Archive of Our Own

Patience was a virtue as she had been told for many years of her childhood. Rather, good things came to those who waited. Perhaps there was some merit to it after all. The sea of yellow, the color of the sun that gave the Earth its ability to flourish and grow. Yellow, the spiritual manifestation of happiness that signified renewal, enlightenment, clarity, and good fortune. Omeretta looked best in yellow as her loved ones told her. Who knew the land beneath her feet and the trails that expanded far and wide from where she stood would be full of the color that brightened her fawn-colored skin.

Who knew that the boy with eyes as bright, deep, strong and calm as the tides of the ocean would bring out the color yellow from her soul with a sunflower tucked behind her ear.

𝑇𝑤𝑜 𝑑𝑎𝑦𝑠 𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑙𝑖𝑒𝑟.....

Omeretta's morning constitutional hadn't been as fulfilling as she had hoped it would be. An overwhelming number of thoughts clouded her brain right now, that a normal walk around town would remedy, but not this time. Her feet carried her back into the woman's barracks at headquarters in Trost, just as everyone else was getting ready to head to breakfast. The luxury she missed from denying herself beauty rest because of the shitstorm in her brain; the hysteria of a new relationship with the greatest guy in the world and coming to terms with the fact that he's the Colossal Titan, being a part of the coveted Black Ops Squad as a master interrogator and trying to adapt to making friends with her comrades in and out of her squad. The tumultuous struggle she had with trying to feel her emotions was overwhelming.

She approached her room, gently shutting the door to recollect and freshen herself up. Her uniform was hanging up on a hook outside the bathroom door, her svelte finger shedding her Yoruban garments off her body. Breasts clad in a mauve colored bra, without any underwear on. She was in a bit of a rush to take her walk so early, craving the fresh dewy air of the springtime and letting the coolness of the air form dew drops on the epidermis of her baby soft, light fawn skin. Omeretta entered her bathroom, starting the shower so that the water would at the very least warm. While she waited, her eyes glanced at the bracelet made of pearlescent pieces of seashells, reminding her of her sweet beloved boyfriend.

Armin.

Reminiscing about their very first date that took place on the first day they met, Omeretta smiled. His story of how he had an endearing and pleasant dream to see the ocean, something that many others told him was a mere fantasy and would never become a reality. The many years that he spent ridiculed by strangers and even his loved ones, Armin was able to discover the one thing that kept his hope alive, describing all of it to Omeretta without a single missed detail. The peaceful walk with her gentle embrace against his arm and fit frame, enjoying the larger marketplace to look at what was being sold by the merchants. When her eyes fell upon the pink, purple, and baby blue hues that reflected along the off-white seashells crafted into a bracelet. It would be a pity if she didn't get them to remember their first everything as a couple.

My sweet, precious bokkie. Every day you touch my heart in ways I didn't think were possible.

Before she could blink, her body was cleansed of all the minor accumulation of perspiration from walking outside and getting the little sleep she could. Her hands roamed her body as she massaged her body oil and lotion into her skin. She couldn't believe that it had been a month since she first joined the Black Ops Squad and subsequently was a taken woman. Of course, it wasn't in her plans to get caught up in a whirlwind romance and fall in love, but the Goddess had other plans for her. Immersed in Yoruban spirituality from a little girl taught Omeretta that the Goddess' plans were ones that she created for her children individually, that manifesting was one of the ways that you could attract things into your life. Whatever Hadiza's will, it will be done only for the benefit of her people, never anything to punish them.

Her fingers shut the door to her room, watching her fellow comrades walk the halls conversing with one another. Omeretta thought she'd run into Sasha, or even Mikasa, but she didn't see either one of them so far, or her comrades. Maybe they had gotten a head start down to the mess hall for breakfast? She had no clue, and it was honestly becoming more disheartening as time went on. She was usually a person with a lot of personality; flirty, charming, outgoing, and knew how to have fun. Except in the military, she was struggling to find others who were a bit more extroverted like herself. The few people that she was trying to become friends with didn't seem to always be around and she didn't want to always rely on Armin to take the place of potential platonic friends.

We most definitely don't do anything platonic when we're alone, and I enjoy it very much. ~

Oma couldn't help but giggle at her frisky inner monologue. Armin was her first sexual partner that wasn't already experienced, but it seemed to bother him much more than herself. Euphoria, ecstasy, full of deep affection, the grazing ghost touches just above the surface of her skin, his soft, baby-like skin.......

"There you are! I've been looking all over for you...... well.... I wasn't looking too hard or anything..... ummm.... I just......" Armin's stammering snapped Omeretta out of her less than stellar thoughts. Still with a nervous disposition, but her honey remained sweeter than a fresh Yoruban mango on a beautiful sun filled day.

The hand graced with well crafted, saturated ink caressed his cheek before smooching his cheek. It wasn't necessary that he get this worked up and the day hasn't even started, Omeretta not minding the public display of affection if it meant that Armin would be at ease. "Good morning, my love. I'm so glad to see you this morning, but is there a reason you wanted to find me so quickly?"

She couldn't help but admit she enjoyed teasing and playing coy with Armin. Not maliciously, but because Omeretta knew that to some capacity it got him flustered and she knows he likes being teased. Should she keep it in the bedroom? Yes and she would, but sometimes it was funny to do so at random. Although, if she had to guess it was because both of their squads combined were busy over the last week; however, last night neither of them were able to spend the night with one another. Omeretta could admit that she would have benefited from some cuddles and comfort from Armin, especially because she was still having a difficult time adjusting and 'bonding' with their comrades. Was it really a turn off that she was outgoing?

Her flirtatious nature attracted the attention of the men in the regiment, to her dismay. The Yoruban beauty knew they were after what was between her legs and her chest. Her comrades warned her about how Eldian men to an extent oversexualized Yoruban women, due to what little they knew about people that looked different from them. Spirit blessed her to have Armin by her side because he would never treat her in such a deplorable way.

