Notes: So we get a time skip in this chapter – just to shake things up a bit! We're jumping ahead a few weeks, and Armin is about to meet up with Levi & Erwin for their 6th threesome encounter. I ended up adding way more smut to the second scene than I planned, but prepare for lots of drama too!
Hope you enjoy!
Chapter 14: Resolutions and Regrets
Armin
The mess hall echoed with the bustle and clatter of dozens of soldiers eating dinner. Armin was starving after a long afternoon of training. But his day wasn't over yet…
"Are you meeting up with us later?" Eren asked. "We're going to try out that new boardgame Marco bought!"
Armin paused with his fork halfway to his lips. "I can't, sorry. I'm doing the evening shift at the library after dinner. And I'll probably have an early night after that."
"You're not ditching us to read one of your fantasy books, are you?" Eren tilted his head, eyes narrowed. "Or is it something else?"
Armin laughed. "What do you mean?" he asked in a voice so casual, that Erwin Smith himself would have been proud.
But his grip tightened on his cutlery. Does he suspect something? Was I not careful enough?
Eren drew breath to speak, but Mikasa halted him with a hand on his arm. She appraised Armin with a warm smile. "You're right to make sure you get enough sleep, you work so hard at your job! I'm glad you're happy there."
"I wonder if it's just the library work that's the reason why he's in such a good mood lately," Eren chuckled.
Mikasa exhaled loudly. Like her cousin Levi, she had incredible restraint over her emotions. Except when it came to the one person with the power to crack her resolve - Eren Yeager.
"Ereh," she growled, pronouncing his name the way she always did when irritated with her high-spirted boyfriend. She glared at him with eyes so ferocious, that surely nobody would be foolish enough to cross her.
Except for Eren.
"Mika and I think you might be hooking up with someone!" he blurted out, defiantly ignoring the murderous expression on his girlfriend's face. "And I mean, it's totally fine if you are. But please, don't tell me you and Jean are back together. I don't think I could handle that all over again."
Mikasa elbowed her boyfriend in the ribs, making him wince. She turned to Armin, her expression softening. "It's none of our business if you're with anyone. But we're here if you ever want to talk about it."
Apparently, Armin had failed to hide all traces of his secret affair with Levi and Erwin from his friends. Luckily they didn't know any actual facts beyond a suspicion that he was sleeping with someone.
How should I respond? I don't want to lie directly, but I have to say something…
"Thanks," Armin said, genuinely grateful. Then he looked solemnly at Eren. "Don't worry, I promise you that I'm not with Jean. I know he's all yours."
"WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY THAT?!" Eren screamed. Heads swivelled from all around the mess hall. Nobody looked surprised it was Eren Yeager making so much noise again.
Armin and Mikasa sniggered.
"Calm down! Honestly, we wouldn't make jokes about you and Jean if you didn't get so riled up about it." Mikasa patted Eren's shoulder consolingly. He pursed his lips, but didn't resist her placating gesture.
Mikasa deftly pushed the conversation back to Armin's library work. He shared his good news about how one of his new ideas had been approved by Head Librarian Emilia this morning. He was excited to put it into action during his evening shift later.
He was still jittery at how accurate his friends' suspicions were. But there was also a sense of relief too. They knew him so well that it was almost inevitable that they'd guess the reason for good spirits lately.
And Mikasa's calmness about the prospect of him 'hooking up' with someone was reassuring. She wasn't going to pester him for details, even if she did think something was going on. Hopefully now Eren was reassured that he wasn't back together with Jean, he too would drop the matter.
Still, it was disconcerting to know that he hadn't been as clever as he'd thought. He would need to stay vigilant not to let anything slip. But the threesome wouldn't last forever. Armin only needed to hide it from his friends for what - another few weeks? A handful of months? – before it would inevitably end.
With any luck, Eren and Mikasa, and the rest of the Survey Corps, will be none the wiser about any of it…
The library was as quiet as usual for a Friday evening. A scurry of solders came in after dinner to return, borrow, or browse through the books. But in the last hour before closing time, the place was practically empty. Friday was a popular night for soldiers to hang out in the Recreation Building or to go into town.
Emilia had decided to extend the library's opening times after Armin began working there. She hoped the longer hours would encourage more soldiers to visit. So far, the footfall had only increased slightly, and it was mostly the same familiar faces all the time. Armin was determined to change this. He'd shared many suggestions with Emilia about ways to make the library more popular. This evening, with things so quiet, he was going to make a start on his latest idea.
He was in the backroom stacking books onto a cart, listening out in case someone rang the bell at the front desk for his attention. His mind drifted pleasantly as he worked, into a territory he only indulged in when he was alone.
It was two months since he, Levi and Erwin had started their threesome arrangement. They'd met up almost one night a week during that time; except for two skipped weeks where Erwin had been particularly busy with his work duties. Tonight would be their sixth meeting.
His sexual encounters with them were surreal. During the day, as he went about his normal life of training drills and working in the library, it was almost impossible to believe the things he was doing in secret with his Captain and Commander.
The forbidden nature of the whole arrangement made it even more thrilling. Heat crept over his cheeks just imagining what his friends and comrades would think if they knew what was going on. Nobody would ever expect him – innocent, mild-mannered Armin Arlert - to participate in something so scandalous. Much less that he'd enjoy it.
