Notes: There's no smut in this chapter, so I took the time to start exploring the subplots. The focus for Armin is on personal acceptance, and for Levi/Erwin it's the threat of their relationship being discovered. Both subplots play a role in shaping the threesome relationship later in the story!

I reference an incident of bullying/physical assault in this chapter, which will be explored more later on. But keep in mind that while I touch on heavier issues occasionally, this story will never get too dark and will ultimately have a happy ending.

Previously: Armin, Levi and Erwin's first threesome encounter was a success, and the men arrange to meet up again. Armin started his new job as a library assistant, and has his own private quarters now. Things are looking up for him, except for some unwelcome reminders of the past...

Chapter 11: Hopes and Dreams

Armin

"Armin? Armin! Are you listening? Were you up all night or something?!"

Mikasa's incredulous tone shattered Armin's daydreams. Yes, he had been up late last night. No, it wasn't Levi and Erwin's fault this time.

Armin had borrowed one of the new foreign books from the library (a perk of his job, as no one else was allowed to borrow them yet). It was a fantasy novel – a genre that did not even exist in Paradis. Armin had devoured 300 pages over the last two nights, and was still only half-way through it.

It was helpful to have something else to focus on at night. Otherwise, he immersed himself in endless details of his thrilling threesome encounter last week - the hungry glint in the Commander's eyes, his heavy weight, his large hands taking control of Armin's pleasure; or the dirty, encouraging words the Captain had whispered in his ear…

It was proving difficult to distract himself from these recollections popping up in his mind at inappropriate times. But throwing himself into his library work and reading new books was at least semi-effective.

Armin glanced at his friends, who were both staring at him curiously. The whole unit was lined up outside in the crisp morning air, waiting for their training instructor to arrive. Everyone was using the opportunity to chat amongst themselves. Or, in Sasha and Connie's case, munch on some extra bread they'd filched from breakfast.

"I stayed up late reading that book I was telling you about. It just keeps getting better!"

Mikasa's dark eyes showed no mercy. "You're having a lot of late nights lately. You need to make sure you're getting enough sleep."

"Stop pestering him Mika, you're not his mother." Eren patted Armin's arm, shaking his head pityingly. "You poor thing. I bet you can't sleep in that new room because you miss me too much."

Mikasa snorted in a most unladylike manner. "Yeah, I'm sure he misses all your rants about Jean looking like a horse."

"Hey, I don't make those jokes anymore! It's offensive to horses to compare them to Jean."

Armin did indeed miss his best friend's company at night sometimes. He'd already made plans for a sleepover in the dorms with Eren, Connie, Jean and Marco next weekend. But Mikasa was right. It was also nice to have his own privacy and peace.

Mikasa narrowed her eyes, trying to look angry but her mouth twitched like she was restraining giggles. "Eren, sometimes I don't know if you really hate Jean Kirstein, or if you're madly in love with him!"

"What? NO! Why does everyone keep saying that?" Eren's shouting attracted the attention of other soldiers, who sniggered at his theatrics. Eren took Mikasa's hand and leaned in to murmur in her ear instead. Armin couldn't quite catch the words, but they earned a smile from Mikasa.

Armin shifted his weight from one leg to the other, looking around at the other soldiers to give the couple some semblance of privacy. He never knew what to do when they got all affectionate like this. To be fair they never did anything too embarrassing – it was mostly just meaningful glances and discreet hand-holding. But even these little gestures made Armin's stomach twist like someone was tying ropes in it.

He was happy for them, of course. But a traitorous voice at the back of his head wondered why he couldn't have what they did.

I shouldn't be jealous, Armin told himself firmly. Things are going really well for me right now.

Especially his new job at the library, which was like a dream come true.

That is, except for one major downside…

Floch Forster.

On every one of Armin's late shifts, the man had visited the library after dinner. Each time he took a table in one of the secluded corners and sat reading until closing time. He never spoke to Armin – he kept his head down and never even looked over at the reception desk. But Armin was agonisingly aware of his presence as he tried to work.