Armin noticeably relaxed, his shoulders moving a bit further from his shoulders, a flush across his cheeks from accepting her kiss. Omeretta felt his hands take a hold of hers, ignoring the rest of the moving soldiers around them. "I was looking for you because I missed you. Things have been moving at the speed of light lately, especially with all the developments surrounding our enemies. I really wanted to see you, Oma."

If her heart was able to melt, she would be a puddle. The most wholesome and kind things always came out of Armin's mouth, but especially when he would call her by her shortened name. Admittedly, her name was a bit of a mouthful, so ever since their first dinner together he'd been calling her Oma. Her pouty lips curled into a smile, a feeling of warmth coursing slowly through her chest. Someone wanting to see her..... having the desire to want to spend time with her?

"Awww, Armeen! I've missed you too, bokkie, but I understand. You being a veteran soldier and me being in the Black Ops...... for what that's worth." Omeretta couldn't help but sink back into her previous sadness and hopelessness. Her squad was part of her current problems with fitting in, no matter what she seemed to do. It left her lonely on top of not having any identity within her squad.

Armin's expression morphed into one of concern. His beloved girlfriend being distraught didn't sound like her at all. "What's wrong? Did you want to talk about it over breakfast? I don't know if it'll help you feel better, but I want to help if I can."

Omeretta could hear the audible evidence of her hunger from her toned stomach. Geez, she really should've had something to eat last night before bed, or at least snuck into the canteen to get something to snack on while everyone was in a deep slumber. "That sounds lovely. Anytime I get to spend with you is always the greatest part of my day."

Locking their fingers together, the young and precious couple took their walk to the mess hall, Omeretta keeping her body close to Armin. Not that she had any threats around that could compete with her, but Omeretta enjoyed showing that she and Armin were a couple. The staring, she sadly had to come to terms with; she would never understand why people stared at Armin. He appeared to be a normal, everyday soldier who was insanely intelligent and a gentle soul. A bit anxious and easily startled, but Armin truly was a gentleman. Her ears already picked up on the whispers from their fellow male comrades, the same wondering of how 'Arlert was able to get a babe like her?', 'I thought he was a virgin?', and 'That new girl is hot, and she picked him?' or even questioning how he could be the Colossal Titan.

Even after we've been together a month and they refuse to stop being so nosy? Let people live, we're in the military. There's only so many times we get to genuinely love another in this life, in these walls, and now in these unprecedented times, Oma continues her walk to the mess hall with Armin, ignoring the evident jealousy and envy of the others they fight alongside.

As they arrived in the mess hall, Armin guided her to an open table, holding her hand until she was settled in her seat. A surprised kiss to her forehead from his lips caused Omeretta to blush as well, especially when Armin didn't favor public affection. She admired and was turned on when he exhibited bravery and challenged his discomfort. "Wait, here, I'll go get us something to eat, okay?"

"Okay." Omeretta couldn't help but still blush, even while maintaining her gaze into his gorgeous eyes. Adjusting to their relatively new puppy love still had her gushing like a little girl with her first crush, and not that she's having these interactions with her actual boyfriend.

It wouldn't be long before he returned with their food, and he'd likely want to know what has her upset. Omeretta was hesitant because of how anxiety ridden Armin regularly was and she didn't want to make things more difficult for him. Would he really want to hear about how she's struggling to fit in anywhere? With his friends? With her own squad? Omeretta's guilt slowly started festering, not wanting to be a burden on Armin.

If I don't tell him, he'll worry. Plus, I don't believe in being dishonest with him. He's never been dishonest with me and I won't treat the man I love that way. Oma noticed Mikasa and Sasha approaching her, temporarily pushing her doubts away.

"Oma! A beautiful day, isn't it?" Sasha seemed a bit chipper, or at least more than Mikasa.

"Good morning, Sasha! Mika! How are you?" Oma asked, keeping her hands folded in her lap. She was still getting to know them, so it was very much a matter of still gauging them. Their body language, mannerisms, tone of voice. Almost like lackluster interrogation, which was drastically different from her day and night job in the Black Ops.

"As great as I can be. I'm sad we can't go to that restaurant that opened up in town. I heard Niccolo was working there." Sasha couldn't help but whine, imagining all the decadent and gourmet food that she could be enjoying in mass.

"Sasha, we've been over this before. He's a prisoner of war, you should focus on your duties for now." Mikasa was holding back in her tone towards Sasha. The Yoruban beauty knew that Mikasa had been on edge ever since both of their squads traveled to Marley and Eren went MIA. Hearing Sasha go on about Niccolo may be manifesting emotions within Mikasa that she hadn't come to terms with.

"It's good to see you guys, but I did promise to spend breakfast with Armin this morning. I think you both can understand that I need to be a woman of my word." Omeretta politely shut down any further talk. As much as she would normally invite them to sit and bond with the other young women, Armin was coming back with their breakfast and she just wanted quality time with him.

Sasha didn't seem to be phased by Oma's words, which gave her a bit of relief. The last thing she desired was to push them away in any capacity. "Maybe we can all catch up later on after all these meetings? We can all go out for a drink to relax if you're down with that."

Omeretta relented, giving the two girls a warm smile. Maybe if she continued to be her usual bubbly self, someone would warm up to her eventually. "One drink and then I'm coming back to the barracks. I don't really like being out at night."

"Sweet! We'll meet you outside the girls' dorm, okay!? Let's go, Mikasa! We don't need to interrupt the love birds enjoying their breakfast together." Sasha's lips curled into a mischievous smirk, waggling her eyebrows before gently pulling the other Ackerman in the opposite direction.

"I'm — he is my boyfriend; I don't think it's much of a secret in the regiment anymore." Oma managed to keep her composure, despite feeling warmth on her cheeks.

She didn't care at this point what anyone thought of her relationship with Armin. She fell in love with a wonderful, tenderhearted, upstanding guy that adored her just as much in return. Armin always made her feel loved, special, and like she was the most magnificent creature in the world. Like she was an ethereal being that graced the Earth.

