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Jean Kirstein is a natural flirt, everyone knows this. A majority of his friends he’d flirted with at least once, some of them he even dated. So when a new (and very attractive) kid transferred into his 3rd-period science class, he made plans to flirt with the blond boy. Apparently, this mystery boy had gone to a private school across the way but recently transferred into Trost High due to financial issues. That was the extent he knew about this kid, and who knew if that was even true, the information came from one Connie Springer, and everyone knows he's not the most reliable source.
Nevertheless, the second he entered their classroom he immediately caught Jean's eye. With his stupid little helmet hair and geeky little glasses, he was so damn cute.
“I’m gonna date him,” Jean told Connie confidently as the two of them pretended to work on their lab. Procrastination was their strong suit. “I’m gonna date the fuck out of that kid, he won't even know what hit him.”
“Dude,” Connie groaned, using the tweezers they were given to play with some chemical substance he definitely shouldn't be playing with. “That sounded so wrong.”
“What sounded wrong?” Jean’s ex-boyfriend-turned-best-friend, Marco asked as he walked up with more supplies they didn't plan on using. “Mx. Hange said they can tell we’re not working.”
“They’ll get over it,” Jean replied, his chin laying in his palm as he stared at the lab table across from them that housed the certain topic at hand. The blond’s lab partner was none other than Eren Jaeger, that fucking prick. Jean felt a tinge of jealousy tickle his chest.
“Jean has found his new prey,” Connie teased, knocking his elbow on the table, causing Jean to lose his balance and fall onto the table with a loud bang. “That new blond kid over there with Jaeger.”
“Dude!” Jean exclaimed, rubbing the side of his head that just slammed onto the table. He raised his hand and slapped the back of Connie’s head. “Not everyone has a big ass hard head like you, that fucking hurt.”
“Boys!” Their teacher, Mx. Hange, shouted from the front of the classroom, “Stop slacking off and get to work. Don’t think I won't separate you, I have that power.”
“Sorry, Hange.” The three of them apologized in sync, turning back to their still untouched lab supplies.
“Why is he working with Jaeger? The poor kid is going to get corrupted by that asshole.” Jean groaned, his eyes still watching as his new infatuation stood just a little too close to Eren then Jean would have liked. He watched as Eren said something, (probably something really stupid and dumb and unfunny), and the blond next to him laughed. Like, genuinely, full-body laughed.
I take it back pretty blond boy, if you think he’s funny, Eren Jaeger is the funniest guy in the world. Jean thought. I’m funnier though. Me, Jean Kirstein. Wanna come find out? I can make you laugh so hard you can't breathe.
“Already jealous? You are horrendous, Jean. I feel bad for blondie, he’s gotta deal with your sorry ass.” Connie laughed, leaning back in his stool.
“He’s got a name you know,” Marco informed, finally starting to work on the lab that Connie and Jean neglected to do. “His name is Armin Arlert, he and Eren are childhood best friends.”
Jean’s attention was immediately snatched from the pretty blond, who he now knows name is Armin, (a beautiful name for a beautiful boy), and over to his freckled friend. “And you kept this information to yourself, why?” He scowled, watching as Marco smirked to himself. “Marco! Are you secretly still in love with me? My old middle school boyfriend turned best friend, sorry Connie , has betrayed me. I’ve been pining over this kid all period!”
Connie frowned and kicked Jean’s shin, “Asshole! I thought we were best friends!”
“Yeah, yeah, okay Connie.” Jean waved him away, still looking at Marco. “How do you know this?”
Marco shrugged, recording information into his lab book below him, he seemed so unbothered by Jean’s urgent tone. “We eat lunch in the library together sometimes.”
Jean could kill his freckled best friend right here on the spot. “Marco!” He whined, hiding his head in his arms flat on the cold table. “You're such an asshole!” He looked up, his eyes meeting with a satisfied look on Marco’s face. “Do you like to torture me? Do you like to see me in pain?”
“Maybe,” Marco laughed, “We’re eating lunch today in the library, okay? Stop by and I’ll introduce you. Now, will you get off my back and actually participate in this group lab?”
Jean rolled his eyes, followed by Connie groaning next to him. “Fine,” Jean scoffed, picking up an extra pair of goggles from the table and slipping them on his head. He took the last pair and shoved them into Connie's chest.
Jean took one last glance at Armin as Connie whined next to him, saying something about not wanting to work, but Jean ignored him to admire the blond boy across the room.
I’ll bring my A-game Armin, just for you.
Thus started, the first time Jean tried, and miserably failed, to flirt with Armin Arlert.
Marco is a stupid nerd who insists on eating lunch in the library every day so he can study, when they dated back in Junior High and then into Grade 9, Jean thought this was the cutest thing ever. But, two years later after a healthy break-up, and Jean thinks it's the most annoying shit ever. (Imagine your best friend refusing to eat lunch with you because he wants to be somewhere quiet to study. Annoying as shit. He is forced to eat lunch with Connie and Sasha every day because of it. He loves them dearly, but those two are walking headaches.)
Jean and Marco’s breakup had been an easy one, they just simply weren’t compatible in a romantic sense anymore. Jean had almost expected it, the two of them had been dating since 7th grade and they had both changed a lot since then. Thankfully, they decided to stay friends, after a short break to recover from their unfortunate breakup, and now the two of them are closer than ever.
Maybe even a little too close? Is it weird to have your ex-boyfriend, the first person you ever loved, set you up with his new blond friend?
That would be a topic for another time, Jean decided as he walked toward the school library that next lunch after their previous conversation. Jean could probably count on one hand how many times he had stepped into this building willingly. Most of the time he was only ever in here for Marco, and only seemed to stay for short periods of time. Once, Connie had come with him and it had been a disaster. That kid has no idea what an inside voice is. Jean laughed at the thought as he pushed through the library doors.
