A Blooming Love Story (Erehisu)

Chapter 12

Eren tugs at the collar of the tuxedo he's wearing with a slicked-back bun. "Historia, are you sure I have to wear a tie?"

Historia turns around as she is putting on her earrings. "Yes, this is a campaign dinner. You have to look as neat as you can." She walks over to Eren. "And make sure you keep all that hair in the bun. If they see one strand out of place, they'll chastise you for it. Well, they will chastise you for anything, honestly."

"You sure are nervous for dinner."

"My whole family will be there. I stood up to my dad by telling him that I will be bringing you and I didn't back down when he tried to change my mind. I was confident yesterday but now, the nerves are setting in."

Eren rubs Historia's back encouragingly. "It'll be fine."

"Just don't bicker with anyone, okay? I know how they are and they may try and push a few of your buttons."

"I won't start anything if they don't try me then it won't be a problem."

"Eren."

"Okay, I won't, even if they push my buttons. Scout's honor."

"Good." She pecks Eren's lips and goes back to her makeup to apply lipstick. "The car should be here in ten minutes.

"And do we have to stay the whole time?"

"Yes."

"What do I get if I stay?"

"And if you behave?"

"Yeah."

"Nothing."

"Historia!"

"You wanted to come, I won't reward you for that."

Eren makes a sound of discontent and Historia laughs.

Ten minutes came sooner rather than later to pick up the two young lovers. The car ride was silent until the vehicle stopped in a dark area.

Eren looks around confused. "Where are we?"

The driver looks at them in the rearview. "This is the back of the event. I've been instructed to drop you guys here."

Historia opens the door. "Thank you for the ride."

Driver: "No problem."

Historia and Eren exit the vehicle.

Historia: "No one knows I exist. My dad is announcing me tonight so that means I cannot be seen beforehand."

Eren nods his head. "So that's why we're coming this way."

"Pretty much."

The security guard at the door allows them into the building after Historia and Eren show their ids. When they enter inside, a woman who looks identically to Historia comes rushing to them.

She runs and gives Historia a tight hug. "Historia!! I missed you so much!"

Historia laughs and returns the hug. "I missed you too."

She pulls away and looks at Eren. "Oh, and who's this?"

"Uh, this is Eren, my boyfriend."

Eren reaches out his hand. "Hi, nice to meet you."

The woman slowly shakes Eren's hand. "WHAT? You have a boyfriend?! Sorry, I'm Freida by the way."

Historia looks around. "Shsssh"

Freida speaks in a lower tone. "Why haven't you told me!"

"I wanted it to be a surprise."

"It is a BIG surprise. And I'm guessing dad must know of him if you're bringing him?"