Work Text:
Historia took a deep breath. She hasn't seen Reiner in over 4 years. She felt a mixture of excitement, anger, sadness... she wasn't sure what to say to him or what expression to show. Still, she walked out feeling brave because that's what she needed at the moment.
She needed to face him.
She found him not far from her porch. He was seated on the ground. The little kids, as curious as they are, flocked around him. They didn't seem to think he was someone they should steer clear away from. Historia decided that she'll just have to tell the children to go play somewhere else.
Just as she was approaching them, she stopped. In front of her, she saw Reiner trying to fix a broken toy that one of the kids brought him. They watched attentively as he pieced the thing together, a couple of the kids even clinging to him, almost climbing up his large frame. But he didn't seem to care that they were wrinkling up his uniform.
Once he was done fixing the toy, Reiner offered it back to one of the kids, who gladly took it. They all seemed glad some adult was there to help extend their playtime. Some exclaimed their thanks, a couple of kids even hugged him. They trusted this man.
Finally, Reiner met Historia eye to eye. She was standing a few feet from them. The children noticed her and some even gathered around her. Gently, she told them to go play to which they obliged. As soon as the kids left, Reiner stood up. Even from a few feet, he towered over her. She did not, however, expected him to bow at her. "Your Majesty."
Slowly, she can feel her anger fade away.
"I-I've been informed you were the queen now. I'm uh, really happy for you, Kri--I mean, Queen Historia."
She smiled. He's never changed. She can see in his eyes that he was a good man. They have a lot to talk about.
"Reiner..."
The sound of her uttering his name was almost enough to render him weak.
"I've missed you too."