“The fuck are you laughing at, Kirstein?” A certain annoying voice rang from in front of him. Jean rolled his eyes as he looked up to see Eren standing in front of him.
Jean smirked and bumped against Eren’s shoulder. “Your ugly mug, Jaeger.” He scoffed, turning to walk backwards to look at Eren. “Your dumbass better not be late to 6th period later. Mrs. Ral is gonna kill us if we don't turn in our project today.”
Eren rolled his eyes and nodded, swiping back his fallen hairs from the dumb-ass ponytail he was trying to pull off. Jean and Eren had an interesting relationship if it was even that. For a majority of their schooling, they were in art classes together, so they kind of had no choice but to bond. Sure, Eren was annoying as fuck and a bit too much for Jean’s taste, but deep down he was an okay guy. Jean would be lying if he said he didn't at least respect the guy.
Honestly, after all those years of friendship, Jeans was a little hurt that Eren never talked about his adorable childhood best friend.
Remembering his destination, Jean continued his journey into the library. A few minutes later, due to him getting lost more than a few times, (seriously this place is a damn maze), Jean finally made it into the main lobby of the library to be greeted by his tall freckled friend and a blond head of hair sitting across from him. Jean's stomach was tied in knots as he saw Marco look up to him. The brunette said something to the blond Jean couldn't make out, causing the latter to turn around in his chair and look at Jean.
Jean almost passed out. Armin wore a bright smile on his face, his bangs cascading a shadow over his small glasses on the bridge of his nose, yet his bright blue eyes shone through the lenses. His long blond hair was tucked neatly behind his ears to reveal the cutest earrings in his ear lobes.
This just keeps getting better and better. Jean thought to himself, making his way over to the table.
“Hey, Marco,” Jean nodded, plopping himself down next to the blond. Ballsy move, Kirstein. “Hey,” Jean greeted, placing his brown paper bag on the table. “You're Jaeger's friend, right? I’m Jean.” He made sure to flash one of his award-winning smiles the smaller boy's way. Armin, God Bless him, flashed one back and Jean almost passed out for a second time. This kid hadn't even said one word to him and already Jean was a goner.
“Yes, hello.” Armin greeted, using his slender fingers to push up his falling glasses. Jean watched intensely, studying his every movement. “I’m Armin, though, I’m sure you already knew that.” He blushed, fully blushed. (This kid is too much). Jean noticed how a blush collected at the tips of his ears. “It’s great to meet you, Jean. Marco has told me about you, as has Eren.”
Jean gulped so loud he was sure Connie could hear it from the courtyard, despite his nerves, he kept a smile on his face. “You too, Armin.” He replied, “I hope Freckles over here told you only good things, and don't listen to Jaeger, he's a piece of shit.” He joked, afraid maybe he was too harsh.
To his luck, Armin laughed and cast his eyes over the table in front of him. “Eren is a piece of work, but he's a good guy.” He admitted, tucking a piece of hair behind his ear, “Marco would never talk badly about anyone.” The blond smiled, looking over to their shared friend who blushed shyly in return. “You guys dated right?”
Jean deflated.
Really Marco? Really?! You gotta go ahead and tell the sweetest boy that has ever existed on planet earth that his one normal (cough Eren Jaeger cough) friend and the guy trying to pursue him are ex-boyfriends. He’s never going to want to date me now!
Challenge accepted.
Jean sat up straight and nodded, leaning across the table to bump his fist into Marco’s shoulder. “That we did! My middle school sweetheart. We were star-crossed lovers, the nerd and the prep. Then, good old Marco here started getting sick of me and dumped my sorry ass.” Jean joked, causing a small giggle to fall from Armin’s lips. “Now, here I am. Two years later, having just done recovered from my heartbreak. Oh, Armin!” Jean exclaimed, wrapping a strong arm around frail shoulders. “Who can fill this void mean old Marco left?” He smirked, leaning onto Armin’s side.
The grumpy librarian from across the room shushed Jean. The small boy laughed again, this time at Jean’s expense. I’ll take it.
“Armin, don't listen to him. He’s so dramatic,” Marco groaned, marking his place in whatever book he was reading. “We did date, yes. But I would never touch Jean again with a ten-foot stick.” He smirked, directly over at Jean.
Marco, I fucking hate you.
“Whatever,” Jean rolled his eyes, slipping his hand off of Armin’s shoulders.
“Alright, well,” Marco started again, shoving his things in his backpack, “I gotta turn in some photos for Yearbook so I’ll see you guys later yeah?”
Armin nodded in confirmation and Jean thanked his lucky stars.
I take it back, Marco. You're the best bro ever. Literally a godsend, I could kiss you right now if that wouldn't be really weird.
“Have fun you two,” Marco smirked, patting Jean on the back as he walked away. Immediately, Jean turned to the small blond sitting next to him. Time to lay down the moves.
“Libraries are boring,” Jean spoke, “Let’s get out of here.”
After about a second of consideration, Armin agreed.
Jean internally celebrated.
☆༓･*˚⁺‧‧͙⁺˚*･༓☆
Jean learned four things about Armin during that lunch period. One, he walks really fast. Like, concerningly fast. Like, ‘what the fuck, where does this kid have to be?’ fast. He’s got shorter legs than Jean and even he had to run to catch up with him when the distance between them became too great. For some reason, he found it terribly cute.
This brings us to the second thing, (one which he already knew), Armin Arlert is so damn cute.
It doesn't seem right, nor legal for anyone to be that cute. His blond hair reflects the sun in such a way that mixed with his contagious, bright smile, blinds everyone around him. His laugh is literally the best sound Jean has ever heard in his entire life. His eyes are so blue, and so deep that Jean could stare for hours. His hands are small and skinny, also shaky and insanely cold. Jean wants to hold them in his own and warm them up.
