
"My family." Joel huffed as he was shoved with the tip of a rifle.
"Follow me." Heather walked through the streets.
The snow was gently falling now making it easy to see, "You'll see them when I can trust you again."
âYouâre the one who broke that trust.â He pointed out.
Heather of course didnât like that as she huffed, âI did what I had too.â
No. You really didnât.
Joel didn't reply as he quietly assessed the four men that were guarding him. He knew that Heather could handle a gun, but he can take her easily. The two to his left looked to be brothers with the way they mirrored each other, they were both to upbeat as if they enjoyed this kind of work. They would be easy to take down. The one on his left was skinny with a shaky hand and a frightened look in his eyes. Joel knew that if he took the two out on his left first then that one would go off runnin. Now the one behind him with the crooked nose and a nasty snarl... He was going to be a problem.
"You will be kept under guard here.â She said.
âMy. Family.â Joel repeated. His was a man of few words, but he was persistent.
âThey will be able to live here with you once I know that you can be trusted. Wouldnât want you to get the band back together and ruin my entire plan, would we?â Heather gave him a look, âNo more talk of this. Now get inside and change. I have plans for you and I donât want you dying from hyperthermia.â
With that, Heather left and the four guards remained. One of the upbeat brothers shoved him inside the home. The three young men headed inside with Joel while the tough looking one kept guard just outside the door.
âI reckon donât need to show ya where the shower is.â Link laughed as he took off his coat.
Joel didnât give him an answer and began to make his way upstairs.
âOh! And we found all yer weapons so donât even think about looking old man.â Linkâs brother Preston said as he pulled off his beanie, his short dirty blonde hair tussled.
Joel had an urge to punch that kid in the face. But he resisted as he reached the top of the steps and out of their sight.
âDonât even think heâd be able to reload the damn gun even if we gave him one.â Preston laughed.
âI wouldnât be so sure about that Link.â The younger, scrawny looking one spoke.
âWhat?â Link wrapped his hand around the back of his neck that was covered by his shoulder length brown hair, âYou scared of an old man Mathias?â
âAll Iâm saying is that I wouldnât get too comfortable.â He said quickly moving himself away. Joel could hear the three of the shuffling to the living room.
âYeah right.â Link rolled his eyes, âI could kill that old man with one hand tied around my back.â
The sunlight was beginning to drown in the dusk and Joel knew that if he wanted to get to his family alive then he would need to be smart in his next moves.
Joel carried himself up the steps, worn out and tired, but a plan formulating in his mind. He walked past each room, all of them open and ransacked. The bedroom to his door was wide open, the same chaotic mess dawning his floor.
A floor that hadnât been tampered with. Maybe the heavens were on his side. He hoped that this same luck would stay on his side.
Joel only halfway shut his door. He didnât want to make any noise for what he would do, but he also needed them to hear the creak of his door. He made his way to the bathroom, his boots hitting the floor rougher than usual to have them think that he was an old man, one that made noise wherever he went.
He turned on the water to his shower before silently walking back to his room. With the stealth of someone even a clicker wouldnât hear, he retrieved a 9mm pistol and a tactical knife from under the floor board. It was the weapons that he got for his firefly and he silently thanked her for keeping them hidden here. He checked to make sure it was loaded before heading back to the bathroom to take a much needed shower.
He needed the cover of night to exact his plan.
âHow did an old man like that even pull someone like her?â Preston wondered as he took a sip of the whiskey he swiped from Joelâs cupboard.
âI donât know man, but I went by Mikelâs cabin the other day.â Link said.
âMikel has a cabin?â Mathias wondered, âHeâs a new member like me right? Does this mean we all have the choice to leave if we want to?â
âMikelâs barely apart of this group and I ainât tellin you where that cabin is.â Link shook his head, âYou get any ideas of leaving, you know where your body is gonna be.â
âDude, he has the life out there. I got a peak of her before he closed the door and let me tell ya, even half dead sheâs a peach. I swear either he railed her so hard that she couldnât move or that gunshot wound is really getting the best of her.â Link laughed with his brother chuckling along with him.
âRomanians man, they sure know what theyâre doing.â Preston replied as he and his brother clinked their glasses.
Joel wondered if his favorite color was red with how much he has been seeing it lately. He silently creeped along the hallway and down the staircase, not one creek in the floorboards as he drew closer to the laughing hyenas in his living room. He wanted to kill them.
âYou shouldnât talk about women like that.â Mathias interjected, âThat girl could be seriously hurt you know.â
âWhat would you know, you virgin?â Preston scoffed as he poured another glass of whiskey, âI bet you havenât even seen a woman naked before.â
Mathias continued over stuttering words, âJust because I havenât seen a woman naked before doesnât mean I donât know right from wrong. Itâs not right to disrespect them.â
Joel briefly thought about sparing the kid. It seemed to him that he had no idea what he was doing with a group of blood thirsty raiders. If Mathias played his cards right then maybe he could survive.
âSometimes⊠You really show your age kid.â Link shook his head.
âHow about you come talk to us like real many when youâve got your cherry popped alright?â Prestonâs voice boomed in laughter, âIâm going to go take a leak.â
The other two though⊠There was no mercy left in Joel. He wanted to tear them apart until their guts painted his carpet his favorite color⊠But he thought against that because his firefly picked out that carpet and she would hate it if it got ruined.
Preston was easy as Joel waited in the hallway by the stairs. He was covered by the shadows that Preston didnât even have a chance to scream as Joel dragged his into the darkness, a hand around his mouth and a knife imbedded deep into his neck.
And then he waited as patiently as he watched his next victim fall right into his trap.
âYo Press! You get lost or somethin?â Joel heard Link yell.
When Link didnât receive an answer from his brother, Joel knew he got him. He heard Link stand up as fear rippled down the raiderâs spine. Linkâs hands quickly grabbed his rifle as he called out again, âPreston!â And he listened intently for the response of his brother.
âYou donât thinkâŠâ Mathiasâs voice trailed off as he gulped.