He glanced down the line of rowdy soldiers. Floch stood at the far end, grim-faced as always. He never took part in the light-hearted antics of his peers. Beside him, Connie and Sasha were tossing bits of bread into the air and trying to catch it in their mouths. Floch glared at them, as if their childish behaviour was a personal insult to him.

Floch had never bothered to make any friends. He existed on the edge of the group, in a bubble of solitude. He no doubt preferred it that way.

During their cadet training years, Floch had been extremely outspoken and opinionated. Armin had always been an easy target for his sharp criticisms, since he struggled so much to keep up in physical activities. Floch's verbal onslaughts would slice through Armin's confidence and make him even more prone to mistakes. Just the sight of him now sent his body into panic mode.

And his mind kept torturing him with the memory of that incident last year…

That's all behind me now. Don't waste time thinking about it, Armin reminded himself. Unfortunately, this was easier said than done.

"Are you worried about Forster?" Mikasa asked, catching where Armin was staring. He'd already told his friends about Floch's visits to the library.

Armin wanted to deny it. But it was pointless - his friends could usually tell when he was lying. He needed to avoid as much suspicion as possible with all the other secrets he was currently hiding from them.

"Yeah," he admitted. "But I know it's stupid. He hasn't even spoken to me yet. He just sits in the corner and reads."

"Don't worry, if he causes you trouble again, Mikasa and I will take care of him." Eren cracked his knuckles threateningly.

"Thanks. But hopefully it doesn't come to that." While he appreciated his friends' support, Armin also felt a familiar sting of annoyance at himself.

Would he ever break free of the role of a helpless weakling who always needed to be rescued?

Things had been going so well for the last few months – Floch had kept out of his way, and Armin could almost pretend the incident last year had been a bad nightmare. But Floch's appearances at the library were ripping open old wounds he didn't want to confront. The prospect of having to talk to him, even simply as part of his job, filled him with icy tendrils of dread.

As if determined to torment himself, his thoughts crept back to that night at the graduation party last year…

It had started with a group of soldiers drunkenly teasing Floch. He'd failed to score high enough in his exams to gain entry into the Military Police. He'd been complaining about it ever since he got his results, but nobody had any sympathy for him.

Floch had stormed out of the celebration in a tantrum. And for some reason, Armin followed him outside, wanting to offer some reassurance. Why not try to forget about the past, now they were all graduating and moving forward with their lives?

Armin wished in vain that he had just stayed with his friends that night - laughing at Floch like all the others, and not giving a second thought to someone who had made his life a misery.

"I'll kill him if he dares to touch you again. He deserves no second chances after what he did last time," Mikasa growled, fists clenched and shoulders squared.

"You were pretty scary that night," Armin forced out a laugh, trying to ease the mood. "I'm sure he's learned his lesson."

It was easier to make light of the incident. Better that, than to remember how Eren and Mikasa had seen him sobbing and begging Floch to get off him. Even afterwards, he hadn't been able to stop shaking for hours, and could barely speak. His friends had stayed and comforted him all that night.

Armin's wrists began to prickle in memory of Floch's bruising grip. His chest clenched at the horrifying helplessness and shame of not being able to escape. And those shocking words Floch had screamed at him, burning with such vehemence and revulsion…

What would have happened if Mikasa and Eren hadn't come looking for him? How far would Floch have taken things?

Armin fought to regulate his breathing and bring himself back to the present. Everything is fine, I'm with my friends, I'm safe…

Mikasa placed her hand on his back, rubbing it in soothing circles. The smell of her familiar flowery perfume helped to ground him. "We're always here for you Armin. Remember that Floch's treatment of you doesn't define your life. Don't give him that power over you."

Eren nodded, face unusually serious. "You did nothing to deserve him lashing out at you that night. All because he was mad he didn't make it into the Military Police!"

There had been more to the attack than that, based on the snatches of Floch's piercing words that Armin could recall. He'd never shared them with his friends, and instead kept them locked tight inside himself. Deep enough that sometimes he could forget about them for days at a time. But every so often he examined them, allowing the barbs to slice him all over again.

