Attack on Titan dads, get so overwhelmed by the birth of their firstborn they cry holding them for the first time.
They help with everything at home and tell you what a great job you're doing as well.
After a tiring night where baby just won't sleep, they kiss your cheek and whisper "it's okay, stay in bed, I got it."
You manage about an hour of sleep and upon waking go to the babies room to find dad walking around the room humming soft lullabies with them in their arms.
Standing quietly in the doorway taking in the sight, you hear pieces of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, and You Are My Sunshine, among other things.
Seeing you there with a smile on your face, dad smiles back and motions for you to come over. As they keep one arm holding the baby, the other goes around you, whispering a small "morning."
Baby is fast asleep in daddies arms, and you sigh happily, wrapping your arms around your partners waist, thankful for a peaceful morning with your two loves.
Content: About 1.3k words of celebrating with Levi and Kuchel.
a/n: barely proofread, last minute story! Enjoy!
"Do you think she'll like it?" You ask, looking over at Levi in the drivers seat.
He takes one hand off the wheel to find yours and squeezes. "She'll love it."
You're on your way to see Levis mom for Mothers Day, with a small present you made and a last minute larger one as well.
Once parked at Kuchels place, Levi comes around and takes the boxes from you and leads the way inside.
"You're here!" Kuchel says excitedly, rushing down the walkway after seeing you've arrived. It's been a few months since she's seen you.
She hugs Levi as best she can with what he's carrying and kisses his cheek, coming over to you with a massive hug.
"Happy Mothers Day." He tells her, continuing in to put the presents down.
The warm embrace has you grinning. "Hi, mom." She insists you call her that. You became family the moment Levi introduced you the first time, almost two years ago now.
"How's my favorite daughter?" Kuchel never bothered with the in-law part.
"Really good." You pull away and she brushes your hair back.
"You look good." She smiles and you head in as well.
"Happy Mothers Day." You say as you walk into the kitchen. Levi has already set up the lemon blueberry cake you and he made.
"Oh, this smells delicious!" Kuchel goes to get plates and forks. She loves your baking. "It's so thoughtful you remembered!" Her favorite flavors, that is.
"So, are you seeing your mom today?" Kuchel asks once the three of your are seated with your dessert.
"Her and dad are away for vacation still. So, we'll video chat later and celebrate properly next weekend." You'll send your love today, and give her a present in person soon.
You, Kuchel and Levi talk together about what's been going on since you last came over, Levi seemingly a bit distracted though.
"Are you okay dear?" Kuchel notices, of course. She reaches over and rests a hand on his cheek.
"Yeah mom. Really." He gives her a nod and small smile. Truthfully, he couldn't be better.
You smile watching their interaction, wondering if you could know Levi that well one day, to just sense something is the tinest bit off.
"Do you want to stay for dinner? We can make lasagna? I should have everything." Kuchel knows you like it.
"Sure mom, we'll stay." Levi looks to you, to make sure you're okay with that too.
"We'd love it. Just, might have to adjust dinner." You say slowly, still eyeing Levi, who gets the hint.
"Okay, what's going on?" Kuchel asks as Levi gets up from his chair and takes all the plates up. She's seen the looks between you two.
"I just have a couple dietary restrictions. They're a bit new."
"Oh! You, saw a doctor? Are you okay?" She comes over to sit next to you, a look of concern as she takes your hands.
"Yes! I'm fine." You promise, feeling warm at the love she gives out.
"Here mom." Levi comes to stand before you with the other unopened present.
Kuchel blinks and all but scoffs at him. "Levi, she's telling me something." She couldn't believe Levi thought now was the time to interrupt.
"It's okay. Open it." You pull your hands back and let Levi hand over the present.
Kuchel is still confused but sees you mean it so opens the box.
It holds a purple t-shirt, with flowers and hearts, with a saying. "The world's best moms."
"Thanks honey. It's from you?" Kuchel looks up at Levi. It's a bit unusual, but she'll wear it if he picked it.
"It's from both of us." He corrects her.
"Seems to have a typo." She notes, looking back down at the shirt that has moms instead of mom on it.
You stand up and shuffle next to Levi, taking his hand.
"Unfold it." You don't know who is more anxious, you or Levi.
Kuchel does as asked and takes the shirt out of the box and holds it out in front of her.
She reads the whole thing again and again until she cannot see it anymore due to tears in her eyes.
It reads, "The world's best moms, get promoted to grandma."
She lets out a strange cry that Levi doesn't remember hearing and stands, sobbing.
She turns to Levi first who goes to hug her but gets a surprise when she shoves the shirt into his hands, and leans into you instead.
You can't help but giggle as you hug Kuchel tightly and Levi stands there with the shirt and a baffled look.
"You're having a baby?" She almost squeals. You nod happily. "When?" Kuchel has questions but that she wants to know first.
"A while yet." You don't have an exact date, but it's months away still.
Levi clears his throat. "Uh, I helped with this present too." He comments, feeling a little left out. Although it does make him feel nice seeing you together. He knows she's going to be such a big help.
"Oh! Honey, I'm sorry!" Kuchel realizes she's giving you all the attention. And, he did have a hand in all this.
Kuchel let's go of you with only one arm, and moves to pull Levi closer, and now the three of you are hugging together.
"You like it?" Levi asks.
Kuchel laughs. "This is the best present ever." She didn't know if she would get grandchildren or not with Levi, and is so happy he found someone he wants to raise children with.
Soon the three of you are sitting down again.
"Is there anything you need? Anything I can do? Help with? Anything?" She wants to be involved, if you don't mind.
"Levis been doing an excellent job. So far, so good. But, I might be calling you for advice." From an experienced mother.
"Yes! Of course! Anytime. I can help with meals. You said restrictions, right? Do some grocery shopping for you. Run errends. You're welcome to stay here or I could stay there!" She can't contain herself and you all laugh.
"I'm doing okay with all that, for now." Levi doesn't remember seeing her like this before.
"I'm sure sweetie. But it's all about them now." Kuchel says of you and the baby. But she knows her son doesn't need to be reminded.
Levi nods. "I know. That's never changed for me." His feelings, need to be there and protect you have only grown.
"We're okay at the moment. It's still early. But we'd love your help later on." You know between her and your own mother, there's lots of things they could help you with. Things Levi might not understand. But otherwise, you know he'll be right there through everything.
"Thank you." Kuchel sighs. Knowing you'll come to her and include her means so much.
"So, what do you want for dinner? It's your day, too." Kuchel says, cupping your cheeks.
You smile and all head into the kitchen to find something.
"Say, how do you plan on telling Kenny?" Kuchel asks about her brother. He might be a handful but he's going to adore having a little one around.
"With your help." Levi says while you nod, making her laugh.
"Anything for you." She pulls Levi in for another cheek kiss. He's already asking for her help, and she's happy to give it.
Kuchel reaches for your hand and with a soft look, wishes you your second official Happy Mothers Day.
The first came from Levi himself earlier, with the continuing promise to always put you both first.
It's not that he was jealous, it just took him a while to understand.
"Hey love, who you talking to?" Your boyfriend asks at hearing you giggling on the phone.
"Your mom." You whisper, in between listening to her.
He pauses. It's not completely unexpected. You talk all the time.
"We're gonna meet for lunch at two on Saturday." You tell him.
"Why doesn't she ever call me to tell me things?" He mutters, but you hear.
"Hey ma, he wants to know why you don't call him." You out him.
"Really?!" He hisses as you try to hand him the phone.
"Why can't I talk to my daughter?" The phone isn't on speaker but his mom is loud and clear.
You shake the phone at him and he shakes his head and won't take it as she continues to rant on the other line.
You shrug. "I don't know. All of a sudden he's shy."
You wave him away, going back to your conversation.
"So yeah, we'll see you then!"
A few minutes later you wander into the kitchen where he is sitting at the table, seemingly waiting.
"You mad?" You ask timidly.
"What? No." He looks up and motions for you to come over and you sit as well.
"I like talking to your mom. She's always so nice and welcoming, and supportive." You list off some things. She's the biggest fan of your relationship.
"I know. She adores you." He tells you in a way that says so does he.
You half smile. "I'll tell her call you next time."
He takes your hand and gives it a squeeze and a kiss.
"Our relationship will always be special, but yours is too. I don't want to change that." There's a bond between his two favorite people.
Though his phone might not ring as often as yours to ask him if he wants to take in a movie or plan when the three of you should meet, when the three of you are together he feels all the love from both of you.
"I'll call you tomorrow, okay?" She tells him at lunch, patting his cheek.
And while his phone rings and mother and son talk for a few minutes, just a short time later your phone is ringing too.
Listening to you laugh, he's so thankful for his mother.
As the light of a new day peeks through the window, you yawn and blink open your eyes. Smiling you turn to your partner, only to frown instead, finding the bed empty.
Odd, it isn't like you to sleep past him. What time is it anyway?
Just as you turn again to look at the clock you hear shuffling from the hallway and soon he steps into the doorway of the bedroom.
"Morning!" You say cheerfully, removing the blanket, going to get out of bed.
Apparently that is not the plan though, because with his eyes still closed he makes his way to his side of the bed and falls in with a groan.
He is not a morning person.
You smile and shimmy back into bed, stroking his cheek.
"I just had to use the bathroom." He mumbles, sounding like he never woke up.
"Well now that you're awake, I'll go make you breakfast." You say, leaning in to kiss his cheek.
Before you can even turn a strong arm gets hold of you, and you are not going anywhere.
With a tiny laugh you try to pull out of his grip around your body. "Come on now."
He shakes his head and furrows his brow. "No." And his hold tightens.
"No? You don't want breakfast?" You ask softly, kissing his nose playfully.
You don't even get a response, his breathing steadying as he tries to fall back to sleep quickly.
You let out a contented sigh, looking at your lovers relaxed facial features and feeling his body language.
"You can sleep, it's okay, I'll do something else in the meantime until you're ready to get up." You don't mind letting him sleep.
"Just stay." Is his final answer, and with that he tucks you further into his body, assuring you will not be going anywhere.
With a soft chuckle, you don't fight it anymore and snuggle into his chest.
"Okay love, you win." You close your eyes and are soon lulled to sleep by his beating heart.
A tiny smile appears on his lips as you both sleep the morning away.
You both agree that any time you get to spend in each others arms, is something you'd always look forward to.
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A thank you to @charlotteplsdosth for this reversal idea, I hope it's a bit of a comeback, however small :)
I have this modern AOT HC that Jean had a guinea pig as a kid and without telling his mom (who had earlier said no) went out and bought his a friend and well, they were opposite sex so.. you can imagine Mrs Kirsteins horror when she comes to clean his room one day and he's been hiding guinea pig babies!
He cries when she makes him give them all away and his friends all take one. Everyone takes good care of them, except Eren who accidently forgot it existed and well 💀.
Carla apologizes to Mrs Kirstein and they decide not to tell Jean, but he tells Connie who spills the beans and Jean is pissed and to this day, that's why Jean still holds a grudge against Eren.
Thoughts on post-war Levi owning his tea shop right across from the reader's bakery?
They don't know each other, but reader comes in one day during her break and orders some tea before rushing back to her bakery. Levi loves the soft smell of sweets that linger whenever she comes in and he's quick to memorize the way she likes her tea.