âNo. We would have heard that old man walk down the stairs if he were up.â Link shook his head, âHe probably just canât hear me, the drunk bastard. Go take a look.â
âWhat?â Mathiasâs eyes widened in fear, âWhy do I have too? Heâs your brother. You should go see if heâs alright.â
âBecause Iâm the one with the gun and what I say goes.â Link pointed it towards the kid, âYou want me to remind you of the last time you disobeyed me?â
Mathias shook his head in fear.
âGood. Now go take a look.â Link motioned to the hallway.
Joel listened as he heard Mathias trudge slowly to the hallway. Joel noted the kid didnât have a gun, leaving him to believe that his was most likely by the front door.
âPreston?â Mathias stuttered out as he ventured further into the hallway. He was terrified, his hands shaking because he knew that something had happened and here he was being sentenced to death by a mad man.
âPleaseââ Mathias thought it would be best to try and plead for his life, but before he could finish, Joelâs hand was wrapped around his mouth.
âYou donât want to die right?â Joel spoke low, barely above a whisper.
Mathias struggled to shake his head no from the tight grip that Joel had, but he got his point across.
âThen go out there and distract him. Keep him from looking towards the hallway.â Joel commanded, âDo as I say and you live to see another day kid.â
Mathias gulped as he nodded. Joel let him go and watched as the kid tried to get his footing. Mathias straighted out as he tried his best to look normal.
âAnything?â Link asked as soon as Mathias appeared.
Mathias walked around him and waited till Linkâs back was facing the hallway before he explained.
âI found your brother passed out in one of the guest rooms.â He lied. From the corner of his eyes he could see Joel creeping out from the shadows so he continued, âHe probably thought that you and I could handle the rest of the night on look out.â
âLike hell Iâm going to stay up. You and that big oaf out there is going to keep watch. Iâm heading toââ Before Link could finish speaking, Joel hit him across the head with the blunt end of his gun.
Mathias blubbered his words as he looked between Link and Joel.
âThe man outside. He loyal to your cause?â Joel asked.
âYes.â Mathias answered truthfully and he knew that he just condemned another one of his squad members to death.
âYou gonna run?â Joel asked.
âNo sir andâŠâ Mathias spoke quickly, âIâm not loyal to them. I just want to survive, I swear. I barely know this group.â
âI know.â Joel took his knife out of his belt loop, âTie him up in the kitchen. Ropes in the closet.â
With those orders, Joel left out the back door with one mission in mind. Embed his knife as deep as he can into the skull of the raider outside.
That left Mathias alone and he listened to Joelâs orders. He found the rope where Joel said it was and dragged Link to the kitchen where he heaved him up on one of the dining chairs and tied him to it.
âYou know you deserve this.â Mathias muttered whether to convince Link or himself, he didnât know, âIâve sat by long enough as I watched you and your brother pillage, rape, and torture to get your way. You deserve this.â He made sure to tighten the ropes.
Joel rounded the corner of his house, his eyes focused on the man who stared straight ahead. He was alert as he sat in his chair, gun held securely in his hand. Joel prepared himself for an altercation as he veered closer.
With his knife raised, Joel took one more step just as the man clocked in on his position. The large man popped up from his seat as soon as Joel embedded the knife into his shoulder. With a grunt the man charged, trying to lift his rifle to aim, but the gun was too long and Joel was too close. Joel quickly grabbed the gun as they tussled on the front porch. Thankfully the tall muscular man didnât try to yell or scream for help. I guess he figured he could take care of Joel himself.
Oh how wrong he wasâŠ
Mathias could vaguely hear the sounds of Joel and Kent fighting outside until suddenly it was quiet. He wondered with a racing heart who had won and if he should run? If Kent had won then maybe he could play victim? Say that Joel was the one who tied Link up. Should he hurt himself too? Try to make it seem more convincing? Before he could make a decision, the front door opened and in walked Joel who dragged Kent in behind him.
âHe awake yet?â Joel asked calmly as if he didnât just kill another man.
Mathias shook his head, âNo.â
Joel set the lifeless body by the other one, both in sight of where Link was knocked out. Joel didnât have time however, to wait for Mathias to wake up. He needed to find out just where this cabin was. He had enough, lying low now that he had all the information he needed about his family.
Joel stuffed a dish towel in Linkâs mouth before shoving the knife deep into his leg. That was the quickest way to wake him up.
Link woke up with a scream as he felt pain rippling from his leg and throughout his body. His head was pounding and the world seemed fuzzy, but he could make out Joel leaning over him like a monster you would tell your children about.
âYouâre going to tell me how to find my girl or youâre going to end up just like your brother over there.â He pointed towards the lifeless body, Prestonâs shoes barely peaking of the hallway. He took the gag from Linkâs mouth.
Link raged as he struggled against his ties, now he was fully awake, âYou fucker! Iâll kill you!â
âAnswer.â Joel twisted the knife.
âI ainât tellin you nothin.â Link spat with venom.
Joel glanced over to Mathias, âGet me a bucket of water and another towel.â
Linkâs gaze followed Joel to Mathias who was standing in the archway, âYouâre with him? After I took you in? You dirty fucking little traitor. After all Iâve done for you, I should have skinned your ass when I had the chance!â
Mathias ignored him as he went on to collect the things that Joel asked for.
âDonât look at him. Look at me.â Joel drew his attention back to him with the twist of this knife causing Link to groan out in pain. Joel spoke slow so that every word could sink in, âI am going to drown you. Itâll be slow and itâll be painful. Or you can tell me where my girl is. The choice is yours.â
Link glared at him as anxiety and fear rippled through his body. He could see it in his eyes that Joelâs words rang true, âI donât know.â He stated quickly as Mathias returned.
âWell now we both know that is a lie.â Joel placed a towel over his face, âLean the chair back.â He ordered Mathias.
âYou should tell him.â Mathias suggested.
âFuck you.â Link spat back at him.
Mathias leaned down close to his ear, âYou already did that, remember? Against my will.â Link shuttered from fear at Mathiasâs next words, âYou deserve this.â
Mathias leaned back up and nodded towards Joel, âDo it.â
The night was long with each pour of water, with each gasp for breath. Joel felt no remorse drowning a man with no morals and no regret.