The assault had not been sexually motivated, despite Eren and Mikasa's initial assumptions when they'd walked in on it. No, Floch had simply wanted to prove a point. And he succeeded; because even a year later, Armin still hadn't fully shaken off those toxic, haunting words…

But he felt a boost of resolve from Eren and Mikasa's unwavering support. Not trusting himself to speak, he leaned in and put his arms around their shoulders in a group hug. They reciprocated and pulled him closer, ignoring the teasing remarks from other soldiers.

Armin hated the tiny spark of resentment inside him at his friends' relationship - why should he begrudge them seizing any opportunity for happiness? It wasn't their fault that a whirlwind romance wasn't on the cards for Armin anytime soon. He needed to put these silly, sentimental dreams out of his head. After all, there were so many other things to be grateful for in his life right now.

The training instructor finally turned up, and barked out orders for them all to run laps. The heavy physical activity quickly made Armin's worries fade from his mind.

As Armin entered the library for his afternoon shift, he revelled in the contentment that surged through him.

Mikasa was right. It was time to focus on the life he was living now, and not endlessly relive the shame and fear of his past. He wouldn't allow Floch's unwelcome presence to take his newfound happiness away.

The library was where he truly belonged – working to protect important historical records, and taking an active role in sharing knowledge with others. And the influx of books from foreign countries marked an exciting leap forward in educating soldiers about the outside world. Armin was bursting with ideas about how to use this new material to attract more people to the library.

He saw his friends less now because of his job. But he also felt a sense of accomplishment in his library duties, something he never achieved during the endless hours he'd spent training as a soldier.

As he re-catalogued a stack of old books related to the care and usage of ODM gear, Armin's mind drifted elsewhere. He was meeting Levi and Erwin again tonight – exactly a week after his last visit. Would their encounters become a weekly occurrence?

A weird mix of nerves, excitement and arousal rattled his insides as he considered tonight.

The men had told Armin to think about what he wanted to do for the next meeting. He'd already told them he wouldn't be comfortable with trying anal sex for a while. Thankfully, they didn't seem put off by this, and were content to focus on other things.

But despite his fears, Armin couldn't stop recalling the passionate sex he'd witnessed between Levi and Erwin last week. Would anal sex be that good for him? The few times he'd tried fingering himself privately, he found it impossible to relax. And having a drink or two when it came to trying it with the other two men was out of the question. They'd already made it clear they didn't want to have sex with him when drunk or tipsy. They were afraid he might give consent for something he'd later regret.

So Armin had no idea how he'd relax enough to enjoy anal penetration. Sure, the prospect was incredibly hot in theory – his mind could conjure up over a dozen ways the men could fuck him into oblivion. But what would it actually be like in reality?

There was another element of anal sex that made Armin uneasy. The idea of giving over complete control made his stomach twist with anxiety as much as anticipation. Did he trust them enough to do it? Or rather, was he ready to put himself in such a vulnerable position? Thinking of their last encounter, he wanted to say yes. But he definitely needed some more time…

And how would he approach the delicate issue of who he wanted to top him first? His first choice would be Erwin - the man's charms and gentle manners had proven very effective at putting him at ease. But then there was the awkward matter of Erwin's… size… that troubled Armin. So perhaps letting Levi top him first would be best? But would he feel as comfortable with the volatile Captain?

Armin finished working on the books, and stacked them carefully on a trolley to be re-shelved later. He always did this – focussed on the negatives of any situation, built them up in his mind until they created an insurmountable wall.

Stop worrying about it! They're not pressuring you to do anal until you're ready. There's plenty of other things you can do with them for now…

Armin smiled as he finished up his shift, and made his way to the mess hall for dinner. He allowed his anticipation of tonight to overwhelm his nerves. He'd been nervous last week, but everything had turned out even better than he'd expected in the end.

Hopefully tonight would be the same.

Erwin

It was the end of another long, exhausting week of meetings, diplomatic discussions, and endless paperwork. Erwin had never deluded himself about the rigours that being a Commander would entail; he'd accepted the position knowing full well the effects it would have on his life.

