[What is with these guys and just… deflecting. Taking what she throws out and brushing it off. Unlike with Eren, Aubrey wasn’t trying to hurt Armin, but it’s still its own brand of… what, jarring? Armin doesn’t unsettle her at all.

[She stands by what she said in the first place, if anything.]

[As Armin talks about the world not being fully cruel; friends, families, laughter and stories and dreams… Aubrey visibly deflates. Exhaustion takes over again, dragging down her shoulders, and on his final note she picks up the mug again for another long, long drink. It’s a good excuse to swallow. Hides her face, while it lasts. She wonders if Armin has any pictures with his loved ones but the question catches in her throat.]

[Her mug’s empty and it doesn’t feel like it did a thing. Aubrey can’t bring herself to meet Armin’s smile, however slight, for more than a glimpse.] It’s, ah. No problem. [Would be nice to sink under the table, right about now.] Don’t mention it.

Hope you find him.