His curiosity one day leads him to cross the streat and go into the bakery, and he's suddenly in love with how warm and inviting it all feels. He's very careful with his order. He wouldn't say he's a picky eater— just very particular about his tastes.
The reader's the first to start a conversation, and well, one thing leads to the other and now they always meet up at the same time every day. Levi brings tea. You bring the sweets.
He enjoys every bit of it, though he'd have trouble saying so.♡
Awe! post war Levi. The love of my readers life!
Being someone who doesn't understand tea a lot maybe he could teach reader a thing or two and try different variations until finding something they like.
Same with the bakery, it all smells so good but sweets are something Levi is careful about.
So one night after closing you take a whole tray of different bakery items for Levi to try and he makes multiple cups of different teas and you just spend hours eating, drinking and talking.
Before the night is up you know each others likes and dislikes, and not only about the food.
Since it's late and your shop is locked up you stay in his shop and together clean up all the cups and plates you've used, and he walks you home that evening, and you tell him to call when he's inside as well. He does and he's smiling as you're clearly overtired, but still wanted him to check in.
You call it a night since you both have to open the next day but see each other across the way and smile to one another and Levi points to his new sign, that tells customers if they bring the receipt showing they made a purchase from you that day, they'd get a large tea for the price of a small from him.
Are you swooning yet?! Now it's packed in both your shops and customers wonder if you will do something like that too. On a quick lunch break you run over to his shop to thank him and bring him something since he doesn't usually close. You jump behind the counter and while Levi serves the tea, you get people napkins and tea spoons and start telling them when you open in a short time that if people bring a receipt from Levis shop for buying take home loose leaf tea, that they'll get two muffins for the price of one!
And this man cannot adore you anymore I SWEAR! His sales suddenly go up real quick and while that's great it's YOU making him happiest.
So it continues and you make a sign and everyone is always in your shop and then his, or vice versa depending on what they want for the day. Every week after, you come up with new signs together for specials of the week.
And after closing time you are always bringing over left over sweets while Levi brews the perfect cup of tea for you both, because he knows exactly what you like now, and you get to know each other very well in the corner booth.
It gets to the point that you no longer sit across from each other, but next to each other. Hands no longer resting on the table, but on top of one another's. No need for him to walk you home and check in later, because you're both going to the same place. And maybe, one day, you not only combine your shops for good, but hold your very special ceremony with close friends and family right in the shop just before opening day.
Content: 4.4k words. You and Jean finally realize you weren't meant to be just friends.
Can be read as gender neutral, I believe. Maybe slightly implied female?
a/n- I've had most of this idea thought out for Jean for a long time, so here it is for his birthday!
Here's a song I feel goes well with this. And a completely different option. Enjoy!
"Stop moving!"
"You stop moving!"
"Sasha I can't do this!"
"Stop moving, I said!"
"Ugh!" You sit up from your spot with a huff.
You, Jean, Connie and Sasha are hanging out like always on a Saturday evening, this time in Connie and Jeans room.
The boys are sitting up on the floor playing video games. Sasha had gotten comfortable laying stomach down across Connies legs, hand outstretched so you can paint her nails. You had been leaning back against Jeans arm.
But every time Jean or Connie makes a quick gesture with a remote it bumps you and Sasha around, and at this point more polish is on the floor than Sashas nails.
You reach over to get a tissue and wipe up the floor.
"Come on." Sasha says, helping you up so you could sit on Jeans bed and continue.
"Hey, me next!" Connie jokes with you.
"Okay, pick out a color." You smile.
"No! We're finishing this!" Jean says while very focused on the game. He's winning, after all.
"I call loser." You grin while Sasha munches on a snack with her free hand.
"You nut, that's not how this works." Jean says, rolling his eyes.
"Sure it is." You laugh.
Even after all the video game sessions, you still aren't very good. Yet it's one of your favorite things to do.
"Connie what are you doing?" Sasha is getting invested in the game. "Don't go that way-"
"Hush up, would you?!" Connie demands loudly, trying not to get too distracted.
"Well, excuse me!"
"Sash, give me a chip." You hold your mouth open so she can hand feed you one.
"What time is it now?" Sashas attention shifts.
"Almost ten." You say after glancing at you watch.
You, Jean, Connie and Sasha are a tight-knit foursome and do almost everything together. Even when you're with your other friends, who you adore, the comfort you feel around these three is unmatched. You don't have to be doing anything exciting, staying in like this is just as much to your liking.
About four years ago you met Sasha at a breakfast buffet your favorite restaurant did once a month. You had just put the last blueberry muffin on you plate when she came to stand in front of you with sad eyes, asking if you were going to eat that. You were so shocked you just handed it over and took a cranberry one instead.
After going to sit back down in the booth by yourself, it wasn't long before Sasha and Connie had come over with a fresh batch of blueberry muffins put out by the staff and Connie made Sasha apologize. You invited them to sit down and ended up talking about everything, from which Kardashian was the least annoying, to what schools you were applying to. Turns out, the same one.
Just the very next day you were hanging out with them again, and they introduced you to their other amigo, Jean, who you got along with just as well, and soon you knew all their other friends too, the rest is history.
"You dumbass!" All of a sudden Jeans outrage pulls you back towards the game for a moment as he yells at Connie.
"Shouldn't we go soon?" Sasha asks, ignoring the commotion.
"Soon. Armin said he'd stop by though." After finishing with Sashas left hand, you force her to put the chips down and wipe her hand so you can paint the nails on the right hand.
You and Sasha keep chatting while you finish, Jean finally beats Connie, and before another game can get started, Armin is knocking on the door.
"Hey guys, it's time. Grab some blankets." He flashes a smile and wave.
"Okay, thanks." You collect some supplies and head into the hallway with everyone else.
For a few days Armin has been telling you about a meteor showing happening tonight. It's supposed to be one of the most visible in your area for a long time, so most everyone is collecting outside just a few hundred feet away on a clear, grassy area.
Armin joins up with his normal group, Eren and Mikasa, to lay out a huge blanket for the three of them. Ymir and Historia aren't too far away, and a bunch of the other classmates you see around campus are here too. Even most of the older re-entry students are there.
"Us two?" Sasha asks you as you lay out a couple blankets and pillows.
"What about me?" Connie looked offended.
Sasha playfully pushes him. "Psh, get out of here. That's my best friend." She points to you.
"So what am I?" Connie looks back and fourth between you two.
"My best friend." You roll your eyes.
"A pain in the butt!" Sasha speaks over you.
"So what am I?" Jean crosses his arms.
"The guy I'm sharing a blanket with, now cut it out!" You laugh and take Jeans hand, pulling him toward you, while pushing Sasha and Connie to the other blanket. Most of the time a decision has to be made of who is going with who, the immaturity shows, but there's never really a dispute and everything is solved easily.
You get settled on the blanket together and fluff up the pillows as Connie and Sasha run back inside to get snacks.
"Mind if we hang out here?" A couple of the other older students, Hange and Erwin, lay a blanket down on your other side.
"Sure!" They've always been nice to you if you ever need assistance. However the other friend they're usually seen with, Levi, still intimidates most the other students. He's got a comfy folding chair a little farther off away from the crowd.
You get settled laying down on your back, head on the pillow next to Jeans.
"Armin said it shouldn't be too much longer." You say, looking up just so you don't miss anything.
"So, what's up with you?" Jean looks over at you from his pillow.
"Huh? What do you mean?" You turn and raise an eyebrow in confusion.
Jean reaches over and ruffles your hair. "Feel like I haven't seen you all week."
You look over and smile at him. "What? Yes you have." You're sure of it.
"Nope. Maybe in class. Once for breakfast. We had a study session Thursday. Today has been the first time all week we've hung out. And even during the day you were with Sasha out doing stuff." He reminds you.
You snort a giggle. "What, do you count how often we see each other? I don't hear Connie complaining."
"Connie notices, he's just been hanging out with Eren and some of the others, that's all."
"Jean, we have the same friend group. We hang out with the same people. We-"
"I'm just saying you've been a little MIA, and I miss you. You've been hanging out with everyone but me. Like, even Annie." He knows you two are friends, but it's weird that you've been together so much. But maybe he's being silly, because even Sasha isn't complaining.
He can't help it though. Technically, Connie is his best friend, and Sasha is yours, and you are all friends together, but he's just been feeling extra close with you lately. He's found himself seeking you out more than the others, and you've been receptive.
Sometimes when Connie and Sasha can't seem to get out of bed in the morning, you two go out for breakfast by yourselves and bring them something back later. Or he texts you late at night, something he forgot to mention during the day, and it turns out you're still awake and you spend an hour chatting and sending each other stupid memes. Or there's a movie you want to see that isn't for everyone, and in the end it's Jean who convinces you to go with him, because he knows you want to go.
"What are you afraid I found new friends?" You grin at him. Turns out, he's not in that type of mood though.
"Yeah, it's stupid. Never mind." He shakes his head and turns back to look at the sky.
"Jean." You frown. He's feeling a very specific type of way. He even said 'me' instead of 'we' when mentioning not hanging out together.
You scoot closer to him and prop your head up, reaching over to rub his shoulder. He's actually right, you just didn't think he would notice.
"I'm sorry I've been distracted. I've been studying a lot and off on my own. I'm stressing over some of the upcoming tests and the future. I didn't want to bother anyone."
"You have?" Jean feels bad he didn't notice.
You nod your head. "Yeah, Shadis' class is killing me. I need to bring my grade up, Annies been trying to help me."
"I could help you." Now Jean props his head up like yours.
You give a tiny smile. "You hate his class. I hear you whine about it all the time."
"I could stand to pay attention more. Maybe it'll help the both of us." It's not his favorite class, but he should probably bring his grade up too.
"I don't want you to do anything because of me. Don't worry about it." You know he's a smart guy and one of the ones that as long as they apply themselves, just don't seem to need to study as often.
"But I do worry. You're...I always worry about you." You're on his mind more often than you know.
"And I don't want that." Your burden is not theirs.
"Well, I do. If you're having a hard time, I want to know." So he can do something about it.
"But that's the thing, it's ME. I...need to learn to deal with life when it gets difficult." You know things aren't going to be easy, and just stressing about one class is already giving you anxiety, because there will be so much more to worry about.
"You're not alone here." He doesn't want you closing yourself off when things get too much. He knows that's not a good idea.
"It's just, I want to be with you guys all the time. You're my happy place. I don't stress when I'm with you, but sometimes, I need to." You can forget the things you don't want to deal with when with them, but you still have to deal with them at some point.
"I'm sure, if you told Sasha and Connie, they'd tell you the same. But, I'm telling you, for sure, I don't want you, to not tell me something, because you think it's going to break order here." He places a hand over your wrist and gives you a squeeze.
You see the look in his eyes. He's here for you. You can tell him anything and he'd understand. It doesn't always have to be positive one hundred percent of the time. Just because that's how you want it to be, doesn't mean that's how it's going to be.
"I really appreciate it. So much. I just don't want..." You trail off. You don't want to bring him down.
"Look, just because it's an overall happy vibe, does not mean we can't talk about the hard stuff. Haven't we been friends long enough now? To talk about everything?" He really thought you've been at that point for a while, and is irritated with himself for not sensing this about you before.
But to you, he's in your head. He knows what you feel. "I don't want it to be your issue." You don't just mean schoolwork, you mean everything. Doesn't he get that?
