Haha, it's okay. [He'll say in a reassuring tone - one he's used many times before on Eren.]
I get it now. You were trying to work out your own feelings, but you were worried about ruining our friendship because of those feelings, right? [Elliot could relate.]
[ Stop . . . Stop reading his mind . . . ! ! ! Or for the better, please continue. Elliot's summed it up much better than we would've anyway. Looking slightly abashed, his shoulders rising to hide his neck and lower his head. Even with that, he's with someone that understands him. Or, understands the deal. ]
K-Kinda. [He has known Eren for years. For the most part, he understood how he ticked] But it's more I felt the same. I know I got pretty weird there too...
[He scratches the back of his head with the hand underneath it] That's probably why I agreed to that date with Franklin in the first place. I mean, I really did want to see Rent, but... [...] I thought maybe if I dated other people, I'd get over you and then I wouldn't do anything to ruin our friendship.
Haha, guess that plan backfired in a big way, huh?
The fact that they were both thinking so similarly has Eren a little baffled, if not even more stupid to have not done something sooner. Realized, even, Elliot's own subtle hints that flew over his head. Sure, he needed to work out his own things out, like understanding a little bit more of what was going on (he hadn't identified as gay, but hell if he's going to lose neurons thinking about that again). ]
For us both. [ After a moment, he gives a tiny squeeze, as if to get his attention. ] How long've you—?
[ How long were they both stupid so that they can laugh at this, forever. ]
He seems to hesitate at the question, even blushing a little, just thinking about it. But there was no point in denying it, really. Tonight's events had swept away the last of the big secrets he kept from Eren. ]
Ahaha..a-awhile? I think the last time you visited New York was when I realized...
[Realized, at least. How long he had actually had feelings for Eren? He wasn't sure himself. Maybe it had been during that visit to New York, or maybe it had been since the first day they met. Some composer he was, unable to pinpoint the exact moment his heart fell for another]
...Y-you?
[IF I HAVE TO CONFESSTO THIS EMBARRASSMENT, YOU DO TOO]
[ Honesty from here on out was the best policy!! That and, he might even be paving the road to be honest from the start. No hiding anything, for as odd as it may seem. Jasmine was right about people that truly care would either understand or make a genuine effort to. He knows the type of person Elliot is, or else— he wouldn't even be holding his hand right now. ]
I . . . [ He's on the same boat as Elliot, in fact. He's not pausing because he's embarrassed, as much as they're both sharing that red shade, but to actually put it as clear as possible. When did he? ] I've cared more about you since we met, but.
[ It's like he had mentioned to another, when seeking aid— He knew him for years, he adored him. He was the guy who'd go out of his way to want to genuinely interact with Eren. ]
I never liked anyone before. [ At least, not like this. He probably thought he was just super fond of him— he wasn't even into dating, or guys. ] I started realizing how much when you moved here.
[ He was within reach, he could see him everyday if he wanted, and he found himself wanting to constantly. ]
[Elliot shuts his eyes for a moment, with a clear smile on his face, as if he's trying to visualize Eren's answer for a moment. ]
Heehee, what a pair we make, huh? [He sounds both so happy and amused at that. Both of them had feelings for some time before realizing, and both took their times to do something about it once they did.
But yet here they were now, talking things out and being together. It had taken years and miles to get here, but they were here, by some chance. It almost felt like destiny to Elliot. Which was a comforting thought for Elliot, but with how much Eren valued his own freedom and autonomy...he decided not to voice it. It wasn't needed.
Instead he'll open his eyes up again and look at him. ]
I get it. Back when we mostly just chatting online, it was really easy to pretend I was overthinking it, you know? Or that I was just imagining having feelings. But...when you came to help me move in your uniform...
Well, I really did mean that bodyguard remark. I-it was hard not to check you out.
[ Oh, oh boy, what. Him, check him out? He may not find the appeal, but he knows what it means. The frank version: you looked really cool and attractive. Remember that day, when Eren's ears turned into two ripe tomatos, and he didn't know where to put his sheepish face? Eren, no self preservation and always ready to swing fists, mistakingly angry, takes things more serious than he should, now here, smiling and fidgeting like some— he didn't even know.
Here come the blunder of words that aren't really coherent enough to be words under his breath. He's embarrassed! The good kind of embarrassed, he's flattered. He was really cool and dashing in that uniform.
