Chapter Text
The morning of Armin's next recital some two years later, he doesn't lay an outfit out for Eren. Neither does he set alarms on his phone. Not one.
Instead, they get ready together. Eren opts for jeans and a red polo.
"You look nice, Eren." Armin means it; once they get back home, he's tearing that shirt straight off.
"So do you," Eren replies. "Oh, here. Your tie's a little loose." Armin did his best. It took a Youtube video and some choice words to get it right.
"All better."
No unfortunate bike rides in the rain this time— they travel together to the venue, and it only feels real when Eren's finally sitting next to Armin, hands clasped.
He leans in, whispering, "I'm so excited to see my baby perform."
Armin manages a weak smile, then squeezes Eren's hand.
Is the buzzing in Armin's bones excitement or anxiety? What if he messes up and forgets a whole section? Or passes out and bangs his face on the keys? He rehearses in his head a few more times, feeling the keys beneath his fingers.
The intermediate students probably do well.
"It's your turn!" Eren whispers gleefully, and releases his hand.
Huh, he was really paying attention, wasn't he?
Armin stands. Walks up. He doesn't have to adjust the bench. Eren is here. Hands placed on the keys-
He only makes a few mistakes, and he covers them up well. After the final chord, all he has left to do is stand.
Applause. Somebody in the audience shoots up like a rocket and claps thunderously. Eren. People don't usually… do that, but it makes Armin feel special.
At last, he makes sure to lock eyes with Eren, and beam at him all the pride and love in his heart.
He bows.