It's still an insane part of my reality. I get to call him mine.

"I'm back, I hope the same meal we had yesterday isn't too unappetizing." Her ochre eyes landed on her lover, moving just a bit closer to him once he sat down.

"I've made do before now, but we are going to Yoruba next week. You'll have all the home cooked meals with seasonings to your heart's content, bebe." Omeretta's fingers tore off a piece of bread, placing it in his mouth. If only they had some olive oil.

Armin couldn't help but sheepishly smile. He knew that they've been planning this trip back to Oma's village since they met, but it felt so surreal that they only had seven days before they spent two weeks away from HQ. "I'm excited to see what it's like in your village, although I am nervous to meet your family. I hope I can make a great impression on them."

"Armin, bebe, I promise everything will be alright. Maman and papa will adore you. They'll get to see what exactly I love about you and who makes me so unbelievably happy." Oma smiled, holding his hands underneath the table. She needed to be mindful of the time, so they had adequate time to eat and not be too far behind with their day. Although, she had plenty of other ideas to spend their day than to be bothered with their daily assignments.

"Well, while we're on the subject, you sounded a bit defeated when I found you earlier. I don't want to press the subject if you aren't ready to talk about it, but I want to help you feel better if I can. I..... I like seeing you smile, you're more radiant when I see you smile." Armin kept one of their hands held, while using the other to start feeding himself soup.

Oma gave him a forced smile, feeling a bit more at ease as her thumb rubbed the top of her hand. "I guess I'm just having a hard time adjusting still. I've only been with my squad a month, but it doesn't seem like I fit in with them. And I've started to get to know some of your friends with squad Levi, but even then, I feel like I'm too much for them and I stick out like a sore thumb. I want to find a happy medium, but I don't understand exactly how I should go about it."

Admitting how lonely and out of place she felt didn't feel as liberating as Omeretta thought it would be. Normally when she and Armin needed to vent to each other, she felt much better talking things out and getting his honest feedback. Right now wasn't at all the case; on the contrary, she felt compelled to cry. She didn't want to fight alongside people that didn't value her or knew that she was an elite soldier, but a capable soldier that did everything she could for humanity. At first, she was content with just knowing that if she died, that she had her beloved, her lover, the person she loved with every part of her, she had Armin's heart.

The beautiful interrogator could feel the pads of Armin's fingers brush against her chin, prompting her to look up into his eyes. The rays glared through the windows of the mess hall, the natural light making his eyes all the more a saturated, cerulean tone to them. It was akin to the ocean being right in front of her, the twinkle in his eyes keeping her attention. The effect that he had on her still shocked her, but she was always putty in the palm of his hands.

"It sounds like you might need a break. There isn't anything on the docket in the next couple days, why don't we spend some time together? The weather has been nice lately, so maybe we can go horseback riding...... if you'll enjoy it." Armin was still adjusting himself to being in a relationship. If you asked him even a year ago if he would be entertaining dating anyone, he'd probably laugh at you unironically.

With inheriting one of the nine titans from Bertholdt a few years back, it caused the commanding officer to develop some level of acceptance with his own mortality. His term was over in nine years, which meant he and Oma were only able to love each other for a limited time. Revealing that to her not that long ago, submerged in bath water and suds, even then she never rejected him, didn't turn him away. Instead, she cried for him, she grieved for him, she embraced him, but in that intimate moment, she committed herself to him without a doubt or question. All he could do was weep and grip her closer to him, fearful that he would lose the irreplaceable beacon of love and hope that whatever God placed in his life.

I'll spend each of those nine years showing her how much I love her........ and that I'll always love her.

Spending another full day with Armin sounded like something out of a fairytale. Omeretta made incredible memories with her lover that their excursion with horseback riding would be another unforgettable moment in time; a precious heirloom that would be tethered deeply in her heart forever. "I would love to go horseback riding! Maybe I can prepare some food to take with us, even though....... I don't know where we're going horseback riding. Do you know of any trails nearby?"

Truthfully, Omeretta could only remember the trails that were close to old Scout HQ, or there were trails some ways away from her village, but Armin may or may not be aware of those. To Armin's credit, their first day meeting each other, which led to their many firsts she would cherish for the rest of her life. There was no doubt that there were secrets he had up his sleeves, being as intelligent and crafty as he was capable of being. Whatever Armin was able to plan, she had no qualms about it, as long as it was just the two of them.

The blonde had a destination in mind, one that he discovered during all their Scout duties and travels back and forth from the port to headquarters. This was his first relationship with a woman, but Armin put this best foot forward to learn as many things about her as possible. He distinctly remembered how much she enjoyed sunflowers; the bright, deeply saturated shades of yellow on the petals reminded Armin much of Omeretta. The color yellow looked amazing on her skin tone, yet the flower itself was an accurate representation of his girlfriend and who she was as a human. The brightness and vitality in her soul touched those who she was closest to, him being one of those people.

Armin couldn't help but chuckle at Omeretta's curiosity and excitement. He truly enjoyed doing kind gestures and creating special experiences for his caring, amorous girlfriend. The Titan shifter's memory recalled her telling him that in her previous relationships; no one ever bothered to go out of their way to do nice things, or be thoughtful with the dates, or get to truly know the real Oma. Seeing her eyes light up in the sunlight, the copper flecks are distinct and a unique characteristic of her beauty. Her smile, laugh, pure and genuine spirit, everything about her drew her to him the moment he laid eyes on her.

"I promise, where we're going, we need to go by horseback anyway...... but there are nice trails on the way so that we can enjoy nature and the weather. I don't think there's supposed to be rain, so we should be fine. Either way, I promise we'll spend time together tomorrow." Armin laced his fingers between hers again, keeping his larger hand in her lap.