But he tried to put work matters out of his mind. He needed to give his full attention to tonight, to ensure his and Levi's second encounter with Armin went smoothly. Right now he and his partner were giving the quarters a quick clean before their guest's arrival.

"What do you think of the news about Vivian Prendergast?" Erwin asked, clearing one of his unfinished reports off the couch.

The Survey Corps had been buzzing today with gossip about Lieutenant Prendergast of the Military Police. At a governmental gathering yesterday, she had publicly announced she was in a relationship with a fellow female soldier. Apparently the couple were sick of keeping it a secret from everyone and decided to come out into the open about it.

Levi's attention was fixed on scrubbing a small tea stain on the table. He took a few moments to reply. "She was brave, I'll give her that. I just hope it doesn't affect her position if there's a negative backlash."

"You know, most people I've talked to today didn't think it was that big of a deal," Erwin said cautiously. "Public perception has really changed these last few years."

"I still wouldn't fancy everyone knowing my business." Levi scowled as he finished wiping the table, using a little more force than was necessary. Then he tossed the damp rag down and met Erwin's gaze. "Look, I think it's great that some high-ranking officer opened up about her same-sex relationship. But it doesn't change how I feel about doing it myself. My opinion on the matter is the same as before."

Erwin nodded, keeping the disappointment off his face. "Of course. I didn't mean to put you under pressure. You know I respect your decision."

Levi's features softened. "I'm sorry I can't be as dauntless as you about it. I just don't think I could live with the public scrutiny."

Erwin closed the distance between them, and kissed the top of his partner's head. "It's alright darling, I understand."

And he did understand. Even if he dearly wished Levi's feelings on the subject were different.

Levi was the centre of his life. The best part of his life, if he was honest. As much as he thrived on the challenge and pressures of his career, he would give it all up for Levi if he was forced to make a choice.

Erwin felt no shame to admit this to himself. But the longer they were together, the more he wanted to announce his devotion for Levi to the world.

It had made sense to keep their relationship a secret in the early days. Everything was so uncertain, and they were still in the midst of fighting for the freedom of Paradis. Nevermind that relationships between same-sex couples were still very much a taboo back then.

But things were changing now in the last few years. With the influence of their alliances with the rest of the world, Paradis was opening up to many new things. Including more liberal views on sexuality and gender.

Take Hange for instance. They used to be ridiculed by some for their insistence on not wanting to be exclusively referred to as either male or female. But recently, Erwin heard about other people also identifying themselves as 'non-binary' (the term used by the rest of the world). As well as people who expressed a preference to be referred to as the opposite of their assigned birth gender. And now Lieutenant Prendergast's bold announcement challenged conservative mindsets even further.

Erwin hoped that in a few years' time, with even more social progression, Levi would feel more comfortable making their own relationship public. It would be such an immense relief to be open about it once and for all…

But I won't keeping pushing him about the matter, Erwin decided. It's not worth risking the stability of our relationship over my selfish desires.

They finished the cleaning up together in no time. Levi needed to leave for a late training session with his squad, and would be back in an hour. This meant Erwin would be greeting Armin alone.

"Listen carefully to me Erwin," Levi warned. "Make sure Arlert takes off his shoes when he comes in. I don't care if he bats his eyes at you, or says he hasn't worn them outside. If I come back here and his shoes aren't at the front door, I will call this whole thing off. Stop smirking at me, this is serious!"

"Don't worry darling, I'm taking this very seriously."

"And his shoes are the only thing he's allowed to take off. You two better not start without me."

Erwin sobered. "That's the last thing on my mind. We'll wait until you get back."

"Good." Levi stood in the hallway, hands on hips. His stony expression cracked just the smallest fraction. "That kid's got you well and truly hooked, hasn't he?"

"He's got us both hooked, from how much you talk about him," Erwin countered. "But remember, if you change your mind about tonight you just have to tell me."

Levi quirked his lips. "And miss all the fun? There's still plenty of things we need to teach that little know-it-all brat…"

After Levi left, Erwin's mind wandered as he prepared refreshments for Armin's arrival. He was beyond thrilled at his partner's enthusiasm for inviting someone into their bedroom. But were they playing with fire by continuing this threesome arrangement? While they trusted Armin to keep quiet, there was still a risk of discovery by other means.

