Keep Shining On

Unwanted Memories

Jean looks into the flames. Flashbacks come to him, overtaking his mind. Memories appear, and simultaneously play themselves in his head. Memories he regrets having. Memories of those he lost. Memories of his former self.

Then one memory springs to his mind. One memory that changed him. One memory he tried to forget, but can always remember.

Marco.

Jean feels a cold hand press against his back. Its soft touch alerting him and striking pain in his already heavy heart. He swings his body round, and the hand pulls away.

"Marco? Is that you?" Jean trembles with sadness. His words shake his heart.

The bright light before him dims itself, and a familiar voice greets his ears. "Yes, Jean. It's me."

Jean glare at the angels face, and sees a distant friend, fading with every second. He sees Marco, strong and peaceful.

"Jean, you've changed, and changed for the better. Well done." Marco's voice is soft, it's sweet sound making Jeans heart throb with painful sorrow. "Keep shining on, Jean, and remember all the good you've done."

Jean peers down at the ashes on the ground before him. The light fades out, and Jean returns his gaze to Marco, just in time to watch him go.

"Keep shining on, Jean, and remember all the good you've done." Jean repeats to himself, tears welling up like a river ready to burst it's banks.

Jean stands, his eyes remaining down. He walks slowly away from the fires, and towards the door into the building.

The door opens as he approaches, and he sees Petra being cradled in the arms of Levi. They smile to him as he walks past. Doing his best to smile back, he passes through the room, and Eld closes the door behind him.

Jean passes into the corridor, and follows it to his room. The door he heads for is dark, and has a feeling of despair around it.

He opens it with a creak, and Eren appears behind him. "You alright Jean?"

Jean begins to look back at Eren, but decides against it. Turning his attention back to the door, he pushes it further in. Without looking back, he steps into the room, and let's the door close behind him.

"Okay then. Jean's not alright." Eren says with a sigh.

Turning around, Eren sees Mikasa, her scarf wrapped delicately around her neck. The sight of her makes Eren's heart skip a beat. He approaches her with gentle steps. She steps in, and they hug with a full embrace, telling the other about their love.

Their hearts beat in perfect time, and they remember their unwanted memories.