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Chapter Text

𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗗𝗢𝗡’𝗧 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗬 𝗞𝗡𝗢𝗪 what you did to become the object of disdain for Porco Galliard. Upon your first encounter with him at freshman orientation, he was nothing but an arrogant, rude, pretentious snob - but that was beside the point. Ever since he spoke to you with a tone you couldn’t quite decipher, you became sworn enemies. It wasn’t like you had any reason to despise him as well, but the mere fact that he was rude to you for no reason was enough to label him as such.
In simpler terms, you couldn’t stand each other. Everything about him irritated you, from the way he walked like he owned the place, to the way he held his pencil, and even the type of cologne he used. He was insufferable, and it was as if the Universe conspired to torture you by making sure your friends associated with him more frequently than you’d like. You kept your distance, but he always found a way to be in your little orbit of space where only a few friends and your cat managed to reside. He was inevitably always there, just lingering.
You had already spent a year and a half attempting to understand why he acted the way he did. Did you rub him the wrong way? Did you leave a bad first impression? Were you annoying? But you could never find a reasonable explanation. He had never even given you a chance, his rudeness and general loathing of you clear before you even had an individual conversation with him. The detest he held for you radiated off of him whenever you were in his vicinity. So you came to the logical conclusion that he was just an asshole who couldn’t handle criticism, and that not every girl was at his feet.
That was another thing. The girls at Paradis University practically worshipped him. You couldn’t see what was so great about this mediocre soccer player. The more the girls around you swooned for him, the more you grew disgusted by him. Begrudgingly, you could admit he was easy on the eyes. But his terrible personality and evil demeanor should be enough to cancel that out! And you were sure he emptied half a bottle of gel on his head every day. Yet the Porco Fanclub persisted. Some days you felt like you were the only one with sense around him, who saw him for who he was. And who that was is not a good person. No matter how hard he might try to appear as one.
So when you caught sight of him, wearing his letterman jacket, backpack slung over one shoulder (another annoying habit of his) entering the Student Center, you lowered your head to avoid eye contact, acting engrossed with your Child Development homework. It was odd how even though Porco couldn’t tolerate you, he always made time to leave a snide remark or provoke you with a comment as he passed by you. Determined to not let him get to you, you acted as you normally would: pretending he didn’t exist.
Unfortunately, he seemed to have caught on to that trick.
“Yo, L/N.” He placed a beefy hand on your textbook, blocking your line of sight from the paragraph you were pretending to read. “Where’s Eren at?”
You glared at his hand, refusing to look up. If you did, it would be too late, and an argument would ensue. “As I’ve told you countless times before, Galliard, don’t call me that, and I am not Eren’s guardian. Get your greasy hand off my book.”
Porco scoffed, but removed his hand. “What bit you in the ass today?”
You rolled your eyes. “I was actually having a good day before you showed up. So are you done pestering me now? Are you lost or something? The school therapist is the other way.”
“Yeah, don’t worry. I won’t take up any more of your precious time. I can see you’re so busy, reading about-“ He bent down, bringing his head close to your hand to see the page heading, which just happened to be about egg fertilization. The action caused your breath to hitch in your throat. “Reproduction.” Porco snorted. “I gotta say, I wasn’t sure you were into that kind of stuff.”
You snapped your textbook shut. “It’s for a health class.” You mumbled. “And I doubt you even know much about the subject.”
“I know plenty.” Porco replied defensively. “Whatever, I just need to know where Eren is. So if you feel like actually being helpful for once-“
“I already told you I don’t know.” You snapped.
Just then, Mikasa arrived at your designated study table, holding two iced coffees. “What’s going on?” She asked, her eyes switching from yours to Porco.
“Do you know where Eren is?” Porco asked her, in a much nicer way than he had ever spoken to you.
Mikasa set the coffees down. “Yeah, he’s on his way to the cafeteria. Why?”
“I have to do a project with him. He told me he would be here.” Porco explained.
“Well, he should be on his way. You’re welcome to wait with us.”
Y/N shot Mikasa a glare. Since when was Porco welcome?
Noticing your look, Porco side eyed you as he declined Mikasa’s invitation. “I think I’ll have to pass. You said cafeteria?”
Mikasa nodded, and you squinted. “Did she not just say the cafeteria?” You blurted.
Porco stared at you. You stared back, not wanting to back down and appear intimidated by his gaze. His jaw clenched, and your grip on your pen tightened.
After a short, unspoken battle of gazes, Porco retreated, opting to ignore you instead. “Great, so I’ll go see if I can find him.” He said to Mikasa. “Thanks.” He turned and left the student center.
Sitting beside you, Mikasa whistled. “What was that about?”
“What? Porco being an ass? That should be normal by now.” You sneered, resuming your homework.
Mikasa shook her head. “No. Why was he talking to you like that?”
“Like what?” Your brow furrowed. You didn’t understand what she was trying to say. “Like he usually does? As if I’m a pest?”
“Like…” Mikasa pondered for a bit, trying to find the right words to express what she saw. “Like he knew you.”
You looked at her, perplexed. “I mean, doesn’t he know me? He hates me. He knows he hates me.”
Mikasa shrugged. “I don’t know. It was just an observation.”
You sighed, still not understanding her point. Changing the subject, you picked up an iced coffee. “Thanks for the coffee.”
Mikasa hummed in response. The dark haired girl pulled out a textbook, setting it down infront of her.
“Do you think we’ll actually get any work done this time?” She asked after a few minutes of silence. You blinked. She had noticed you were still on the same page of your worksheets since Porco left.
“Honestly… No.”
“Didn’t think so.”
-

“I’m going to work.” You called to Mikasa. “I’ll be back at ten.”
“See you! Be safe!” Mikasa called back.
She didn’t like you taking the bus so late, but as you were car-less, you didn’t have much choice. She offered to drive you or walk you, but you didn’t like to burden her too much with the chore of driving you places. Plus, she had a lot of homework to do.
Plugging your headphones in, you adjusted your beanie your friend Historia had made you and began the fifteen minute walk to Garrison’s, the local craft store you were employed at part time.
Mikasa Ackerman was your best friend, and coincidentally your roommate. She was good at being both; clean, neat, respectful and she made some quality meals. As a friend, she was honest, generous and had a sort of dry humor that never failed to crack you up.
You were sort of the opposite. You weren’t exactly winning any awards for cleanliest living space, and your cooking skills often fell short, but you were open to accepting your faults. Add to the list that you had no reliable way of transportation. You were extremely grateful to have been blessed with a roommate like Mikasa. Luckily, much of Paradis, and Trost, where you resided, was a pedestrian friendly city. Almost everything you did was within walking distance. (Although you and your friends often argued what ‘walking distance’ fell under; for you, a 30 minute walk was no biggie- for them, it was unspeakable.) You were used to not having a car, and as a consequence you were always on time to events.
Mikasa had introduced you to her ever present best friend, Eren Yeager. The green eyed boy was like her brother, and you had grown used to seeing him slouching on your shared couch whenever you returned from classes. He was cute, but completely off limits, as Mikasa was extremely overprotective of him. They had been raised together, which is something you could tell after just a few times meeting them. They often did things in sync, and unwittingly committed some of the same mannerisms.
Armin Arlert had also become your shared friend, as he was the self proclaimed “third wheel.” Once you came along and joined the friend group, he jokingly said you made them a “quadricycle.” After Eren asked “What the hell is a quadricycle?” The joke was retired.
You had met a lot of people your freshmen and now sophomore year at Paradis University, some becoming closer than others. For example, you were friendly with Pieck Finger and Bertholdt Hoover, but due to their relationship with Porco, you didn’t get any closer than that. You were close with Historia Reiss, and her girlfriend Ymir Fritz. But your best friend would always be Mikasa, and you were hers (second to Eren, of course.) You had also become familiar with Jean Kirstein ( star soccer player) and his two fools of friends Sasha Braus and Connie Springer. You hadn’t hung out too many times, but they were always the life of the party.
Overall, you would say you were well-acquainted and accustomed to life at Paradis. But for some reason, you could not explain why Porco Galliard wouldn’t like you. You were sure you were kind to him the first time you met, and you couldn’t pinpoint an exact moment where you wronged him. So if you were able to form so many friendships, how was he the only one you couldn’t befriend? It was insane. You weren’t exactly begging for his approval… but his dislike for you was offensive. You didn’t like to argue, yet it was inevitable whenever you two tried to have a normal conversation. No matter how hard you tried to figure him out, he always found a way to puzzle you.
You shook your head. Why was he on your mind, of all things? You had a job to do, and your silly psychological analysis of the idiot made you slow your pace. You quickened your steps. Porco could insult you, and make passive aggressive gestures, but he would not be responsible for your tardiness.

Chapter Text

𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗢𝗨𝗡𝗗 𝗢𝗙 𝗟𝗔𝗨𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗘𝗥, which usually does not bother you, was enough to make you grind your teeth today. You were in your History class, and instructed to quietly work on your assignment while the Professor graded work from his other classes. You yourself were talkative, but you had nothing on these girls, who from the moment the Professor announced he would give extra credit so long as your class remained quietly working the entire time, had not shut up. They were not only talking incessantly, they were doing it at a volume you were pretty sure anyone outside the class could hear as well. You were the unfortunate victim of having to listen to bits and pieces of their conversation due to your seat’s proximity, none of which was of use to you, and you were beginning to sense your professor would revoke the extra credit he offered, since he kept shooting annoyed glances at them.
The perpetrators in question were Hitch Dreyse, Hanna Diament and Mina Carolina. Nice girls, but listening to them absolutely rip into anyone they deemed “weird’ was enough to ensure Y/N would never get close to them. They “whispered” about rumors they heard from Hanna’s boyfriend, who was a football player, and Mina’s own friendships.
You sighed. Mina was currently detailing what she thought was a secretive hookup she had over the weekend, yet a little too detailed. A boy next to you huffed in exasperation, collecting his things and walking out the door. Apparently, you weren’t the only one who could hear a bit too well. Oblivious, Mina continued.
I’m not that well off to be able to ditch this class, You noted defeatedly. If you were, you would have been long gone before the professor even finished speaking. You were stuck; forced to endure endless talk of gossip.
“And her hair, God. It’s like a nest.” You heard Hanna giggle. Self conscious, you placed a hand on your hair, who’s naturally curly texture you were not able to tame today. You wondered who they were talking about, and silently hoped it wasn’t you. The one day you didn’t wake up in time to straighten it. But you were used to the back handed comments about your hair by now, choosing to avoid them all together by adding heat to it everyday.
“Yeah, that’s him.” You heard Hitch say. The trio was bent over Hitch’s phone, heads bent together.
Like a Hydra. Or Cerberus, You mentally joked.
“Isn’t he cute?”
Mina and Hanna made approving noises. “So cute. I wonder if he’s single.” Hanna commented.
“Does it matter?” Mina cackled.
They laughed, bumping their heads back together to continue ogling whoever Hitch had a crush on.
“God, he’s so fine. I just want him in my panties.” Hitch practically moaned.
“Ladies.” Your professor suddenly spoke. He cleared his throat awkwardly.
“Sorry, Mr. Hannes.” Hitch blushed, sheepishly shooting him a charming smile.
Mr. Hannes nodded, returning to his computer. The blush on his face was prominent, and it was obvious the man had been made uncomfortable.
Hitch turned back to face her friends, silently laughing. The girls quietly giggled behind their hands, and quickly returned to their previous conversation.
“It’s too bad he’s like, clueless. I’ve been sending him hints for days now.” Hitch sighed.
Hanna smirked. “Have you tried sending him something else?” Her tone was suggestive, making Mina squeal and Hitch to gasp.
“Not yet! At least let him take me out to dinner first.” Hitch chortled, inspecting her nails. “I’m actually starting to think I’ll have to ask him. What should I say? ‘’Sup, Porco, how does 5 pm sound?’ Like, please. Let’s be real here. No guy wants someone who throws themselves at him.”
You froze, your pen hovering over your paper. Porco? The guy they were talking about was Porco?
You don’t know why you were surprised. It was no secret he attracted all sorts of attention, and since he seemed to be nice to everyone but you, he was sure to have some kind of fanbase. Or so you thought. You had never heard someone drool over him so outwardly. At most, you saw girls blush and giggle a little too much at things that weren’t funny around him. Not that you observed him much. He just happened to be in the area around you.
Well, you didn’t doubt Hitch would be successful in her conquest. You weren’t exactly sure of Porco’s track record, but a girl like Hitch usually got what she wanted. She had already gone through two notorious football players, Marlow and some other guy you didn’t care to know the name of. But apparently she was switching over to soccer players. You made a note to notify Jean, as he thought she was one of the hottest girls to exist. Maybe he’d have a shot, if Hitch ever came to her senses and realized Porco’s true colors.
An odd feeling of pressure grew in your chest. You suddenly felt yourself breathing more heavily, and your eyes kept flickering over to the girls, who had moved on.
You lowered the volume of your music (yes, they had been speaking so loud that you could hear them over your music) to see if you could hear anything else, but they didn’t mention it again. But just as you were about to leave the class, putting your supplies into your bag, you heard Hitch say it again.
“Yeah, I think I’m going to just show up at his game. Should I paint Porco on my cheek or on my leg? I can wear those shorts that make my ass look good.”
The sentence made you release a harsh laugh that you hadn’t realized you had been holding. The sound was sharp, and it startled you. Realizing your mistake, your eyes shot to Hitch, who had heard your laugh and was staring at you. Hanna and Mina noticed her falter and turned to you as well.
You panicked. Not only were you eavesdropping, but you were caught laughing at them. You weren’t an entirely socially negligent outcast to not understand the rules of girl gossip, which is why you stumbled to find a valid excuse as to why you were laughing. It was worse to be caught teasing than to be caught listening.
You pointed to your headphones, a quivering smile appearing on your face. “Podcast.” You hoped your chuckle was enough to mask your nervous tone.
Hitch’s mouth formed into an “O” shape. She smiled at you, then turned to pick up her purse. Mina and Hanna followed, seemingly buying your shitty excuse. You exhaled, thankful they decided not to verbally abuse you about laughing at Hitch’s shorts right then.
You quickly exited the class and began to walk your way to your dorm, attempting to put as much distance between you and the classroom as possible. You couldn’t help but mentally replay the scene from class over and over, though. Apparently, Hitch really wanted Porco. Or more specifically, Porco in her panties. The thought made you want to vomit, and you kicked a rock in your path to release the humiliation and rage beginning to form in your chest. You cursed at the thought of Porco. If it weren’t for his unlikable personality, you wouldn’t have found the act of someone having a crush on him so funny.
- “I heard the weirdest thing.” You told Mikasa and Historia. You were in the cafeteria’s coffee shop, buying an iced coffee.
“Really? No whipped cream on mine, please.” Historia told the barista.
“Yes, it was so weird!” You insisted.
“Well, what is it?” Mikasa prodded. She was placing a cardboard sleeve on her coffee cup, since she didn’t like how the wet condensation would coat her hand.
“Wait, how does my hair look today?” You picked at a stray curl. “I didn’t have time to do anything to it.”
Mikasa glanced at it. Her expression remained unfazed, as usual. But sometimes you forgot that was just her demeanor, and there was no deeper meaning behind it. At first it threw you off, but times like this you wished she was a tad bit more expressive, at least as a tone indicator. “Looks fine.” Mikasa replied simply.
You exhaled. “Are you sure? I’m kind of self conscious about it right now.”
Mikasa nodded. “It’s fine. Though you could maybe use a trim. I’m starting to see the dead ends forming. Or maybe some hair cream. It’s dull.”
“So not fine.” You dropped the curl, deflated. “Wait, dead ends?”
Historia came up behind you. “You should lay off the heat, Y/N. I like your hair like this.”
You blushed. “Thank you. But my hair takes too much time out of the day. It’s easier to just straighten it.”
Historia frowned. “I think you should really embrace your hair. It’s cute and has do much potential-“ Potential? You wondered. “But okay, what’s the weird thing you heard?”
The three of you began to walk towards the residential hall. It was across the street, which was very convenient for you and Mikasa. Historia apparently had a lot of money, so she didn’t need to dorm in the crappy campus dorms. But she liked to visit, especially whenever Ymir was busy.
You laughed, causing Mikasa and Historia to share a confused look. “Bro, you won’t even believe it. So you know Hitch Dreyse? She was- shit!” The crosswalk had turned red in the middle of your crossing, which meant you had to run to the sidewalk before getting run over, all without spilling your coffee.
You reached the glass door of the residential hall. Mikasa opened it for Historia and you to enter, the cool air a treat in contrast to the uncharacteristically hot evening Trost was experiencing. Historia pressed the button to the elevator, which led to your and Mikasa’s room.
“Anyways, so her and these two girls were actually drooling over Porco. Porco!” Y/N scoffed. “Like seriously. Hitch could get anyone she wants and she likes Porco? And they were calling him cute and shit. Like are you blind?”
Mikasa and Historia remained silent.
“What? You guys agree?” You asked, incredulous.
“Are you blind?” Historia giggled. “Even if he’s a jerk to you, you have to admit- he’s cute.”
You were genuinely disgusted. “Are you kidding? Please tell me you’re kidding.”
The elevator dinged, signalling that it was ready. You stepped inside, continuing the conversation after clicking your floor’s number.
“I disagree. He’s just not my type.” Mikasa commented.
“Well, yeah, anybody who’s not green eyed and particularly tall isn’t your type.” Historia remarked pointedly, giving Mikasa a sly look. Historia had a theory Mikasa liked Eren, but Mikasa swore up and down it was platonic. Mikasa turned red, furrowing her brow.
“No, I just don’t like blondes.” Mikasa muttered.
“Jean will be devastated to hear that.” You teased. Jean was in love with Mikasa, but seemed to get nowhere with his crush. (Probably because Mikasa liked Eren.)
“As I was saying, Porco’s so… overrated! I just don’t get why Hitch would like him.” You continued in your rant against Porco.
“But Y/N,” Historia inquired. “It’s just Porco. Why does it matter?”
You rolled your eyes. “It… I’m not saying it matters. I just wonder why he’s deemed an acceptable crush.”
“Why do you care?” Mikasa questioned. Her tone was curious, yet it made your skin burn red.
“I don’t! It’s literally none of my business.” You scoffed. “Have you seen how he walks? Or how he flexes on Instagram?” Attempting to divert the uncomfortable attention, you mimicked Porco’s poses, which made Historia laugh heartily and Mikasa chuckle. You were enjoying it, shifting into a side shift pose, iced coffee firm in your hand when suddenly, the elevator dinged, and the door opened. You grunted, not quite done putting on a show, and twisted to make a U shape with your arms, flexing the very little muscle you owned and holding your coffee up.
Historia was heaving, having laughed so hard her sides ached. Mikasa was smiling, a sight only a select few of her friends got to witness. But you heard an “ahem”, and then Historia bolted upright, eyes wide and Mikasa’s smile melted into a frown.
You turned, curious as to who it was, and saw it was Porco. Great. You rolled your eyes, attempting to turn back around to face your friends, when you felt your ankle give out, tripping on the elevator’s thick carpet and straight into… Porco.
Or more accurately, Porco’s torso. He was taller than you, and had a wide chest. You heard the heartbreaking crush of your cup, and witnessed the liquid spill all over you and his white shirt, the ice dramatically clanking to the floor. Your eyes were shut tightly and your arms had shot out in an attempt to break your fall, but you never touched the ground.
You opened your eyes, and a pair of wide, hazel ones met yours. You blinked and looked down, expecting to see your ankle, twisted, and your jeans ruined. But instead, you saw a pair of muscly arms holding you up, and only your shirt wet. Your ankle was intact, despite it being stuck on the carpet behind you still. You looked up again, and it finally registered who had saved you from hard contact with the floor… and who was still holding you.
“Let.. let me go!” You attempted to stand, stumbling slightly, Aggravated, Porco steadied you.
“Careful, you klutz. Was falling once not enough for you?” He scolded.
You pushed his arms off, and shook your arms to rid them of the liquid dripping down them. Porco yelped, grabbing your wrist.
“Don’t do that, you fool! You’re dripping coffee everywhere.” He curled his lip, looking down at his stained shirt and the mess on the floor. “Look what you did.”
You frowned. “What I did? You’re the one who came up behind me! What kind of creep-”
“I was waiting for the elevator!” Porco exclaimed. “Why would I-”
“My coffee.” You whined, staring at the remnants on the carpet. The ice hadn’t even begun to dissolve yet.
Porco scoffed. “Your coffee? That’s what you’re concerned about? You ruined my shirt! And my pants!” He motioned to his now wet outfit.
“Oh, relax. It’ll come out. And your youth pastor drip will be fixed.” You sighed, bending down to pick up the cup. In a quieter voice, you begrudgingly added, “But I am sorry about that.”
Noticing your softer tone, Porco bent down on a knee to help you. “Just… don’t worry about it.” he passed you the straw, which was bent out of shape, having been squashed between you two.
You looked at him, and a stray curl fell over your face. Exhaling in frustration, you brushed it aside aggressively, accepting the straw in Porco’s outstretched hand.
Porco was giving you a strange look. “What?” You questioned defensively.
He shook his head, standing up. He brushed his khaki colored cargos off, offering you his hand. You pointedly ignored it, standing up and turning to face your awestruck friends.
“Well, that’s it for my coffee.” You told them. They shook their head, exiting the elevator to stand by you.
“Hey, Porco.” Historia greeted. He nodded at her. “Um, if you’re not done here, we’ll be in the room.” she whispered to you.
“Oh, we’re done here.” You adjusted your bag on your shoulder, stepping to the side and motioning for Porco to get in the elevator. You threw the broken cup in the trash, and dug around your bag for a napkin. Locating one, you wiped off the sticky liquid off your arms.
“So you’re just going to ruin my clothes and walk off without an apology?” Porco suddenly said.
You swiveled around, disgust evident on your face. “I literally apologized, do you want cleaning tips or something?”
Porco rolled his eyes, crossing his arms. You noticed the ripples in his muscles when he did. You couldn’t help but notice how the wet t-shirt clung to his defined chest and abdominal muscles. “No, but some groveling would be nice.”
You raised your eyebrows at him, your hands subconsciously making their way to your hips the way they did when you were mad. “I know you’re not being serious.”
Historia shot Mikasa a look, and they silently made their way to the room. They knew by now that whenever you and Porco got into it, it took a while to end. They figured you would meet them later, with a new complaint about Porco to add.
Porco shook his head. “Nope. You bumped into me.”
“I tripped!” You exclaimed. “I wouldn’t waste expensive coffee on you, for fuck’s sake.”
“Expensive?” Porco chuckled. “Oh, yeah? How much are we talking? Three dollars? Four?”
You glared at him. Your hands dropped from your hips, balling into fists at your sides. “Try six.”
Porco’s eyes widened, and he uncrossed his arms. “Six fucking dollars? For coffee?” He sputtered.
You nodded, grinding your teeth. “Make that six-fifty.”
Porco shook his head in disbelief. “Nuh-uh, there’s no way.”
You nodded vigorously. “Why would I lie? It was six fifty.”
“No way, bro, you pay that much-”
“Yes, you jerk, because it’s fucking good-”
“It’s literally coffee, why would you-”
“It’s the university coffee shop, everything is overpriced!”
“You’re telling me.” He grunted.
“You ruined my coffee.” You pointed.
Porco sneered at you. “I actually saved you from breaking your ass.”
“Yeah, well much good that did me.” You crossed your arms.
“Fine, if it’ll get you to stop bitching let’s go then.” Porco grumbled.
Your expression changed into a confused one. “Huh? Right now?”
Porco nodded slowly. “Um,yeah.” His tone was evidently exasperated.
“Al-alright.” You planted your feet and brought your hands up to block your face, preparing to throw a punch.
“Woah, what? Y/N, what the fuck are you doing?” Porco was incredulous, his own expression bordering on humorous. “Are you trying to fight me?”
“I’m…” You looked at him, and realized he wasn’t in an offensive pose at all. Feeling like an idiot, you lowered your fists. “You said ‘let’s go’.” You explained weakly.
Porco stared at you for a second, his expression unreadable, before exploding into laughter. The sound was foreign to you, and you didn’t know how to react besides awkwardly standing with your hands to your side. But soon, the sound of Porco’s laughter, which was an odd sound on its own, was becoming contagious, and you couldn’t help but crack a smile.
“Bro, I’m- Oh, God.” Porco was out of breath, a hand pressed to his forehead. “Yeah, that really made me laugh.”
You frowned. “Yeah, glad that was funny for you.”
“Oh, it was. It so was. I’m for sure getting you a coffee now. C’mon.” he waved his hand for you to join him in the elevator.
“Don’t you have somewhere to be?” You chided.
“Nah.” It was a lie. He actually had plans with Reiner and Bertholdt. “Let’s just get your dumb drink.”
You leaned against the elevator railing, staring at your warped reflection in the elevator’s stainless steel doors. Even though you were both silent, the short ride to the bottom floor was comfortable.
Hisu: where are u?
You quickly typed out a reply.
going to the cafeteria to get more coffee.
A second later, your phone beeped again.
Hisu: with porco?
You hesitated. Your thumbs hovered over your keyboard, pondering what to reply.
yes 😐 he’s paying.
The elevator dinged, signaling you had arrived. You pocketed your phone, wordlessly following behind Porco’s large back to the coffee shop. You crossed the street in sync, Porco acting as a traffic guard, not letting you jaywalk.
“So which one is it?” Porco turned to you once you had arrived at the shop.
“Iced macchiato.” You replied. “With whipped cream.”
He nodded once before turning to face the barista. “Umm.. one iced mackey-mack…” He froze.
“Iced mocha?” The barista prodded.
“Um…” Porco turned to you. “Are you gonna help me out here?”
You smirked. Watching him blunder helplessly over your order was entertaining. “C’mon, you can’t pronounce macchiato?”
He glared at you. “I’m this close to not getting you shit.”
Your smirk disappeared. “Fine. A small iced macchiato with whipped cream, please.” You told the barista.
“The whipped cream will be extra, is that okay?”
You looked at Porco.
“Fine.” He grumbled.
“Yes, that’s fine.” You replied pleasantly. “And can you add 5 pumps of vanilla syrup?” You watched Porco’s reaction from your peripheral vision.
“Yep. That’ll also be extra.”
“That’s perfectly okay. And how much would mocha sauce be?”
“About seventy five cents more, ma’am.”
You grinned. “Perfect. And what about-“
“I think you’ve had enough.” Porco interrupted. “That’ll be all, please.”
The barista nodded. “Seven dollars and seventy five cents will be your total today, ma’am- uh, sir.” He looked from you to Porco, unsure of who to charge.
“God damn.” Porco cursed under his breath. “That’s the small?”
“Shouldn’t have spilled my drink.” You muttered.
Sighing, Porco forked over $8. The barista moved to hand him a quarter, until Porco stopped him. “Just keep the damn quarter.”
After receiving your overpriced drink, you happily sipped on it as you made your way back to the hall. Porco picked up his pace, as you were walking faster than him and had left him behind.
“Thanks, by the way.” You said dryly, looking straight ahead. “I haven’t fully loaded my drink in months.”
You heard Porco’s snort beside you. “Yeah, I see why.”
You crossed the street yet again, completely disregarding Porco’s instructions and just crossing when no cars passed by. “Leave your clothes at my door.” You muttered, still not facing him. If you did, you feared you would lose your courage.
“Huh?” Porco was distracted by your shoes, which were beginning to rip at the heel. Red converse, an interesting choice. He thought to himself.
“I said, leave your clothes at my door. After you change. I’ll get the stains out.” You repeated.
“Oh. Okay.” Porco agreed. He was slightly taken aback by your sudden act of service. “Thank you.” You simply mhmmm-ed.
“Like I said, your youth pastor drip will be back in no time.” You couldn’t resist a quick zing before entering the elevator and closing the door before he could get in. Porco exhaled through his nose. He wasn’t about to admit he found you funny sometimes.
-
The next day, Porco found his clothes neatly folded in a plastic bag by his door. They were good as new, no stain in sight, sure as you had promised. Smiling to himself, he noticed they even had a distinct smell. They smelled like… you. You must have used the same detergent you used. He didn’t know how he knew your scent, but he had to admit it was good.
He appreciatively dug his nose into the fabric, which for some reason was also softer. He swore girls just knew how to make things prettier and softer.
He entered his room, putting away his freshly washed clothes. When he unfolded his khakis, he realized you had tucked a sample packet of detergent in them with a sticky note attached.
Try this next time.
-Y/N
He smiled again. For some reason the sight of your name and your handwriting caused a tingly feeling in his stomach. Then he stopped himself. What was wrong with him? It was just obligatory detergent and a cordial note. Nothing more.
But even as he continued with his day, his mind kept wandering back to you, and how your day was going. He kept scolding himself. It was none of his business how your day was going.

Chapter Text

𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗬𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗪𝗔𝗦 𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗘, 𝗨𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗟 you heard a knock at your door. You quizzically shared a look with your ginger cat, who was perched on your lap as you scrolled through your computer, procrastinating on your essay. There was another knock, this time more insistent and harsher. You instinctively reached for your phone on the counter, eyeing the door.

You were alone, besides your cat, Goose, who was not a good guard animal. (He liked to play with rodents instead of getting rid of them- which was literally his job.) You were also not expecting anyone, besides Mikasa, whom was not due home for an hour or so. So that could only mean one thing: the RA had discovered your contraband cat, your parents were popping in for a visit, or you were about to become the victim of some obscure serial killer. You went with the last option, placing Goose on the ground gently and tip-toeing to the kitchen, where you hid a taser. The knocking had escalated more, now an erratic rhythm that you were sure would get you a noise complaint.

You carefully edged towards the door, taser in your right hand and phone in your left, ready to ward off any intruders. You peered up at the peephole, but just as you were about to look through it and identify the disturber of peace, the person on the other side spoke up and ceased their knocking.

“Mikasa! It’s Porco.”

You gasped. What the hell was he doing here? At your dorm room? You put the taser down on the counter, and returned to open the door to let Porco in. Something you never thought you’d do.

Goose suddenly rubbed his way in between your legs, purring loudly. “Goose, move!” You gently shoved him, since he was in the way of the door. You unlocked it, swinging it open.

“Hey-” Porco’s smile dissipated when he saw you. He even lowered his hand, which was raised in a wave. He frowned. “You’re not Mikasa.”

He was shiny, a thick layer of gleam on his forehead. You assumed it was sweat, since he was in his soccer uniform, and somewhat muddy as well. His backpack was over his shoulder in that annoying way it usually was, so you assumed he was fresh out of a soccer game.

You rolled your eyes. “Yeah, unfortunately for you. What do you want?”

Goose returned, rubbing your leg again. Porco glanced down at the animal who had arrived seemingly from nowhere.

“That cat is huge.” He remarked.

You huffed, reaching down to shove Goose back and away from Porco. He was not even a minute into conversation with you and already insulting your cat. “He is perfectly healthy for his size.” You grumbled. You tended to be a bit defensive whenever someone commented on Goose’s weight. The vet said he was fine, and you liked your pets on the chunkier side.

“I didn’t even know cats were allowed.” Porco raised an eyebrow.

You glared at him. “Well, they are.” They were not.

Porco shook his head. “I just need to see Mikasa. Eren and I have a project to do and he said he accidentally left a really vital part of it here. So if you could be a decent human and get Mikasa for me-”

You held a hand up, cutting off his rant. “Sorry, bud. Mikasa’s not here. She won’t be here for a while, either. So come back later.” You grabbed the door. “Or never.” You added under your breath.
Porco stopped the door as you began to shut it with his foot. “I heard that. And trust me, the sooner I’m out of here, the better. I just need that piece.”

You sighed. “I don’t know anything about your project. All of Mikasa’s stuff is in her room. Goodbye now.”

Porco once again stopped the door, this time with his hand. “You can’t just go in there and grab it?”

Your eye twitched. If there was one thing you hated more than being late, it was pushy, stubborn people. And Porco was insistent. “Do you have no sense of boundaries? No moral compass?”

Porco scoffed. “It’s hardly a moral issue.”

You felt your blood pressure rising, and took a step back. “I don’t know how you do things with your roommate, Galliard, but we have respect for each other’s stuff. And that includes not LOOKING THROUGH THEIR THINGS. You barbarian.”

Porco rolled his eyes. “Geez, it was just a suggestion. Can’t I just wait for her inside then?” You mimicked him in a high pitched voice, which in turn caused Porco to mimic you.

“Real mature.” Someone down the hall called out to you two.

Embarrassed, you both quit. “Whatever, just come back later. Or text Eren.” You swung the door in his face. Shaking your head, you walked back to your seat, when you heard a knock. Frowning, you swung the door back open.

“What?”

Porco smirked at you, holding Goose. “Forget something?” His tone was smug.

You snatched Goose away. “Traitor.” You snapped at Goose.

“Are you gonna let me in now?” Porco leaned against the wall. “Or is that too barbaric of me to ask?”

You frowned. Goose was purring, rubbing his head on your arm. You scratched the scruff of his neck, causing him to mewl in delight. “Fine. You can wait for Mikasa here.” You conceded.
“Bet, thanks.” You ignored him, turning around and entering the dorm room.

“Don’t expect a tour, and take your stinky shoes off. And don’t ask me for crap, there’s nothing in the fridge. Oh, and I’m busy, so keep your brainless comments to yourself.” You sat down on the counter, having made the rules clear to him.

Porco chuckled. “Amazing hospitality. What’s your major again? I think a career at Disneyland would really suit you.”

You flicked him off behind your back. You heard the sinking of the couch, and Porco grunting.

You narrowed your eyes at him. “You didn’t even ask if you could sit on the couch.”

He was lounging on the couch, cleats gone and exposing his large, socked feet to the world. His arms were spread out on the top of the couch, and he was using one hand to scroll through his phone. His ratty backpack was on the floor besides him, crumpled. He gave you a look.

“Where do you suppose I should sit, then?”

You glanced at the floor, then back at him. He guffawed.

“Yeah, no. Go to hell.”

You took a deep breath. There was no point in arguing, Mikasa would be back in half an hour or so and then he’d be gone. You had school work to resume, and Porco was not enough of a reason to not finish it. You turned back to your computer.

A few minutes later, you heard Goose’s loud purring. When you spun to see why, you almost exploded from anger. Goose was happily rubbing Porco’s hand, laying against him in an undignified way. Porco noticed your angry look, and laughed.

“What? You mad your cat likes me more than you?” He teased.

You didn’t respond, instead choosing to scold Goose. “Goose, down. Down.”

Twenty minutes later, you were blasting music. Porco had asked you for water (you glared at him the entire time you poured him a glass) and a pencil (you almost threw it at him), having decided to do some homework once he saw you were actively studying. You also became uncomfortable at the fact that you were currently sporting your bunny slippers, a faded, shapeless university t-shirt, ratty pjs and your hair was as messy as ever since wash day was tomorrow. And you were 90% sure your eyes were ringed with bags from pulling consecutive late night cram sessions. You could have gone to your room, but the counter was your designated study space, since it had the best wifi signal for your laptop. Add to the fact that you did not trust Porco in the living room alone.

Mikasa: hey is Porco there?

Y/N: yeah ! thanks for the heads up btw

Mikasa: shit i forgot sorry

Mikasa: tell him i’m on my way please, i’ll probably be there in 30 mins or so

Y/N: 30 minutes?? wya

Mikasa: i was in Stohess for an internship interview

Y/N: holy shit okay

Y/N: i hope it went okay

Mikasa: i hope so too, i’m about to drive so i’ll text u later okay? tell Porco

Y/N: fine drive safe

“Mikasa’s on the way.” You told Porco in a monotone voice.

Porco nodded.

You resumed your music, bobbing your head slightly to the beat. Music wasn’t exactly the best study tool, but when you were particularly stressed, you found it soothing and helped lift your spirits a bit. You were currently listening to 2000’s pop music, something airy and light with a bouncy beat. To you it was a fun, happy song. To Porco, it was overly autotuned generic trash, or-

“This is an assault on my ears.” Porco groaned. “What is this crap?”

You gasped. “Stop.”

Porco shook his head. “God, will you cut it off? Or change the song at least?”

You crossed your arms. “This is my dorm, in case you’ve forgotten.”

He glared at you. “I cannot concentrate.”

You pouted. “Aww, I’m sorry.” You swiveled around to your computer, and began to raise the volume of the music. You raised it to where you couldn’t hear Porco’s growing complaints, until finally you heard him shout.

“Y/N! My God! Do you not know how to be respectful? The sound of silence? Do you even know quiet?” He was standing next to you, eyes wide and his hands gesturing wildly in exasperation.
You stared up at him, at his wide hazel eyes, and his crumpled up paper in his hand, and couldn’t resist laughing. You paused the music, the sound of your laughter soon filling the small dorm.
Porco’s scowl melted away when he saw your amusement. “Wow.” he shook his head. “This is funny to you.”

You nodded. “Very.”

He slumped down on the stool next to you. “What are you even ‘working’ on?” He curled his fingers to emphasize “working.”

You eyed him through your peripheral vision. “It’s none of your business.”

You saw Porco suck his teeth at you. “Whatever.”

You noticed he began to fan himself with his shirt. “You hot?”

“Huh?” Porco’s eyebrows furrowed. “Did you just call me hot?”

Your head snapped to him. That was not what you meant at all. “God, no! That- I didn’t mean it like that! I meant, are you hot?”

“Nah, nah, I’m pretty sure I heard ‘you’re hot’.” Porco was smirking, which made you want to crawl into a ball and die at the thought of inflating his ego more.

“Well, you heard wrong, dumbass.” You focused on actively scrolling through your homework assignments, pointedly not making eye contact with him. But if your cheeks burning red wasn’t obvious, Porco could be able to tell you were flustered.

“Yeah, sure.” He suddenly lifted his shirt to wipe his forehead, and you almost fell off your stool. Why was he doing that? In your dorm? With no warning? He was so, so, gross!

“Why are you all sweaty?” You mumbled.

Porco rolled his eyes. “Why do you think?”

You shrugged. Your essay was almost done, save for a few citations. “I don’t know, a game?”

“Soccer practice.” Porco corrected. “It was draining.”

You scoffed. “What? You didn’t score any touchdowns?”

Porco’s eyes widened in surprise. “Y/N, touchdowns? What the fuck?”

His tone caught you off guard, and when you looked at him you saw he was incredulous. “What?” You asked, oblivious as to what offended him.

“Did you not just fucking hear what you asked?” Porco was in disbelief. Were you that ignorant about sports?

The look you gave him proved that you in fact did not know anything about sports. “Oh my-Okay, wow.” He exhaled. “That is so annoying.”

Your frown deepened. “How? Because I don’t watch boring ass sports?”

“Yeah, exactly.” Porco snapped. “That’s literally the most basic knowledge, how do you-”

“I have better things to do,” You cut him off. “Then watch a lame sport aimed at meatheads like you.”

Porco chuckled. “Yeah, like what? Hang out with Goose?”

You exclaimed in frustration. “Where the hell is Mikasa?”

As if on cue, your phone dinged, indicating you received a message from Mikasa.

Mikasa: i have bad news

Mikasa: my car broke down somewhere near Sina :/ idk what time i’ll get back

y/n: oh my god are you okay???

Mikasa: i’m fine, i just ran out of gas on a dirt road and made it to someone’s driveway. The owner of the house isn’t home and i checked my gps. Nearest gas station is 10 miles.
Mikasa: i might pull a you and start walking

y/n: omg , no stay put. I’ll find a way to you. Conserve your battery

Mikasa: but how? I don’t want you taking a bus all the way here
Mikasa: i can call triple A

y/n: no, they’ll take too long and it’ll get dark soon. It’s safer for me to go to you
y/n: and that’s an extra expense

Mikasa: but how will you get to me?

y/n:… i may know someone

Mikasa: who??

y/n:… porco.

Mikasa: porco?? He’s still there?

y/n: yeah -_- we’re still waiting for you

Mikasa: oh. But do you want to drive all the way to sina with him?

y/n: no, but for you i will

Mikasa: okay thank you, lmk what he says

y/n: okay stay put

“You good?” Porco questioned. He noticed your pensive expression, and how frantically you were typing away on your phone.

You sighed. “Um.. weird question, but… do you think you could drive me to Sina to pick up Mikasa?”

Porco blinked. “Sina? What’s she doing there?”

You explained. “So if we could pick up a few gallons of gas I’d appreciate it.”

Porco whistled. “Damn. So you don’t drive?”

You shook your head.

“Why?”

You tsked. “That’s not important. So can you or not?” You were beginning to lose your patience. Could he not do a simple favor? “I’ll pay you if that’s what you’re concerned about.”

Porco shook his head. “Nah, I’ll take you. But I will say, you’re lucky it’s Mikasa.”

You narrowed your eyes at his idiotic comment. Did he really feel that was necessary to add? “Lucky me.”

Porco stood from the stool. “Well, c’mon. Mikasa won’t save herself.”

-
“What do you think you’re doing?” Porco placed a hand on your arm. You were attempting to exit his car, when he stopped you.

“Getting gas?” You replied, glaring at him then his outstretched arm.

“Girls aren’t supposed to get their own gas, especially at night, you weirdo.” He rolled his eyes and unbuckled his seatbelt. “I’ll get it.”

You huffed. “What are you talking about? I can get the gas, and I’m paying.” You opened the door, but Porco reached over and shut it.

“Not gonna happen. You can come with me, but you’re not as smart as you seem if you think it’s safe to go somewhere alone in Ragako.”

Your scowl faltered. He had somewhat of a point. You had never gotten gas before, but you scolded yourself for being so naïve. You were in one of the more dangerous cities of Rose county, where robberies and violent incidents were common. You shuddered at the thought of being caught alone in the city, and for a brief second silently thanked the Universe for Porco being there. Then you remembered it was Porco and the thought was gone.

“Wait, did you just call me smart?”

“No.” Porco replied shortly. His blush said otherwise, although you didn’t notice. As you both got out of the car and walked towards the gas station, you risked a glance at him.

HIs strong nose and jawline were prominent from his side, and you noticed his hair looked somewhat more clean cut, like he had gotten a trim. His eyelashes were unfairly long, and the way his lips were set in his signature pout almost made you chuckle. He opened the door and stepped aside to let you in, his face still serious.

He looks cute when he’s determined, You thought.

You froze in your steps. What was that?

Porco paused, looking back at you. “You trying to make a run for it or something?”

You looked at him, eyes widened. His expression converted into one of concern, “You okay?”

You didn’t reply, just processing the… vile thought you just had. You shook your head, coming back to reality. “Pft, I’m fine. You just walk slow.” You mumbled, brushing past him and into the store. You heard him sigh behind you, and resisted the urge to turn around.

Once inside, you located a clerk and requested a few gallons. But when you set the gallons on the counter and told Porco you’d be right back, wanting to grab some snacks, he had already paid for the gas. You were livid, staring daggers at him as you placed your chips and gummy bears on the counter. The clerk’s eyes flitted from you to Porco, somewhat amused at the interaction.

“That’ll be five ninety two.” The cashier announced. “Will the lady be paying or her lover?”

You and Porco shared a look in disbelief, and you nearly choked on your saliva. “We’re-we’re not together.” You clarified, your finger pointing to Porco and back at you.

“Yeah, not at all.” Porco added, his tone of voice causing you to turn to him and shoot him a mean look. As if he was disgusted to even be under the assumption he was dating you.

