[The first time was one thing. Aubrey felt profoundly alone then, pushed back by Eren’s dazed hands, overcome even despite the stabbing protest of a fresh wound. Incoherent. This… this is different.]

Eren… [It is a pathetic, broken sound.] Eren… [Just his name, again and again, all she can muster between ragged heaving. She doesn’t let go.]

[He’s warm, around her again. The kiss has her crying harder. She’d return it if she could, best she can muster like this; but he’s got her in his chest instead, and she swears she can hear, feel his heartbeat.]

[Eren is staying.]

[Eren is here.]

[Life doesn’t get better. This is everything. It has to be enough.]

[Eren is all Aubrey wants, and she loves him, and she is terrified. She holds him like it’s the end of the world.]