However, he couldn't deny that the secrecy added a delicious, forbidden flavour to the whole situation. And he didn't see any harm to this arrangement, once everyone involved wanted it. He and Levi certainly did.

And last week, Armin had demonstrated very clearly how much he wanted it too.

The knock on the door snapped Erwin out of his musings. Heartbeat quickening, he patted his hair and straightened his clothes. He was in casual attire instead of his work suit like last time - they'd all agreed to dress more informally for tonight. It felt foolish to stand on ceremony when this threesome seemed to be turning into a weekly occurrence.

He opened the door for his guest. Armin greeted him with wide eyes and a shy smile. He was wearing a dark blue shirt and grey trousers. He sent a quick glance around the corridor; probably hoping nobody would see him visiting the Commander of the Survey Corps in his private quarters.

Erwin had already given him an excuse to use if he did happen to meet anyone. But Armin still looked relieved when Erwin returned his smile, and gestured for him to enter.

The young man stopped just past the door to pull off his shoes.

He learns fast. Levi would approve, Erwin thought wryly.

He stared covertly at the sight of Armin bending over to tug off his shoes. The trousers he wore weren't overly tight, but they still clung very flatteringly to his ass. When Armin straightened, he met the larger man's gaze before flitting away.

"I'm glad you came," Erwin said, injecting warmth into his voice. Repeating the same gesture from their previous meeting, he put a hand on the young man's shoulder, and led him into the sitting room. "Levi's delayed at a late session with his squad, so it's just us for now. Do you want some tea?"

Erwin served the tea and they both settled into seats. He made sure to sit opposite Armin – deliberately creating distance to make it clear nothing intimate would happen until Levi returned.

Armin seemed to appreciate not jumping into bed straight away. He took the opportunity to ask Erwin questions about his work as Commander. Erwin answered politely, but he wearied of the topic after a few minutes. It only served to remind him of the stack of paperwork awaiting him in his office, and that meeting with the Military Police and Garrison commanders he had first thing tomorrow morning…

He winced and rubbed his temples. The edge of a tension headache prickled under his skin.

"Are you alright?" Armin asked, looking genuinely concerned.

I won't ruin his fantasy of the competent Commander effortlessly keeping the whole Survey Corps afloat. Nobody wants to know the truth - that I'm only human.

Besides, Levi was the only person he was comfortable sharing his personal concerns with.

"I'm fine, it's just been a long day." He smoothed his features into a charming smile, and took a sip of tea while he decided how to re-direct the conversation. "What about you? How are things in the library?"

Luckily Armin didn't have the same qualms about discussing work. He beamed, eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

"Oh it's great! We're still re-cataloguing all the old books and records. That will probably take another few weeks, but after that Emilia says we'll start properly organising all the new foreign books." Armin shared some of his ideas for revamping the library to make it more appealing to soldiers.

The Survey Corps library had been woefully neglected and underfunded for years, and it was a miracle that the Head Librarian had been able to manage everything by herself. As vital as preserving their military and historical records was, the library now had the opportunity to become something much more in this time of peace. Erwin appreciated that Armin understood this untapped potential. He had definitely been an excellent candidate for the job.

Erwin had been expecting to put on his full charm to help put his guest at ease, but Armin was more relaxed than at the previous meeting. Possibly because Levi wasn't here to passive-aggressively criticise him like last time. Not that Levi had meant to put him on edge – he had just been too forceful in hiding his own nerves.

For this arrangement to continue, Armin needs to be able to accept and deal with Levi's moods. He's already showing more confidence tonight which is a great sign…

Erwin didn't have to fake his interest in Armin's suggestions for the library, and he offered up some of his own opinions on potential changes. It was impossible not to feel uplifted by the young man's eagerness for his work, and his shining ideas for the future.

As much as Armin's shy, innocent demeanour was definitely a bit of a turn-on, Erwin preferred it when he showed some self-assurance and spark. Both he and Levi had been surprised and impressed with the initiative he took during their last encounter. And Erwin was relieved that despite Armin's hesitance around Levi, he'd been keen to include him in the activities.