“Oh, my bad, I apologize.” The cashier laughed. He was young, and had an accent that you couldn’t quite place. His name tag read Floch, and his voice held a sort of twang that grated your ears, in contrast to Porco’s deep voice-

You cut yourself off. What was with the Porco admiration? God. Your mind was seriously betraying you today.

“So if you aren’t taken by the mister here, I don’t suppose you’d mind me asking for your insta?” The boy asked as he bagged your small items.

“Huh?” You blurted. Was this dude seriously hitting on you? In your ratty pajamas and in your worst state of appearance?

Porco shot a glance at you, then back at Floch. He grinned.

“All good with me. What do you say, Y/N? You gonna let him have your insta?” Porco mocked. You hoped the look in your eyes would be enough for him to understand you were not trying to give this cashier your information.

“I, uh, I’m..” You stumbled for a response. “I-I don’t have insta.” You ended up saying. Porco snorted, and Floch raised an eyebrow.

“No?” He repeated.

You shook your head, and offered him a sheepish smile. “Sorry…”

You reached for your bag of chips, and he simply handed you your receipt without a word.
You quickly left the store, Porco trailing behind you. You heard him attempting to contain his laughter.
Once you reached the car, you slammed the door shut and aggressively put your seatbelt on.

“I didn’t know you deleted your insta.” Porco taunted once he got in.

“Shut up. He was a creep.” You grumbled.

“See why you shouldn’t go to Ragako alone?” Porco reprimanded.

“Uh, you were no help at all!” You exclaimed. Porco was in a full fit of laughter by now, and the sight of you with your arms crossed and a deep scowl on your face was more fuel for his loud, obnoxious guffaws.

“C’mon, why didn’t you give him a chance? You don’t like redheads?” He continued.

You rolled your eyes. “Why didn’t you give him a chance? You were practically drooling over him.” Porco’s smile melted.

“Nuh-uh.”

“Yeah, don’t you like redheads?” You poked his arm. He had begun driving to the location Mikasa sent him, and was balancing his phone on his palm and the other on the steering wheel. He claimed phone holders were a hazard, yet he was not opposed to holding his device in his hand?

Porco grunted. “I don’t have a type. I just like what I like.”

“How charming.” You scoffed. “You want a prize for that?”

Poco shrugged. “Nah, but a (your hair color) chick wouldn’t be bad.”

You looked at him. Was he… insinuating something?

No, there was no way. Your hair color was pretty common anyways. Choosing to bypass that, you changed the subject. “Whatever. Can I play some music?’

Porco side eyed you as he handed you the aux cord. “None of that pop trash.”

“It’s not trash.” You replied in a small voice.

You scrolled through your playlist, settling on “8teen” by Khalid.

You bobbed your head to the music, contently staring out the window as the sun began to set and darkness settled over the road. You loved this song, and you liked car rides almost as much as long walks.

“This one’s not too bad.” Porco admitted.

You grinned. “I love this part! Because I’m eighteennn, and I still live with my parents, yeah,” You sang along, albeit not too well. Porco glanced at you and shook his head.

“You’re not eighteen, or even live with your parents.” He argued. You made a “shut it” motion with your hand, and continued singing.

“C’mon, you can’t deny it’s good.” You continued your odd dance moves.

Porco begrudgingly nodded his head to the song. When the chorus came again, you heard him mumbling the lyrics. You shrieked in victory, which startled him and caused him to make the car swerve. You shouted, and the harsh motion of the car flung you to the edge of your seat.

After Porco had regained control of the car, he huffed. “That’s why you don’t get aux.”

-

15 minutes later, you located Mikasa’s car on the driveway, with her door open. She was leaning back in her seat, absentmindedly scrolling through her phone.

Porco beeped at her, scaring her. Once she realized it was you, she ran over to your window.

“Hey.” She greeted. “Thanks, guys. I would’ve been stuck here for a few more hours.”

You waved your hand. “It’s my duty to save you.” Mikasa chuckled in response.

You unbuckled your seatbelt and got out of the car, Porco following to help you get the gallons out. You then helped Porco fill her tank, and Mikasa thanked him.

“Alright, you sure you’ll be fine?” He asked again. He was in his car, about to head presumably home.

“I think so.” Mikasa confirmed. “But are you sure you don’t want your project thing?”

Porco shook his head. “I need to go home and shower. Eren can get it.” Mikasa nodded.

“Alright, see you, Porco. Thank you!” She waved.

He waved his hand. “No worries. Bye, Mikasa. Bye, Y/N.” He called, noticing you were leaning against the car and not paying him any attention, mindlessly scrolling through social media.

“Thanks. Bye.” You waved at him, not looking up. You had already been nice to him enough times for a day.

Once Porco drove off, and you were both securely in Mikasa’s car, engine running, Mikasa spoke.

“Sooo… how was that?”

“Oh, God.” You covered your face with your hands. “He’s insufferable. But…”

“But?” Mikasa repeated, surprised.

You sighed. “I actually tolerated him for a bit. Only a little though.”

Mikasa laughed, turning to exit the driveway. “Alright, although, it did look like you guys hit it off.”

You grunted. “Not a chance.” You then turned the volume of the radio up, wanting to end the conversation and drown out your own thoughts.

As Mikasa drove home, you thought about Porco. It was a nice favor he did, you’d give him that. But why was he always so… unapproachable at times?

Once again, you found yourself unable to figure Porco Galliard out.

Chapter Text

𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗡 𝗬𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗘𝗬𝗘𝗦 𝗖𝗔𝗨𝗚𝗛𝗧 𝗦𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧 𝗢𝗙 𝗜𝗧, you knew you had to have it.

The “it” in question was a mini cooper vehicle, in the parking lot of Garrison’s, your job. There was a red “for sale” sign on it, and the price was decent, about ⅔ of your savings so far. You approached it, and peered into the window to see the interior’s condition. It was a cherry red leather, contrasting its white exterior. You could feel excitement growing in your belly at the thought of owning it. But upon closer inspection, your excitement deflated like a balloon in the hot sun.

The car was a stick shift, which you did not know how to drive. Sighing, you walked past the car of your dreams and into your dead-end job to clock in. Your tasks weren’t too difficult, but time consuming, tedious and often seemed repetitive.

Small, menial, and exhaustive- the way a minimum wage job usually was. You greeted the security guards you were acquainted with, and nodded a hello to your co-worker, lifting the bar that separated the cashiers from the customers to enter the backroom and clock in, all the while disconnecting from your headphones and placing them in your bag. In the back room, you located the time slot and quickly swiped your employee card, with your horrible ID picture you refused to show anyone besides your boss. After the machine lit up green, you headed to the locker room to stash your belongings.

You fumbled with your lock a bit, still not accustomed to the odd combination. You finally got it open, and more or less threw your stuff in haphazardly. You caught sight of your reflection in the large, horizontal mirror in the background. You walked over, closely scrutinizing your appearance. Your hair, as usual, was not cooperative. You huffed in frustration. You didn’t know it had looked that bad all day, which was just great for you. You pinned it up with a large claw clip. You examined your face next, hoping you didn’t spot a pimple or an odd spot.

You were extremely self conscious, but vain at the same time. It was like a form of torture for you, wasting long periods of time looking at yourself in the mirror pinpointing all of your imperfections. Realizing you were going to be late, you quickly brushed two stray strands that had fallen out of your makeshift twist behind your ears and rushed to your spot at the register.

“Hey, Y/N.” Your co-worker, Nanaba, acknowledged you. She was leaning against the counter, inspecting her nails. She was older than you by a few years, but she began work at the same time as you, about a year and a half ago. She was cool, but your relationship had never grown past that.

“Hey,” You replied. “How long have you been here?”

Nanaba shrugged. “Like, an hour. It’s pretty slow.”

You tied the signature apron around your waist, and reached for your name tag in your pocket to pin it on. “Yeah, I don’t think anyone’s rushing to come buy craft supplies on a late Tuesday afternoon.”

Nanaba chuckled. “But somehow, that doesn’t stop the Karens from appearing.”

You shook your head at her comment. “It’s like they spawn in the Rae Dunn aisle.” You whispered. Nanaba cackled. If there was one thing she was always down for, it was shit-talking customers.

Suddenly, you heard your manager’s voice calling to you. “L/N, help Ral pack inventory in the back!” She pointed. You withheld a string of curses. You hated being referred to by your last name, and you hated packing inventory as well. But most of all, you hated your manager’s attitude. Thankfully her shift was almost up, and the “chill” manager would be taking over for her.

Externally, you plastered a false smile on your face, and followed the manager to the back room without protest. It was better to get it over with than cause a disruption in the workplace, as you were in need of a job to survive. But you swore (often to Mikasa and Ymir during a rant session) that if you were a trust fund baby you would have cursed your boss out by now. Nanaba shot you a sympathetic look from the register as she watched you go, internally grateful it wasn’t her that had to go help pack.

-

An hour or so later, your manager had thankfully clocked out. Your co-workers collectively relaxed, the relief evident. Nanaba had gone to wander the store in hopes to find something entertaining, or to gossip with the girls from another department. You were currently sitting on a stool, browsing the store catalog, silently voting “yes” to what you could afford and “hell no” to items way beyond your budget. The store was slow, and you had rung up about three customers the entire time you were there.

Just as you were nearing the end of the catalog, the overhead bell chimed, signalling a customer had entered. You closed the magazine, and got up to greet the customer when you realized it was Jean.

Jean worked across the street at an ice cream parlor, and on his breaks or the end of his shifts he usually came in to visit (when the mean manager was away, of course).

“Is she here?” Jean whispered, referring to your rude supervisor.

You shook your head. “Nah. What’s up?”

Jean leaned over, picking his designated stool up and over the counter. He set it down near you, and propped himself up on one hand. He wasn’t allowed in the cashier area with you, so he sat on the opposite side, usually leaning his head against the column perpendicular to the register. He sighed. “Is college supposed to be this boring? Because I’m bored.”

You rolled your eyes. “You’re at work, obviously that’s not fun.”

He shrugged. “I’m just saying, those pre-teen shows gave me unrealistic expectations.”

You shook your head, pulling out some stickers. “Wanna decorate our nametags?” You suggested.

“Uh, do I?” Jean nodded enthusiastically. He grabbed some smiley face stickers, and removed his name tag.

“I don’t get how you work here.” Jean said after a few minutes of comfortable silence, his eyes roaming over the large store. “Like, geez, for a craft store there’s really no creativity in these displays. I would literally die of boredom.”

“Jean, you work at an ice cream shop with a huge banana split as your mascot. I don’t think that’s any better.”

Jean scoffed. “Says you. Banny is awesome. And at least the store looks lively. So it takes away from the fact that they exploit their underpaid workers.”

You laughed heartily. If there was one thing Jean could do, it was make you laugh. “Banny?” You inquired.

Jean nodded seriously. “Banny the Banana Split. He’s my beacon of hope.”

You chuckled once more. “Pass me the gems, you’re hogging them.”

Jean complied, passing you the tiny container of multi-colored gemstones. You digged around for some pink ones to line your name tag with, all the while maintaining steady conversation with Jean.

“Well, I’m not here for the work environment. They’re the only store within a walking distance that isn’t fast food.” You said to him.

“You could’ve applied with me!” Jean suggested. “We make like, twenty five cents more than the minimum.”

You shook your head. “No amount of money is worth wearing that uniform. And you literally get verbally abused by customers every day.” The ice cream parlor’s uniforms were hideous, bordering on comical and disastrous. They were yellow and red pinstripe overalls that resembled clown costumes, and a cap with a huge banana protruding from it that Jean never wore outside of the job. He claimed it was too obscene, at least to his mind.

Jean grimaced. “Yeah, when you get in the way of hangry people and ice cream it’s not so sweet.”

He grabbed a yellow sun from the bowl of stickers you had pulled out. You were both making a mess, but you didn’t mind. You usually cleaned your workspace before you left. “Hey, maybe I’ll come work with you! Then we can suffer together.”

You shook your head. “No thanks, I’d like to keep my job. I’m so close to getting a car.” You sighed. When you thought about how close you were to your goal, your sense of anticipation grew.

“Aw, man, congrats! Speaking of that, look at this car. I saw it and I thought it’d be a good match.” He pulled out his phone, turning it to you.

It was the mini cooper parked outside, but from various angles. There was a selfie of Jean with it, too. You handed Jean his phone back. “Oh, yeah, I saw it. But I can’t. It’s stick.” You explained.

Jean groaned. “Y/N! You can learn! That’s a good car.”

You sighed. “I barely learned how to drive a regular car, I don’t know how I can learn a stick without a stick.” You pressed down on your tag, attempting to stick all the gems down firmly.

Jean was quiet for a bit, his expression pensive. After a few seconds, he spoke. “I may know someone.”

You raised an eyebrow. “For what?”

“To teach you stick,” Jean flipped his name tag over, admiring his handiwork. “Duh.”

You thought about it for a second. “Who?”

Jean shook his head, holding up a finger. “Ah, ah, not important. Besides, you don’t know them.”

You scowled. “Jean, this better not be some bullshit-”

He waved his hand at you dismissively. “Chill, Y/N, chill. I happen to be good friends with this person, and I know for a fact they have a stickshift. I can ask them to teach you, and I’m sure they’d be happy to help.”

You stared at him. He had suddenly grown very interested in his name tag, inspecting it a little too closely. You sensed he was omitting something, from the way he vaguely described his so-called friend and how he avoided your gaze.

“You lying?”

Jean gasped, mock offended. “No! I am most certainly not. But if you don’t want to learn, that’s fine by me. You can stay carless and broke.” He crossed his arms, turning away from you. You rolled your eyes, huffing in exasperation and pulling his shirt collar to face you.

“Fine, damn it. I don’t know why you’re being so secretive about it, but fine. Give them my number please, and tell them I’m broke, so they don’t charge me that much.” You gave in.

Jean grinned. “I thought you’d say that. I’ll text them later tonight then.”

You nodded. “Thanks.”

Jean hummed in response. “So… now that we’re exchanging favors- do you know if any of your hot friends are available?”

You glared at him.

-

Jean: yo

Porco: what’s up

Jean: so i got a favor to ask

Porco: i’m listening?

Jean: could you maybe uhh

Jean: teach my friend to drive stickshift?

Porco: bruh

Porco: idk i have a lot of stuff to do usually

Jean: c’monnn pock

Porco: wrong name horseface

Jean: my bad PORK***

Porco:  it rhymes with cock bro c’mon 🙄

Jean: c’mon YOU

Jean: pleaseee, she’s smart she’ll learn quick

Jean: and i’ll never ask u for anything again

Porco: i highly doubt that

Porco: but fine. I can make a space

Jean: awesome youre the man

Jean: here’s her number (xxx)-xxx-xxx

Porco: her name?

Jean: huh

Porco: your friend. what’s her name?

Jean: oh i just call her curly fry

Porco: ?? why

Jean: don’t worry about it

Jean: so are u sure u can? I don’t wanna get her hopes up

Porco: i said yes.

Jean: BET thank youuuu bro 🙏🏻

Porco: uh huh

Porco: so

Porco: is she hot

Jean: HUH?

Jean: my friend??

Porco: duh??

Jean: bruh

Jean: that’s a very rude thing to ask.

Porco: well?

Jean: …yeah she is

-

Porco: hey, is this jean’s friend?

y/n: hi! yes. i assume you’re his friend that drives stick?

Porco: yep lmao. so you need lessons?

y/n: oh yeah, i’d really appreciate it if you could! i’m kind of broke rn tho, so if what i can pay you is too little i understand

Porco: nonsense, i’ll do it for free

y/n: oh wow thank you! that’s really sweet

Porco: don’t mention it. so i’m free saturday before noon if you want to have our first lesson then?

y/n: that’s good with me! where do i meet you?

Porco: i assume u go to paradis?

y/n: yep

Porco: great. so are the front steps of the library okay? they have a good parking lot for practice.

y/n: perfect! I’ll see you then :) thank you once again!

Porco: no problem :)

-

You sat on the steps of the school library, awaiting Jean’s mysterious friend to arrive and begin your driving lesson. In your bag you had stored some brownies you made to thank them for agreeing to this odd favor. Not many people would agree to let a random girl drive their car around. In your other hand was a donut you picked up for yourself on the way here.

The wind was blowing softly, not enough to bother you, but chilly enough to make you huddle closer to yourself in an attempt to keep the heat. You were grateful you had decided to wear the cat-ear beanie Historia had crocheted you. It kept your hair from getting too messed up before you met Jean’s friend. You didn’t want to look unpresentable. You knew how important first impressions were (due to a certain insolent soccer player).

A black Honda Civic with red emblems suddenly rounded the corner and pulled up in front of you. You stood, assuming this was who you were meeting. You walked down the concrete steps, a friendly smile on your face to meet your new instructor, and the person in the car lowered the passenger side window. You reached the car, and ducked your head down to see who it was-

And then you dropped your half eaten donut on the gravel, your face frozen in shock.

“You.” You scowled.

Porco smirked. “”Sup, princess. What’s the matter? Don’t like your driving teacher?” His tone oozed sarcasm, making your eye twitch. “And did you just drop your donut? What is it with you and dropping food? Butterfingers.” He grinned, amused at his own joke.

“Yeah, this has gotta be some cruel joke. Not you again.” You spat, turning on your heel to leave.

Porco honked, startling you. You spun back around, a murderous glare aimed at him. “What the hell was that for?”

Porco shrugged. “So, I’m assuming you also had no idea?”

You blinked a few times to process what Porco said. “Huh? You didn’t know it was me?”

Porco shook his head slowly. “Uh, no, you clueless ditz. Do you think I’d be here if I did?”

You frowned. He had a point. Why would Porco agree to do anything for you, for free much less?

“Then what’s your point?” You were pissed. At Jean, at Porco, and at the Universe for not blessing you with rich parents who could just buy you a car. Safe to say, your patience was running thin.

“My point is, why the hell did Jean not tell us we were ‘meeting’ each other?”

“Like I know.” You scoffed. “Bye now.” You turned to leave once more, when Porco honked again.

“Would you not do that?” You exclaimed.

Porco grinned. “It’s funny. So, what do we do now?”

The look on your face made it clear to Porco you were not amused. You were staring at him as if he had just suggested terrorizing senior citizens, or stealing candy from babies. “What the hell do you mean? We’re not doing anything besides leaving.” A cold breeze suddenly ripped through your body, making your hair fly wildly in the wind and your clothes to ruffle. Noticing your shiver, Porco opened the passenger door, nudging his head at you to get in.

“You must be insane if you think I’m getting into a car with you.”

Porco chuckled. “I mean, it’s not like you haven’t before.”

You rolled your eyes. “That was an emergency. Believe it or not, I don’t need your help.”

Porco shrugged. “Fine by me. I don’t need your whiny ass in my car either.”

“Okay, good for you.” You replied sarcastically, a fake smile spread on your face.

Porco scoffed before crossing his arms. “But a heads up would have been nice before I drove all the way here.”

You narrowed your eyes at him. “You live down the street.”

Porco ignored you, leaning back in his chair and looking up at the car’s ceiling. “I’m gonna kill Jean.”

“After me.” You chuckled humorlessly. “What’s his problem? He needs his ass kicked.” Porco grunted in agreement.

“Matter of fact,” You pulled your phone out of your pocket, dialing Jean’s number. “I’m gonna give him a piece of my mind right now.”

Porco raised an eyebrow at you. “I’m down, too.”
You pressed the phone to your ear, tapping your foot as the phone rang. The call went to voicemail, so you quickly redialed. Of course Jean was ignoring your calls. He knew what he had done. You groaned in frustration.

“Uh, are you good?” Porco questions, eyeing you with a perplexed expression on his chiseled face. He was used to seeing you upset at him, but never at anybody else.

You pointed to your phone. “Jean is conveniently not answering.”

Porco snorted. “Typical. Let me try.” He dialed Jean on his own phone, putting it on speaker. “Well, are you going to get in? I’m just wasting heat with the window open.”

You rolled your eyes, but begrudgingly got into the car. You had to admit it was a nice car, and you secretly wondered how Porco got it. Porco pressed a button on his side door, causing your window to close as he waited for Jean to answer.

“This is Jean! Leave a message, if you still do that sort of thing.” Jean’s voicemail responded.

Porco hung up, letting out an exhale. “He’s not gonna pick up.”

You held a finger up to him, signaling for him to wait and began dialing someone you knew would without fail know where Jean was.

“Hellooo?” Connie’s voice filled the car.

“Connie! It’s Y/N.” You spoke cheerily. “I just had a favor to ask you.”

“Ahh, so you’re finally interested in the Con-Man? See, I knew you’d come around-”

Blushing furiously, you took him off speaker as quickly as you could. Porco shot you a curious look, and you turned to the side to avoid his gaze. “No, it’s not that.” You chuckled awkwardly.

Connie grew quiet. “So you’re not asking me out?”

You bit your lip, resisting the urge to scream. “Sorry, Connie, not this time. I just need to know if Jean’s with you.”

Connie sighed. “Y/N, if you liked Jean you should have just said so. Do I think he’s good boyfriend material? No. But if he’s who you really want-”

“Connie, focus.” You snapped. “Please just tell me where he is.”

Connie chuckled. “Eager, are we? Well, he’s at work. Go get him, tiger.”

You thanked Connie, and figured Jean would explain that Y/N was not interested in either of them. Connie had a small crush on you, from what Jean hadsaid, but you only saw him as a funny, slightly weirder cousin. Which is why you avoided contacting him directly. But in this case, you were desperate.

“Who was that?” Porco’s tone was suggestive.

You shook your head. “That was Jean’s best friend. He says he’s at work. So, he’s probably not going to respond for a while.”

Porco groaned. “So…I guess my Saturday plans are ruined.”

You shrugged. “Sorry. I wouldn’t have agreed if, well-”

“If you had known it was me.” Porco finished. “I get it. It’s not your fault. But now I feel stupid for not putting it together.”

You pressed your lips together, unsure of what to say. “Well, you aren’t the sharpest tool in the shed.”

Porco shot you a look, which caused you to crack a smile. “Kidding. Who did Jean say I was?”
Porco frowned at the memory. “He refused to tell me, but he said he called you ‘curly fry’.”

Your face instantly heated up at the silly nickname Jean had given you. If you were mad at him before, you were even more pissed now.

Porco noticed your flustered reaction, and smirked. “What? You don’t like that name?”
“What do you think?”

He let out a small laugh, which you noticed caused his eyes to squint and the tip of his nose to blush. Your cheeks warmed and you glanced away, hoping it wasn’t obvious you were observing him so intently.

“I think it suits you, though.” Porco added, the corners of his lips tugging upwards. “You are curly.”

You scoffed. “So I should call you ‘slick back gel-lo’ because of your hair?”

Porco frowned. “What the hell? No.”

You wore a smug expression at his reaction. He was just so predictable. Only he could tease people, but he couldn’t handle it in return.

“Where does Jean work anyways?” Porco muttered, his fingers nervously drumming on the steering wheel. He was always so fidgety. You snorted, a memory of Jean in his ghastly uniform coming to mind.

“You would never guess.” You told him.

Porco shrugged. “Restaurant?”

You bit back a giggle. From what you knew, Jean kept his workplace secretive. But since he had decided to cross your boundaries with who you wished to associate with, you decided he was no longer deserving of your discretion, either.

Porco noticed your smirk. “What? What is it?” Impatient as ever, just eager to know something embarrassing about people to later use as ammunition.

You pondered revealing it for a second more. Was it really worth it? Embarrassing Jean?

Well, you could always act dumb. I’m sorry, Jean-bo. We just wanted some ice cream, I didn’t mean to expose your ugly costume, and a well timed pout- he couldn’t prove you did it on purpose. And it wasn’t your fault he just happened to work at the nearest ice cream shop…

“How do you feel about some ice cream?” Your eyes glinted mischievously, and Porco couldn’t resist the grin growing on his face at the sight of your change in demeanor. For once, you weren’t the uptight shrew he knew you as. Whatever you were planning, it must be good.

-

“Welcome to Frosty Trosty! How may we serve you today-” Jean’s cheery salutation was cut short once he saw it was you and Porco at the door, wearing smug expressions. Just his luck, he was decked out in full Banny gear, including his phallic shaped hat and oversized buttons expressing the daily specials and an “ASK ME ABOUT GLUTEN FREE!”option, and he was the only one working the floor right now, since it was early.

He nearly let out a yelp when he saw you two approaching, and resisted the urge to run into the backroom screaming for help.

“Well, if it isn’t Jean! I wasn’t expecting to see you here.” You feigned ignorance, laying a hand on your chest. Jean paled as if he had seen a ghost. Or as if he had caught a glimpse of what was in store for him. “Did you know Jean worked here, Porco?”

Porco shook his head cheerily. “Why, no! What a nice surprise.”

“Don’t you just love it when people you don’t expect to see show up?” You continued.

Porco played along, nodding vigorously. “Love it.”

Jean chuckled awkwardly. “H-Hey, guys.”

“Banny says you’re ice cool!” Suddenly, the banana split mascot appeared next to Porco, startling him.

“What the fuck is that thing? A penis-”

“Banny is a banana split!” Banny corrected, attempting to keep the conversation PG. To be fair, he was oddly colored, having been worn out from many years of use, but if it weren’t for his cherry nose and large shoes he could’ve fooled anyone. “Banny will banana split for you!” The mascot did a split on the parlor’s floor, and you clapped in mock cheer, making eye contact with a mortified Jean.

“Very cool. Now, if you’ll excuse us,” Porco sidestepped the banana.

“Banny hopes you have a cherry-fic day!” The mascot exclaimed, doing jazz hands with his massive gloved hands. He sounded like an even more comical version of Baymax. He stood and did a twirl for you.

“Beat it, Banny!” Jean snapped.

Banny whimpered in sadness, lowering his gaze to the floor. He dramatically rubbing his shoe over a dirty spot on the floor.

“Aww, c’mon. We were enjoying Banny’s performance. Isn’t that right, Y/N?” Porco leaned his arm against your shoulder, and if it weren’t for your dedication to intimidating Jean you would’ve been caught off guard. You also noted how Porco addressed you by name, as opposed to your last name.

You nodded, exaggerating a frown. “C’mon, Jean-bo.” Your voice oozed false sympathy for Banny, and Banny clasped his gloves together, nodding in approval. He looked from you to Jean and back, not quite grasping you did not have any interest in Banny, just in irritating Jean.

The glare Jean was giving you was deadly. You had not only crossed a line in bringing Porco to witness his humiliating work environment, but you had called him by his childhood nickname. He had underestimated how vindictive you could be.

“Banny senses icy behavior!” Banny unceremoniously announced.

“Alright, bud, we get it. You like to speak in third person.” Porco patted Banny’s shoulder. “I think it’s time to go, though.”

Banny gave a thumbs down. He sulked all the way to the back, and the three of you watched him go.

“Before you say anything, look how great you guys are getting along! You both put your differences aside to torture me.” Jean threw his hands up. “You should be thanking me.”

You crossed your arms. “Jean, why did you lie to us and act like we didn’t know each other?”

“Yeah, and why didn’t you tell me I was gonna be teaching Y/N?”Porco added unhelpfully. You narrowed your eyes at Porco.

“That’s literally what I said, Porco.”

“Yeah- I was trying to help.” he whispered.

“What?” You whispered back. “I don’t need-” You decided to drop it, shaking your head mid sentence and turning back to Jean, who was watching the interaction with a raised eyebrow and an amused expression on his face, twirling an ice cream scoop in his left hand. “The point is, you lied to us.”

“I didn’t lie.” Jean retaliated.

Your arms dropped from their crossed position. “Um, you did.”

“Um,” Jean mimicked you. “I didn’t lie though. You guys don’t know each other. Seriously! Think!” He tapped his temple with his large finger. “Why do you hate each other so much? Because you don’t know enough about the other. In fact, you should be thanking me! This is an opportunity for you guys to get along now and stop that weird tension between you. I mean, you guys worked so well together to find me! Neither of you killed each other!”

You scoffed, glancing at Porco to gauge his reaction. You hadn’t killed each other, but you did have a small argument driving to the ice cream place, because you insisted you knew a shortcut and Porco didn’t believe you, opting to take a longer route. Everytime you tried to explain, he raised the volume of his GPS until you were drowned out.

When you caught Porco’s eye, he averted his gaze, and you realized he wasn’t so adamantly opposed to Jean’s explanation as you were. You turned back to Jean, suddenly growing anxious. “So what, you did it on purpose?”

He sighed. “Well, yes and no. It wasn’t my plan to make you guys become besties or anything. But you needed lessons, and Porco’s the only one with a stick. And you mentioned you had went on some mission to rescue Mikasa so I just thought you guys could make it work.” Jean mumbled.

You softened, seeing Jean’s sincerity at wanting to help you.

Yes, what he had done was manipulative, but he had done it to help you. And he was right. Were you that immature you couldn’t accept a favor from Porco?

You sighed. “Jean…”

“I’m sorrryyy, Y/N.” Jean pleaded. “Don’t be mad! I’ll never make you work with Porco again. And I’ll stop bugging you about your hot friends for a whole week.”

You found your resolve cracking, and a giggle escaped. Damned Jean. He always found a way to make you laugh. “Fine.” You muttered. “Fine. But if you ever lie to me again-”

Jean held his hands up. “I know, I know.”

Porco cleared his throat. “I mean, I was never that against the lessons in the first place.”

You and Jean shot him a look of confusion.

“But weren’t you just-”

“You were just gonna do it because you thought she was hot!” Jean exclaimed.

You gasped, and Porco let out a shout of protest.

“Not true! I didn’t know it was Y/N!” He insisted.

“Thanks.” You muttered.

-

Ten minutes later, you and Porco sat in a booth, facing the large window overlooking the parking lot. You were licking your icecream, still not done savoring it. You weren’t sure if it was because you were broke, but free food tasted so much better. Jean had, of course, given you both complimentary ice cream for your woes. Porco had long ago finished his, and was staring out the window as well.

Unbeknownst to you, Porco was examining you from his peripheral vision. You were engrossed in finishing the cone Jean had given you, and Porco found it humorous how you attempted to lick the cone before it dripped down the sides. You tore into the cone as if you had never eaten before, and Porco wondered if you treated yourself to sweets as much as you’d like. He was fortunate to have been born into an upper middle class family, and with his brother Marcel forgoing him and becoming a doctor, his family was able to prosper more. He was on a partial scholarship at Paradis for athletic excellence, so he didn’t carry a financial burden as much as other students he knew did. A quick glance at your shoes again, and the line of worry that formed on his face deepened. He wasn’t into fashion much, but he had noticed you tended to repeat outfits, and that your red converse were just one skidmark shy of falling apart. You didn’t ever seem to display that it affected you, nor did you seem materialistic.

No matter how much Porco tried to deny it, he tended to notice you, and the differences in your appearance. He remembered one day you were wearing a beanie that matched your converse, and he thought that was cool how you managed to coordinate the details like that. He also overheard that Historia had made it for you, and he didn’t know why, but that really impressed him- that you weren’t superficial to turn down a homemade gift. Ever since that day, he made sure to take note of your outfits, even if he wasn’t into fashion. And that’s when he realized you didn’t vary them much, but you still found a way to showcase your personality, something he also admired.

Porco was obviously not the most open person. But with you, he felt as if he had to bear his soul to get a reaction from you. He figured that’s what contributed to your arguments- you both just had so much to say to each other.

“Galliard?” Your voice brought him back to reality.

His eyes flickered to yours, and as nonchalantly as he could muster, he responded. “Yeah?”

“I asked you why you have two cars.” You repeated. He had completely zoned out, and it made you feel awkward.

“Oh.” Porco sat up, as he had begun to slouch. He hated slouching- it was a sign he was letting his guard down. “It’s actually my brother’s. He’s a fancy doctor.”

You noticed his tone shift. He spoke with pride about his brother, and his chest inflated a little, as if he was the doctor. “Oh, wow.” You replied appreciatively. “Good for him.”

Porco nodded. “Yeah, he’s my role model. He really pushed through for us.”

Your eyes widened at his sudden display of vulnerability. “Y-yeah. It must have been hard.”

Porco sighed. “Yeah, and I was a preteen little shit not making things much easier for him. He was juggling two jobs and full time school the whole time, and I was bugging him about me getting the newest video games.”

You swallowed the last of your icecream. You could kind of relate to what Porco was saying, except you were an only child. Before you could understand what the concept of money was, and how difficult it was for your parents to obtain it, you would beg for expensive toys or name brand clothes. As you grew, you learned asking was just another burden to your overworked parents. So it was no secret you were on a full scholarship at university, although you wish you had achieved higher grades so you could have earned more. But you were grateful for what you had earned, and although it was hard for you to be away from home, you knew it would soon be worth it when you could alter your parents’ financial status.

“I think you’re being too hard on yourself.” You told him. “You were a kid. A preteen, no less. At that age, you just think of yourself, which is normal, unfortunately.”

“Huh.” Porco murmured. “I guess you’re right.”

You both sat wordlessly for a few more minutes, processing what you had shared.

The shop had slowly begun to fill with customers, it being noon and now deemed appropriate ice cream time. You watched as a family entered, a young girl of about three perched on her father’s shoulders, excitedly motioning to the ice cream.

“Is that where you work?” Porco suddenly spoke, pointing to Garrison’s, which was across the street.

“How’d you know?” You eyed him suspiciously.

Porco huffed. “I’ve seen you in the uniform, okay?”

“Not creepy at all.” You retorted.

Porco tsked. “Merely an observation.”

“I’m sure.”

You gathered your garbage, and headed to a trash bin, disposing of it.

“Well, I’m finished.” You said once you returned to the booth.

Porco nodded. “So… if you’re down, I’m down.”

Your eyebrows furrowed. “Huh?”

Porco cleared his throat, unsure of how to proceed. “Um, the, er, lessons.”

“Lesson-Oh.” You finally caught on to what he was insinuating, and the offer made your face burn. You were often prideful, unable to accept help from anyone. But in this instance, you knew that without Porco and his access to a manual car, you were screwed. “Are you sure you still want to teach me?”

Porco mumbled something incoherently.

“I can’t hear you.” You motioned with your hand for him to raise his voice volume.

“I never had an issue with teaching you.” Porco grumbled. “But since you were upset I wasn’t gonna force you.”

You felt a pang of guilt. Maybe you had overreacted, and assumed Porco’s intentions. “Oh. I-Well, Thank you, Porco, and I apologize, really. I-I wasn’t trying to be rude, I just didn’t think you would want to teach me genuinely-”

Porco waved his hand at you and stood, bagging his keys in his pockets. “Y/N, I know. Just save the apology for later. We’ve got lessons.”

Before you could respond, he was walking towards the door.

“Porco!” You rushed after him. He was walking way too fast, for once. Where was this speed in the hallway?

What you didn’t see was Porco attempting to shield his blush from you.

You waved goodbye at Jean, who was busy scooping ice cream for the family you had seen enter earlier. The little girl’s hands were pressed against the glass, and her father was kneeling beside her, pointing at the flavors and whispering in her ear. Jean nodded at you, and shot a sly wink in Porco’s direction, to which you gave him a look of annoyance.

You followed Porco out the door, and were hit instantly by a gust of wind.

“You aren’t gonna wear your little hat?” Porco quipped, referring to your cat ear hat he had spent a good few minutes before poking fun at you for.

You smirked. “Where’s your youth pastor jacket?”

His grin dropped, having been offended. “I don’t understand why you call me that.” He complained.

You muffled your giggle against your hand, not wanting to show him you found teasing him amusing. He did look like a youth pastor, and you were surprised he didn’t see the resemblance.

As you both walked to his car, he automatically reached over you and opened the door for you, before heading to his side and entering. You didn’t think much of the gesture, figuring he was just used to opening the door for people so they didn’t harm his brother’s car. Yet your heart pounded in your chest as you sat in the passenger side, unsure of how you somehow always managed to end up with Porco.

Chapter Text

“𝗦𝗢 𝗛𝗢𝗪 𝗪𝗔𝗦 𝗬𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗗𝗥𝗜𝗩𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗦𝗘𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡?“ Mikasa asked as you entered the apartment.

You sighed, rubbing a hand over your forehead. How wasn’t your driving session? You didn’t even know where to begin.

“It was…odd.” You mumbled, setting your jacket on the coat rack by the door.

“What?” Mikasa asked, alarmed. “What happened?”

You gave her a vague description of the day’s events, beginning with how Porco was your surprise instructor. After her initial shock, Mikasa urged you to continue detailing what you could only describe as an… eventful first lesson.

“Alright, we’re here.” Porco announced as he pulled into the library parking lot.

“I see that.” You replied. “What now?”
Porco unbuckled his seatbelt, and gestured towards the wheel.

“Now, we switch spots. C’mon.” He exited the car, and walked towards your door, waiting for you. You hesitantly opened the door and placed your feet on the gravel.

Once you had gotten into the driver’s side, you questioningly turned to him. “I’m here.”

Porco rolled his eyes. “I see that.” He referenced your earlier sarcasm.

“So…Do I start driving, or?” You motioned towards the steering wheel and the gearshift.

“Oh,” Porco chuckled. “My bad, I forgot. A stick is completely different from an automatic. First, look at the pedals.” You did, seeing that there were three as opposed to two. “So, the first one on the left is the clutch. The other two are your normal gas and brake.”

You nodded. “The clutch.” You whispered back to yourself.

“Okay, now look at the gear shift. First gear is top left corner, and the other four are top to bottom and left to right. The center is neutral.”

He pointed with his large finger. You bit your lip, trying to engrain his instruction in your memory. You were a visual learner, and often did badly with written directions.

Noticing your look of comprehension, Porco took a deep breath, attempting again. “Alright, I’m sensing that didn’t process.”

You offered a sheepish smile. How embarrassing. Not only did you berate Porco constantly for being clueless, but you were now in need of his help and looked like an idiot not being able to memorize five positions.

“Think of it like Pac-Man. You just move the ‘joystick’ from here to here,” His finger went between left and right, “This is reverse,” He moved his finger up to top on the stick, “And this is Drive, Park, etcetera.”

“B-but… how can it be drive and park at the same time?” You asked in a small voice. For some reason, you feared upsetting him.

Porco blinked at you. “Um… you just… Well…” He scratched his neck. He hadn’t really been taught a technical way, he and Marcel just went for it. “You know what? When the time comes, you’ll know.”

Your eyes widened. “Um, isn’t that a dangerous way of going about it?”

Porco waved his hand at you, dismissing your concern. “I haven’t crashed yet, so you’ll be fine.”

Like that was reassuring. “Okay, what’s next?” You decided to move past it, as you were starting to realize that conversing with Porco meant picking your battles.

“You gotta start it now. So switch it to neutral, then press down on the clutch all the way to the floorboard with your left foot and turn the key in the ignition.”

“Woah, okay, lots of instructions.” You took a deep breath. You adjusted your seat, deciding to stall for time.

“What the hell are you so close to the wheel for?” Porco scoffed. He was scrolling through his playlist, deciding on a popular Drake song.

You glowered at him. “I’m significantly shorter than you.”

Porco snickered. “You look like a granny.”

“Shut up.” You grumbled.

“Start the car then.” Porco quipped.

You felt as if there was still information you were missing, but in order to preserve your pride, you began the unreasonably difficult task of starting the car. As you pushed the clutch in with your foot, the motor made a guttural sound that alarmed you. You felt resistance from the clutch, and Porco immediately grabbed the gear shift, his large hand encompassing yours.

“Woah! Woah. Calm down.” Porco noticed your knuckles turning white as you gripped the steering wheel with your other hand, and how the color seemed to drain from your face. Unfortunately, you weren’t sure if it was due to Porco’s sudden physical contact with your hand or from the fear of crashing.

“Just, relax the grip a little. It has to be in one sure, consistent motion, like this.” He demonstrated the motion with his foot and his other hand working simultaneously. “You’re pausing in the middle which is why it’s resisting.”

You nodded, too scared to formulate a witty response. The thought of ruining Marcel’s car was terrifying, so you did as Porco showed you. The engine purred appreciatively, so you assumed you had done it right this time.

“There you go,” Porco leaned back in his seat, relieved. He removed his handoff the gearshift, and off of yours, and you released a breath of relief.

“You got it. Now this part’s easy. Let your foot off the brake slowly,then put your hand on the throttle and ease up on the clutch, switch to the gas.”

You nodded, gripping the throttle. “Like this?”

Porco nodded. “Yep.” He folded his arms behind his head and leaned back once more. “Then it should be smooth sailing,  just make sure to not press on the accelerator too fast-”

The last part did not register, as you were preoccupied timing your release of the clutch and pressing the accelerator. The car zoomed forward with increased velocity, and you let out a scream as you were sure you were about to crash into a pole.

Porco was also screaming, but at you to BRAKE. “Y/N! PRESS THE BRAKE! WE’RE GONNA DIE!”

Somehow you managed to control your fear and your foot automatically slammed on the brakes, causing you and Porco to jut forward, thankfully without injury.

After a few seconds of mutual panting and shocked silence, the sound of Drake’s music filling the car, Porco aggressively pressed the “off” button to the radio and crossed his arms. You risked a glance at him, and saw he was staring at you already, disbelief evident on his face.

“I-” You began, but Porco cut you off.

“I cannot believe you did that.”

You winced. “I didn’t do it on purpose.”

Porco clenched his fists at his side. “You nearly killed us! Who in their right mind would accelerate at full speed?! Are you insane?”

You gasped, taking offense to his somewhat well founded argument. “I literally didn’t know it would do that!”

Porco scoffed. “It’s common sense, L/N! Common! Sense! Which you seem to lack, as I’m realizing.” He ran a hand over his face. Clearly, you had aggravated him with your less than exceptional driving. You remained silent, chewing on your bottom lip. You didn’t know how to respond, and you weren’t sure there was anything you could say to ease his irritation.

Noticing your uncharacteristic silence, Porco peeked at you.

You opened your mouth as if to speak, and Porco watched you expectantly, awaiting your explanation as to why you were incapable of using basic reasoning when learning to drive. Instead, the only sound that left your lips was a hiccup. Your hand flew to your mouth in embarrassment, but you were unable to control the flow of hiccups that began escaping your lips in quick succession. Porco’s eye twitched at the sound, and he fixed his steely gaze on you-willing you to stop.

But you were doomed. Once you began hiccupping, it could take up to fifteen minutes for it to end. You didn’t do it on purpose, you were just prone to anxiety ridden hiccup attacks. You usually exited whatever room you were in at the moment until they subsided, but there was nowhere for you to go besides out of the car and into the cold air. Porco was cold and mean, but you didn’t think he was cruel enough to push you out.

Apparently, Porco was also impatient, and grew easily irritated when it came to the motions of the human body. “For the love of God, would you shut up?” Porco snapped at you suddenly.

His outburst was so random it caused you to swallow the hiccup you were about to let go and begin coughing. You hacked, covering your mouth with your elbow as your throat burned. In that moment you were pretty sure you had the worst luck to date. Your cheeks blazed with heat, and you were certain you looked sickly.

Porco stared at you with wide eyes, unsure of what to do. A second later, he snapped out of his stupor and instinctively began patting your back. His mom used to do that to him whenever he choked on water, or when he was sick and had been coughing for days straight. You were clearly just choking, but nonetheless Porco figured it would help.