"Bother me, anytime. I'm serious." He does, and doesn't see it that way. He just hopes you're listening.
You look down finally, a little overwhelmed by the thought that you have someone in your life who wants to hear about how you're doing, no matter what it is.
Jean keeps his gaze on you, where it's been the whole time. He thinks maybe, you get it.
With a quiet sigh you look back up and reach your hand to brush his hair back lightly.
"I'm gonna tell you something, and you can't say anything." No need to cause trouble.
He raises an eyebrow at you, and finds himself very tense when you suddenly lean forward to push your foreheads together.
In a whisper you tell him. "You're my best friend." In a different way than Sasha, more than Sasha, more than anyone.
Jean gulps and pulls back. He didn't know where this was going, and you didn't give him any time to think.
"I bet you say that to all the boys." So of course he makes a joke.
You giggle and lean away, falling back down onto your pillow.
"See? I'm telling you the truth and you get playful." Apparently it's back to being light hearted. But that's fine with you.
Jean leans over and smiles down at you. "I'm sorry." Here he was just saying he could be serious.
You shake your head. "No, it's fine. I don't have to be your best friend." You laugh again at the bewildered look he gets.
"What? You are!" He insists, eyes narrowing at the accusation. But really, his heart is full at hearing your laughter.
"Can't believe you thought I found new friends."
"Shut up." He mumbles, getting settled again on his pillow.
"You even missed me?" You don't let it go, turning to him, seeing the hint of a blush on his cheeks.
"I take it back." Not really, though.
You smile again, still looking at him, while he looks up.
"You don't have to miss me. Not you." He's going to be sick of you now.
Jean turns his head back towards you. Not him? Because, you're best friends? He sees the sparkle in your eye. You've been so open tonight. Maybe, he could-
"Ow! What the hell?" He sits up suddenly after getting whacked with a pillow.
Connie is the culprit. "Shut up already, you're gonna miss it!" He and Sasha haven't been listening in, but it's obvious if he doesn't intervene, you two are just going to stare at each other the whole night.
Jean lays back down and you gasp as you look up at the night sky. Off in the distance are a couple shooting stars, and then they are closer, brighter, more colorful.
Everyone is chattering as they spot a new one and pointing and gasping in awe as the sky continuously lights up.
"It looks blue!" You point up towards where you're looking.
"They all look blue." You hear Jean chuckle.
"Yes, but it's more blue."
You continue pointing out different ones that catch your eye.
Jean is looking with you, nodding or giving a quiet response when you ask if he sees one in particular.
It's the best he can do because for the last few minutes his vision has been blurry from tears. It's not only the beautiful scenery, but also other thoughts, some about you, that has him emotional tonight.
You break your trance on the sky to look over when you hear Jean sniffle.
"What's wrong?!" You worry all of a sudden.
Jean shakes his head, he doesn't want to ruin this for you.
"You tell me right now mister!" You're sitting up, hovering over him, blocking his view of the sky. "You just got done telling me not to keep things to myself. Well it works both ways!" You poke at his shoulder and he smiles ever so slightly.
"I just miss him. Marco." All this talk about best friends, and feelings. If Marco were here, he would know what to do. He's always given Jean confidence in himself, even now that he's not here.
Your shoulders drop. "Jean. I'm so sorry." You know of Marco. You know how much he meant to Jean.
"He would've adored you." Jean tells you, reaching up to brush your cheek.
You get a little misty eyed too, seeing Jean like this.
"I wish I could've met him." You hold Jeans hand against your cheek.
Marco passed away just a short time before you had been brought into Jeans life.
Jean closes his eyes and tries to control his breathing. He feels your hand on his chest. "It's okay. You're okay." You see him getting worked up. You know he can get overwhelmed by his emotions. It's why you don't want to put too much on him.
He puts his hand over yours and nods. "I'm okay." When Marco was here, he could help ground Jean, who has tried to learn how to do it himself. With you here, he finds it's been much easier.
Jean opens his eyes to find you looking intently at him. "Lay back down, don't miss it." He pushes you back, and you wind up with your head on his shoulder and your arm wrapped around his while you both look up again.
"I'm here for you." You say softly.
"I know." He whispers back.
"Can we go see him? Where he's buried? And bring me to places he liked, and you used to go?" You've never been before and hope it's not too much to ask. But you want to know more about him.
"Yeah. Yeah, we'll do that." Jean hasn't been to visit Marco in a long time. He's overdue, and would very much like for you to go with him.
You're both quiet while you try to focus on the sky, but are thinking more about each other than anything.
"Hey, what colors that one?" Jean points to one that he's been looking at.
"Purple." You tell him.
"I thought so." He wants to make sure.
"My favorite color." And Jeans spotted it.
He smiles. It was Marcos favorite too. He's beginning to think that Marco really is still watching out for him. And that he's sent him you.
"Can we hang out tomorrow? Just us?" Jean really wants too. He feels you nod against him.
"I'd love that." Something has changed tonight. You both feel it. And wonder, if it hasn't been happening for some time.
Jean knows it has. But he's been afraid to tell you. He doesn't want to mess things up like he always does. However, he thinks he can't go wrong here. Not with Marco on his side. Not with the way you make him feel. Not with the way you look at him.
And you know you've told Jean a little while ago he's your best friend. And he kind of implied the same, though he didn't say the words. But you know he cares about you, and misses you, and is it wrong to feel like this about your best friend? To, love him?
You move your hand down to find Jeans. "Jean...I don't wanna just hang out tomorrow." You hope he understands. Maybe Marco can give you some strength, too.
Jean hears what you've said, and how you said it. It's very clear to him. He's not screwing this up.
"No. Me neither." He squeezes your hand. "More. I want more. Starting now."
You feel tingles at his words and his touch and let out a happy sigh. You're on the same page. And yet, one of you still has to be sensible.
"What if it doesn't work?" You don't want to ask that.
"It will. I know it. We're not going to waste this." It's been building and has finally come out and he's going to make sure you and he try, together.
You close your eyes and smile. He won't let you down. So, you won't, either.
The sky is finally starting to quiet down. Less meteors are going by.
"Okay, but just say-" He won't even let you finish.
"No. Stop it. It's been two minutes, we're not breaking up." He's very solemn, and you have the nerve to laugh.
He let's go of you and adjusts so you two are facing each other.
"Can you just listen? I was going to say, let's make a pact. To get married."
"Married?!" You're roping him into marriage already? All before your first date?
You smile again at his reaction. "Yeah! Like, no matter where we are in life, together or apart, if we're not in another relationship, we'll marry each other." So just incase something unexpected happens, you always remain in each others lives somehow. He's always going to be your best friend. Whether he's the one giving you away, or meeting you at the alter.
Jean looks at you like you're crazy. "Like, at a certain age?" What the heck has gotten into you?
"Yeah. Maybe say, thirty?" That's a little ways away. Enough time for a lot of things to happen.
He runs a hand through his hair while he considers this. After a moment he than runs his hand through your hair, brings it back to your cheek, and takes your hand again. All he knows is the words date, marriage, and you.
"We're not going to make it." He says quietly, making your eyes widen.
"What? How can you say that?" Wasn't he the one saying this would work?
"I mean, I wouldn't wait that long." He won't be able to.
"Oh." You feel a slight blush and Jean doesn't miss it. How could you think he meant anything else?
"Besides, one of us will be a little closer to thirty in a few days." It's his birthday soon.
You hum in response and lean forward to bury your face in his chest.
Jean smiles and puts an arm around you, kissing the top of your head. Happy early birthday to him.
You mumble something he can't quite hear and he pushes you back some. "What are you saying?" He wonders.
You huff, working up the courage to say it again. "I said, is it wrong to want to kiss your best friend?" You look straight at him when you say this.
No, no it's not. "Before our first date?" But he's being silly, because you would always consider this your first official date.
Obviously you would get to kissing. It's right around the corner. It's closer than you thought.
You wait for him to make a move, and he waits for you. You search each others eyes. This has been coming for a long time.
You are interrupted by a cough trying to get your attention.
You both look over at Erwin and Hange on the blanket next to you.
"Do it, Kirstein." Erwin encourages him.
"Don't wait." Hange adds. They haven't meant to listen in on your conversation, but have been invested for the last few minutes now.
Jean let's out a curse and turns around yet again to stare at Connie who has just kicked him. Sasha shrugs as they stand to pick up their things. They've been listening too. They both agree with Erwin. Just do it, already. For as much as you think those two don't pay attention, they saw this coming a mile away.
Everyone is starting to head in now. The night is ending.
Jean looks back to you and feels like the wind just knocked out of him. The way you smile at him is almost too much. You're beautiful. He's always thought so. But right now, if he wasn't already on the ground, you could've knocked him over with a feather.
"You wanna kiss me?" You blink at him, smiling wider when he nods slowly.
And so it finally happens.
For as soft and delicate as is it, it makes you completely weak and ache for him that much more.
The touches and sweet noises you both make might have been awkward, if either of you cared about anything else but each other in that moment.
Jean pulls back first, keeping his forehead on yours.
You have all the time in the world for more kisses. Of which there will be many, of all different variations.
You're left breathless thanks to Jean and all the thoughts running through your head, all of which belong to him.
"You in there?" He asks, patting your temple.
You nod and pull back, finally opening your eyes to look at him.
"One day, you're gonna wake up, and be thirty." You start to ramble, and Jean smiles as you speak. "And I'm gonna be right there, telling you happy birthday, and if I don't have a ring yet, we're gonna get dressed and just go down and get married. If Connie and Sasha are awake, they can come be witnesses. But we're not waiting. The very moment we're both awake."
Jean can't help but lean in and give you another brisk kiss. "You're right, we're not waiting. Too far away." He's not going to make it until then. No possible way.
"Twenty-nine then?" You go one year lower.
"Twenty-seven." And Jean goes lower than that. Just a few years away. Almost half of what you started at.
You grin and nod. You're both on board with this plan. This plan that is bound to fail. Failure you're both looking forward to.
"What do you want for your birthday this year?" You ask about his upcoming one.
He chuckles. "You're funny." Like you haven't just given him everything he's wanted.
"Well, I'll think of something." Instead of going to stand and head in with everyone else, you lay back down.
Jean looks down at you, wondering what he's done to deserve you.
"You wanna stay out here a while longer?" You nod at him so he lays back down too. You move closer so your leg is on his and your head is on his chest, and he puts his arms around you. This feels so natural, you're not sure how you've gone without it.
"You wanna stay out here all night?" He would if you wanted.
"Yes." You nod against him. There's nowhere else you'd rather be.
Maybe you'll go back in soon, or maybe you'll watch the sunrise that's just hours away.
Jean let's out a content sigh. The temperature might drop, but he's sure he can keep you warm.
"You want me to make you breakfast in the morning?" He wants to.
"Only if you let me help." That sounds like a perfect start to the day.
"Do you wanna-"
"Yes." You don't let him finish. "Yes Jean, to everything." For the rest of your lives.
content: 1261 words of unedited friends to ? with Jean. I hope it makes some sort of sense.
an- This was very sudden and I didn’t mean to write this. Oops. Also I totally associate this song with best friend Jean. Might not quite go but in my head it does!
Hanging out with your best friend on Saturday night like always, waiting for your other friends to head over after their day together, you lay on his bed staring at the ceiling.