But, the cutest thing about Armin by far, are his small mannerisms. Jean doesn't think that Armin even realizes he does these little things, but to anyone who even slightly pays attention, they're very obvious. He moves in such a calculated way, it's like he plans every single step that he takes, and thinks about the risks of every one of those steps. Every 11 seconds, (Jean counted), Armin is doing one of two things. He’s either pushing his slim glasses up his nose, ( which by the way, oh my god his glasses are so fucking cute), or tucks his blond hair behind his ear. It's distracting, the way his fingers contort around the wire of his frames or the thin strands of his golden hair and push.
The third thing Jean learned about Armin is that he is obsessed with Eren Jaeger. Not that Jean could ever dislike anything about the blond, but this one has to be one of his least favorites. This kid talks about Eren more than Eren talks about himself, which is quite a lot. Every story Eren somehow makes his way in. It would almost be annoying if it wasn't so intriguing. Jean wants to know more, he wants to figure out why in the world a sweet boy like Armin would be so obsessed with that trash monster. The thought makes me dizzy, out of curiosity and possibly jealousy.
The fourth thing is that Armin Arlert is the most oblivious person to ever walk planet earth. The poor boy is literally a certified genius, he’s probably the smartest person Jean has ever met in his whole life, yet he can't pick up a social cue to save his damn life.
All of Jean’s attempts at flirting were not shut down, no, they were never even picked up on in the first place. Jean complimented Armin’s hair, Armin talked about how he wanted to cut it off. (That one felt like a personal attack). Jean told Armin he had beautiful eyes, Armin told him sometimes he thinks they're too big. Jean told Armin he was cute, Armin disagreed.
Jean asked if Armin wanted to see a movie sometime, Armin asked if Eren could tag along.
If it was socially acceptable, Jean would scream. Like, full-body scream. Instead, he looked at Armin with a smile and nodded. Then, he invited Connie and Sasha too. And then, Armin invited Marco and Eren’s sister Mikasa to join as well. Soon, Jean's sad attempt at asking Armin on a date turned into one big group journey to the movie theaters.
It carried on like this for weeks, Jean would meet Marco and Armin in the library, Marco would make up some excuse to leave, and Jean and Armin would go on a walk around the perimeter of the school. Jean would shamelessly flirt and Armin would not pick up on any of it.
There had to be a reason Armin didn't get it because Jean thought he was being pretty damn obvious. He would touch Armin every chance he could, he would call him cute, compliment him, offer to carry his things. He even started buying Armin lunch every Saturday, as well as driving Armin to and from school every day. It was frustrating but intriguing.
Then, stupid-ass Connie Springer planted a poisonous idea in Jean’s head.
“Maybe he’s dating someone,” Connie suggested as he, Marco, Jean, and Sasha were spread around the floor of Connie's bedroom doing their science homework. They weren't so much doing it, more so copying off Marco. Sasha, who wasn’t in their science class, was just there for moral support. Wherever Connie was, Sasha was most likely there too.
“Maybe he’s dating Jaeger,” Connie continued, peering over to Marco’s practice sheet.
“Oh god, I’m gonna throw up,” Jean groaned from his place on the floor, he had given up long ago on doing any work. A certain blond boy consumed his every thought as he stared up at the ceiling. “Armin is perfect, like actually perfect. Eren is a literal monster, there’s no way Armin would ever date a guy like that.”
“I don't know, Jean,” Sasha chimed in from next to Connie, her words muffled by the chips stuffed into her mouth. “You don't see how they all interact. Whenever I hang out with Mikasa, Eren seems like a pretty cool dude. He and Armin get along really really well.”
Jean sat up and scowled at her before reaching into her bag of chips and taking some for himself. Eren and Armin dating would make sense since the kid literally never shuts up about his annoying friend. Jean quickly shook the mental image out of his brain and focused back on the conversation at hand. “Shut up, Sasha. Your opinion is immediately invalid on any type of relationship advice since you've been pining over the same girl for two years.”
“Serious, Sash,” Connie nodded, looking up from his worksheet. “For the sake of all of us, please ask Mikasa out already, it's getting kind of old.”
Sasha pouted and retreated to Connie's bed, taking her bag of chips along with her as punishment to the boys.
Jean sighed and turned back to his abandoned homework, “Marco, do you really think Armin and Eren could be dating?”
“I don't know, Jean,” Marco sighed, “Why don't you just ask the guy?”
☆༓･*˚⁺‧‧͙⁺˚*･༓☆
Every Saturday Jean has the same schedule. Wake up around noon, get dressed and ready, have a pep talk in the mirror, go to Connie's place of work (A pizza parlor down the street), buy two slices of pizza, and show up at a certain blond boy's doorstep. Every day without fail, Armin answers with a smile on his face, and the two of them walk down to the park nearest his house and eat together.
Jean usually uses this as a prime time to learn everything there is to know about Armin. This time Jean learned that Armin, in fact, does not like pizza.
“Armin,” Jean deadpanned, looking at the blond boy beside him, the bench they always sat on was small, causing their legs to press against each other every time. Jean thanked whoever chose to put this particular bench in this particular park. “I've been buying you a slice of pizza every Saturday for like a month now and you're just telling me right now that you don't like pizza?”
Armin laughed softly, his eyes closing in delight. “I’m sorry, Jean!” He apologized through laughter, “I just thought it was so cute that you showed up with lunch for me every weekend, I never said anything.”
Cute. Mother-fucking cute.
Jean is almost positive that if he saw himself right now, he would punch himself square in the face, solely based on the fact of how smitten he was for this boy. Jean was sure he was blushing from head to toe, which in turn made Armin flush a bright red.
Armin Arlert just called him cute. This was probably the best day of Jean’s whole life.