You were surprised when his touch didn’t cause you to recoil in disgust immediately. If anything, it felt nice. His large hand rubbing against your back was soothing, and your coughs ceased soon after.

“You okay?” Porco asked after you regained some composure.

“Yeah.” You choked out.

Porco ran his fingers through his hair awkwardly. “Um, sorry? For causing you to have a cough attack?”

You side eyed him suspiciously. “Are you apologizing for causing mepain? You?”

“Don’t make me take it back. If anything, you owe me an apology. You almost killed me. And if Marcel’s car got totaled, he would revive me and kill me again.”

You let out an airy breath at his comment, as the image of Porco’s older brother hurting him was comical to you. The corners of Porco’s lips turned upwards slightly at the sound. He hadn’t ever really seen you laugh, or do something resembling a laugh, at something hesaid. He sat a little straighter, oddly proud of getting that reaction out of you.

“Do you still want to continue?” You asked.

Porco clicked his tongue as he thought. Was it worth it? He didn’t even know how you had managed to learn how to drive a regular car, and if you were going to be able to learn this in a day as he had planned. The car was in park, and was certain to stall if he didn’t make his decision soon.

You reached over to the floor of his seat and grasped at your bag as he deliberated. Porco leaned back almost immediately, as if you had the plague and he couldn’t come in direct contact with you- as if he hadn’t automatically placed his hand over yours a few moments ago.

“What are you doing?” Porco stuttered, his cheeks blazing with heat at how close to his nether regions you were.

You grumbled in frustration and sat back in your seat. “I’m trying to get my bag, you weirdo, not groping you.”

Porco’s blush intensified with your comment, and he ducked down to hide it. His fingers closed around the strap of your bag, and in one quick motion he lifted it from under the seat. “What do you need?” He questioned.

“Chapstick.” You mumbled.

He then began to rummage through your bag, much to your surprise. You let out a cry in protest, and he held a finger up to quiet your qualms.

“Relax.” He then handed you the purple tube of chapstick, a triumphant smirk on his face. “See? I know what I’m doing.”

You snatched it from him, disapproval apparent on your face. “You literally just digged through my things.”

Porco rolled his eyes, scoffing. “You’re welcome.”

“You could have just handed me my bag? I don’t like people going through my things-”

“What else do you have in here? Bricks?” Porco disregarded everything you were saying and shook your bag, which truthfully did contain a bit more than necessary.

“What the hell? Give it back-” You reached for the bag, but Porco dodged your arm, raising it just out of your arm’s length.
He was teasing you, obviously enjoying the reaction it caused you to have him invade your privacy. It wasn’t like Porco set out to purposely irritate you, he just found it incredibly amusing how you responded so intensely to the slightest bit of provocation. On second thought, maybe it was purposely.

You, on the other hand, didn’t understand how Porco could be so insufferable. It was as if he found pleasure in tormenting you, always doing the opposite of whatever you said. He was such a-

“A child! You’re literally a child!” You screeched, shoving his surprisingly sculpted arm. You figured all that posing for Instagram paid off after a while. BUT that’s besides the point- you continued your assault on Porco, unrelenting even as he cackled mercilessly at your inability to grab the bag he expertly swerved out of your touch.

“Alright, alright,” Porco giggled. He actually giggled, like a schoolgirl. “Here. But what’s this?” He plucked out the bag of brownies you had packed earlier, the bright plastic they were wrapped in catching his attention. He really was a child, getting distracted by shiny wrapping.

“Ooh! Brownies.” Porco smirked. “For me?”

You felt heat rising to your face, and prayed that it wasn’t noticeable. “Those were for who I thought was going to be a nice driving teacher.”

Porco snorted. “And am I not your nice driving teacher? Gimme one.”

You frowned. “Those weren’t for you, Porco!” You lunged for the brownies, but Porco caught your arm in mid air. You glared at him, but he simply raised an eyebrow at you, challenging you to continue. You were both silent for a second, glaring at each other, daring the other to continue pushing the limit.

“Use your words, curly fry.” Porco whispered almost menacingly. His tone was sweet, but you knew the underlying meaning underneath it. He was taunting you, dangling the brownies in front of you. “C’mon, let’s hear it.”

Your eye twitched. “Choke.”

He pouted. “Aww, that’s no way to talk to your driving teacher, is it? I guess I’ll have to take one as payment.”

You crossed your arms. “I hate you.”

He shook his head at your sentiment. “Shame. Why don’t you want me to have one? You had made ‘em for a complete stranger. But because it’s me you won’t let me have one? Seriously?”

Your scowl deepend. “No, it’s the fact that you illegally acquired possession of them.”

“Pftt.” Porco began unwrapping the bag, his large fingers surprisingly delicate as he made sure to not tear the bag. “What’re you gonna do? Sue me? With what evidence?” As if to prove his point, he popped a piece of one in his mouth, dramatically munching on it. You rolled your eyes at his theatrics, figuring it was too late and you might as well let him indulge in the baked goods. While you didn’t have a problem with Porco eating them, you were more nervous about the fact that you had baked them yourself and you didn’t know if he would like the taste. Your bottom lip made its way in between your upper teeth, and you bit at it in an attempt to hide your anxiety as Porco chewed for what seemed like an incredulous amount of time on the small morsel of brownie.

“Well?” You asked once he finally swallowed. His expression had remained neutral, and you weren’t sure if that was to torture you.

He made eye contact with you, before breaking into a grin. “That was a good ass brownie. I see why that cat of yours is obese.”

You rolled your eyes. “I don’t feed my cat brownies.”

Porco grabbed another brownie from the bag. “Well, you should. I hate to say it, but these are heavenly.”

You hated the way your body reacted to his praise, blood instantly rushing to your face and neck. You chalked it off as just being complimented on your exceptional baking skills. “Why do you hate to say it?” You replied instead.

Porco shrugged. “Dunno. Why do you not like being called ‘curly fry’? It’s just not something I do.”

“What, compliment people? Or is it just me?”

Porco shot you a look. “Don’t think you’re so special, L/N. I just don’t like praisin’ people is all. Inflating their ego, why would I do that?”

You snorted. Of course Porco would think that anything having to do with being nice was useless, ever the prideful fool.

Although, you could suppose you were a prideful fool as well, not wanting to allow Porco to help you in the first place. You thought it was a kind gesture, agreeing to help you- until he started rummaging in your bag and you realized there was a reason you did your best to avoid him.

“What’s this?” Porco picked up the miniature decorative thank you card you had placed inside the baggie. “A note?”

You knew he was just dragging it out now, especially by the way he was deliberately opening the card at a snail’s pace. “’Thank you so much for helping me! I appreciate it so much.’ Aww, would you look at that.” Porco read aloud in a high-pitched voice which you assumed was supposed to be an imitation of yours. “I call B.S- you’d never say this shit in real life.”

You managed to snatch the card away, defensively clutching it to your chest. “Not to you. Some people actually find me tolerable.”

Porco grunted. “I would like to meet those so-called people, then.”

“Are you going actually teach me now? Or are you too busy mocking me?”

Porco chuckled. “L/N, who says I can’t do both?”

“So, yeah, it wasn’t terrible, but I think I’ve had my fair share of Porco for today.” You shuddered after you finished recanting to Mikasa how the lesson went. Mikasa let out a deep breath, shaking her head.

“Jesus. It really is a miracle you guys didn’t kill each other.” She remarked.

You tsked at her observation. “Yet. Key word would be yet.”

Mikasa shrugged. “I don’t know, I think Jean is right. You guys could benefit from this. You, for obvious reasons, and him because he might learn to accept you.”

She stood from her seat at the counter to pour herself a glass of orange juice while you huffed indignantly at her comment.

“I’m the one who needs accepting? I literally listened to him rant about the merits of using a boxing ring to resolve legal issues for an hour.” You argued.

Mikasa chuckled. “Maybe he’s warming up to you, if he gave you his speech about ‘boxing settlements.’”

Your eyes widened at her casual statement. “So you’ve already heard him speak about it? And you didn’t warn me?”

Mikasa giggled. “We kind of associate the term with Porco now.”

You sighed. “That is so like him, too. Only he would find violence a suitable solution for a civil dispute.”

Mikasa hummed in agreement, returning to her seat to face you. “So, what now? Was that all?”

You bit your lip. “That’s the thing… I did kind of learn something.”

Mikasa raised her eyebrows at you over the rim of her glass, motioning with her hand for you to continue. Deciding to just rip the bandaid off, you took a deep breath before blurting the rest of your confession out. “So… we agreed to set up some weekly practices until I learned well enough.” It was true. You both agreed on Thursday in the afternoon, since it was both of your off days. When you asked Porco how many lessons he was down to give you, he responded curtly: “As many as it takes.”

The dark haired girl nearly spat her drank out, hastily setting her cup down as the realization of what you said settled on her.

“Yes, I know. I was just complaining only to repeat it again next week.” You beat her to what you figured she was about to say.

“What, like a partnership now?” Mikasa inquired, attempting to clarify the exact dilemma you had managed to get yourself in. You rubbed at your eyes, not entirely sure yourself how or why you had agreed to letting Porco teach you.

“I guess? Except for once, Porco isn’t really benefiting from it. Unless you count the baked goods I provide him with.”

For the first time in a while, Mikasa looked surprised. Her dark eyes were wide, and she was at a loss for words.

“What?” You groaned, covering your face with your hands. “You’re gonna tell me I’m dumb. That we’re gonna end up hating each other more than we already do.”

“No, no,” Mikasa responded softly. “I was just thinking, that’s actually very sweet of Porco.”

You removed a hand from your eye, peeking at her. You expected to see another head growing from her neck, or a parasite sprouting on her face. Because there was no way your friend found your arch nemesis… sweet. Of all things, sweet! Porco Galliard had many characteristics, but being sweet was not one of them. Sweet was bunnies and babies, not rude, over gelled hair wearing, arrogant men.

“It’s just his guilty conscience for tormenting me the past year with his attitude.” You brushed off Mikasa’s comment. Mikasa simply shrugged, knowing you well enough by now to know that when you denied something, it was because you were not open at the moment to hear anything else. She would let it go, and go about her day.

Mikasa was quiet, but she was strong-willed and formed consistent opinions about people and situations on her own. Even if everyone disagreed with her, she would stick by what she thought because she was unwavering in the opposite way you were. While you were more stubborn and easy to anger upon facing disagreement (i.e: Porco), Mikasa usually let others dialogue their thoughts, taking into consideration their beliefs but not usually changing what she knew to align herself with them. Which is to say, even though you denied what she observed, she knew that eventually you would agree- and even if you didn’t, she maintained that she was right.

Unbeknownst to Mikasa, you meditated on what she had said over and over throughout the rest of the day. You attempted and failed to find an excuse as to why Porco would help you. Why Porco would ever spare his precious time for you, with no notable benefit in return. You questioned and analyzed if perhaps Porco owed you, or was trying to prank you. But it didn’t seem like he had the energy or even intelligence to pull off something as complex as that. It didn’t make sense- and he was too self centered to give up his day off to prank you over something petty.

Or was he actually as self centered as you had made him seem in your mind? Because even though you weren’t sure of all his motives or reasons, the fact was that he was sacrificing his time to do something for you. Maybe he was awaiting something that he wouldn’t reveal until you were in too deep.

In all the possibilities you formed, you still couldn’t deny what you knew- Porco was teaching you, for free, so far. And as much as you despised it, you had to accept the truth- the action was sweet.

You nearly vomited. Porco Galliard, synonymous with sweet. You were pretty sure you had lost your mind.

-

There comes a time in almost every college student’s life that schoolwork, work, social obligations, and mental health pile on to create what is known as burnout. Midterm season was quickly approaching; and your sense of dread increased more with each passing day. You were so far on top of all your duties (which is more than you can say for your friends) but that didn’t mean you were safe for what was known as Hell Week at Paradis University. Not to mention, the store was short-staffed due to many of the new hires quitting to focus solely on midterms. You desperately wished that could have been you, but between your bills to pay and your goal of owning a car, you couldn’t quit. You didn’t even allow yourself so much as the luxury of hanging out with your friends this season, as you had to focus on being prepared for the upcoming burden of schoolwork that was sure to occupy most of your free time.

You were, to put it shortly, stressed. The last few weeks consisted of work, study, work, eat a small meal (cereal or eggs- whichever took less time), sleep a few meager hours, school, study, and repeat. You barely saw Mikasa, although the one time you exited your cave of a room to get a drink from the fridge you startled her and your appearance prompted her to ask if you were alright. You simply laughed humorlessly in response and shut yourself in your room again, cramming endless hours of seemingly useless information into your brain once more.

You and Porco had met up once more since your first initial lesson, and it was pretty smooth sailing. You more or less got the hang of turning the car on, and there was only a small instance when the car stalled on a small hill that caused an argument between you two. But besides that, Porco claimed you were making progress. You both agreed to put the lessons on pause for a week due to midterms. In the meantime, you contacted the owner of the mini cooper and came to an agreement that you would pay half upfront as long as they could hold it while you officially learned to use the stick. The owner agreed, but refused to accept your money, giving you their word that they would hold onto it as long as you needed, since they were in no rush to get rid of it. At least you had that one thing to look forward to, and on particularly cold days when you would walk to the bus stop (you only rode it in extreme conditions, not wanting to waste the bus fare money) you daydreamed about cruising in your car, away from Trost and the pain that was academia.

You supposed you were to blame for choosing a difficult major. But that was where the money was, and where you hoped your financial troubles would not be. So, you pushed forward.

But some days, the stress got to you more than on other days, and you found yourself mentally exhausted, on the edge of hysteria and desperation. You counted down the days until the semester was over, and left your grades up to a higher power. You had done what you could, but the anxiety of not having done good enough ate away at you.

And just your luck, it was on that particular day that Porco chose to approach you.

You had woken up late by ten minutes, missing the bus and Mikasa, leaving you no other option but to walk to campus in the freezing cold. Then, as you hastily got ready, plugging in the one thing that you relied on almost more than Mikasa herself- you realized it was not turning on. You ignored it, running around the dorm locating what you needed before giving it your full attention. As you approached the tool, you realized it was worse than you had thought.

Your straightener, that you had owned ever since you were gifted it at fifteen, was broken, the wires sticking out of the ceramic plates. You choked out a sob, cradling the broken straightener as if you had just lost a child. In a way, it was like you had lost your best friend. You needed your straightener. You loved your straightener. You felt empty without it, and as if you would never look presentable again without it’s straightening capabilities.

Okay, maybe you were being a tad bit dramatic. But the sight of your untamed curls in the mirror made you want to scream. How were you expected to go out like this? To make matters worse, you were late, so you had no time to even try to do anything to it. You wiped away your tears, and began budgeting mentally to see if you could put aside $100 for a new one that would be able to work on your hair. A cheap one wouldn’t work on your thick hair, you knew that to be true.

That was already the beginning to what you began to feel was a horrible day. Then, big, fat, droplets of cold rain began to fall as you walked to class with no umbrella. You were late to class by only two minutes, but it was still enough to receive a humiliating lecture from your Microbiology teacher. Then, you received your graded review- a huge 64 circled in harsh, red ink. When you compared grades with your classmates, you realized you were one of the lowest grades in the class, further worsening your mood.
It went like that, little metaphorical straws accumulating on the metaphorical camel’s back. You always found the expression stupid- straws couldn’t break a camel’s back. But you were beginning to wonder if maybe those “straws’” weighed a ton each, because if that was the case then you empathized perfectly. You felt as if you were carrying multiple straws on your back yourself, and at any second you would just lean over and combust.

In hindsight, the “straws” were just small occurrences that were piling onto an already bad day. For example, your usual coffee was unavailable at the coffee shop, and your designated study table was taken in the student center. But in the moment, it seemed like the end of the world.

That’s where Porco found you, and unbeknownst to him, you were experiencing the worst day in your college semester. He innocently approached to greet you (“greet” as in engage in banter), and was met with a version of you that secretly made his legs shake in mild terror.

“‘Sup, L/N.” he flicked the eraser of your pencil, causing you to create a jagged line across your paper. “How’s the car buying mission going?”

You fixed a steely gaze on him, and Porco jumped from how disheveled you looked. Your eyes were ringed with bags, and you looked dangerously pale. Your hair was frizzy, unusually so. And the look in your eye was murderous, and he gulped, regretting having bothered you.

You blinked slowly at him, as if you had to take a minute to recognize who was standing in front of you.

“The what?” You whispered in a severe manner. You hadn’t heard half of what he said, besides the cumbersome habit he had of addressing you by last name.

“I-uh, I asked how you were doing in securing the car you wanted.” Porco scratched the back of his head, avoiding eye contact.

You blinked again. He was asking you that? Right now? When you were clearly busy?

“Why are you asking me this?” You huffed, rubbing your eyes. Porco frowned.

So now even speaking to you outside of lessons was a bother to you? C’mon, for fuck’s sake. Porco rolled his eyes.

“Never mind then, forget I asked.” He sneered.

“I will.” You snapped. “I’m busy.” You stood with your back to him and began brushing your things off the table and into your backpack, your concentration broken. You planned on heading to your room and napping a bit. You couldn’t explain why, but for some reason you felt horrible. Worse than this morning. And there was a slight aching sensation in your stomach…

You stood and began to walk towards the exit, when your classmate and lab partner Sandra approached you, chattering away about your upcoming project. You paused, stopping to converse with her for a bit, when Porco suddenly ran up to you and harshly whispered in your ear.

”L/N! C'mere.“ He hissed, his fingers squeezing your forearm.

"What? No.” You snapped, snatching your arm away from his grip. “I’m literally in the middle of a conversation, Porco, what’s wrong with you-”

Before you could process what was happening, Porco grabbed your sleeve, and began more or less dragging you to the hallway where it was less occupied.

“Dude, what the fuck?” You yelped, having been caught by surprise at Porco’s rough contact. “Let me go!” You looked over your shoulder to face Sandra and apologize, but you saw she was staring at you with a shocked expression, her hand covering her mouth.

“I"m so sorry about this imbecil! I’ll text you later!” You called. She simply nodded, her eyes widened in surprise.

Once you reached the corridor, Porco released you, and you noticed his cheeks were a bright shade of crimson.

“What the fuck was that for? You couldn’t wait five minutes?” You shouted, shoving him away from you slightly.

“Y/N, you- you…” He was flustered, and your snark was replaced with concern.

“What? What’s wrong?” You questioned, attempting to keep his gaze. But he wouldn’t look at you, scratching his head and looking to the side.

“You-you’re.. You’re bleeding.” Porco mumbled.

“I’m what?” you repeated, unable to decipher his mumblings.

Porco exhaled, finally looking you in the eyes. “You’re bleeding.” He repeated. He glanced down at your sweats, and you followed his gaze, confused.

Then, you felt it- a cramp.

You felt like keeling over in pain, but instead you gripped the wall, holding a hand to your pounding forehead.

“Woah, are you okay?” Porco reached out to steady you, but you waved off his advance.

“I-I’m fine. Where did you say I was bleeding?”

Porco’s blush intensified, and again, he was unable to meet your inquisitive stare. “I-It’s best if you just took my word for it. But it’s on your…” Porco gulped, struggling to vocalize where exactly you were bleeding. “Your behind.” He said in a small voice.

Your confidence was absolutely shattered, and Porco could tell from the way your face melted into a mortified expression.

“Oh, my God!” You cried, craning your neck to see if you could find the stain from your angle. And you did, identifying the red spot as the bane of your existence- your menstrual cycle.

“Oh, my God.” You felt tears spring up in your eyes, and threw a hand over your mouth to try and muffle the sobs that were sure to rack your body. These were your favorite sweats, and you were wearing cute underwear. And to make matters worse- this was all in front of Porco.

Porco watched you with wide eyes, frozen in shock. He had never, ever, seen your tough exterior crack, much less into sobs like this. This was foreign to him, and he had absolutely no idea how to proceed.

“Y/N,” Was all he was able to get out. “It’s not a big deal just-“

You wailed upon hearing that, covering your face completely with your hands in embarrassment. Luckily, nobody was in the corridor anymore, although you were sure the people in the student center would be able to hear you. But they couldn’t pinpoint it to you.

“Woah, okay, I guess I shouldn’t have said that. Umm, just- It’s normal, Y/N, don’t worry.” He frantically whispered to you. He had never comforted a crying girl, much less his enemy. And he was a little worried people would think he did this to you. “Wait, uh, I apologize if I said something that caused this-“

You sniffled, peering up at him through tear stained eyes. “What? Why-why would you think you did this?”

Porco blinked. “I-I don’t know, maybe I shouldn’t have told you?”

You shook your head, tears still falling freely from your eyes. “No, it’s not you. This was just a horrible day.” You blubbered, dabbing at your eyes with the sleeve of your sweater.

Porco bit his lip nervously. “Do you want like, a period pad or something?”

You shook your head no, too upset to laugh at his ignorance on period products. You were still crying, geez. He could see why maybe you refrained from doing so.

“This is so embarrassing. And my hair’s a mess. And now I have cramps and I don’t have any Midol at home, although I guess that explains a lot about how I felt today…” You quietly choked out. You were obviously rambling. You weren’t specifically speaking to Porco, but you had just about enough of the day and it all came spilling out of you like a confessional. You turned away from Porco, facing the wall. If this was any indicator of how the rest of the week would be, you figured you might as well accept your failure now.

You heard rustling, and you assumed Porco was shoving his things in his backpack to leave. You didn’t let it affect you- you weren’t friends after all. He wasn’t going to listen to you vent.

But much to your surprise, a green bomber jacket made its way into your line of vision. You looked up in shock, and saw Porco’s extended arm handing you the jacket, while Porco looked away from you to the side, his neck a deep shade of red.

“W-what are you doing?”

Porco grit his teeth, simply waving the jacket at you once more. “Here… Just take it.”

You still didn’t understand. “Huh? You want me to take your jacket?”

Porco let out an exasperated breath. “Yes! Just take it, you fool.”

He still refused to look at you.

Hesitantly, you reached out to grab the outstretched jacket. You pondered making sure if he was sure once more, but you decided against it once he huffed impatiently. Your hands wrapped around the collar of the jacket, and your fingers brushed his fingertips accidentally.

You pulled the jacket towards you, and Porco snatched his hand back.

“Just… use it to cover yourself. Or whatever you feel comfortable with.” Porco muttered.

You were shocked, not only at the gesture but that it was Porco. Porco, offering you his signature jacket. Even though it did resemble the youth pastor signature.

“Thank you.” You told him, hoping your voice reflected the genuine sincerity you felt. He simply nodded, finally meeting your eyes in a fleeting glance before focusing on his feet. “Just… give it back whenever.”

You nodded, too dumbstruck to formulate a response. You felt tears welling in your eyes again, and before you could thank him again, he turned on his heel and borderline sprinted down the hallway.

Your sobs subsided, and you ran the fabric of the jacket between your fingers. It was thick, and you caught the familiar scent of Porco, and… your detergent. Your detergent, mingled with Porco’s obnoxious cologne. You held the fabric up to your nose, and inhaled deeply.

It was true, there was no mistaking the familiar scent. You tied the jacket around your waist.

-

When you arrived at your dorm, you found a box on the floor with a yellow Post-It taped on labeled “L/N”. You picked it up immediately, albeit against your better judgement (you had an odd fear of mail bombs) and tore the note off, hoping to locate any identifying information. Whoever addressed it must not have known your pet peeve of being called your last name.

As you pushed through the door, Goose greeted you. You walked to your room quickly, eager to open the mysterious box, Goose trailing closely behind. Porco’s jacket swished with every movement, as it was still around your waist.

You tore into the small box, a mixture of anxiety and curiosity consuming your already hormonal emotional state. As you peeked inside, you nearly fell back in shock at it’s contents. Or rather, its singular content.

Inside was a brand new bottle of 600mg Midol, specifically for menstrual relief.

You gasped, your hand instinctively reaching up to cover your mouth. Goose rubbed between your legs, sensing your excitement, or rather, shock.

There was no way. Porco Galliard was the only person besides Mikasa who knew you were out of Midol, and on your period. Mikasa wasn’t home yet. He called you by your last name. He knows where you live.

You just couldn’t believe it. Had he really done that for you? There was no other explanation to how this box of Midol made it to your front door.

Once again, you were indebted to Porco. And then Mikasa’s adjective of choice came back to you:

Sweet.

Porco Galliard was sweet to you.

-

y/n: hey

porco: hello

y/n: thank you… for the midol

porco: i have no idea know what you’re talking about.

y/n: ?? so you’re going to act dumb ??

porco: no clue what you’re saying

y/n: so you’re not responsible for a box of midol addressed to me showing up at my door?

porco: no.

y/n: oh okay

y/n: well if you were i was just trying to say thank you

y/n: i really appreciate it.

porco: why are you telling me? i didn’t do anything

y/n: lol ok be that way.

porco: just

porco: don’t make it weird bro

y/n: LOL ok then i retract my statement?

porco: oh no i fully expect a thank you. just not so serious. i know you don’t like me, L/N, so act like it.

porco: don’t get all soft on me now

y/n: PLEASE you’re the soft one

y/n: but fine if you insist

y/n: thanks…

y/n: i guess

porco: that’s more like it 🙄

porco: altho i didn’t expect you to give in so easily

porco: lost your fire?

y/n: i will gut you like a fish, Galliard.

Chapter Text

“𝗪𝗛𝗢𝗦𝗘 𝗝𝗔𝗖𝗞𝗘𝗧 𝗜𝗦 𝗧𝗛𝗔𝗧?” Mikasa asks you as she mixes sweetener into her cup. She was referring to the green bomber jacket, draped gingerly over your forearm.

You blush, avoiding her inquisitive gaze. You distract yourself with mixing sugar into your own coffee, hoping she won’t prod you more with your vague answer. “Oh, it’s just my… classmate’s. He let me borrow it because I was cold.”

It wasn’t entirely a lie. Porco was your classmate. And you were cold that day… but that wasn’t the sole reason for Porco lending you the jacket. You chose not to divulge more information not because you didn’t trust your friend, but because you were still in disbelief that it had even occurred in the first place. And you also didn’t want her to gain the wrong idea. It was a kind favor, but just a favor nonetheless. There was no use looking too deep into it. And you didn’t even want to begin to unpack what Porco being nice to you now could signify.

Mikasa raised an eyebrow, not convinced by your short answer. You were usually a chatterbox- and now you were suddenly private and guarded? You knew she wasn’t buying it, but thankfully she didn’t push it farther and you didn’t broach the subject again. That’s also another quality about Mikasa you liked; she respected your space and didn’t pressure you for details on things you weren’t ready to share yet. Unlike Historia or Ymir, who seemed to lack the definition of boundaries and privacy.

Opposingly, Mikasa’s refusal to push you for details sometimes drove you crazy. It made you spill everything to her in a short span of time, sometimes even offering up too much information. You, Eren and Armin had discussed if it was a possibility that it was just a tactic she used to get people to open up, as they too would fall victim to Mikasa’s extreme “Minding My Business” attitude. Historia had once just chalked it up to her being an Aquarius.

You both waved goodbye to each other and agreed to meet up at the dorm later for a movie night. Maybe later you would confess to the jacket’s rightful owner, but for now you figured you should get the action of returning it over with first. You sighed and began the walk to the library, where said owner was awaiting your for round three of your driving lessons.

-

Earlier that day, Porco was rubbing lotion over his freshly washed arms in the Paradis boy’s soccer team assigned locker room when he overheard a conversation that made him feel emotions he couldn’t begin to understand.

“Mikasa’s roommate?” He heard someone clarify.

Porco’s eyes darted to the bench, where Reiner Braun and a few of the other soccer players were sitting drying off from their showers. Reiner nodded in response, and Porco realized he had identified the question receiver.

“Well, what about her?” Bertholdt asked. He was Reiner’s best friend, but he was also close to Porco, as they went to the same schools all their life.

Porco found himself drawn to the conversation, and even after he applied his skin care (Porco may be an athlete, but he was adamantly against having dry skin), he lingered, ears perked up to their conversation.

“Nothin’. I just saw her the other day, and thought she looked cool, is all.” Reiner shrugged, picking up his towel and rubbing his still damp hair with it. He had seen Porco stiffen out of the corner of his eyes, and decided against sharing what he really thought.

He noticed Porco’s shoulders slump at his reply, and made a mental note to speak about it with him later, when it was more private. As for now, he returned to the conversation he had started.

“Yeah, Y/N’s nice. She’s in my sociology class.” Onyankopon remarked.

Porco was having trouble keeping his composure. He wanted to jump up and ask, What are you talking about Y/N for? But he refrained from doing so. Instead, he shook his hair, sending water droplets flying. He opened his locker door, hoping to appear unconcerned with their subject matter, or preoccupied with fixing his hair. He ran his fingers through it, his brow furrowed in mock concentration.

“Y/N,” He heard Reiner repeat to himself. “That’s a nice name.”

Porco mentally snorted. Since when was that a nice name? It’s literally just Y/N. What a weird ass comment. But there’s Reiner for you, being a weirdo. Always has been, ever since we were kids.

It’s not that Porco had anything against Reiner specifically, he just found almost everything Reiner did to be annoying. And right now was no exception, especially the way he was trying to put on a nonchalant façade, acting uninterested in you, even though Porco was pretty sure he was the one who had just brought you up, unprovoked. Or maybe there was provocation.

Porco wasn’t stupid, or blind, no matter if you believed him to be. He saw the way you seemed to draw attention from others, unassumingly. He was past the point in denying you were attractive, but he would never publicly admit that of course.

He was just surprised that other people saw it, too. And now that Reiner was bringing you up, presumably to just ask about you, he felt… odd. He didn’t know how to explain the burning feeling in his chest, or the growing anger that felt like steam coming out of his ears. He couldn’t identify exactly what it was. Whenever he spoke to Reiner for more than a few seconds, feelings of anger and irritation were normal for Porco to experience. But this was unfamiliar to him. He shut his locker door slowly, and shook his head, like that would shake the weird sensation from his mind and body.

“Didn’t see you there, Galliard.” Onyankopon called.

Porco barely heard him, too distracted with the turbulence within his mind to formulate a coherent response. Instead, he opted for a simple nod in Onyankopon’s direction.

His distraction didn’t go unnoticed, as Reiner knew him well enough to detect the shift in his mood.

“You gonna put a shirt on, bro?” Colt Grice, his roommate, teased.

Porco gave him a small smirk in return. “And disappoint my admirers? Nah, I’m good.” The boys in the room laughed, but Reiner noticed how Porco’s energy wasn’t entirely in the delivery of the joke. He seemed distraught, and Reiner wondered what could have caused him so much distress.

-

Later, in the cafeteria at their usual lunch table, Reiner mentioned you again, much to Porco’s disdain.

Reiner cleared his throat, bringing the attention of the group consisting of Bertholdt, Niccolo, Annie, and Pieck to him. “So, does anyone know Y/N L/N? Mikasa Ackerman’s roommate?”

“Hm! I do, actually!” Pieck held a finger up, swallowing the bite of salad she had in her mouth. “She’s in most of my classes. A sweetheart.”

Bertholdt nodded. “Like I told you earlier, she’s pretty cool. On the quiet side, though.”

Porco couldn’t believe what he was hearing. You? Quiet? He scoffed, causing them to face him.

“What?” Pieck questioned him.

Porco shook his head, stabbing his fork through the piece of fruit he was currently consuming. “Nothin’.”

They disregarded him, resuming their conversation. They were used to Porco’s behavior by now, and were pros at maintaining the flow of conversation despite various instances where he would add unhelpful adlibs or comments.

“What about her?” Pieck continued. She nudged Annie, who was not paying attention, absentmindedly twirling a string of pasta with her fork.

Porco chose that moment to analyze Reiner’s reaction. He noticed the way his face heated up slightly, and how he nervously ran a hand through his hair.

“Well… I think she’s cute.” Reiner confessed.

Porco dropped his fork, and he was pretty sure his gaping mouth displayed the surprise he felt perfectly. And worst of all, that awful feeling he had felt in the locker room returned with a vengeance.

He didn’t have much time to dwell on it, though, because Pieck was busy squealing. It had been a while since Reiner had dated, apparently, and the news that he was interested in someone was exciting to her. Unfortunately for him, that someone was You, and he wasn’t sure how to feel about it.

He didn’t like to be emotional, and he hated feelings. He hated thinking about anything that would make him sad, or uncomfortable, or even sappy. That’s just the way Porco was, and he didn’t want that to change. Yet, the thought of you and Reiner did something to Porco that he couldn’t quite explain. And he worried that if he didn’t figure out this feeling and squash it soon, it would affect how you two interacted.

And interacting you were. It was rare that you two didn’t speak, whether it was a passive aggressive remark as you passed each other in the hallway, or a rude text from you reminding him to not forget your driving lesson, or vice versa where he texted you to let you know that he expected his share of baked goods. You didn’t really converse past surface level on a regular day, but it was on certain days that you would break through the surface, even just a little bit, that Porco would begin to feel like maybe, just maybe, you weren’t so bad.

So why was the thought of Reiner taking you out so revolting?

“Hey, y’all!” Porco heard the high pitched voice belonging to Hitch approach the table. “What’re you talking about?” She sat down, setting her tray besides Pieck.

Pieck giggled. “Reiner here has a crush.”

Hitch made sounds of excitement, gushing with Pieck. “Well, who is it?” She insisted.

Reiner rolled his eyes, yet the smirk on his lips was proof to Porco he was enjoying the attention. Still, he didn’t offer up your name, so Pieck stepped up, whispering your name to Hitch.

“Ooh, Reiner.” Hitch nodded, sharing a look with Pieck. “So when did this occur?”

“I wouldn’t say crush. And honestly, I just noticed her the other day. It’s not a big deal.” Reiner chuckled, then bit into his hamburger, which Porco found disgusting. There was no way the cafeteria meat was edible.

But what really grated Porco’s nerves was what Reiner said. How did he just notice you? What a mediocre start he was getting off to.

Hitch rolled her eyes. “Of course it’s a big deal. But I say you should go for it. Y/N seems perky. Although, I will say she gives off the impression she might be… let’s just say awkward around guys.”

Before Porco could register what he was saying, the words were already slipping out of his mouth. “And what’s wrong with that?”

The chatter grew quiet as all pairs of eyes turned to him. They stared at him in confused silence, unsure if they had heard correctly.

Pieck was the first to break the silence. “I’m sorry, did you just defend Y/N?”

Porco grimaced. “No, geez. I’m just sayin’. There’s nothing wrong with being shy around guys. It’s better than throwing yourself at everyone.”

Hitch visibly reddened at his words, embarrassed. Porco wasn’t directly aiming his response at her, but he might as well have. Hitch was known for being somewhat promiscuous. She wasn’t ashamed by it, and Porco was also a firm believer of not slut-shaming. But Hitch couldn’t deny that when it came to meaningful relationships, it was difficult for her to form them. Not on account of her flirty nature, but just that she never seemed to choose the correct guys for her.

“I-I just meant like, she might be a bit difficult to get to know.” Hitch retracted. “But she’s still so nice, and really perky.”

Pieck, however, was still stuck on Porco’s initial response. “I still can’t get over the fact that you’re defending Y/N. Weren’t you just calling her uptight a few weeks ago?”

“Yeah, but that was before-“ Porco cut himself off. Bertholdt and Niccolo shared a look that Porco couldn’t decipher.

“Before what?” Bertholdt waded into the tense conversation, attempting to pull an answer from Porco.

“Nothin’. I’m just teaching her how to drive a stick. So I guess I’m just used to her by now.” Porco shrugged. He moved the fruit in his cup around with his fork, no longer interested in the colorful pieces. This conversation was causing a knot to form in his stomach. He wanted nothing more than to just disappear, or at least for the time to become 2 o’clock so he could meet you for your lesson.

Why was that even a thought? He was for sure going insane. Not only did he just declare he didn’t hate you publicly, he was actually not dreading seeing you. It was probably just the brownies you made him.

“You are?!” Pieck exclaimed. “That’s news to me!”

Porco winced and held up a finger to his ear, signaling she was too loud. “It’s whatever. Just don’t call her perky. Because she’s not.”

“It’s not like it’s a personal attack against her, dude.” Annie spoke up.

Niccolo nodded in agreement. “We don’t know her that well, man. It’s not a bad thing.”

“Then don’t make assumptions.” Porco snapped.

“What is with you today? Are you feeling sick? Do you hear yourself right now?” Pieck dramatically reached across the table to hold a hand up to his forehead. He swatted her hand away, shooting her a glare.

“I’m fine. I’m just saying, too.” He meant to come off as nonchalant, but his clenched jaw and his hand subconsciously crushing the fruit cup gave away the opposite impression.

“Well, okay then.” Pieck held her palms up, conveying she was done with the interrogation. “We’ll just take your word for it.”

“Awesome.” Porco mumbled under his breath.

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Reiner watching him as the rest of the table resumed casual conversation about how their midterm season was going. He actively avoided eye contact in hopes that Reiner would drop it and not decide to do something stupid like start a conversation with him about the subject they had just moved past.

Much to his misfortune, when the table and Porco got up to bid their goodbyes and head to their respective classes or schedule, Reiner cornered him at the exit.

“Galliard,” He held a large palm out, stopping Porco in his tracks. He scowled up at Reiner, since Reiner was a few inches taller.

“Can I have a word?”

‘CaN I hAvE a WOrd?’ Porco’s internal monologue mocked. Old man. Who even says that anymore? Just speak, bro.

Aloud, Porco simply replied, “Yeah?”

Reiner adjusted the strap of his backpack on his shoulder. Porco noticed how ridiculous it looked, and vowed to use both straps since then. “So, you know Y/N?”

Porco’s jaw clenched. “Obviously.”

Reiner continued, unphased by Porco’s clear disdain. “Would you mind, uh,” He chuckled awkwardly, as he had never asked anyone for a favor like this. “Would you mind putting a word in for me?” He finished.

Porco blinked. He wasn’t sure if he had heard that correctly. “You want me to what?”

Reiner blushed. He leaned in, as if he was sharing something personal, and clarified. “Could you just, you know- hype me up to her? I don’t wanna go in there blind. And you mentioned you were giving her lessons, so I was just wonderin’ if you’d help me out here.”

Porco wasn’t sure if the increasing pressure behind his eyes was due to Reiner’s request or Reiner in general. He resisted the urge to walk away without responding.

He was mulling it over so much, his eye twitched. Reiner uncomfortably shifted his weight from one foot to another, having noticed Porco’s hesitation. He cleared his throat. “Oh, well if you guys have something going on then I understand and it really isn’t my intention to intrude-”

Porco snapped his head to look at Reiner directly. “What the hell? No. Y/N and I aren’t anything besides enemies. We don’t even like each other as friends.”

Even though Porco said it, he felt the exact opposite internally. He hadn’t even realized when he had grown to tolerate you. He knew it wasn’t truthful, but his pride wouldn’t allow him to express that to Reiner before it was too late.

“Oh,” Reiner’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Okay, well I just thought-”

“You thought wrong.” Porco cut him off, a grimace appearing. “But yeah, I’ll tell her.” He grumbled, hoping his agreement would end the conversation.

Reiner clapped a large hand on Porco’s shoulder. “Great, man, thanks! I appreciate it.”

Porco grunted in agreement, making an excuse about how he had something to do to quickly shuffle out of the cafeteria and put as much distance between Reiner and him as possible.

He didn’t understand what was going on with himself. Why did Reiner’s favor bother him so deeply?

He wrote it off as just his reluctance to do favors for anyone. Yet he completely disregarded that he was en route to do you a favor as well, but perhaps he was just too blind (or in denial) to see that.

-

“Galliard,” you greeted breathlessly when you entered his car. “You’re only two minutes late, congrats.”

Actually, Porco was five minutes early, the anticipation of beginning the lesson causing him to leave his dorm early. But then he realized he might appear too eager, or as if he actually enjoyed your presence, and he decided to linger behind, for two exact minutes. He had hoped you wouldn’t notice, and that he wouldn’t appear suspicious, but he should’ve known you enough that you would time him.

Porco huffed. “At least I showed up this time.”

You rolled your eyes good naturedly, reaching behind you to secure your seatbelt. “You always show up, though.”

“Well, one of these days I might not.” He muttered.

You gave him a look of disbelief. Whether either of you wanted to admit it, you were both dedicated to fulfilling the mission that had brought you two together in the first place.

It was odd how it was easy for you to let your façade of put togetherness melt away when you got into the car with Porco. You hadn’t seen him since the whole period fiasco, but it was as if nothing had ever happened, the way you resumed your usual banter and arguments. You didn’t have to pretend you liked each other, and you knew Porco could handle your teasing and your honest opinion. So the idea of him leaving you hanging one day was comical to you, because you figured if he would have ditched you  he would have by now. Any ulterior motives hadn’t come to light, and you had begun to sense that Porco was genuinely trying to help you. (You would never outright admit that, though.)

“Here’s your jacket, by the way. I washed it, and got rid of that awful cologne stench of yours.” Your nose wrinkled, as if recalling the scent.

He rolled his eyes, but accepted the jacket. “That’s Christian Dior you’re insulting.”

“Okay, well his smell sucks.” You dug into your bag and tossed him the bag of weekly sweets you made him in exchange for his unorthodox instruction. “Decided to experiment with filling, so let’s see how you like those.” You explained. Another thing you appreciated- Porco was your willing test subject for the baked goods you made. You couldn’t cook to save your life, but baking was a walk in the park for you. You figured it had more to do with the aesthetic aspect and less the components that intrigued you.

Porco made an appreciative sound, glad to indulge in the muffins you made. He sunk his teeth in without a second thought, and after chewing on it for a second he let out a satisfied sigh.

You beamed. “You liked it?”

Porco licked some frosting off his lips, pointedly dragging his answer out. Your eyes unconsciously flickered to his lips when he did so, but quickly darted back up to his eyes, a rosy tint covering the bridge of your nose.

“They were awful, as usual.” Porco replied with a smile.

You frowned. “Oh, I see. ‘Guess I’ll just stop bringing stuff, then.”

“No, no! Merely a joke.” Porco exclaimed. You cackled, to which Porco shook his head.

“You sound like a witch.”

He liked to bully you for your laugh, but you never let it phase you. After all, you knew a few qualities about Porco that you liked to pick at him for as well. For example, when he got embarrassed his voice raised a few octaves, or that he woke up twenty minutes earlier to do his hair.

“Whatever, let’s get this over with.” he grunted, and you both exited the car to switch seats, Porco purposely locking the driver’s door to frustrate you. He finally opened it after a minute, and he was near tears when you entered the car from laughing at your reaction.

Once inside, you began with changing the gear, having gotten the hang of it after your second lesson. You then began the standard drive in a circle around the lot that Porco had instructed you to begin with to master turns.

“So far, so good, newb.” Porco nodded, shoving another muffin in his mouth. He let out a sound of enjoyment, raising his eyes to the car’s ceiling. “Heavenly. I’m gonna gain a hundred pounds soon.” He mumbled through the bread.

You chuckled, your hands slightly turning the wheel. You had a bad habit of harshly turning it before, but with Porco’s various scoldings and cries of terror, you acitvely worked on steering with a lighter touch.

You were doing good so far, weaving in circles around the fairly vacant lot, until a car began reversing out of a parking spot.

“Uh.. Porco?” He was scrolling through his timeline, liking sports tweets and not paying attention. “There’s a car pulling out, how do I reverse the car again?”

