Eren drifts, and Reiner waits, his folded arms helping to hold him back. Because not letting himself be pulled forward, not letting himself fall into Eren's embrace, Eren's eyes, Eren's lips, is more difficult than he can say. When is the last time he held himself back after returning home? He can't recall. Even when Eren is busy with something when Reiner arrives home, he always goes to Eren's side, always gives a kiss at the very least.

But he has to stay focused. He can't let himself tumble into Eren, even if he wants to. Even if the fact that Porco is dead makes him want to hang on and never, ever let go.

What do you want me to say?

Those very first words dig under Reiner's skin. He squeezes his folded arms. Makes himself remain silent, not interrupting as Eren speaks. That becomes exponentially harder when Eren says, Is this about Liberio?

Reiner swallows, visions swimming before his eyes. That basement. Begging for death. Destruction unleashed.

"The good it would do," he starts slowly, "is keep me from getting blindsided when people show up and tell me things. What is it about Liberio, Eren? Is it the evacuation? Is it a 'final fight'? Is it that Falco has the Jaw? Is it Porco—"

His voice breaks. He pulls in air. Pushes forward.

"Annie doesn't have her Titan here, Eren. Why is she saying that's something you wanted? Why is she saying you lie? Why," his voice trembles, "is she talking about stopping you?"