“I– I mean–” Armin stumbled over his words, hands flying in front of his face. Jean smirked at the boy's embarrassment. “–it was a nice, um, sentiment. I didn't want to upset you because you’ve been nothing but friendly to me and I’m so grateful for anything you buy me and I’ll eat it because–”
Jean wasn't even listening to Armin’s nervous stumbling at this point, he was just watching his lips move. Without thinking, Jean cut off Armin’s rambling. “Are you dating Jaeger?” He blurted.
Armin’s words died in his mouth as he let out a soft laugh, “What?” He asked, his dark brows knit together in confusion.
“Are you dating Jaeger?” Jean repeated, his eyes darting all over Armin’s face.
“God, no!” Armin exclaimed, an embarrassed blush gathering on his cheeks, “Eren’s my best friend. I could never date him. Plus, he doesn't like guys.”
“Yeah, cause who the fuck would date that guy?” Jean questioned, celebrating in his brain. Armin is single, I think.
Armin rolled his eyes, ( Fully rolled his eyes! At me! And he looked so cute doing it! ), and frowned softly. “Eren’s not all that bad, you know? He’s very kind once you get to know him, he does the most for everyone all the time.”
Immediately, Jean felt bad. Sometimes he forgets that Armin and Eren have this creepy, weird connection. One that Jean will never be able to wrap his head around. If Jean wants Armin in his life, he’s just going to have to make room for Eren too. For the beautiful blond boy sitting next to him, Jean realized he’d do anything.
“I’m sorry, Armin,” Jean apologized, placing a soft hand on Armin’s shoulder. “I didn't mean that, I’m sorry. Eren and I have never got along, I’m sure you know that by now. But, I’ll try. To be nice to him.”
“Why?” Armin questioned, his gaze snapping from Jean’s hand on his shoulder to his face.
“Okay, well, now I’m confused. Do you want me to like Jaeger or not?”
Armin just laughed and shook his head, “I do! I do, just, I don't understand. You clearly don't like Eren, which is totally okay. I understand he can be a lot sometimes. You're always so set in your ways, I admire that about you. So, why are you suddenly willing to get along with him? I don’t get it.” Armin frowned further, looking genuinely confused. This kid was so oblivious.
“For you, dipshit,” Jean answered, letting his hand fall from Armin’s shoulder. “You care about him, for whatever reason, and I care about you. If Eren is your friend then he’s mine too.”
Armin’s face softened as his eyes connected with Jean’s, if he wasn't reading too much into all of Armin’s movements all of the time, he would have said there was a hint of admiration in his gaze.
“You’d do that for me?” Armin asked, his eyes glancing down at his lap as he blushed a bright pink color.
“Of course,” Jean smiled, ruffling his fingers through Armin’s hair. “Why wouldn't I?”
Armin shrugged in response, but Jean could see the small grin that tugged at his lips as he thought. That alone was good enough. A small and comfortable silence fell over them as it did most days they hung out. Jean usually hates silences, trying desperately to fill the awkward air with some kind of conversation or activity. Hanging out with Armin had shown Jean a different side of friendship he’d never seen before.
Everyone in Jean's life is so rough, for lack of better words. Even the quiet ones like Marco. They all have a loud and boisterous sense of humor, filling every moment they're together with shouting and teasing. But with Armin, it's different.
Armin is so delicate, but he can stand his ground. He’s strong, smart, and beautiful inside and out. He has a witty and dry sense of humor that never fails to give Jean a stomach ache from laughing every time they hang out.
All of Jean’s friends are so explosive, but Armin is so tranquil.
“Are you?” Armin spoke up, cutting into Jean’s thought process.
“Huh?” Jean asked, thinking he missed a good chunk of conversation.
“Dating anyone, I mean.” Armin clarified, now looking back up at Jean with his big blue eyes that could kill.
“I’m not,” Jean answered, though he thought he made that pretty obvious. Then again, Jean thought he had made his stupid crush obvious, and Armin seems to be slow to the punch on that one. “Are you?” He followed up, eyes connecting with the blond's. Butterflies roared in his stomach as he looked at the boy next to him. The insects battled in his organs, trying desperately to escape. Some of them had managed and made their way to Jean’s heart, tickling the muscle anxiously.
Armin shook his head, a small blush collecting at the tip of his ears. It was almost hard to miss, but Jean was glad that he hadn't.
“Nope,” Armin replied, a small grin collecting on his lips.
Armin Arlert is single, Jean repeated in his head. But he won't be for long.
☆༓･*˚⁺‧‧͙⁺˚*･༓☆
A week passed and not much had changed. Except for Jean, it had. From an outsider's perspective, Jean and Armin’s relationship had stayed the same. They did all the same things, talked about all the same things, and spent the same amount of time together. But, Jean was starting to notice Armin flirting. Or rather try to flirt. The previously oblivious boy was now not only picking up Jean's shameless flirting but accepting it and trying to flirt back. It was damn near the cutest fucking thing Jean had ever experienced.
Armin sucks at flirting. He’s comically bad. He doesn't know what to say, or how to accept compliments, or how to even give compliments. He gets nervous and becomes a blushing mess and stumbles over his words. And despite his horrible flirting skills, it works on Jean. It totally fucking works.
Jean finds himself even more infatuated with this boy than he already had been. Armin occupied his every thought, and once the two started texting, Jean’s life changed.
He had Armin at his fingertips at all times and it was the best and worst thing to happen to him. It was the best thing because Armin was quite the texter. He sent pictures of every little thing that reminded him of Jean. He would send cute little facts he’d learned throughout the day, and at the end of the day, every day, Armin would ask Jean how his day was. Even if they’d spent the majority of it together.
But, it was also the worst thing ever because Jean didn't get anything done. If he wasn't with Armin, he was texting Armin. The two of them even started texting in class, even if they were in said class together. Slowly, Jean’s friends began to catch on.