Watching the two men kissing and touching on the bed had been one of the hottest things Erwin had ever seen in his life.

And there's so much more ahead of us to explore together…

"How are things with your friends, Eren and Mikasa? Is it true that they're in a relationship now?" Erwin had gleaned this news from Levi, who overheard Mikasa chatting to her squad mates during a training session.

"Oh, yes! But that's no surprise to anyone, they've been inseparable for years. I'm really happy for them." Armin's bright expression clouded by a fraction, his smile appearing forced. He took a hasty gulp of tea.

There was definitely more to this based on his reaction. Is he jealous because he has feelings for Eren? Or Mikasa? Or does he feel like an outsider in their friendship now?

Before he could delve any deeper into Armin's personal life, they heard the front door open.

"Is that you, Levi?" Erwin called.

"Of course it's me. How many other people have you given keys to?" the Captain grumbled from the hall. "Arlert, I assume you're here too, judging by your shoes."

Moments later, a soaking wet Levi appeared in the sitting room.

"It's fucking lashing out there," he clarified needlessly, crossing his arms. "It's good to see you, Armin," he added gruffly. Despite his tone, Erwin could tell he meant it.

"Hi Captain," Armin greeted cheerfully.

Levi heaved an exaggerated sigh. "If you insist on calling me Captain in private, when I've already told you to call me Levi, you better be prepared for the consequences."

Armin's mouth twisted like he was holding back laughter. He seemed to be getting better at discerning when Levi was teasing.

"Anyway, I'll take a shower before I join you." He shot Erwin a levelled look. "Just keep your hands off him until I'm back. And Armin," he glanced at the smaller blond, "don't let that charming bastard have his way with you before I return."

Levi strode off to the bathroom before either of them could reply.

Armin finally released his nervous laughter. "Is he always like that?"

"When he's in a talkative mood, yes. Otherwise it's mostly grunts and shrugs."

Erwin pushed down his disappointment. If it weren't for Armin's presence, hr might have suggested having some fun with Levi before the shower.

The man always looked incredible in the Survey Corps uniform. But the way the damp material had clung to his soaking wet body, making his shirt almost transparent and emphasising his muscles… How the hell had any of his squad been able to concentrate with their Captain in such a distracting state?

Maybe I should ask Levi to wear his uniform during one of our threesome encounters, he mused. Perhaps Armin might be interested too?

He pictured the three of them playing out a scenario - with Levi and Armin in uniform, ODM straps and all, coming into Erwin's office to seduce him. Both men bossily taking charge, giving him orders, perhaps taking turns on their Commander's lap…

This tantalising image sent heat rushing to his groin. He did his best to sober his thoughts. They were still early into this arrangement, and he didn't want to pressure Armin. Besides, he probably needed time to build up enough sexual confidence to act properly dominant with his superiors.

"Did you hear about that MP officer who announced she's in a relationship with another woman?" Armin asked, shaking Erwin from his wild imaginings. "I hope this helps more people to be able to open up about their sexuality."

Given his conversation with Levi earlier, this wasn't a topic Erwin particularly wanted to talk about right now. But Armin's enthusiasm was contagious. They discussed how it was a positive step forward for Paradis – a country still struggling between the old conservative ways, and new beliefs of acceptance.

As they talked, he took the opportunity to appraise Armin. With his big blue eyes, golden hair and creamy skin, the man radiated an angelic quality that matched his gentle disposition. The complete opposite of Levi, Erwin noted with fond amusement for his partner.

Armin tended to be a lot more demonstrative with his feelings too. He didn't have Levi's skill of concealing everything, and his face often betrayed his immediate reactions. He blushed easily, broke eye contact when he was embarrassed, and fidgeted with his sleeves when he was uncomfortable.

There was something very soothing about the man's openness. But still, Erwin suspected there were things he was hiding from them. Which was entirely his business. As curious as Erwin was about the man's private life, he was entitled to his secrets. So long as he was honest about his feelings about the threesome, that was all that mattered.