“Hey, do you want some…” His voice trails off when he comes back from the kitchen seeing what snacks are available. “You okay?”
It’s obvious you’re a bit distracted. Even if your eyes weren’t a little empty and you didn’t hear him coming, he would know something is up.
“Is there something wrong with me?” You ask, eyes still watching the ceiling fan.
Jean isn’t sure what you’re talking about, but knows the answer. “What? Of course not.” He comes and sits down next to you.
“Then why can’t…I mean, why aren’t I with someone?” Everyone has been pairing off and though you have your friend group, dates for you are far and few between.
Is it you? Is it them? You don’t necessarily seek anyone out or go looking for a relationship. But shouldn’t one find you? A good one? Not the stupid flings you had in high school that usually left you crying on Jeans shoulder.
You’re getting older now. It’s your second year of college and it’s been months since anyone has even looked your way it seems.
Jean clears his throat, interrupting your thoughts.
You finally look over and see he’s trying to move closer. Once you scoot further in he lays down next to you.
It’s not unusual. You’ve shared a bed before, whether just hanging out watching a movie or spending the night, because it was the most comfortable option for both of you.
“You don’t need anyone, you know.” He tells you, looking into your eyes.
There is nothing wrong with you. You are so much better than any of the idiots who you thought were worth your time. It breaks Jeans heart you don’t know this.
“You have to say that. You’re my best friend.” Even so, you’re grateful. You reach over and move his hair back.
But no, there’s another thing you don’t know. It’s more than being friends. And that you need to learn to love yourself first. You have to realize you’re worth so much more then the tears they made you cry.
“Even so, it’s true.” He takes your hand and squeezes. “There’s nothing wrong with you.”
He feels there’s something wrong with him though. Pining after you and not being able to say it. Telling you that you don’t need anyone when he wants it to be him.
You lean in and rest your head and hand on his chest. Maybe he’s right, and in a way, so are you. You keep waiting to find someone that makes you feel as safe and happy as you are right now.
“I guess you’re right, cause that would mean something is wrong with you.” You say in a jestful manner, tilting your head up to look at him.
“And we know that can’t be true.” His false confidence comes into play quickly. He pinches your nose lightly making you laugh and shake him off.
It’s true Jean hasn’t dated much either. But that’s because at some point, he realized it’s because he already found his person.
“I just, don’t feel wanted.” You know you are, by your friends. But platonic love doesn’t seem like enough. There’s supposed to be more. Why haven’t you found it?
“You are, I promise.” He puts his arms around you as you settle in again. This feels so natural. Why can’t you help him and just see it? Can’t you feel it? You know he terrible in romantic situations. But you don’t know it’s because he can’t stop thinking about you.
Screwing it up with any of them is one thing. But he couldn’t stand himself if he lost you. So he’ll settle for these type of moments. It will sustain him for now. And he hopes that if he never tells you the truth and you never figure it out, that he can somehow move past not having them anymore.
“Hey jerks!” You both jump when your friends Connie and Sasha come in, barging in on your moment. They’ve seen you have many and don’t think much of it. Except wondering when you two are finally going to figure it out. You jokingly make fun of their IQ all the time but there’s something they both know that you both seem to keep missing.
The four of you get set up playing video games and watching movies and blowing up the air mattress so none of you sleep on the floor. You go through snacks and laugh at the movies and each other for hours before calling it a night.
Connie and Jean let you and Sasha have the bed, and you sleep on Jeans side, with the air mattress next to you. At this point you feel his bed is more comfortable than your own, and you know the indents by heart from where he always sleeps on his back.
Being a side sleeper yourself, you give a yawn and look at the clock, thinking no doubt you’re the only one not sleeping.
Checking in you look down and see Jean in his usual sleeping position, head slanted slightly in your direction. You smile to yourself and hold back reaching out to him.
What would you do without all of them, without him? You don’t want to find out. If it was just you together like this forever, you could be happy.
Sleep still won’t come, and the more you think, the more you wonder if you could make Jean happy, not just like this, but how you’ve been wanting for yourself. There’s a reason you feel good with him, right? He knows everything about you, and still wants you. He makes you feel safe, and he-
“Hey, you okay?” Jeans voice is there again. You blink out of your head and realize he’s awake too now, sitting up and reaching out to you like you had thought of before.
His thumb caresses your cheek as he waits. He caught you staring and is concerned.
“Yes, thank you. I just…” What do you say? “Wish you were up here.” Wish he was closer than arms length.
“You wanna come down here? Want me to kick Connie off?” He whispers. He would do it too.
You silently giggle. “No, don’t.” You lean closer to the edge and dangle your hand over the side of the bed.
Jean lays back down, and finds your hand that hovers just above the mattress. It’s a little awkward position, but you both wouldn’t have it any other way, unless you were next to each other.
“You make me happy.” You tell him quietly. You don’t need anyone else. You know why it doesn’t work out with anyone else. You don’t want it to.
“You make me happy, too. More than anyone.” Do you hear it in his voice? That it isn’t just friendship, that he always wants to make you happy?
You think maybe you do, but also think maybe it’s just in your head. There’s no way you’ve both been missing it this whole time, right?
All you know, is that after a few more hand squeezes and shared soft looks, finally you are able to get some sleep.
Thankfully you and Jean have moved much closer to making Connie and Sasha stop trying to hint to you both.
After all, who to make you happier or love you more than your best friend?
an- Originally supposed to end with it being more uncertain of readers feelings but I couldn’t stop myself!
Content: 2.4k words of dad to be Jean worrying maybe a little too much about you and the baby.
a/n- first time with established relationship with Jean! Kind of got away from me but I hope you enjoy anyway :)
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"What are you doing?!" You freeze at hearing your husbands voice ring out. Caught again!
"Nothing! I was just-" You don't even get to finish your sentence before Jean is scooping you up into him arms, off the first step of the little stool and back onto completely solid ground.
"You were just getting off of there!" He says, taking the stool and removing it from the kitchen.
"I was just trying to reach the flour!" You follow him into the living room, explaining yourself.
"I could reach it for you, just ask me." He says, turning back towards you once the stool is far enough away.
"Okay, could you get me the flour?" You mumble, not meeting his gaze.
He hugs you around the waist, petting you hair. "Flour would be for.. baking?" He asks in a way as if you are doing something wrong.
You huff at him. "Of course! I was just going to make a little strawberry dessert!" Just a little something!
"You know you can't have a lot of sugar." He speaks calming and still holds you despite your obvious rising irritation.
"Jean!" You whine at him. "I can't go the entire time without something sweet! And you love strawberries!" You would have preferred a blueberry dessert, but were hoping by making it strawberry, you could talk him into letting you make it.
He smooths your hair back and kisses your head, ignoring the daggers you shoot at him from under your lashes as you look up at him. "I told you, I wouldn't have it if you couldn't have it. And, you can't have it. Not yet." Not even strawberries would entice him.
"You don't let me do anything!" You sigh in defeat and lay your head against his chest, annoyed, but still showing him acceptance and appreciation, knowing that he has your wellbeing in mind.
"I'm going to let you give birth in a couple months." He chuckles, rubbing your belly.
Your mood changes instantly and you grin and hug him for real.
"Yes, a couple more months. A couple more months of not letting me do anything." You say playfully, looking up at him.
"I know. I know." Jean let's out a tiny sigh. "I can't help it. It's our first baby. I've always tried to keep you safe, and now I'm keeping both of you safe. It's stressful." He says, a bit of worry in his voice.
"Honey, nothing is going to happen. But I promise, I won't get on step stools anymore. And I'll keep my sugar intake down, mostly. And I won't go water the plants when it's too hot, and I won't get in the car when Sasha is driving, and-"
He cuts you off with a snort. "I know I can overreact, and I won't promise I'll get better. But you shouldn't let Sasha drive no matter what your condition." You both laugh together.
You both find something to eat and settle down on the couch together and watch a bit of television. You sigh happily and kiss Jeans cheek, who smiles at you. You never really get mad at him, and neither of you can stay annoyed for long.
You try to be understanding. This is your first child, after all. Six months ago a little life had been created and now in three more months they would be here.
Though you've been a bit nervous, overall you've held it together. Children are born every day. There's no reason for any nerves. Your husband, however, is a different story.
Not only is he insistent on listening to your doctors to a tee, he has been reading baby books and perhaps has taken up a bad habit of searching the internet as well. Any little ache or pain you get, any sneeze, any new craving, Jean is right on it. He doesn't let you lift a finger if he can help it. He doesn't let you do anything that could compromise you. Nothing, at all. It's been a lot, and you would possibly kill for something sweet at this point. But you know he has yours and your little ones best interest in mind.
"I'm gonna go out with Connie and Marco for a bit tomorrow, is that okay? I could stay home if you want." He asks you as he puts his empty plate on the coffee table, making you almost laugh.
"Of course you should go, I don't want you stuck with me all the time. Save that for baby." The house to yourself? Even just for a little while? It sounds wonderful.
"Well, it's not stuck babe, but, thanks. Sasha said she'd come stay with you." Though he wouldn't let her drive you around, Sasha could come to the house.
"Honey, I don't need a babysitter." You almost pout. You love Sasha, she's your best friend, but you haven't had a moment to yourself in… months.
Jean takes your almost empty plate of healthy snacks and puts it aside, pulling you to his chest. "I know." He knows he's being silly, but with you, he wouldn't take any chances.
You put your arms around him and close your eyes. "Okay. Okay." You say quietly. Maybe girls day would be nice.
You're only allowed light duty at the moment and are lucky Jean let's you stand long enough to wash the dishes yourself. Though he is never far.
Later in the evening he helps you into the bath and you relax pretty good. You wonder if maybe you can talk Sasha into taking you for a walk in the park tomorrow. If it were up to Jean he'd push YOU around in a stroller. You just want to stretch a bit.
"I love you." He says to you once you're in bed for the evening, after helping you dry your hair. He has you pulled in close and strokes your hair.
"I love you too." You say softly, kissing his mouth lightly and snuggling in close to your sweet, warm lover.
Really, how lucky you are, that you have a husband so caring and loving and involved in the whole process. You would take that and not being allowed to get out of bed yourself over having to do this without a partner.
The next day when Sasha arrives she makes quite the entrance, making you light up.
"Worlds best auntie is here!" She sing songs and pats Jeans arm as she comes in.
"Sasha, please!" Jean tries to settle her down. "Remember what I said." He goes over a few things, like no sugar, making you roll your eyes.
"Yeah, yeah, leave, go, your wifey is fine with me." She comes over to hug you and you giggle.
"Go on you." You agree as you hug Sasha back, then go over to Jean. "I'll be good." You promise him, giving him a kiss before sending him on his way.
To Sasha's credit, she takes very good care of you. Helping clean up and doing whatever you want that's within reason. You do go for a short walk, but it turns out, you get tired fairly quickly and head back sooner than you thought.
Sasha also sneaks you a piece of dark chocolate, and you almost melt as you eat the semi sweet goodness.
"Thank you!" A little walk and a piece of candy and you are magically still in one piece. Perhaps you wouldn't mention some of this to Jean though. Especially when you realize your feet are swelling just a tiny bit.
"Can I feel?" Sasha asks you with wide eyes and an outstretched hand as you both sit on the front porch swing.
"Oh course." You stick your belly out more and smile as Sasha puts her hand on your stomach.