The Tangale goddess was enjoying the physical contact with her sweet Armeen. She was still growing acclimated to having a man who paid attention to what she likes, what she can't stand, who will mentally stimulate her, and love her in the ways that helped her feel emotionally safe. For the first few weeks of their relationship, Oma's level of guilt was at an all-time high, waiting for the shoe to drop, but Armin never did anything that would hurt her. If anything, she was in the best hands possible, an entire paradox to the self-deprecating narrative that he was a monster.

As their relationship progressed, Oma was sure to exude the same love, respect, and safety that would allow Armin to feel his best as well. For only being nineteen years old, Armin's suffered through a great deal of things since he was young and was still managing on his own; however, Omeretta understood he shouldn't have had to endure all this suffering and pain in a perfect world. He deserved all the love to his heart's content, and she would give him all of the love she was able to.

Her ears picked up on the bell ringing from outside the barracks, an indicator that the new hour was starting and that they both had to be on their way. Omeretta felt deflated, not in the mood to be bothered with military affairs. "Goodness, all that time has passed already? I hate this...... I don't like being away from you. I know that sounds..... selfish, maybe immature, but I don't know if I can wait all day without seeing you a second day in a row."

"I can sneak into the girls' side of the barracks tonight...... wait! I didn't mean it like that......I..... ummm..... If it's okay with you I can...... I don't want –" Armin could feel himself getting flustered again. Walls knew he didn't want to give Oma the impression that he wanted to be a pervert, he just wanted to cuddle and, at most kiss her. Even though they've had sex a few times before now, Armin didn't want to do anything if she wasn't comfortable or in the mood.

Oma's lips met Armin's for a gentle kiss, attempting to calm him down so he didn't cause himself to panic too hard. Sometimes he could work himself up so badly, it was concerning for her. "Armin, bebe, calm down...... I would love for you to come later on. You know I adore cuddling with you until we fall asleep. You're more than welcome to come and cuddle whenever you'd like."

Armin's cheeks were still flushed red, but only because of his embarrassment. He was still navigating the relationship and stumbling along the way. Armin never thought he'd be in a relationship and resigned himself to being alone in terms of romance. No girl in the barracks saw him as anything other than the awkward kid who stuck beside Eren and Mikasa, as if he didn't have his own identity. They acknowledged him based on his intelligence and contribution to the Scouts, but not much more. There was Annie, but he was sure that she didn't see him that way..... and he would never know. Then by the off chance that he saw the most beautiful young woman with a bunch of boxes, struggling to move into the barracks, Armin hadn't the faintest clue that he would be able to call her his significant other. He often wondered the same things that his fellow men did: why did Oma give someone like Armin a chance? What was it about him, a monster that Oma could fall in love with?

........I DON'T CARE! YOU'RE THE BEST THING THAT'S EVER HAPPENED TO ME! I'M NOT GONNA..... ABANDON YOU! I DON'T CARE..... I'M NOT LEAVING!

His eyes softened at the brief memory from their first night together. He despised seeing her cry knowing that he was the cause. Seeing Oma in so much distress, the grip her hands had on him, keeping her close to her body as she wailed and screamed into the void. Her unwavering devotion towards him despite him telling her the truth about being the Colossal Titan allowed Armin to realize just how much Oma fell in love with him and how much his love for her invaded every corner of his soul.

I love her so much. I just hope that I can continue to make her happy.

"Armin? What's wrong?" Oma's voice snapped him out of his thoughts. She was a bit concerned whenever he would stare off into space for too long. It usually meant that something was really bothering him deep down.

"Oh.... uhh... it's nothing. No need to fret, I promise. I'll see you later tonight, okay?" Armin gave her a warm smile before kissing her cheek.

Oma had no time to inquire further before Armin was off to his duties for the day. What could have been on his mind? All she could hope is that there wasn't anything serious going on with him. A sigh escaped her lips, as she regrettably went on with her own packed day as well.

'*•.¸♡ ♡¸.•*'

The last forty-eight hours passed by quicker than Omeretta thought it would. Perhaps it was because there was an unanticipated emergency with Captain Neveah that wrapped up their duties early. No one knew the nature of what was going on, but the other girls were speculating that it had to do with her personal life. * The last couple nights she and Armin spent in each other's arms, enjoying the cool, spring breeze coming through her window while they were engrossed in the throes of passion. Oma hadn't recalled being intimate with Armin in a little bit and her cycles were sporadic being a woman in the military. Additionally, he looked really good in his blue button up shirt and slacks when he snuck into her room last night. The temptation and how turned on she was led to a few rounds of lovemaking.

Oma's eyes cracked open, her eyes looking at the bright blue sky outside her window. The air was chilly, wanting to close the window but also not wanting to leave the warmth of their blankets. Armin was still asleep, his soft breathing always melting Oma into a puddle. Gosh, he was adorable that she had to resist pinching his cheek. She did indulge in brushing his cheek, his baby soft skin underneath the tips of her fingers. Seeing him so peaceful in his sleep gave her a sense of comfort.

I wonder if he watches me sleep like I'm doing right now.

The tip of his nose started twitching, his crystal blue eyes opening to see the woman who held his heart. Armin couldn't help but smile at Omeretta, the most beautiful and pleasant site to wake up to on any morning. His heart fluttered just a bit, knowing that today was finally the day they could spend it with each other. The commanding officer thought of this as a prelude to what would be a well-deserved two weeks in Yoruba. He was nervous, but in a good way. Meeting Oma's parents, while having the opportunity to absorb the culture of Yoruban people. He was slowly becoming a permanent fixture in Oma's life just as much as he was hers, but he wanted to make the best impression that he could.

"...... good morning. You...... uhhhh..... haven't been awake for too long, have you?" His morning voice still sounded gentle, even when it was scratchy from sleep.

"No, bokkie. I wanted to close the window because it's chilly, but I don't need to when I have someone as cuddly and cute as you keeping me warm." Oma gave him their traditional morning kiss when they spent the evening with each other. She could never resist being affectionate with Armin and she would never grow tired of doing so.