The three of them had settled into something of a routine over the last few weeks. Armin would arrive on the designated nights, they'd serve him refreshments and make polite small talk, which would lead into a discussion about the upcoming night's activities – where they were all free to voice anything they were uncomfortable with so far, or new things they wanted to try. Only after all of this, would they finally head into the bedroom together.
Once their sexual exploits had concluded, they would lounge in bed for a while, and talk about what they'd just done and how they felt. However, the men had made it clear from the start that Armin wasn't allowed to stay the whole night. He understood the wisdom of this rule. The couple needed to enforce restrictions like this to prevent Armin's role in their relationship from drifting beyond that of a temporary guest.
But last week there had been a departure from their usual routine. As they lay in bed afterwards, Armin idly commented that he was starving. Levi said he was too. And so they all ended up back in the living room, eating a midnight snack of crackers, cheese, and herbal tea, and swapping stories with each other.
As amazing as their bedroom activities had been, that cosy gathering was the best part of the night for Armin. They were all extremely relaxed and talkative in their post-sex haze. He discovered some interesting information about the couple – including the fact that they have no intentions of ever making their relationship public. Despite all the prolific figures who'd recently opened up about their same sex relationships.
Armin didn't voice his shock at this revelation. Did they really expect to keep things a secret forever? Were they willing to live their whole lives in secrecy? He noticed Erwin frowning slightly as they discussed the topic, and wondered if there was more to things than they were sharing with him…
He also discovered that Levi had never been with anyone else except for Erwin (something he'd already suspected). But Armin had been surprised when Erwin admitted he'd had sexual relations with both men and women in his past. He refused to divulge the names of who he had been with, however.
Armin opened up about his own experience with Jean too, and their disastrous attempts at keeping things a secret from their friends. This led into tales of misadventures he'd had during his cadet years. The other men couldn't believe some of the antics he'd participated in – such as helping Sasha steal food from the kitchen, keeping a stray cat in the boys' dorms, and pretending he was sick one day so he could skip training, and sneak off into town with Eren.
"And we thought you were such a good boy," Levi had teased, while Erwin laughed.
Armin grinned, lost in the memory as he stacked more books onto the cart. Neither man had touched him during the exchange; indeed, he sat by himself on the armchair opposite them. But the conversation had been a strangely intimate experience - the closest he'd ever felt to these two men.
Of course, I know all of this is temporary. As kind and respectful as Levi and Erwin always are to me, this arrangement is about mutual sexual gratification. I won't mistake it for a real relationship or friendship.
But that didn't mean that Armin couldn't savour it while it lasted.
The threesome was allowing him to explore a side of himself he'd only scratched the surface of with Jean. And he was coming to understand the other men on a more personal level with each passing encounter. He now saw that their roles of Commander and Captain were like masks; and the real Erwin and Levi differed from these embellished personas.
While he downplayed it, Erwin seemed to be increasingly exhausted from his duties as Commander. Whenever Armin asked him about his work, he always gave a polite, brief answer, before changing the topic. Armin now understood that the excitement of this threesome was probably a much-needed diversion for him.
Armin also gathered that Levi struggled with his role as 'Humanity's Strongest Soldier.' He'd always had a personal elite squad, but now he also provided specialised training to general soldiers too. All this social interaction left him drained and irritable. Armin realised that the man's abrupt nature wasn't rudeness – rather it was a negative side-effect of being surrounded by people all day when he'd prefer to spend his time alone.
Armin appreciated that despite the fact they'd only created this threesome to spice up their sex lives, they were always mindful of his welfare and enjoyment in everything they did. Their encounters over the past few weeks had focussed around activities Armin was comfortable watching or participating in. He was now reasonably proud of his skills at giving oral and handjobs, and Levi and Erwin had taught him tips to make both tasks a little easier too.
The men had also demonstrated anal sex in a variety of different positions. Watching the stony Captain crumble under the Commander's attentive but vigorous efforts gave Armin a whole new appreciation for Levi.
He might be Humanity's Strongest… but he's not ashamed of enjoying letting someone else dominate him.
In fact, Armin's fears about anal had now mostly evaporated. Watching how much pleasure the act gave Levi had kindled his tentative interest into a searing flame. In the privacy of his own quarters, he began trying to finger himself with the advice the men gave him. One night alone last week, he'd managed to reach his prostate for the first time. He now felt ready to take the next step with Levi and Erwin.
Tonight, at Armin's request, they were going to try anal sex with him.
He felt like an almost completely different person these days – leaving the timid, weak soldier of his cadet years far behind. He was finally someone he could be proud of; someone who didn't let fear hold him back, who was brave enough to seize opportunities, and who was capable of achieving something worthwhile in his life.
With only twenty minutes left until closing time, Armin pushed the heavy cart of books out of the backroom and into the public area of the library.
The place was deserted. Except for Floch Forster, at his usual secluded table in the corner. Thankfully, he was absorbed in a book and didn't even glance up.
Forget about him. Armin gritted his teeth and moved towards the front of the room. He's visited the library plenty of times, and never approached me once. I've got nothing to worry about.
He focused instead on the task at hand.
They'd accumulated so many books from other countries during the past few months, that the library didn't have enough space to house all of them. Their request for new shelving to be built was still pending financial approval. In the meantime, the new books were sitting in temporary storage in one of the back rooms.
