Nothing could soothe Eren's anxiety. He was dreading today's mission. It was highly dangerous and special, just for him.
It was to hold Armin's hand.
He wasn't good with articulating his thoughts so he was going to express himself with actions. Hopefully this would get at least part of the message. He wanted to hold Armin tight and kiss his cheek more than anything in this world. More than wanting to kill every titan. His heart had opened.
One night, he had laid alone in bed, thinking the day over, when he realized his thoughts kept straying back to Armin. His sweet blond hair, his kindness, his fierce intelligence. Everything about him was wonderful.
Finally, he had reached his conclusion. He loved Armin. As a friend and as a boyfriend.
He had tried to tell himself he was going to be blunt and upfront about it, but he kept finding himself getting flustered.
xxx
Armin was sitting at a table by himself, drinking a warm cup of coffee, part of his morning routine. Was Eren blushing already, before even doing anything?
The usually strong boy made his way over and sat down on his crush's right. He could feel how content he was by the way he tapped his foot. Eren found it endearing, and scooted a little closer, a sudden rush of confidence flowing over him. It broke down as Armin turned to look at him, smiling and saying, "Good morning, Eren!" He felt his mouth drop and quickly turned away, gathering himself.
The steam from the coffee warmed both of the boys. Eren leaned in, putting his elbow on the table, attempting to look smooth. "Armin, hey. I want to talk about something."
"Then don't make that silly pose!" Armin laughed.
Eren's cheeks reddened with embarrassment and he straightened himself up, putting his hands in his lap.
"I've just been thinking a lot recently. About everything." Eren started.
"I know. I can tell its been weighing on you." He replied.
"Oh..." Eren paused. He needed to find the perfect words.
He slid his hand a little closer. Why not just get it over with...right?
He didn't have time to think. He gently interlocked his hand with Armin's. They both blushed instantly, and Armin became tense, before relaxing and setting his head on Eren's shoulder.
"Me...too. I feel the same way." Armin reassured him.
The two stayed together for an eternal moment. They heard an officer calling the soldiers.
The moment may have ended, but their relationship was just beginning.