The Toxic Wasters

10. The American Dream

- 4 years ago-

"This is so exciting!"

Levi had finished walking through security when Eren's mother cheerfully stated her enthusiasm.

Mikasa had told their parents Eren was dating a male. He apparently had never officially told his parents he enjoyed a man's company. But the two were excited Eren finally had a happy relationship.

Eren's father booked a trip for the family to stay in France for a week, a way to connect with Levi. But Levi has never flown anywhere before, and he was a bit nervous, he didn't want anyone to see how easily he submitted to his paranoia.

Eren pressed his hand on the small of Levi's back when he was close enough. The little contact helped settle Levi's nerves. He unintentionally leaned into the touch and stumbled a bit before catching himself. Eren chuckled behind him before pressing a kiss to the crown of his head.

"Feeling a bit nervous?" he questioned, his voice muffled by Levi's hair. The raven hummed and nodded slightly. He was embarrassed of his paranoia. "Don't worry, I'm right here."

Eren intertwined his fingers with Levi's and squeezed his hand.

Ever since New Year's, Eren had kept a close eye on the raven. Any signs of an episode and Eren was by his side. He had been researching ways to help Levi as well. Avidly searching for a professional to further help his mental state.

He hadn't had many people like Eren in his life. And he still wasn't sure he was used to the affection. Whenever Eren mentioned a new method or suggest further research into a potential therapist, it took Levi off guard. Eren would tell the raven his reactions were endearing as Levi keeled over into a blushing mess.

"We have a few hours before we board, if you want something to eat get something now," Mrs. Jaeger explained as she sat down by their respective gate. Eren's hand squeezed his. "I'm going to grab a bagel if you want to join," he suggested. Levi nodded quickly. He was not ready for any awkward conversations while he was alone with Eren's parents. Plus he would like to stay as far away from Mikasa as possible.

"We're going to walk around for a bit," Eren told his mother. "Alright, make sure you're back by eleven," she explained. He nodded before pressing a kiss to her cheek.

Eren took Levi's hand with a bright smile that always made Levi weak.

The couple found a small bakery around the corner. Levi was grateful to see an assortment of tea on the menu. Eren ordered two everything bagels and Levi ordered Jasmine tea.

They sat down at a table for two. "Are you sure you don't want something to eat? It'll be a long trip and plane food is far from stellar," Eren pointed out as he spread cream cheese on one of his bagels. Levi shook his head, "I'm fine."

Eren didn't seem convinced but he stayed quiet. Levi took a sip of his jasmine tea, feeling his nerves ease as the warmth spread through his body.

"You're parents seem nice," Levi commented. Eren smirked, cream cheese on his cheek. The raven leaned over the table, cursed his short stature as he reached over to wipe away the mess. He sat back down as he sucked the cream cheese off his thumb.

Eren held a suggestive look in his eyes but said, "I'm glad. They seem to like you too."

Levi smiled at his response but tried to ignore his hungry eyes. "I thought you and your dad didn't get along."

Eren lost the look in his eyes replaced with an annoyed gaze. "He's been working on himself since I started high school, but he can still be an asshole behind closed doors," he replied.