"Maybe we should close the window, I don't want you to catch a cold before we get to enjoy the day together." Armin kissed her forehead in return, his hand rubbing the small contour of her hip to her thigh.

Oma tapped her index finger to his nose before getting up from her warm bed. Quickly grabbing her robe made of warmer material, she crossed her bedroom to shut and lock the window. Instantly she felt warmth as she shut her curtains as well. Armin and herself planned to get a head start before noon, since Oma still needed to prepare their lunch. Other than making something for them to eat and some water, Armin had kept the details of their outing today tight lipped. No matter how much she pouted, flirted, and taunted him with sex, the blonde gentleman refused to spill the secret. Seeing as how Armin always put thought and creativity into them spending time with each other, Oma knew she would enjoy it no matter what.

She turned around, watching Armin shuffle to button his shirt. Too bad, his body always looked strong and attractive to her, although Oma appreciated having a significant other that was intelligent and could mentally stimulate her brain regularly. Any time she was able, the Yoruban-Tangle goddess always complimented her beloved on his physical appearance. He would blush profusely sometimes, but she could tell that he appreciated the words of affirmation.

While Armin migrated into the restroom, Oma opened her closet in the corner by her bedside stand. The weather might be a bit chilly right now, but she could tell that they would be fortunate to enjoy a beautiful, sunny day. She had a multitude of nice, homemade outfits that would be perfect for the occasion. Growing up in the village, her parents used to always dress her in colors that complimented her skin tone and brighten things up. Yellow was always her best color, her hands guiding her to a lovely two piece, off shoulder top with a matching, floor length skirt. It was perfect for their outing today, showing the right amount of skin for her sweet Armeen. She didn't worry much about Armin, since he had no issues dressing himself and he always looked comfortable and handsome in whatever he wore.

I don't care if I'm biased, it's comforting and pleasant to be so in love with another person.

"Oma.... ummmmm...... would you happen to have a towel somewhere? I want to shower before we go." Armin's head peeked out the bathroom door, his eyes looking at hers with wonder.

"Showering without me? That's a shame.....," In classic Oma nature, she teased him again.

"You could always join me. I mean....... you don't have to join me if you don't want to...... I understand if you want to have time by yourself.....and I don't –" Armin could feel the warmth traveling through his body, hoping to the Walls that it didn't travel where it would be obvious. Oma sure knew how to lay on the teasing when she wanted to..... and part of him liked it more than he thought he should. 

Oma crossed over to him and kissed his cheek, her arms wrapping around his neck. She could feel his hands settle on her waist, her lips hovering just above his ear. "I would love to join you for a shower, but I'm afraid we'd never leave if we indulged in each other. If you'd like, we don't have to come back to the barracks after our day together. We can always get a room at an inn and head back in the morning."

Armin stiffened at the contact with his ear, resisting the urge to whine at her breath tickling sinfully against his earlobe. He gulped just before responding to her suggestion. Although he could figure out what was in store for them, he recalled how Omeretta didn't like being out once it was dark. For her safety and comfort he would reserve a room for them at the inn if they lost track of time. Her proposition also made him feel an electric sensation course through his body, his desire to have her growing at the thought of it.

He slowly exhaled, trying to control his blood from rushing to obvious places..... and his blood pressure so he wouldn't collapse. "I would love that...... but only if you're okay with that. I don't like seeing you upset or uncomfortable." He found his hands rubbing her hips, anticipating her answer.

"It'll be fine, bebe. It gives us an excuse to be away from the barracks for a little while. You already packed ahead of time for us going to the village, and I don't have much more packing to do when we come back. Everything will be wonderful, you'll see." Oma kissed his lips once more before handing him a large towel. Was it the large towels that she may have slipped in their belongings after their first night together? Yes, yes it was. Good linens are hard to come by.

Armin finally disappeared into the bathroom to clean up, while Oma set aside her outfit for the day. She didn't know what Armin planned to wear, but she was always sure to keep extra clothes in her dresser drawers for when he planned to stay the night with her. Hopefully he would wear something with blue to bring out his eyes since it was going to be so lovely outside today. No matter what color, he looked so handsome to her.

The beloved couple eventually dressed and had breakfast with each other, their friends mildly heckling them about being in love and variations of the fact. Mikasa, although usually quiet, told them to be safe and careful on their day trip together. Armin had told Mikasa his plans for his day trip with Oma because she was the only one who could keep anything a secret. Connie and Sasha would've nonchalantly mentioned the inner workings of the whole trip and Armin would be at a loss for words.

Alas, Oma and Armin were in the stables preparing their horses. Oma was finishing her daily regimen with her horse, Willow, before securing the picnic basket on the other side of her saddle. Her mind and heart were racing as if they were going on a mission, but Oma's curiosity was getting the better of her. Where exactly were they going for the day? She figured that she would need to pack snacks since Armin confirmed that they weren't going to the interior or going to any place that served food already. So no restaurants. Going to an inn wouldn't be until this evening, so that was the only for sure part of his plan that she was in on.

Is it too late to give him a blowjob to find out?

Out the corner of her eyes, she spotted Armin joining her beside Willow, the sleeves on his white button up exposing his forearms; his shirt neatly tucked into his slacks. "Are you ready to go, Oma? I think we should be all ready for the ride."

Her hand gently brushed against his, the warmth from her smile radiating from her bright spirit. "Yeah, I'm ready. I'm excited to see where it is you're really taking me."

"Trust me, I have a good feeling you'll enjoy it just as much as I will be showing you where we'll be." There was a different, but softer glow to Armin's eyes as they stood in the stables. His spirit felt at peace from what Oma could observe. She was no High Priestess of Yoruba like her Captain, but she was happy that Armin was in brighter spirits as opposed to him being so melancholy.

