[ Eren looks away, but he holds on. That's what matters. He isn't truly turning away from Maruki. He's listening. His grip is tight, even if his voice is miserable, and Maruki knows this is only the beginning of how difficult his coming years will be.

So his plea is a simple one, and profoundly desperate. ]

When you feel like you're entirely alone... When you're certain that you've turned everyone against you, and you're undeserving of their love...

[ Maruki's hands grip tight, tight. ]

Remember me. Even if the memory is faint. Remember that I'm with you. I'm always with you.