Porco looked up, spotting the source of confusion. “Don’t reverse it, just stop it.”

Your palms grew sweaty. “O-okay,” You moved to change the gear, but the car wouldn’t budge. You took your foot off the accelerator, but found the car wasn’t stopping.

“It’s not stopping.” You announced in a panicked voice.

“Shit, it might stall.” Porco cursed under his breath. “Okay, just slowly release the brake on my count, and I’ll hold the gear. It’s tricky.” The car was inching forward, too close to the rear end of the other car for your liking. Why did people reverse out of parking spotsso slowly?

“Now.” Before you could overthink it, Porco’s hand was enveloping yours and your foot was coming off the brake in one smooth, fluid motion.  The car stopped just in time, with little to no jolt, and the reversing car left the parking lot. Porco let out a sigh of relief, and before he knew it you had squealed in excitement, immediately throwing your arms around Porco’s neck.

Porco stiffened, but his hand found its way to your upper back, patting it softly.

“I did it! I stopped the car without stalling!” You excitedly cried.

Porco chuckled. The smell of your shampoo filled his nostrils, and he closed his eyes, basking in it for a moment.

You pulled away, still chattering about who knows what. But Porco’s ears were still ringing, and he felt like the world around him grew blurry. You hadn’t even thought about it, the way you so casually made contact with him. And he hadn’t faltered for too long in reciprocating.

His knees grew weak, and he hoped that he was able to keep the wobble out of his voice before you spoke again.

“And I didn’t think we would stop in time! I swear I literally felt us impacting the other one. But we didn’t! We did it!” You laughed gleefully.

All Porco could choke out was a half hearted chuckle. “Y-yeah, you used your brain for once.”

You held your hands up. “I did! I didn’t freeze!”

Porco couldn’t meet your gaze for some reason, as the thought of keeping eye contact with you suddenly made him so, utterly, nervous.

You noticed his stare shift downwards, and your eyes caught sight of his palm resting on yours still. You glanced at it, then looked away quickly, feeling the heat rising in your body furiously.

When you looked away, Porco glanced at you, then at your hands. You weren’t looking at him, the tense silence suddenly falling like a heavy blanket over you two. His gaze lingered a second more, and then he hesitantly lifted his palm away, shoving it into his jacket pocket.

“S-so,” He winced at his visible voice crack. “Do you want to try driving on the street now? Since you know how to brake now?”

“Sure,” you responded, hoping your voice wouldn’t give away how your heart pounded. “Where to?”

Porco’s brow furrowed in thought. “Do you know the duck park?”

You nodded. The duck park was pretty self explanatory, referring to a park a block or so away from campus that a multitude of ducks resided. “You want me to go there?”

Porco shrugged. “Only if you feel ready.”

Did you ever. You smirked, changing the gear and practically sped out of the lot, making Porco grip the visor handle and shoot you a look of disapproval.

You arrived at the park, and pulled into a space. Porco had to help guide you a few instances, which meant he placed his hand on yours a few more times. At first, you had to resist the urge to startle, but after the second time you had grown used to feeling his rough calluses from soccer playing on your hand. It was like your hands molded, working in perfect unison. But once you had parked, Porco removed your hand and neither of you acknowledged it.

“That duck looks like Armin.” You giggled, pointing at a blonde duck with a fluff of hair on its head.

Porco exhaled, shaking his head. “You’re friends with Armin, huh?”

You nodded. “Yeah, you?”

Porco shrugged. “I’m better friends with Eren. But Armin’s chill, too.”

You snorted. Armin was nice, but chill was not an adjective you would use to describe your paranoid, nerdy friend. “I wouldn’t say he’s chill, but he’s smart, I’ll give him that.”

“What about Eren?” he questioned.

You shrugged. “What about him? You know how Eren is.”

“Well, I don’t know. Is there anything beyond friendship with him?”

You shot him a look of confusion. “Uh, of course not. Why’re you asking me this?”

Porco visibly grew flustered at your response. He looked out the window, watching a family of ducklings walk to the pond. He looked at you from the corner of his eye, attempting to gauge your emotions before replying.

“Can’t a guy just wonder?”

You stared at him, your facial expression neutral. “That’s… an odd thing to wonder.”

He scoffed. “Not really.”

You nodded, in protest. “Yes. That’s like me asking you about your friendship with Pieck.”

Porco tsked. “Pieck and I are only friends.”

“Exactly.” You crossed your arms.

Porco mirrored you. “Yeah, exactly.”

As if he wasn’t the one that brought the subject of relationships up.

“Whatever.” He mumbled.

Once you drove back to the lot (Porco barely had to give you instruction, thankfully) you thanked Porco once more for helping, and once more he brushed your thanks off, grumbling a curt “Don’t mention it. Seriously. Shut up.” You had gotten out of the car and prepared to walk home, when Porco insisted he drop you off.

“We literally live in the same building. Stop being difficult, L/N.” He insisted.

You huffed. “No, I want to walk. I already use your car too much.”

Porco groaned in frustration. “Then me driving us a block won’t hurt.”

You waved him off, turning to walk away. “Thanks, but no thanks, Galliard. I hate owing you enough.”

You heard a car door shut, and the car beep. Then, harsh running steps on the gravel as Porco rushed to catch up with you.

“What’re you doing, Galliard?” You snapped.

Porco’s lips tugged upwards into his unmistakable smirk. “Walkin’. What? Is that a crime? You own the sidewalk?”

You glowered at him. “Yeah, well do you have to walk so close?”

“Yeah, I do, actually.”

“Fine,” You retorted. “Fine by me.”

“Great, I wasn’t askin’.”

You stopped your steady pace, and turned to face him, but found him much closer to you than what you were expecting. He was only a step of distance from you, so much that when you looked up you could almost hit his chest with your nose.

Unconsciously, your eyes flitted to his lips, pink and full from the cold, set in a lazy smile. His eyes glinted mischievously, and you realized he found enjoyment in messing with you.

Porco was smiling at you mockingly, but when he saw your eyes linger on his lips for just a fraction of a second too long, his smile melted away. His eyes scanned yours, searching for what he hoped wasn’t him looking too deeply into your actions.

“Eyes up here, L/N.” he whispered in a husky voice.

When you matched his eye contact, unwavering, and almost challenging, he clenched his jaw and swallowed, suddenly put on edge.

You bit your lip, at a loss for words. Porco watched you, at the way your lip tucked in between your teeth looked, and he found it harder to maintain his steady composure. For the umpteemth time, he felt a flurry of emotions he couldn’t quite place- but one thing was becoming increasingly clear; he wanted nothing more in that moment than to close the distance and press his lips against yours, if only to try how you felt just once.

And you didn’t comprehend why it had become increasingly harder to focus on Porco’s eyes, or why you suddenly wanted to know what his lips on yours would feel. But worst of all, him addressing you in the way you claimed to hate the most no longer bothered you.

But the moment was broken when Reiner’s voice rang out, causing you both to look away and shuffle a few feet farther apart.

“Galliard!” Reiner had called out.

Porco fought the urge to curse under his breath. “Oh, hey.” he replied coolly, doing the signature guy handshake where they gave a side hug then a slide of their fists. “This is Reiner.” He told you, almost reluctantly.

“Hi, Y/N.” You smiled, extending your hand. Reiner shook it, shooting you a wide grin.

“Nice to meet you formally, Y/N. I was actually just talking with Porco about you.” He chuckled, brushing his hair back. “I don’t know if he mentioned it.”

Your face morphed in confusion. “Oh, no, he did not, actually.” You chuckled somewhat awkwardly, but not without shooting a pointed glare at Porco.

Porco simply shrugged. “I forgot. Just didn’t come up.”

You noticed Reiner give him a look you couldn’t decipher before turning back to you. “Ah, that’s just Galliard. Well, not to sound weird or anything-” He chuckled. “But, um, I’ve seen you around. And well, I was just wondering if you’d be interested in letting me take you out to dinner, or something.” He finished with a small shrug.

You were astonished. Here was this, this man asking you on a date. He had seen you and decided to ask about you, to Porco no less.

You had never experienced someone coming up to you and asking you out, or even hitting on you. You had only ever been on one “date” your entire life, and that was in high school, and the date never led to anything more. Reiner was handsome, and he seemed nice enough, and respectful. He was also confident, his composure unshaken even as you hesitated for a second longer than he was used to.

So why was it so hard for you to accept?

“I-Sure.” You choked out after some deliberation and an uncomfortable amount of silence that gave Porco second hand embarrassment.

Reiner cocked an eyebrow. “Yeah?”

You swallowed, nodding. You felt your face burning, and you were sure you were the same shade of a tomato, Reiner’s tone of voice making you undeniably flustered. “Yes.” You nodded more firmly.

Reiner shot you a dazzling smile. “Great! If you’ll give me your number, maybe we can set up a day?”

You wordlessly nodded, and the starstruck look in your eyes caused Porco to clench his jaw and look away, not wanting to witness your ridiculous change in demeanor.

He continued his sulking as you and Reiner exchanged information, offering a curt chuckle at Reiner’s commentary every once in a while. You giggled at Reiner’s charm, shyly avoiding eye contact with the taller blonde as he imputed his number into your phone, adding a sly smiley face next to his contact name.

After what seemed like a few minutes too long, you and Reiner agreed to keep in contact and he walked away, patting Porco’s shoulder again and shooting you a wink.

Once Reiner was gone, Porco turned to you, scoffing once he spotted your swooning expression.

“Seriously?” He chided.

You snapped out of your awe-struck stupor, glaring at the rude boy who had interrupted your replay of the previous minutes. You were still flabbergasted. Someone, a handsome man had just asked you out- and he actually seemed respectable! You were on the moon, already planning what you’d wear and how you would do your hair, now that your straightener was broken.

You frowned at the memory of your straightener breaking. You secretly wondered if using the clothing iron would work.

“What?” you responded to Porco. He was facing you, an incredulous look on his sculpted features. You noticed how the tip of his nose was red, the chilly air having nipped at it all the while you were outside. He looked wholesome, with his jacket zipped all the way up and his scarf covering his chin.

Reiner rolled his eyes. “Reiner Braun? Of all people?”

Your eyebrows furrowed in a deep scowl at his remark. “What’s your problem?”

Porco scoffed in response, shoving his hands in his pockets. “Nothing, I’m just sayin’.” He began walking, leaving you behind.

You huffed, rushing after him. “Uh, aren’t you supposed to be walking with me?” You called.

He slowed his pace, not looking back at you. “You can keep up, can’t you?”

You caught up with him, shoving him lightly. “Why don’t you like Reiner?”

Porco should’ve known you would’ve bugged him about his vague response. You were always so persistent. He shrugged, hoping the reaction wouldn’t come off as anything but nonchalant.

“I don’t dislike Reiner, he’s my teammate.”

“Team mate doesn’t mean you like them.” You argued.

Porco grunted, fighting back the urge to exclaim in frustration. “Okay, L/N, Reiner is my friend. Happy?”

“Are you happy? You seem mad Reiner, and I quote, ‘of all people’ asked me out? Like, who would you prefer ask me out?”

Porco stiffened.

After a pause, he snickered humorlessly. “No one. I don’t think anyone can deal with you.”

Your snarky laugh rang out. “That’s rich. I don’t think anyone can deal with you, much less your awful sense of fashion.”

Porco reddened. “At least I can fucking drive.”

“Yeah, and how many dates has that gotten you?”  You snapped.

Porco stopped in his tracks, causing you to slip and grab onto the back of his arm haphazardly. He was fuming, nostrils flaring and his temple twitching, You were sure if he was a cartoon, steam would be emitting from his head.

“I get plenty.” He snarled. “Let’s just see if Reiner can put up with you.”

You still couldn’t let it go. “Why are you so concerned about Reiner?” You removed your hand from his arm, placing it on your hip.

“I just think there’s more out there than Reiner.” He grumbled, kicking a rock.

You were glowering at him. Porco knew he was acting like a jerk, and he knew he was only pushing you away. He just couldn’t help the feeling of rage inside of him. He didn’t understand why you could possibly be the one to cause him this ugly feeling.

“Like what? Who else would ask me out?” You exclaimed. “You’re so confusing!”

“I’m confusing?” Porco cried. “You’re the one confusing me!” He waved his arms frantically, the conversation overwhelming him.

“What?” You yelled, puzzled.

Porco gulped. He knew by now that whenever he spoke with you, rage overtook him and he blurted whatever came to mind. Yet he had never been so careless as to just put his thoughts out there. Did he think Reiner was a good match for you? No. DId he regret telling you that? Also no. But telling you about what you made him feel? That was a line Porco hadn’t realized he was willing to cross. He also didn’t expect how relieving getting it out in the open would feel. “I said what I said.” He murmured.

You blinked slowly. “Yeah, and what exactly would that be?”

“I said,” Porco repeated, taking a step closer to you. “You confuse me.”

“Yeah, but what the hell is that supposed to mean?” You bickered.

“It means, for some reason I don’t actually find you intolerable right now, and for some other strange reason I also want to kiss you.” He explained with a sigh.

Your mouth fell open in shock and mild terror. You couldn’t believe what had just left Porco’s mouth. “You want to kiss me?” You clarified, hoping it was a joke. But so far many things Porco has done that you thought were merely jokes were actually not, so you weren’t too positive about the outcome.

Porco swallowed. He gave an almost imperceptible nod, then turned to the side, hoping his blush would be hidden from your view.

Your mouth opened and closed, unable to form words to express the jumble of thoughts in your brain. You felt your brain screeching at you to run, but a small part of you wondered what would be the harm in indulging it. After all, college was supposed to be fun, wasn’t it? And again, you found yourself unable to recognize when anything having to do with Porco would be considered fun.

Porco’s hand suddenly touched your jaw, but you were too stunned to react. He closed your mouth by pushing upwards until your chin was no longer on the floor.

“You’re gaping.” He deadpanned.

You didn’t respond, and Porco’s hand lingered. In contrast to the frosty air around you, his hand was warm, and you almost closed your eyes, fighting against the urge to lean into his touch which felt so comforting in the cold. His thumb rubbed your cheek in an excruciatingly slow way, and you felt your knees shake from the anticipation of what would happen next.

“If you want to kiss me so bad, why don’t you just do it?” You whispered. The snark you meant to convey wasn’t apparent in your tone, and Porco’s raised eyebrow was proof he didn’t buy your indifference.

“You want that?” He questioned.

Your throat felt dry, and you felt your breath hitch in your throat. “I didn’t say I was opposed. I just think you’re all talk.”

Porco smirked, removing his hand from your face. The sudden lack of warmth caused you to shiver. “Yeah? I’m all talk?”

You nodded with as much conviction as you could muster. “I don’t know what you’re so confused about, but if you’re so keen on figuring it out, here’s your chance. And I know you won’t take it, because you’re all talk.”

“Oh, God. Y/N, shut up.”

“Nah, you shut up-”

Your sentence was cut short, because Porco slammed his lips onto yours, both hands returning this time to cup your face. You remained frozen in place, your breath hitched in your throat. Your hands were limp at your sides, unsure of what to do or if you were awake. Because if you were, that meant that Porco… Porco Galliard, was kissing you.

Porco Galliard was kissing you.

And he wasn’t too bad at it. He was taller than you, so you had to slightly lean your head back to reach him. His lips moved urgently and passionately against yours, feverishly hot in comparison to the harsh winter air. Your ears were ringing, and your mind was incoherently screaming, yet the kiss felt… lovely. Sweet, almost. You could feel the lingering taste of your cupcakes on his lips, and even when he pulled away, you felt it on your lips.

Breathlessly, you both regarded each other. His hands slowly fell from your face to his sides.

Your mind went blank, and when you opened your mouth to speak, to thank him, or acknowledge him, anything really, nothing came out, Porco watched you expectantly with his cheeks flushed, but when no words left you, his cheeky smirk slowly disappeared.

“You didn’t kiss back.” He stated, the hurt he felt evident in his voice.

You blinked rapidly, snapping back into reality. “Sorry, I-I was just-”
“Don’t apologize.” He interrupted, laughing nervously. His blush intensified, all the way down to his neck as he looked to the side and combed a hand through his hair. “It was…I was just-”

“No, I-I did. Want to.” You stammered.

“You did?” Porco repeated, somewhat in disbelief.

In response, you nodded shyly. Porco regarded you, observing your unusual bashful composure. Before he could let himself overthink it, he leaned in once more, and delicately placed his lips atop of yours, a stark contrast to his previous kiss.

This time, however, you kissed back, somewhat harsher than expected, but slowing your pace once Porco caught up and matched you. You moved in unison, your hands cautiously making their way to his chest and laying them there, and Porco’s hand found its way to your waist.

After you ran out of breath, you separated, somewhat dizzy, yet the feeling of content washed over you.

“See?” Your voice wavered. You took a step back, wanting to put as much distance between you and Porco as possible. “It was nothing.”

Even as you said it, you found a hard time believing it.

Porco stared at you, not saying anything which made your stomach flip. “Yeah.” He said after a while.

You exhaled. “So, I guess that figured it out for you, right?” You chuckled nervously.

Porco simply glanced at you, before turning back to face in front of him. You had both resumed the walk to the dorms. “Yep.” He agreed, albeit halfheartedly.

“Um, I think I can take it from here.” You blocked his path. “Thanks, though.”

His nose scrunched at the suggestion. “It’s dark out, are you sure?”

You waved your hand, glancing back at the short walk you had left. “It’ll be fine.”

Porco glared at you. “Y/N, it’s a short walk.”

“Exactly! No need to follow me. Thank you, though. I have so much homework to do. So I guess I’ll see you later, bye!” You barely let Porco get a word in, as he tried to cut you off and insist on walking you the rest of the way. Before he could argue more, you were turning on your heel and running to the dorms, leaving behind a dazed Porco.

Chapter Text

“𝗗𝗢 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗡𝗞 𝗪𝗘 𝗖𝗔𝗡 𝗦𝗞𝗜𝗣 𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗦 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞?”

Porco shifted uncomfortably. He was in the cafeteria, eating breakfast when you ziplined toward him. He blinked a few times, the question you asked lingering in the air as he took the time to process

“Huh?” He finally responded eloquently.

You frowned. “I asked if we could skip this week? I… Thursday’s my only day off. And… I’m going to be busy.”

Porco raised an eyebrow. “Busy? Doin’ what?” He chewed on a hashbrown, maintaining eye contact with you. “You tryin’ to avoid me?”

You blushed. You hadn’t wanted to tell him all the details, especially since this was the first time you saw him after… the incident. And you didn’t know how the incident would even begin to affect you both. “No! Just hangin’ with a friend.” You lied.

Porco wasn’t buying it. He eyed you suspiciously, his silence making you uncomfortable and causing you to tug at your skirt awkwardly. You cleared your throat after he didn’t respond, crimson washing over your features.

Porco nodded curtly. “Fine with me.”

“Okay, thanks, Galliard. I appreciate it-”

“L/N, what’d I say about making things weird? Just say thanks and go.” He rolled his eyes teasingly.

You sighed. “Right, sorry. See you then.”

You turned to walk away, when Porco called out to you, bringing you back to his attention.

“So is this friend Reiner?”

You could hear the slight irritation in his tone, and you wondered if he was trying to provoke you, or genuinely interested. You figured now might as well be a time to address it.

You bit your lip anxiously, avoiding his cold glare. “Not that it’s any of your business, but yeah, he is.”

Porco snorted. “Figured. And how is it not my business? You’re-” He cut himself off abruptly. Attempting to play his slip off, he brushed a hand through his hair and chuckled sarcastically. “You’re ‘hangin’ out’ with my friend. I think I’d deserve to know who you’re blowing me off for.”

Your eyebrows furrowed together in confusion and slight irritation. “I’m not blowing you off, I’m ‘blowing’ our lessons off, for one day. And weren’t you just calling Reiner your teammate?”

Porco shrugged, but you could tell from the way that he stabbed through his eggs with his fork that he was bothered. “Right.”

You huffed. “Whatever, I’ll text you later. I gotta go to class.”

Porco’s nose scrunched as he checked his watch, which read 7:40 A.M., an ungodly hour according to him. “This early? Aren’t you gonna eat?”

You shook your head. “Nah, I’ll just get cookies from the vending machine.”

A flashback of your beat up shoes passed through his mind. “You don’t want anything from the cafeteria?”

You instantly moved to shake your head no, but you hesitated slightly. Truthfully, your stomach was rumbling, and you were pretty sure your bad mood was partly due to hunger. Porco caught your slightly doubtful expression, and stood up, crumpling his napkin up. “C’mon, you can’t go to class without eating.”

He was leading you to the line before you could protest, as he was sure you would try, and you were forced to follow behind his lean back. From behind, you admired Porco’s formed figure, wondering how many hours at the gym it took him to achieve this state. He glanced behind his shoulder at you, and you quickly looked away.

“You don’t have to get me anything, Porco.” You whispered to him once you arrived at the line.

Porco waved his hand at you dismissively. “Would you shut up?”

You noticed the difference in the way he said it this time, as opposed to the first lesson you had with him. He said it almost with affection, although you supposed that was an odd thing to say to someone you cared about.

He ordered for you, not even bothering to ask what you’d like. He knew that if he did, you would refuse to tell him or make it more difficult than what it was supposed to be. You hissed at him to let you pay, but he put a large hand over your wallet, blocking you from paying the worker. He pulled out his wallet from his back pocket, and opened it, picking a ten dollar bill and handing it over to the employee.

Once you got your breakfast sandwich and orange juice (for some reason he knew you preferred orange over apple?), Porco walked you to his previous table, which remained unoccupied.

“Thank you.” You crossed your arms. “But you need to stop buying me crap.”

“Don’t know what you’re talking about. And besides, cookies don’t count as breakfast.” Porco quipped.

You sighed in exasperation. You forgot he had a stupid rule where you weren’t allowed to mention the small gestures of kindness he did for you. And now that you thought about it, the number of them seemed to grow…

“Eat. Your food’s gonna get cold, and I already paid for it.” Porco pointed at the sandwich. You glared at him, taking a bite out of the corner.

You were surprised at how hungry you actually were. You tore into it, barley uttering a word to Porco. He simply watched you eat, an amused smirk on his face as he watched you tear the sandwich to pieces. For someone who claimed they weren’t hungry, you were ravenous. You didn’t know if it was the fact that you were starving, or that Porco paid for you, but as far as cafeteria food went, it wasn’t that bad.

“Thank you.” You mumbled after you finished. You leaned back in your chair, patting your stomach. You felt absolutely bloated, like an anaconda who had just devoured an army of mice.

Porco chuckled. “That good?”

You hummed. “That good.”

You both sat in silence for a bit, when Porco suddenly spoke in a soft tone. “So… two days ago..”

Your eyes widened. You had planned on speaking about it… eventually… someday. But here? Now? In the middle of the cafeteria? You were caught off guard, and you wondered if Porco’s tactic was to disarm you with food before approaching the subject.

“Yeah?” you chuckled nervously.

“Um,” he scratched his neck. This was excruciating for him. Why was he the one having to express his feelings? You were the one who ran away! But you were almost, if not more prideful than him. Or so he thought. He never really spoke about what he felt with anyone, so maybe he was just biased. “How did you feel?”

The question confused you. “How did I feel? Uh… It was nice, I guess.”

“You guess?” Porco blurted, offended.

You shot him a look. “Yes, I guess.”

“Right, sorry.” He sheepishly shrugged. “Well, I just wanted to ask you if everything, well, if you were okay with it.”

You nodded slowly. “Y-yeah, I’m fine.”

“Cool,” Porco nodded, drumming his fingers on the table. He looked to the side, observing students passing by. “Cool. Because nothing changed for me. It was like I said. Just confused.” He winced.

He hadn’t ever felt so opposed to something he said like he was now. Why was he lying?

You were interested in Reiner, that’s why.

And you hadn’t addressed it, so that must have meant you didn’t want anything else to come of it. It was just a kiss. A kiss in the heat of the moment, after all.

“Okay, cool.” You let out a breath of relief. “Same.”

Porco felt a pang in his chest.

“Yep, so that’s all I was just gonna talk to you about.”

You nodded. “Okay.”

After an awkward moment of quiet, you chuckled.

“What?” Porco questioned.

You shook your head.

“Tell me.” Porco insisted.

You couldn’t hide the grin on your face from forming. “Nothing, it’s just… that’s so like you. Only you wouldn’t be able to differentiate between anger and romance.”

Porco glared at you, and his glare was the last thing to send you over the edge, giggling.

Porco found his resolve cracking, and he joined you in laughter. “Shut up.”

You giggled harder. “Sorry, it’s true.”

Porco didn’t protest, because in all honesty, you were right.

-

After you ran from Porco, you breathlessly entered your dorm, slamming your door a little too harshly. You were panting wildly, as if you had been chased by a grizzly bear, or some type of monster. Well- you kind of had been.

“Are you okay?” Mikasa’s alarmed question rang out in the kitchen as she left her room to inspect the cause of commotion.

You couldn’t respond, suddenly choked up.

She came closer, eyebrows knit in concern. “Y/N, what happened?”

You squeezed your eyes shut, your back pressed against your hard door. “I-I don’t know.”

Mikasa frowned. She was used to your emotional outbursts, but she had never seen you so distraught to the point you were unable to form words. She rubbed your shoulder wordlessly, allowing you time to gather your thoughts.

You took a deep breath. “Porco.” You sighed, eyes downcast.

Mikasa scowled. “What did he do? I swear, his little jerk act is getting old. Someone needs to knock some sense into him-”

“No,” You wailed, covering your eyes in embarrassment. “No, it’s the opposite, actually. I was the jerk. Or I don’t know. He kissed me. Wekissed.” You rambled, your hands waving wildly as you attempted to emphasize your point.

Mikasa’s dark eyes widened. “You’re kidding. He kissed you? Against your will?”

“No!’ You exclaimed. “No, not at all. Which is why I’m freaking out! I let Porco kiss me! Porco Galliard! And… and I don’t know how to feel about it?”

Mikasa looked as if her jaw had unhinged from her skull with how shocked she appeared. “No. Fucking. Way.”

“Yes! I kissed Porco!” You cried.

Mikasa’s hand quivered as he brought it up to cover her gaping mouth. “It’s just not possible.”

Tears were prickling at your eyes now, the sensation burning. “I think I fucked up.”

Mikasa collapsed on a stool on the counter. “You’re in deep shit. Porco kissed you!”

“I know!” You screeched. You sat down on the floor in front of the door, your coat pooling onto the hard tile.

“Are you guys going to like, date now?” Mikasa questioned.

You shook your head vigorously. “Absolutely not. Kissing him was one thing, but dating? No, no way. I can’t lose any more dignity.”

“But you guys kissed.” Mikasa whispered.

“I know, I know. Can we stop repeating it?” You whispered back.

Mikasa shook her head. “What’s gonna happen now?”

You sat in silence for a minute, mulling over the question. What would happen now? Would things be weird? Would Porco get mad? It was all so confusing, and you were beginning to regret ever putting your lips on Porco’s…

But you knew what you had felt. The fire in your belly you usually felt whenever you argued with Porco had been nothing compared to this. Whether or not you could admit it, kissing Porco was somewhat enjoyable, and not as gross as you would think. And the way he gingerly held you in your hands, as if you were so delicate…

You forced yourself to snap out of it. You couldn’t afford to think about Porco like this. You had a date. A date with someone you were sure was good for you. You would just have to erase the kiss from your memory, and act like you usually did.

“I guess we’ll just have to act like nothing happened. I can’t be with Porco.”

Mikasa wore a pensive expression. “Why not?”

“Huh?” You weren’t sure you had heard her right.

“Why not, though?” Mikasa said firmly. “I know Porco hasn’t been the nicest, but if you said you guys kissed… maybe something has changed.”
You held your head in your hands. Why was this all so confusing? And why did Porco wait until Reiner asked you out to do that?

“No, nothing can change.” You mumbled. “It’s… Porco. I can’t.”

But you couldn’t explain to yourself why. Porco being himself, well, it wasn’t a good reason in your eyes. But you couldn’t bring yourself to openly admit that.

Mikasa simply sighed at your response. “I would not like to be you right now.”

“Real helpful, thanks.” You muttered.

That was why you chose to approach him a few days later and act as if nothing had happened. But you didn’t expect him to bring it up, much less ask your take on the events. But ultimately he agreed with your stance, and it was settled that neither of you would mention it or bring it up again.

You knew you should be glad, relieved even. Yet when Porco agreed, you felt a sharp pang in your chest, and you weren’t sure if it was due to happiness.

-

“I’m heading to the cafeteria man, you want anything?” Porco asked Colt.

Colt shook his head from his seat at the kitchen “table” (it was a typical gray foldable table they stole from a frat party) and continued highlighting the majority of his textbook. “I don’t think I can stop to eat.” He rubbed his eyes with the palms of his hands.

Colt looked stressed, dark circles lining his clear blue eyes, and his clean cut hair disheveled from running his hands through it constantly. Paradis University was only two days away from beginning the first day of testing, and the stress was apparent on many students, tired, ragged faces not an uncommon sight.

Porco was more or less prepared, but he had a “wing it” attitude, whereas Colt was taking more of a “stress every waking minute until it was over” approach.

“Why did I choose physical therapy as a career?” Colt whined.

Porco chuckled. “Hey, man, lay off the flash cards for a while, yeah? Get some exercise, or eat an apple, or somethin’. Just back away from the book for a bit.”

Colt huffed drily. “Right! An apple! I have to fucking analyze the genetic makeup of an apple for Nutrition. I don’t know how, or why, but apparently that’s important for me to know!” He was borderline hysterical, but Porco was used to Colt’s nervous outbursts.

“Cool. I’ll be back soon.” Porco grabbed his keys and student ID off the key hanger in the living room.

“Hey, after this, I’m throwing the wildest party yet. I deserve it after this shit week.” Colt unceremoniously announced.

Porco snorted. “Fine by me. See you.”

Porco made his way to the elevator, chuckling quietly to himself as he remembered the time you spilled your drink all over him. He remembered your scowl, and how he thought it was slightly funny how worked up you got over his comments. His mind flashed back to the kiss, and he had to blink a few times to  bring himself back to reality.

He had thought about the kisses you shared so much over the two days you avoided him that he began to wonder if he had just imagined it. But there was no way he could have, it felt too real, too good to not be true.

But you had made it clear what you wanted, so he knew he had to push those thoughts away.

He entered the lobby, and just as he took his phone out to check an email notification, he heard the glass door open, and chatter. When he looked up, he spotted you in the Garrison’s signature green polo, entering with a friend by your side. He brought his hand up to wave, but then lowered it, realizing you probably hadn’t spotted him.

Before he could overthink it, his legs were guiding him towards you, and soon he was in front of you, almost too close.

“Woah, hey.” You greeted, being surprised by his sudden appearance (he did that a lot- scare you by appearing randomly.)

“Right, sorry.” Porco laughed nervously, running a hand through his hair. He had forgotten to speak, and cursed at himself for being weird. Who goes up to someone without speaking? He also couldn’t explain the way his palms grew sweaty at the sight of you, or why speaking to you made his voice tremble. “Hey.” He attempted again.

“Hi, Porco.” You rolled your eyes good naturedly, reaching into your bag for your house key. “Oh, and this is my friend, she lives on the same floor as me.” You referred to the redhead girl next to you, who was blushing and smiling at Porco excitedly. Porco barely remembered her name, much less what she looked like, as he was focused on you, and how your curls fell over your face as you reached into your bag, the curve of your smile-

He felt as if he had gotten sucker punched. Since when did he notice you like this? He could have sworn he was going insane.

He idly introduced himself, his body on autopilot. Your friend bidded you goodbye, leaving just you and Porco alone in the hallway. He cocked an eyebrow at you.

“So, how was work?” He drawled.

You shot him a confused look. You and Porco talked, yes, but talked as in, argued, fought and debated. Not small talk, or peasantries. Well lately, you had done a bit more than talk…

“The usual, boring.” You replied. It was easy to be honest with Porco, as he would be upfront about his judgment.

Porco snorted. “Boring? You? Right.” He winced at his slip.

You awkwardly chuckled. “Y-Yeah, I guess. I’m just trying to think of how to do my hair. My straightener broke, and I really don’t want to go with my hair like this.”

He nodded slowly, face burning with embarrassment at his previous mishap. Why was he so socially inept?

“I think you look better this way. Or else you wouldn’t be curly fry. Doesn’t suit you…So what even are your exact plans for Thursday?”

Your glare was suspicious. What was with the interrogation mixed with praise? You began walking to the elevator, and Porco followed, disregarding his previous plan. “Weren’t you going that way?” You pointed out.

Porco shook his head. “Nah. So what’re you doing with Braun? Is he-”

“Geez, dude, what’s with the interrogation? Am I on trial?” you huffed, pressing a button on the elevator to get to your floor. The memory of riding it with Porco the first time came back to you, and you resisted the urge to smirk at the thought.

Porco scowled. “What? I don’t deserve to know?”

You were incredulous. “What? Why would you- What?” You couldn’t wrap your head around it.

“Well, you’re ditching me for my friend, so I think I have a right to know why.” Porco retorted.

Your scowl deepened. “That’s not true? And it’s literally just dinner and a movie, can you chill?”

Porco’s amber eyes widened. “Wow. Just dinner and a movie? So ditching our lessons for dinner and a movie is worth it? Do you not appreciate the favor I’m doing for you?”

“Dude, what? What’s your issue?” You crossed your arms. The elevator dinged, and the doors opened. A freshman stepped in, and you and Porco silently glared at each other as the boy maneuvered around you to click his floor button. Once he got off, you resumed.

“I literally try to thank you all the time but you refuse it, and now you’re saying I’m ungrateful?”

Porco rolled his eyes. “Yeah, if you can blow me off this easy for some guy you just met.”

“I’ve literally never been on a date, Porco! And I think I know how to drive stick by now, all of these extra lessons are just unnecessary!” You exclaimed.

“And how would you know? You can barely fucking park!” Porco sneered.

Your fists clenched into balls as you uncrossed them. “Why do you even care so much?”
He glowered at you, his brow pinched and face red, silent. You glared back, your stare unwavering.

“I don’t.” He finally replied coolly. “It’’s your loss.”

“So you’re going to quit?”

Porco nodded curtly. “Yeah, since I see I’m of no value to you.”

You shook your head in disapproval. “That’s fucking ridiculous.”

Porco shrugged, pressing the open door button on the elevator. The elevator doors opened with a swoosh. “Not as ridiculous as going out with Reiner when we have lessons.”

You felt tears forming at his harsh tone, and at his nonchalance at your reaction. “You are a fucking jerk, Galliard. I was actually starting to think you were cool. But you’re just- this is so, so not fucking cool.” You choked out. “But fine, awesome! I don’t need you. Asshole.” You reached into your bag and threw something at his feet. He bent down to pick it up as you stormed out of the elevator.

Porco picked the small bag off the floor, inspecting it in his large palms.

In the bag was a miniature metal plaque keychain, with the words “World’s Greatest Driving Instructor #1” on it.

Feeling like absolute shit, Porco sighed and left the elevator, hoping to catch up to you. But you weren’t in the hallway, and he cursed at himself for letting his anger and jealousy get the best of him. He figured you had already run off, too far for him to reach you.

“Fuck.” He mumbled under his breath. “Just fuck.” He paced the hallway with a hand in his hair.

“Porco!” A high pitched voice suddenly called to him. He turned, and saw Hitch walking to meet him.

“Hey, you,” She squeezed his arm. “What’re you doing in the girl’s hall?”

His fingers ran over the plaque in his hand. “There is no girl’s hall.” He grumbled.

Hitch giggled. “I know, silly. I’m just tryin’ to scare you. What’s that?” She leaned over his line of vision, covering the plaque with her blonde head. “Ooh, that’s cute! Who gave it to you?”

He frowned. “Y/N.”

Hitch murmured. “That was sweet of her. So listen, I was wondering what you were up to Thursday?”

Porco finally looked at her directly. She wore a hopeful expression, and he noticed how her eyes were ringed with blue eyeliner, which made her eyes pop. Her hair was wavy ish, and she wasn’t too bad looking. “You’re asking me?” Porco repeated.

Hitch nodded. “Yeah, why not? We could go to a bar, or something.”

Porco hesitated. The image of you crossed his mind, and he felt his heart tighten.

Noticing his hesitation, Hitch’s smile faded. “Unless you’re busy? If not, its okay, just forget it-”

“No, I-” Porco sighed. “Sorry. I’m just… distracted. But yeah, sure. I’ll go out with you.” He felt bad for his lack of enthusiasm, but his heart just wasn’t in it. He wasn’t even sure why he agreed in the first place. But seeing as you, well you had unceremoniously stormed off and he had unceremoniously “quit”, he figured he had nothing else to lose.

And who knew, maybe he would forget about you. Maybe he was just confused. And you could be happy with Reiner. He would try to be happy with Hitch. Even if her voice was annoying at times.

He hated the way it sounded, and how happy it made her.

“Great! I knew you’d come around. So let’s go to…”

He drowned Hitch’s voice out, nodding idly as she blabbered about their plans.

The whole time, his fingers ran over the keychain, and he wished he had just told you to wait.

Chapter Text

“𝗥𝗘𝗜𝗡𝗘𝗥'𝗦 𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘!“ 𝗠𝗜𝗞𝗔𝗦𝗔 𝗖𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗗.

“Try not to act all lovey-dovey in front of him.” Ymir advised, giving you a look.

“Ymir!” Historia scolded. “Don’t psych her out.”

“Right, sorry.” Ymir smirked. “Try not to bring up how you shoved your tongue down his friend’s throat a few days ago.”

Historia and Sasha gasped. You paled at the crass remark, and all three of you swiveled to shoot Ymir a glare.

“Sorry, still a sore subject? I thought we’d be past that by now.” Ymir shrugged, plopping down on your bean bag chair. You rolled your eyes, turning back to the full length mirror in front of you, analyzing your reflection.

You looked good. Not stunning, or hot, just a slightly different version of you that you weren’t used to seeing. Gone were your under eye circles due to the power of concealer, some good makeup and Sasha’s mastery, and you wore something other than your work uniform or sweats this week. Instead of your ratty bag was a nice purse Historia lent you, and your hair was neatly straightened with slight waves at the ends, a stark contrast to your wild curls thanks to Historia’s skilled hand.

Historia, Ymir and Sasha had come over to help prepare you for your first (hopefully of many) date with Reiner, and you were a nervous wreck, never having interacted with someone as manly as him. You hoped you didn’t say something to scare him away, or as Ymir said, let something slip about Porco.

Porco, who you were no longer speaking to. Your heart tightened at the thought of no longer seeing him in the cafeteria as much as you used to, or how you no longer exchanged sarcastic messages about your driving lessons with. It was as if it never happened- which you guessed was what you both wanted.

The only time you had seen him in the past two days was on the way to work, but his back was to you, and he was walking with a blonde haired girl. You figured he wouldn’t appreciate you approaching him, and it’s not like you had anything to say to him. But the lack of closure was eating at you, something Ymir found great amusement in bringing up.

“I don’t know, babe.” She had said. “Seems to me like Y/N’s got a thing for her so-called worst enemy. I sense a little crush. Is that so, Y/N?” She teased.

“Ymir, stop projecting.” Sasha came to your defense. “He’s a jerk.”

“Yeah,” You had agreed. “A douchebag.”
But there was no conviction in your insult, which troubled you.

You stared at your reflection a second more before turning to face Historia and Sasha, who were beaming at their work (you).

“You look beautiful.” Historia reassured you, spotting your skeptical expression.

“I don’t get how this is your first date with a body like that.” Sashe added appreciatively.

You blushed. “You guys are gonna inflate my ego so much I’ll end up dating myself.”

They giggled, ushering you to the living room where Reiner stood awkwardly, a bouquet of flowers in his hand.

You graciously accepted it, and once you bid the girls goodbye (Ymir scrutinizing Reiner and threatening him passive aggressively) you were on your way to his car.

“You look gorgeous.” Reiner said once you had made it out into the hall. “That dress looks great on you.”

You grinned. “Thank you, Reiner. You look cute as well.”

Reiner chuckled. “That’s the first time I’ve been called cute.”

Your smile dropped, mortification taking over your features. “Oh, God, I didn’t mean it in like an offensive way-”

Reiner shook his head, placing his large hand on the small of your back. “Don’t worry, I’ll accept it. Here, let me get that for you.” He reached over to open the car door for you.

You smiled at him, although this time it was a bit wobblier. You were so nervous, and you could feel sweat beginning to form at the base of your neck. How did Reiner appear so chivalrous, yet so intimidating?

“So, I made reservations at this high end restaurant in Marley. They have a wait list of about two months, but I managed to call in a favor from a friend of mine to let us in.” He winked at you. “And then we can head on over to the movie. Sound good?”

You nodded, swallowing a lump in your throat. You hadn’t thought the restaurant would be that fancy, and you mentally thanked your mom for making you keep your graduation dress, which was a bit too pretentious for you but perfect for the occasion now.

“Awesome. Their calamari is exquisite.” He pinched the air with his thumb and pointer finger, emphasizing his point.

You felt your stomach drop. “Oh, I’m-um, I’m allergic to seafood, Reiner.” You told him apologetically.

Reiner’s eyes widened. “Oh. You’re kidding.”

You shook your head, mildly irritated. Why would you lie about that? “I’m not. I get anaphylactic.”

“Oh, well that’s alright.” Reiner waved his hand. Although you could tell from his tone that it was not alright. You bit your lip anxiously, hating to disappoint him or damper his plans. But you also preferred to not break into an allergic reaction at a five star restaurant.

“We can still go, just not order any seafood.” You suggested.

“Right. No problem!” Reiner agreed. He began pulling out of the parking spot, revving his car engine. He shot you a smirk, a mischievous glint in his blue eyes.

You always thought blue eyes were the prettiest on a guy, yet here you were staring into Reiner’s and you couldn’t find any sense of attraction to them. You didn’t know when your taste had changed, but you were starting to think blue eyed men were not your type anymore.

“She’s got 280 HP,” He bragged, referring to the car he was still revving. “And a V6.”

As if you knew what that meant. “Oh, I’m not really into cars.” You replied, hoping he’d get the hint you weren’t interested.

Reiner shrugged. “Yeah, most girls aren’t.”

Your eye twitched. If Porco had said that, you would have replied with Then why the fuck did you bring it up?

But then you realized you weren’t with Porco, and Reiner would probably not appreciate your honest commentary.

The car ride to the restaurant was more or less awkward. Reiner blared music and revved his engine much to your annoyance the whole time. To make matters worse, he was playing terrible music.

“You mind if I change the station?” You shouted to be heard over the music. “Or lower it a bit?”

Reiner glanced at you before switching lanes, not even bothering to use his blinker. You didn’t drive much, but you were pretty sure you knew well enough to use your blinker.

“Err, I don’t really like any other stations.” He teetered. “But you can play something on the way back.”

You pressed your lips together firmly. You hadn’t expected a response like that, and you doubted Reiner would let you control the music on the way back.

For some reason, your mind wandered to Porco. You wondered how he was doing tonight, since you weren’t practicing driving as usual. You compared the way Reiner drove to Porco’s driving. While Reiner was reckless, and keen to showing off, Porco was smoother, weaving through turns seamlessly and maintained his engine purring appreciatively. You noticed the way people turned in their cars to admire the car, and even though it was Marcel’s, Porco took great care in maintaining it safe. Whereas Reiner… well, he was acting like the usual trust fund kid.