Impatient to share these amazing new books with his fellow soldiers, Armin had made a suggestion – why don't they just display a selection of the books? There was already a small empty bookcase they could use, which could be placed at the front of the library entrance so it was the first thing visitors saw.
He'd been ecstatic when Emilia approved his idea. He secretly hoped the novelty of these foreign books would get more soldiers into reading, and increase the library's popularity. He was already planning to hold an event once they were finally able to unveil the full range of new books. But he was getting ahead of himself - that was probably months away.
Armin had selected a balanced mix of books to display; ranging from novels, collections of poems and short stories, books about the history and culture of other nations, as well as several sociology and psychology guides that he'd found fascinating.
He arranged the books on the shelves loosely by topic. This was only a temporary stand, so the books would later be moved and properly re-ordered when the new shelving was installed. As he picked up a large book about the country of Hizuru, he stared wistfully at cover. It showed a beautiful, sprawling city beside the ocean. The buildings were vastly different from the plain architecture in Paradis – with a focus on elegance and beauty.
He'd love to visit Hizuru, and many other countries someday. He imagined exploring these new places with Eren and Mikasa, just like they'd fantasied about as kids, hardly knowing anything about the outside world. But would their commitments to the Survey Corps ever permit them to travel?
Soon a more urgent problem arose to shatter Armin's daydreams. The top shelf was just slightly out of easy reach for him. The thoughts of fetching a step ladder made him cringe. He was in Floch's direct line of sight, and the idea of being too short to reach the top shelf was mortifying. He did not want to draw any more attention to himself than necessary.
And so he stretched up on his tip-toes, barely managing to slot four of the books on the shelf. Just one more to go, and he'd be finished…
The soft thread of footsteps made him freeze.
"Do you need any help?"
The heavy book slipped out of his fingers and clattered to the floor. He swivelled to see Floch approaching him.
It was like something was squeezing his lungs. He couldn't seem to breath properly. His mind was stuck on the same horrifying, unavoidable thought.
I'm alone. We're the only two people left in the library…
Floch reached down to pick up the fallen book. Straightening, he frowned at Armin. "Did I give you a fright or something?"
Armin didn't answer. He braced himself for the inevitable attack, curling his fists and forcing a ragged breath through his constricted throat.
But nothing happened. Floch's attention was fixed on the book he'd picked up. He flipped it around to the back cover.
Details slowly tricked into Armin's brain – the dark circles under Floch's eyes, his overgrown hair, and a general gauntness to his features that he didn't have before. Armin had purposely avoided being anywhere near Floch ever since the incident. The man now looked like a washed-out version of his former self.
That doesn't mean he's any less dangerous. Armin set his jaw, squaring his shoulders. He won't find me such an easy victim this time…
"Wait," Floch glanced up from the book, to the sign Armin had placed on the bookcase. He pinned him with an accusatory glare. "Are these the new books that you got from abroad? Emilia said you wouldn't be putting these out for months!"
Armin was momentarily startled that Floch had apparently discussed the matter with Emilia. Then again, since he never approached Armin, he obviously went through Emilia to borrow and return books.
Floch's incredulous tone made Armin grit his teeth. Was he accusing him of not doing his job properly?! He waited a few beats to wrestle his irritation under control, and forced his voice into a semblance of calm.
"We don't have room for them all yet. But we decided to display a selection, so people can try them out in the meantime." He hated the defensive tinge to his voice. Why should he have to explain himself?
Floch turned and placed the book on the top shelf, exactly what Armin had tried and failed to do earlier. Then he scanned the rest of the bookcase.
"Can I borrow one of them now?"
Armin was on the verge of saying no. He wanted Floch to get out of here as soon as possible. But would the man get angry if he refused him?
Heart hammering, he said, "Yes."
"Damn it, what should I pick…" Floch scowled at the bookcase, hands on his hips. "Have you read any of them? What would you recommend?"
Armin said the first thing that came into his head. "Here," he leaned in to grab a familiar thick volume. "This is the first of the fantasy books I read. It's still my favourite."
Floch accepted the book with raised eyebrows. "What the hell is that on the cover, a titan lizard with wings?!"
"No, it's a dragon."
"Oh." Floch gave a snort of laughter. "Alright, I'll give it a go."
Armin could barely process what was going on. He kept waiting for Floch to hit him with the book or something. But nothing of the sort happened. The man just stared at him impatiently.
"So… can you check it out for me?"
Armin's brain was scrambled. He needed to get a grip on himself. "Sure," he replied.
Floch strolled ahead of him to the reception desk, flicking to the first page of the book. Armin followed on shaky legs.
He pulled out a large book from behind the desk, where they recorded check-out information. Floch handed him the fantasy novel. As Armin took it, their fingers brushed.
Memories of the last time Floch touched him prised their way into Armin's mind. The fear, shame, and helplessness… Being reduced to a sobbing, pathetic mess before Eren and Mikasa intervened to save him…
He dimly processed that Floch had walked off back to his table in the corner, to collect his bag and the other book he'd been reading. This snapped him back into action. He quickly recorded the book's information, and placed it on the counter so he wouldn't have to hand it back.
As Floch returned to put the book in his bag, a flicker of a smirk crossed his lips. It reminded Armin of so many times during their cadet years – right before Floch was about to voice a disparaging comment.
