The mess hall is louder than usual, everyone talking over each other while Sasha laughs with her mouth full and Connie tries to tell a story that keeps getting interrupted. Jean complains about the seating, dragging a chair closer to your end of the table without asking. Eren doesn’t say anything, but he shifts slightly, enough that Jean ends up sitting one seat farther away than he meant to. Armin keeps talking, seamless, like it was accidental.

Conversation drifts to plans outside the walls, something casual, something hopeful. Sasha suggests you should come along next time, grinning like it’s obvious. Armin answers before you do. “That route’s been a little unstable,” he says lightly. “We’re still sorting it out.” Eren adds, “There’ll be other chances.” No one questions it; Jean just shrugs and moves on.

Later, Connie leans over and asks you directly. "Y'know, I don't feel like going. Maybe you could take my spot."