You figured he had some type of wealth, but you didn’t think he would be so careless. He practically confirmed his mother had gotten him the car, but you questioned if he even seemed to appreciate it, considering the way he manhandled it.

At least Porco would have let me change the station, you thought to yourself bitterly. Then you froze. Porco’s habits invading your mind was not beneficial to your situation right now. You had to focus on the date you were on, not on some meathead who hurt your feelings.

You still couldn’t shake the feeling that perhaps your first date wouldn’t be a very good time after all.

-

Porco sighed, knocking on Hitch’s door once more. He had been knocking for five minutes, and still no sign of his so-called date. He fought the urge to leave with every passing second.

His patience usually wore thin, but he was unsure why he was so reluctant to go out with Hitch tonight. Usually, he would be a gentleman, or make the girl fall for his dashing charm. But today he just didn’t feel like it.

What was the point? He asked himself. He didn’t even know what he wanted, so why bother trying to put up a front?

Hitch finally opened the door, peering at him through her eyelashes. “Hi, Pock. Sorry for the wait.” She giggled.

Porco offered her a tight lipped smile, handing her a small bouquet of flowers he had picked up last minute. In his opinion, the orange color was ugly, but by the way Hitch gushed over them he could infer she liked them. He led her to his car, and Hitch appreciatively “oohed”.

“This is nice, Pock!” Porco tried not to flinch at the dreaded nickname. “You should teach me how to drive a stick.” She chuckled.

“This is an automatic.” He muttered.

Hitch reddened. “I knew that! Just sayin’.”

Porco nodded, unsure of what to say. “So, where to?”

Hitch had made their plans, a fact that he felt guilty for- but she had been the one to ask him out after all. Plus, he didn’t have the energy to plan something that could reach Hitch’s standards. He just hoped it didn’t break his bank account too much.

“Do you know Raffaello’s? I love that place. Their alfredo is literally so good, I went there last time for Mina’s birthday dinner and I was this close to eating the whole table’s serving…”

He drowned out her little rant, focusing on inputting the location into his phone. He had been to Raffaello’s a few times for team mate’s birthday dinner, and he wasn’t a huge fan. He murmured and chuckled a few times as Hitch continued her story, hoping he would appear like he was listening or even interested in her rendition of the last time she visited.

Hitch suddenly let out a high pitched scream. “I love this song!”

The song was some rap song you hated. Porco remembered how everytime you would hear it, you would skip the track without asking. He would pretend to get annoyed, but he secretly found it funny. You had such a dislike for the song, it was contagious. He began hating it too after a while but never got around to removing it from his playlist.

A fact which he became hyper aware about as Hitch sang her heart out to the lyrics. If Porco wasn’t sure he hated the song, he was now, the lyrics sounding ridiculous to his ears and the beat suddenly awful. Without hesitation he pressed the skip track button on the radio, which made Hitch pout as he released a breath of relief. He ignored her glaring at him from the corner of his eye and pretended to be engrossed in driving, glancing over his shoulder before turning his blinker on and switching lanes.

“You’re no fun.” Hitch complained.

Porco shrugged. “Sorry, I just hate that song.”
Hitch rolled her eyes. “Well, what do you like to listen to?”

Porco pondered for a bit. He picked his phone up, scrolling through his various playlists before settling on a song.

As the music filled the car, Hitch made an approving noise and settled back in her seat, being quiet for the first time since they began the drive to the restaurant. Porco silently head bopped to the music, and once again you came to mind.

He hated how you had managed to sneak up on him, becoming a part of his routine and snaking your way into his mind. Now that you were no longer speaking, he found your absence all the more harder. He hadn’t even realized when your friendship had gotten to that point.

This was your song, the one you had showed him so long ago. He had pretended to dislike it at first, but what you didn’t know was that when he got home he listened to it on repeat for weeks. So much that whenever he heard it he associated it with you.

He knew it was wrong, playing your song for Hitch. Still, he couldn’t help himself from wishing it was you in his passenger seat instead.

-

“I’ll have a lemon water, please, and the lady will have a margarita.” Reiner told the waiter.

Your eyes widened, and you shot Reiner a look over your menu. You weren’t of legal age to drink, but he winked at you and motioned with his hand for you to wait. The waiter nodded, walking off to presumably fetch the drinks.

“Reiner, I can’t drink.” You whispered frantically.

He shook his head. “It’s okay, I know the owner.” He replied nonchalantly.

You sighed. “I just don’t really feel comfortable drinking.” When I literally just met you, You wanted to add, but didn’t, for the sake of not appearing dramatic.

Reiner glanced at you, his expression unreadable. “Oh, no problem. I’ll tell the waiter when he gets back.”

You nodded, returning to the menu. You skimmed over the pages, but you couldn’t find something you found appetizing. Worse, everything seemed to cost a fortune and it embarrassed you to have Reiner pay for it.

“So, what are your hobbies?” Reiner asked, attempting to create conversation.

You thought about it for a bit. “I like to read, and I love music. I’m also a huge movie nerd. Ooh, I love to bake, too. And I like fashion, I just don’t participate much.” You chuckled.

Reiner nodded, appearing somewhat interested. “That’s cool. What do you like to bake?”

You smiled, the conversation finally beginning to interest you. “Oh, my personal favorite is cake. But I’m told my best work is brownies.” A flashback of Porco devouring your food crossed your mind.

“Brownies? Hmm, I’m not a huge fan. Bread makes me bloated.” Reiner commented.

You nodded, somewhat disappointed. “Oh, yeah. I haven’t really baked anything lately, now that I think about it.”

There wasn’t anyone who enjoyed your sweets as much anymore.

“Well, I love sports. Exercise. Hiking, biking, swimming. Anything having to do with being active, really. I can’t stand people who just sit on the couch eating junk food all day.” Reiner chortled.

You paled, as Reiner had just described a normal weekend for you. It wasn’t that you were averse to being active, but it just wasn’t something you felt you had to do. Plus, you spent most of your week working, and walking everywhere was enough exercise for you. You just didn’t have the time to go to the gym, much less the budget to eat organic food all the time. You didn’t expect Reiner to be so out of touch, but then again- he was rich. He had the schedule to work on his body.

His body, which he was currently flexing. He had rolled his sleeve up, and was flexing his bicep to you across the table. You smiled meekly, feeling second hand embarrassment as some of the patrons turned to look at him.

You were starting to think reiner was not your type.

“What’s your opinion on this new attendance policy?” Reiner questioned later as the waiter served the entrees. You thanked the waiter, and then turned back to Reiner.

“My opinion? Oof, I don’t think you want to get me started.” You shook your head.

Reiner grinned. “Lay it on me, I can handle it.”

You raised an eyebrow. “Alright, I think it’s bullshit.”

Reiner laughed. “How so?”

You exhaled. “How do they expect us to stretch four absences over six months, but athletes get to miss weeks on end with no consequence? If they’re going to penalize us for missing class, it shouldn’t be a whole letter grade, at least.”

Reiner’s face was blank, and you began to wonder if he had heard you. Just as you were about to clear your throat, he spoke. “I totally agree.”

You were skeptical. “Really? But you’re an athlete.”

Reiner shrugged. “Yeah, but you sound passionate about it, so I agree.”

You blinked, unsure if you had heard him correctly. Did he just admit to agreeing with you… for no reason? You wanted to bury your face in your hands and scream. Reiner was handsome, yes, but he was appearing to be so, so… brainless. Mind bogglingly brainless.

Porco would have never agreed with you just because you were “passionate” about the subject. In fact, he would have disagreed with you just because of that. He would have argued against your point, whatever it was, just for the sake of watching your reaction. And even if he agreed, you’d like to think he would do so with more conviction and solid reasoning.

And then you realized you liked thinking about Porco.

You refrained from dropping your fork in that moment as the weight of your realization dawned on you.

Reiner was mindlessly chattering, his words drowned out by your own thoughts. He had resumed conversation, not really stopping to notice that you were not participating. You wondered if he even cared.

Once the food arrived, you appreciatively let out a gasp. “Wow, your dish looks good.”

Reiner grinned. “Right? And it’s all under 600 calories.” You nodded, not really interested in the nutritional aspect.

“Can I try?” You motioned with your clean fork at a piece of food on his plate. You wanted to try it, as you had nothing on your dish that resembled it.

“Uhh,” Reiner awkwardly pulled his plate closer to his side, much to your mortification. “I don’t really like sharing food. It’s just a thing of mine.”

You couldn’t formulate a response. No one had ever said no to you in such a way before. Shit, not even Porco. In fact, Porco was so used to offering you food he would just hand over whatever he was snacking on, whether it be chips or fries wordlessly. Sometimes, you would even lean over and pluck a brownie from the bag you gave him.

After a few minutes of awkward conversation, the moment had passed and you released a breath of relief. Okay, so Reiner was a bit greedy with his food. That was fine. You could be, too. And the conversation you were having wasn’t that bad. It was about some rapper he liked, which you more or less knew about.

Following what seemed like ages, the check arrived, and you reached into your purse as Reiner inspected it with a raised eyebrow. “Let me help you.” You said after noticing his somewhat pained expression.

Reiner waved his hand at you. “Don’t be silly.” His voice sounded strained.

You insisted, placing your hand on the black cover of the check. “I ordered an expensive dessert, c’mon. It’s a lot.”

Reiner paused, squinting in thought. “Tell you what, you’ll cover next time. As for now, allow me to pay.” He shut the check and waved the waiter over.

“Oh, okay. Thank you.” You sunk back in your seat. You couldn’t quite place it, but his response seemed… ingenuine. As if he was more bothered than he let on.

Porco would never make you pay for a date, you thought.

God, what was wrong with you today? Since the date started, you kept thinking about him. You shook your head and stood, following Reiner to his car.

“So, what movie are we watching?” You asked once inside.

Reiner chuckled. “Oh, man, I’m excited. It’s the new Mission Impossible. It’s awesome. I heard-”

You drowned Reiner out, attempting to conceal your dread. You loved action movies, all types of movies really, but you hated theMission Impossible franchise. You would much rather watch paint dry, or work a double shift under your rude manager. But you couldn’t admit that, not when Reiner seemed so excited and he had most likely already bought the tickets. You recalled the time you, Sasha and Mikasa had watched the previous movie, and how you all took turns poking fun at its over dramatic acting/incredulous plot.

Reiner once again drove like a maniac, blasting music you couldn’t bear. You checked your watch for what felt like the umpteenth time that night, and tried not to feel too disappointed that the night was barely beginning.

-

“So, Porco, tell me your stats.” Hitch said, leaning on her hand on the table.

Porco swallowed the bite of dry pasta he was chewing on. “My soccer stats?”

Hitch nodded slowly, as if he were an idiot. Which in a way he was. “Yes, duh. I wanna see how good you are.”

“Oh,” Porco clicked his tongue, pondering. “You know how to analyze stats?”

Hitch rolled her eyes. “Uh, yeah. I love soccer. Any sports, really.”

Porco’s eyes widened in surprise. He wasn’t one to judge a book by its cover, but he would not have pegged Hitch as a sports enthusiast. “Ah, that’s cool.”

Hitch beamed. “I’m told. So, c’mon let’s hear it.”

He shrugged. “If I even knew, I’d tell you.”

Hitch frowned. “Bummer! Well, what position do you play?”

“I’m a center back.”

Hitch raised her blonde eyebrows at him in surprise. “Wow, so you’re not too bad.”

The corner of his lips tugged in a half hearted smile. “I’m alright.”

“No, seriously! Some people suck at their position. My high school team’s striker and goalie were terrible, which is a recipe for disaster. I guess it’s safe to say no Uzoho is coming out of there.” She giggled at her sly reference of a talented, young, Nigerian soccer goalie.

Porco caught the reference, and he figured if he was anyone else he’d be pumped that Hitch knew so much about sports. It was cool, but he just couldn’t bring himself to appreciate her sports savvy. He wasn’t sure what was going on with him, or why he couldn’t concentrate completely on Hitch’s attempts at conversation. She also didn’t insult him, complimenting him as well. He tried his best to be there for her, but his mind kept drifting back to the only place, or person, whom he wanted to be with. You.

You, who had absolutely no knowledge about sports and didn’t even care about his soccer statistics because it was truly irrelevant. You, who couldn’t tell a baseball from a basketball. It was a fact that he used to find annoying, but reminiscing about it now made him find it adorable. He didn’t know if he could ever bring himself to admit that, but he was no longer denying it. He found you endearing more often than not, regardless of his tough façade. And you had never, not once, complimented him like this. He had grown to love the banter you shared.

“Porco?” Hitch had been waving her hand in front of him for a minute now, as he had randomly begun staring at his plate without blinking. “Are you okay?”

His eyes snapped to her face, at her hopeful reaction, blue eyes wide, and he struggled to dissipate the lump in his throat. The truth was, she was not you. Hitch wasn’t you.

He sighed. “I’m sorry. I just… I have a lot on my mind.”

Hitch stared at him with her eyebrows furrowed. “Like what?”

He glanced at her nervously. Hitch didn’t seem too crazy. She looked trustworthy. He doubted confiding in her before, but now that she was here, looking at him with such concern, he reconsidered his position. He doubted she would hurt him. He couldn’t live this lie anymore, and he felt like his chest would burst from all the emotions running through his body right now..

“It’s just.. different.” He whispered.

“What is?” Hitch insisted.

“I…”

A waiter suddenly arrived, refilling Hitch’s drink. She smiled at her, before turning back to Porco, who’s courage had dissipated. “Do you want to get out of here and talk about it?”

-

“So what’d you think?” Reiner asked once you had exited the theatre.

You offered a small smile. You were growing tired, and if Reiner had heard your various yawns throughout the three hour long movie, he didn’t mention it. “It was good.” You didn’t bother telling him your real opinion, because something told you he wouldn’t find it amusing.

“Right? They’re always such hits.” He threw his garbage out before joining you in the walk to his car, all the way on the other side of the mall.

You felt his fingers brushing yours, but you ignored it. Reiner was nice, charming, and by most people’s standards handsome- but you didn’t feel ready to hold his hand just yet. There was a lingering thought in the back of your mind, a small nagging feeling that ensured you were cautious around him.

“You look really pretty.” Reiner said, the bridge of his nose tinted red. “Like a Goddess.”

You smiled at his random praise. “A Goddess? Really?” You were doubtful you looked that good.

Reiner nodded insistently. “Yes. Especially with your hair that way. You should wear it like that more.” He flicked a small strand of your hair to emphasize his point. You tried not to let your disappointment show, but you were sure the way your smile visibly decreased was a giveaway. Reiner liking your straight hair better only dampened your mood.

“Thanks. I get that a lot.” You murmured.

Reiner grinned, assuming he had done good. “So, what’re your plans for next semester?”

You huffed. “Hopefully I’ll have a car by then. I’m eyeing this mini cooper, I just need to learn stick-” Your voice faltered as you remembered your scorned instructor. “Well, I think I know it by now, but someone else doesn’t.”

“Galliard?” Reiner chuckled. “He still giving you lessons?”

You scoffed. “No, he quit.” Before you could stop yourself, you had blurted it out. Although, you thought he would have told his friend by now. But judging by Reiner’s surprised face, it seemed he did not.

“Really? Why? He seemed like he enjoyed it.”

You frowned. Why would Porco enjoy giving you lessons? “I don’t know. He got mad because I asked to skip today. It was so weird.”

Reiner wore a pensive expression as you walked a few paces more.

“That’s just Galliard.” He finally replied, brushing your sentiment off. But you noticed how tightly he said it, as if it was against his will.

“I think I should head home now.” You sighed. “My last test is tomorrow.”

He nodded. “You sure? I was thinking we could head back to my place for a bit, shoot some rounds of cup pong.”

You pressed your lips together to resist from spewing what you really thought. You sincerely hoped you weren’t looking too much into Reiner’s invitation, hoping you didn’t imply the wrong thing.

“I have to pass.” You apologetically smiled. You chose not to look too into it, as he had been respectful the entire time. Even in the movie theater, he didn’t try to cop a feel or lay a hand on your thigh like most boys would.

You reached his car, and Reiner made no attempt to open your door to get in. You sat in the passenger seat, but before you could ask for the aux, just as Reiner had promised, he was selecting a song and pulling out of the parking spot.

You didn’t bother reminding him.

You sat comfortably in silence until you neared your workplace, and the ice cream parlor. “Oh, look! That’s where I work and where Jean works.” You motioned. “They have really good ice cream. Do you want to get some?”

Reiner inhaled. “Ooh, I probably shouldn’t. Too much sugar, bad for my diet intake.” he explained.

You were thankful for the dark, as it hid your displeased expression. “Oh, yeah, no problem. I understand.”

He shot you an apologetic smile, pinching your cheek- which you did not appreciate. “Sorry, darlin’. Next time.”

You seriously doubted there would be a next time, and if there was, you figured he would “forget”, just like he did with his promise of letting you control the music. You restrained your urge to cringe at the pet name he called you.

“Okay, this is me.” You said once he pulled into the front of the dorms.

“You sure? I can take you closer.”

You shook your head. “No, thanks. You live on the other side, it’s too much.”

Reiner shrugged. “Okay. Well, I had a great time. It was really nice to see you.”

You nodded. “Thank you, Reiner. I had fun, too.”  You turned your legs to face the window, your hand on the door handle.

Reiner smiled before leaning in slightly. “Is it okay if I kiss you?”

Your eyes widened. “Um, I-I-” You gulped, and Reiner, noticing you reaction, backed up, a sheepish smile replacing his confident one.

“Oh, that’s alright. So, I guess I’ll see you another time?”

“Uh-huh.” you managed to get out.

Reiner nodded, refusing to face you and opting to tap his steering wheel. “Have a good night.” He called as you got out.

You turned back once more, hoping the cold wind could conceal the true motive of why you were panting so hard. “You, too.”

He drove off before you could begin walking, and you sighed.

Why did you feel so empty?

You began your walk to your dorm. Overall, the date wasn’t horrible. It was just intolerable. You felt like you were suffocating the entire time.

You had noted more things you disliked about Reiner than what you liked. He drove terribly, had awful music taste, was spoiled, cheap? Neither of you had anything in common, and to add onto it, he didn’t like your natural hair.

He didn’t share his food, and his taste in movies was questionable. You began compiling this list in your head as you walked to your room with a renewed sense of vigor.

Then, it hit you like a ton of bricks.

You stopped your pace, nearly tripping over your own feet from how abruptly you stopped.

Reiner was not your type. True. Reiner was a bad person. No, false. Did he happen to be obnoxious at times? Yes. But ultimately, could you say he was at fault for how tonight went? No, he was just being himself. If he had asked you out months before, you would have been over the moon. You had never been asked on a date before, and as far as most date stories went, nothing too bad happened. So why were you in such a sour mood?
Because the truth was, there was nothing wrong with Reiner. Reiner didn’t do anything to you to make you think he deserved to be labeled as a jerk. He was just the wrong person for you.

Reiner was different, and that shouldn’t be an issue. But he was different from what you were starting to realize was what you actually wanted. He wasn’t who you kept comparing him to.

You weren’t sure what to do with that revelation, much less who made you even come to that conclusion.

-

Hitch and Porco sat in his car, Hitch reclined in the passenger seat gazing at Porco while he took deep breaths. He had paid for two hours of parking, and he had about one left after dinner.

“So, what’s going on, Pock?” Hitch questioned.

He rubbed his eyes. “Where do I start?”

Hitch chuckled. “How about where you go in your mind when you’re not paying attention to me?”

Porco let out a short laugh at her wording. “Sorry. I really am. It’s just…”

Hitch sighed, leaning back. “Let me guess, it’s not me, it’s you?”

He shot her a look of confusion. “I wouldn’t word it like that, but-”

“Please, Galliard, you’re so obvious.” She rolled her eyes. “You’re just not into me. I get it- Well, actually, no. I don’t get it, because how could you not be- but if there’s someone else I understand. You didn’t seem too psyched when I asked you out- which, by the way, I never do. I guess now I know why.” She muttered.

Porco chuckled. “Sorry, I really am Hitch. And I honestly didn’t know- I still don’t- what I feel about this… It’s really not you, it’s her.”

Hitch tilted her head in confusion. “You still can’t define your feelings? Are you five, Galliard?”

He huffed in frustration. “No, it’s not what I feel.. It’s who. I just can’t believe it.”

She cocked an eyebrow. “So you’re resisting liking someone? Are you stupid?”

Porco glared at her.

“What? It sounds like you are.” Hitch shrugged. “Who runs away from their feelings this much? And it’s not like you wouldn’t be able to pull, I mean, you got me to ask you out.”

Porco groaned, shifting his gaze to the window. Maybe he was stupid. Hitch was nice, not ugly, and knew about sports. She would be anyone’s dream girl, and he had heard the boys practically drool over her. Yet she just wasn’t what he wanted.

“How did you even guess I wasn’t into you?” Porco slyly changed the subject.

Hitch sighed. “Please. I may be a bimbo, but I’m not an airhead. The song you played? How would you even know that song when all you listen to is rap and rock? Obviously a girl showed you it. You didn’t even bat an eye at our waitress, or stare at my ass the whole night. And you literally said it was ‘different’. What does that mean?”

Porco blushed profusely. He hadn’t realized his mopey behavior was so obvious, but to Hitch’s merit, she was observant. “Geez, I really am sorry. It wasn’t my intention. I seriously didn’t even know I felt like this until… until-”

“Until you went out with someone who wasn’t her.” She rolled her eyes. “I’ve been dating long enough to know by now. Don’t sweat it. But I will say, being told I’m ‘different’ in a bad way is a new one for me.”

Porco winced. “You’re not. I’m sure you’ll make someone happy. But… I’m an idiot who wants to be with someone who despises me. I keep looking for her in everyone besides her. And that’s not fair to you.” He ran a finger over the keychain you had given him- well, thrown at him- which he had attached to his car keys. He looked at it everyday, and the sight of it only added to his despair.

“Who? Y/N?” Hitch smirked.

His jaw dropped and his eyes widened. He hadn’t expected her to guess so accurately on the first try. “How-how did you know?”

Hitch giggled. “Sweetie, you talk about her so much it’s kind of hard to not notice it. Even if it was all negative and you claimed to hate her. I’m just the idiot who chose to ignore it.”

“That obvious?” Porco was in disbelief. So all this time he believed he was being slick, he was actually the opposite?

Hitch shrugged. “Maybe not to everyone else. Definitely not to Y/N. But she might just be clueless. But I’m quite nosey.”

Porco guffawed. “Yeah, you’re telling me.”
They sat quietly for a few minutes before Hitch spoke again.

“What’re you gonna do about it?”

He frowned. “I don’t know. I don’t think she wants anything to do with me anymore.” He shook his head. “That’s crazy. Saying it aloud. I actually like Y/N.”

Hitch’s tone was sympathetic as she rubbed his arm. “It could be worse. You could be crushing on me.”

They laughed. “You’re right.”

“I think you should tell her, before Reiner and her become an item.” Hitch said. “Just my advice. I mean, you already admitted you like her. It’s just one step more.”

“It’s not that easy.” Porco shook his head.

“Why not? You’d rather lose her?”

He sighed. “I spent most of our time together being rude to her. Why would she reciprocate any feelings?”

Hitch shook her head in disagreement. “You guys have literally moved past your differences a while ago. Yeah, you bicker but any doofus can see it’s not out of actual hate. If you really hated her, you wouldn’t do all you do for her. You wouldn’t go out of your way to talk to her, or bug her, or whatever you call this childish behavior. Admit it.”

Porco contemplated it. Now that Hitch was laying it out for him, he finally understood. He could accept it was true.

His mind had never been clearer.

“Yeah.” he exhaled. “Yeah. It feels refreshing to say that.”

“See?” Hitch snapped. “All you needed was a genius like me to illuminate your caveman brain.”
Porco scoffed. “Still doesn’t fix the fact that I’m pretty sure she likes Reiner.”

Hitch rolled her eyes. “When are you gonna learn that romance doesn’t care about who’s taken and who isn’t? Just go for it, and if all else fails, you can always get drunk.”

Porco bit his lip. “I guess. Thanks, Hitch. I’m sorry this wasn’t what you were expecting.”

Hitch waved her hand. “Fuck it. You’re different, too. Too different than what I want.”
Porco smirked. “I guess that makes two of us.”

“No hard feelings. Just take me home.” She crossed her arms and put her feet on the dash, much to his annoyance.

-

He decided he was going to tell you. After dropping Hitch off, he sped to the elevator, hoping to catch you after your date with Reiner.

But instead, he heard your voice as he rounded the corner. You were sitting outside the elevator on a bench with Mikasa, gaze downwards as she rubbed your back. He wasn’t sure what you were doing here with her, when your dorm was upstairs. But he hid behind the corner, straining his ear to make out your conversation.

“Are you sure?” Mikasa was asking.

He heard you sigh “Yes. I like him, I really do.”

Porco felt his stomach drop, and the hope he had been carrying since he dropped Hitch off shattered.

“I just… I don’t know when to tell him.” You whispered.

Mikasa released a breath of air. “Wow. I didn’t peg your type to be blondes.”

You chuckled, and Porco decided he had heard enough.

He walked away dejectedly. He had been too late, and it was only himself he could blame.

You had made your choice, and of course, it was not him.

He walked to his dorm, numb. Worst of all, he felt a pain in his heart at the thought of having come so close to you, yet falling short.

“You liking Porco… that’s just-” MIkasa let out a low whistle. “Wow, I still can’t believe it.’
You held your head in your hands. Mikasa had found you coming up the elevator, where she was coming down to meet you so you could get late night coffee together, which apparently you needed. Somehow, you had let it slip that your date didn’t go as well, and that a certain blonde was on your mind the entire time. Then, the revelation that perhaps you liked him more than you yourself knew.

“Me neither. Am I wrong for this?”

Mikasa shook her head. “No, Y/N. It’s better to risk it then ask yourself why. You never know, maybe he likes you too.”

Your frown deepened. “I just don’t want to get my hopes up. I think I blew any chance I had with him.”

“You should still try.”

You glanced at her questioningly. “Since when are you a romantic?”

Mikasa blushed, shrugging then leaning back on the wall. “I’ve been doing some of my own soul searching.”

“Oh, yeah? Does that mean you’re gonna confess you like Eren?” you teased.

Mikasa blushed harder, avoiding your stare. “I invoke my right to not self incriminate.”

You laughed, and Mikasa joined you. You felt your worries wash off of you, with new hope beginning to rise in you that everything would be okay.

You had made up your mind. You would tell Porco, and you wouldn’t go away until he told you what he felt.

Chapter Text

ᴡʜᴇɴ ᴘᴏʀᴄᴏ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ ʟᴀɪᴅ ᴇʏᴇꜱ ᴏɴ ʏᴏᴜ, he felt as if the wind had been knocked out of him.

He hadn’t seen you before, he was sure of that. Your eyes scanned the bleachers, and his heart rate increased as your gaze passed over him. You offered a small smile, before walking in his direction. He momentarily panicked, unsure if you were heading towards him.

You weren’t, instead choosing the seat in front of him to sit next to your friend. He let out an exhale, somewhat embarrassed that he thought you would have chosen to sit next to him when you didn’t even know each other.

Soon, his own friends found him and began filling up the bleachers of the gym. Jean was seated next to him, as was Bertholdt and Reiner. He saw Eren and Armin approach, but they opted to sit next to a dark haired girl he assumed was his childhood friend he had spoken about earlier. Porco’s curiosity peaked, as that meant Eren’s friend was your friend as well.

He made a mental note to ask about you later, when it didn’t appear too eager.

Connie bounded up the bleachers, causing a collective uproar of shouted greetings and slaps on the back. He sat next to Eren, but turned backwards to face Porco and Jean.

“And Mr. Shadis said I wouldn’t graduate.” Connie was bragging. “Look at me now, grandpa!”

The group chuckled, but Porco kept sneaking glances at you.

You were unlike anyone he had seen before.

Your hair was in curly ringlets that Porco found adorable. He wanted to run his fingers through it or twirl them in his hand, and he hoped it wasn’t obvious he was admiring you to anyone else. You smiled as your friend spoke, nodding every few seconds. He wondered what your voice sounded like.

“Scoot over,” Eren suddenly exclaimed, shoving Porco and Bertholdt’s knees apart. Porco scooted, and rolled his eyes at Eren, who was pushy as the day he first met him at soccer tryouts at the beginning of summer.

“Me, too!” Connie cried, earning him a glare from Eren’s friend and a curious look from you.

Connie lunged forward, startling Porco, Eren and Jean.

“Chill out, bozo.” Porco grumbled.

Connie rolled his eyes, lightly shoving his shoulder. “Old grumpy ass.”

The conversation resumed, but Porco kept stealing glances at you, laying your head on your friend’s shoulders.

Porco decided to make his move.

He pushed off of his seat, earning the attention of Eren and Connie.

“Where you going?” Connie shouted, making Porco wince as you turned to identify the cause for Connie’s shouting.

“Mind your own business.” Porco snapped.

Connie held his hands up in surrender. “Just askin’.”

“Don’t ask then.” Porco rolled his eyes, stepping over the gap in the bleachers to sit next to Armin.

“Hey, Porco.” Armin greeted.

Porco nodded, adjusting his position so he was slightly leaning over his knees. “Hey, man. Where are you dorming at?”

Armin cheerily described the dorm he was sharing with Eren, but Porco was more or less paying attention. He was preoccupied with trying to get a better look at you, and analyze his situation before he approached.

“What about you?” Armin finished his rambling.

“Oh-I’m in the 114th, too.” Porco replied distractedly.

Hearing this caught your attention. You had just finished touring the dorms with Mikasa, your freshly assigned room mate. The 114th section of the housing units was your section as well, so you wanted to familiarize yourself with the other students. It seemed everyone Mikasa was acquainted with had gone to high school together, so you felt at a disadvantage that you didn’t know as many people.

“I’m in the 114th section, too.” You added, slightly leaning over Armin to address Porco. “I’m Y/N, by the way!”

Porco was caught off guard. He hadn’t expected you to speak first, much less when he hadn’t said anything to you first. He was off his game, and if his silent reaction was any indicator that his brain was currently short circuiting as he stared into your curious eyes, he was sure his flustered state would be a dead giveaway. Worse of all, he could see your patience wearing thin as he took longer to reply than was expected.

Armin was giving him a wide eyed look, as it had become very obvious Porco was not responding to you.

Unbeknownst to Porco, the expression he wore wasn’t one of mortification but of irritation.

Realizing he wasn’t responding to you, instead giving you a slow blink, you leaned back a bit, uncomfortable at the way he blatantly ignored you.

“So..” Armin attempted to clear the awkward tension. “I heard your roommate is fun!”

“Yeah-He’s-Yeah.” Porco stuttered. He felt his cheeks blazing with intense heat, and lowered his gaze so he wouldn’t have to watch your disapproval.

How had he managed to absolutely blow his one (1) chance with you without even uttering a word? He was an idiot. He knew how important first impressions were, and he absolutely destroyed any semblance of a normal interaction with you.
He had just gone mute, his shock at actually speaking with you overtaking him and causing him to act foolish. If he had a time machine, he would go back and erase the day he was born simply to erase this moment where he had so gracefully screwed up.

He figured he could just apologize, or explain what happened. But… how could he?

Sorry, I was just distracted by the fact that you were actually speaking to me and I freaked out because that wasn’t how I planned it, if you could please annihilate that from your memory I would appreciate it.

Porco didn’t think that would sound too appealing, or charismatic on his part. Instead he opted to just sulk in silence until the opportunity would present itself where he could redeem himself.

After a few minutes of Armin’s nervous babbling, you spoke again.

“You’re smart, Armin. I think you’re more than capable of succeeding in that program.” You told a nervous Armin. He was fretting, wondering if he would be able to thrive in his chosen program of study.

Porco took a deep breath before speaking again. “Yeah, and if you don’t there’s always fast food.” He smirked, hoping his joke would land.

To his horror, he earned a glare from you and a wide eyed look of panic from Armin.

“I was joking!” He tried to backpedal, but judging by your facial expression it was too late- he had tarnished his image.

Armin chuckled nervously, sensing your distaste for Porco’s joke and Porco’s own anxiety at upsetting you.

“That wasn’t a good joke.” You mumbled.

Porco grimaced. “Armin got it, though.”

Your eyes narrowed at him.

“Porco just jokes like that.” Armin came to his defense, which somehow made Porco look worse.

“Maybe Porco should joke differently.” You shot back.

Porco simply stared at you in disbelief. Were you that averse to his humor? It wasn’t like he had hurt Armin. He was just trying to lighten the mood. “Maybe you should lighten up.” Porco retorted.

The glare he received from you was enough to ensure Porco had fucked up.

“Maybe you’re just not funny.” You cooly replied.

You then wordlessly turned your back to talk to your friend instead. And just like that, Porco had lost his opportunity to impress you.

Because of that, neither you or Porco would be able to recover. He didn’t want to blame the attraction he first felt as the reason why he could never act right in front of you, but it felt like no matter how hard he tried to please you he ended up doing the opposite. Any attempts at a civil conversation resulted in arguments, as Porco could tell he irritated you and the fact annoyed him. To make matters worse, he had already ingrained an image of himself as a jerk who liked to belittle his friends in your mind, and he didn’t think he could ever change that.

After a year, he learned to not let it get to him. He got over it, over his little “crush” on you. He no longer went out of his way to change your mind about him, as every attempt ended in failure. Sure, there was the odd day where he thought you looked good, but he thought he knew too much about you now that you and him would never be compatible.

But Porco didn’t think he would grow to care what you thought about him this much, or about you. Ever.

And it was because Porco cared about you that he would let you be happy. He had already fucked up his chances at a respectful relationship with you countless times. You deserved better, someone who got along with you from the get-go. Someone you desired.

-

Meet me at the student center, Eren had said. Don’t be late!

In typical Eren fashion, he was the late one, as he was nowhere to be seen when Porco arrived.

Instead, he saw you.

He didn’t think much of it before he felt himself walking towards you, and then he was in front of you, placing a hand on your book as you tended to ignore his presence. “Yo, L/N,” was leaving his lips faster than he could think. “Where’s Eren at?” He figured if anyone would know, it’d be you.

He was met with a typical snarky reaction from you. Something about not being Eren’s guardian.

If he was honest, he’d admit making you mad was funny to him, but sometimes your tone made him feel like the biggest idiot ever for having bothered you. He wasn’t too sensitive, though, because he knew he had brought it upon himself that first day you met. However, Porco was not one to take it but not dish it out.

“What bit you in the ass today?”

The reaction that got from you made Porco bite his lip to hold back the laugh that wanted to escape him.

After you argued as usual about something that shouldn’t be that big of a deal, he resigned himself to go look for Eren once Mikasa arrived and was actually helpful in aiding him. He shot one last look over his shoulder at you before he left the student center, bumping into Eren in the cafeteria where he apologetically explained he forgot to let Porco know he was going to get lunch.

“Who told you I was in here?” Eren asked, shoving a granola bar in his mouth.

“Mikasa.” Porco replied. “And Y/N.” he added, almost shyly.

Eren huffed. “You still beefing with her? You guys gotta get over it, or something. You’re the only ones in our group who can’t stand each other.”

Porco shrugged. “I don’t have an issue. She hates me.”

“She doesn’t hate you.” Eren scoffed. “Well, I don’t think she does. But regardless, you provoke her too.”

Porco chuckled. He did provoke you, but not out of hatred.

-

For the second time this semester, Porco ran into you where he least expected it. He was on his way to meet Bertholdt and Reiner and play some new video game, but was greeted with an iced coffee being thrown on him. Not purposely, but still an unpleasant experience.

To make matters worse, it was you who he had the uncomfortable encounter with.

He was very confused when he bent down to help you, and when a stray curl fell over your forehead, he thought you were cute. There must have been something in the air, because why would he ever think that about you?

Soon he found his resolve to be stoic breaking as you stood in a defensive pose, ready to “go”. He couldn’t contain the laughter that raked his body, making his sides hurt at your ignorance.

“I’m for sure getting you a coffee now. C’mon.”

He didn’t know it at the time, but he felt as if he had to stretch out the interaction as long as possible. He didn’t find you too unbearable at the moment.

You questioned if he was busy, and he brushed you off, slyly texting Bertholdt and Reiner he would have to cancel or be late.

You were stubborn, that was certain. Sometimes a bit too uptight. You were also too awkward, and you could frankly be weird, your nose always in some obscure book or listening to weird music Porco saw you post on Instagram. (Yes, he followed you a long time ago because he thought you two would get over your dislike for each other sooner.) You followed him back, but neither of you interacted.

So in a way Porco could say he disliked you. But it was never too deep. You weren’t as bad as he made you out to be. You were just so… hard to connect with.

Well, he supposed he was to blame for that. But he would never admit it.

Later, once you had nearly broken his bank account (exaggeration on his part) by loading your drink, Porco questioned why you didn’t do it often, besides the obvious fact that it was expensive. He wasn’t one to pry, so he didn’t. Your appreciation did not go unnoticed, as he saw the way you happily sipped on your drink. And then you offered to wash his clothes, and Porco fought against his body to not blush at your response.

When he saw you had folded his clothes neatly outside his doorstep, he didn’t tell anyone. He didn’t want to get his hopes up that perhaps you tolerated him more than you let on. Yet you were on his mind all week, and his mood was visibly happier to his friends.

“Are you high?” Colt questioned one day, eyeing Porco as he happily hummed while washing the dishes.

Porco rolled his eyes. “No, are you?”

“I don’t know man, you’ve been oddly upbeat all week. What’s up? Did you get laid?”

Porco scoffed. “Why can’t I just have a good week?”

Colt raised an eyebrow. “Because, you’re Porco. You’re always arguing with Reiner, or Y/N, or coach, or a teacher, or something went wrong with your food-”

Porco tsked, cutting him off. “Just learn to enjoy life.” Colt fought the need to scream at the irony in Porco saying that.

He made a mental note to hide his feelings after that, though. He didn’t like people all up in his business.

-

Porco resisted the urge everyday to not strangle Eren. Not only was he hard to get a hold of, always bouncing from one place to another, he was also forgetful. He forgot appointments, equipment, and now, he had forgotten a vital piece of their project (a 3D model of the little trolley they had designed for their fake city) in Mikasa’s dorm, and now it was Porco’s task to retrieve it before Eren lost it again. So when he knocked on the door, the last person he expected to open the door was you.

It was you indeed. You, with a disgruntled expression. Then, the biggest cat Porco had ever seen in his life came waddling out of the dorm, and you rushed to push it back.

“That cat is huge.” Porco commented.

Somehow, you had managed to become more uptight. You refused to let him in, and Porco had no idea what to do.

After a few minutes of arguing, you relented, allowing Porco in. He thought it was both silly and annoying how you nagged at him for whatever he did.

What really made his day was when your own cat preferred him over you, and even though you tried to hide your anger it was obvious it bothered you.

In true nature, you both ended up debating when you refused to lower your music and Porco’s head began to pound.

He was beginning to question how he ever found you interesting or attractive, as right now you seemed to be the most inconsiderate person he’d ever met. Not only had you refused to get him his piece, you were also clueless about sports and you borderline threw his drink at him when he kindly asked you for water.

Things changed, however, when Mikasa needed your help. He wasn’t too happy with driving so far so late, but he could tell it was an emergency, and he didn’t want to let you-er, Mikasa- down.

At the gas station, the cashier hit on you. Porco didn’t know why he was surprised. You looked funny- adorably funny. Your hair was in its natural state, and you nearly drowned in your oversized clothes. His chest secretly swelled in pride when you declined Floch’s advances, although he figured any sane person would.  The guy was creepy.

He didn’t understand the feeling that was forming in his chest whenever he would look at you and you would be looking at him indiscreetly. He couldn’t think of a reason why you would be observing him so intently, at least not a plausible reason.

You played a song for him, and even though he had heard it a few times and not thought much of it, it sounded very different this time. He found it easy to let himself get lost in enjoying the lyrics with you, although when the car swerved he contemplated revoking your aux privileges indefinitely.

You had “rescued” Mikasa, and now Porco was ready to leave. But he couldn’t leave just yet without telling you goodbye.

“Bye, Y/N.” He called, noticing you were leaning against the car and not paying him any attention, mindlessly scrolling on your phone.

“Thanks. Bye.” You waved at him, still not looking up.

He rolled his eyes. How typical of you, stubborn as ever. He wasn’t sure he had ever met a person as arrogant.

He began the drive home in silence, but something came over him and he picked up the aux to play the song you liked.

He also realized he hadn’t hated the time he spent with you, if anything he had actually found some fun in it. He wondered if you could always be like that, and why it felt so much easier now to be with you than before. A small ember of hope began to grow in his chest that perhaps there was a connection there.

He only hoped you felt the same, and that he wasn’t just a fool looking too into things.

-

Once again, Porco did not expect to see you, but here you were. He had seen you as he rounded the corner, and let out a harsh laugh at the fucking irony. When he texted you last night, he expected some sweet, hot girl that Jean happened to bless him with. But instead he found you, the opposite of sweet shivering on the library’s steps with that hat you liked to wear. He wished Jean was in front of him so he could run him over a few times. If Porco wanted to ensure you’d never respect him, this just about sealed the deal.

He silently cursed at the thought of how he begged Marcel to let him borrow his car, and how he almost ran through every red light from Marcel’s apartment to make sure he wasn’t late in meeting Jean’s friend. Just for it to be you. When he had received Jean’s text requesting help he was at the gym, and for some reason he felt drawn to say yes. Even if Jean would have said you weren’t hot. But he was seriously reconsidering his life choices now that he saw it was you.

He still couldn’t resist teasing you at least once. Porco was averse to expressing weakness, so he was not about to let you know he was equally as shocked that it was you and not Jean’s imaginary friend.

Much to his amusement, you dropped your donut in shock when you saw it was him.

“You.” You scowled.

Porco smirked. “”Sup, princess. What’s the matter? Don’t like your driving teacher?” His tone oozed sarcasm, making your eye twitch. “And did you just drop your donut? What is it with you and dropping food? Butterfingers.” He grinned, amused at his own joke. It was a little too easy to rile you up.

When you turned on your heel to leave, Porco momentarily panicked. He didn’t beg Marcel for the car just to leave as soon as he got here. He honked, as he didn’t know what else to do.

You spun around and cursed at him. He brushed it off, way used to your foul mouth and sarcastic attitude to let it phase him.

Would it be the worst thing in the world if he taught you a few things about driving? According to you, you had no car at all. Maybe you couldn’t afford one. But still, it was wrong of Jean to lie to both of you, especially when neither of you could stand each other.

Somehow you ended up in his car. He didn’t think your stubborn ass would come in, but apparently the cold was worse than sitting next to him. He watched as you dialed Jean, failing. He tried, but as predicted Jean had made himself scarce.

You dialed someone else, and Porco managed to hear it was Connie, who apparently thought you were interested in him. Your flustered reaction amused him. Connie was a flirt and Porco was secretly proud that you rebuffed his advances.

“Who did Jean say I was?” You questioned.

Porco recalled Jean’s earlier message and responded by the nickname you apparently despised. If there was one thing he noticed it was that you were picky about nicknames and didn’t take too kindly to your last name or adjectives about your hair- something Porco didn’t understand, as he thought your hair was nice.

