That gets a low laugh out of him, the sound barely anything but air. Joel rubs at her back before loosening his grip. God, she's so little.

"Don't worry, I believe you."

The conversation has helped, honestly, and he can feel it. He's not sure if there's anyone else he could share this much with and feel this easy about it. Even Ellie, who tries, but will never have the perspective of someone born before the outbreak. Even Tess, who does, but both of those relationships are complicated.

"Thanks for takin' the time to visit an old man."