"Well Armin, this book better be good. Otherwise I'll be holding you personally responsible for wasting my time."
The words sent an icy shiver down his spine. He didn't reply, not trusting himself to speak.
So, do you like working here?" Floch asked, with the air of someone making casual small-talk. "You must find it better than training all the time, right?"
What does he mean by that? Is he trying to remind me of what a useless soldier I am?!
Armin forced himself to meet the other man's gaze properly for the first time. He was proud of the work he did here. He wouldn't let Floch turn it into an insult against him.
"Yes, I love this job." He plastered a carefree smile on his face. "Is there anything else you need?"
Floch opened and closed his mouth, as if on the verge of speaking. Had he been surprised by Armin's casual tone? Disappointed that he hadn't burst into tears like the last time they'd spoken?
Smug satisfaction washed over Armin. He couldn't ever remember a time when he'd gotten the upper hand over Floch Forster.
"I just wanted to say-" He grimaced and shook his head, snatching up his book. "Never mind. I'll see you around." The man turned on his heel and strode out of the library.
Armin's stomach felt like a giant knot had just unravelled. He collapsed into a chair, running his hands over his face.
Why had Floch chosen now to approach him, after avoiding him for so long? His offer of 'help' with the books on the high shelf was no doubt intended to make Armin feel inferior. Not to mention the comment about his job. Was this his new method of torturing him? Through passive aggressive remarks and sly actions?
A part of him roared in indignation at how blandly he'd dealt with the situation. After all the mistreatment he'd suffered from Floch during their cadet years, he was going to just smile politely and put up with this crap all over again?
But what good was dredging up the past? No, I was right to ignore his snide comments, Armin reassured himself. I'll be the better person, and pretend it doesn't affect me anymore.
He tried not to dwell on what Floch had been about to say before he left. It was certainly nothing good.
The night of the graduation party scratched yet again against his mind. It was always like this – he knew he should just put the incident behind him, but he kept returning to it, like a painful scab he couldn't ignore. All Armin had done was try to reassure Floch after he'd failed to get accepted into the Military Police. Floch's reaction had been to unleash a tirade of insults at him.
"You think I'm the one with problems?! Take a look at yourself Armin - you're a pathetic weakling that everyone pities. Your friends despise you for being so fucking useless all the time. And you'll never change, you'll always be worthless and a burden on everyone else. I might not have made it into the Military Police, but you're the one with no future…"
Armin knew Floch had just been lashing out at the first person he could. But those toxic words soaked into him like poison, festering deep inside of him. Was there a hint of truth to these awful accusations? Did his friends resent him for always needing their help, and pity him for his weakness?
A shadow of the terror from that night engulfed him once more. Floch had seized Armin's wrists while he screamed into his face, his grip unrelenting and cold. Armin couldn't get away. He wasn't strong enough. He couldn't even speak. His eyes blurred and burned with tears as Floch's furious words resounded in his head like canon blasts. He was smothered by the unescapable knowledge that was a weak, useless, pathetic excuse for a soldier...
Of course Armin's feeble struggles had done nothing to deter Floch. The man only stopped when Eren and Mikasa appeared, and Mikasa hurled herself at him with a speed and ferocity only an Ackerman could achieve. Armin had collapsed sobbing on the wet grass. Pitifully grateful for his friends for rescuing him. Like they always did.
But I'm not that person anymore!
Armin pulled his hands away from his face and stared around the library. He thought about all the things he was proud of in his life right now – stacking them up brick by brick to form a wall of reassurance around him. His new job, and all the exciting plans he had to improve and transform the library. His caring and loyal friends; who he didn't need to step in and save him anymore. And the fact that he was having an exhilarating affair with two of the most attractive men in the Survey Corps.
The truth was Armin's life had never been better. Why was he letting the spiteful words of an old bully hold so much power over him?
He checked his watch. It was already past eight, he should have closed the library up ten minutes ago. Irritation prickled him that he'd allowed himself to be so shaken by Floch's appearance.
After locking the front doors, Armin rushed back to his room in the Officers' Quarters. He still needed to shower thoroughly and change before meeting Levi and Erwin at nine.
Excitement for tonight smoothed over his anxieties. He wouldn't allow Floch's unwelcome intrusion to spoil his evening. Nor his lingering nerves about trying anal for the first time with Levi and Erwin.
I'm not the same Armin Arlert I used to be… And I'll prove it to myself tonight.
Levi
Fuck, our guest is certainly enthusiastic tonight, Levi noted with approval.
They were barely in the bedroom door, and Armin had just offered to give them both oral. Levi declined, preferring for him to focus on his partner for now.
Erwin was always so tirelessly selfless during these meetings, looking after everyone else's needs before his own. Levi wanted to make sure he got some pleasure out of tonight first; since the plan was for Levi to be the one who would top Armin later on. All going well, that was.
"Do you want to try out that oral position we showed you last week?" Erwin asked. He kept his tone almost neutral, but Levi caught a flicker of his suppressed interest.
Armin's lips quirked. "Sure."
"For fuck's sake." Levi crossed his arms, hiding his own smile. "Why do I always feel like I'm at a goddamn tea party with you two?"