“You sexting your boyfriend?” Connie asked with a smirk on his face one day in Science class.
Jean immediately looked towards Armin grinning wildly down at his phone from across the room, then back to Connie. “Shut the fuck up!” Jean whispered, hitting the back of Connie's head. “We’re not sexting and he’s not my boyfriend, asshole.”
Connie smirked as a blush rose to Jean’s cheeks. “Alright man, whatever you say. Just tell him I say hi.”
Jean scoffed and before he could reply, Marco spoke up from behind him, “While you’re at it tell him I read that book he told me about, it was fucking amazing.”
Jean groaned and scowled at both of his friends. “You two have phones, you text him! I’m not your message boy.” He huffed, looking over his shoulder to catch Armin’s eye. The blond smiled at him and pointed down to his phone.
Jean looked down, then back at a smiling Armin, then back down at his phone.
On the screen read a text from the blond: “I heard all that. :P wanna see a movie tonight? Just you and me this time (:”
Jean smiled so wide his cheeks hurt. With his heart hammering loud in his chest, and the thought of hitting Connie again, Jean texted back. “I hate Connie. Stupid fucking baldy, don't listen to anything he says. I’d love to see a movie tonight. Pick you up at 8?”
“Perfect. (:”
☆༓･*˚⁺‧‧͙⁺˚*･༓☆
Jean Kirstein is going on a date with Armin Arlert. Okay well, it’s not officially a date, but Armin didn't say that it wasn't one either. There had been a lot of smiley faces in the texts he sent, so that was a plus, but then again Armin adds a smiley face with every text he sends. Once Jean got an ‘I’m on the toilet call you in a second. (:’ text which wasn't too romantic but, he’d look past it because Armin is cute and they're totally going on an unofficial date.
The only thing was, Jean had no fucking idea what he wanted to wear to said date. Suddenly, he had no idea how to dress like a normal human being. Let alone one that Armin would possibly want to kiss because Jean totally plans on kissing Armin tonight.
Are jeans too casual? But, slacks are way too fancy. Should he wear a sweater or a coat? Maybe a coat? Just in case Armin gets cold and Jean can offer his jacket, then for the rest of the night he can marvel at Armin being swallowed in Jean’s big coat. Jean’s closet looked way too big all of the sudden, there were too many choices and Jean just wanted to blow this kid away.
Ultimately, he went with the safe option, a nice tan sweater, topped by a coat that Jean thought Armin would look absolutely adorable in given the chance to wear it, and black jeans. He fixed his growing hair back, pushing the bangs to the side just how he liked it, and stopped in the living room to showcase his outfit to his mother before he left.
“You look so handsome!” She exclaimed, pinching his cheeks between her fingers. “My boy is all grown up.” She cooed, smiling brightly up at him.
“Maaaaaaaa,” Jean complained, shying away from her touch. “You're gonna make me nervous. I gotta go, I’m already gonna be late.” He leaned forward, pressing a kiss to her cheek. Quickly, he rushed towards the front of the hose.“Wish me luck!” He called from the doorway, grabbing his keys and wallet.
“Don't forget to be a gentleman, Jeanie!” His mother called out.
He smirked and nodded his head at her, slipping out the door. Of course, he was going to be a gentleman, this was going to be the best date Armin has ever been on. That boy deserves nothing more than the best.
Jean made a split decision as he drove down his street towards Armin’s place that he was going to make a quick little pitstop. He sent Armin a quick text informing him of his dilemma and of course, the boy was kind about it. He’s literally perfect, Jean felt dizzy just thinking about him.
As soon as he knew it, he was in the flower section at his local market, staring into an array of followers. He wanted to get the perfect ones for Armin. Roses were too tacky and too forward, Lilies could do, but Jean wanted this to count. Time was ticking, Armin was waiting and they had a movie to get to.
Thankfully, a worker saw Jean's frustration and decided to help the poor teenaged boy out.
“Hi there,” She greeted, a bright smile on her face. Jean smiled back as he turned to her, his brows still furrowed together. “How can I help you, sir?”
“Um,” Jean started looking around at the flowers around him, his words caught in his throat. “I can't decide which flowers to choose, I’m going on a date with someone I really like and I really want to impress him but I've realized I know jackshit about flowers so now I’m stuck.”
The woman laughed and clasped her hands over her chest, her crow’s feet deepening as she closed her eyes delightedly. “Ahh, young love. Tell me about this person, then, what does he mean to you?”
Anxiety built up in Jean’s chest as looked at the lovely old woman in front of him. What did Armin mean to him? And was he really going to tell this random lady all about his big fat crush on the blond boy from his third-period science class? Though, Armin was more than that.
“Well,” Jean started, nervously shifting his weight from foot to foot. “He’s kind and beautiful. Probably the prettiest person I’d ever seen. He's, um, new to the school and he’s in my science class. Not that you needed that information– Ah! Okay, I’m just nervous. I really like this kid and he's so smart and pretty and he makes me feel all warm inside, and he has the prettiest blond hair and the dorkiest glasses and, Oh god I’m embarrassing myself.” He finished, a deep red blush flushing all over his body as the woman just smiled in front of him.
“No, no, honey. I think it's cute. Young love is a wonderful thing, he sounds like a great fellow. You care about this boy, yes?” She asked. Though she was older she was still shorter than Jean, but he felt like an embarrassed little kid next to her. He nodded yes, too embarrassed to speak again. He was afraid that if he opened his mouth again, he’d never shut up about Armin, he could go on for hours.
The older woman turned around on her heels and led Jean to the part of the shop that held the roses. In front of him, there were an array of different colored roses, spanning from deep red to bright orange. Jean had no idea roses came in so many colors.
