STRONGEST HOPE (ERERI❤RIREN)

CHAPTER 43 - FINDING ARMIN

The headquarters building stood silent as all of the scouts struggled with Erwin's death and the aftermath of the fight. Dazed, tired and licking their wounds, few soldiers milled about, even in the midday sun.

It was almost noon before Eren and Levi stirred in each other's arms. They looked at each other for a while, as if the other might vanish. Levi traced the boy's lips with his fingers, and watched tears form in his eyes.

"Tell me," he whispered.

Eren hiccuped as the tears made their way down his cheeks. "I was so close, Heichou. Seconds earlier and I would have been there in time."

Frowning, Levi shook his head. "The only thing we know is that Erwin decided to sacrifice himself for Armin. That's the only thing we know for sure."

"He winked at me after I grabbed the titan's wrist." Eren wouldn't look Levi in the eye, but was surprised at the sound of him chuckling.

"Babe?" Levi lifted Eren's chin. "He was in complete control. He knew what he was doing."

"What do you mean?"

"It would be awful if Erwin had died, unaware of his purpose. But, he knew what he was doing and had no regrets about it." The Captain's eyes sparkled with tears. "It makes me feel better to know that."

Eren smiled. "I'm glad it makes you feel better. What if Armin hates me for it?"

The Captain kissed his forehead and looked into his eyes. "That's not going to happen, but why don't you try and find him. I have to check on Hange too."

The lovers got out of bed and hugged one another close. They both got dressed in comfortable clothes and headed out into the hallway to find their best friends.

Eren went to Armin's room and walked through the open door. He found Mikasa tidying up. Unaware of his presence, she started to make the bed. She always knew what to do when these things happened, he thought. She took care of everything, thanklessly. He would do all he could to no longer take her for granted or scorn her care. "Mikasa," he whispered.

She jumped and whirled around. "Jesus, Eren." Shaking her head, she plumped the pillows. He watched her work until she finished. Straightening, she walked to him and wordlessly put her arms around him. He pulled her to him snugly and rested his chin on her head. "How's the Captain?"

He closed his eyes and sighed. "He's hurting, but he'll be okay, I think." He pulled away a little from her and leaned on the dresser. "It will take some time."

"For all of us," Mikasa said.

"Yes, for all of us." Looking around the room, Eren looked at the haphazard stack of books on the coconut's desk. "I wish I didn't feel so helpless to make them feel better."

She nodded. "There's nothing we can do but show up for them...every day. Until time goes by and it doesn't hurt as much."

"Mikasa?"

"Yes, Eren."

"Thank you for all of the days you've showed up for me." He looked at her with a small smile. "I wouldn't be here if it weren't for you."

She looked at him, blinking away tears, her bangs hanging in her eyes. Raising a hand to Eren's face, she smiled. "I love you, Eren."

Eren placed his hand over hers. "I love you too, Mika'."

Clearing her throat and slipping her hand from his cheek, she stood up straight. "I'm going to go to bed."

"Of course. You've had a long night." He placed his hand on the top of her head. "Do you know where Armin's gone?"