âI donât remember!â Link gasped as soon as he was allowed breathe.
âTry again.â Joel stated before dumping water on him as he struggled for breath against the soaked towel.
âOkay!â Link gasped, âJust please. Please stop! Iâll tell you! Iâll tell you!â Joel held out a map and a pen, âYouâre going to point to where it is on the map.â
Mathias set the chair back on the ground. Linkâs breath was ragged as he took the pen between his teeth and marked a spot a few hours away from Jackson. Once Joel was satisfied with that answer he glanced towards Mathias.
âHeâs all yours.â Joel took a step back and motioned to the knife.
Link looked between them with wide eyes before settling on Mathias, âNo. No. No. No. No. Wait. Please! Wait. Iâm sorry! No! Please! Donât!â The last words that fell from his mouth were blubbering pleas as Mathias shoved the blade deep into Linkâs heart.
âNow you canât hurt anyone anymore.â Mathias whispered as he watched the light fade from his eyes.
Mathias stood still for a moment as he tried to catch his breath and calm his racing heart. He felt numb, but he also felt free. He had a choice now as he turned to Joel.
âHow old are you kid?â Joel asked as he grabbed the whiskey bottle from the table. He took a long sip as he waited for Mathias to answer.
âNineteen.â Mathias answered as he looked away from his once abuser.
âIâŠâ Joelâs words felt empty as he struggled to say them, âIâm sorry for what happened to you.â
Mathias didnât give him an answer and Joel understood why, âWhere are we going next?â Mathias asked instead.
Joelâs eyes widened slightly from Mathiasâs question. He didnât really understand why the kid wanted to tag along with him, but he didnât refuse. Joel set the empty bottle down before handing over Kentâs rifle, âWeâre going to get my family back.â
âOkay.â Mathias nodded as he took the gun. His green eyes shined bright with determination. It was as if he finally had a true purpose now and it felt exhilarating.
Iâm so excited to see another chapter of Whisky Tears coming soon!! I CANâT WAIT!! Just joking(I can wait lol). You are a very talented writer, thank you for taking the time to share your brilliant work!!
Thank you for the kind words and I will give you a warning to take a breath because this next chapter isnât for the lighthearted. đ„
Thank you for being patient while I fixed the problem with my account. As I take the time to finish up the end of chapter five for Whiskey Tears, here is a sneak peak for you fireflies. đ„
Hi, hope you're doing good!
I was wondering when the next chapter for whiskey tears is releasing?
Hello! Iâm doing well, thank you for asking and I hope that you are doing good as well. Iâve actually been having a problem on tumblr for the past week. I donât know if anyone else has struggled with it, but tumblr is not allowing me to edit any of my drafts? Iâve tried logging out, deleting and updating the app, but itâs still stuck. Iâm a bit worried because I am almost done with the chapter and it wonât let me finish it. I honestly donât know whatâs going on.
Will there be more to come for whiskey tears?
I believe I currently have a little over a quarter written for the next chapter so far. It has been a bit slow with all of the holiday celebrations, but I should be done soon now that I have a bit more free time. I have so many thoughts and feelings of where it could go. Should I make it really angsty? Should I give everyone a break? Not sure yet. đ„
Never thought Iâd see my country (Romania) mentioned in a Joel fic đ€Ł love the story! Keeps me on my toes ever since I started reading it. Love your writing style â€ïž
Oh? How exciting! I am happy to hear that and thank you for the kind words. đ€
HAPPY NEW YEAR â€ïž
Aww Happy New Year to you as well. đ€ Itâs been busy over the holidays, but Iâm excited to be back. Let us hope that 2024 is a good one.
Mood board for Whiskey Tears
I knew Heather was a crazy bitch! lol đ this chapter was great!
Heather served fem fatale and just you wait⊠Show is not over yet. đ„
Hi,
How are you? Hope you are doing good! I loved whiskey tears and was wondering when the next chapter is releasing. I'm anxiously waiting for it.
Take care and have a nice weekend!
Iâm doing good thank you and I hope you are doing great also⊠Well as great as you can be after you read the next chapter. đ€
We gonna get an update on Whiskey Tears??
Got me waitinâ on tender hooks đ đ±
Look no further⊠The next emotionally damaging chapter is out. đ„
Traitor (Joel Miller x Reader)
Part Four of Whiskey Tears
Rated: Angst | Violence | Fluff | Suggestive | Age Gap | Assault | Drugging | Language
Summary: You, Joel, and Ellie have been a trio from the start. You were a family, but you find your relationship with Joel withering when he starts to pull away. Now a new comer makes her way into Jackson and into Joelâs heartâŠ
You found yourself sitting at Maria and Tommyâs kitchen table the next morning. Your shirt pulled up as Maria looked at the bruise forming on your side. You were grateful to them letting you stay in their guest room last night and most certainly for the next couple of days.
âSo explain to me again how you got a giant sized bruise on your side.â Maria asked as she assessed the damage that had been done.
Your gaze fluttered to your hands as if I was being asked by my own mom, âI tried to kill Heather.â I mumbled.
Maria looked up from the wound, âYou tried to kill Heather.â She repeated, âBut why?â
âShe threatened Ellie and so I tried to kill her.â You didnât think it was that bad.
Maria sighed, âSweetheart. Thatâs not how we deal with issues here.â
âIâm sorryâŠâ You frowned apologetically, âNot for trying to kill her, but not being civilized about it.â
âWell thatâs a start I guess.â Maria placed an ice pack on your bruise, âThankfully nothing is broken. Did she do this to you?â
âNo.â Your throat tightened as you answered, âJoel did.â
âHe what?â Mariaâs eyes widened, âHe did this to you?â
âJoel did what?â Tommy stepped in the kitchen. He made his way to the fruit bowl, grabbing an apple.