Before Oma could say anything about how he was feeling, she found herself being assisted onto her horse, still getting used to a guy being chivalrous with her. There was comfort in having a boyfriend like Armin, someone with so many resounding qualities, including how he treated her like a princess. It was no wonder she always felt compelled to give him smooches, but she would refrain until they were alone. Armin mounted his own horse, taking the reins into his own hands. Oma was sure to keep close to him at all times, smiling as their adventure finally began.

Their first thirty minutes of their trip Armin knew wouldn't be as exciting, seeing as the trails that he was taking her down would be at least another thirty minutes at the rate they were riding. Thankfully Oma always exercised patience with him and didn't mind them riding together and talking. It allowed the two of them to spend quality time with no interruptions. Most of their conversation was about Yoruba, Oma explaining some of the many customs and intricacies of the culture. He took it as an opportunity to be as educated as possible, so he could make a good impression and not disrespect anyone in the village.

Oma always reassured him things would be fine and that her family would love him. It  wasn't that he didn't believe his lovely girlfriend, most of his fear was rooted in his anxiety. If he made any mistakes, he could potentially lose Oma and the only woman of his affections. She was his and held his heart, the trepidation of not having his person...... Armin was certain that he wouldn't recover from that. Everything they've already gone through and experienced together, Oma's love made him feel hope, courage, and reassurance he didn't get from anyone else.

Before he knew it, they were finally approaching the trails that he planned for them to ride through, noticeable by the arrangement of plants and flowers that he knew would be up ahead. That meant that their destination would only take another hour and a half to get to. Right when the sun was in the perfect position in the middle of the day, which would showcase his surprise for Oma that would bring her the most happiness. Armin couldn't resist his lips curling into a smile, a feeling he hadn't experienced since he first met Oma.

Oma caught Armin once again staring off into space. Did she do something wrong? "Armin are you —- "

"Oma, look ahead! Sorry I don't mean to interrupt you........ ummmmm, this is part of my surprise for you today. If you'd like I can tell you a little bit about the trails.....," Armin blushed a little, feeling a bit embarrassed by his level of excitement.

"Oh wow! It's so beautiful! I've never seen so many flowers out in Wall Rose before! Where did you find this trail?" Oma was in complete awe of the colors her eyes could see along the trails. These bushes were full of different shades of blooming and fully bloomed flowers, the trail path was sturdier than the path they took to get here. Her favorite ones were the pink peonies that were growing in several bushes, but even some of the other varieties of flowers were absolutely stunning.

"It was while a small group of us were traveling back and forth to HQ. She won't admit it, but it was one of those awkward moments between Mikasa and Eren. We were traveling through these trails, and they were almost caught blushing by Connie....and you know him enough to know how that would go." Armin explained, letting out a bit of a chuckle. It was very obvious to everyone but Mikasa how Eren felt about her, but Armin couldn't tell if it was denial or something else with Mikasa. Plus, Mikasa knew better, her future with Eren wasn't going to come to fruition. Either he would be killed, or his term would expire.

"Leave it to Constance to make things more awkward than they actually are. Despite him not being so subtle, I'm glad you all were able to experience this together as friends. Just like we're getting to experience this as a couple. It'll bring happy memories for us both....... the things we shared together weren't always bad, that there were pockets of peace in between the sorrows." Oma couldn't help but smile more to herself, remembering how much she valued making memories to carry with her forever.

Armin was just a bit quiet, not wanting to default to the obvious talk of his own term. He didn't want to set Omeretta into a frenzy of thinking how to break the Titan curse or blame herself because she hasn't found a solution yet. Omeretta had promised him that she would stay by his side no matter what, that she loved him so very much. Nevertheless, the agony in his heart of leaving her too soon brought Armin a pain he didn't want to fathom. Seeing her cry, sob, or upset in any capacity killed Armin, especially if he was potentially the cause.

"Armeen ~ this is so beautiful. I can't stop looking at these flowers. Maybe we can make this something we do every year? I know the fountain that we first met is our spot, but maybe..... this could be somewhere we spend time together other than the village. Something that's special for you too." Oma pointed out, her eyes glancing over the abundant bushes and shrubs through the trails. It looked as though they were going to be covered in trees ahead.

"Oh, of course...... if that's what you want, Oma! I know making memories is important to you.... and I want to be with you for all of them." Armin had to force a smile, hoping she wouldn't catch on to the double meaning behind what he just said.

"Well, since you brought up memories, will you hold my hand while we ride our horses through the rest of the trail? I've never had many romantic moments outside of you, so..... I'd like to know what it's like to ride through a peaceful part of the land with you, hand in hand." Oma's eyes softened, wanting the comfort that holding Armin's hand brought her.

Armin smiled, taking Oma's smaller hand into his. Her hand always reminded him of something made of silk, so delicate and something to treasure. His fingers laced with Oma's as they continued their slow trot through the trail. The longer they traveled along to their destination, the more Armin had the privilege to absorb his girlfriend in all her beauty. Her small curls were slicked into saves along her head, framing the shape of her face that complimented her features. Her light, fawn colored skin exposing the plethora of tattoos on her body, including the rose on the side of her neck.

Most would think to oversexualize the ink that covered her body, but he knew better. During the nights they would be cuddled with each other, Oma explained to him that it wasn't far-fetched for Yoruban women to be covered with tattoos, as the highest disciples of their goddess donned tattoos as well. The boy with ocean blue eyes wondered how he got so lucky to have her. The softness of her plump lips, the gaze of her eyes full of love, playfulness, and seduction. Her aura and energy brightened every room she stepped in, her outgoing and bubbly personality he found the most alluring. It was one of the things that drew him into her, that she was authentically herself in the best way. She was the best thing to ever happen to him, he just hoped he was making her just as happy as he was.

Armin's memory was starting to take in his surroundings, knowing for certain that they were approaching the destination he was surprising Omeretta with. There would be a small little gate nearby for visitors to place their horses, so that they could rest, drink water, and have a little bit of food while patrons were able to explore. His hands were gripping his reins a bit tightly, his anxiety exponentially increasing as they grew closer. Would she enjoy it? What if she was expecting more than what he had planned?

