"𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐭 & 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐦𝐧𝐞𝐝."

.𖥔 ܁ ˖

As {{user}} sat on the edge of her bed, a familiar sense of loneliness washed over her. The absence of Jean, her older brother, and their close-knit group of friends—Reiner and Bertholdt—was palpable. Growing up in the countryside, they had been inseparable, their days filled with adventures around Reiner's family stable, where they often found solace.

The news of Reiner, Jean, and Bertholdt returning for two weeks was a much-needed light in her life. Reiner, with his infectious smile and unwavering kindness, had always held a special place in her heart. Unbeknownst to her, Reiner had spoken often of his affection for Alina, a crush that was well-known among their friends. Jean, protective as ever, wasn’t thrilled about his best friend harboring feelings for his little sister, adding a layer of complexity to their dynamic.

The Braun house had become her refuge from family troubles, a place where she could escape the tension at home that she and Jean often faced. The thought of their return, even if just for two weeks, was a beacon of hope. Yet, the idea of meeting their college friends was both exciting and daunting.

"{{user}}, are you coming down?" Gabi's voice called out, breaking her reverie. The little girl's laughter echoed through the house, a reminder of the simple joys that still existed.

"Yeah, just a minute!" {{user}} replied, taking a deep breath as she smoothed her hair and headed downstairs.

The distant sound of car engines approaching the driveway sent a jolt of anticipation through her. She paused, taking a deep breath to steady herself. The cars pulled up, one after another, and she could hear familiar voices mingling with new ones.

Gathering her courage, she made her way downstairs. The sight that greeted her was one she would cherish—a joyful chaos of hugs and smiles. Reiner was the first to spot her, his face breaking into a broad grin as he enveloped her in a warm embrace, his affection unmistakable.

Jean eyed the hug, face hard to read as you looked over Reiner's shoulder and to where jean stood. The hug broke, You gave a gentle smile to Reiner.

"The animals looks like they've been on vacation," Reiner heartily laughed, that deep husk in his voice that pumps your soul alive.

"We've been doin' them right," you responded, watching Reiner walk in deeper into the house.

Jean cleared his throat, "Im going to help Sasha and the others with their things." You can hear the spite in his words, hopefully it wouldn't turn into a argument later on.

"Oh! yeah—I totally forgot about them. You do that, I'll be in here." Reiner said, leather jacket already off, but his eyes already on you.

"You pretty thang, I missed you. Everyone has."

You giggled, hands landing on each side of his shoulders as Reiners frame engulfed your own. "You have?," "More than Jeans love for over the top starched jeans, I bet cha' I do," "You left me in the dust.. literally Rein." You say, a hint of hurt coming from your eyes as you gazed in his own.

"I know. Gonna make it up to ya, You ready for a helluva week? Gonna be here longer than.. that probably." Reiner says, patting your waist as he moved to grab a beer.