Erwin laughed. The sound was growing less familiar these last few weeks, with his Commander's duties stealing more and more of his time and energy. These threesome meetings were always a highlight of the week for him. Levi felt the same way. He especially loved to see his partner throw himself into something that wasn't work for a change.
"Apologies if we're boring you, Captain," Erwin said in his serious Commander's voice. "Let's get started, shall we Armin?"
He reached out, gripped Armin by the waist, and lifted him up. The young man yelped and instinctively wrapped his legs around the taller man. Erwin carried him over to the bed and deposited him on the mattress. Armin lay sprawled out on the sheets like some sort of debauched fallen angel, his expression radiant with pure longing.
Well, that's a better reaction than when I tried the same trick two weeks ago, Levi thought wryly. Armin had burst into hysterical laughter when the shorter man had picked him up and flung him over his shoulder. When Levi dumped him on the bed and glared menacingly, Armin just sniggered even harder, tears streaming down his face.
But Armin wasn't laughing now. His eyes were fixed on the still standing Erwin, who had begun pulling off his clothes.
"Are you planning on staying dressed all night?" Levi quipped. He kneeled down on the bed beside Armin, throwing an arm around him. He leaned in and nuzzled his neck the way he knew he loved. At the same time his fingers deftly unbuttoned the man's shirt. As usual, the light floral scent of lavender clung to his skin.
It was becoming one of Levi's favourite fragrances.
Armin tore his gaze away from Erwin. With a bashful smile, he accepted Levi's help in tugging off his shirt, trousers, socks and underwear.
Erwin lay down on the bed, while Levi guided Armin on top of him – so that he was positioned on his hands and knees upside down over the other man, with his head level with his crotch. Levi had no idea if this position even had a proper name. From overhearing other soldiers' stories of their sexual exploits, he gathered some called it 'sixty-nining'.
Erwin's hand grasped Armin's hip, while the other gripped his cock and guided it into his mouth.
Armin's eyes fluttered shut at the sensation. He was still a bit self-conscious when it came to oral sex, and usually kept his eyes closed while performing the act. Sure enough, his hand reached out blindly for the erection underneath him, and after a few strokes, he bent his head down and began sucking on the tip.
I'm sure it doesn't help his nerves to have a third man hovering over him, watching his every move…
"Take your time, don't rush it," Levi murmured, running his hand soothingly over his back.
After a minute, Armin sunk down a little further, and established a slow, steady rhythm.
"That's it," Erwin sighed, before getting back to his own task. He caressed the back of Armin's head with his free hand.
Eager to be more involved, Levi said, "Here, let me help you."
He leaned his hand in under the young man's face and gripped the base of Erwin's cock. He slid his hand up and down in time to the motion of Armin's mouth. All the saliva was a bit off-putting, but Erwin's appreciative groans made it worth the mess.
Plus Armin always enjoyed when the older men took on an instructional role. Levi teasingly called it his 'teacher's kink'. This, combined with his love of receiving praise, created some interesting bedroom dynamics.
"You're so good at sucking that huge dick, Arlert."
Little whimpers escaped from Armin's full mouth. He tried sinking down further, but pulled off with a gagging noise.
"Hey, don't take too much," Levi reminded him. He continued his encouraging words as the young man resumed his task.
He stole a glance up at Erwin – who was fully dedicating his heart to the cock over his face. His hands roamed greedily over Armin's ass and thighs, squeezing and kneading the tender flesh.
Levi feasted on the show in front of him in a state of baffled curiousity. Surely, watching my partner and some sexy young librarian suck each other off shouldn't be this hot?
Saliva and other fluids dribbled down Armin's chin. Levi's own hand, still pumping Erwin's cock under Armin's mouth, was now dripping in drool.
The whole thing was disgusting. But also one of the hottest fucking things Levi had ever seen. It gave him a voyeuristic thrill to watch his partner, the noble and dignified Commander of the Survey Corps, ravenously sucking off the other man. And the sight of soft-mannered Armin Arlert participating in such an obscene act made his own erection give a painful throb.
"You're giving me such a great show, boys." Levi reached up to squeeze the back of Erwin's hand, letting him know the truth of his words.
Erwin pulled off Armin's cock, his face in an even worse state of messiness than Armin's. "I-I'm close," he panted. He reached down to stop the other man's movements.
"You did a brilliant job Arlert. I'll finish him off," Levi said decisively. He didn't know if he'd get another chance tonight to do this for Erwin. They planned to both focus on Armin for the rest of the night, after all.
Armin climbed off Erwin without protest. He gratefully accepted the towel Levi passed him, and wiped his mouth on it.
Meanwhile, Levi assumed control of Erwin. He briefly debated cleaning off some of Armin's saliva first. That was what he'd done previously any time he and Armin took turns giving Erwin oral. But this time, deciding to push past his slight squeamishness, he engulfed the glistening cock in his mouth without hesitation.
"Fuck, Levi," Erwin groaned, tangling his hands in the Captain's dark hair. His half-lidded eyes were trained on the man between his legs. Levi stared right back, hungrily absorbing the desire etched on Erwin's features.
He knew what would make things even better for his partner.
Freeing his mouth briefly, he swiveled his gaze to Armin. "Do you want to help me finish off our Commander?"
A smile lit up Armin's face. "Of course."