Don't be ridiculous. Oma loves the outdoors and nature, but what if that wasn't what she thought was happening today? I don't want to disappoint her at all....... I...... I want this to be perfect. S-something that makes her smile and she'll hold dear to her heart.

He deeply inhaled before dismounting his horse, taking Oma's reins out of her hands, gently cooing at Willow. Oma was curious as to where he was leading her and his horse. All she could see was some sort of stables for their horses. As they drew closer, her eyes noticed that no one was around or here, but there was plenty of room and supplies for the horses to be tended to. Where could they be going? There were no other horses here other than theirs, so it had her excited and nervous at the same time.

"Armeen, bebe, where are we? Is it another thoughtful surprise? Maybe I should close my eyes." Omeretta couldn't help but ask questions, as she watched Armin secure Willow in one of the stalls.

Her curiosity was contagious, but Armin really liked that about her. Always willing to have new adventures, even when he had his own reservations about exploring. "You could say that..... Yes. Here, let me help you down, okay?"

"Oh, Armeen! Be careful, I could've not had any panties on underneath my skirt ~" Omeretta held onto Armin's shoulders until her feet touched the solid dirt beneath their feet.

"Well...... there's no one around, so it would just be for me to see. Not in a pervy way or anything! I.... I haven't ever done anything in public or....." Armin stammered, trying to keep the images of a naked Oma out of his mind. He definitely didn't need any blood rushing to places that it doesn't need to be right now.

Omeretta silently hushed him, nuzzling her nose against his. "Bebe, relax, it's okay. You've seen me without my underwear, and no one is around. No need to fret. Come, I've got our basket full of goodies and a blanket inside. I'll be alright closing my eyes, as long as you keep me steady."

"Sure thing, Oma. Just stay close to me, so you don't trip." Armin held her hands, his chest against Oma's back and her large sized bottom.

It would only be another five-minute walk until they reached the edge of the hill. The edge had the most gorgeous view Armin had laid his eyes on; he couldn't wait to show Oma. The breezy air passing through the trees, hearing the rustling of the leaves in a peaceful flutter, the sun shining at its highest peak.

As Oma continued to hear Armin gently guide her to their final destination, she kept her breath steady. The Yoruban woman didn't have a reason to be nervous or scared, Armin always did his due diligence to protect her and keep her safe. It was more of excitement towards what he had in store for them today. Having something special and sweet to look forward to from her honey. This, being with Armin, falling so endlessly in love with him each day, learning something new about him, and embracing his love that he gave her, this is what life was meant to be. No Titans, no war, no life-threatening devastation. Just them leaving a peaceful life.

"Okay, Oma, you can open your eyes now." Armin's voice softly tickled her right ear, his hands moving to her hip and small of her back so that she wouldn't fall.

Her eyes slowly opened, the sight before her was unlike anything she's experienced in her entire existence. She had seen her fair share of what nature had to offer in the forests in Wall Rose, but what Armin found felt like this was a once in a lifetime chance. Patience was a virtue as she had been told for many years of her childhood. Rather, good things came to those who waited. Perhaps there was some merit to it after all. The sea of yellow, the color of the sun that gave the Earth its ability to flourish and grow. Yellow, the spiritual manifestation of happiness that signified renewal, enlightenment, clarity, and good fortune. Omeretta looked best in yellow as her loved ones told her. Who knew the land beneath her feet and the trails that expanded far and wide from where she stood would be full of the color that brightened her fawn-colored skin.

"Oh, Armeen! This is........ it's so beautiful..... a field full of sunflowers.... you.... you remembered......," Omeretta was overwhelmed with happiness, feeling the tears coming down her cheeks already. Out of all her previous relationships as a teenager, none of those previous partners have ever thought to remember the things she enjoyed like Armin did.

The minute he heard any sniffling, Armin realized she was crying. "O-Oma! I didn't mean to make you cry, I wanted this to be something we —"

Omeretta's lips collided with his, being sure not to whack him with their basket full of lunch for the day. Her hands slightly gripped his around his lower back, consumed by the affection she expressed towards her boyfriend. When she didn't think Armin could be any more thoughtful and loving towards her, he always did something else to top what he's done before. Oma didn't mean to cry, but whenever Armin did anything remotely full of thought, especially when it came to something he remembered her telling him when they spent time together........ she couldn't help but feel overwhelmed with happiness, appreciation, and gratitude she had a man who not only loved her, but actually behaved in ways that show he likes her and wants to do things with and for her.

Armin couldn't help but kiss her back, loving how incredibly affectionate, caring, and naturally sweet Omeretta was to him. Armin had never experienced such love, attentiveness, and genuine care from another person outside of his family. Eren and Mikasa were his found family, but what he was receiving from Oma seemed like it connected straight to his soul. The natural love from her touched him like he's never felt since his grandpa Armin was alive, the one person other than his parents that he loved unconditionally. If there was a God, he sent a beautiful, incredible woman that he was privileged to call his. This love was one he never thought he'd have, that he'd depart this world not knowing the spark that brought him a smile on his face, laughs from his belly, and warmth that would keep him going each day.

"O-Oma?" He gently separated their lips from one another, caressing her cheek in comfort.

The Yoruban-Tangale beauty kept her tattooed hand on top of his cupping her cheek. "I know I keep saying this but....... you're so incredible, Armin. Getting to see this gorgeous view with you has...... I don't have any words to describe how elated, excited, and so full of love I feel being with you. Having someone in my life that cares about me, takes an interest in me and what I enjoy.

"When we first met, I know you were in disbelief that no one thought to do nice things for me, but I wouldn't lie to you. My previous partners...... I don't even think they really liked me if I have to be honest. I was available and easy on the eyes, but you...... you treat me more than that. I...... I fall in love with you so much each day. You're such a bright part of my life, I love you, bebe."

