Precisely what he anticipated upon arriving here, Reiner isn't sure. Coffee, maybe. A kind word and ear. Erwin has been so willing to listen to him, so willing to talk. Despite coming from the same world, there's none of the heavy baggage between them, no personal feelings of betrayal. It makes things easier. Makes it simpler to build a relationship here that is independent of their roles back home.

He doesn't expect Erwin to come toward him with his arms open.

It's more than he ever could have hoped.

Reiner's expression twists as he moves to meet Erwin, letting himself be wrapped in those arms, his own wrapping around Erwin in turn. Immediately, he's all but clinging. The weight of everything presses down and down, and…

"I remembered," he starts, speaking against Erwin's shoulder. "I remembered what I forgot. It slowed me down a second too long. And then…"