He attempts to say something, but it just comes out as strange babble. He's trying to English, and ironically— if it weren't Elliot he'd just shrug it off. Uh, okay. Not interested. It actually being someone of interest changes everything. Was he attracted to him as well? Of course, how many times was he caught simply staring at him? Differently, but still staring. This is rather funny to watch. A broke record Eren. ]
I— didn't think anyone would, so when you said that— [ Overthinking so much that he denied any underlying meanings in that statement the first time. Like— Elliot? Liking and being attracted to someone like him? ] I thought I was being crazy.
[ Especially when he never really cared about it! And hey, since they're talking about this . . . ]
[That was...some reaction. There was babbling, near incoherent statements, blundering. Elliot can't help it, he starts laughing. Not one of his short little laughs that tend to be flags for his emotions, it's a laugh that comes up from his stomach and lasts a good length of time, making him unable to speak for a bit.
Like most of Elliot's laughs, there's no malice or mockery mixed into it. It's still loving and affectionate. He wasn't laughing at Eren - honestly it was hard to pinpoint the exact reason he was laughing. Maybe it was all the high running emotions finally letting themselves out, or just how stupid they both seemed now that they were being open with one another, or just seeing Eren Jaeger of all people squirm so much over something he said. Or maybe it was even his own sudden embarrassment at the thought that Eren had been looking at him too pushed his nerves over the edge. Whatever it was, the entire situation just seemed so...funny.]
S-Sorry. [He tries to apologize in between breaths and laughing sounds.] Y-You weren't [ha] crazy.
[ At least his laugh gets him to loosen up rather than tense further! It's a happy, enjoyable chortle that has Eren giving a slight haha along with it. He doesn't go the extra mile to laugh that hard at himself, but it's all in good humor.
He's visibly happy, beaming even, and Eren's wow'd that he could cause a bit of that. Elliot's done the same after all, just look at him. He could stay here all night if he could, just sit here and count the stars, or just make each other laugh like that— it's been a while since he's laughed.
He wishes he can stay longer, but a look at the moon has him giving a sigh, the light hold on Elliot's hand earning a squeeze. In a matter of seconds, his phone begins to vibrate in his pocket, and he hangs his head as he sits up. That's his curfew alarm, to a rockin' version of the Air Force melody. ]
Gotta go.
[ The first time in probably ever: the look in Eren's eyes to go back to the Fort isn't an excited one. He's—disappointed. At least there's only one week left until freedom to roam. He'll only have to go to class and train in the mornings at much more flexible hours, like any college student. ]
[Hearing Eren's phone brings Elliot back down to reality again, his laughter finally tempering off. He uses his hand to wipe the tears in his eyes made from all the laughter. He knows he heard Eren laughing too, which is alone to make him happy. Eren doesn't laugh nearly as easily as he does. ]
Oh...that late already?
[Eren's look of disappointment is matched by Elliot's own. It's hard not to feel disappointment. No one would want to leave a moment this wonderful. There's a quick thought in his head that tells him to encourage Eren to ignore the alarm. To stay out here a little longer. By the look in Eren's eyes, it probably wouldn't be a hard sell at all.
But even if that's tempting...Elliot dismisses the thought. He didn't want to get Eren in trouble. Not when he was so close to achieving his dream. So he'll blink away his own disappointed look, and offer Eren a small, empathetic but understanding smile. His free hand will reach over and very lightly touch Eren's shoulder.]
You can do it. I'll wait. It's just one more week.
[ It's actually quite early going by normal hours— but he still had to leave his car elsewhere, bound up to the fort by foot and help organize the dorms and clean himself up before its lights out. It wouldn't be difficult to sell at all, what would five extra minutes do?
But if he didn't have the discipline here, he wouldn't have it anywhere. He knows it's important, and when Elliot's hand is on his shoulder— he couldn't be happier with the understanding, warmth bubbling in his smile. ]
. . . Promise I'll make up for it. [ He just wants to— spend time with him, now. Spend time and talk and just be around him. Make up for all that time he lost. ] And— there's a surprise coming up.
[Ah, just seeing Eren's warm smile made it all the worth it. In some ways, this still almost felt like a dream. Like he was going to wake up in a moment because he drifted off while studying. But that hand holding onto him, the feeling of the fabric on Eren's shoulder- it reminded him very much that this is happening]
Heehee, I'll hold you to it. [He's not really serious about that. Eren didn't have to make up for anything, as far as he was concerned. But good luck convincing Eren that.