“Now, I understand that roses can be scary, but they're quite romantic. Different shades have different meanings behind them, and I think I have the perfect bunch for you, son.” She spoke with a smile, grabbing at the roses below her. Jean didn't question as she explained their meaning, he just listened carefully to the words the nice woman had to say as he explained what each of them meant.
Which is how Jean ended up leaving the market with a handful of pink and lavender roses in his hands, 10 minutes late for his date with the cutest boy in the entire world.
When he anxiously arrived at Armin’s house he felt like if his heart beat any faster it was going to burst out of his chest like in the cartoons he watched as a kid. Anxiously, he made his way up to the front door he’d grown to get to know over the past few weeks and knocked, taking a step back. He straightened his back, cleared his throat, and held the flowers against his chest.
After a few long seconds of waiting, the door opened and Jean wasn't greeted by Armin, but by his grandfather who he lived with. Jean had met Grandpa Arlert more than a few times, he was a very kind man and seemed to love and care for Armin a lot. But, in that moment, the look on the man's face terrified him.
But, Jean would be damned if he let that get in his way.
“Good evening, Mr. Arlert.” Jean smiled, nodding at the man in the doorway. “I’m here to pick up Armin, we’re seeing a movie.”
Armin’s grandfather’s stare didn't falter, “I’m aware, he told me.” He spoke plainly. Jean felt sweat collecting at his forehead as he stood now more nervous than before. He swallowed so hard he was sure the man could hear it.
Then, an angel appeared.
“Grandpa!” Armin complained as he walked from behind his grandfather, “Stop doing that, Jean is a nice boy, okay? You have met him a billion times.” He rolled his eyes, looking over to Jean. “Hi.” He greeted, his blue eyes looking from the flowers to Jean’s face.
“Hi,” Jean replied, frozen in his tracks. Armin looked stunning. For one, he wasn't wearing his glasses, which Jean thought was insanely adorable. He had on a cute pair of light blue jeans, partnered with a white collared shirt with a grey sweater vest over the top of it. His blond hair was pinned back away from his face with the most adorable multicolored clips, showing off the small gold earrings he wore nearly every day. Armin looked like an angel floating above the clouds as he nervously gripped onto the straps of his yellow backpack.
“Are those, um, for me?” Armin asked nervously, snapping Jean out of his love-struck gaze.
Okay, game time.
“Yes,” Jean grinned, taking a step closer to Armin, but not too close since his grandfather was right there staring at them. He carefully extended his arms out to offer the roses to Armin. The boy took them with a smile on his face as he softly stuck his nose near the petals and breathed in. “The lady at the flower shop helped me pick them out. The pink ones are supposed to stand for sweetness and joy and the lavender ones are, uh–”
“I–um– I know what they mean,” Armin quickly cut off, glancing over to his grandpa. “We should get going or we’re gonna miss our movie.”
“Right,” Jean nodded, looking back over to Armin’s grandfather. Nerves bubbled in Jean’s stomach.
“Have him back by 11,” The man spoke sternly, followed by Armin rolling his eyes.
The blond boy teasingly pinched his grandfather's shoulder and groaned, “Cut it out, I’m seventeen I’ll be back whenever I want to be back.” He informed confidently as his grandfather looked over at him. Jean felt nervous about the man's reaction but surprisingly, his face melted into a smile as he looked at his grandson.
“Alright,” He replied, ruffling Armin’s hair. The boy whined in response. “Just keep me updated, please.”
“I will,” He complained, placing a small kiss on his grandfather's cheek. “Bye.” He giggled, ( Oh my god this kid,) as he made his way onto the porch.
“Have a good night, sir.” Jean nodded as Armin approached him.
Armin’s grandfather nodded back and excused himself back into their house, leaving the two boys out on the porch.
“Hi,” Jean greeted as he turned toward Armin. The blond boy grinned wide and looked up at him. Jean could see all the details of his face that were usually hidden by his glasses this close. Scattered across the bridge of his nose and extending onto his cheeks, sat the most adorable faint golden freckles Jean had ever seen. They were so light and not very noticeable that you had to look close to see them, no wonder they were always hidden under his glasses. The presence of his freckles between them felt like their little secret.
“Hi, Jean,” Armin replied, gripping the bouquet of roses in his hands. “Thank you for my flowers. They're very beautiful.”
You're beautiful.
“Of course.” Jean nodded, “We should get going.” He spoke up, figuring they’d miss their movie if they stood on Armin’s porch any longer. He also has a sneaking suspicion Armin’s grandfather was watching them, and Jean had a newfound fear of that man. He wondered what changed.
“Yes! Yes, of course. I apologize,” Armin replied, walking with Jean towards the car.
Jean jogged ahead and pulled the passenger door open for Armin who just rolled his eyes in response. Jean loved when he did that, it was possibly the cutest thing in the world.
“Someones in a rush,” Armin laughed, climbing into the passenger seat. “Thank you.”
Jean nodded and shut the door behind him, jogging to the driver's side. He climbed in with ease and faced the beautiful blond boy in his passenger seat.
“Of course I'm in a hurry,” He smirked, “Previews are the best part.”
☆༓･*˚⁺‧‧͙⁺˚*･༓☆
They ended up deciding on a movie about Zombies. Or more Jean decided and paid. (But that second part was his decision. Armin had rejected and had complained about it but in the end, Jean won). Another thing he learned about the boy beside him was that despite being the most quick-witted, smart person in any given room, he hated making decisions. He was good at decisions, and if it really mattered he was very quick to make the right one, but when it came to small ones like these, he was a mess.
“How are you the smartest person at our school and you are horrible at making decisions?” Jean asked as the two of them walked towards their theater with all their snacks in hand.
“I panicked!” Armin defined, taking a sip from his blue slushy he ordered. “You put me on the spot and now we have to see some dumb Zombie movie.” He teased, a slight smirk on his face.