He slithered over and lay half on top of the larger man, so their chests were pressed together. He leaned down to kiss him, with a confidence he certainly didn't possess a few weeks ago.
A warm glow suffused Levi as he watched. I never thought the little brat would be such a horny devil in bed. I'm glad he's grown so comfortable exploring his desires with us.
He got back down to work pleasuring Erwin, while Armin took charge of claiming the Commander's mouth. Levi startled when Armin broke the kiss, and reached a hand down to squeeze his shoulder.
"You're so good at that Captain," he said, face flushed. The words were awkward, but sincere.
Levi's stomach fluttered. Armin could have ignored him, and focussed his attention entirely on Erwin. But like always, he made an effort to interact with both men. Right now, with Armin praising and petting him, it felt like their roles were reversed.
Other tantalising possibilities whirled around Levi's head. What would it be like to let Armin fully dominate me? Is it even something he'd be interested in? Perhaps I should discuss how Erwin feels about it first…
Between their combined efforts, it didn't take long for Erwin to give a warning that he was close again. Levi pulled off and continued using his hand instead.
"Here," Armin handed him the towel before he could ask.
With a final moan, Erwin finished into Levi's hand.
"You were both amazing," he said breathlessly. He looked nothing like the dignified Commander now – with his face shiny, hair sticking to his forehead, and a dazed expression covering his features.
Levi's chest swelled with pride. Who would have thought Arlert and I would make such a good team?
After a quick clean-up, they rested on the bed together for a few minutes.
"Do you still want to carry on with our plan, Armin?" Levi asked.
"Definitely." The librarian's face shone with enthusiasm.
The 'plan', as they'd previously discussed, was to try out some anal play with Armin for the first time. He'd successfully managed to finger himself on his own recently, so this was a positive start. All going well, the plan was for Levi to try topping Armin afterwards.
I bet he'd prefer if Erwin was the one fucking him tonight…
Levi's heart clenched with something that might have been jealousy. Then as usual, he shook it off. He couldn't blame Armin for his preferences. Erwin was simply more adapt at putting others at ease. Hell, Levi knew better than anyone how irresistible his partner's charms were.
Besides, Armin had shown plenty of interest in Levi so far. Far more than Levi had expected, or probably deserved. It was gratifying to see the young man grow increasingly more comfortable in his presence. But Levi still didn't trust himself enough to always say or do the right thing around him. It took a lot of effort to tone down some of his remarks, and think before he spoke.
They'd discussed the matter of anal sex at length after last week's encounter. While Erwin was theoretically the better choice for Armin's first time, his intimidating size proved problematic. Armin had agreed that he'd be happy to have Levi top him instead.
Of course, Erwin would still be involved. But Levi would get the honour of being the first man Armin ever had inside him.
Levi took a steadying breath. "Alright Armin, let's take care of you now, shall we?" He hoped his voice didn't betray his nerves.
They got into position – with Armin lying down in the centre of the bed, and Erwin stretched out beside him. Levi moved down to knell between the young man's legs. Wanting to relax him first before starting any anal play, he sank his mouth down on Armin's cock.
Soon, the blond was breathing heavily, making little panting noises. His eyelids squeezed shut, as though the sight of his superior pleasuring him in this way was too overwhelming for him to handle.
Levi always loved watching Erwin coming apart under his care. It was the very same with Armin. His own erection ached in response to each little gasp from Armin's lips, and every involuntary wriggle of his hips.
Erwin was clearly enjoying the display too. His features were clouded with lust, a possessive gleam in his eyes. His fingers clasped the back of Levi's head as he moved up and down on Armin's length. His other hand combed through the librarian's hair, fanned out messily on the pillow.
"Are you ready for more? Should I get the oil?" Erwin asked. Levi heard the suppressed spike of excitement in his voice.
He freed his mouth so he could properly look at Armin. He wanted to be sure the man still wanted this, and didn't feel pressured to carry on now they'd started.
"Yes, I'm ready," Armin whispered, his face flushed beautifully with arousal. "Are both of you still ok with this too?"
Levi appreciated how Armin double-checked things with them, in the same way they always did with him. While the constant questions could sometimes be tiresome, it was better to be safe than sorry. Especially in an arrangement like this.
It was blatantly obvious that Erwin wanted things to proceed. But instead of answering Armin, he squeezed his partner's hand. "How do you feel darling? Do you still want to try this?"
"Yeah." The single word was raspy and dry, a struggle for the Captain to push out of his tight throat.
And not because he didn't want this.
He'd fantasied about fucking Armin ever since the man had walked in on him and Erwin two months ago. But now he was actually about to do it, his nerves were choking his confidence.
Damn it, Erwin would be so much better at this! What if I mess it up by doing or saying the wrong thing?
He reigned in his scattered emotions, and decided to be upfront about his fears. "Don't be shy about telling me to stop, or slow down, or whatever, alright? I only want this so long as you do too."
Armin nodded. He expression was so solemn, that Levi half expected him to salute too. A smile tugged at his lips.
I may not be as skilled as Erwin, but I'm still capable of giving Armin a pleasurable first time, he resolved. Just like how Erwin did for me.
Erwin passed Levi the lubricant oil and a fresh towel from the bedside cabinet. Levi gripped Armin's legs, and pulled them up closer towards his body. He felt him trembling under his hands.