âHe⊠He pulled me off of her. I donât think he meant to hurt me. I justâŠâ Your sigh felt like a heaviness settling on your chest, âHe didnât realized his strength when he shoved me.â At least you hoped he didnâtâŠ
âIâm going to kill him.â Maria seethed as he hand tightened into a fist.
You raised an eyebrow at her, âIâm sorry you can kill Joel, but I canât kill Heather? Where is the democracy in that?â
âOh hush.â Maria wanted to nudge you like she usually did, but held back given your current state, âI just donât understand why heâs being this way.â
The two of you were both talking that you didnât see Tommy leave, only when you heard the door slam did the both of you go silent.
âYou donât think heâs going over there do you?â Your voice trailed off as your mind ran through all of the possibilities that could happen between the two brothers.
Maria shook her head, âTheyâre Millers. A punch, a couple of words, and then theyâre good. Itâs what they do. Maybe Tommy can knock some sense into his brother.â
âShe said something to him⊠Donât abandon me.â You muttered as you mulled over the events of last night, âIt looked like those words really got to him and I just have this unwarranted feeling that sheâs manipulating him. Like sheâs tightening her grip around what he cares about most which is saving the people he can save.â
âBut why would she manipulate him?â Mariaâs brows furrowed, âFor what reason?â
âI donât know.â You shook your head before looking at her, âBut I refuse to let her tear apart my family. You should have seen her last night Maria. She knew what to say to get under my skin and it worked. Joel took her side.â You looked out the window to see the sun rising slowly, âAgainâŠâ
âIâm telling Mikel that you canât go on patrol today.â Maria muttered as she cleaned up the table.
You gave her a stubborn look, âBut itâs my turn to go on patrol, Iâm not going to let this keep me from my job. I need to protect this place too.â
âWhat? You canât go like this.â Maria countered with a look that only a mother could give.
You gave her a smile as you placed the wrapped ice on the table.
âIâve traveled the road far worse than this. I can do it, trust me.â You stood up, ignoring the dull ache.
You were grateful that it didnât hurt as much as you thought it would. You were also grateful for the chance to be out of Joelâs sight today.
âSee you! Oh and tell Ellie for me that we are having a snowball fight as soon as I get back.â I waved at her goodbye before greeting the chilled morning weather.
It was warmer than yesterday, that was for sure⊠You thought as you made your way to the stables to meet Mikel.
âI wonder if Ellie is going to wear her jacket today.â You muttered with a motherly tone, âShe better be.â
The morning light greeted the home, but it felt anything but comforting. Not with one person of the family missing.
âMiller.â Ellie greeted her dad as she sipped on her orange juice.
It was the orange juice that her mom spent the other day making. It made all the more reason for Ellie to glare at the old man who looked like he hadnât slept at all last night.
âYou callin me Miller now?â Joel huffed as he grabbed himself a coffee mug.
âYep. Because until my mom comes back, you Miller are nothing, but a stranger to me.â Ellie huffed.
Joel gave her his famous unimpressed look before pouring himself a cup of coffee.
He tried to think of the best way to explain what happened last night. How he reached the top of the stairs and found his firefly trying to kill someone in their home. How he just didnât want anyone else to die. How he couldnât understand why she hated Heather so much⊠Before he could say anything to Ellie, there was a banging at his door.
âJoel!â His brotherâs voice carried through the wooden door, âYou better get your ass out here right now before I kick this door in!â
âJesus.â Joel shook and set his coffee down.
Of course he couldnât have a quiet morning to think about how he would apologize to his firefly and talk about what happened.
His boots thudded against the floor as he made his way to the front door. Another bang from Tommy made his jaw clench.
âWhat is so importantââ He didnât have a chance to finish his sentence before Tommy was swinging at him. Joelâs eyes widened as he leaned out of the way and grabbed onto his brotherâs wrist.
âJesus Tommy, what the fuck?â Joel grumbled in disbelief.
âYouâre an idiot Joel.â Tommy huffed as he yanked his arm to free his wrist, but to no avail.
âI conquer.â Ellie spoke from the kitchen entrance, her orange juice in hand. M
Joel rolled his eyes as he let go of Tommyâs wrist before he turned his attention towards Ellie. He nodded his head towards the direction of the stairs, âGo get ready.â
She groaned, but listened to him nonetheless as she clambered up the stairs.
âYou hurt her.â Tommy stated, his tone was more even after his short burst of anger.
Joel gave him a look that soon turned into defeat as he ran a hand through his ruffled hair.
âI know I shouldnât have kicked her out, but they were going to kill each other Tom. I wasnât exactly thinkin clearly at that moment.â Joel explained.
âNo.â Tommy shook his head as he shoved his brotherâs shoulder, âYou. Hurt. Her.â
âWhat do you mean?â Joel pressed.
Tommy continued as the weight of his words settled in to Joelâs heart, âI walked down the stairs this morning to find my wife tending to your girl with a massive bruise on her side.â
Now it was Joelâs turn to look guilty as he finally realized what he had done. Accident or not he hurt her⊠Joel looked at Tommy with worry, âA bruise?â
âShe said you shoved her.â Tommy elaborated.
His words held a darker tone, one that Joel rarely saw in his brother except for the time back in the day when Tommy would call wasted from a jail cell. This was different though because it wasnât Tommy bashing someoneâs head against a bar⊠No⊠This was Joelâs fault and Joel would get eaten by a clicker before he would deny that.
The pieces came back together quickly. Joel vaguely remembered last night, but he knew that he pulled her off of Heather to try to break up their fight. He just didnât realize how much strength he had used.
âShit.â Joel seethed.
âYeah.â Tommy agreed, âJust you wait until you see Maria. Sheâs pissed at you.â
âI didnât mean to hurt her Tommy. I would never⊠I didnât mean to.â Joel ran a hand through his hair again, this time with anxiety and guilt rushing through him, âIs she okay?â
âItâs a big bruise.â Tommyâs gaze softened at his brotherâs distraught state, âBut thereâs nothing broken. Sheâll be fine in a few days.â
Joel nodded before immediately reaching for his winter jacket and shrugged it on, âI need to talk to her.â
âCanât.â Tommy stated simply.