Jean gasped dramatically and knocked into Armin’s shoulder softly. “It looks cool! I bet you're going to love it and then never be able to shut up about it. Plus, it was your idea to see a movie you could have looked up what ones were playing ahead of time.”
“I didn't think of that,” Armin mumbled as they approached theater Number 4.
“For someone who is so smart, you are made of anxiety, Armin.” Jean teased as he reached forward, despite his hands being full of his and Armin’s snacks (because he's a gentleman), and pulled the door open.
“Whatever,” Armin laughed, walking through the doors and into the theater. “You're lucky you're being nice to me today, asshole.”
The movie was comically bad. About halfway through it Jean almost fell asleep. The plot didn't make much sense, the acting was horrible, the special effects were tragic. It was probably the worst movie Jean had seen in a very long time. That being said, he enjoyed every minute of it.
Luckily, Armin also agreed that the movie playing before them was one of the worst ever made, and the two of them continued to make fun of it the entire time. They got hushed just about a million times by angry movie go-ers who loved the movie, and every time the two of them laughed their asses off.
The best part of the entire experience, by far, was that Armin was holding his hand. Palm to palm, fingers interviewed, thumb stroking each other's hands: the whole nine yards.
At one point during the movie, Jean basically spit out his drink out of his mouth, Armin made him laugh so hard and the two of them almost got yelled at by an angry father enjoying the movie with his family in front of them. To which Jean and Armin had to contain their laughter, and in all of the excitement, their hands were gripped around each other squeezing tight as they laughed.
Jean half expected Armin to let go once the excitement of the joke was over, but to his content, he held on for the rest of the movie. It was kind of inconvenient, seeing as the two of them had to use their opposite hands to reach into the popcorn between them, but it was worth it.
Armin’s hands were small compared to Jean’s and it drove him insane. Could this boy get any cuter? Seriously Jean was clinically down horrendously for him. Jean had dreamt about this moment for weeks now, through the time they've known each other Jean has brushed hands with Armin plenty of times, so he knew how soft they were, but it paled in comparison to actually holding his hands. It was the best experience of his life.
The movie ended in an anticlimactic way, plot-wise. Armin-wise, Jean’s heart was beating at a million miles an hour. Their hands still stayed clasped together, and Armin’s right hand often found its way to Jean’s hand already holding Armin’s left one and started playing with his fingers as he was watching the movie. The ending of the movie meant that they would have to address this hand-holding situation, stop holding hands, or just continue as if nothing had changed.
Thankfully, as the credits rolled and the lights turned on Armin didn't show any signs of letting go. They continued holding hands even as they walked out of the crowded theater, neither of them seeming to want to let go.
“The two main guys totally could have had their gay moment in the end and it wouldn't have changed the plot of the movie,” Armin spoke up, turning to look at Jean as they walked through the doors of the theater into the cold air.
“I agree wholeheartedly,” Jean grinned, “They were totally gay for each other the whole movie. The tension was insane.” He teased, watching as Armin laughed softly. His laugh was probably the best thing ever.
“Totally,” Armin spoke between laughs, his hand tightening his grip around Jean’s as they walked. “Thank you, Jean.” He added, looking up at him. “For tonight. I had a lot of fun.”
“Of course, Armin.” Jean nodded, his eyes catching Armin’s. His stomach bubbled nervously as they eventually approached Jean’s beat-up car in the back corner of the parking lot. “I’m just lucky to know you.” He continued as they came to a stop. Jean turned to face the boy beside him and grabbed his free hand with his, now holding both of his hands between them.
The dim street night was their only light, but even then Armin looked as beautiful as he always did. Jean could look at him all night long.
“Jean?” Armin asked softly, his cheeks suddenly flushing the most adorable pink. Jean nodded in response, his mind racing at a million miles an hour. “The– um– the flowers, the lilac ones. When you were telling me about them and I told you I knew what they meant. What do they mean to you?”
Jean sucked a deep breath into his lungs and bravely took a step closer to Armin. The small boy watched intently, his cold hands still gripping Jeans. Brown eyes met blue ones and in a soft voice, the ladder spoke: “I think you know. You're the smartest person I've ever known. The question is: What do they mean to you, Armin?”
Armin took in a shaky breath and let go of Jean’s hands, softly placing them on his chest. He slightly leaned against Jean’s car behind him and the grey-haired boy followed, absolutely entranced in everything Armin had to offer.
“Well,” Armin started, his hands nervously playing with the fabric of Jean’s shirt. “Lilac roses symbolize enchantment and wonder as well as splendor and mystery. But they can also portray love at first sight or an infatuation with someone.” He informed, using that big brain of his to his advantage. Jean stepped in closer as his hands found Armin’s waist. He let his larger hands lay gently on the boy's waist, holding him in place as Armin let out a shuddering breath at the contact.
“Mhm,” Jean hummed, his eyes glued to Armin’s.
“Oftentimes,” Armin started again, his voice breathy and quieter now. Armin slid his hands up from their place in Jean’s chest to rest behind Jean’s head. His arms were draped over his broad shoulders as he carefully pulled Jean closer. “People will give others they have a secret crush on lilac roses.”
Jean couldn't help but grin. As Armin looked up at him with large eyes Jean was putty in the blond’s hands. He nodded slowly and leaned his forehead against Armin’s, their eyes still connected.
“That’s what they say,” Jean chuckled, his left hand sliding up Armin’s back to pull them closer. Their bodies stayed flushed together as they shared the same air, breathing in and out in perfect harmony. Armin nervously played with the hair on the back of Jean’s head as he opened his mouth slowly to speak.
“So do you, Jean?” Armin asked.
He nodded. “I do.”
“What are you going to do about it?” The blond teased, a small smirk on his lips. Jean couldn't help but smirk back.
