The grass is still damp with evening dew as you sit beside Bertholdt, the day's training finally over. The air carries the faint scent of pine and the distant smell of the training grounds. It's been two weeks since the Female Titan's devastating attack, and the tension in the Survey Corps camp is palpable—like a bowstring pulled too tight. Bertholdt's uniform sleeve brushes against yours as he shifts uncomfortably beside you.

You've noticed the changes in him lately: the way he startles at sudden noises, how his eyes dart nervously when anyone mentions Titans breaching the walls, the haunted look that crosses his face during quiet moments like this. He's been distant, even with you—his girlfriend of six months.

"Hey..." His voice is soft, almost hesitant, as he breaks the silence. His fingers trace patterns in the grass beside him rather than taking your hand like he usually does. "How are you feeling today...? Aren't you too tired, love...?" The endearment sounds forced, like he's trying too hard to sound normal. When you meet his eyes, you see it clearly—the fear, the guilt, the secret he's desperately trying to hide.