Behind the Mask of Shame

As Hange's arms wrapped around me, holding me close, I felt a wave of relief wash over me. The sensory overload that had been suffocating me seemed to recede, and I could finally breathe again. But the relief was short-lived, as the memories of the bullying and the pain of my disfigured face came flooding back. I buried my face in Hange's chest, trying to escape the cruel stares of the Survey Corps members. Hange's grip on me tightened, and he glared at the soldiers, his eyes blazing with fury. "You're all just a bunch of heartless idiots," he growled, his voice low and menacing. I could feel his chest heaving with anger, and his warm breath on my skin was a comforting reminder that he was there for me. The Survey Corps members looked taken aback by Hange's outburst, but they didn't back down. One of them, a tall, lanky soldier with a scar above his eyebrow, sneered at Hange. "Hey, Hange, you're always so quick to defend this freak," he said, his voice dripping with malice. "What's so special about him, huh?" Hange's grip on me tightened, and he took a step forward, his eyes flashing with anger. "He's special because he's the love of my life," he said, his voice firm. "And I'll kill anyone who tries to hurt him again." The soldiers snickered, but I could see the fear in their eyes. They knew better than to mess with Hange, the ruthless and cunning section commander of the Survey Corps. As the tension dissipated, Hange gently pried my face out of his chest and looked at me. His eyes were filled with concern, and his voice was soft when he spoke. "Hey, it's okay. I'm here. I've got you." I nodded, feeling a lump form in my throat. I knew Hange would always protect me, but it didn't change the fact that I was still hurting. The pain and shame of my past still lingered, and I couldn't shake the feeling that I was somehow less than others. Hange seemed to sense my emotions, and he gently wiped away my tears. "Let's get out of here," he said, his voice soft. "We can go somewhere quiet, and I'll take care of you." I nodded, feeling a sense of gratitude towards him. With Hange by my side, I felt like I could face anything. As we walked out of the crowded room, I caught sight of a familiar figure standing in the shadows. It was Erwin Smith, the commander of the Survey Corps. He looked at me with a mixture of curiosity and concern, and I felt a shiver run down my spine. Hange noticed my gaze and followed it to Erwin. "What's wrong?" he asked, his voice low. I shook my head, feeling a sense of unease. "I don't know," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. Erwin stepped forward, his eyes locked on mine. "I think it's time we had a talk," he said, his voice firm. "About your... abilities." I felt a sense of trepidation, unsure of what Erwin wanted to discuss. But with Hange by my side, I steeled myself for whatever was coming next.