[ His whole flight agreed to present only at the ceremony— so no sneak peaks. While a group thing, each one would have something unique to it to represent each wingman. And honestly, he's always wanted to do something like it.
It is a mystery, but putting his free hand against his shoulder, he loosens the hold he had on Elliot's hand to roll his dominant shoulder blade. ]
[ Sliding off the car hood to Elliot's side, he'll push himself back into his feet to get the door for him. At least, that's what it looks like. He's standing in front of the door so you can't get in. Of course, he'd rather be inviting him to another extra few hours of stargazing, but . . . Here's the next best thing. ]
Ready for part two?
[ The road's pretty clear from here to that straight . . . . ]
[ You heard right! Part two. With a nod, and cocking his head for Elliot to get into the opposite side (that's certainly the driver's side) Eren clicks the door open and— plops right into the passenger seat.
[Wait what is he doing why is he sitting in his spot-
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
No way.
He jumps a little, his face in total shock as his hand goes to his chest. He doesn't move yet, but instead tries to talk to Eren before he shuts the door]
Wait! You're gonna let me drive?!
[Elliot knew how to drive. He didn't own a car because of expenses, but he had a license. But still, this was Eren's baby]
[ And the time has come for Elliot to give it a go— seal the night with something that made them look more than forward to the next meet up. Regardless, Eren was already looking forward to it. He might have shut the door, but he immediately lowers down the window for Elliot, especially to hold a fist out to him. ]
That's the plan.
[ Lies, there was no plan— he just felt it'd be a cool thing to do. And from his fist falls into the other's hand: the keys. ]
[The keys fall into his hand, and he stares for a moment with his jaw opened. This is happening. Eren is going to let him drive. Eren's going to let him drive his super nice car.
It takes a moment for him to overcome his shock before he shuffles over to the driver's side. He's both really anxious and really excited. Eren was sure though- so he might as well focus on the excitement right???
He'll get into the driver's seat and-- well obviously, have to adjust the seat so he's closer because he's shorter than Eren. Then he buckles his seatbelt and puts the keys into the ignition, turning it on so the engine comes to life]
[ He probably wouldn't use the word "cute", but something akin to how Elliot's excitable reaction makes him light up like a genially lit Christmas tree. Buckling up, Eren gives a light chuckle as he reaches for the media screen to tap at one of the playlists. Maybe some classics . . . AC/DC Essentials.
You're really gonna feel it asking for it, so don't hesitate to floor those straights.
[ He's got safety mechanisms to make the curves and keep the car stable, so there really was nothing to worry! Just have a little sense and the car was completely safe. The vibrations against the wheel alone show the motor's potency, and with every rumble it makes, it's tempting. It was made to run. ]
[When the song comes on, Elliot gives a grin and a thumbs up. Good choice. His head bobs along with the music as he puts the car into reverse and starts pulling it back onto the road. Luckily, this must be a road that's not used a whole lot, because there's not a single car around.
He'll drive it at normal speeds for a little bit until he's sure he's got the hang of the car. It really does handle nicely- better than anything he's ever driven. When he's ready and near the straights that Eren sped earlier, he'll clutch the wheel tightly and count to himself:]
3...2...1-
[He hits on the accelerator and the speed of the car shoots up. 80...90...100..higher and higher. Elliot is focused entirely on the road, doing everything he can to make sure he doesn't veer off and crash. Fortunately, if all the forced police courses taught him anything useful? It was how to handle high speed chases- so crashing is a pretty low chance here.
And from the grin on his face? He's having the time of his life. What a perfect way to end a perfect evening.]
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I get it now. You were trying to work out your own feelings, but you were worried about ruining our friendship because of those feelings, right? [Elliot could relate.]
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Y—yeah. [ Oh well. ] Am I that predictable?
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K-Kinda. [He has known Eren for years. For the most part, he understood how he ticked] But it's more I felt the same. I know I got pretty weird there too...
[He scratches the back of his head with the hand underneath it] That's probably why I agreed to that date with Franklin in the first place. I mean, I really did want to see Rent, but... [...] I thought maybe if I dated other people, I'd get over you and then I wouldn't do anything to ruin our friendship.
Haha, guess that plan backfired in a big way, huh?