"You ok?" Levi asked. He ran his hands up and down Armin's thighs in soothing motions.
"Y-yeah." Armin bit his lip, his eyes shining with determination. "Go ahead."
Luckily, Erwin swooped down and captured Armin's mouth in a soft kiss. He ran a hand down his chest and stomach, and tangled the other in his hair. Armin moaned into his mouth, and the sound sent a flame of heat rushing through Levi's groin.
Only when Levi was sure the man was completely at ease between them, did he pour some oil on his fingers and carefully start teasing his entrance. Armin jumped a little at the unusual sensation. Erwin slid his hand down to stroke Armin's erection, helping him relax again.
"Tell us what feels good, all right Armin?" Erwin trailed kisses along his neck and collar. "We just want to look after you."
"You're being such a good boy for us," Levi said in the gentlest voice he could muster.
Their murmured encouragement and soft touches stopped him from tensing up too much. Levi's progress was slow, but he managed to insert a finger most of the way in. After some wriggling around, he brushed a spot that made Armin squirm, his mouth hanging open in a silent gasp. It didn't take long before his lithe body was writhing against the sheets, broken whimpers escaping from his lips.
Since Erwin preferred to top, Levi had a limited experience in performing this act. He watched mesmerised as Armin struggled to contain his enjoyment. The power of giving someone such raw, carnal pleasure was intoxicating.
Levi managed to slide another finger in, and then later, a third.
Erwin's gaze was heavy as he absorbed the sight of Levi's fingers pumping slowly in and out. "Can I touch you too, Armin?" he asked, not bothering to hide his enthusiasm.
Armin's eyelids fluttered open. His mouth twisted in an embarrassed smile. "Um, ok," he replied, unable to meet Erwin's eyes.
As much as Levi wanted to keep going, the thoughts of watching Armin getting finger fucked by his Commander was pretty damn hot. And so he swapped places with Erwin. While his partner fingered Armin, Levi held and encouraged the young man.
"Anything in particular you want me to do, Arlert?" Levi growled, keen to put himself at the man's service.
The librarian's lips opened and closed silently.
"It's alright, don't be shy." Levi softened his voice. "This whole part of the night is about pleasing you, after all."
"Can… can you hold me down?" Armin whispered, face open and imploring. "You know, the way Erwin did to you last week?"
Levi was not expecting him to ask for that right now.
Armin had been very jumpy in their early encounters when it came to tight embraces, or anytime he felt too confined. But recently it didn't seem to bother him as much. Levi guessed he was just getting to trust him and Erwin more and more with each meeting. Last week, after seeing Erwin pinning Levi's hands above his head during sex, he said he'd be interested in being held down like that sometime.
Is now really a good time to try it out? Still, he's the one asking for it. Maybe it's a secret kink of his that he's ashamed of. I know what that feels like…
"Alright," Levi said gruffly. He couldn't deny the idea of the librarian surrendering control to him was irresistibly sexy. "But tell me if you want me to stop."
He leaned over Armin, gripping his wrists (not too tightly) and pressing them over his head on the mattress. Erwin continued fingering him, keeping his gaze fixed on Armin's face to make sure everything was ok.
Levi's worries dissolved at Armin's reaction. He threw his head back on the pillow, back arching, sucking in shaky breaths.
"Does that feel good?"
"Ahhh, yes," Armin moaned. "Can you do it h-harder? And… can you talk to me?"
A shared thrill echoed through Levi. He knew the exquisite pleasure of feeling completely dominated by someone you trusted. And right now, Armin had two men in dual control of him.
The lucky brat, Levi thought fondly. What I wouldn't give to be in his situation! Well, I'll indulge his little fantasy if that's what he wants…
Levi tightened his grip on the man's wrists, fingers digging into the soft skin. He spoke the first words that sprang to mind – the type of thing he'd enjoy if he was in Armin's position.
"Fuck Arlert, you look so good under our control," he growled in his ear, pinning his wrists deeper into the mattress. "By the time the Commander and I done with you, you'll be nothing but a pitiful, whimpering mess."
Armin's body went rigid.
Levi loosened his grip. When the other man's fists clenched he let go entirely.
Shit! Did I go too far? I thought that's what he wanted!
"Are you alright?" Levi asked, the question tumbling out of his mouth. Erwin had stopped fingering Armin, and was peering at him in concern.
"Y-yeah. I – I just need a minute." The words were barely a murmur. Armin's chest rose and fell with rapid, shallow breaths. His eyes stared blindly at the wall and his mouth twisted in agitation.
"Of course." Erwin moved up the bed to lie on his other side. He placed a comforting hand on his arm. "What's wrong?"
Armin sucked in a ragged breath. "I-I'm sorry, I d-don't know h-how to explain," His voice was shrill, like he was holding back a torrent of emotions. He drew his legs up to his chest and wrapped his arms around himself.
"That's fine Armin. Why don't you get under the covers and try to relax?"
The librarian nodded and climbed under the duvet. Erwin pulled on some pyjamas, and went to the bathroom to wash his hands. Levi followed suit. Before they headed back to the bedroom, Erwin paused at the door and appraised Levi soberly. He must be so angry with me, I totally fucked everything up!
Levi wanted to speak, to apologise to his partner for ruining the night, for upsetting the man they were both responsible for. But his dry throat refused to co-operate.