Joel turned to his brother with furrowed brows, âWhat do ya mean I canât?â He muttered.
âItâs her route today and knowing that girl she convinced Maria that she could go.â Tommy looked up at the where the sun was, âYou can try, but Iâm not sure theyâll be there.â Tommy explained, his arms crossed as he watched the way his brotherâs shoulders slumped in defeat.
âIâll take my chances.â Joel grabbed his coat and rushed out the door.
âIf she ainât there then can grovel to her when she gets back.â Tommy proposed, âHopefully then sheâll be less likely to stab you.â Tommy joked as he turned and walked down the steps.
Joel carried on walking when he heard his brother call out to him.
âWord of advice brother. Get your shit together and kick Heather out before you loose your firefly for good. Thereâs no use in protecting someone else when you end up loosing someone you care more about.â
âWhere is he going?â Heather made her way out of the door.
âTo get his girl back.â Tommy looked to Heather, âLook I donât know the full extent of whatâs going on, but I heard enough to know that you should stay out of their business.â
âHe is my business.â She said defiantly.
Tommyâs eyes narrowed, âNo. Heâs her business. Theyâve been together a lot longer than youâve been stayin here.â
âTell me.â She looked Tommy in the eyes, her voice still as sweet as ever, but her gaze held something different, âRight now. If he were to choose between her and me. Who would it be?â
âI suggest taking that offer Tris gave you and move outâŠâ Tommy said all that she needed to hear, âIf youâre as nice as you seem then you can provide this act of kindness.â
âToday preferably.â Ellie muttered as she pushed passed Heather and walked towards Tommy.
âYeah.â Heather muttered before she walked back inside and slammed the door shut.
âI am not spending the day with her.â Ellie began to walk, âCome on, Iâm hungry and if youâre here then I know that Maria is the one making breakfast.â
Tommy chuckled before following after the girl.
You were trudging through the snow, seeing the barn on a few steps from you. Mikel stood by two saddled horses, his dirty blonde hair was covered by a tan cowboy hat, weathered by age and sun.
âMorning.â Mikel waved at you, his accent thick.
You remember asking him the first time you both went out on patrol together. He told you his parents were from Romania before they settled here in America.
âYou look rough. You doing okay?â Mikel watched how my stride was slower than normal.
âYeah. Everythingâs good.â I nodded my head not wanting to get into your private business with Mikel. He was a friend of course, but you like sharing your problems with anyone outside of your family. Thankfully he didnât push the topic.
âYou found a new hat.â I commented as I reached for one of the horsesâs reins, âHope you didnât wait too long.â
âJohn gave this to me. Pretty cool donât you think?â He tipped his hat before getting on his horse, âAnd no. Not long. I just came out when you showed up.â Mikel handed you a rifle.
âThanks.â You said and went to check the barrel to make sure it was loaded.
âYou donât have to. John said he loaded it.â Mikel said.
You smiled at him, âSorry, itâs a force of habit from Joel. I canât help it.â You looked back down again to check the gun until you heard his voice.
Speak his name and he shall appear.
âFirefly.â He called out to you.
It made you look up, forgetting about the gun as Joel engulfed you in his strong arms.
âJoelââ
âIâm sorry. Iâm so fucking sorry. Jesus. I didnât mean to hurt you. I promised I would never hurt you and I did last night.â Joel curled his fingers into your hair as he breathed in your scent, âDonât go today sweetheart, Iâll go. Just please stay with Ellie.â
You pushed back the tears that threatened to spill from your eyes, âNo.â You stated firmly as you carefully pushed him away even if you were ripping your heart out of your chest, âI need time away from you right now and waiting worriedly for you to come home safe wonât help that.â
âYouâre the one who hurt her? I shouldâve know it was you.â Mikel stepped up beside you, âWhy donât you leave her alone old man.â
Joelâs fist clench as he clocked in on the young man with a hard glare, âWhat did you just say?â The word barely got out, sounding more like a muffled growl.
âYou heard me.â Mikel pushed Joelâs shoulder, âShe deserves better than you. Someone who can protect her.â
Joel didnât try to fight back, of course he didnât. The last thing he wanted to do was frighten you by pummeling the young guys face in. No he stood like a force that couldnât be moved and let Mikel shove him as if he were some tough guy when in reality, Mikelâs shove didnât even make Joel stumble.
Joelâs glare hardened, âI know she does, but I donât think youâre the one to decide what she wants.â
âMikel stop.â You placed a hand on his arm and pulled him back, but he slipped from your grasp heading straight to Joel.
âOh, but I think sheâll let me with the cute little obedient thing that she is. After all she lets you run all over her does she not?â Mikel whispered so lowly in Joelâs face that you couldnât hear what he was saying, âIt will be easy to get her to behave once sheâs mine.â
He took back everything he just said. He could pummel this guys face in. Joelâs fist connected with Mikelâs jaw within the two seconds it took for Mikel to smirk. That smirk however was wiped clean off his face as he fell harshly into the snow.
âFuck!â Mikel cried out as he clutched his jaw from the seething pain.
âJoel!â You gasped at the sight, unsure of whether to be angry or appalled. You decided that both reactions would do.
âIâm sorry.â Joel apologized to you and only you for having to see that. He didnât apologize to Mikel who clutched his jaw in pain. He hoped that he would feel that punch for weeks, maybe even have a fracture in his jaw⊠But Joel could only hope.
âI canât believe you right now!â You cried out absolutely frustrated over the entire morning. Joelâs eyes widened as you stepped towards him and shoved him back. He couldnât be angry with you though. You didnât know what Mikel said. He just let you try to push him, âYouâre the one who did all of this. You have no right to be angry!â You yelled at him before turning around.
You reached down to help Mikel up, âAre you good to go on patrol?â You asked him as you looked at the bruise already forming on his jaw. Mikel muttered a yes, a glare directed towards Joel.
âGo get on your horse and weâll head out.â You told Mikel who walked over to his horse without complaint, being sure to hide the smirk growing on his face.