"Are you nervous?" She asks quietly, as if she's going to scare you or the baby.
"About giving birth? Yeah, a little."
And for the next little while you talk about the topic and how you're doing and how Jean is doing and if you're ready, and so on.
"The guys really had to convince him to go out today. He doesn't want to be without you." Sasha tells you.
"Yeah, I know. And it's great, really, though I appreciate you guys helping out. Jean is just so… worried." He kind of always has been anxious over things, it's gotten better over the years, though it's come back strong with the new addition coming.
"You help him through it, you know. He loves you so much." Sasha says of her friend. She's known him a long time and sees how good you've been for him. He deals with things much better thanks to you.
It's not long after that Jean is home and he and Sasha trade off. You say your goodbyes to Sasha and hug your husband.
"How was your day?" You ask as you sit on the couch and put your arms around each other.
"It was nice. I feel good. And, babe, I'm sorry. The guys were telling me to relax a bit, I guess everyone has been. I just want to make sure you're happy and healthy, that's it. I hope I haven't been… intolerable." He says with a grimace, realizing that he's only added to your limitations lately.
"Oh Jean, it's fine. You've been so wonderful. You're taking such good care of me, I feel like the luckiest woman. I know how much you love me, us." You put his hand on your stomach, making him smile and nuzzle you head with his chin.
"So very much, and, I worry, you know… which isn't an excuse really to have been acting like I have." He sounds disappointed in himself, making you give a sad smile.
It's really not been as bad as he's making it out. Nothing about this has been easy for either of you. More so, you've been worried about him, which he suspects, and is part of why he's feeling bad.
"It's okay Jean, really. I do understand and know you've been trying your best for all of us, and it's all I could ask for. And everything is going to be fine."
You feel him squeeze you a little tighter and he let's out a soft, "I know."
"And how was your day?" He asks, helping you off the couch and into the kitchen where he starts making dinner.
As you tell him small details of some of the things you did, you notice he does a slight double take and frowns. You pause, knowing you haven't said anything he should scoff at, so, it must be…
"Your feet are a little swollen. Did you go walking?" He asks, trying not to sound to disapproving.
You actually laugh. "Of course you noticed. Yes, yes, we went for a walk. And you and the doctors were right, I didn't get very far. But it was nice to do it anyway." You tell him, and he hears the satisfaction in your voice.
Almost done making dinner, he comes over and leans in to kiss your cheek. "Good. I'll rub your feet later."
Your smile brightens and you hug him, whispering. "I also had a piece of chocolate." You kind of broke your promise, but it really was a tiny piece.
Jean chuckles and holds your cheeks, looking into your eyes. "I'm glad. As long as you enjoyed it. Cause that's all you're getting for a while." He says teasingly and you both laugh together as you continue your evening.
The next few months go by faster than you can imagine. Jean is still very protective but tries to let you indulge sometimes.
Before you know it, a healthy baby boy is born, and you become the most happy, doting parents on the planet. Any tiny cry or cough and you are both right there. How Jean has been acting and treating you, you understand more than ever now.
Jean is still the more anxious one. He's ready to call the doctor over anything new or unexpected, no matter how small. He tries to be more calm so it doesn't affect you or the baby. He's been making pretty good strides the last few months.
"Honey, I think you can put him down now." You say one night, standing in the nursery, after finally getting him to sleep.
"I'm never putting him down." Jean says in the most sweet voice you've ever heard from him as he looks down at your sleeping son. This is not nerves but love, and happiness.
It warms your heart and you rest your head on Jeans shoulder, stroking your babies hand gently. "Our boy." You smile, and soon find yourself back in your bedroom with baby resting on Jeans chest as he sits up in bed.
"You can't sleep like that." You remind him that it's safer for him to sleep in his crib, earning a soft grunt from Jean.
"Just a little while longer." He says, pulling you close once you're in bed too.
"You're doing such a great job, daddy." You tell him, snuggling against his side, enjoying the quiet evening with your two loves.
"So are you, mommy. I couldn't do this without you" He kisses your head.
"Me neither." You whisper, making sure he knows how much you need him.
The three of you cuddle for a while until finally putting baby back in his crib.
"Maybe we can just put the crib in our room." Jean says as you leave the nursery, making you giggle.
You do not put the crib in your room, and your little one is right there, safe and sound in the morning, and every morning thereafter.
It takes more practice, on both your parts, but most anxiety of raising a child turns into positivity and creativity over time. There's still bumps as he grows and gets older and everyone experiences new and different feeling and emotions. There are highs and lows like doctor visits, losing a tooth, throwing tantrums, making friends, birthday parties, getting good grades in school, and sometimes not so good ones.
It all comes up again when baby number is announced, but the joy and love outweigh any nerves, as you and Jean look forward to meeting another new little life, ready to do it all over again, and give your son a sibling.
"And I promise, not to ban chocolate." He gives his word, and keeps it. This time around, both of you don't feel like novices anymore.
Though, you don't think you've ever seen quite the look on Jeans face when you find out this one's going to be a girl.
Content: 2.2k words of letting go of false feelings when someone shows you true ones.
a/n- a product of sudden inspiration while listening to a song on repeat and my wifi going out. Yay :) Start with this version, end with this one!
Credit to @jayteacups for the divider!
Sliding into the corner booth, here you are again.
Another night. Another night of self loathing. Watching them dance with each other, watching the one you want, not dancing with you.
But it was never going to be you. It was in your head.
But that doesn't make it hurt less.
At one time you thought there was a chance. It seemed like it, anyway.
"Hey." You hear a soft voice just over the music.
Blinking you look over to see your friend slip into the booth next to you.
"What are you doing?" He asks, but really, he knows. He wants you to stop it.
You shrug and look back out and feel your heart hurt as you watch them share a tender moment right there in front of everyone.
"Don't do this to yourself." He begs. He can't stand it.
"I…" You trail off. "I'm done." You look away and lock eyes with Jean. "I'm done." You say more confidently.
He searches your eyes to be sure.
But it's true. This is the last time you are willing to let yourself feel this way.
"Wanna, get out of here then?" He asks gently, like he might scare you.
And he almost does. "I don't know if we should, together." You admit some doubt.
"Why? You think…you think something, that I would…" He can't even form a sentence to respond.
"I don't know what I think. I just know I could be better, and don't want to make you, make anyone…" You turn away in shame.
You trust him completely, but tonight you are emotional, and don't know if you trust yourself not to do something that could lead to something else.
Because if it can't be with the one you want, you might want it to be with someone.
"I wouldn't." He insists, trying not to be offended by your thoughts, knowing you're not thinking straight. "Come on."
He takes your arm and you let him lead you away, neither of you looking back.
It's not far to your destination, so you walk, the cool breeze making it a little easier to breathe.
"Jean." You say his name faintly.
"What?" You feel him tense against his will.
"Don't be mad." You ask of him, leaning further into him as you walk.
"I'm not." He promises.
And it's true. He's not, not really. He's mad that you're pining over some idiot who while has been kind to you has, lead you to believe there could be something more, only to drop a pile of bricks on that dream.
It's not their fault, they can't help who they love. But it hurts him to see you suffer.
Jean lets you go to unlock the front door so you can both stumble in.
Both of you have had a drink or two, you can't quite remember. But it hasn't been so bad that you couldn't make it back to his place, so you'll probably make decent decisions, you hope.
He gets you settled on his couch and pours a glass of water for you, watching you to make sure you drink the whole thing while he has a glass too.
"Thank you." You look up at him as you hand the glass back.
"You're okay." It isn't a question. You are okay, he'll make sure of that, just like always. "You'll stay here." He doesn't give you an option. He doesn't want you to be left alone.
You nod and lean back against the couch as Jean disappears, going to get you something to sleep in.
He returns and you stand without thinking you stand and start to strip right there and he respectfully turns around.
When you're done you reach out and touch his shoulder and he feels tingles down his spine at your light touch.
Turning to you, you both lock eyes. Jeans mouth parts but he doesn't know if now is the right time to tell you.
Then you make the decision for him and step forward. Dropping your daytime clothes on the couch, you wrap your arms around his waist and rest your head on his chest.
He gulps. "I'm sorry." He says, smoothing your hair with one hand, the other going around you.
"I'm okay." Something finally clicked for you tonight. It's hard to say what, but you don't worry too much about that. After watching them together for another time your brain finally said, enough, and you agreed.
"I know what it's like." Jean starts, terrified.
You pull back but keep each other in hold.
"To watch someone you want to be with, want to be with someone else." He leaves this open. Please, don't freak out. He doesn't think you will, but maybe so.
"Oh. You mean, them." The other person, the one your person is dancing with. You know Jeans been watching them too.
But you are only confused when he shakes his head. "No. Not them." Maybe at one time, a long time ago, before you.
You raise an eyebrow, and suddenly gasp and pull back with realization, no more alcohol in your system.
"Jean." You put your hands up to you mouth.
You're so stupid. So, so, so…
"It's okay." He says to you, keeping his hands to himself as you work this out.
You shake your head and tears form.
Somewhere in the back of your mind you knew it. It's been there for a while. If your unreturned feelings would've stopped trying to take over, you would have seen what was right in front of you.
You collapse onto the couch, covering your eyes with your hands as you sob quietly.
Jean doesn't know if he should sit next to you. Are you crying because you're still emotional, or…?
"I don't want to make you feel like you're a second choice." You manage to say.
He's not. He never was. It's just terrible timing and your heart and mind playing tricks.
"I…won't feel that way." He says honestly as he eases onto the couch as far from you as possible.
He understands the way this works. You had no control over it. Neither does he. At some point he moved on faster than you had, and he isn't going to hold that against you.
Not even if it still doesn't end up how he wants it to.
"Can I, stay with you?" You ask with teary doe eyes. You don't want to be alone, and trust that no matter what you say or do, he will always respect your boundaries.
Jean thinks. This could mean a lot of things, but at least you want to be with him.
He nods and stands up, holding out a hand to help you up as well.
A few minutes later he's undressed as well and you're both under his bedsheets, laying on your backs, heads on separate pillows. For the first time, it feels a little tense.
"Come here." You instruct him closer to you, because you don't know if you can move.
He stays stationary, except for turning his head towards you, which makes you do the same.
"You're too far away." You tell him, reaching out.
He allows your hand to find his and lets your fingers intertwine.
"I told you, I'm not gonna do anything." He reminds you.
"Do you, want to?" You question, heart speeding up.
"Tomorrow." He answers, eyes never leaving yours. Even in the darkness you can see his honey colored irises on you.
He wants to make sure you will still feel the same in the morning.
Without warning you've pushed yourself up and are hovering over him, making his eyes widen.
"You're not a second choice." You remind him, voice almost harsh.
He gives a slight nod. "I know." With his free hand he lightly touches your cheek.
"What if I want you to kiss me?" You push further. You're in your right mind. You're sure of it.
"Tomorrow." He repeats, moving his hand to your collarbone, preventing you from leaning in.
Neither of you budge as you continue to assess the situation and your muscles finally become weak from holding yourself up.
You take your hand back and Jean lowers the one on your chest and you heave yourself back to your own side.
"You better, better kiss me tomorrow." Your voice wavers.
Jean looks over to you again. "I will. If that's what you want." He promises. It's taken everything he has to not press his lips to yours tonight.
You turn away from him and he can tell you're back to overthinking, your breathing never steady.