This is just a temporary arrangement, It's dangerous to let ourselves get too attached to each other. We're here to satisfy our mutual desires. Not to become best friends.

The situation could get confusing if he and Levi didn't watch themselves. As attractive as Armin was, he could not become a permanent part of their relationship. When the arrangement eventually ended, they'd need to go back to treating him as a normal soldier.

There's no point worrying about all that now. Just concentrate on tonight, and making sure both Armin and Levi enjoy themselves.

He focussed his attention on Armin, who was now discussing a rather fascinating novel he was reading – one of the books the library had received from abroad. Erwin felt a stab of jealousy. Since assuming the role of Commander he barely found time to read for pleasure anymore.

But it was impossible not to be swept up in the young man's passionate outpouring. There was something enthralling in the raw intensity of his voice, and the expression of pure, unguarded happiness spread across his delicate features.

Erwin's chest tightened. He needed to tread very carefully here - he refused to allow his feelings for Armin drift beyond the terms of their temporary arrangement.

If that ever happens, he vowed to himself, I'll end things immediately. Nothing will ever get in the way of my relationship with Levi…

Armin

Levi strolled back into the sitting room, silent as a stalking cat.

Armin halted, completely losing the thread of his speech. He was in the middle of explaining to Erwin the plot of the book he was reading. But the sight of Levi snatched his attention away.

The Captain had changed into comfortable trousers and a loose, untucked shirt. Wet hair framed his face in dark, messy spikes. His skin was still reddened from the heat of the shower, and it gave the false impression that he was blushing.

He strolled over, accepting a freshly-poured cup of tea from Erwin. He perched on the armrest of the couch right beside the Commander, so that both men were now facing Armin.

Was this a calculated move on Levi's part, to assert ownership of his partner? To remind Armin of his place in this arrangement?

"Don't stop on my account. I didn't mean to interrupt such an animated discussion." Levi sipped his tea, his tone traced with the barest hint of amusement. Was he teasing or mocking Armin?

His stomach twisted. This wasn't an ideal conversation topic with Levi present. Armin heard rumours that the man had trouble reading, and only properly learned after he joined the Survey Corps. If this were true, Armin doubted he was a fellow book enthusiast.

But he also didn't want Levi to feel left out.

Armin took a steadying breath. "I was just telling Erwin about the novel I'm reading – it's one of the new books from the library." He explained the plot, feeling his face growing hotter at Levi's blank expression. "It's really good," he finished lamely.

"Arlert, that sounds fucking insane. Why would anyone read something like that?"

Armin's earlier enthusiasm shrivelled up inside him. How could he convey to Levi what was so compelling about the story? This new genre of 'fantasy' books had sounded strange at first to him too. Yes, it contained fanciful elements like magic, dragons and a made-up world; which all seemed a bit silly in theory. But the story's characters and their struggles were very relatable.

Armin forced himself to sit straighter. He wouldn't take offence at Levi's remark. "I suppose it's like when we discovered the outside world a few years ago – the concepts of electricity, photography, and cars all would have sounded crazy to us before that. But it's been fascinating to learn about people living in different environments to us. It's the same in this imaginary world in the novel. The characters endure the same basic human problems that we can all relate to, such as discrimination, oppression, injustice, conflict…" Armin trailed off, concerned that his defensive answer was turning into a speech.

Levi crossed his arms and gave a little shrug. "Alright, that makes sense. I'm glad you're enjoying it, I'm not a big reader like you or Erwin."

"Would you like to borrow it?" Armin asked Erwin. He'd sounded very interested in it earlier. But was he only being polite?

"I'm too busy to read much these days. But I'd love to take a proper look through the library's new foreign books at some stage." Erwin's warm smile reached his eyes, and Armin knew he was genuinely enthused by the prospect.

"You should definitely come visit! I can show you the new books, and all the other changes we're planning to make."

Erwin's smile faltered, and a crease appeared between Levi's brows. Armin cursed himself.

It's probably not a good idea to interact in public unless it's completely necessary. This arrangement isn't about all of us becoming friends after all…

"I mean, Emilia's always talking about you. She'd love you to come visit," Armin added hastily, shifting the focus away from himself.