âDonât go.â Joelâs focus was solely on you, his hand reaching out as if he wanted to take your hand, but held back, âHeââ
âI donât care what he said or what you just did Joel. Go home.â You glared at him.
âI donât like him around you.â He pressed, his glare zoning in on Mikel.
âWell tough luck Joel. You donât get to go around being jealous over the fact that Mikelâs my friend after all the shit youâve done to me with Heather.â I spat out her name like it was venom, âGo home Joel. I donât want to see you for a while.â
His face fell, âYou donât mean that.â
âI donât know what I mean right now.â Your gaze flickered to the ground, âPlease.â
Joel sighed, his shoulders tense and angry at himself for being unable to convince you to stay, âFine.â He agreed gruffly, âAs long as I know youâre coming back tonight.â
âWhy should I come back?â You muttered.
âFor Ellie.â He knew it was a low blow, but he didnât want you to leave them.
âYouâve pushed me away for months Joel. What do you want me to do?â You asked, crossing your arms over your chest to hide the anxiousness that you felt.
âI know.â Joel nodded numbly, âI just⊠Fuck.â He sighed, âI donât want anyone else dying on my hands.â
âPeople die Joel.â You explained as you stepped back, âItâs choosing who you love more. Her or me. And to be honest⊠I donât think Iâll like the answer you give me.â You turned away from him and mounted your horse.
âYou.â He said when the only thing left of you was your horses hoof prints in the snow, âAlways.â
It was an awkward first thirty minute ride for you and Mikel. The two of you kept to yourselves and welcomed the timid silence.
âIs he always like that?â Mikel muttered.
âNot always⊠Itâs beenâŠâ You sighed as you adjusted the gun on your shoulder, âIs your jaw okay? Heâs got a pretty strong right hook. Iâm surprised youâre still conscious.â
He shook his head with a breathy laugh, âIâm tougher than I look. What do you even see in someone as broken as him?â He wondered as he looked at you.
That question caught you off guard and it took you a moment to answer, but you knew the truth. It lied deeply in your bones, an echo of your heart.
âEverything.â You looked up to the sky, âThe good, the bad, the broken, I see everythingâŠâ
âI could treat you better you know.â Mikel fixed his hat, âIf you gave me a chance. I think we would be good together.â
You breathed out a laugh, âOh really now?â You raised an eyebrow at him.
He dipped his head towards you and put on his best Texan accent, âYou bet darlin.â
The two of you broke into laughter.
âWeâve gotten along well for months have we not? If you give me a chance I can show you how you should be loved.â He continued, a hopeful look in his blue eyes.
âThanks.â Your tone was a lot more calm than from earlier, âBut I have my Joel waiting for me back home even if we are fighting.â You gave him a soft smile, âIâm glad that we are beginning to become friends though. I hope we can keep this friendship.â
âMe tooâŠâ He replied and you felt that was enough.
Maybe if you paid closer attention you would see something was off. The shadows in the trees or the hand tightening around a rifle.
âLetâs head out a bit further today.â Mikel suggested and you nodded your head.
âAlright.â You answered.
You should have paid more attention.
Joel entered the house with a heavy sigh and a deep ache in his chest. That did not go as he planned⊠He fucked up. He really fucked up and now he wasnât sure if you would come back. It was like you were slipping through his fingers and he could do nothing to hold onto you.
âWhat did you do?â Ellie spoke up.
Surprised at the voice, Joel turned around to face Ellie who sat on the staircase behind him. Her boots were still untied, but it looked like she had been sitting there for a while.
âHow long have you been sitting there?â Joel asked.
âSince I heard you groveling up the steps.â Ellie crossed her arms, âWhat did you do?â
Joel cringed at her words, âI⊠I fucked up.â Joel took a few steps towards her.
âI can see that, but how bad?â She pressed, âShe is coming home isnât she? She is right Miller?â
He grabbed onto the staircase railing to help him sit on the step, but it didnât make crouching down any easier, âI donât knowâŠâ
Ellie snorted, âYou really are old.â
âShut up.â Joel spat as he finally sat down beside her.
âWhat did you do?â Ellie asked again, âWhy are you so worried she isnât coming home?â
It was quiet for a few moments before Joel finally answered Ellieâs question, âI punched Mikel.â
âNo!â Ellie gasped, âYou didnât!â
Joel nodded, âI did.â
Ellie knew that Joel didnât act without reason, âWhat did he do?â She asked this time.
âHe isnât good for her.â Joel answered, not wanting to relay the words Mikel had said to him to Ellie. She would go chasing after the two and pummel Mikel to the ground.
Ellie wanted to lighten the mood and so she smirked, âBet you were jealous.â
Joel glared at her from the corner of his eyes, âWas not.â
She started to laugh. She couldnât help it. It must have been hilarious, âOh you definitely were!â
Joel only grunted at her in response not wanting to continue this conversation anymore. He wondered if maybe Tommy would have a job for him today⊠He could sure use the distraction.
Ellie wiped at her tears, âYou know I really donât know what she sees in you. I mean I do, but I donât.â She explained in the nicest way she possibly could which for Ellie was being very blunt. Something that her and Joel had in common.
Ellie and her honest words have always made Joel irritated, but he knew deep down that she was right. At least about this.
It was a while before Ellie looked towards him again. She saw the sullen look on his face and watched the way his scowl seemed to deepen even more. Carefully, Ellie rested a hand on his shoulder, as delicately as she could as if she was about to startle a bear.
âYou saved who you needed to save. Now itâs time to let Heather live her own life and bring mom home.â She said.
Joel sighed deeply, knowing the kid was right, âI donât know what she sees in me either.â Joel answered her honestly. He couldnât tell her that she would come home and why should she? He treated her horribly and now itâs hitting him in the chest. Making it tighten as if he couldnât breathe. It was the same feeling he felt when they first arrived here. When he thought that he couldnât protect his girls and now⊠Now he feels like heâs loosing the one woman heâs grown to love, âIâm going to go see Tommy about some work. Iâll be back later.â
He feels like heâs lost her for good and that truly terrifies himâŠ
Itâs been more than a couple of hours since you first es headed out on your patrol.