But at least now you're thinking of him. And tomorrow.
He finally does as you asked of him before and scoots closer, putting an arm around you. It's not the first time he's held you while you've slept, so this doesn't necessarily feel like breaking the rules.
You sigh contently and he can feel you settle.
You put your arm on top of his, running your fingers across his skin multiple times.
You want to tell him he will always be our first choice. But you're angry with yourself for not seeing it sooner.
But in a lifetime where it is very possible to fall in love more than once, that doesn't mean you loved either person any less.
It's an interesting sleep, full of both dreams and what feel like nightmares, but you are pulled out of them when you feel a gentle tug around your middle, and a soft "you're okay" before falling back to sleep.
In the morning you are alone in the bed and sit up slowly.
Your head hurts but it is not from any drink or the response to closing a chapter in your life.
All your mind can and has been thinking of is Jean, and you think you physically ache now that he is not with you.
You make your way to the bathroom and take a moment, wiping your face with a cool rag before going to find Jean in the kitchen, making breakfast.
It's something he always does for you, and yet it feels different.
You've been wandering so quiet he hasn't heard you come in. Partly due to the soft playing music he's put on to hum along to and make sure doesn't disturb your slumber.
"Morning." You say softly so as not to startle him as you come to stand beside him.
He smiles and looks at you. "Morning. Sleep okay?" He hopes you did a little besides tossing and turning.
You shrug. "I think I will from now on." It feels like you will.
You look up at him expectantly but he looks away, flipping the pancakes once more.
"Almost done." He says proudly. Ready just as you woke up.
You frown. "You promised." You whisper.
After another minute he shuts the stove off and plates breakfast for you both.
"What are you doing?" He chuckles as he turns to put the spatula in the sink but you block him.
"Dance with me." There's a song playing now that makes you want to. More than any time in a long while.
He smiles and flings the spatula into the sink and puts his arms around you, leading you a couple feet from the hot stove.
Finally with his arms around you, you think your headache lessens.
"Look at you, dancing." He's happy you are, and that it's with him.
The music is upbeat but you move slow together, and that's fine with both of you.
"I was always going to." Even if it was on your own. But, you like this option just as much.
Jean squeezes your sides. He never doubted that for a second. Even if it's taken you longer than he would have liked.
The way he beams down at you, like you will always be his first choice. You don't want it to end.
Your hands move up his arms, his neck, to hold his cheeks, and you stop moving.
"You promised." You say as you pull him down closer to you. "And I want you to kiss me."
And then your headache is replaced by butterflies in your stomach as he complies with your orders and your lips finally meet.
You thank your lucky stars that he doesn't hold it against you for taking longer to realize it's supposed to be him and you forever.
Whatever those other feelings were, as real as they felt, it was some sort of false attraction. But you're no longer upset that they got in the way, because at least, here you are now.
"Breakfast. Don't want it to get cold." Jean says against your lips, trying to catch his breath.
You smile and lean in for a few more pecks.
"Be careful there, I might expect this every morning." You say as you release him and take your plate to sit at the table.
Jean watches you, sitting there in his clothes, at his kitchen table, eating the food he prepared.
Oh, you have no idea. "That won't be a problem." He says as he sits down across from you.
Because nothing will ever be just his anymore, but yours, too.
Content: 6.5k words. You and Eren are dared to date each other for a day. This is how it goes.
a/n- wow I didn't mean to write this much! I hope it's okay! Some songs later on near spots that were already written and edited for this. Also, this is mainly a friendship fic!
This song here is not required and added last minute cause I was feeling it!
"Cut it out and just come in already!"
You jump awake at hearing Sasha, your roommate, yelling at whoever is knocking on your dorm door.
With that the door opens and you turn and wipe the sleep from your eyes, finding Eren sitting on your bed grinning.
"Morning." He says, ruffling your bedhead.
You smile. "Hey."
"Is that any way to greet your boyfriend?" He wiggles his eyebrows, making you laugh.
Eren ignores the muffled threats coming from Sasha from her bed across the room. She does not like being awoken early.
"It's going to be a great day." He tries to pull the covers away from you, which you latch onto.
"Eren!" You're still in sleep clothes, after all.
"What, you naked under there?" He eyes you suspiciously.
"No!"
"Well, it's not like I've never seen you in PJs." Just last night, in fact.
"Stop, it's too early." Sasha complains.
"Get dressed, let's go get breakfast." Eren says to you, ignoring Sasha, who pops her head up.
"Breakfast?" That would do it.
"Not for you." Eren rolls his eyes, giving a soft look when you reach up to touch his face.
"Our first breakfast together." You joke.
"It's customary for the guy dating someone to get breakfast for her best friend, too." Sasha tells Eren.
"When I'm dating a girl, I'm her best friend."
Eren takes your extra pillow and throws it at Sasha, who glares and goes to throw it back.
"Stop!" You say, but you're laughing.
Sasha huffs. "Annoying. Remind me how this happened again?"
Eren looks at you again, leans in to kiss your cheek and stands up. "I'll let you tell her. Meet me in a few, okay?"
Less than 12 hours ago, and late into the night, the university friends were playing social games together, things like truth or dare.
Most everyone had known each other since middle school. You joined up with them later in high school, but are now considered part of the group, just like everyone else.
Everyone is friends, you and Sasha best friends, Jean just after her. Armin and Connie are always good to you. Historia is nice to everyone, therefore her girlfriend Ymir tries her best to be friendly, sometimes. Others also took a little longer to warm up to you, like Mikasa and Annie.
And there's Eren, who you always have good conversations with, and who purposely tries to flirt with you to annoy Jean.
After a bunch of rounds of truth or dare, everyone at some point getting embarrassed by different confessions or tasks they were dared to do, Connie finally dared you and Eren into the 24 hour relationship challenge.
All it is, really, is where you act like a couple for the whole day. You hadn't done one yet, but Eren and most of the others had. It's basically how Armin and Annie got together.
"I'm going to kill Connie." Sasha says as you both get dressed.
You shrug. "I'm just going to have fun with it."
"At least it ends in 24 hours." Sasha guesses she can stand it for that long. Not that she minds Eren, just the thought of you being mushy with each other is very strange and bound to cause some tension between everyone.
The two of you finish dressing and agree you will see each other later in the day.
On your way down the stairs, you hear your name being called.
"Morning!" Jean comes jogging up to you.
"Hey." You smile and pat his shoulder.
"So, Armin knows of this place that just opened that has a breakfast buffet and..." He trails off when you raise an eyebrow.
"I'm going to eat with Eren." You tell him. Usually you are all together or venture off in smaller groups but you and Eren really never eat alone.
"Crap, you're really going through with this?" Jean doesn't care for this. Erens going to piss him off more than usual.
You laugh. "It's just for one day! Then everything will be normal, I'll be your friend, I'll be Erens friend, and you can have your silly rivalry back."
Now that they're older, they really didn't hate each other, just like to push each others buttons.
"But until then-" You get cut off by Eren suddenly standing beside you two at the bottom of the stairs.
"But until then, she's my girlfriend." Eren gives a smile and wave to Jean, takes your hand and leads you away.
"Be nice." You say loud enough for them both to hear, leaving Jean shaking his head as you go off in another direction.
You walk off campus together to a quiet coffee shop and get a variety of pastries and breakfast sandwiches and sit in a corner booth.
"Thanks Eren." You smile in between bites.
"Now that we're dating, that's not my name." He tells you.
"Oh? Then what am I supposed to call you today?" You wonder.
He shrugs. "I don't know, but you better think of something good."
"Uh-huh. Anyway, what are we doing today?" Truth be told this is pretty new for you.
"Anything you want, babydoll." He says with a grin. He's got your nickname all picked out.
Your eyes widen a bit, not expecting it. You smile a little and look away, laughing some.
"Too much?" Eren asks, reaching over and thumbing your cheek, which is a little red.
"It's kind of weird, but I guess I can stand it for one day."
You always stick to each others names and really only get flirty as silly banter, nothing too considerable. It's really not much more than you do with the rest of the group. Of course Eren always amps it up to get a reaction out of others, but he's never done anything to make you uncomfortable. Not that he is now, this is just, different.
Eren is one of the ones you know you can have a late night conversation with. Nothing is off the table for you two to talk about, it's always comfortable and easy going, and you've never been worried it meant more than just being good friends. You feel like today is maybe just another layer in your friendship.
While you talk and eat and plan for more activities together, both your phones start blowing up.
"Apparently we're supposed to document?" That's the rule, it seems.
Ymir and Connie want pictures, Sasha and Jean do not. Everyone else is indifferent.
"Yeah, they'll be sending questions too, like, how we got together and so on." You will have to make up answers as you go.
Eren motions for you to come to his side of the booth to take your first photo of the day. He snaps one with his arm around you and then leans in for another kiss on the cheek. Your smile gets wider between the two.
"Look at you, starting trouble." You grin as he shares the pictures.
"No I'm not." He insists.
The reactions vary from supportive about how cute you are from Armin and Historia to gasping from Connie and Mikasa and gagging emojis from Jean and Annie.
"Besides, we're doing a lot worse than this." He tenses when he realizes how that comes out but you don't mind.
"Is that so?" Your eyes tell him all is well. He's got his hair tied back as usual and you reach up and tug on his hair.
"Think you're getting ahead of yourself, honeybun."
Eren slowly breaks out into a goofy smile and covers his mouth with his palm, actually embarrassed for you.
As you laugh together and finish eating, you know this is going to be a good day.
You continue walking around off campus to local shops and buy a few things while taking a couple pictures and getting another quick snack. The only thing that makes this all different is Eren will put his arm around you and at one point takes your hand.
"This okay?" He asks with a squeeze to make sure.
"Yeah." You promise him. It's what you're supposed to do today, after all.
He buys you a few small items and carries them with his free hand as you head back.
"Thanks Eren. I'll pay you back." But he won't hear of it.
"There you guys are!" Historia spots you first as most of the gang is sitting in the main common area on campus watching tv.
She and Ymir are sitting on the chair, Mikasa, Armin and Annie on the couch, Sasha sprawled out onto the floor.
"Where's Connie and Jean?" You ask.
Sasha gives a knowing look to Eren. "Helping professor Ackerman set up the projectors in the lecture hall for-"
"Oh no! I completely forgot!" Eren had been recruited to help but lost track of time with you. "Ugh, I gotta go." He's incredibly late, and knows the professor is going to let him have it.
You giggle. "Awe, okay. See you in a bit."
Eren pecks your lips and runs off while you sit on the floor next to Sasha.
"So, day is going well, it seems." Annie chimes in, which gets you all talking.
It's not a secret that you and Eren get along, you're just being a little more affectionate than usual.
"I hope this doesn't bug you." You say quietly to Mikasa when you have a moment. You know her and Eren have a complicated history.
She shrugs. "Don't worry about it." A few years ago she would have been fuming. But now most of the feelings she used to carry for Eren lay dormant.
You continue to lounge around, some of the group departing, and it's lunch time when you see the three boys again.
"Well, I'm in trouble." Eren rolls his eyes and helps you stand up so you can take a seat together where Ymir and Historia had been.
"Ackerman was pissed. Erens got yard duty in the morning." Connie laughs at his friends misfortune.
"I'm sorry." You frown and take Erens hand.
"Yeah. All your fault." He says playfully, leaning in to bump your nose with his.