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The fact that they were both thinking so similarly has Eren a little baffled, if not even more stupid to have not done something sooner. Realized, even, Elliot's own subtle hints that flew over his head. Sure, he needed to work out his own things out, like understanding a little bit more of what was going on (he hadn't identified as gay, but hell if he's going to lose neurons thinking about that again). ]
For us both. [ After a moment, he gives a tiny squeeze, as if to get his attention. ] How long've you—?
[ How long were they both stupid so that they can laugh at this, forever. ]
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He seems to hesitate at the question, even blushing a little, just thinking about it. But there was no point in denying it, really. Tonight's events had swept away the last of the big secrets he kept from Eren. ]
Ahaha..a-awhile? I think the last time you visited New York was when I realized...
[Realized, at least. How long he had actually had feelings for Eren? He wasn't sure himself. Maybe it had been during that visit to New York, or maybe it had been since the first day they met. Some composer he was, unable to pinpoint the exact moment his heart fell for another]
...Y-you?
[IF I HAVE TO CONFESSTO THIS EMBARRASSMENT, YOU DO TOO]
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I . . . [ He's on the same boat as Elliot, in fact. He's not pausing because he's embarrassed, as much as they're both sharing that red shade, but to actually put it as clear as possible. When did he? ] I've cared more about you since we met, but.
[ It's like he had mentioned to another, when seeking aid— He knew him for years, he adored him. He was the guy who'd go out of his way to want to genuinely interact with Eren. ]
I never liked anyone before. [ At least, not like this. He probably thought he was just super fond of him— he wasn't even into dating, or guys. ] I started realizing how much when you moved here.
[ He was within reach, he could see him everyday if he wanted, and he found himself wanting to constantly. ]
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Heehee, what a pair we make, huh? [He sounds both so happy and amused at that. Both of them had feelings for some time before realizing, and both took their times to do something about it once they did.
But yet here they were now, talking things out and being together. It had taken years and miles to get here, but they were here, by some chance. It almost felt like destiny to Elliot. Which was a comforting thought for Elliot, but with how much Eren valued his own freedom and autonomy...he decided not to voice it. It wasn't needed.
Instead he'll open his eyes up again and look at him. ]
I get it. Back when we mostly just chatting online, it was really easy to pretend I was overthinking it, you know? Or that I was just imagining having feelings. But...when you came to help me move in your uniform...
Well, I really did mean that bodyguard remark. I-it was hard not to check you out.
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Here come the blunder of words that aren't really coherent enough to be words under his breath. He's embarrassed! The good kind of embarrassed, he's flattered. He was really cool and dashing in that uniform.
He attempts to say something, but it just comes out as strange babble. He's trying to English, and ironically— if it weren't Elliot he'd just shrug it off. Uh, okay. Not interested. It actually being someone of interest changes everything. Was he attracted to him as well? Of course, how many times was he caught simply staring at him? Differently, but still staring. This is rather funny to watch. A broke record Eren. ]
I— didn't think anyone would, so when you said that— [ Overthinking so much that he denied any underlying meanings in that statement the first time. Like— Elliot? Liking and being attracted to someone like him? ] I thought I was being crazy.
[ Especially when he never really cared about it! And hey, since they're talking about this . . . ]
But I still kept looking at you a lot.
[ good ]
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Like most of Elliot's laughs, there's no malice or mockery mixed into it. It's still loving and affectionate. He wasn't laughing at Eren - honestly it was hard to pinpoint the exact reason he was laughing. Maybe it was all the high running emotions finally letting themselves out, or just how stupid they both seemed now that they were being open with one another, or just seeing Eren Jaeger of all people squirm so much over something he said. Or maybe it was even his own sudden embarrassment at the thought that Eren had been looking at him too pushed his nerves over the edge. Whatever it was, the entire situation just seemed so...funny.]
S-Sorry. [He tries to apologize in between breaths and laughing sounds.] Y-You weren't [ha] crazy.
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He's visibly happy, beaming even, and Eren's wow'd that he could cause a bit of that. Elliot's done the same after all, just look at him. He could stay here all night if he could, just sit here and count the stars, or just make each other laugh like that— it's been a while since he's laughed.
He wishes he can stay longer, but a look at the moon has him giving a sigh, the light hold on Elliot's hand earning a squeeze. In a matter of seconds, his phone begins to vibrate in his pocket, and he hangs his head as he sits up. That's his curfew alarm, to a rockin' version of the Air Force melody. ]
Gotta go.