âHow long have we been out here?â You asked as you looked up at the darkening sky.
âNot too long though we should probably head back soonâŠâ Mikelâs voice trailed off, âLetâs just head down this bend and weâll turn around.â
You agreed to his suggestion and the two of you continued down the snowy bend. It was a few more minutes of riding before you saw that Mikel was squinting at something.
âWhat is it?â You asked.
âI donât knowâŠâ Mikel stated and the two of you rode a little closer to see what it was.
You both looked at the abandoned building that was down the hill.
âWhat is a cabin doing out here?â You asked.
âDonât know. No one has ever been out this farâŠâ He muttered, âLetâs go check it out.â
Mikelâs words only prompted you to move forward as you both traveled down the snowy hill and towards the small cabin.
It looked to be old, and most likely unused as there was no smoke billowing out the chimney from this chilled weather. The two of you cleared the area first before circling the home. Mikel went around back as you entered the cabin. The opened door provided some light, but not enough to see the inside of the cabin in its entirety. It wasnât until you pulled back the tattered curtain to the windows that you realized the place fully furnished.
You thought there wouldnât be much to it, scraped barren from the world that had been pushed upon it, but you were wrong⊠And you didnât like that you were.
You looked around carefully, not finding anything else out of the ordinary until you ventured further towards the fireplace. Even though there was no flame or smoke to the coals, they were still hot. An unwelcome chill feel over you as you quickly stood up, much more alert than you were previously.
You remained silent as you crept to the front of the house, gun now raised as you went to find Mikel. You hoped that he was still walking about outside and that whoever was here previously was long gone. You slowly stepped outside, eyes immediately locking onto the figure in front of you. You expected to see raiders, a clicker, hell a bloater would have made more sense then Mikel standing there with his own rifle directed towards you.
You didnât lower your weapon as you asked him, âWhat are you doing Mikel?â
âI need you to listen to me. Please.â His request was a near plee, something that you found irking.
âIâm listening.â Your eyes darkened at him.
âI fell for you the first time I saw you all those months ago. You were like a breath of fresh air and rain. I did everything to get near you, even fixing us to go on routes together when Joel left. She said I could have anything I liked if I did what she asked. She promised me this.â
âShe? What you mean she?â I muttered as I wracked my brain for an answer that could explain all of this.
âShe said I could keep you.â Mikelâs grip tightened around his gun as a crazed look fell over his eyes, âI followed orders. I did everything for this moment and now. Now itâs my turn to have what I want.â
âYou led me here.â You realized, âThis is your cabin.â You didnât want to listen any more to his words. The only thing on your mind was getting back to your family. Your eyes narrowed as you squeezed the trigger without hesitation, but you didnât get the recoil that you were expecting. You tried again⊠Nothing. Nothing. Nothing. Your anxiety picked up when you began to realize this.
âYou can shoot all you like. Thereâs no bullets.â He stated and that was all the answer you need. Thatâs why he handed you the gun earlier. Thatâs why he was assuring you it was loaded. You should have checked. You shouldnât have forgotten about the damn gun. You should have checked. Joel would haveâŠ
Joel.
You wished for everything in your soul that he was here with you right now. Fuck. Quickly you threw the gun to the snow and ran as fast as your legs could carry you.
Mikel sighed as he aimed his gun at you, âI was really hoping that you would see it my way.â He fired without hesitation, shooting you in the leg, âI did this all for you. For us.â
You gave a blood curling scream as you fell, staining the cold white snow in the warmth of your blood. You heard more footsteps and the sound of horses from behind you and you knew then that your home was about to be destroyed.
âEverything is prepared for your arrival.â Mikel stated, âDonât keep Heather waiting.â
âAnother successful raid.â One of the guys chuckled out, âSheâs too cunning. I knew that was why John kept her around. And that girl? You gonna share?â
âThis one is mine.â Mikel answered and you could hear his footsteps head towards you.
âJoel!â You screamed his name even if he couldnât hear you, âJoel!â
Mikel straddled your waist, digging the bit of his gun into your wounded leg, âYouâre still screaming his name even after everything heâs done to you? I am better than him!â He yelled as you cried out in pain, âWhy canât you see that?!â
You turned and watched over half the town population of raiders heading towards Jackson. It left a horrid feeling inside your gut as you could do nothing lie in the snow.
Your only thoughts were of Ellie and Joel.
âIâll make you see that Iâm the one for you.â He whispered in your ear.
Please survive. You must survive.
Silence fell over Joel and Ellie as Heather served them dinner. They were both lost in their own thoughts as they waited for her to come home.
âItâs getting late⊠Do you think something happened to her?â Ellie asked as she peered out the window the darkening sky.
âIâm not sure dear. Maybe they had to find shelter from the weather picking up?â Heather placated as she served them.
âIâll go check with Tommy, see if sheâs there.â Joel began to stand.
âBut your food.â Heather pointed to his untouched plate, âYou should at least eat something before you go. Donât you think?â
âIâll be back.â Joel reassured, âYou two can eat without me.â
âIâm coming with you.â Ellie stated as she pushed her plate aside, ready to join him on his search.
Joel immediately shook his head while he was putting on his coat, âI donât want you catching a cold out there. Iâll go find her.â
âPromise?â Ellieâs eyes showed her worry as she looked up at Joel.
âPromise.â
âStay safe then. Iâll look after Ellie until you get back.â Heather nodded towards Joel. He returned the gesture.
âAnd Heather?â Joel called out.
âYes?â Her gaze looked hopeful.
âWeâll discuss more about your move with Tris. I think your well acquainted with the lifestyle here to start building your new life on your own.â He said before heading out.
âI hope you like meatloaf.â Heather ground her teeth as she tried to remain calm from Joelâs biting words.
But she would make him seeâŠ
Not at all⊠Ellie thought as she looked at her plate. She cut into the meatloaf as she watch Heather serve herself. It looked off, but she warily took a bite and swallowed the unknown substance.
