I'm Eren Yeager

Steps Towards Tomorrow

Year 835 (Jacob's house)

The dim light of dawn crept through the windows, casting a warm glow on the rustic interior. The air was thick with the scent of new wood and simmering tea. Jacob finished recounting his past, his voice barely above a whisper. The silence that followed was palpable, the only sound the soft crackle of the fireplace.

Carla's eyes were filled with empathy, her voice laced with apology. "I'm so sorry, Jacob. My question brought up painful memories."

Jacob forced a smile, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. "No need to apologize, Carla. Thinking of Rowan brings me happiness." He chuckled, the sound strained, as he gazed into the flames.

Karol, finished feeding the children, interrupted the silence. "Here you go, Carla. I think Eren's full." She handed the baby to Carla, who cradled him close, her eyes half-lidded in exhaustion.

Grisha stood, his movements graceful, his eyes locked on Jacob. "Alright then, we should take our leave." The creak of the old wooden floorboards beneath his feet echoed through the room.

As they prepared to depart, Karol protested, "But I was about to start breakfast...and the sun's barely risen!" She gestured to the window, where the sky was painted with hues of pink and orange.

Grisha smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "We have work to attend to, Karol. Don't worry, we will drop by often." He glanced at Jacob, his expression softening. "Especially to check in on you, my friend."

With that, they bid their goodbyes, the sound of their footsteps fading into the dawn. The door creaked shut, leaving Jacob and Karol alone in the silence of the wooden house.

On their way back, Grisha's expression turned stern, his eyes flashing with disappointment . Carla, sensing his mood, lowered her head, her face etched with sadness.

"If you wanted to know about his past that badly, you could've just asked me once we came back," Grisha said, his voice raised slightly.

Carla's voice was barely above a whisper. "I'm sorry, Grisha... My intentions weren't to hurt Jacob."

Grisha's expression softened, his eyes filling with warmth. "Ahhhh... Fine, Carla. Stop with the sad face." He chuckled, his anger dissipating. "But be careful next time. Words can build bonds in seconds and break them in seconds."

Carla's face lit up with a smile, her eyes sparkling with relief. She knew that Grisha's scolding was a sign of his love and concern, and that his gentle reprimand was a reminder to be mindful of her words. She leaned into him, her head on his shoulder, and Grisha wrapped his arm around her, holding her close as the couple went back to their house.

Some days later Georgia Arlet's warmth and nurturing spirit shone as she took on the role of wet nurse for Eren, cradling him in her arms and feeding him with tender care. Her frequent visits to the Yeagers' home, often alongside Armin Arlet, who was a few months older than Eren, became a highlight of the day for the young family. As Eren grew and developed, his tiny milk teeth began to emerge, a testament to Georgia's dedication and love. Her selflessness and care brought joy to all, and her presence became a comforting constant in Eren's early life.

As the days turned into weeks, Eren's giggles and coos filled the air, and his bright eyes sparkled with curiosity. Georgia's visits were always met with excitement, and she marveled at the baby's rapid growth. She'd play with Armin, too, watching the two young friends laugh and explore together.

One sunny afternoon, as Georgia was feeding Eren, he grasped her finger with his tiny hand, and she smiled at the tender gesture. "You're a strong one, little Eren," she whispered. Carla, sitting nearby, smiled at the scene, grateful for Georgia's love and care.