"Please stop. I'm about to barf and haven't even had lunch yet." Jean still cannot get on board with this.
"It's actually kind of cute." Annie says next to Armin, who nods.
"Don't turn to the dark side!" Sasha complains, siding with Jean.
"You're are going to have to deal, cause me and this doll here, are going on a picnic." Eren gives you a smile.
"Got a couple things to grab and I'll meet you outside." He says as you both get up.
"A picnic? Sounds great, honeybun." You both grin at the reaction from the others over this nickname.
"I want my best friend back." Jean says dryly.
"Dude, I'm right here." Connie smacks Jeans arm, making Jean roll his eyes as the two and Sasha head off to find something to eat.
"Come on Mikasa." Annie motions and the two girls head off as well.
"So, just for fun, you guys want to go out later?" Armin asks you and Eren.
"That sounds great." Eren says.
"Yes!" You agree.
You wave bye to Armin and soon are outside on the lawn with Eren.
"These are from the mess hall. I think it'll do though." After getting lectured by professor Ackerman, Eren hadn't had time to plan much else.
"Totally. This is really nice!" You appreciate how thoughtful he's being.
You eat and talk and lay down together on the blanket and watch the clouds.
"So, is this the nicest picnic date you've ever had?" Eren asks.
"It's the only picnic date I've ever had." You say while still looking up.
You feel Erens eyes on you and know he's putting things together.
"Say, you've never really dated before, have you? I never even realized it." He's not sure how, maybe it's because he just expects you all to always be together.
"I mean, I've had offers. I just, there's more important things going on in my life. Look, don't make fun-" You turn to look at him and he's shaking his head shushing you, reaching over to pat your cheek.
"No, no. I'm not making fun. I know people are interested in you. Pretty sure I scared one of them off one time." Dude was sketch and Eren and Jean agreed that wasn't happening and teamed up to put an end to it before it even started.
"I mean, I've never really put myself out there." Once you found your friend group you were pretty content.
"How come?" Eren asks, turning towards you and propping his head up.
"I...don't know." Not really. You don't know how to answer this. You've been out separately with Jean, Sasha and Connie, but it's always felt like just hanging out, even though the word date gets thrown around as a joke.
"That's okay. You don't need a relationship to be happy." After a few failed attempts at some himself, he knows that now. "It'll happen. You know, if that's what you want. You got us in the meantime." Eren says this in a way that you know he's not judging.
"You know, I can't believe we haven't talked about this before." Eren says since you're still quiet. That's the thing that amazes him most. All the topics you've gone through and this hasn't really come up.
"I guess cause there's not much to talk about. For me, at least."
"Well, I'm happy to be your first, whatever this is." He scoots closer to you and you hold each others gaze.
"Can I...?" He trails off. He realizes his earlier actions might not have been something you're okay with.
But you nod, just barely, and he gives a couple short pecks to your lips. More than before, still nothing too intimate.
Truthfully you've done worse with basically everyone during your game nights.
And yet, still, this feels a little different.
You go about the afternoon together, seeing your friends at different times, continuing to text in the group chat.
Questions range from your favorite activity together (movie marathons and arcades) to how many kids you have (turns out you're dog parents).
Anytime Jean tries to start talking to you about anything Eren brushes him off. It makes him smirk to see Jean so annoyed. And today, you side with him only.
"Would you stop being such a jerk?" You demand from Eren when Jean storms off again.
"No." Eren shakes his head.
Soon Historia and Mikasa are helping you get ready to go out for the night.
Historia gushes over you two and the pictures you've included in the chat. "Your picnic was adorable!" She says, helping you tie your hair back.
"Yeah, we're having fun!" You smile and hope that when and if you do find someone one day, that there's a little bit of what you've had today in it.
As you finish up Mikasa again assures you everything is good between you and to continue having fun.
You go to find Annie and walk over to the boys room.
Eren whistles when he sees you. "Wow." You've all dressed up nice but still fairly casual.
Eren looks good with his own hair back tied a little lower than normal and dark clothing.
"Wow yourself." You give him a hug, say hello to Armin who is complimenting Annie, and head out to dinner.
Eren is sure he remembers you talking once about old fashion customs and orders for you at the restaurant.
It's actually pretty cute that he's been pulling your chair out and holding your hand across the table. You don't bother with documenting with your phones and instead focus on each other.
Getting a little pampering is nice and you could get used to it.
The four of you talk like you always do, and things feel cozy.
You and Annie bring up a topic the guys can't follow so they talk amongst themselves. Annie has become someone you look to and go to for advice. While she has her bouts of enjoyment with everyone, she also always looks out for your well-being.
After dinner you get into Erens car, sitting in the front with him with Armin and Annie in back on the way to go dancing.
You look over at him a few times and he finally catches you. You share a look of fondness and he pats your knee and gives it a squeeze at a red light.
"Having a good time?" He wants to be sure.
"I really am."
Once at the club everyone gets carded and Eren sneaks you your own fruity drink since you are just under legal age. One is enough for you.
The music is making you feel alive and want to move. You pull Annie out on the floor and the boys join you for a couple songs after finishing their drinks. You switch off for a bit, dancing with Armin and Eren as well, then back with just Annie as the two males go take another break at the bar.
Something like this is rare for you and turns out it's quite fun.
"It's awesome to see them getting along so well now." Eren is happy about that.
"Yeah, Annies really come around. Not that I'm surprised." Armin knows that even if his love can be aloof, she cares very much about her friends. Sometimes it just takes her a while to open up. But she does.
They watch as you laugh and dance with Annie, arms around each other, Annie kissing your nose, you playfully pinching her cheek.
Eren takes one more swig of his drink before setting it down and pushing it towards Armin, indicating he's finished. He then heads out onto the dance floor.
"Hey ladies. Annie, mind if I cut in?" You two have been getting eyed by some of the males around.
"Sure, I could sit this one out." She briefly touches your shoulder before going to the bar with Armin.
"Hey babydoll." Eren puts his arms around you. "You sure are attracting a lot of attention." You seem unaware.
"Really?" You're having so much fun you didn't realize.
"I mean, you are pretty hot." He grins.
You roll your eyes and move with him. "Only a little while longer of that, honeybun."
"I gotta get it in while I can." He laughs as you smile at him.
You finish the current song and most of the next, Erens arms or hands always somewhere on you.
You then turn away from him and back in as close as you can get, earning a growl from him.
"Really?" He says in your ear, hands moving down your sides, the touch making you giggle.
You can see now that you're both definitely getting stares, both from men and women.
"Looks like I'm not the only hottie out here." You wiggle your eyebrows.
"Mmm. Too bad I'm not interested." He places a kiss on the back of your neck then frees your hair by pulling out the hair tie that was most the way dislodged anyway, putting it around his own wrist.
You turn back towards him. "What are you doing?" You ask playfully.
"Making them jealous." He leans in and you pull away.
"Eren, stop." You're almost whispering the warning, but still smiling.
"No." He mouths, shaking his head slowly. One hand on the back of your head, the other holding your cheek, he pecks your lips more than once, lingering longer each time. This is not quite as chaste as the afternoon picnic kisses.
You continue dancing, eyes constantly on each other, bare skin touching throughout. You let the atmosphere take over and lift your heels to kiss his jaw. He helps you stay up and tilts his head down to kiss your lips again.
Annie and Armin soon make their way back out, Annie snapping a picture of the two of you since you aren't sending your own in the group chat.
"You guys are smoking." Even she and Armin can't keep their eyes off you. "Come on, one more." One last picture.
"Annie, don't you think there's enough-" You turn to complain but are made quiet when Eren lifts your chin with his fingers and leans down to press your lips together again.
"See, not that hard." Annies long taken the photo before you two finally pull away.
"How are you possibly going to break up?" Armin asks. Earlier today he didn't think much of it, but the night is turning out much different.
"He's cheating on me." You joke, moving to dance in between the two blondes.
Erens mouth drops open. "I would never!"
You laugh, putting your arms around Armins neck, Annies on your waist, Armins on top on Annies.
Just last year you never would've been allowed in this position. But that's how comfortable you've all become with each other.
"Now that's hot." Eren snaps his own picture, dancing behind Annie.
It doesn't take long before other unwanted guests try to cut their way in, you collectively declining all of them.
The boys let it be known no one else is welcome, hold on you girls tightening, Annies icy stare enough to send others away.
Eren soon pulls you out of formation so it was just the two of you again.
The new song allows you to slow down, so you sway together, putting your head on Erens chest.
"Having fun?" He makes sure.
"Of course." You nod. "I'm just sorry you have to get up early." You pull back.
Eren groans. "Yeah, that. I always seem to get in trouble cause of you." He jokes.
"Nuh-uh." You disagree.
"It's okay, it's worth it." He knows he just gets himself in trouble.
"Thanks for today. This has been the best 24 hour relationship ever." You both chuckle.
"You're welcome babydoll. Me too." Better than some of his long term relationships, in fact.
"We still got questions to answer. My phone's been buzzing."
"And pictures to upload." You still have to document, after all.
You suddenly poke his chest. "You stop trying to cause drama!"
"I'm not the one taking some of these photos, you know."
"It's still your fault." Annie can't take pictures of you kissing if Eren weren't kissing you.
Eren grins. Maybe he's still trying to get a reaction from some of the others, maybe he just likes kissing you. Maybe both.
"Hey, they want to know what we're doing. It's all in good fun."
The next song has everyone moving again, but Erens arms around you keep your movements relaxed.
Staring into your eyes, he mouths "you're beautiful", removing one arm to let the back of his fingers stroke your cheek.
This is finally the move that has you blush some. You mouth "thank you", putting your head back on his chest, arms locked behind him.
Soon Armin checks the time and everyone agrees to head back to the dorms. You and Annie hit the bathroom first.
"Everything cool?" Armin asks.
"Yeah." Eren nods. "Uh, you wanna drive?"
"Sure." Armin takes the keys from his friend.
The four of you leave the club, the guys gripping their respective dates hands on the way out.
Eren holds the back door open for you and piles in after, making you have to move to the middle.
After buckling in Eren adjusts so he can lean into you, arm around the front of your waist.
"Ymir wants to know if we slept together yet." You roll her eyes at the group chat. All pictures have been uploaded. Most are still shipping you two, Mikasa and Sasha maybe indifferent, Jean still disgusted.
"Well, you can mess with them and say yes, if you want to sleep over." He side eyes you.
You just look down at your phone. "You want me too?" You ask after a few moments.
He shrugs. "Only if you want. I don't want it to be uncomfortable, but it might be nice." Sometimes he does want someone to spoon with.
Everything is quiet while you respond to comments, some silly, some serious.
"Damn, you guys are having a good time." Connie texts.
"Thank you this night is almost over!" Jean is sick of these pictures.
"My poor baby getting corrupted!" Sasha cries.
"Please, like you haven't done much worse." Ymir says, getting an angel smiley from Sasha.
Between all your social games and being roomies, Sasha is one of your favorite cuddle buddies.
"Historia wants to know if this is the best 24 hours you've done." Since you've never done one, this is directed at Eren.
"Put yes, obviously." Erens eyes close, trying to stay snug against you.
"How many have you done?" You want to know.
"A few."
"A lot." Armin says from the front.
"Well, like how many?"
"I don't know. Most everyone in the group."
"Armin included." Annie adds.
