[Freedom in captivity. Idly Aubrey wonders what Eren would think of that; surely nothing good. (She knows she broke his heart; she doesn’t quite realize how close he was to drawing this very conclusion.)]

[It takes her a moment to respond to the rest.]

—Oh, no, it. I never thought you were. [Impatient, maybe, but not at her. It’s weird to recognize that consciously. He has every right to be furious....]

I’m… sorry for snapping at you, earlier. Not to put you on a pedestal or anything [or so she’ll try], but… you’ve really been nothing but patient, even now. [Aubrey swallows. She hopes the appreciation is implicit enough.]

If there’s ever stuff you want to talk about… I’ll listen. Even if it’s awkward.