âWhy are arenât you eating yours?â Ellie asked as she slowly chewed her food.
âNot that hungry I suppose, but that just means more for you.â It was the way Heatherâs smile didnât quite reach her eyes that made Ellie feel uneasy.
Slowly she put down her fork, feeling nauseous, âIâm not that hungry either.â She said, but she had already eaten some of the dinner, âI think im going to go lie down.â She tried to stand, but the room spun and she ended up crashing to the ground.
âSweet dreams dear.â Was the last thing Ellie heard before falling asleep.
She would make him see that they are meant to be together.
Joel checked the barn first before heading to his brotherâs house. He quickly noted that two horses were still missing from there stables. That only let Joelâs worst fear come true at realizing she wasnât over at Tommy and Mariaâs house. It made his swift walk into almost a jog as he raced over to Tommyâs.
âWhat do you mean she hasnât come back yet?â Tommy asked the moment Joel barged in, letting them know what has happened.
âI donât know. I was hoping she would be here, but her horse is still missing. I think something has happened to her.â Joel ran a hand through his hair.
âWell round up some folks and head out there on a search.â Maria insisted as she stood up.
âThat sounds like a plan. Iâll getââ Before Tommy could finish his sentence multiple gunshots could be heard through the town.
âWhatâs that?â Mariaâs eyes widened at the loud noise.
âWhatever it is. It doesnât sound good.â Tommy murmured as he quickly put his boots on.
Joelâs heart was racing as he tried to keep a level head, âTommy, Ellieââ
Tommy nodded his head, âGo get her and bring her here. Maria you stay and keep an eye out for them okay? Iâll go find out whatâs going on.â
âIt sounds like a raid.â Maria sounded worried as the gunshots continued, now paired with yells and screams.
âThatâs why I need you to stay here, arm yourself, and hide. Wait for Joel to come back with Ellie and Iâll be right behind them okay?â Tommy pressed a tender kiss to Mariaâs forehead before he and Joel were out the door, armed and ready for a fight.
âIâll head with you for a couple blocks and then break off okay?â Tommy whispered to Joel.
Joel grunted with a nod as the two blended in with the night.
It wasnât long before Joel was silently hurrying up the steps and threw his front door. The house was dark and it seemed oddly quiet as he searched the place for any sign of Ellie. He quietly made his way upstairs and to her room where he was pushing the door open. He expected her to be awake, packing her backpack, but instead she found her unconscious and tied with duck tape on her bed. His footsteps were quick as he rushed over to her, but froze when he heard the clock of a gun.
His piercing eyes flitted over to the corner of the room where the moon shined on Heatherâs face. There she stood with a gun pointedly in Ellieâs direction. She knew what she was doing. His life meant nothing to him, but Ellie⊠Well she was his world.
âYou know I really thought you were smarter than this Joel.â Heather tsked with a sigh, âI thought this would go a lot smoother too, but you just couldnât choose me could you?â
âWhat did you do to her?â Joelâs gun was facing her with no hesitance to kill if he got the wrong answer.
âDonât worry, I only drugged little Ellie thatâs all.â She tilted her head, âSheâll be fine as long as you are cooperative so why donât you be a good boy and put down the gun.â
Joel slowly lowered to the floor as he placed his rifle down, âWhy are you doing this?â Joelâs voice dropped lower as he quickly assessed the situation.
âDidnât you hear? This town is in need of a little remodeling and I know just the group to get that done.â She smirked.
âYou donât meanâŠâ Joelâs fist clenched at the feeling of betrayal seeping through him.
âOh yes. Surprise! You should be happy. All of this couldnât have happened without you.â Heather smiled.
âI didnât.â Joel huffed defiantly.
âBut you did. You helped me dethrone John. Took him out so I could be on top and itâs quite nice up here, but I donât want to be alone. Youâve shown me just what love could feel like and I know that we could rule this town together now that your precious firefly is out of the way.â
âWhat did you do to her?â He growled and Heather rolled her eyes.
âYouâll never see her again, I can promise you that.â She laughed, âAnd you dug yourself too deep to gain her forgiveness Joel. Something youâre never going to get from her again.â She stepped towards him, âWhy donât we just have a glass of whiskey and forget about her hm?â
âWhat. Did. You. Do.â His tone was as harsh as the gun fire outside.
âWhy do the tiny details matter? Sheâs gone. Youâve made it perfectly clear when you casted her aside. I saw it in your eyes Joel. You feel something for me!â She urged, âAll you need to do is just give us a chance.â Heather pleaded, âYou, me, and Ellie would be good together. We will be the perfect family.â
âNo.â Joelâs tone held no room for consideration, âYouâre not her. Youâll never be her. I donât know what kind of delusion you have where we end up together, but it will never happen.â
âOh fuck you.â She glared at him, âIs this really because of her?â Her hands shook with rage as she held the gun.
âShe means more to me than you will ever know and if she is dead. I promise you, the infected will be the least of your worries.â He threatened.
âReally now?â She scoffed as she tried to subdue her anger, âWhy donât you worry about the girl you still have left hm? You really want me to be the villain here then fineâŠâ
Her gaze narrowed as her gun clocked, âDawn is coming your way and itâs about to bleed red.â
Itâs time⊠Chapter Four of Whiskey Tears - âTraitorâ is dropping tonight⊠Iâm ready for the amount of comments I will receive. đ„
You have all been so sweet and patient with me. I appreciate all the kind words and support. I am half way done with the next chapter to Whiskey Tears and Iâd like to give you all a sneak peek of whatâs to come. Itâs going to be a traitorous eventâŠ
Hi,
I haven't seen you on here for a while. Just wondering if everything is alright?
Hope you're doing good! (Also wanted to tell you that I really love whiskey tears and can't wait for the next chapter đ)
Aww thank you sweetheart for wondering how Iâm doing đ€ Itâs been a stressful couple of weeks with assignments. Being an overachiever with an unhealthy need for straight Aâs has its price, but that just means that this next chapter is going to be perfect đ