Erwin stepped forward and pulled him into a tight embrace. "These things happen, darling. We'll talk to him and find out what's wrong. Alright?"
Levi's eyes prickled. He didn't deserve this kindness. He managed to huff out an agreement, and they pulled apart and returned to the bedroom.
Erwin climbed into bed beside Armin, and Levi did the same on his other side. The man's shoulders were hunched and his legs drawn up, face turned towards the pillow.
His sorrow was a punch to Levi's gut. And he had no idea what to do to make it better.
Erwin wrapped an arm around Armin and murmured soothing words, telling him it was ok to be upset and that he was safe with them. The only helpful thing Levi could think to do was hand the man some tissues to wipe his tear-stained face.
"Can you tell us what we did wrong?" Erwin asked gently.
"It's not your fault." Armin glanced at Levi, features full of misery. "It - it was just what you said, it made me think of something else… it's so s-stupid, I totally overreacted!"
What the fuck had Levi even said? He couldn't remember, it was something about turning Armin into a pathetic, whimpering mess. Had it sounded too aggressive, too intimidating? Combined with the vulnerable position the man had been in, perhaps it had been overwhelming.
"I'm so sorry Armin." Levi wanted to take his hand, but what if that upset him more? Panic strangled him and he wanted nothing more than to flee the room. After all, Erwin was so much better dealing with these sorts of emotional situations. But he didn't want to abandon Armin while he was like this.
Erwin pulled Armin into an embrace, but the smaller man remained agitated.
"I've just ruined the whole night." He rubbed furiously at his wet, red eyes. "I better go, I've wasted enough of your time."
Erwin winced. "You're still upset Armin. I'm – we're not comfortable letting you leave until you've calmed down. Is there anything we can do to make you feel better?"
Levi's heart twisted as he lay uselessly beside Armin. He could understand his need for privacy and to quietly sort out his own feelings. But Erwin was right. They couldn't let him walk out of here in this state.
Levi desperately wanted to comfort the man – perhaps to tell him about the trouble he'd had with sex in his early relationship with Erwin. Would that reassure Armin that this wasn't anything to be ashamed of? But Levi couldn't quite get the words out. His mind was a storm, battering him with his failures and worthlessness.
Damn it, I could do with taking a hot bath right now. That always helps calm me down at times like this…
Wait. Could the same thing help Armin?
"Do you want a bath?" Levi blurted out. "It might help you relax."
Armin turned to him, face scrunched up with apology. "I… I really don't want to impose on you any longer. I've already spoiled all our plans for tonight."
"Darling, you're not imposing. Our main concern is you right now, not our plans." Erwin spoke with heartfelt conviction. Then uncertainty flickered across his features as he realised what he'd said.
Darling... he only ever called Levi that.
The term of endearment had obviously been a slip of the tongue. Erwin was exhausted after a long week, and this was a demanding situation. Levi felt like he should be annoyed over the mistake. And yet, he was more concerned about Armin right now.
"That's right. We just want to make you feel better," Levi said firmly. "I'll run the bath for you now if you like?" He sat up, eager to finally be able to take some useful action.
Armin chewed his lip before nodding. Erwin pulled him into another embrace. This time he melted into his touch, pillowing his head on the larger man's chest.
As Levi exited the bedroom, his mind prickled unpleasantly at leaving their guest in the arms of his partner. This wasn't supposed to happen – he and Erwin had agreed that physical contact with Armin would only happen with both of them present.
But it wasn't like either of the other men had planned this. And Armin certainly wasn't to blame. Levi had been the one to fuck things up and upset him. How could he feel any sort of resentment towards the young man?
I won't begrudge Erwin comforting him either. He's only tidying up after my mistakes. This wasn't how he wanted the night to go…
Levi began running the bath, adjusting the hot and cold taps to reach the right temperature. Grabbing a bottle from his stash of products under the sink, he poured the liquid into the hot water. The heavy scent of jasmine filled the steamy bathroom. He hoped Armin liked it – it was one of his favourite fragrances. The expensive bottle had been a gift from Erwin, actually.
Levi's fingers shook as he recapped the bottle. He perched on the edge of the bath and put his head in his hands.
Would Armin be able to relax enough to tell them exactly what had upset him? They needed to make sure it never happened again. What would they do if he refused to discuss it any further… at what point did they decide they'd carried out their responsibility towards him, and let him leave?
Fuck. I hope Erwin knows how to deal with this better than I do.
Then a sudden thought sent icy tendrils trickling down Levi's back.
Wait… what if… what if Armin wants to end things with us after this?
Notes: Prepare for some angst next chapter, but I promise it won't be dragged out. We're about to see some interesting developments for the threesome relationship too!
We're about halfway through the story now (there's 12+ chapters left, depending on how I split the content). The storylines are well underway and we're getting into some of the more interesting parts of the plot in my humble opinion.
So what are your thoughts on Floch's reappearance, why do you think he approached Armin? And what about the threesome – do you like how it's progressing? What do you think will happen next after this little disaster? And can you believe Erwin called Armin 'darling'?! (I'm still shocked, I didn't even plan for that to happen).
Please remember that while I give the characters a hard time, everything is for a reason and things will never get too heavy (but feel free to rant at me if you need!) Thanks for reading my friends!
I'm on Twitter at SweetScofield ❤️