[ The first time in probably ever: the look in Eren's eyes to go back to the Fort isn't an excited one. He's—disappointed. At least there's only one week left until freedom to roam. He'll only have to go to class and train in the mornings at much more flexible hours, like any college student. ]
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Oh...that late already?
[Eren's look of disappointment is matched by Elliot's own. It's hard not to feel disappointment. No one would want to leave a moment this wonderful. There's a quick thought in his head that tells him to encourage Eren to ignore the alarm. To stay out here a little longer. By the look in Eren's eyes, it probably wouldn't be a hard sell at all.
But even if that's tempting...Elliot dismisses the thought. He didn't want to get Eren in trouble. Not when he was so close to achieving his dream. So he'll blink away his own disappointed look, and offer Eren a small, empathetic but understanding smile. His free hand will reach over and very lightly touch Eren's shoulder.]
You can do it. I'll wait. It's just one more week.
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But if he didn't have the discipline here, he wouldn't have it anywhere. He knows it's important, and when Elliot's hand is on his shoulder— he couldn't be happier with the understanding, warmth bubbling in his smile. ]
. . . Promise I'll make up for it. [ He just wants to— spend time with him, now. Spend time and talk and just be around him. Make up for all that time he lost. ] And— there's a surprise coming up.
[ He knew it was going to be hella cool. ]
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Heehee, I'll hold you to it. [He's not really serious about that. Eren didn't have to make up for anything, as far as he was concerned. But good luck convincing Eren that.
The last part perks his interests though]
A surprise? What kind of surprise?
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[ His whole flight agreed to present only at the ceremony— so no sneak peaks. While a group thing, each one would have something unique to it to represent each wingman. And honestly, he's always wanted to do something like it.
It is a mystery, but putting his free hand against his shoulder, he loosens the hold he had on Elliot's hand to roll his dominant shoulder blade. ]
But it's guaranteed to be cool.
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[He'll pull his own hand off Eren's shoulder, still smiling at him.]
I'll look forward to it.
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Ready for part two?
[ The road's pretty clear from here to that straight . . . . ]
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Part two?
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Bye Elliot. ]
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!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
No way.
He jumps a little, his face in total shock as his hand goes to his chest. He doesn't move yet, but instead tries to talk to Eren before he shuts the door]
Wait! You're gonna let me drive?!
[Elliot knew how to drive. He didn't own a car because of expenses, but he had a license. But still, this was Eren's baby]
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That's the plan.
[ Lies, there was no plan— he just felt it'd be a cool thing to do. And from his fist falls into the other's hand: the keys. ]
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It takes a moment for him to overcome his shock before he shuffles over to the driver's side. He's both really anxious and really excited. Eren was sure though- so he might as well focus on the excitement right???
He'll get into the driver's seat and-- well obviously, have to adjust the seat so he's closer because he's shorter than Eren. Then he buckles his seatbelt and puts the keys into the ignition, turning it on so the engine comes to life]
O-Okay! Buckle up and pick the music!
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We've got a winner. Turn down for what! ]
You're really gonna feel it asking for it, so don't hesitate to floor those straights.
[ He's got safety mechanisms to make the curves and keep the car stable, so there really was nothing to worry! Just have a little sense and the car was completely safe. The vibrations against the wheel alone show the motor's potency, and with every rumble it makes, it's tempting. It was made to run. ]
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[When the song comes on, Elliot gives a grin and a thumbs up. Good choice. His head bobs along with the music as he puts the car into reverse and starts pulling it back onto the road. Luckily, this must be a road that's not used a whole lot, because there's not a single car around.
He'll drive it at normal speeds for a little bit until he's sure he's got the hang of the car. It really does handle nicely- better than anything he's ever driven. When he's ready and near the straights that Eren sped earlier, he'll clutch the wheel tightly and count to himself:]
3...2...1-
[He hits on the accelerator and the speed of the car shoots up. 80...90...100..higher and higher. Elliot is focused entirely on the road, doing everything he can to make sure he doesn't veer off and crash. Fortunately, if all the forced police courses taught him anything useful? It was how to handle high speed chases- so crashing is a pretty low chance here.
And from the grin on his face? He's having the time of his life. What a perfect way to end a perfect evening.]