You giggle at the thought of the two acting anything like you and Eren have today.
"Probably over ten if you include people not even in the inner circle."
"You mean I'm just a number?"
"Can you stop, please?" Eren asks, getting annoyed. It's not his fault everyone always picks on him. He doesn't want you to think bad of him.
"Sorry babe, guess you were right. He's a cheater." Annie chuckles, Armin putting a hand over hers. They go back to their own conversation in the front now that they'd have their fun.
"I can't sleep with you Eren."
He pushes himself off you. "I already told you you're my favorite." Then he sees you smirking. "You're messing with me, aren't you?"
"You make it so easy sometimes." You find his hand and interlock your fingers, showing everything is fine.
Eren huffs and leans back in his seat, still finding himself smiling.
After a little silence, he reaches out his free hand and strokes your arm. "You wanna get some food before we head in?" There wouldn't really be any options on campus this late and he didn't have much besides candy in his fridge.
You look over at him and shake your head. "I'm good, we had a late dinner. But thanks."
Eren nods. "Okay." He leaves his hand where it is and rests his head on your shoulder.
After getting to the dorms you head to the main common room, Armin and Annie deciding to stay up a while longer. You thank both of them for today before going to grab a water bottle from one of the mini fridges.
"We might have some company tonight." Eren tells Armin. It still hasn't been decided.
"Man, you're gonna get in trouble." Armin insists.
"You and Annie get together all the time! What's the difference?"
"A lot. I'm just saying."
"Nothing's gonna happen." That isn't why he offered and is pretty sure you and he are on the same page.
"Okay. Just be careful." Armin trusts his friends word.
Soon you follow behind Eren towards the rooms, still sipping on water.
"Hey, I wanna rinse off." You pause by the girls shower.
"Like, together?" He asks with a suggestive smile.
"No!" You laugh. "I just, smell like smoke and alcohol, and sweat." You scrunch your nose.
"Sounds pretty sexy."
"Oh my God!" You shove him lightly. "Can I just have my hair tie?"
Instead of giving yours back, Eren takes his own out of his hair. "Trade ya." Then he uses yours to put his hair back up.
"Weirdo." You take the one offered and hand your bottle to him. "Bring me something to sleep in."
"You gonna stay with me?"
"Can I?" Falling asleep with him doesn't sound like a terrible way to end the day.
"Of course. I'll clean off too." You separate and Eren goes to his room to grab something for both of you before taking a quick rinse.
Changing into his normal t-shirt and boxers he knocks on the girls door. He's pretty such no one else is in there this late but doesn't want to barge in.
Wrapped in a towel, you open the door and reach out to take the clothing. "Be out in a second."
Eren grins when you come out. "You are so adorable in my clothes." You both leave your hair down, saving each others hair ties around your wrist.
Needless to say his clothes do not fit, and you have to adjust the sleep pants just to able to walk.
"You and your words tonight." Hot, beautiful, sexy, adorable.
"I got more." He says as you go to his room.
"Where's that sweet guy I like so much?"
"Is it too much?"
"I told you, I don't mind." This would be ending soon.
You leave your shoes by the door and grab back the water Eren had put on his desk.
"Jeans still so pissed." Eren grins and leans back against his headboard while playing with his phone.
"You better enjoy this cause tomorrow I'm not letting you be mean to him anymore."
"Oh I am, don't worry. Hey, what's our honeymoon destination?" Questions are still coming in.
"Uh, Hawaii? Who the heck is still on?" It's pretty late.
"Most of them." He laughs and continues answering.
You look at you own phone and see Sasha ask when you'll be back. "I won't?" Is your answer, messages suddenly popping up quicker from everyone.
You stand beside the bed, suddenly a bit unsure.
"There's room." Eren says, looking up after seeing your response. But you just stand there sipping water.
"You don't have to stay." Eren puts his phone down, ignoring everyone else.
"No, I want to." He waits for more. "I just, don't know how to do this, I guess. Since I, never really have." You're not counting Sasha. And here you are, outing yourself and lack of certain experiences even more.
Eren pulls his blanket down and reaches his arms out. "Get over here." He tells you. With all your talks in the past, and today, he's more aware of your position.
You put your bottle and phone on the nightstand and fall into him, settling onto his chest, his arms wrapping around you.
"Thanks Eren." You give a long sigh, feeling very at ease with him.
He lets thoughts overtake him, and you feel his mood shift slightly.
"What's wrong?" You pull back to look at him.
He hesitates a moment. "Just, please tell me if I ever take things to far." He'd been pretty handsy earlier and while you didn't exactly shy away or give off the impression you were uncomfortable, he isn't always sure you know when to speak up.
You shake your head. "Tonight? No, not at all. I had so much fun."
Eren gives a small smile. It did certainly seem like you enjoyed yourself.
"I feel safe with you."
Eren forms a tight grip around you. That's all he wants to hear.
He reaches over to turn the light out and kisses your temple before settling down on the pillow with you. Your eyes get heavier as Eren gently strokes his fingers along the back of your hand that's resting by his chest. Sometimes he moves to draw lines on your arm, making you shiver at the sensation.
Armin finally comes in, giving a quick wave before turning his fan on, throwing his shirt in the corner and passing out nearly right away, not bothered by anything going on on the other side of the room.
"You need to get some sleep." You tell Eren.
"I know. All your fault." He smiles at your tired giggle.
"I didn't do anything." You insist.
"Let's take one more picture." Eren wants to end this night on a fun note.
It's clear you're in his bed, Eren grinning, arm around you, while you're only half visible as you hide in his side.
"My cuddle bunny." His phone then goes on the nightstand, ignoring the notifications that would no doubt start popping up soon.
"Trouble maker." You turn so your back is to Eren who wraps around you again, holding you close.
"I don't know what you're talking about."
"This is nice." You're very content not to move.
"That's how it's supposed to be."
"I had a really good day." You couldn't stay awake much longer.
"Same. Makes me very happy to hear that."
"Thank you." You whisper.
He squeezes you gently. "You're welcome. Night."
You're already sleeping.
-----
You swear you've just fallen asleep when you feel something wake you.
"Eren?" He's sitting on the bed, leaning over you, rubbing your cheeks softly.
"Shh. Armins still sleeping."
You blink your eyes a few times. The shades are still closed and hiding most of the morning sky. You can see he's already dressed.
"Where are you going?"
"Gotta go take my punishment." He chuckles.
"But you're so warm." You try to pull him towards you but he resists.
"I got you another blanket." He grabbed it from the closet, already knowing this was coming. He reaches for it and unfolds it, tucking it around you.
"This will do." You say with a yawn.
"So, as much as it pains me to say this, we should break up." 24 hours is all but gone.
You frown. "Yeah, I know. We can still be friends." You joke.
He grins. "Best 24 hours ever." He stands and watches you adjust. "I hope I didn't mess it up at the end." He's still a little worried about all his actions at the club.
"No. I like that we can hang out and talk and everything." Your hand pokes out of the blanket as you reach for his.
"Me too." He likes that you can still be close. "Sorry I woke you. Just wanted to say thanks for a great day yesterday."
"Thanks for being a really great first boyfriend." You're less embarrassed about it now. He never made fun of you for it.
"You're welcome. Happy to be your first. You might try it again sometime then?" Getting a boyfriend, that is. One everyone approves of, of course.
"If they're all as nice as you, I'll think about it." You say with a yawn.
"Thanks. Can't wait to let Jean know you said so."
"What did I tell you about that?" You're back to attempting to not let them use you to annoy each other.
He gives a quiet laugh. Yes, things are back to normal.
"Let's not completely rule this out in the future." You say a little quieter even.
Eren takes a second before his eye widen. "Oh. You mean..." As in, the two of you, together.
You're blushing and still sleepy and try to pull the covers over your head so he'll stop looking at you.
"Stop hiding from me." He steals the blanket back, much like he did yesterday morning. He thumbs your cheek with his free hand and leans down to kiss your forehead.
"It's okay. You know, I've been thinking it too." Maybe theres a reason he dated less since he met you, and you never really have at all.
"Mikasa would kill me." You say. You still don't know for sure if her feelings ever truly went away. Even if she said this didn't bother her.
"Nah. She'd be cool. Jean, however..." Eren grins at the thought.
"So you'd only date me to annoy him?" You pretend to be offended.
"No, silly, it would just be another perk."
Eren leans in again to kiss your cheek and give your side a quick tickle, making you giggle loudly suddenly.
"Shut up." You hear Armin mumble from the other side of the room. You've finally woken him up.
Eren grins while you put your free hand over your mouth, still laughing. Armin could be cranky in the morning.
So, knowing you'll always be friends, you leave it open as to if you two might possibly get together one day.
"Go back to sleep, I'll see you later." He squeezes your hand and waits until your grip gets looser and your eyes close before heading out.
-----
You slowly wake again more than an hour later and realize your phone vibrating on the nightstand has been what's disturbing you.
Sitting up against the headboard you see Armin still sleeping. You reach for your phone and quietly look through messages.
Some make you smile or roll your eyes as you comment on them.
Jean and Sasha want to know if you're officially back to normal and where you are and when you're hanging out.
"You're still with Eren? Isn't 24 hours up yet?" Jean asks.
Before you can answer you get an incoming video message from Eren.
You turn the volume down and whisper.
"Just checking in. And saying again, I had a great time with you. Like always, you know." And in new ways, too.
"Me too." You smile. Would things be a bit different now?
"You still in bed?" He raises an eyebrow.
"So's Armin." You tell him.
"Well, I'm completely worn out. Professor Ackerman can be such a hardass!"
You hear a faint 'what was that?' and Eren groaning and suddenly it's professor Ackerman you're chatting with.
"Morning." He's generally nice to you, because you don't make trouble. You and Historia are some of his favorites.
"Morning, professor." You hope if you can be cheerful enough he won't keep Eren any longer even after hearing what he said.
"So, where are you, exactly?" Turns out, he heard that too.
"Oh, ah, in bed." Not a lie.
"Whose bed?" Sneaking into the boys dorms? Since when?
You hesitate and then are wide eyed.
"Shut up!" Armin has once again been woken up and is now sitting up in bed.
"And, who would that be?" The professor asks.
You can't see Eren, but it almost sounds like he's crying.
Being caught, you don't make it worse and turn the phone towards Armin. "Say hi." You tell both of them.
Armin realizes his mistake and can't do anything.
"Tch. You brought this upon yourselves. Arlert, be outside in 15 minutes. And Eren, don't you move."
Now Eren is crying for real.
Erens right, even if he gets himself in trouble, somehow this is kind of your fault, too.
"Professor! Please don't-" You try to ask him to go easy since nothing happened, even if you broke the rules.
"Save it. See you Monday." He says to you and hangs up the call.
Monday, your next class with him.
"How come you're not in trouble?" Armin sulks as he hurries to get himself together.
"Sorry." You say and shrug.
After Armin leaves, you text Sasha to bring you some clothes.
Laying back down to wait for her you look at some of your photos from yesterday while playing with Erens hair tie, still around your wrist. You're happy. This is the happiness you want.
While trying to think of a way to save Eren and Armin from professor Ackermans wrath, you also think about how though you're not oppose to the possibility of another 24 hour challenge or some interesting dares on the next game night, there's also the possibility that in the not so distant future, there might be a something, or someone, who keeps you from wanting to do them.