"I might arrange with her to take a look," Erwin agreed. "But it will be an entirely professional visit." His tone was kind, but with a stiff edge.

"Erwin and I already discussed this ourselves," Levi said. "We think the less we meet in public, the better. Don't take it personally."

Armin's insides squirmed. He felt like a chastised child, begging for a treat he wasn't allowed to have. He would have to be careful to remember where he stood with these two men in future.

They're right to establish boundaries – it will stop things from getting complicated. Not that I'm any real threat to their relationship… But perhaps they're afraid I'll get too attached to them or something?

His stomach unclenched as he realised they were looking out for him as much as for themselves. He forced himself to meet their gazes. "I understand. And I agree that's for the best."

Both men nodded, looking relieved. Then Levi turned his head to make eye contact with Erwin beside him. He flicked his gaze meaningfully at Armin.

The sincere, charming smile returned to Erwin's face, and the tension in the room evaporated.

"So Armin, did you think about what you'd like to try out tonight?" he asked, as easily as if he were asking if he wanted more tea.

Armin looked down, hands involuntarily twisting in his lap. Stop being shy, he told himself sternly. The whole purpose of this threesome is about exploring our desires. After how open they were with me last week, I shouldn't be embarrassed about any of this.

He took a steadying breath. The intensity of both men's eyes on him set his nerves on fire, and his stomach bubbling with excitement. He felt a heady thrill of empowerment, similar to what he'd experienced at their previous encounter.

"Are you building up the suspense or what, Arlert? Just spit it out." Levi uncrossed his arms and leaned a little forward in his seat.

"Of course if you've changed your mind about tonight, that's also fine," Erwin said.

"Oh no, I haven't changed my mind," Armin assured him. He cleared his throat. "Well… I was thinking about maybe trying out oral? If that's ok?" he added hastily, not nearly as composed as he'd hoped to sound.

Now Erwin leaned forward in his seat too. "Would you be comfortable with me performing it on you?"

This polite, eager question from the Commander of the Survey Corps almost made Armin burst into laughter. He found himself looking at Levi.

"I'm fine with it," the Captain shrugged. "Erwin and I have discussed our own limits. We'll make it clear to you if there's ever anything we're not happy with."

Armin licked his lips, cheeks on fire at the images racing around his mind. "Um… yeah. I'm ok with that." His voice was softer than he'd like, so he added more firmly, "I think I'm interested in trying it too. But I won't be certain until I'm actually in the situation..."

Erwin nodded. "Of course. But remember you're never obligated to return the favour for anything we do for you." He glanced at his partner. "We were thinking, would you be comfortable if Levi and I had sex, like we did last time, but instead of watching, you participated? We know you're not ready for penetrative sex yourself, but you might still enjoy being involved as we did it."

Memories from last week, of Erwin turning Levi into an absolute whining mess, shot a wave of hot arousal to Armin's groin.

"Yes, I'd like to try that," he said decisively.

The two men shared a meaningful look. Erwin took Levi's hand, and leaned in to whisper something in his ear. Levi's face softened, and a small laugh escaped his lips. The look in Erwin's eyes was one of unquestionable devotion.

A flicker of jealousy at their easy intimacy flared in the pit of Armin's stomach. It was similar to the envy he felt watching Eren and Mikasa sometimes. But he knew his place – he was the 'guest' in their relationship. While the men showed him nothing but respect and kindness, at the end of the day he was just a temporary visitor.

That suits me too, having no strings attached. I'm going to make the most of this arrangement while it lasts…

"Do you want to go into the bedroom?" Erwin asked, as he and Levi stood, still holding hands.

Armin didn't hesitate. "Yes."

Notes: So… what did you think about Floch, Armin's insecurities, Levi & Erwin's relationship, and the threesome? Are you excited to find out what happens next? (Spoiler alert, the next 2 chapters are mostly SMUT! But the subplots will continue weaving in around the threesome plot for the rest of the story).

I hope anyone reading is still enjoying this story. Feel free to let me know your thoughts XD