After you both discussed your next point of action, Porco grew intrigued as you suddenly began laughing. He thought you looked different when you smiled, and he momentarily swooned as your eyes crinkled around the corners and you were barely able to contain your laughs.

Before he knew it, he was stepping foot into the ice cream parlor Jean was employed at, and he felt silly having been baited by you so easily. He wasn’t complaining however, as the need to get revenge on Jean was stronger.

He watched as Jean flailed around, struggling to find an excuse for his actions. He watched you go back and forth with Jean, attempting to gauge your reaction.

He didn’t expect you to look at him for approval when Jean suggested his manipulative endeavor could work. He bit his lip, considering all his options.

Truthfully, Porco hadn’t minded as much as he thought he would. Sure, he was initially upset that he hadn’t at least been given a heads up. But Porco remembered how you could be bearable at times, and how a sliver of him had actually enjoyed the time he spent with you.

He voiced his concern, and to his horror Jean accused him of doing it for ulterior motives.

If Porco had to pinpoint when exactly his feelings of dislike for you changed, it would be the talk you shared in the booth. Porco had been able to put his inhibitions aside and seen you for you, not Mikasa’s roomie, or Jean’s friend, or even the annoying shrew from freshmen orientation. You, who knew enough about where Porco was coming from to make him question why he could ever be rude to you when you were kind at heart. You were able to pull out the vulnerable side of Porco he wasn’t used to displaying, and what concerned him more was that he didn’t mind- he strangely felt as if he could trust you.

There were obviously still some kinks to work out in your dynamic, if your first lesson was indicative of that. While Porco could admit there was more depth to you than he had begun to think, you were both so hot headed it was easy for you to clash. He claimed you lacked common sense, you claimed he was a crappy instructor. Then you refused to give him sweets, which were his ultimate weakness, and had gone a little too close to his jeans for his liking. But strangely you both agreed to more lessons, so he figured he had done something right.

He began to look forward to your rude texts reminding him to not be late or forget (which he never would) that would make him chuckle and his sarcastic replies that would secretly make you smirk. He would still drop a rude remark along the lines of “Don’t trip, curly fry” or “Geez, no sleep?” whenever he passed you up in the hallway, but there was none of the original snark behind it. No, Porco found it harder and harder each day to make you miserable. He didn’t want to act like he cared about you as much, but he wouldn’t exactly like to see you fail in life. Or something like that.

When you got up to leave the Student Center, Porco’s eyes slightly wandered down to your lower back… something he sometimes caught himself doing unintentionally. He always felt super guilty when he did, because he felt like he was being hypocritical. You were the girl he complained about so often his friends knew about you without even knowing you- how could he just oggle you like a piece of meat? But thankfully he did this time, because he caught a harsh red stain on your sweatpants and he rushed over to help you.

He should have known you would fight him every step of the way, and he thought he would pass out from the exertion of trying to formulate a way to explain to you what he just saw, or even why he noticed it. Thankfully, you didn’t ask.

Porco was no expert on the female anatomy and its mechanisms- a fact he would not admit unless held at gunpoint. So he wasn’t sure how to go about it now that you were wailing into the wall because apparently you were on your period. What was he supposed to do? He knew boyfriends usually got chocolate, or flowers, or something to help.

And then Porco froze, because he had to remind himself that he wasn’t your boyfriend.

He felt ridiculous having thought something like that. He offered the only thing he had in that moment- his jacket.

You stared at him with wide, gleaming eyes. He couldn’t bring himself to look at you, because he felt that if he did his expression would expose all the thoughts roaming through his mind right now. And he wasn’t sure if you would appreciate those thoughts, and that he was a creep for thinking them. Why did he think just because you were spending time with him he was entitled to a relationship with you? It was wrong, so wrong.

Why did he even want a relationship with you? He felt so conflicted that he himself might start wailing.

He ran off after you thanked him, too flustered to stop and process his emotions.

What you didn’t know is that after screaming in his car for a few seconds, he took off to the nearest convenience store determined to find your Midol. He didn’t know much about periods, but he knew you had said you needed it and he wasn’t sure you would be able to afford it yourself.

He walked into the store with a determined expression on his face. He had heard of some guys being embarrassed to buy products for their girlfriends, and while he never really understood the logistics behind that, he was certain he did not want to repeat it. You could buy period products and be manly. He was going to prove it.

But when he made it into the feminine hygiene aisle, he had to admit he did feel a bit out of place, as he received some glares from women and their young daughters. The tips of his ears and his nose burned red as he pretended to peruse the aisle, but he wasn’t able to locate the medication.

“Can I help you?” he heard a cheery voice ask, and he turned to greet the female worker who appeared to be about 16.

“I’m, uh-” He scratched the back of his neck, unsure of how to proceed with his odd request. “My friend- I’m looking for the Midol.” he whispered.

“What kind?” she replied, leading him to where he presumed the Midol resided.

“Um, the period kind.” He replied, his brow furrowing. Were there other types? How did girls do this so often?

The girl giggled, causing Porco to blush profusely. He had underestimated the humbling capabilities of a teenage girl.

“I meant like, what kind of milligrams or function. There’s 300, 600, 800. And there’s some targeted towards certain symptoms.”
Porco’s eyes widened. Was she being serious? There were many options to choose from? He would be stuck here all day.

“Um, which do you recommend?” he stuttered.

The girl eyed him suspiciously. “Everyone is different. Your friend didn’t tell you which one?”

Porco didn’t like her tone. He was starting to understand why people didn’t have kids. “No.” he snapped. “Look, this was- I’m just here, secretly. I don’t know what kind she uses. I’ll just get her chocolate or something.” He scrapped his original idea, hoping chocolate didn’t seem romantic or give you the wrong idea about his motives. He truly did just want to help you.

The girl sighed. “No, no. I get it. Well, if you’re not sure, I recommend the 600 milligrams. It’s pretty general, and if she doesn’t like them you can always come back.”

Porco nodded, grabbing them off the shelf. “Thanks.”

The girl nodded. She inhaled before speaking again. “You know, I’m sure your friend would appreciate the gesture, but if you want her to be more than your friend you should try actually asking her what she wants.”

Porco’s eye twitched. “Don’t you have to go to daycare or something?”

The girl frowned. “I was just saying. And school is out already.”

“Well, you should get a hobby or something. Instead of prying into people’s personal lives.” He grumbled, walking past her to go check out.

“This is my hobby, dude.” The girl called.

Porco ignored her, silently grumbling to himself about the youth of today.

That was when Porco realized you may have a tighter hold on him than he thought. He converted into a Karen for you, arguing with teens at the grocery store for your darned medicine.

When he got home, he carefully taped the cardboard box shut, and hastily scrawled your last name on the note. You would probably know it was him but he wanted to at least have some semblance of anonymity, as he was still at the point where the thought of doing anything remotely kind for you mortified him.

Later, when your inevitable text arrived, he visibly smiled. He was eating cereal while shirtless watching the game, his favorite college kid with no cooking skills meal and passtime, when his phone dinged. When he realized it was you he physically brightened, sitting up on the couch and actually looking away from the game he was watching.

y/n: i will gut you like a fish, Galliard.

He shook his head in amusement. That funny feeling that began growing in his chest when he spoke to you  recently was once again present. He began to suspect he wouldn’t be able to deny it much longer.

-

Porco knew he was an idiot. He knew he was brash and irrational. He knew he could be a dick, and he knew you were one of the few people who actively called him out on his bullshit. Did that stop him from poking the ant hill? No.

He thought you two were bonding, having a mutable connection. Your baking, as usual, was heavenly. And then he had felt off all day, whether it was defending you in the cafeteria and then the odd emotions he felt that led him to probe you about your male friendships. He was barely able to cover up his curiosity, and he felt you grow suspicious at his motives. He tried to play it off, hopefully you would forget about it and life would resume as normal. But no, you had to be stubborn. Typically you.

As usual he found himself doing weird things for you. He parked Marcel’s car and was intent on walking your ass home, but then Reiner had to show up.

This would have been prevented if you just let me drive you home, doofus. Porco mentally cursed.

Instead of disgust, Porco saw how hearts practically formed in your eyes. He swore you practically swooned over the big brute, and it’d be a lie if he said he felt anything except hurt.

It hurt him to see you so willingly go out with Reiner, because he was standing right there. Him, although he wasn’t 100% certain about his feelings, he who if you had asked him in that moment he would have taken you out instead. He just hadn’t realized it until now like the idiot he was. Once again, Porco was too slow.

He tried to continue as if he didn’t care. He even attempted to be lighthearted, asking you what you thought. But subtlety was not Porco’s strong suit, and it was obvious from the way you visibly grew offended at his digs at Reiner. That hurt him, too. How you were so predisposed to defend Reiner without even knowing him, and how he was sure you wouldn’t do the same for Porco.

There wasn’t really anything he could say about Reiner. He was strong, and rich, and he apparently knew how to treat a girl. But Porco knew you, and Porco knew you just wouldn’t be happy with him. Dare he say, he knew he could make you happier if you just gave him the chance.

And it scared him that he was thinking these thoughts about his own friend. Or about you, whom he had also grown to see as a friend. The fact that he wanted a chance should be enough proof that he was in too deep.

Of course you both ended up arguing. That was the normal thing about you two, the arguing, Porco wished it would change, but you knew just how to push his buttons, and vice versa.  What wasn’t normal however was the overwhelming urge he had to kiss you- to prove he was right about everything he was claiming in his mind. And what really wasn’t normal was that for once in your life, you obliged him.

You didn’t kiss back at first. Porco felt his stomach drop. Had he crossed a line? Did he push too far? But then you were kissing again, and this time he felt you meant it. He had never kissed anyone with so much emotion before. He didn’t think he could ever grow tired of it, and if you let him he’d kiss you more.

Then you were calling it nothing. Nothing. As if you hadn’t just knocked Porco off his axis entirely. As if you hadn’t just given him the single best kiss he’d had.

His jaw clenched as he tried to detain himself from begging you desperately to realize the effect you had on him. You drove him crazy. You made him believe he was crazy for even feeling this intensely about you.

Yet you had said your piece, and he wasn’t sure he could change your mind. So he agreed, too, his fear of losing you completely enough to silence what he really felt.

You were running away, and Porco was left to walk back to Marcel’s car in the cold, questioning when he had gotten to his point.

He barely slept that night, wondering if he would ever hear from you again. He questioned if the kiss had done more damage than good. He hoped you would suddenly admit you liked him, and you were just confused when you ran away. But his phone was silent for two days, no word from you.

One thing he was sure of was that he didn’t regret the kiss. Even if it was the last kiss he would ever give you, things had become so abundantly clear because of it. He now knew you wouldn’t be just a friend to him. Even if you never spoke, he knew what he had felt. And you were the reason.

-

Porco should have known going out with Hitch wouldn’t ease his mind off you. No, he had already had a taste and he didn’t think he would be able to give it up so easily. He knew he had messed up with you, but he still maintained the hope he would be able to recover the fragile friendship at least. But in a way only Porco could, he screwed up worse.

He laid on his bed staring at the dark ceiling and replaying the scene he had just witnessed. Truthfully, he held an inkling that maybe, just maybe, you weren’t talking about Reiner. But why wouldn’t it be? You had just gone on a date with him. He wondered if Hitch would be opposed to give him more advice, but then he ruled against it considering it was embarrassing for him to reach out for help. He had practically rushed her home to find you, only for him to fail? No, he’d have to play it off.

He didn’t even know if he had the right to confront you, considering you were pissed at him. You hadn’t messaged him in two excruciating days, and somehow it was worse than the two days after you had kissed.

Porco had prepared an entire speech to present to you about why and how he would treat you right, but when he finally got the chance to in the cafeteria after you stupidly tried to leave without eating, he choked. He choked and he was still upset about it. He just didn’t feel like you would accept it, and he didn’t want to pressure you. Porco didn’t believe that you owed him anything, so why even bring the thought of a date up? You had made it clear it was nothing. Nothing, even if to Porco it was the opposite.

Now it was radio silence. Not one text from you, not a story view, not even a glance in the hallway.

The sorry excuse of a date with Hitch turned out to prove his fears that he was in fact miserable without you. He tried to be upbeat and give Hitch his full attention, but he was stupid enough to ignore by now she was and never would be you. He distinctly remembered mentioning you on the car ride to the restaurant, and Hitch had shot him a look he couldn’t decipher. Then the fact dawned upon him that he was not being too sly about his obvious like for you.

It killed him to think he was so close to having you and with a few ill chosen words he had managed to lose you.

-

You sighed, mindlessly scribbling your pen on an old catalog. Jean watched you from across the counter, a perplexed expression on his long face.

“Are you okay, Y/N?” Jean whispered, leaning in closer to examine your reaction.

You snapped out of your mindless stare, blinking a few times as you processed Jean’s question. “What? Oh, yeah, I’m fine.”

“You’re so bad at lying.” Jean rolled his eyes. “But seriously, what’s going on in that dome of yours?” He lightly rapped his knuckles on your forehead, causing you to shove him away with a glare on your face.

“I’m fine. I’m just…thinking.” You mumbled. You had upgraded from scribbling to doodling tiny flowers all over the old catalog instead.

“That’s a first. What are you thinking about though?”

“Not what, who.” You blurted. Your eyes widened once you realized your mistake, and you covered your face with your hands. Jean smirked triumphantly. He enjoyed many things in life, but one of them included probing you about your horrible life choices.

“What ails you, sister in Christ?” Jean gripped your shoulders, rocking you back and forth.

“Ah, quit!” You shoved him harder this time, causing the lanky boy to nearly fall off his stool.

“That was literally attempted homicide.”

“Too bad it was only ‘attempted’.” You grumbled, earning an offended gasp from Jean.

“Tell meeee who you’re thinking aboutttt.” Jean begged, poking you repeatedly. Every passing second you were further convinced that men did not ever mentally mature past toddler age and that they were all working in unison to ensure the downfall of civilization with their behavior.

“If you poke me one more time I’m going to throw the register at you.” You snapped.

“I don’t believe you.” Jean narrowed his eyes at you. He was used to your empty threats of violence by now, so he knew how far he could push you. “And I know it’s not someone you want to admit you’re thinking about, because you’d be talking my ear off if it was.”

You scowled. He had a point. You had forgotten Jean could read you almost as well as Mikasa sometimes. “Whatever.” You eloquently responded.

“Yeah, whatever.” Jean mimicked you. “But cool, if you don’t want to tell your BEST FRIEND-”

“Mikasa’s my best friend.”

Jean’s jaw dropped. “What the hell? Since when?”

“Since when am I your best friend? What about Connie?”

“I’m not the one on trial right now!”

Nanaba suddenly rounded the corner, glaring at Jean. “You guys are so loud.” She exhaled roughly, already exasperated by Jean’s presence. She wondered how you put up with him everyday, or if she was just getting too old to deal with people younger than her.

“Nanaba, Y/N is thinking about people and won’t tell me who.” Jean ignored her obvious discontent for him. He got a little kick out of testing her.

Nanaba rolled her eyes, opening the register to check if the correct change was in place. “Good for her, I wouldn’t either.”

“No help at all.” Jean grumbled. “Fine, don’t tell me! But don’t be surprised if I guess who it is.”

You gave him a look. “Please don’t tell me you’re going to play a guessing game now.”

“Well, I can’t do that! Because I am!” Jean snapped. “Now guess one. Reiner.”

“Yes.” You flatly replied.

“Liar.” Jean hissed.

You rolled your eyes, turning your back to him as you pretended to check for something on the bulletin board behind you. If you stayed under Jean’s gaze a second longer, you would expose your blush and it would be a dead giveaway you weren’t being honest.

It’s not that you didn’t trust Jean, it’s just you weren’t 100% sure what you felt. And while Reiner was on your mind, it was someone else who took the majority of your mental space recently- Porco. Both males had you deep in thought, but both for different reasons.

“Hey, she’s coming back in a few.” Nanaba told you and Jean. She was referring to your rude manager, who had gone on “lunch break” which was code for she went home early.

“Say less.” Jean huffed, getting off his stool and handing it to you over the counter. It always surprised you how he managed to lift it with such ease over the counter and into your hands as if it weighed nothing, which perhaps it didn’t to him. “Y/N, we’ll have to resume this little chat later.”

“I’m good, but thank you.” You chuckled.

“No options.” Jean pointed with a long finger. “No choice.”

“Sure.” You replied unenthusiastically.

Then he was gone, the bell chiming overhead to signal his departure.

“She’s literally done for today.” You turned to Nanaba.

Nanaba smirked. “I know. But I could tell you needed an exit.”

You shook your head, a small laugh escaping your lips. You felt bad, but it was true. Jean’s line of questioning was making you anxious. You were not ready to face the consequences of your actions just yet. You knew all you had to do was take the first leap- just tell Porco what you felt. Finding a way to do that was the issue.

“But is he right? You thinkin’ about someone?” Nanaba asked, watching you from the corner of her eye.

You sighed, resting your chin on your hand. “Yeah. It’s… complicated.”

Nanaba let out a low whistle. “Been there, done that. I’ll tell you this- it’s always the one you didn’t see coming. They sneak up on you.”

“Huh.” You crossed your arms, reflecting on her odd advice. “What makes you say that?”

Nanaba shrugged. “Like I said, been there, done that. Or maybe I just had a feeling. So, is it that Reiner guy you were gushing about the other day?” She leaned back on the counter, facing you with a curious look.

You bit your lip. “Actually, no.”

Nanaba chuckled. “Damn, kid, you got game. So there’s another guy?”

You felt heat rise to your face at her crass remark. You didn’t have game. You just… attracted Reiner, and possibly Porco at the same time..

But that was the thing. You ever only focused on one. “No, there’s not.” You exhaled.

Nanabe raised an eyebrow. “Wow, okay. Well… I’m sure whatever you do you will be the right choice. S’Long as you do it from the heart. And you’re smart. I doubt you’ll mess it up too bad.”

“Thank you,” You felt uncomfortable accepting praise knowing you still hadn’t resolved anything with either of them. You haven’t spoken to Reiner, besides a few goodmorning texts, nor Porco, who was completely silent.  “But I think it’s easier said than done.”

“The best things in life come free and easy. That’s just my opinion. Oldheads and corporations will tell you it should be earned, but fuck them, they’re not making minnimum wage like we are. We can’t afford to be experimenting with love and shit.”

Her small speech earned a laugh out of you, which in turn made her snort at her own anecdote.  You supposed it was true. Whoever said love was easy was wrong, but knowing you love someone shouldn’t be this hard.

-

Midterms were officially over, and Christmas was just around the corner. The streetlights were decorated with red peonies and twinkling lights as a flurry of students prepared to head home for winter break, away from the stress of academia.

Meanwhile, you contemplated Nanaba’s advice and how you were going to speak to Reiner. You had come to the decision that you would go through with telling Porco how you felt after all, even if what you felt was a blur of emotions you couldn’t quite name just yet. You still hoped he would understand and reciprocate those feelings as well, and you felt a little bounce in your step as you began working on what you would say to him when you saw him.

Porco, on the other hand, was plotting his own scheme. Yes, Christmas was right around the corner, and even though you weren’t on speaking terms nor did he know of your feelings, he wanted to get you something.  He doubted you would accept it, but he figured it was worth trying.

You had both had a conversation a few weeks prior about shoes and shoe sizes, which as usual resulted in banter and slight disagreement. You had mocked his choice of shoes, and he in turn had interrogated you about what made you so qualified to judge footwear. He had gotten you to share your shoe size, which made Porco chortle and call you “Sasquatch” (even if your foot was no bigger than his.) You added that your choice of footwear was Converse, and then the idea began forming in Porco’s mind.

He questioned why he was even going through with it, when you probably wanted nothing to do with him. Even though Porco could be a petty, stubborn fool, he cared about you, and he cared about your well being. He wasn’t sure if you were heading home for Christmas, which is why he needed to ensure you got it in time.

When he was done, he knocked on your dorm room door when he knew you were in class. A sleepy Mikasa answered it, staring at him with her signature neutral look on her face.

“Hey,” Porco breathed. “Just woke up?”

Mikasa blinked in disbelief. She wasn’t sure what she was seeing was reality or if she was still dreaming. She hoped it was the latter, because if not then that means she was awake two hours before her class, and that wasn’t something anyone wanted to witness.

“Um, is Y/N here?” Porco forgot how unsettling Mikasa could be when she was serious.

“No.” She replied drily. “But I’ll tell her you stopped by.” She began shutting the door when Porco shouted, “No!” And stupidly put his fingers in the door, managing to get them squished.

“What the hell? Why’d you do that for?” She scolded, observing Porco’s pinched expression. He tightly gripped his smushed fingers, his pain visible on his face as he attempted to soothe the red throbbing on his extremities. His face was red too, the exertion of not releasing a string of curses causing him to breathe manually. “Why’d you shut it so fast for?” Porco snapped.

Mikasa pursed her lips. “Why are you here? So early? You woke me up.”

Porco hissed as his fingers pounded. He groaned at the sight of how swollen they had become. “It’s- ah- It’s one in the afternoon.”

Mikasa remained unfazed. “What do you want?”

Porco sighed. “Can I get ice or something?”

Mikasa wordlessly turned around and into the kitchen, so Porco followed her because he assumed he was supposed to. He shut the door behind him with his foot, gripping his affected hand in his other one after he placed his bag on the floor.

“Here.” Mikasa slid an ice pack covered in paper towel towards him. “Use it wisely.”

“Yeah, thanks.” Porco muttered, grabbing it.

“Why are you here?” Mikasa repeated.

“Geez, give me a second.” He glared at her. The truth was he didn’t even  know where to begin. He hadn’t exactly thought his conversation with Mikasa out. He didn’t know where to start. “You sure like to get to the point, huh?”

Mikasa nodded, tracing the design in the counter with her finger. “Yeah, and I’m surprised you don’t. You’re usually so blunt.”

Porco chuckled. She had a point there. “Okay, um… I just,” He sighed, looking down to avoid her intense stare. The girl was observative as hell, and he felt she could see right through him. “I need your help.”

“With?”

Porco bit his lip before he weakly responded, “With her.”

“Y/N?” She responded without missing a beat.

“Yeah.” Porco mumbled.

“Okay.” Mikasa replied.

“You don’t even know what I need help with exactly!” Porco finally glanced at her.

Mikasa shrugged. “It’s Y/N. I’ll help you as long as it makes her happy.”

“How do you know what I’m asking you will make her happy?” Porco cocked an eyebrow.

Mikasa’s expression gave nothing away. “I doubt you have bad intentions.”

Porco accepted her answer. If she was so certain, he would have to take her word that he wouldn’t be offending you with his actions.

“Okay, well, I just ask that you could not mention this to her. And just, you know, make sure she gets it for Christmas. Please, Mikasa.” It was then that Mikasa saw the box he pulled out of his shopping bag, and she visibly softened.

“Alright, I will.” She nodded.

“You promise?” Porco looked at her with hopeful eyes.

Mikasa nodded again. “I’ll give it to her. But why don’t you want her to know it was you?”

Porco sighed. “I don’t think she wants anything to do with me.”

Mikasa shook her head. “You don’t know that.”

“Do you?” Porco shot back.

She bit her lip, not meeting his gaze. Mikasa would never betray you, and she wouldn’t tell your secrets to Porco especially without your consent. But she knew you were both so clueless, she began to wonder if either of you would ever figure your childish feelings out. She didn’t plan on exposing anything to him, but her hesitation tipped Porco off that there was something she wasn’t telling him.

“You do?” Porco felt the small flame of hope growing again when he watched her stoic expression convert into a bashful one, barely meeting his eyes.

“I can’t tell you anything.” Mikasa muttered.

Porco scoffed. “At least tell me if I have a chance here, Mikasa.”

She stared at him for a long, cold second. Then she slyly nodded, so much that Porco wouldn’t have caught it if he hadn’t been scrutinizing her appearance.

Porco felt the grin forming on his face grow wider. “I have a chance.”

“I didn’t say that.” Mikasa mumbled.

“I have to go, I have to do this the right way.” Porco hastily got off his stool, his swollen hand long forgotten. He was heading to the doorway before he turned back to face her. “And thank you, a lot. I… I care about her. So much.”

The corner of Mikasa’s lip twitch into an almost imperceptible smile. “Yeah, I think you do.”

Porco smiled at her, rushing out the door to his dorm so he could plan how he was going to win you back.

-

You, however, had beat him to it. For the majority of your shift you contemplated your next move, and then a sense of boldness washed over you that determined you were going to march up to Porco’s dorm and just lay it out flat for him. You would tell him what you felt and if he wanted to be with you then so be it. You were tired of this charade you both kept going, and you were determined to put a stop to it now.

You felt a renewed sense of freedom in your veins as you walked in brisk steps to the dorms.The thought of finally confessing to Porco what you felt exhilarated you and you swore it put a little more ‘pep’ in your step as you walked towards what was sure to be either your best decision yet or a very big embarrassment. But you had nothing else to lose. You liked Porco Galliard and that was that.

Once you arrived at the dorm, you took a deep breath before knocking on the door, perhaps a bit too harshly because you heard rustling and some bumps as you assumed Porco rushed to open the door.

You could feel your confession on your tongue, just ready to slip out. You would speak with dignity and ease, nothing could shake your confidence-

But then she opened the door.

“Hi, can I help you?” She giggled.

You felt as if your heart had just shattered, all the jagged pieces piercing your soul.

The girl stared at you with pretty wide eyes, a playful smile on her plump lips. She was leaning against the doorframe, and you couldn’t help but run your eyes over her, examining what exactly she had that you didn’t.

Her hair was long and straight, much like her body as she leaned against the door frame clad in an unbuttoned long button up shirt that exposed her sports bra, and tiny shorts that left little to the imagination.

You hadn’t pegged Porco’s type to be someone like her, but once again he had surprised you.

And once again Porco Galliard had enraged you.

“I’m looking for Porco.” You managed to choke out. You self consciously crossed your arms.

Why did you think you could ever compare to the type of girls Porco liked? This girl was gorgeous, a model. You had been stupid for thinking he would be in love with you, or wanted anything to do with you.

“Porco?” The girl repeated. She giggled, looking over her shoulder. You tried to catch a glimpse at who she was whispering to, but you could only make out shoes on the floor in front of the couch… Porco’s shoes.

“He’s not here.” The girl pouted, turning back to you. “He just left.”

Sure he did. You wanted to yell. He wants nothing to do with me, huh?

“Do you want me to leave him a message?” She tilted her head to the side, a sympathetic expression on her irritatingly beautiful face.

“N-no, thank you. Just… please don’t tell him I stopped by, okay? Thanks.” Your voice visibly cracked, and the girl’s eyes gleamed with worry.

“Are you sure, though? Is everything alright?” She stepped forward, and the shirt’s collar slid down to reveal her neck, covered in hickeys.

You felt your resolve cracking, and you wanted nothing more than to run away to the safety of your dorm. But you responded weakly, a fake smile plastered on your face to convince the incessantly nice girl. “No, thank you. I was just… doing some surveys.” You blurted out the first lie that came to mind.

“Oh, well okay. Sorry!’ She smiled apologetically before stepping back to shut the door.

You waved at her as she shut the door, and once you heard the click you ran as fast as your feet could carry you, tears running freely down your face.

You entered your dorm and hastily shut the door, sniffling.

“Y/N?” Armin’s concerned voice reached your ears.

You froze in place. You had forgotten Eren and Armin were coming over today to study with Mikasa. Now they were all sitting on the couch, textbooks open in their lap and staring at you with wide, shocked eyes as you turned to face them with mascara running down your cheeks.

“I’m fine.” You smiled.

They shared a look.

“You don’t look fine.” Eren blurted.

You were trembling, the run to the dorm had made your hair frizzy and you were pretty sure you had a hysterical look in your eye. Upon hearing Eren’s skeptical tone and their shocked expressions, you felt your control slip away and you released a loud wail that made Eren wince in regret of having sent you over the edge.

Mikasa swatted his arm before rushing over to hug you, and Armin glared at a bewildered Eren who held his hands up in surrender.

“I’m sorry!” He exclaimed.

You wailed into Mikasa’s embrace as she rubbed your back, Armin coming up behind her to offer you a tissue. You cried and cried, the hurt of having been betrayed and too late to realize your crush on Porco weighing on you.

“I’m so stupid.” You cried. You were pretty sure you looked the most unattractive you could appear, but your hurt ran so deep it didn’t even phase you.

“No, you’re not.” Mikasa negated firmly. “You’re not stupid.”

“He’s-he’s with someone else.” You hiccuped.

“Who? Reiner?” Mikasa questioned, pulling back to grip your shoulders and inspect your face.

“No!” You shook your head as you began to cry harder.

Mikasa sighed, pulling you back into her embrace again. Armin rubbed your shoulder as you accepted the tissue over Mikasa’s shoulder, blowing your nose which was leaking snot.

“Who did this? Do we need to go fuck him up?” Eren got up, quick to anger as usual.

You simply shook your head in reply, squeezing your eyes shut.

God, when had you become so pathetic? Crying over a boy who expressed his dislike for you since day one, who made it abundantly clear he did not want you. You had only yourself to blame.

But if that was true then why did he kiss you? You wanted to let out a guttural scream from the anger you felt forming in your heart. He was just so.. So… infuriating. He was the worst person you had ever met. You hated him. You wished he would disappear. You wished you could disappear, go back and erase ever having met him. This was his plan all along, luring you into a false sense of friendship only to pull the rug out from under you. You were sure of it.

You never wanted to see Porco Galliard again.

-

Porco entered his apartment to the sound of screaming, and used to it by now he covered his eyes with his palm and retreated into the hallway while Colt’s girlfriend (for the life of him he could never remember her name) got decent enough for him to enter. Once Colt opened the door with at least the courtesy to act sheepish, he simply shook his head and went straight to his room. He would usually stick around and hear Colt’s lame apology for always forgetting to give him a head’s up that he needed privacy, but today he needed to get to work. He had begun planning how he would confess to you, and he didn’t have a minute to waste. For all he knew Reiner’s pathetic ass could be all up in your messages right now, and he prayed you wouldn’t accept whatever the meathead was offering. Sure, Reiner was rich, but he would never have half the brain to treat you like Porco could. And Porco was determined to prove that to you.

Colt knocked lightly on his door before entering. “Hey, man.”

“Yes?” Porco swiveled in his chair to face him.

“Marie and I were going to get some dinner.” So that was her name. “You wanna come?”

Porco shook his head. “I’m good, thanks though.”

Colt nodded, stepping out. Then he returned abruptly, an “Oh” leaving him. “By the way, someone came looking for you.”

Porco’s eyebrows furrowed. “Really?”

“Yeah,” Colt nodded, scratching his head. “Marie answered. It was weird, apparently they were doing surveys. But they didn’t ask us anything.”

“Huh.” Porco felt a light turn on in his mind, but he ignored it as he couldn’t think of why that would alarm him. “You sure it was for me?”

Colt shrugged. “Marie said they asked for you by name. I didn’t know they were doing surveys, though!” He leaned back on the door handle with one hand, about to leave.

“By name? Yeah, that is weird. You think it was a Jehovah’s Witness?”

Colt chuckled. “Don’t think so, they left once she told them you weren’t here. But man, if it was a scam they really are getting smarter with obtaining our info. I don’t know how they even got your name.”

Porco bit his lip in thought. That was odd. “Damn. I guess we just have to make sure to lock the doors well before we go.”

Colt laughed, turning to leave. “Alright, man. See you!”

“Bye!’ Porco turned back to his desk, typing away at his computer for ideas to impress you.

-

A few days passed, and you had begun packing to leave for home in two days. You hadn’t initially planned on leaving so early, but after the humiliation you suffered with that asshole you decided you needed the break. You had completed your semester, and there was really nothing else for you to do on campus besides go home. You requested a few days off, and after your last shift you would be gone.

Mikasa, Eren and Armin would be going to their shared hometown as well. They had invited you along, and you considered joining them after the main holiday passed, perhaps celebrating New Years. You had heard from Armin Eren’s mom Carla was the best, a stark contrast from Eren, and you were curious to see where your bestfriends had grown up. You yourself were from a town not too far from Shiganshina, and they offered to come pick you up.

You had kept in contact with the owner of the mini cooper, a lawyer named Erwin, up until now. But you weren’t sure if you would ever fully learn how to drive manual. You asked him for a few weeks to make your decision, and he obliged, reiterating his promise that he would hold it for as long as you needed.

So you felt ready to enter the next semester, hopefully refreshed. Yet the thought of Porco, and what could have been lingered in your mind, nagging at you especially at night whenever you were about to doze off. You didn’t understand why it was so hard to forget the idiot. You never even dated him, he should be forgettable. Apparently that’s not how your heart was taking it.

You had even ghosted Reiner for afew days. But you ended up responding to his various texts about how your day was, what you were doing… a pretty boring conversation if you were being honest, but you didn’t have the heart to tell him you weren’t interested in a relationship right now. Although you weren’t sure if Reiner was even interested in one either.

It was another slow day at work, as many customers had gone to visit family for the season and most of your coworkers took their days off already. Nanaba wasn’t there, nor was Jean, as the ice cream parlor closed earlier than the store. You were playing a game on your phone when the bell chimed, and when you looked up you spotted Hitch, walking in with a head to toe fur outfit.

“Oh, hey!” She greeted, spotting you at the register. “You work here?”

You shyly nodded, placing your phone in your apron pocket. Hitch was intimidating, and you hadn’t spoken to her since you had eavesdropped on her conversation with Mina and Hannah. You supposed now you could explain why that image of Hitch with Porco brought out something ugly in you.

“Cool. I just need some fabric.” She scanned the aisle numbers.

“It’s in aisle 4.” You pointed. “Everything is 25% off.”

“Awesome, thanks.” Hitch smiled, walking to the aisle.

You suddenly felt very anxious. You had seen Hitch with Porco a few times, and you figured she had already made her move. You secretly wondered if she was here to rub it in your face that she had managed to get with him. You then discarded the thought, feeling guilty that Hitch would be that malicious. She was a gossip, but she was never rude to your face.

After a few minutes she came back, setting a large spool of pink satin fabric on the conveyor belt.

“This is pretty.” You commented, scanning it.

Hitch grinned. “Thanks! I’m gonna make a skirt for Christmas. Broke college kid things.” She giggled.

You chuckled, inputting your own discount on top of the price. It wasn’t much, but you were in solidarity with her being able to relate to the broke college kid struggle. You weren’t allowed to give your discount to anyone but family, but they wouldn’t find out. You were the only one on the floor anyways. “You make clothes? That’s really cool.”

Hitch shrugged, a tiny smile on her pretty face. “I’m learning. So far I’ve managed to make a few items that haven’t fallen apart.”

You laughed again, handing her the bag with the fabric. “What else can you ask for? That’s more than I could make.”

Hitch giggled. “You’re funny. But yeah, I don’t think I’ll be the next Donatella Versace with these skills.”

You waved your hand, leaning back on the wall. You figured you could kill some time with Hitch. “Who needs another Versace?”

She shook her head. “You’re right. So, what are your plans for the holidays?”

You sighed, inspecting a stray curl with your finger. “The usual, visiting family. I might go with my roommate’s family for New Years. They live in Shiganshina.”

“Mikasa, right?” Hitch picked up a flower pen on display, observing its paper tissue petals. Itt was a bit overpriced in your opinion for something you could make with tissue paper and glue, but you weren’t the one in charge of products anyways. If you were, you’d like to think more people would actually buy the items.

“Yep.” You confirmed. “What about you?”

“So you don’t plan on hanging out with Porco?” Hitch asked nonchalantly, catching you completely off guard and disregarding your question.

“Uh-I… excuse me?” You stammered You were appalled at her boldness, but then again it was Hitch, who was known for her bravery.

Hitch looked up from the flower pen she had been observing too intently, and raised her eyebrows at you, urging you respond.

“I- why are you asking that?” You felt your face burning with heat. So she had come to gloat? You didn’t even mention him. What was going on?

“Relax, girl.” Hitch placed the pen back. “I’m just sayin’. I think you really underestimate yourself. I don’t wanna say too much. But he really likes you.”

You couldn’t believe what you were hearing. And truthfully, you were slightly infuriated. Not only had she shown up at your workplace, she was lying to you about something she didn’t know anything about?

“Yeah, right. Why are you telling me this?” You frowned, crossing your arms defensively.

Hitch sighed. “Let’s just say what was supposed to be a date turned out to be a therapy session. Look, Y/N, I promise I don’t want Porco. I mean I did. But I borderline forced him to take me out, and literally thirty minutes in you were the subject of conversation.”

You stared at her, trying to find any signs of deception in her body language or attitude. You didn’t find any, only sincerity.

“It’s true.” She reassured you once she saw your skeptical expression. “That boy doesn’t want anyone but you. And I know I said I wouldn’t say much, but we both know he’s literally incapable of expressing himself and I’m not exactly one to shut up easily. But I promise I won’t mention I told you this if you really don’t want me to. I just thought you should know, before you both did something stupid.”

Yeah, too late for that. You thought bitterly. Plus, who was Hitch to even be meddling in your business like this? You didn’t trust her intentions, and if Porco had taught you anything besides driving it was that just because someone appeared nice, it didn’t guarantee they wouldn’t stick the knife in your back.

“Also, the date was completely my doing. I think he only agreed because he felt bad. Which is pathetic.” She admitted bashfully, her cheeks growing a rosy pink. You wished you could look like that when you blushed, instead you looked like a tomato.

You softened a bit at her words, but your guard was still up. After the week you just had, you found it hard to believe something so easily anymore.

“Well, thanks. But forgive me if I’m still in disbelief.”

Hitch frowned. “Why? You’re hot, you’re smart- that’s already too good for Porco!’

You chuckled. “Thanks? You are, too, Hitch. I’m sure you could do much better than that douche.”

“Oh, I know.” HItch nodded. “But I think he actually cares about you.”

You sighed, still unsure of what to respond.

“Look, just keep that in mind before you decide to like, commit to Reiner or something, okay? Reiner’s pretty and all, but I don’t think there’s even half an ounce of the passion Porco has for you.”

You blushed at her words. What if what she was saying was true?

What would it be like to have someone care about you that much?

“Okay, I will.” You nodded. “Thank you.”

Hitch brushed your gratitude off with a hand. “Don’t mention it. I’m gonna head out now, I think I’ve meddled enough for a day.”

You giggled. At least she was self aware.
She waved at you before turning to exit, when suddenly an idea came to your mind.

“Hitch, wait!’ You called.

She turned to face you, a curious look on her face. “Yeah?”

“If you’re looking for someone,” You grabbed a post it and the flower pen to write with. “Or you just want someone to talk to, I might know a guy.”

“Ooh, really?” she rushed over. “Is he hot?’

You nodded, giggling as you pulled out your phone to show her pictures from Jean’s profile.

Hitch “oohed” and “ahhed” appreciatively, and once you saw she was interested, you wrote down Jean’s number for her.

Sure, Jean was annoying, but he had been there for you and even if Porco had turned out to be an asshole (although that was apparently now up for debate) he had done everything with intentions to help you. You figured the least you could do was pay him back.

-

You were heading home, mindlessly scrolling through your playlist. After closing the shop and treating yourself to a bus ride home, you had made it back to the dorms a few minutes earlier than usual.

You entered the elevator, mentally going over what you needed to pack for your trip. You had decided to join Mikasa and Eren after all, and you were looking forward to it, but that meant you needed to add some more suitable wardrobe that wasn’t just pajamas and a comfy sleep shirt you were used to wearing with your parents. You considered if a dress was in your budget.

Suddenly, a hand shot through the closing elevator doors, and a very familiar voice called “Wait!”

The doors shot open and lo and behold, Porco was once again standing behind the doors. When he saw you he looked taken aback as if he had been shot.

“Hey.” He exhaled, as if in disbelief it was really you.

You felt a swirl of emotions after having seen him after so long. You wanted to punch him, to hug him, to kiss him, to run away. Hitch’s entire speech about him went out the window as you made eye contact with the boy who had broken your heart in such a short span of time, his hair gelled back as usual and in his disgusting bomber jacket.

So you leaned over and pressed the close door button.

“Woah, hey!’ Porco shoved the doors apart, giving you a look of shock. “What was that for?”

You shrugged wordlessly, pretending to scroll through your feed. If he had observed you closer he would be able to tell you were too enraged to actually focus on the media infront of you.

“Um, how have you been?” He awkwardly questioned, facing you. You didn’t look up to face him, which Porco figured he deserved. But when you didn’t respond he frowned. He had an inkling you would be upset with him after the last time you spoke, but to go so far as to ignore him was something Porco didn’t think you would have punished him with.

“Okay, so I guess we’re going to do that now.” Porco nodded, turning to face the elevator. “But can I just ask you something?”

You clenched your jaw. “In order for it to be both of us, you need to be quiet, too.”

Porco held back the violent urge to smirk. He just knew you couldn’t resist the bait of correcting him or going against his word. “There she is.”

You glared at him. The elevator dinged, and as you made your move to get out Porco blocked your exit.

“Seriously?” You snapped. “You’re gonna hold me hostage?”

Porco rolled his eyes. “No, but can you please just hear me out?”

You pushed past him. “I have nothing to say to you.”

“Why not?” he followed your brisk pace.

You spun around, lightly shoving his toned chest. “Why are you chasing me? Don’t act like you even cared about me-my friendship.” You corrected yourself.

Porco caught your slip though, and he grabbed your wrist with a raised eyebrow. His grip reminded you of all those times he stopped you from walking away, and you wondered why this had become a norm for you two.

“Let me go,” you mumbled softly, pulling your arm with barely any conviction.

“Y/N, I just want to talk, please.” He repeated with more intensity. “I think we both have things we want to say to each other.”

“No!” You exclaimed. “Just go. I’m sure you’re doing just fine.” You twisted out of his grip.

“Why is it so hard to believe I actually don’t hate you?” Porco let out an exasperated breath. “Why won’t you accept I might actually-”

“Just save it. Don’t you have girls to go sleep with or something?” The sentence was leaving your lips before you could detain yourself.

Porco let out a breath as if he had been punched. Which in a way, he had been. He didn’t expect you to be this upset still. “Do you think that low of me?” He questioned.

“I don’t know what to think. I don’t know you.” You muttered. “I have to go.”

You turned and walked to your room, and this time Porco didn’t chase you. If you didn’t want anything to do with him, then he would oblige you.

-

Christmas came and went, and you spent New Years with Mikasa, Eren and Armin. Armin was right, Carla Yeager was the coolest mom you’d ever met. You began questioning how Eren came from her, a thought that apparently everyone had had at least once according to Armin.

“Mom.” Eren complained when she had pinched his cheeks as she dropped you all off at the train station.

“You shush, I don’t care if you’re not under my roof anymore, you’re still my baby.” Carla scolded him.

On that note, you boarded the train and were on your way back to Trost.

“I can’t wait to go home to my twin bed and kitchen with no air fryer.” Eren sarcastically commented. He was clutching his childhood Pikachu plushie that he had left behind the day he moved in.

“And my shitty paycheck.” You added.

“And hours of studying.” Armin groaned.

“And Goose!” Mikasa perkily commented. Your heart swelled at the thought of being reunited with your ball of fluff, who you had entrusted to a luxury animal resort for the break. If you were going on vacation, he would be too. Plus, you couldn’t take him home, as he would for sure escape.