“I'm going to kiss you,” Jean replied. Armin nodded softly, causing their noses to nudge together. He took off his hand previously on Armin’s waist and cupped the side of his face. “Is that okay?”
Armin nodded again, “I've never done this before.”
A small chuckle left Jean’s lips as his thumb slowly stroked the side of Armin’s face. “Been kissed?” He asked.
“Any of this,” Armin nodded, his face flushing red. “Don't laugh!” He defended, teasingly pushing Jean away. He reacted quickly and pulled himself back, placing a small kiss on Armin’s cheek.
“I'm not,” Jean grinned as he looked back at Armin. “I just think you are so cute, Armin. Everything about you makes my brain mushy.”
Armin blushed deeper, turning his head towards the side to avoid Jean’s gaze. “That can't be true.” He mumbled.
Jean quickly reacted and trapped Armin’s chin between his thumb and index finger, slowly guiding the boy's face back forward. “It is. I think you're damn near perfect. Now if only you weren't so obsessed with Jaeger I’m pretty sure you would be perfect but, we all have our flaws.”
“You're an asshole,” Armin laughed.
“Yeah but you're laughing so, I consider that a win.” The taller of the two chuckled softly, his hand sliding back to the side of Armin’s face. The blond boy looked up at Jean, his eyes wide and beautiful as they met his own again. That look knocked the wind out of him completely, leaving him gasping for air.
Armin slowly leaned closer to Jean, standing on his tiptoes to reach his height. It was painfully adorable. Jean met him halfway until their foreheads were touching again and their lips were nearly grazing each other as Armin spoke up.
“Please kiss me,” He begged, tightening his grip around Jean’s shoulders.
In an instant, Jean leaned down and carefully pressed his lips to Armin’s own, causing a small sigh to leave the blond's lips as they moved together. It was light and beautiful, and Jean felt like he was floating. Armin’s lips were soft and careful, moving precisely just like he did with everything he does. The kiss was careful and small, but Jean felt like he was walking on clouds.
The aroma of old books in a library and flowers of Armin’s scent rushed into Jean’s nose, making him light-headed. Hesitantly, Jean pulled away, though he really didn't want to. He could stand in the parking lot of the movie theater for hours and kiss Armin.
“You taste like blue raspberry,” Jean spoke softly as the two of them opened their eyes. Armin laughed softly and hid his face in Jean’s shoulder, still gripping onto him as he giggled.
“You're such a nerd,” Armin spoke, hugging him close. Jean reciprocated, holding Armin as close to him as he could, never wanting this to end.
“Yeah, whatever, blondie.” Jean grinned, hiding his face in Armin’s blond hair.
They stayed like that for a while, holding onto each other like nothing else existed. It was the best feeling in the world, being with Armin like this. After a few moments passed, Armin began shaking in Jean’s arms, concerned and a little alarmed he pulled away to look at the boy.
“It’s cold,” Armin shivered, his lips blue (not just from his drink earlier) and nose red. Jean reacted instantly and released Armin from his grip to strip off his coat and drape it over the boy’s shoulders. Armin smiled brightly and curled himself into the oversized fabric.
Jean was right, Armin looked absolutely adorable engulfed in his large coat. The blond stuck his nose in the fabric and giggled.
“It smells like you,” He smiled, wrapping his arms around Jean’s torso. “Come back to my place?”
Jean wrapped his arms tightly around the boy below him and nodded. “As long as your grandfather doesn't completely murder me. I swear I thought the guy liked me.”
The blond laughed softly and looked up at Jean from his place nuzzled in his sweater. “I told him we were going on a date and he said he was gonna try to scare you.” Armin giggled, smirking up at him. “That’s my fault.”
“You're evil, Arlert.” Jean gapped, looking down at Armin’s squashed face against his chest. “But you're also cute so it makes up for it.”
“I’m also cold,” He replied, “Can we please go home? We can kiss and watch TV.”
“Deal,” Jean replied immediately, suddenly very excited for the events ahead of them. As he watched the beautiful boy below him smirk softly and then lean up to place a kiss on Jean’s cheek, he felt so lucky.
☆༓･*˚⁺‧‧͙⁺˚*･༓☆
The next day at school, after their night of cuddling, kissing, and watching TV, Armin and Jean walked into science class hand in hand.
Hange congratulated them on their new relationship status followed by Armin, who looks up to their teacher, blushing from head to toe. Eren groaned as they greeted him for the day, seeming slightly unhappy about this new news, though as he looked at Armin and held up and thumbs up when he thought Jean wasn't looking he assumed otherwise Eren knew all along.
“Fucking finally, dude,” Connie groaned as Jean walked up to their group of tables after he kissed Armin goodbye for the period. “Does you and blondie finally getting together mean you're gonna stop bitching about the kid?”
“Nope,” Jean smirked as he sat himself next to his friend. “This just means I’m gonna talk about him more.”
“Please don't,” Marco groaned from behind them.
Jean turned around and smirked wider, “M’gonna talk about how soft his lips are and how he smells like roses and how he has the cutest freckle on his left collarbone and how he–”
“Oh my god, I'm gonna throw up.” Connie moaned, cupping his hands over his ears and dramatically laying his head on the table.
Marco followed suit not long after and Jean couldn't help but laugh at the expense of his friends. He’d never feel guilty about talking about Armin, seeing that he’s the best thing to happen since sliced bread, and he knew his friends secretly love it; they're just a bunch of assholes.
As class started, Jean felt a buzzing in his pocket. He snuck it out so Hange couldn't see and looked down on the screen, on it was a message from his cute new boyfriend. It read:
“ I heard all that. :P Are my lips really that soft? Yours are softer I bet. Should we test out this theory later at my place? In the name of science of course. (:”
A smile so wide he’s sure everyone in the room could see it no matter where they sat stretched across Jean’s face as he typed his reply.
“Well, in the name of science, of course.”