Armin kissed her cheek, earning a small giggle from his beloved. He always appreciated her expressing gratitude for him, including his kind gestures. "I love you too, so much. I know you're excited, so why don't we go down and walk through the fields? There's a small meadow on the other side there, we can enjoy our lunch while we enjoy the view."

"Yes! I'm so excited for you to try some of the things I made. I learned some things about Marleyan cuisine from some books that I nabbed from Yelena...... because I wasn't going to ask someone to help me learn how to cook." Oma couldn't help but let her pride somewhat get the better of her. Ain't no way the pale folk were gonna tell her how to season and jazz up her cooking. Nobody.

Armin kept her body close to his, guiding her around an alternate path that would lead them to the fields of sunflowers. He knew Oma was going to want to take her shoes off and really become one with nature. It was something that he learned from Captain Neveah once upon a time, when she spoke of her experiences visiting Yoruba. How Yoruban people would walk around in the summertime barefoot, letting the soil beneath their feet connect with them spiritually and appreciating the Earth that their goddess created.

Maybe I should do this with her? I want to respect her faith, even if I don't have a set one, I do believe in a higher power. Or will she think that I'm weird for doing it?

"Gosh, I can't believe we get to spend our day here together! This is what I wanted, to be able to see the beauty of the world around us, even if it's not outside of our island. I would hate for this stupid war to ruin the beauty that we have to offer here. I don't understand, how can another country be so hellbent on harming innocent people who did nothing their predecessors did......." Oma's voice was lost in the wind that was blowing around them, just enough to ruffle the bottom of her floor length skirt.

The question on everyone's mind dropped from her tongue, causing Armin to stop for a moment. She brought up a good point, one he often wondered about himself. Why was Marley and other countries not willing to negotiate and talk things out peacefully? Mikasa had proposed that it was because they didn't know any better. That would be true...... if they were dealing with children. It wasn't children pressing anti-Eldian propaganda for several hundred years. No, that was the adults, corrupted by their own greed and selfish motives.

The same wind that carried the bottom of her garment slowly moved through his blonde tresses as well, letting nature kiss his face. "I don't know, there's so much at work here...... I have no idea why anyone would want to harm anyone. I do know that I'll always protect you. I......I won't let anything happen to you, Oma."

"I know, bokkie. I'm sorry I brought it up, I'm supposed to be enjoying a nice afternoon with my honey right now and that's what I'm going to do." Oma smiled, continuing their stroll down to the field of yellow.

Her eyes glanced again on the endless sea of yellow, already planning to let her feet experience the soil that grew these flowers, to connect with nature once more, thus connecting with her goddess and ancestors. The feeling of being weightless and not thinking about anything but the beauty around them was something that helped Omeretta feel whole. Even as a little girl, she was always outside playing with her friends in the village, spending time with her friends and neighbors. All the summer celebrations around a bonfire, the dancing, the spiritual holidays were all a huge part of Omeretta's life and building positive, core memories in her life. Now that Armin is now a part of her life, hopefully integrating himself into her family will bring a healing quality to his life.

Armin deserves to be happy and feel whole again. I know that our relationship isn't built upon healing each other's traumas, but it doesn't mean that he can't build community and surround himself with people who love and embrace him.

Before she knew it they were in the midst of the vibrant field of yellow, the flowers and stalks reaching just over her head. She wondered what kind of variety of sunflowers these were? The ones that her papa always planted at home were never so tall. There was still enough sunlight that hit parts of the ground that they were planted in.

"Bebe, would you mind holding my shoes, please? I....... ummmm.......," Oma couldn't help but awkwardly hold onto their basket a bit tighter. She knows she shouldn't be embarrassed, but it was a bit of an odd question to ask.

"It's okay, you don't have to be shy. Uhh...... Captain Neveah explained to me about how it's common in the village to walk barefoot. I know it's a way that you all connect with the goddess, right? You don't have to refrain because of me, Oma, I promise."

"Okay!" Oma couldn't help but chirp, sliding her feet out of her sandals before handing them to him.

The soles of her feet could gently feel the mild softness of the soil, cooler in temperature than she thought. Hopefully the farmers hadn't just watered them, as she didn't want to ruin anything that would threaten such beauty that her five senses could experience. Her toes wiggled in the soil, taking in a deep breath as she gently pulled Armin's arm for them to keep walking. The couple continued their observation of the beauty around them, Armin echoing her thoughts about the variety of sunflower that was able to grow this tall. Their hands gently reached for the petals, feeling the texture against the pads of their fingers without plucking. The smiles and laughter they shared were genuine, saccharine like the sweetest dessert one could eat. To be genuinely in love and feeling free to express that love was the best part of Omeretta's life right now.

Oma nearly jumped, feeling Armin's hand caress behind her ear.....until she realized what was there. When did he – ?

"I promised I wouldn't pick any of the sunflowers, I...... I managed to find one that seemed to have fallen in the soil when you weren't paying attention. I'm sorry ... .I......you're very beautiful when you wear yellow, I thought the sunflower would fit." Armin was blushing like a cherry tomato, Oma's heart melting into a puddle for the umpteenth time since they became a couple.

"Awwww, Armeen ~ you're so adorable and sweet! Thank you, that compliment coming from you means the world to me!" Oma's lips curved into a toothy grin, letting the physical reactions of her happiness flow through her.

Oma and Armin finally made it across the fields to the small hill that would give them another pleasant view of the fields while they enjoyed their lunch. The view as they enjoyed Oma's cooking was spectacular, being able to experience optimal spring weather on their blanket while enjoying a variety of foods she learned to make for the both of them. She continued to remain observant of Armin, the curves of his lips when he smiled and laughed, his cerulean eyes radiating the brightest energy from his spirit, and how his eyes softened every time he looked at her. She made a silent prayer to her goddess, thanking her for experiencing such a lovely human being, being able to have her person now and forever more.

Who knew that the boy with eyes as bright, deep, strong and calm as the tides of the ocean would bring out the color yellow from her soul with a sunflower tucked behind her ear .....

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