“New year, new semester, new experiences.” Armin affirmed. For some reason he was positive this would be the year, You didn’t have the heart to tell him that for yourself you doubted the new year would bring you anything but more heartbreak. Yes, you were upset about Porco still, and you thought the extended break would be enough to get over him. Just your luck, it was not. The damned blonde did not leave your mind for more than a few hours, and  part of you guiltily admitted you were kind of hopeful to see him.

The last time you had spoken you had been so hurt and angry that you could admit you were irrational. Sometimes your mind would wander to what if you had heard him out, but there was no use in pondering what could have been. Besides, it had been almost a month, and as you were learning a lot could change then. You didn’t know what would await you once you got home.

As for Reiner, he had more or less gone ghost. You figured he was just busy with family and the holidays, so you didn’t blame him. If anything you were secretly a little grateful for the break. It allowed you time to think about your next steps.

Well, there was no use dwelling over either of them. You were determined to get good grades, save up some good money, and have fun. Just because you were sad didn’t mean you couldn’t fake it until you weren’t.

-

You arrived at campus amongst the many other returning students. Even on the train platform, you had run into a group of people from your college, although most of them were friends with Eren. He was the social butterfly of you three.

You ran into Connie, Jean and Sasha. Once again, you were reminded of how much could change in a month. Jean’s mullet was gone, a fact which saddened you, and Connie was no longer bald. You had to pick up your jaw multiple times off the ground as he showed off his progress. Sasha was more or less the same, except she had gotten a new tattoo and she was talking to a guy named Niccolo. Eren had also grown himself a man bun (a change Carla hated), while Armin chopped off most of his hair.

They commented on your appearance as well. Your hair had grown longer, but it was healthier. You had managed to resist the temptation of ironing your hair everyday and it had been worth the effort. Your hair needed the respite, and in return your curls grew healthier.

After conversing for a few more minutes you all began the trek to your respective rooms, but Jean fell behind and pulled you aside, nearly toppling your luggage.

He helped settle you and you questioned why he pulled you out from the group.

“So I’ve been meaning to tell you thanks,” Jean grinned. “I was told you put in a good word about me to Hitch.”

You smirked. “Oh, yeah? Who’s your source?”

Jean’s grin deepened. “Guess.”

“Goose.” You teased. Speaking of Goose, you had to pick him up tomorrow once the coast was clear of nosy RA’s.

Jean rolled his eyes. “No, doofus. Hitch. We’ve been talking ever since I went home.”

“That’s great, Jeanbo.” You nudged him. “At least that worked out.”

Jean nodded. “Yeah. I’m really sorry about it not working out with Porco, by the way. I swear I didn’t mean to-”

You cut him off by holding a hand up. “It’s okay, seriously. Just… don’t bring him up.’”

Jean nodded solemnly. “Well, Hitch and I have plans to hang out once we get settled back on campus. Methinks it should go well.”

You visibly cringed. “Don’t ever say that again.”

He snorted.

“Pick up the pace, slowasses!” Eren yelled over his shoulder.

Jean grabbed the handle of your luggage. “You are being slow.”

You scowled. “I’m carrying two full sized suitcases.”

“Jesus! Did you pack for a year?” He rolled your heavy suitcase back and forth, confirming that it was in fact too big for just a month. What could you say? You didn’t travel much and you tended to overpack when you did.

You shrugged as Jean walked ahead of you, rolling his and yours suitcase in each hand. YOu pushed your sunglasses up the bridge of your nose as you walked in stride, the sun beating down on Paradis University in yellow streaks. It was a beautiful day to return to the hellhole of dorm living.

As you entered the mass of people inside the lobby, your phone vibrated. You pulled it out and pushed your sunglasses up to your hair to read who had texted you.

Reiner: hey y/n :) how have you been? just got back on campus.

Well, he certainly wasted no time in contacting you, just as you thought. You tried to hide the disappointment when you saw it was him, and not Porco.

You would text him back later, as right now Jean had apparently ran over Connie’s suede shoes with the suitcases and the girls were attempting to prevent a full on braul from happening during return/move in day. You rushed over to help, holding back giggles as you observed the boy’s extreme reactions.

Later, once everyone had gone to their dorms and had returned to their routine (and Connie and Jean agreed to not fight and cause a huge embarrassment to everyone), you sat on your bed doing a facemask, thinking of how to respond to Reiner. You couldn’t exactly just send him a text that said “hey dude, sorry but i actually don’t like you all too much! Sorry, bye <3” so you attempted to preserve the friendship at least. Finally deciding you couldn’t really fuck it up that much you sent him a reply.

hey! sorry for the late response, i just got settled haha

Almost instantly, Reiner’s response came in.

haha i understand

so what are you up to saturday? it’s our last weekend before class starts

i’m aware lol. and probably nothing, i hadn’t really planned on celebrating it

It was true. You thought you had partied enough for a month, and nobody besides Eren or Jean really invited you to anything party like. You usually always declined though, as you didn’t have time or energy.

well my friend colt is having an end of semester get together, i was wondering if you wanted to be my date?

i know it’s kind of weird, you don’t have to say yes

Fuck. You contemplated what to say. You could always decline. But Reiner was being so nice. And it wasn’t exactly a party. He said get together. You didn’t know this Colt person, though, so you felt odd intruding. But if Reiner was inviting you, it was because he could.

isn’t it kind of late for an end of semester party? lol

Reiner: true, but that’s just colt. late to everything. Lol

Reiner: it starts at 8. we don’t have to stay the whole time

Fuck again. He was insistent, so you figured he really wanted you to go for some reason. Why couldn’t you like him? It would have been so easy to say yes.

You then recalled some advice you had read one article when you were scrolling through your phone one night at your parent’s house, Porco invading your mind for the upteenth time that day.

How I Got Over Him was the title, and you were intrigued when it came up in your feed. Apparently it was effective, because a lot of people shared their support.

Rule #3- Say ‘Yes’ to Every Outing

After a breakup, it can be hard to go to your local coffee shop, listen to your favorite artist, or take your dog for a walk without your former partner if those are the things you used to do to bond. But use this opportunity to create new memories of your own that aren’t tied to your ex.

Spending time traveling and surrounding myself with friends and family and exciting experiences helped. Keeping busy helps.

You were skeptical at first. How could going out be beneficial to heartache? But after a few weeks reconnecting with your own hometown friends and the week in Shiganshina, you began feeling a bit better about your situation. It was probably pathetic that you grieved this loss of contact so much, considering it was your decision and you never even dated Porco. But to say it didn’t hurt would be a lie.

Deciding to let the impulsive behavior you’d been displaying recently take over you once again, you texted Reiner back.

sure, i’d love to :) just let me know what tim e.

-

Saturday had arrived, and you found yourself scrutinizing up to the last detail of your appearance in the mirror. Reiner was a few minutes away, and you were beginning to regret your decision to accept his invite.

“You look good.” Mikasa spoke from behind you.

You sighed. “You don’t think I’m too overdressed?”

Mikasa shook her head. “Nah.”

You were wearing a short dress that hugged your figure with some comfortable platform boots you had bought on sale at your hometown mall. You weren’t going to be style icon of the university, but it was a step up from your usual attire. You felt like you had to look your best for Reiner, even if you weren’t too convinced you looked good. The only thing you weren’t willing to compromise on was straightening your hair. Today your curls were big, bouncy and not too frizzy. You didn’t feel like crushing them under a flat iron.

There was a knock on your door, and that was your signal to go. After exchanging pleasantries with Mikasa again, Reiner escorted you to the elevator, because apparently the party was on the same floor as your dorm.

“How come I’ve never met this guy, Colt?” You inquired.

Reiner shrugged. “He’s on the soccer team. We don’t hang as much, but he’s big friends with- Hey, man!” He was interrupted as the elevator opened revealing three boys you didn’t recognize rushing in to greet Reiner excitedly with claps to the back. You maneuvered around them, as they had crowded around him leaving you in a somewhat uncomfortable position.

You followed them out of the elevator and to what you presumed was Colt’s dorm. You noted it appeared familiar, but in the dim hallway light and the crowd of people pouring in and out it was kind of hard to make out where you had seen it before.

“Oh, sorry.” Reiner finally turned to you. “This is Y/N, by the way.”

“Hey, I’m Gelgar.” The tallest one holding a red solo cup said. “We had Anatomy lecture together.”

“I remember, hi!” You greeted back enthusiastically. “How have you been?”

Gelgar shrugged. “I’ve been doing alright.” It was awkward as Reiner excused you both and ushered you in the door.

“Reiner!” A lanky blonde enveloped him in a hug. “My man!”

Reiner patted his back before pulling away, only to get pulled back into the embrace by the blonde. “Okay, okay.” The blonde was notably tipsy, and when he finally separated from the sloppy embrace he looked at you with droopy eyes.

“This is Colt, the host.” Reiner had to steady Colt who was swaying from side to side.

“Nice to meet you,” Colt slurred. “Hey, you look familiar.”

You couldn’t pinpoint where exactly you had seen him, but not that he mentioned it he did seem familiar. “Yeah, you do too.”

“Aw, shucks. Well, enjoy the part-the party guys!” He shouted. He pointed fingers at you and Reiner before walking away backwards and disappearing into a crowd of people.

“I feel a bit out of place,” You whispered to Reiner. You tugged on your dress, which suddenly felt too tight, too hot, too everything. “I think I may be overdressed.”

Reiner glanced at your dress. “You look good! Trust me, it’ll be fun.”

You bit your lip anxiously. This didn’t seem like a get together, it seemed like a full blown party.

Reiner led you through a pit of people towards the small, already overcrowded kitchen. You overheard someone say how they had moved the couch to Colt’s room to make room for a beer pong table, and you wondered if with a party like this Colt would get in trouble. The music was loud enough for you to feel the bass thumping, and you wondered how no one had filed a complaint yet. Not to mention the space was already pretty small. Then again, it seemed like most of the floor was here. You questioned if it was too late to sneak off to your room and tuck yourself in.

“Here, let me get you a drink.” Reiner whispered in your ear, his hot breath fanning the side of your face and causing you to shiver. You moved to protest, as you still didn’t feel comfortable partaking in drinking with him, but he was heading to the fridge before he could hear you.

You sat on the only unoccupied stool next to a black haired girl and a blonde girl, watching Reiner’s back as he mixed vodka and juice. You winced, as vodka was pretty strong.

“Y/N! Hey! You’re dating Reiner?” The black haired girl suddenly came into your line of vision and you recognized her to be Pieck. You turned, offering her a shy smile.

“Hey, Pieck! Reiner and I aren’t dating.” You had to practically shout to be heard over the noise.

Pieck’s glossy lips formed an “O” shape. “He told us you were his girl.” she nudged you teasingly, but the only thing you felt was dread as your stomach dropped at Reiner claiming you as his girl.

You chuckled nervously, shooting a quick glance at Reiner who was now talking to Bertholdt. “So, is this a normal thing for you guys?”

“What, partying?” Pieck replied. “Nah. For Colt, yes. But ever since he started dorming with Porco he’s had to cut it back a bit, not that anyone’s complaining. Between us it gets kind of tiring after a while.”

You barely registered the rest of her sentence, because you were processing if you had heard what she said correctly. You suddenly felt dizzy, and you thought you might fall off the stool.

“Woah! Easy there.” Pieck grabbed your arm as you swayed. “You tipsy?”

You shook your head. “Sorry- did you say this is Porco’s dorm also?”

Pieck nodded, giving you an odd look. “Yeah, you didn’t know?”

“I-No.” You panted. Suddenly you needed a drink. What the hell were you doing here?

As if on cue, Porco suddenly walked out of the hallway looking disheveled. He wore a button up shirt, similar to the one you had seen on the girl so long ago. His top buttons were undone, and his hair was wildly untamed as if he had been running his hands through it, no signs of gel anywhere. He spotted Pieck and he began walking but then his gaze passed over you and he stopped in his tracks.

“Do you guys still argue?” Pieck whispered, waving at him.

You were frozen in shock. Never had you seen Porco look so… unlike him. And you guessed Porco didn’t know how to react either, because he turned and walked in the opposite direction, back where he had come from.

“Hmm,” Pieck frowned. “He must be in a bad mood.” She swiveled around and you hesitantly did the same, still reeling from having seen Porco. You knew you were technically the one invading his space, as you appeared at his dorm unannounced and with Reiner of all people. In your defense, you had no idea Colt was his room mate. If not, you would have ran as far away from this place as possible.

“Here you go, sorry for the delay.” Reiner was sliding a medium sized drink over to you and the quiet blonde next to Pieck. He handed shots to Pieck and Bertholdt.

“This is Annie, by the way.” Pieck squeezed Annie’s arm. You waved, but Annie simply blinked at you in response, which slightly intimidated you. “She’s not a big conversationalist.” Pieck explained.

You nodded, because frankly you could tell. “Drink up!” Reiner instructed, downing a clear shot. You politely sipped on the drink, the liquid burning your throat. Pieck seemed to have no issue downing hers as well, gasping once she finished. Annie followed your lead, sipping small amounts from her glass.

“Hit me again,” Pieck commanded. Reiner poured straight Tequila into her cup, and you sympathized with the sure hangover Pieck was sure to have tomorrow morning.

“You want a shot, Y/N?” Reiner shouted. The alcohol seemed to be hitting him, as he had a deep blush and his voice began taking a happy lilt.

“I’m good.” You shook your head. “I haven’t finished my drink.”

Reiner frowned. “C’mon, one shot won’t hurt.”

You bit your lip. “Um, I’ll pass.”

Reiner shrugged. “Suit yourself. Round two!” He announced, filling Bertholdt and Pieck’s glasses again.

“That’s round three.” Annie corrected. They ignored her, whooping as they clinked their glasses together. She shared a look with you, then rolled her eyes at their antics.

“Bert!” Marlow appeared, side hugging Bertholdt. “What’s up, dude? Where you been?”

Bertholdt spoke with him, but Marlow’s attention was drawn to you. “Who’s this?”

As if you weren’t right there to answer for yourself. Bertholdt looked confused, glancing from you to Reiner.

“This is Y/N.” Bertholdt introduced you. “We were in a class together.”

“Hi, Y/N.” Malow flirtatiously repeated. “How come I haven’t seen you around?”

You downed the rest of your drink. There was no way you could have this conversation sober. Pieck and Reiner hummed appreciatively once you put the glass down.

“I didn’t know you could chug.” Pieck giggled, way past sober.

You wiped the corner of your mouth with your arm. “It’s not something I usually brag about.”

“Understandable.” Pieck slurred. “Or else people will try- they’ll try to compete with you.” She said between giggles. You figured she was a laughing drunk, who found everything funny.

“You’re pretty.” Marlow suddenly said, pointing. “Do you know that?”

You narrowed your eyes at him. Did he just hit on you? After your obvious rebuff of him? You shared a look with Reiner, expecting him to step in, maybe say, hey, she’s my date- but to your surprise, he shrugged, turning to retrieve another bottle of liquor from the counter.

You were shocked. Had he really just…left?

“Do you know how insufferable you are?” You snapped, suddenly very irritated.

You were pissed at Reiner, at the smell of sweat and liquor in the air, at the humidity that had formed, the too loud music, the stupid boys in your presence, at having accepted Reiner’s invite- at everything. You were overstimulated, and you wanted out. Maybe you had underestimated the effects of downing a glass of vodka and juice that fast, as you began to feel a little lightheaded.

You still had to deal with the consequences of your snark making its usual appearance. You were surprised it hadn’t appeared sooner, as you couldn’t recall a conversation where you didn’t sneak sarcasm in somehow. It was only a matter of time before Reiner met the real you, you told yourself to make yourself feel better. You hated feeling like you had let him down in not being some perky cheerleader type.

In real time, Bertholdt spit his drink out, all over Marlow. Pieck cackled, and Reiner’s eyes widened.

“What the fuck?” Marlow exclaimed, wiping off excess liquor off himself. “What the fuck is your issue?” He snapped at you.

“Watch it.” A deep voice said behind you, startling you. Marlow’s eyes went above your head, and he backed up from the counter a bit.

“Hey, man, she just started being a bitch.” Marlow motioned to you and shook his head, as if you were the issue.

“Hey, not cool!’ Pieck exclaimed.

“Don’t call her that.” The voice behind you said in a dangerously calm voice. Marlow’s eyes widened, and he held his hands up.  You turned to locate your defender, and you nearly fell off the stool again as you realized it was Porco. Marlow seemed to know this too, and he stormed off.

“You okay?” Pieck questioned the smell of the whiskey she had consumed hovering over you.

“Yeah,” You looked up at Porco with his jaw clenched. He met your stare, giving you a long, hard look before he moved from behind your seat to the other side of the counter. You didn’t even have the chance to thank him.

“Thanks, man.” Reiner beat you to it. “Sorry, Y/N. It takes a while for me to process stuff when I’m wasted.” Reiner scratched the back of his neck, somewhat ashamed.

Your scowl deepened. “You haven’t even drank that much.” To your ears, your tone sounded a bit harsh, but that was already twice in a night he let Marlow disrespect you.

Reiner frowned, and from behind him Porco met your eyes again. He raised an eyebrow at you, then turned around to grab a beer.

Ignoring the awkward tension between you two, Pieck and another girl from your chemistry class you vaguely recognize as Carly began lining up shots with a weary Bertholdt. Pieck and Carly squealed with every drink they shot back, and after a few minutes you found yourself bored, as Reiner was too preoccupied conversing with Porco about who knows what. Porco looks almost as bored as you, and you catch him staring at you with his arms crossed. This time, however, he doesn’t look away, maintaining eye contact as he takes a sip of his beer.

“Y/N, join us!” Pieck cries. You spare a glance at Annie, who looks miserable.

“If you do, I will.” Annie says.

A tempting offer, but no. You shake your head no, offering a remorseful smile. You may be miserable as well, but you wouldn’t get wasted around people you barely know. You had thought that you were here to accompany Reiner, but from the looks of it you had only been eye candy.

You got up to tell Reiner you were going to head home. You squeezed past Pieck and Bert, tapping Reiner on the shoulder mid conversation with Porco.

“Yeah?” he turns to you.

“Listen, I think I’m gonna head home.” You point over your shoulder. “Thanks for inviting me-”

“What? You can’t leave!” Reiner protests. Out of the corner of your eye, you make out another girl approaching. You manage to makeout her face, and your stomach drops. It’s that girl, the one who opened the door. And if possible she looks better than she did, with her hair done and fully clothed in a cute dress that makes her body look great.

She’s talking to Porco, whispering something in his ear. He nods stoically, his expression unchanging.

Meanwhile Reiner is blabbering to you about why you should stay and that it hadn’t even been an hour, and how he would leave soon and just wanted to stay a bit longer and some other bullshit. You’re surprised it hasn’t even been an hour when it feels like you’ve been stuck here for years.

Porco catches you staring, and once again he doesn’t break eye contact. You can’t explain why, but he seems mad. Irritated, even. You uncomfortably shift, not used to Porco staring at you so intently. And you thought whenever he would mock you that was him being mean. Now he was just cold. The girl left his side, patting his shoulder and walking off.

Your attention resumed to Reiner as he asked you something.

“Huh?” you blurted.

Reiner sighed, leaning into your ear. “I said, are you sure you don’t want to take a shot? Maybe if you let loose a little…”

Your eye twitched. Let loose? This was his second date idea and he thought you were the reason it wasn’t going so well? You should-

“If she doesn’t want to drink, let her be.” Porco said from his corner.

Both you and Reiner snapped to face him.

“What’s that?” Reiner questioned.

Porco shrugged, leisurely taking a sip of his beer. “I’m just sayin’. If she doesn’t want a shot, don’t give her one.”

You don’t know why, but that enraged you. Who did he think he was? Your guardian? Your savior?

Reiner held his hands up. “I was just offering an option.”

“Yeah, but if she doesn’t-”

You cut Porco off, putting a hand to Reiner’s chest. You faced Porco with a challenging look before speaking. “Actually, I’ll take a shot.”

“You sure?” Reiner asked the back of your head.
You smirked. You noticed a muscle in Porco’s jaw clench as he fixed his steely gaze on you. “Yep.”

Reiner didn’t need to be told twice, pouring you a glass. You didn’t even bother asking what it was, accepting it and downing it in one motion.

“Woah,” Reiner chuckled. “That’s hot.”

You held back a cough. It was straight whiskey, and it was stronger than the vodka. Porco remained neutral, observing the scene unfold. “Another.” You choked out.

Reiner obliged you, and for twenty minutes shot after shot was poured. You lost count around three or was it four? Plus the vodka you had already consumed. You felt yourself swaying slightly, and you wondered if it was obvious how drunk you were.

It was, and painfully obvious. You had just too much to drink that you didn’t care about it yet. You squealed and danced to songs with Pieck and girls you didn’t know, having the time of your life while Reiner was who knows where.

After a while, you stumbled back to the counter, searching for Reiner. Your vision was somewhat blurry, so you took it as a sign that it was time to go home. You searched for your phone in your purse to check the time, but your inebriated state made a simple task that more difficult. You leaned against the counter, taking a few deep breaths before you would walk again.

“Reiner?” You called. He was nowhere to be found.

“Hey, baby.” You felt a large hand make its way to your waist, and you yelped.

“Hands off.” You mumbled, shoving the hand away. Your aim and strength was limited though, as once again the hand found purchase in your waist.

Fuck. Panic began to set in, because either you were too drunk or too anxious to ward off this invasion of privacy.

“Let-let me go.” You attempted to speak with as much conviction as you could muster, but it all sounded like a slurred mess as the boy got in closer, the liquor in his breath making you want to vomit.

You shoved, but he didn’t give. What was he even doing? He was… He was pushing you against the refrigerator, and he was mumbling stuff in your ear…

And then he was being thrown across the floor.

You could barely register what was going on as you lost your balance, tipping sideways.

Steady hands caught you before you hit the ground, and then you heard some loud commotion and you were being flown through a room with polka dots… pretty polka dots.

“”M sleepy.” You mumbled. You dropped your head, and let the exhaustion take over.

Chapter Text

𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗡 𝗖𝗢𝗟𝗧 𝗦𝗔𝗜𝗗 𝗛𝗘 𝗪𝗔𝗦 𝗧𝗛𝗥𝗢𝗪𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗔 𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗬, the last person Porco expected to see there was you. You, in his dorm, casually chatting away with Pieck as if nothing had happened.

“This party’s gonna be wild.” Colt had said. “I’m talking Project X big.”

Porco grunted. “And how are you gonna pull that off? We’re in a dorm.”

Colt scoffed. “Party animals will always find a way, don’t be surprised.”

Porco shrugged. “As long as we don’t get in trouble.”

“Pftt,” Colt waved his hand. “We won’t.”

Cut to present time, and now Porco was hiding in his room, yelling “Occupied!” whenever someone would twist the doorknob and try to enter for reasons that made Porco shiver in disgust. He wasn’t averse to partying, but lately he just hadn’t felt like it. Now the thought of a bunch of frat guys and tipsy girls crawling around his living space didn’t sound too appealing.

He sighed, rapidly clicking through Youtube videos. He couldn’t concentrate on any of them, and he couldn’t even hear them if he tried as the music was pounding throughout the dorm. He briefly worried that at any second an RA would come and shut it down and get them into trouble, but the migraine that was forming in his temple made him think it wouldn’t be the worst thing if it got shut down.

His mind wandered to you for the billionth time this month, and he wondered if you were doing good, or if you were safe. You probably were, because the girl Porco knew last was resilient, strong, and resourceful. You wouldn’t let life get you down.

He always thought about you, even though he knew he shouldn’t. You had pushed him away for the last time, and he wasn’t going to force you to talk to him. Sometimes he wished he could go back in time and spill his guts before Reiner ever came into the picture. He wondered if you would have been with him then. It made his heart ache to think that maybe at one point you had liked him back but he was too blind to see it.

After what felt like the hundredth time someone twisted the door knob, he got up in exasperation and flung the door open. A drunk guy stumbled backwards, apologizing profusely.

“Hey, man, sor-sorry. Bathroom?” He slurred.

Porco rolled his eyes, pointing to the door down the hall. The guy shot him a thumbs up, stumbling down the hall to piss.

Porco sighed, assessing his situation. He could go back to his cave and wallow in self pity, or he could get drunk then go back to his cave and wallow. He chose the previous option, closing his door tightly and praying no one would use his bed as a breeding ground.

He walked down the hall, following the voices carrying through the small dorm to where he hoped the booze was. He heard clinking glasses and the sound of the ping pong table Colt had bought specifically for these parties. Once he exited the hallway, he scanned the scene.

As usual, drunk people were everywhere, yelling, crying, the usual. He spotted Colt in the middle of a beer pong game, yelling excitedly with his cheeks flushed. He would always regret drinking in the morning, but in the act he looked blissful.

He continued surveying the room until his eyes landed on Pieck. Relief washed over him at the sight of a familiar face and he made his way to her, when suddenly his eyes snapped next to her- and there you were.

Almost like the day he first saw you, Porco lost his breath.

You looked stunning in the crappy lighting somehow, your posture somewhat uncomfortable and with your cheeks flushed. Your hair was longer, and the curls were as pretty as the day he noticed them. You wore minimal makeup, enhancing your beauty that Porco had grown to appreciate in your absence. You wore a short dress that hiked up your thighs, something which was not usual for you, and if you were on speaking terms Porco would have poked fun at how you constantly tugged it down to cover your legs. You had some boots that touched your calves and once again Porco was admiring your taste.

Porco was shocked, to say the least. Why were you here? A small glimmer of hope in his heart formed at the possibility that you were here for him.

Then he spotted Reiner, and it all made sense. The fool had brought you here as his date. He turned around without a word to Pieck or you, back to his room. His plans had been spoiled. He had been longing to see you ever since you left him in the hallway, and now that you were in front of him he fled. He began to understand why you did it so much, it was just easier to avoid his issues altogether.

Much to his annoyance, he ran into Marie in the hallway. Marie was nice (when she wasn’t screaming) but she was not the person he wanted to see right now. Colt really liked her, which Porco admired, but sometimes it was kind of hard to get privacy when she was always around. Nevertheless, it wasn’t really her fault- they were just attached at the hip.

“Pock! What’re you doing? Get back there and socialize.”  She turned him around and led him  to the end of the halfway.

“No, thanks.” Porco chuckled, escaping her grip. “I’ve got homework.”

Marie crossed her arms. “Homework? The day before school starts?”

Porco winced. He wasn’t good at lying. “Yes?”

Marie shook her head. “C’mon, you’ve been moping since you got back home. It’s time to move on.”

“Move on from what?” It was true, Porco had gone home to a very anticlimactic break. It was the usual, with his parents gushing over Marcel and scolding Porco for not eating enough because he looked too “skinny.” He still had fun, but most of his life was here, in Trost. Besides, there was someone he couldn’t get off his mind that made it that much harder to enjoy the holidays.

“From whoever broke your heart.” Marie rolled her eyes. “You’re lovesick, Pock. I can tell. C’mon, I got friends to introduce you to.” She looped her arm through his, but Porco dodged her.

“I’m not ‘lovesick’, Marie, thank you very much. I appreciate the concern though.”

Marie tapped her foot impatiently. “How did you get worse at lying?”

Porco sighed in exasperation. “Okay. I’ll go out and socialize, just don’t sick any of you friends on me, alright?”

Marie giggled. “Deal. But I better not see you sneaking off!”

Porco rolled his eyes, turning around. “Or what?’

He walked back to where you and Pieck were seated. He knew it would be awkward, but he also knew Marie would come pester him with her annoying friends if he didn’t interact with someone. And Pieck just happened to be his friend.

Once he approached the table, he managed to catch Marlo’s vulgar words directed at you. Porco felt the blood in his veins boil. You didn’t have to be on speaking terms for him to stop anyone talking to you that way.

“Watch it.” He snarled.

Marlo’s eyes snapped to face Porco’s slightly taller structure. Porco could tell his reaction caused slight fear to Marlo, if the look in his eyes was any indicator. Marlo was notorious for verbally mistreating women, but never having the balls to go off on a man.

“Hey, man, she just started being a bitch.” Marlow motioned to you and shook his head. Porco felt his vision grow red from anger, and he gripped down on your chair to resist jumping over the counter and strangling him.

“Don’t call her that.” He felt his voice drop several octaves. Marlo stormed off and you turned to face him, and Porco saw the shocked expression on your face on realizing it was him defending you.

He resisted the urge to ask you where your knight in shining armor Reiner was as this all went down.

He didn’t say anything when Reiner gave you a pathetic excuse. He didn’t even flinch when you glared at him. He just observed, because that’s what Porco felt your behavior warranted. You looked almost as out of place as he felt, and he was willing to bet that you weren’t enjoying yourself one bit. He was mentally dissecting your every move, even as Reiner rambled about something that could not bore Porco more. He didn’t show any signs of distraction even as you approached Reiner wanting to leave.

“If this is your idea of socializing, I wonder how you act alone.” Marie suddenly came up to him, whispering in his ear. Porco shook his head.

“Not much I can do.”

Marie sighed. “Porco, glaring at people in the corner won’t solve your issue.”

Porco’s eyes unconsciously slid towards you, still in conversation with Reiner. He figured the oaf was too busy convincing you to stay and not kill his buzz to actually take you home.

“Is that her?” Marie questioned. He was surprised at her ability to inconspicuously glance at you without moving an inch.

Porco’s blush gave him away before his words could. He felt the tips of his ear burn red and he looked to the side, nodding slyly.

Marie smirked. “Nice. Don’t psych yourself out, you got this.” She squeezed his shoulder in reassurance and then she was gone.

He managed to catch the last of your conversation with Reiner.

“If she doesn’t want to drink, let her be.” Leave it to Reiner to pressure someone to drink. He had forgotten to mention to you that Reiner loved to party, sometimes not leaving until 3 or 4 in the morning.

Both you and Reiner snapped to face him.

“What’s that?” Reiner questioned him.

Porco shrugged, leisurely taking a sip of his beer. “I’m just sayin’. If she doesn’t want a shot, don’t give her one.”

Reiner held his hands up. “I was just offering an option.” Of course he was.

“Yeah, but if she doesn’t-” Porco started, once again unable to deter his need to come to your rescue when you cut Porco off, putting a hand to Reiner’s chest. You faced Porco with a challenging look before speaking.

“Actually, I’ll take a shot.” You said smugly. Porco felt a muscle in his neck twitch. Why did you have to make things so difficult?

“You sure?” Reiner asked the back of your head. You smirked. “Yep.”

Reiner didn’t need to be told twice, pouring you a glass. You didn’t even bother asking what it was, accepting it and downing it in one motion.

“Woah,” Reiner chuckled. “That’s hot.” Porco cringed.

“Another.” You choked out.

Porco sighed, taking a swig of his beer. This was sure to be eventful. You didn’t strike Porco as the type to handle heavy liquor.

He was right, because for twenty minutes you continued your boisterous behavior, and Porco pretended to not notice how after every action you did you glanced at him to see if he was noticing. He would pretend he wasn’t, either in conversation with Bertholdt or some girl he couldn’t remember the name of, but he was always watching you from the corner of his eye.

You danced and danced, albeit not too well (mostly just stumbling from side to side while an equally drunk Pieck egged you on screeching) and Porco grew anxious. You were not only making a fool of yourself, but now Porco was worried you had consumed too much. To make it worse, Reiner had disappeared, presumably to snort a line with some rowdy frat guy. Porco decided he would go find him and direct him to take you home.

While he diverted his attention for a second to formally excuse himself from the conversation with a classmate, he managed to lose sight of you. He frantically searched for you in the crowd, unable to locate where you had just been a few seconds prior.

It was then that he spotted you in the kitchen, your head down and a guy who was not Reiner leaning over you, his hands on your waist.

“Can you hold this?” He asked Annie, who had been leaning in a corner.

Annie shrugged, accepting the beer in his hand.

He began walking towards you, his intention to make sure you were okay. When he got closer he saw the intruder was Marlo, and you were rebuffing his advances. Porco sped up just as Marlo slammed you into the fridge, earning a cry from you.

One thing Porco was proud of was his strength. He enjoyed deadlifting and occasionally boxing so he knew he was capable. He figured this moment was when all those activities paid off as he was able to grab Marlo and toss him across the living room floor with more ease than he thought.

Marlo’s nose collided with the floor, and he let out a scream of pain. The people dancing abruptly came to a stop, scattering away as the scene unraveled.

“You fucking creep! What were you trying to do, huh?” Porco’s glare was murderous as he turned to continue knocking some sense into him, when you whimpered and wobbled to the side. Porco caught you before you hit the ground, steadying you.

“Woah, you okay?” He pushed the hair out of your face to inspect you properly. He felt a chill run up his spine as he wondered what would have happened if he had been too late.

You mumbled something incoherently. Porco groaned, realizing you were too drunk to stand, much less defend yourself. He grabbed your arm, placing it around his neck as he steadied you with his other hand around your waist. He hoped you wouldn’t think he was also trying to grope you with his hand placement.

“Man, what the fuck!” The chaos around him was still going, as the music cut off and people were scrambling to help Marlo.

“Don’t fucking help him! He’s a fucking perv! He was trying to take advantage of her!” Porco yelled. He motioned to you, with your head drooped. The two people who were trying to bring Marlo to his feet dropped him, shaking their head in alarm as they back stepped.

“Dude, dude what’s wrong?” Colt ran through the crowd, sidestepping a groaning Marlo who was clutching his bleeding nose in agony.

“He just fucking tried to throw himself on her, man.” Porco explained. “Fucking pervert. Yeah, and you’re lucky I’m holding her!” He called to Marlo.

“My nose,” Marlo groaned. “I’m gonna kill you, Galliard.”

“Fucking try.” Porco snarled as Colt spread his arms to detain Porco from charging.

“Hey, hey, relax, relax. We’ll get him out of here, just take care of her.” Colt turned back to face the crowd. “Party’s over, and I’m pretty sure someone’s gonna call the TA or the cops.” He announced.

People began leaving, discarding their trash on the floor.

“Galliard!” Reiner’s voice boomed as he ran up to them.

“Where the fuck have you been?” Porco snapped. He defensively blocked you with his body. You were becoming heavier, and Porco figured you were seconds away from passing out.

Reiner didn’t respond, but he didn’t need to as Porco had a feeling he knew where he was from the way his eyes were red and the way he wiped at his nose.

“Really, man? What the fuck? You left her unsupervised, black out drunk so you could go snort a line?” He scoffed. “You’re a fucking idiot.”

Reiner scowled. “You’re not even her fucking guardian, Galliard. Lay off.” He waved his hand at him over his shoulder before heading to Marlo. “What happened to him?”

Porco was fuming. “You’re not even going to fucking ask if she’s okay? I’m not her fucking guardian but you’re not doing a good job at taking care of her-”

“Just shut it.” Reiner snapped. “Now I have to clean up the mess you made, so be grateful.”

That was the tipping point for him. He exploded, bursting into angry shouts at Reiner. “The mess I created defending her! Are you fucking stupid? You don’t even give a fuck?”

“I have to take him to the ER.” Reiner brushed him off, picking Marlo up to his feet. “Can you watch her?”

Pieck and Marie were nowhere to be found, and Carly was long gone, leaving with all the other people. There was no one Porco could trust to leave you with. “You’re so fucking lucky it’s me and not someone like him.” He nodded to Marlo.

Reiner let out an exasperated breath, like he thought Porco was being dramatic. “Alright, let’s go.” He hauled a half conscious Marlo to his feet, guiding him to the door.

“Hey, I’m sorry, man. He’s a fuckin’ creep. I’ll clean up here, you go find a way to get her home.” Colt scratched his temple. “I can’t believe that happened.”

Porco grunted in response. He was far too pissed and concerned to stay around and discuss the logistics of it. He hoped for Marlo’s sake that he never saw him again.

He guided you to the hallway, unsure of what to do. But your knees were bending, and for some reason you kept giggling as if you found everything funny. The strobe lights washed over your face and you pointed, mumbling “Ooh, pretty dots.” In a high pitched voice.

Porco stopped trying to guide you as you were stumbling over your feet and his own, and you were more unconscious than awake. Sighing, he let you lay on the ground before bending over and picking you up bridal style. You didn’t even question it, and wrapped your arms around his neck.

“‘M sleepy.” You mumbled in his ear. Porco felt his own knees grow wobbly, not because of your weight but because of the tone of your voice, and how it rang in his ears.

“‘S okay, we’re almost there.” He whispered back. The scent of your shampoo filled his nostrils as he inhaled.

You murmured, pressing yourself closer to him. Your feet dangled in the air, knocking against Porco’s side as he led you into his room, which was thankfully empty.

He set you down on his small twin bed delicately, but your unconscious state caused you to flop backwards unceremoniously. Porco sighed, adjusting your arms so that they were no longer clutching his shirt and instead at your sides. He stared at you to see if you were at least semi awake, but you were out cold. You looked funny asleep, with your mouth partially open and small snores escaping you every few seconds. He found it adorable, and if it were under different circumstances he would’ve snapped a bunch of pictures to cherish how endearing you looked asleep. Not exactly peaceful, but more… relaxed. Your hair was also a mess, just another aspect that he found charming.

You flopped on your side, alarming Porco as your dress hiked up your thighs more. He went to his closet, locating an old blanket he had been gifted during Secret Santa a year ago. He spread it over you, covering your sleeping figure. He accidentally covered your face, so he lowered it to allow you air. In the process he ruffled your hair more, so he smoothed it over with his palms in a way he had seen you do a few times.

He sat on his desk chair, uncertain of what to do next. You were passed out drunk on his bed. He didn’t want you to think he took advantage of you. He wasn’t even sure if you could make it back to your dorm. Seeing no other choice, he picked up his phone and dialed Mikasa.

“Hello?” She picked up on the second ring. “What’s wrong? Why are you calling me?” Intuitive as ever.

“Hey, uh, it’s me.” Porco facepalmed. She knew that, dumbass.

“I know?” Mikasa had to shout over the noise of the club. She had gone clubbing with Sasha, Historia, Connie and Eren in Stohess to celebrate her internship, a fact which she had relayed to you that she would most likely not be back before morning. “What’s wrong?”

Porco sighed. “Y/N is in my dorm, black out drunk.”

“What?” Mikasa’s alarmed voice came back. “What did you do to her? I’ll-”

“Okay, calm down, I worded that wrong.” Porco didn’t want to raise his voice as you were stirring in your sleep and he didn’t want to wake you. “She got drunk, that didn’t have anything to do with me, but Reiner ditched her, so now she’s in my room, safe.” He paused because he heard Mikasa inhale sharply, presumably ready to curse him out. “Safe, but very much asleep. Where are you? I can bring her to you.” He heard shuffling on the other line, and heavy bass thumping.

“I’m-” Static. “I’m in Stohess, I barely have signal.”

“Shit,” Porco cursed. “Well, are you going to be back? I’ll stay up.”

“I don’t think so.” Mikasa replied. “We were going to spend the night somewhere. The earliest I can be back is 3 am, tops.”

Porco bit his lip, glancing at your rising and falling chest. He didn’t know what to do. You would be upset if you woke up in his room, and you would also be sad if you interrupted Mikasa’s night. It was frankly irresponsible for you to act this way, but Porco felt he was to blame for pushing you to that point.

“I don’t know, what do you think I should do?”

Mikasa clicked her tongue. “I trust you to not do anything to her, Porco. I think she does, too. But if you don’t feel comfortable either I can start driving ASAP.”

You let out a loud moan, startling Porco.

“Hold on, I think she woke up.” Porco held a hand over his phone. “L/N?”

“Don’t call me that.” You groaned, throwing an arm over your forehead.

“Yep, she’s up.” He sighed. “I’ll call you back.”

“Yeah, just- And if she has a key- Let me know, Porco!” The call dropped, presumably due to the bad signal.

Porco put his phone down. He crossed his arms, leaning back in his chair. “You’re awake.”

“No.” You giggled, proving his point. “Who were you calling?” You hiccuped. “Your girlfriend?”

Porco narrowed his eyes. “No, yours actually. You’re drunk. Do you have a house key? I’ll take you home right now.”

You giggled in response. “Who wants to know?” You hiccuped again.

Porco was growing impatient, his frown deepening. “Me.”

“Hi, me. I’m Porco.”

“No, I’m Porco.”

“No, you’re me.” You laughed, burying your face in the covers. Your drunken laugh was a mix of a hiccup and a dry heave, a fact which Porco would have found hilarious if he wasn’t concerned.

“Alright, where’s your purse?” He got up, searching the room.

“Hmm, no.” You rubbed your eyes, smearing your makeup. “No, I’ll stay here.”

“Y/N.” he pleaded. “C’mon.”

“Fine.” You grumbled. “It’s in the kitchen.”

“Stay here.” Porco said firmly, heading to the kitchen to locate the purse. He found it in your seat, a pink shoulder bag. He examined the mess that was left behind, shaking his head at the amount of effort that would require to clean it all. He texted Mikasa that you were conscious and that he was taking you to your dorm, to which she responded with a thank you. He picked the purse up, heading to the room.

“Okay, here.” He handed it to you. You squinted at him, and he rolled his eyes, placing it by your feet.

“You’re kicking me out?” You pouted.

“You’re drunk. I’m taking you home.”

“Noo,” You whined. “I don’t wanna go home. It’s lonely there.”

He sighed, sitting on the edge of the small bed. Sometimes he wasn’t even sure how he fit in it. He flicked your boots absentmindedly. “You have Goose. And Mikasa will be there by the time you wake up.”

“But I want you to be there.” You said in a small voice.

Porco froze, his hand still on your boots. Why would you want you there? You didn’t like him, as you had made it so clear.

“You’re just drunk, you’re not thinking straight.” He whispered. “C’mon, let’s get you home.”

“No,” You shot up, suddenly angry. “I’m not not thinking straight.” You shoved his arm lightly, as you were inebriated and didn’t have much strength. “You’re drunk.”

“You want Reiner, Y/N.” He scoffed. “And I haven’t even drank that much-”

“No.” You insisted. “You didn’t want me. You wanted her, and you never told me you liked me.”
“What are you talking about Y/N?”

“And you kissed me and you just had the nerve to waltz around like I don’t mean anything-”

“Of course you mean something to me.”

“No,” You huffed, frustrated. “You didn’t want me, and you’re so- you’re so-” You hiccuped. “You’re so irritating. With your stupid hair and your dumb walk and your ugly handwirting-”

“My handwriting?”

“I dislike you so much I can’t help but like you.” You cried. It was then Porco realized you were crying real tears, and it scared him. You covered your face in your hands, silently crying. “I don’t know why I fucking like you! You’re a mediocre soccer player, you’re- you’re so weird. You use too much gel. You’re rude to me. And you’re only five eight! But I like you!” You wailed.

After he got over his initial shock, Porco rubbed your back with his hand. You sighed, removing your hands from your face and laying your head on his shoulder. “You’re the worst.” You sniffled.

“Yeah, I know.” He chuckled. “You’re no saint, either.”

You grunted, crossing your arms.

You sat there for a second, letting your confession linger for a second.

“And no, I’m not just drunk. Well, I am, but not to where I won’t remember this tomorrow. I don’t think I’ll ever forget, unfortunately.” You sighed. You were too ashamed to look up to Porco’s gaze.

Porco took a breath before he spoke. “Well, at least I actually know why I like you.”

