The Heart of Humanity

Chapter 14: A Chance

Erwin stared at the flowers in his hand, unsure if this was considered old-fashioned or how to go about any of this. It had been so long since he had asked a woman out on a date, but with Hange's relentless badgering he decided it was time to talk. So, he had requested Eva meet with him after dinner and her evening run. It had only been a week since the incident, and Eva was still very obviously upset with him. He had his doubts if she'd even come.

"Hey." He turned, a little startled. She moved so quietly sometimes it was impressive. Eva eyed the flowers in his hand as her hands settled in her sweater.

"You have two minutes." Erwin sighed, setting the flowers on the bench next to him as he took a seat. Eva remained standing.

"I wanted to apologize," He began.

"I was out of line getting between you and Hange. You were correct, I was jealous, and I acted out childishly," He admitted. Eva noticed him wringing his hands and relaxed her stance, this wasn't what she had expected.

"I'm new at this in some ways Eva. It's been a while since I've found interest in anyone but you with your passion and energy, you've been like a breath of fresh air. Before we met it was all routine, even the request for help in the Underground but you were unexpected. You took me by surprise, and I'm not a man who is easily surprised," He explained.

"What are you trying to say?" She asked and he looked up at her, noticing she had stepped closer.

"I have feelings for you Eva and I was foolish to think otherwise. I would like to explore a relationship with you if you'll still have me." Eva raised her brow, trying to hide her smile.

"How would this work exactly?"

"I took the liberty of speaking with the Commander, I hope you don't mind. I expressed my interest in dating a subordinate and although it is unconventional, he said it wasn't impossible" He replied.

"What are the rules?"

"You could no longer be on my team. I could no longer be involved with your training or any professional aspect of your life. You would also have to speak to the Commander so he knows you're not being pressured into this, and Hange has offered to supervise while we're on duty just to keep everything above board," He explained. Eva nodded slightly. 

"I wouldn't want special treatment anyways." Erwin figured as much. Eva desired to succeed on her own merit, and the rules were fair.

"I do have one request," She said suddenly.

"Anything."

"Discretion," She replied, meeting his gaze.

"I-I can't have this getting back to Levi," He nodded in understanding. Although, he was still a little concerned about having to hide things.

"Of course, but you will have to tell him eventually."

"I know and I will. When we know that this is actually something worth telling," She promised.

"Very well," Erwin agreed. He supposed she was right, and there was no reason to upset Levi if this turned out to be nothing.

"So...are those for me?" Eva asked, motioning to the flowers. Erwin smiled slightly, reaching for them.

"As I said, it's been a while. I wasn't sure how to proceed or what you liked or where we'd go from here. We still barely know each other," He reminded, handing her the flowers. Eva smiled as she took them.

"Well, what do you want to know?" She asked and he looked up at her as she offered her hand. Erwin took it, and she pulled him up.

"Where are we going?"