"So…. there used to be separate pieces of land, called continents. And there were people of all different races and ethnicities with diverse cultures. I think Mikasa was from a continent called Asia, Japan specifically. Their people are really interesting because…"

For a brief second, something other than knowledge passed his lips.

Face blank and cerulean eyes wide, Armin stared at the girl in wonder. He knew why the continents had separated, why the world revolved, even the physiology of Titans. But it was beyond him why Annie Leonhardt of all people had just kissed him. He just couldn't fathom it.

"Annie…." Struggling to keep his voice level, and failing, his round, curious gaze found her steady one. "Why did you… Why did you do that?"

Her stoic expression softened, and her stormy eyes looked at peace.

"Does everything need a reason, Armin?" Her tone was open, though the question was rhetorical. Her gaze wandered from his hands, to his eyes. "Sometimes, I think it's alright to just let our bodies act without our minds causing trouble."

His brows threaded as he attempted to sort her thoughts. He'd never done that before… never completely let go.

"Is that really what you think? That we should act on instinct?"

Annie shrugged complacently. "I think even us humans have moments of weakness."

"Moments of weakness…." Swallowing his nerves, he placed a hand over hers and offered a gentle half smile. "I guess this is mine."