The Last of Us Episode 7 Recap: What Happened
While trying to treat a wounded Joel, Ellie remembers her final night with her best friend Riley. They explored a mall together, leading to the bite that revealed Ellie's immunity and Riley's death.
The Secret Date
Before meeting Joel, Ellie was a FEDRA cadet whose best friend Riley had joined the Fireflies. Riley takes Ellie on a secret 'date' to an abandoned mall, where they enjoy a night of arcade games and dancing. It is a rare moment of pure childhood joy that ends with a kiss, confirming their deep feelings for each other.
The Bite In The Dark
Their happiness is cut short when they are attacked by a single infected. Both girls are bitten, and they choose to spend their final hours together, waiting to lose their minds. This experience is what drives Ellie's obsession with a cure, as she was forced to watch her best friend turn while she remained horribly, inexplicably healthy.
Episode Cliffhanger
In the present, Ellie finds a needle and thread and begins the agonizing process of stitching Joel's wound.