SNK rAMDOMM

Shame [part three]

Bertoldt ascended the ladder, with you lagging a bit behind. By the time you reached the rooftop, he was already relaxed on the chimney.

"Hoover.. did you have anything serious to talk to me about? Honestly," you inquired.

The 6' figure stood up, casting a long shadow from the moonlight onto you. His demeanor changed from being all nonchalant to nervous.

"Alright, ____," he scratched the nape of his neck, "Firstly, I'd like to thank you for 'dealing' with me while I was helping you with the 3DMG a few days ago. I was able to talk to you freely. It's not something I get to do with anyone, even Reiner, nowadays, since we're so occupied. But you let me, I'd say, vent out my feelings. Thanks."

You were grinning at the teen's gratitude and politeness. 

"Oh," you came closer to him and rested your hand on his shoulder (may I add, it was a bit difficult to reach, but you didn't mention it). "It was just casual banter, that's all. I'm glad you got something out of it, though. Also, I don't think there's a need to be sweating this much, is there?" you asked, noticed a good amount of perspiration on his cheeks and your hand, coming from his body. "Unless... if i can infer correctly, talking to me makes you nervous," you hinted suggestively. 

His startled expression only made you chuckle. "I was just joking, Bertoldt. If there's something else you need to tell me, go tell away, my friend."

He let out a collective sigh and edged closer to the end of the roof, legs dangling. You followed suit, but sat a few feet away from him. 

"Secondly... secondly, I believe I can trust you."

That was unexpected. Where did that come from? 

"That day, you emitted a presence of trustworthiness, loyalty. And, like I mentioned earlier, I don't get time to talk with Reiner much. It feels unfulfilling," he added. "_____, do you think you're trustworthy?"

Deep in thought, you answered, "Yes, Bertoldt. Even if people I don't necessarily favor swear to have me keep a secret, I do. I feel an obligation of some sort, but only to some extent."

Wringing his wrists, he continued. "I'll come out with this bluntly. _____, I'm the Colossal Titan."