“Huh?” You gasped, incredulous.

“Don’t be so surprised.” He chuckled. His voice was softer now, a bit raspier as he was tired. “You’re not exactly hard to fall for.”

“But you hate me.” You retorted, confused.

Porco rolled his eyes. “I think I’ve proven multiple times that I don’t hate you.”

“You haven’t exactly disproved it.” You grumbled.

“Uh, yes, I have, you’re just too blind to see it.” He scoffed, causing you to glare at him.

“I’m not blind.” You mumbled.

“You are.” Porco smirked. “So blind.”

“Fuck you.” You huffed, returning your head to his shoulder with crossed arms. “So what now?”
Porco sighed. “You’re hard to hate. I like you, L/N.”

“Not enough to not call me that?” You whispered.

Porco laughed, throwing his head back. You formed a small smile against your will, but Porco couldn’t see it.

“You really don’t like it, huh?” He questioned with a smile, his eyes twinkling mischievously in the dark light of the room.

“No.” You snapped. After a second, you sighed. “Well, I don’t hate it as much when you say it.” You admitted begrudgingly.

Porco smirked triumphantly. “You sayin’ I’m special?”

“Never.”

Porco rolled his eyes at your bluff. “So you’re going to ignore me saying I like you? I’ve never done that before, you know.”

You scoffed. “I’m still processing. I just find it hard to believe you say you like me when there was a half naked girl in your dorm.”

“What?” Now Porco was confused. He separated from you, gazing into your eyes with genuine confusion. “What are you talking about?”

You met his inquisitive gaze, your lower lip suddenly trembling. “How do you not know? You- she was here, and you told her to tell me you weren’t home.”

Porco’s expression was pure confusion. “Y/N, I haven’t had anyone in my dorm since I moved here. I-you must have gone to the wrong dorm.”

“No,” you insisted. “It was your dorm, Porco, 850. I wouldn’t make it up. Why do you think I ignored you for so long? I was coming up here to tell you to date me, and she answered the door- I thought you weren’t interested.”

“Y/N, what-” Porco shook his head, running a hand through his messy hair. “I genuinely don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Don’t try to gaslight me.” You were in disbelief. Why couldn’t he just admit it? You were so infatuated with him you would be willing to let it go, but he just had to be honest first.

“Y/N, I only like you, and I’ve only ever liked you. I didn’t have anyone in my dorm, and I wouldn’t do that? That’s just..” Suddenly a light bulb in Porco’s brain lit up. “Wait a minute. You’re- you were the surveyor!”

“Huh?” Your brow furrowed.

“About a month ago, Colt told me someone came looking for me to do surveys. That was you, wasn’t it?”

You blushed. You had forgotten about your stupid lie to save face that day. “How did you know?”
“It was! Oh, God, Y/N.” He groaned, facepalming. “Marie answered the door-”

“Oh, so her name is Marie?” You snapped.

Porco was exasperated. He clutched your hands desperately, looking you dead in the eyes. “Y/N, get this into your thick skull, please. Marie is Colt’s girlfriend, and she answered the door. I wasn’t home. I got back and Colt told me someone came looking for me.”

You gaped. “What?”

“Yes, Y/N. Was she tall with long, reddish hair?”

“She was blonde.” You huffed.

“Yeah, she just dyed it a few weeks ago.” He shot back. “See? I’m not lying.”

You contemplated this for a second. “She was at the party, right?”

Porco nodded. “Yes, because she’s Colt’s girlfriend.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah, oh.” He clutched your hand tighter. “So you ignored me for no reason.” He wore a sad smile when he said it, and you can sense the hurt in his sentence.

“It wasn’t- I really thought you didn’t want me.” You could feel tears welling up in your eyes again, and you weren’t sure if it was due to the alcohol still in your system or the genuine emotion you felt at having believed something false for so long. “I just thought you hated me.”

“I didn’t hate you, Y/N. Yeah, we would mess with each other but it was never out of hatred. I couldn’t hate you if I tried. I guess it’s my fault for being an idiot with my words, too. The thought of you with Reiner, it just.” He sighed. “It made me so mad.”

“Where is he anyway?” You suddenly remembered your date, who was long gone.

“He dipped.” Porco scoffed. “He took Marlo to the ER.”

“The ER?” You repeated, incredulous. “Why?”

Porco blushed. That was an awkward subject he hoped to breach later, when you were completely sober. “Um, I hurt him.”

“Why?” You gasped. God, you were always so nosy.

“Because.” He said shortly. “He was trying to grope you.”

“That was him?” You were in disbelief. “So you saved me?”

Porco shrugged, averting his gaze. “I guess.” He mumbled.

“You guess?” You smirked, nudging him. Truthfully your heart swelled at the thought of Porco coming to your rescue, as he had so many times before.

“Yeah,” Porco grumbled. “Now don’t get all sappy about it.”

You laughed. While he was somewhat softer tonight, he was still Porco, so that meant he avoided any emotional discussion like the plague.

“So what now?” You whispered. Your foreheads were pressed together, and Porco’s hand caressed your own as he thought.

“Now I’ll take you home.”

“Alright.” You giggled. You still felt lightheaded, as if you were floating through this entire exchange. “You wanna carry me again?”

“Hell no.” He muttered. “Your legs don’t work?”

You giggled, waving them in the air. “No, sir.”

-

After navigating the dark halls to your dorm, Porco set you down when you located it. You stumbled slightly, apparently still tipsy.

“You look cute with my purse.” You giggled, pointing at your shoulder bag which was currently hiked up his muscled shoulder. He had shouldered it mindlessly when he picked you up bridal style once again, except this time you were fully conscious to witness it.

“Fuck, I-I can’t find my keys.” You whispered, searching for them in your purse.

“Did you drop them?” Porco peered into your open bag.

You sighed. “That’s the third pair I’ve lost.”

Porco let out a low whistle. “You need a keychain. Like this one.” He pulled out his own, the one you had given him.

“You kept it?” You asked, astonished at the sight of the keychain you had thrown at him so long ago. You ran your fingers over it in shock.

Porco nodded smugly. “Yep.”

You remembered the spare key that you had hidden under the doormat. You picked it up, grinning and dangling it triumphantly in Porco’s face before unlocking the door.

You stepped inside, the sound of your heeled boots ringing out in the empty dorm. You began walking, but turned once you realized Porco wasn’t following you.

“You’re not coming in?” You whispered. For some reason the dark lighting and emptiness of the dorm made you want to lower your voice.

Porco scratched the back of his neck. “You want me to?”

You bit your lip. “I just thought we’d talk some more…” Your voice sounded embarrassingly desperate in your ears.

“That’s fine.” Porco nodded, stepping over the threshold.

“Are you like a vampire that needs to be invited in?” You teased, leading him to your room.

Porco scoffed. “If anything you’re the vampire, sucking the life out of everyone.”

You shot him a glare. “Are you trying to get kicked out?”

Porco chuckled, entering your room. He surveyed your layout, the same standard twin bed pushed into the left corner, a small desk and your closet open with minimal clothes and shoes. He scanned your decorations, posters of musicians and movies you liked scattered here and there. Your bed was neatly made, unlike his, and you had some plushies on the bed. It looked like your personality came to life, a fact which he found endearing. He really had come to like all aspects of your personality- you could ignite him like nobody else could, but only you could bring out another side of him he didn’t know he had. Which wasn’t necessarily a bad thing.

You sat on the edge of your bed, sighing. Goose meowed at you, startling Porco. He had assumed he was a part of the plushie collection on your bed, but he was wrong as the heavy cat head bumped you in greeting.

“Goose.” You giggled. “You scared Porco.”

Porco petted the orange feline’s head. “He’s as huge as ever.”

You rolled your eyes. “He’s happy and healthy.”

Porco snorted. He figured the cat was happy by the way it purred loudly and mewled as you petted a spot it liked.

“Sit with me.” you whispered almost shyly, patting the spot next to you. He raised an eyebrow at you before sitting down gingerly, trying to keep some distance between his knees and yours. Goose retreated to the corner of the bed, curling into a ball and purring contently.

“So…” You began.

“So…” Porco repeated. “How was your break?”

“It was good,” You nodded. “Although I thought about you the whole time.”

Porco chuckled. “Is that so?”

You nodded. You then inched closer, making Porco’s palms sweaty at the nervousness of having you so close. His heartbeat increased and he felt slightly dizzy. He had never felt this way about someone before.

“I’m not going to lie,” You whispered. “I missed you.”

“I missed you, too, believe it or not.” Porco let out a breathy laugh. “Your annoying ass.”

“You sure it wasn’t just my ass?” You quipped, making Porco blush profusely. He was thankful for the dark as you would have surely called him out on it if you could see.

“No.” He grumbled. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“I think you like me.” Your tone was definitely teasing now, and Porco figured he should have known as you couldn’t resist poking fun at him even in serious moments.

“Hmm, nope.” Porco shook his head. “Wrong.”

Your laugh sent butterflies flying through his stomach. Even though he had just sent someone to the hospital, he felt at peace with you like nothing bad had ever happened between you two.

You leaned back, falling back into your pile of plushies. “I’m sleepy.” You yawned.

“I’ll go, then.” Porco stood.

“No!” You cried.

Porco’s eyes widened. “You want me to stay?”

You hid your face in a plushie, not quite wanting to face him. “Not really.”

Porco blinked. “But I have to go clean up.”
“You’re such a dork.” You grumbled.

Porco bit his lip. “I mean, I wouldn’t mind… But are you sure you feel comfortable with that?”

You lifted your head from the plushies, nodding vigorously. “Please, stay.”

Porco mulled it over. Would it be the worst thing to skip cleaning duty? He hadn’t even been the one who threw the party, anyways.

“Alright.” He sat back down, until you tugged on his sleeve, urging him to lean back as well. He slowly adjusted so he leaned back, moving your plushies from beneath him.

“Shit.” He cursed when his elbow hit your headboard. “Small ass bed.”

You giggled. “Do you like my plushies?”

He could tell you were still feeling the effects on the alcohol because you found everything funny, and you wore a ditzy smile. “It’s like you have a toy store in here.” He grabbed a Kuromi plush, inspecting it.

You snatched Kuromi out of his hands. “Don’t manhandle Kuromi.”

“They have names?”

“Of course they do. They’re valuable.”

“What’s this one’s name?” He picked up a Pompompurin plush. “Banana?”

You gasped. “That’s Pompompurin.”

“Long ass name.” He huffed, placing the plush on your nightstand.

“You’re squishing them!” You screeched.

“Aren’t they meant to be squished?”
Porco’s complaint was cut short when you slammed a pillow on his head.

“Oh, my God?” Porco flung the pillow across the room, where it hit your closet with a loud thud. “You want to kill me?”

You were near tears, pressed against the wall of your room with a hand over your mouth to stifle your laughter. Tears threatened to spill over your cheeks from how physically hard you were laughing at Porco. Perhaps it wasn’t that funny, but you were enjoying yourself.

“No, no, c’mere.” Porco clutched your ankle, dragging you closer to him and causing you to squeal in protest. His hands began their attack on you, tickling your side and all over your legs as you kicked and yelled at Porco to quit before you pissed yourself.

“Alright, alright,” Porco laughed, releasing his evil grip on you. “See? Don’t mess with me.”

“Please.” You rolled your eyes. You both lay next to each other in comfortable silence, chests moving up and down as you both regained your breath.

“Porco?” You said suddenly. He turned to face you.

“Yeah?”

“Why do you like me?”

Porco murmured in thought. “Hmm. Well, for one, you’re kind. You’re pretty, too, but that’s just a bonus. I’ve noticed you care about people deeply. You’re intelligent, and you’re strong. You’re also honest- a little too honest. You’re always calling me out on my shit, even when I’m not ready to hear it.”

You hummed in agreement. “Continue.”

Porco snickered before continuing. He traced the outline of your face with his finger delicately. “Of course you have a God complex. Well, you’re also funny, sometimes. Don’t let that inflate your head anymore, though. And you’re just so,” He exhaled. “You’re interesting. I don’t think I’m ever bored when I speak to you. You’re charismatic. You’re just a beautiful person to know. I wish I had seen it earlier.”

“Yeah? Before or after Reiner got to me?”

Porco groaned. “Don’t mention that idiot right now.”

You chuckled. “So you really like me?”

“Yes.” Porco sighed. “And I have a feeling I’m gonna have to repeat it to you every day.”

“That’s right.” You booped his nose. “As long as you like me.”

“Always.” He kissed your forehead. “No doubt.”
You stared at each other for a while, losing track of time. The moonlight beaming in between the curtains illuminated your faces, and you admired the beauty of Porco you had grown to love. You noticed the light sprinkling of freckles on his button nose, his pretty eyelashes, and how when he was deep in thought his eyebrows slightly furrowed. You pressed a kiss to his cheek, and he blushed under your touch.

“Can I hold you?” He whispered. You nodded, and he lay a hand over your waist pulling you as much closer as he could in the small bed.

“I wanna kiss you.” You whispered.

Porco frowned. “I want you to remember it, though.”

You raised an eyebrow. Porco Galliard a romantic? Who would have thought?

“I will.” You insisted. “I’ll remember everything.”

“I can still smell the vodka on your breath.” He countered.

You groaned. “I’m not that drunk.”

“Trust me.” He squeezed your waist once. “It’ll be better if we wait.”

“Fine.” You relented. Maybe he was right. It would be kind of odd to kiss him like this. You had already kissed once, but in daylight, and sober. The memory caused you to bury your face in his chest, to which he gripped you tighter. His hand traveled up to your hair, caressing it slowly.

“Thank you.” You mumbled. “You’re warm.”

His laugh rumbled against his chest, and you felt the vibration of it.

“You don’t want to change?” Porco questioned, as he could tell you were dozing off.

“Mm, later,” You yawned. “You smell good.”

You didn’t even feel when you fell asleep, with his arms around you and you clutching Porco’s shirt. It was a peaceful sleep, and you cherished the feeling of finally knowing Porco was here.

-

You awoke with the smell of eggs infiltrating your nostrils. You peeled your eyes open, but found a yellow tint covering your line of vision. Knitting your brows together, you snatched what you recognized to be a Post-it off your forehead. You flipped it over, and in your dazed state you managed to recognize the handwriting.

Advil on the table.

P.s. you look funny when you’re asleep

You sat forward abruptly, eyes frantically darting back and forth from your side to the nightstand, where sure enough there was a cup of water and an Advil perched on a napkin beside it.

Everything came rushing back to you. Reiner, the party, Marlo’s meaty hands on your waist, Porco… falling asleep in his embrace. You wondered where he was now, as he was not next to you where you had left him when you dozed off.

But the smell of burning food filled your nostrils again, and you hoped for your sake it was Mikasa. You were sure you looked extremely unflattering, with your hair a rat’s nest and your makeup sure to be smudged. Worse, you were insecure you had drooled on him, or kicked him in your sleep.

You glanced down again at the familiar sticky note in your hand, now somewhat crumpled as your fist had closed around it. You inspected it closer, and you recognized the handwriting from the Midol box so long ago. The messy writing confirmed your suspicions that it was in fact Porco’s doing.

You swung your feet over the small bed, stifling a yawn. As if on cue, your head pounded, a reminder of the destructive coping mechanism you had partaken in. You downed the Advil, hoping it would decrease the pain to a dull thud.

After making yourself somewhat presentable in your mirror by wiping at the sleep in your eyes and patting your hair down. You changed out of your dress, which had grossly stuck to your body with sweat. You noticed your boots were laid neatly on the corner of the bed, so you assumed Porco had taken them off for you. You changed into loose pajama pants and a big shirt, hoping to hop into the shower after… well, after you completed whatever awaited you in the kitchen.

You padded into the kitchen softly, and once you spotted Porco your heart simultaneously dropped in relief and anxiety. You couldn’t recall every exact detail of what exactly your drunken mouth had uttered yesterday, but you knew it was a somewhat more vulnerable and affectionate conversation than you and Porco were used to. You were chronically averse to anything even somewhat confrontational, including emotional talks, as you were sure it was obvious by now. In a fight-or-flight situation, you usually chose flight.

Porco was just turning the stove off, having burnt his portion of the scrambled eggs he had made. He looked freshly washed, which to you felt unfair, and his hair was uncharacteristically ungelled. He wore a sweatshirt and some black cargos, and you noted this was the first time you had ever seen him so casual. You tried to push the attraction you felt to seeing him so domestic down, as you needed a clear head for the talk that was sure to ensue. You fucking hated facing the aftermath of your brash decisions.

He turned to you once he felt your stare boring into him, waving the spatula as if he had seen you there the whole time. Maybe he had, as you weren’t being as quiet as you had thought.

“Hey,” He breathed. “I made eggs.”

You crossed your arms, looking like a deer in headlights. You averted your gaze to the floor, a blush on your cheeks. “I can tell.” You mumbled.

Porco scratched the back of his neck awkwardly. “I, uh- I don’t know where your forks are.”

Suddenly, the smoke alarm went off, and Porco cursed, using a dishrag to blow the smoke away from the beeping machine.

You rushed over, using your arms to try and redirect the smoke out the window you had opened. After a few minutes, the alarm shut off.

Porco panted, his hands on his hips. He stared at you with wide eyes, his face violently red in embarrassment.

“At least we know it works.” You giggled.

He chuckled nervously, happy you weren’t too upset about it. He figured if Mikasa was here she’d have cursed him out. “Thank God Mikasa’s not here.”

“She’s not?” You turned to peek into her room, which was closed.

Porco shook his head. “She went to Eren’s to check up on him. Apparently he got wasted.”

“That makes two of us.” You groaned, pressing a hand to your head. “Can you turn the light off? It’s so bright.”

Porco’s expression made you question your request. “What?” You borderline snapped. You felt the familiar sensation of hunger gnawing at your stomach, and the smell of the food Porco had burnt cooked wasn’t helping.

“That’s the sun. It’s one in the afternoon.” Porco wore a smug expression that made you consider tossing him out the window.

Instead you were incredulous. “One? Already?”

Porco nodded. “You sleep like a log.”

You cringed. You thought it was at most nine. You couldn’t believe you had blacked out so long. “Is that why you ditched me?”

Porco scoffed. He had located your utensils and plates and was placing a heaping serving of eggs onto a plate. He slid it over to you, gesturing for you to sit at the counter. “I didn’t ditch you. I woke up at ten, waited for you to wake up and nothing. Then I went to my dorm to change and shower. I came back, you were still asleep. Now I’m making breakfast.”

You winced. “Did I kick you in my sleep?”

Porco cackled. “Yeah, with those big ass boots. I had to zip them off of you thirty minutes after you dozed off. My shin is still bruised.”

You sighed. “I really don’t know what happened to me last night. I don’t even know who I was then.”

Porco wore a pensive expression you could only interpret as grim.

“What?”  You prodded.

“So… does that mean you regret it?”

You frowned. “What part?”

He bit his lip anxiously. Porco had never confessed his feelings to anyone, much less someone he couldn’t stand a year ago. He was starting to remember why. It was excruciating, this game of Will she or will she not? He wasn’t used to feeling this desperate for validation, or like he needed to be reassured you in fact liked him after all. He couldn’t believe he had come to this point. In a way, it scared him, but the thought of being with you exhilarated him.

“That you liked me.”

Your expression softened. “Oh…No, I meant that.” You let out a small laugh anxiously. Your palms were sweaty and your knees felt wobbly. You couldn’t remember a time where you felt this infatuated with someone. Another part of you also couldn’t believe it was with Porco of all people.

“You did?” Porco repeated incredulously.

You nodded slowly. “I wasn’t that drunk. I meant what I said, Porco. I’ve meant it for weeks now.”

Porco was in shock. Here was you- a smart, pretty, caring person he had grown to love saying you wanted him, too? It felt like a dream. Like it was too good to be true.

“Are you alive?” You waved your hand in front of him. In response he dropped the spatula on his plate, sending eggs flying off his plate and on the counter. You both stared at the mess before you giggled.

“Butterfingers.” You teased.

Porco shook his head, picking the eggs up with a napkin and discarded them. You noted how he had given himself the burnt portions, saving the fluffy, unburnt (and edible) ones for you.

“I’m gonna brush my teeth.” You pointed to the bathroom. “Can I trust you to not set the dorm on fire?”

Porco glared at you. “I was your bodyguard all night, so yeah, I think you can.”

“If you say so, Chef Galliard Ramsey.” You took off running to the bathroom before the dishrag he threw at you could impact you.

Once you returned, you plopped yourself down in the seat next to Porco.

He raised an eyebrow at you as you sat.

“All brushed?”

You nodded. An awkward silence descended on you as Porco munched on his eggs and you quietly contemplated how to proceed with the revelations of last night.

“Do you eat your food by staring?” Porco pointed his fork at your untouched plate. “If so, teach me how.”

You scowled. “I’m thinking.”

“About?”

You took a breath before responding. Now was the time to just lay it on the table. You were frankly sick of tiptoeing around the subject. Besides, you’d like to believe it wasn’t just the liquid courage you had gained yesterday that enabled you to finally confess to him. “So we both like each other, yeah? What now?”

Porco nearly choked on his food. You patted his back as he coughed, downing some water.

After he recovered, he cleared his throat. “Well…” his voice came out raspier than usual, a trait that made your knees wobble. You were grateful you were sitting. He set his fork down before recovering. “If you’d let me… I want to date you. Officially. And before you hesitate, just know that I can treat you so right.” He ran a hand through his hair. “I know it probably doesn’t seem like it. But I know I can. I wouldn’t abandon you like Reiner. I would take care of you. And I think we can be happy.”

The smile that was forming on your face was almost juvenile. You felt your chest tighten, and you were sure you would either release a sob of relief or an exhilarated scream.

“Can I hug you?” You choked out.

Porco’s eyes widened. “Um, sure.” He breathed.

You flung your arms around his neck, and Porco leaned into your embrace. After a second, his arms circled your waist lightly.

“Is that a yes?” Porco chuckled.

You nodded, pulling back. “I think if you told me a year ago I’d be going on a date with you willingly, I would have cried from laughing so hard.”

Porco smirked. “What about the you from now?’

You shook your head. “Just wondering what took you so long.”

Porco rolled his eyes, his pinky enveloping yours. “I guess it all worked out in the end.”

“Don’t get too ahead of yourself. You still have to take me out.” You teased.

“The weirdest thing just happened to me- I’m actually looking forward to it.”

You laughed. You finished your breakfast in ease, steady conversation between you both. Strangely, it was as if you had never been apart. You relished in the feeling of peace being with Porco now brought you. Sure, he had his moments. He was his usual brash self when you first met. But you could see how he had gone through his own transformation himself. Gone was the arrogant, rude boy you had been bickering with long ago. In his place was a person who had grown to become someone you could trust, who looked out for you, who was intuitive. You were grateful for the chance to have gotten to know him in this way.

“Just one question.” He spoke. “Do you really think I’m a mediocre soccer player?”

You blushed. You had hoped to erase that part from your memory, but apparently he found it humorous as he gazed at you with amusement twinkling in his amber eyes.

“I don’t even know soccer!” You tsked. “For all I know you’ve already won the Superbowl.”

Porco simply nodded, as he had grown to find your ignorance adorable. He didn’t see the need to correct you anymore.

Chapter Text

𝗜𝗧 𝗪𝗔𝗦 𝗔𝗡 𝗨𝗡𝗨𝗦𝗨𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗬 𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗠 𝗗𝗔𝗬 𝗜𝗡 𝗙𝗘𝗕𝗥𝗨𝗔𝗥𝗬 when Porco met you on the sidewalk outside the dormitory hall.

“Hey, stranger.” You nudged him. He rolled his eyes, shyly pushing a bouquet of pink roses towards you. Despite the nonchalance he attempted to convey, he was a nervous wreck. And the adorable blush on his cheeks was proof he still grew flustered around you, regardless of the countless interactions you had already had. 

“Aww. Thank you.” You accepted them, dipping your nose into their floral scent.

“I was told girls like flowers. And even though you’re barely a girl, I thought it wouldn’t hurt.” Porco shrugged, his wicked smirk displayed on his lips. You scoffed. Only Porco would add an insult to a sweet gesture.

“So why’d you tell me to meet you out here?” You motioned around you. You didn’t understand why Porco didn’t want to meet you at your dorm, considering he lived nearby, but you were intrigued by what his reasoning was. 

“‘Cause. It’s nice out and I didn’t want to go through security.” You giggled at the nickname he had given your friends, who debriefed him everytime he even so much as popped his head in to say “hey.” Especially since that one fateful night of Colt’s party, where they had arrived to find you and Porco staring “disgustingly” (Ymir’s words) into each other’s eyes over the plate of surprisingly decent breakfast he made. 

The explanation you both stuttered out wasn’t plausible by any means, but to their credit they waited until Porco awkwardly excused himself with a promise to text you later to jump on you about what the hell happened. After assuring them you were fine, just a little hungover, they squealed and gushed over what you recounted. Oddly enough, they weren’t as shocked as you thought they’d be when you confessed you had actually grown to more than tolerate Porco. In fact, they were happy for you. 

So you supposed it made sense Porco wanted to avoid the interrogation. Besides, it was nice to meet him down here- it gave you the illusion that you were starting fresh, just as two college kids who liked each other with no prior feelings of hate towards each other.

“It is nice out.” You agreed. “But I doubt you’ll be able to escape them when you drop me off. You are dropping me off, right?” You side eyed him, to which he shot you a look.

“Of course. I’ll even go inside if you’d let me.”

You smirked. “Eager on the first date, are you? Well, sorry. I don’t kiss on the first date.” You said in mock disappointment.

The glint in Porco’s amber eyes was mischievous. “No, but you certainly do before.”
You swatted his arm. “Minus five points. Where’s your first date etiquette?”

“We technically haven’t begun the date, so I get a free pass. C’mon, princess. You should know this by now. I’m never gonna stop teasing you, even just a little.”  Porco flicked your shoulder delicately, earning a frown from you. 

“Not even once?”

“Hmm.” Porco rubbed his chin in thought. “I’ll consider your birthday.”

You kicked at his ankle. “Just take me on the date already. Let’s get this torture over with.”
Porco snorted. “It’s actually a short walk. Is that okay?”

He didn’t seem to know who he was talking to. “Uh, yeah. Although, this isn’t looking too good for your date grade. No transportation?”

Porco shook his head, beginning to walk. “Something tells me I’ll be able to redeem myself.” You didn’t respond to that, a giddy smile on your face. You had gotten what you hoped came off as dolled up and not like you were trying too hard to please. You left your hair in its natural curly state, and since it had grown longer it fell over your shoulders and almost to your hips in pretty ringlets. You wore your makeup in a new subtle look you were more partial to, but with a pretty pink on your lips that in your opinion popped nicely against your skin tone. Since Spring (and Valentine’s Day) was approaching, you opted for a new cardigan with pink hearts, a skirt and some red Converse Reiner had surprisingly gifted you a few months ago since your old ones were wasted. You thought the ensemble was cute, very first date reminiscent. 

“You look, um, pretty, by the way.” Porco shyly muttered.

“What was that?” You teased. Every few steps you would subconsciously bump into his swinging arms, and every touch sent a jolt of electricity down your body.
“Egomaniac.” Porco grumbled. He knew you liked to make himself repeat compliments he gave you in some twisted way to make himself seem less prideful. Sometimes he would comply, but he figured there would be more time to shower you in praise. Right now he was still into goading you like he was a schoolkid.

The day was beautiful, the sky a pretty shade of blue that hadn’t appeared in a while. As you passed apartment complexes, you heard the distinct sound of civilization and the usual bustle of city life you had learned to associate as background noise. The trees were blooming with pretty flowers that had gone dormant during the cold winter, and it was a nice scenery compared to the dreary grey that overtook Trost during the colder season. Or perhaps the color and comforting atmosphere was more prominent because you were with Porco, your feelings for each other no longer a conflicting mess. The day was just how you felt- at peace and content. It was warm but not suffocating, and you inhaled, enjoying the first smells of the chlorophyll the trees released. 

Porco was appreciating the day. He usually didn’t notice nature or scenery, but watching how you intently observed your surroundings caused him to give the town he had lived in for the past two years a real good look. He saw Trost was somewhat quaint, a nice place to spend your youth- with someone you loved. He instinctively reached for your hand, his pinky brushing your ring finger.

You glanced at him, and met his inquisitive look. You were pretty sure he was requesting to hold your hand, in that wordless Porco way of his, and you obliged, leaning into his touch.

He closed the gap, enclosing your smaller hand into his larger palm in a fluid motion. He averted his eyes on you to pretend he was focusing on the steps in front of him, but in reality he was hoping to hide the massive grin that had come over his face at his triumph. But you caught it, and giggled at seeing him so happy. Truthfully you didn’t peg Porco as the type to want to hold hands, but he seemed to enjoy proving you wrong in every other aspect. Likewise, Porco was never the PDA mushy lover boy type to where he felt the need to hold hands walking down the street. It was just proof you had him so whipped, he barely recognized himself. And he didn’t have a problem with that.

After you strolled leisurely for a while, you made the familiar turn to your workplace.

“Are you taking me to work a shift?” You frowned.

Porco shook his head. “Nope. We’re going here.” He pointed to the ice cream parlor Jean worked at.

“Here?” You repeated, incredulous.

Porco nodded. “It’s where we discussed driving lessons. And then, well, the rest is history.” He smiled. Even just talking about you made a sense of joy fill Porco’s body.

You were pretty sure a goofy grin was plastered on your face as well. “Lead the way.”
He held the door open for you, and you entered the door with the bell chiming overhead. 

“The lovebirds have arrived.” Jean called. “About time.”
“She walks slow, bro. Can’t rush the princess.” Porco shook his head at you in fake disapproval.

You rolled your eyes. “I expect the royal treatment or else I’ll have to summon Banny.”
“Please don’t, he’ll disappear me. That’s how my last co-worker went missing.” Jean shuddered.

You giggled, and Porco led you to the glass to order. His hand drifted to the small of your back, but you didn’t mind. His presence and touch was comforting to you.

You decided on a cone, and he did as well. Once Jean served you and Porco paid (with no hesitation) and tipped Jean, he let you choose where to sit. You obviously went with the booth you had previously sat in, shooting a small smile at Porco.

“Excellent choice.” Porco nodded appreciatively. “Your date grade’s looking pretty good.”
You laughed, licking at your ice cream. The action made Porco remember the first time you had shared the booth, and how you anxiously licked at the icecream before it dripped all over your hands.

“How’s the second semester treating you so far?” Porco questioned.

Your eyes sparkled in excitement. He knew you were excited about your new courses, but neither of you had really had the chance to talk about it in depth. 

“I love my new professor! They’re really cool. I just hope they don’t assign homework over spring break.” You told him. Porco loved how when you spoke about something you enjoyed, a goofy smile would form on your lips that wouldn’t leave. He wondered if he appeared like that when he spoke about you.

“Professor Zoë is their name. I heard they have a really good curriculum, so I’m excited about that. Oh! I forgot to tell you.” You reached into your tote bag, pulling out a slip of paper. “Look what I scored!”

Porco leaned in to read the paper you extended, and as his amber eyes scanned over it you observed his reaction. You thought it was endearing how he silently formed the words with his lips, his brow furrowed and his lips in a cute scowl as he read over the page. 

“You got tickets to my soccer game?” He questioned, confusion evident on his face.

You nodded almost shyly. “Yeah, I’ve never been to a sports game before, but I heard this was the first of the season.” You blushed. “And I thought maybe you’d want some moral support.”

A grin broke out on his face. “Yeah, of course. Where are you sitting?”

“Close to the railing.” You pointed to your seat selection. Turns out all you had to do was go online, and it was inexpensive to attend. You had been nervous about telling him, wondering if he would even want you there. But now as you watched Porco happily refer to the reference numbers and transfer the information about your seating to his phone, you wondered why you would have doubted him in the first place. It’s not like he had let you down before.

“Careful.” Porco suddenly said, wiping your chin with his thumb. “You klutz.”

Your mind flashed back to the time you had bumped into him and spilled your coffee, the same words leaving his mouth. Only this time, if you weren’t mistaken, you could hear the affectionate tone he held as he regarded you. If you had been told how quickly the tables would turn, you weren’t sure you would have ever believed it.

Once you had finished your ice cream and cleaned the remnants of your trash from the table, Porco escorted you out, waving goodbye to an occupied Jean. Once outside, he grabbed your hand again, this time without asking.

“What’s next?” You questioned. You liked the feeling of Porco’s hand in your own- it felt safe. “We seem to be going backwards, since we got dessert first.”
Porco chuckled. “My bad. But the duck park is next, unless you have somewhere else in mind?” He looked to you for approval.

You shook your head. “Lead the way.”

You walked the short distance, flowing conversation as you entered the park surrounded by ducks of all kinds. You spotted a duck nest, pointing at it excitedly while Porco smiled at your reaction. It had been protected by the park rangers, but you were still able to take pictures of the mother duck and her ducklings. 

“They’re so cute.” You cooed. Porco nodded, observing how the mother duck cared for her offspring. 

“I got us food to feed them with.” Porco pulled out a medium sized bag from his bomber jacket. It was full of bird feed, and he claimed it was because ducks choked on bread. 

You sat on a nearby bench, feeding the approaching ducks. 

“That’s the one that look like Armin!” You pointed at the duck with a blonde tuft of hair you had spotted so long ago. 

“He’s still here.” Porco laughed. “Little guy.”
“It might be a girl.” You argued. 

“Little duck.” Porco corrected himself. 

You continued throwing out generous portions of the feed, every so often laughing about the antics of the ducks. There was an instance where a duck angrily quacked at Porco, and he quacked back causing an argument to form between the both of them.

“I think he just gave you the universal quack for ‘fuck you’.” You teased as the duck waddled away.

“That duck doesn’t know who it’s messing with.” He grumbled. “I’ll literally never feed it again.”

You giggled. Of course Porco would find a way to argue with a literal bird incapable of the same language as him.

After you had run out of the feed, you and Porco made your way back the familiar path of the dorms. 

“There’s one place I want to show you.” Porco said suddenly. “It’s not too far, but if you’re tired we could go another day.”

You wouldn’t admit it directly, but you enjoyed spending time with him. Hours seemed to pass like seconds, and you wouldn’t mind lengthening the date’s time if it meant getting to be with him. 

“Take me.” You squeezed his hand. 

Porco raised an eyebrow at your eagerness. He kept having to remind himself that you agreed to be here, and that you seemed to reciprocate his feelings. It was just so hard for him to believe that after everything you had both been through, you would be in this position, willing to spend more time with him outside of your allotted driving days.

“Alright.” He squeezed your hand in return, and began leading you to the familiar parking garage where he had parked his car.

He opened the door for you before getting in, and you settled into the passenger’s seat. You had only ridden once in Porco’s car, an all red Toyota Camry. You had forgotten how high tech it was, and you wondered how long it had taken him to obtain it.

“Nice car.” You commented, running your hand over the dash.

“Thanks, this one’s actually mine this time.” He smirked. 

You rolled your eyes. “Don’t let it inflate your ego now.”

“Too late.”

Once you were on the road, he handed you the aux cord. “None of that pop trash.” He said with a cheesy grin.

“Always.” You giggled, playing a Brittney Spears song Porco claimed to hate. You knew it was a lie because you caught him humming it after you kept singing it aloud.

Porco suddenly stopped at a restaurant, shooting you a wink before exiting the car.

“Where are you going?” You called from your open window.

“I ordered some food!” He called back. “We can eat it when we get there.”
He turned and you watched him enter, admiring his fit back muscles. If there was one thing you’d admit, it was that Porco sure made walking away look good.

He came out of the restaurant, some place called Salsita’s, with a big to go bag. He held it in his fist and shot you a triumphant grin, handing it to you through the window.

“This smells so good.” You inhaled the smell of the food.

“I don’t usually eat here, but when I pass by this part of town I make sure to always stop by.” He tapped your door twice then made his way to the driver’s side. “I think you’ll like it.”
You sighed. “Hell yeah.”

He chuckled, pinching your cheek. He pulled out of the parking lot and once again he was on the road, leading you to the unknown destination. 

The road wound upwards and you commented on the view below as you drove higher and higher, pointing excitedly at the city of Trost’s skyline. Your playlist had shifted to a calmer song, the tune washing over you and Porco. Night had fallen, and the stars twinkled brightly overhead.

“Let me just park… right here.” Porco squinted as he pulled into a parking spot that much to your dismay, stood almost at the edge of a clifftop. 

“Woah, that looks steep.” You leaned over, observing the edge of the cliff.

“It’s safe, trust me.” He got out, and waved at you to join him where he sat on the hood of his car. You cautiously stepped out, holding the bag of food in your arms.

Porco patted the spot next to him, and you sat down, placing the food beside you. 

“Wow.” You exhaled. You were impressed, and now you understood why Porco came up here. The view was beautiful, and you could see the city below, stars and dark clouds hovering above.  

“I told you it was worth it.” Porco crossed his arms, observing the view as well. You once again found his upturned nose and pensive expression adorable, but resisted the urge to lean over and tap the tip of his nose. 

“How did you find this spot?” You questioned. Your feet swung from where you sat on the hood as opposed to Porco’s, which were planted on the dirt below you.

“Marcel used to come here and get wasted with his college buddies. He passed it down to me my senior year of high school. Now whenever I need alone time I head up here.” Porco explained. There was a slight chill in the air as the temperature decreased, and you hugged yourself tighter into your cardigan.

“It’s really nice, Pock.” You told him. “Thank you for showing me.”

Porco smiled, and his hand pushed a lonely curl back from your face. “Let’s eat. I’m starvin’.” 

You giggled and helped him arrange the food neatly on the hood. Once you had finished and begun eating, Porco gave you his review of the items and what his personal likes and dislikes were. 

“Now this sauce, it’s okay. But this sauce, this is good.” he pointed at a green sauce in a baggie. 

“Why’d you get one you didn’t like?” You questioned, taking a bite of your food. 

Porco shrugged. “Because I wanted to see what you liked.”

Your heart swelled in appreciation. You still grew surprised Porco would consider you even in something as trivial as sauce. 

“So, which one’s your pick?” Porco asked, dipping his own food in his choice sauce.

You contemplated for a bit. “Hmm.. this one.” You pointed to the green sauce, and a smirk formed on Porco’s face.

“I knew it. I have good taste.”

You snorted. You brought your knee up on the hood, sitting in a criss-crossed position. You no longer cared about appearing lady-like, just seeking comfort atop of Porco’s hood. It wasn’t like Porco cared regardless. 

“Nice shoes.” Porco flicked at your red Converse’s sole. You noted how his smile hadn’t left his lips once since the date began.

“Oh, thanks.” You looked down at the shoes you had been gifted on Christmas. Mikasa had given them to you, but she claimed it was someone who wanted to remain anonymous. You figured it was Reiner, and when you sent him a text he accepted responsibility. After Colt’s party, you debated getting rid of them, but your old ones were beat up beyond recognition. You decided to keep them, and you figured since you were no longer keeping Reiner it would be okay. “Funny story, actually, Reiner got me them.”

Porco’s brow furrowed, and he grew silent. After a pause, you grew nervous. You didn’t think it would upset him this much, after all you were no longer associated with Reiner. Your concern grew as Porco didn’t say anything, and you could practically see the wheels in his head turning as he tried to make sense of what you told him. 

You grew exasperated at his hesitation. Was it that big a deal? You needed shoes, and you weren’t interested in Reiner. Why did he have to get all jealous? “Are you that mad?” You questioned, attempting to get him to meet your gaze. 

“Reiner didn’t get you those.” Porco muttered.

“What?” 

“Reiner didn’t get you those. I did.” Porco finally said, turning to meet your gaze directly. “I got you those shoes.”
“What?” You repeated, stunned. “How?”
Porco sighed. “I’ll prove it.” He suddenly tugged at your foot, and you kicked out of alarm. Porco shot you a look, and you sheepishly shrugged. He tried again, but this time you complied and let him tug your feet closer to him. 

“Look.” He said, tapping the tongue of the shoe. You gave him a look of confusion before looking down to where he was pointing.

Sure enough, there was an embroidered heart in the tongue of the shoe, one you hadn’t seen before. Inside the heart was the initials, “BF + DI.”

What did that even mean?

He ran his finger over the embroidered cat on the side of the heel, one you had noticed before but had assumed was Reiner’s doing.
Suddenly, it all made sense. 

“I have one more gift for you.” Mikasa said. “Wait right here.”

You and Eren shared a confused look as she went back to her room to retrieve the present. They had decided to come down a day after Christmas and exchange gifts, as New Years would be too long a wait for the more childish of you (Eren.) 

So far you had given them what you bought them and they had liked it. But you thought Mikasa and Eren had given you all they bought you already- and it seemed like Eren did, too.

Mikasa returned with a rectangular box and handed it to you. 

“When did you get her that?” Eren questioned.

You eyed the box, excited to see the components inside. 

Mikasa’s tone was bordering on secretive. “Oh, it wasn’t me. But the person who told me to give it to you asked to hide their identity.”You shot her a look. “No way. Who is it?’

Mikasa shook her head, sitting back down on the couch. “Not saying. But trust me, you know them.”

“Now I’m intrigued.” You chuckled. “And a little concerned. Who was it? Just tell me.”

Mikasa shook her head. Eren scowled. 

“So this person just stalked her?”

“No.” Mikasa rolled her eyes. “Just trust me. It’s good.”

You sighed, “If you say so.” You opened the box, and inside it was a pair of red converse, almost identical to yours save for an embroidered orange cat that resembled Goose on the heel. “Oh, my gosh.” You gasped, inspecting the shoes. “Wow. These are- they’re so cool. Mikasa, who did this?”

Mikasa wore a soft smile. “You’ll find out. But they really care about you, that’s one thing I’ll tell you.”

You were speechless. The gift was not only thoughtful, but it was personal to you. You pondered over who could have possibly given you something so intimate. Your mind automatically flashed to Porco, but you pushed the thought away. Why would Porco do that for you? You were no longer friends. You weren’t anything. 

Unless you had a secret admirer (or stalker), which according to Mikasa, you did not, it only left one option. You tried to hide the disappointment in your face as you realized Reiner could have been the one to leave you this. It didn’t make much sense why or how Reiner could have, but it was probably more plausible than Porco doing this. So you smiled and thanked Mikasa for getting it to you, and you sent a quick text to Reiner. 

hey, thank you so much for the shoes :) i loved them.

You attached a picture of you with them on with a heart emoji.

After a few minutes, Reiner responded.

Oh, no problem! Haha, I’m glad you liked them.

I did :) How did you get the cat embroidered on them like that?

There was a pause, and then Reiner responded again.

Ah, it was no big deal

You frowned. Reiner did tend to be more private you could say. Maybe he just didn’t think the information was worth disclosing. Regardless, it was the thought that counted. You sent him a final thanks and shut your phone off, returning to the conversation.

“It was you.” You said, the realization hitting you. “Porco…”

The corner of Porco’s lips quirked up in a small smile. “It took you this long to figure it out?”

You clenched your fists, the thought of Reiner making the blood in your veins boil. “No, I just- I thought maybe you could be behind it. But then I doubted it, and then when I asked Reiner he took credit for it so I never brought it up again.”

“That asshole.” Porco scoffed. “Of course he would.”

“I’m so sorry.” You frowned. “It makes so much sense now.”

“I thought the Goose embroidery would be a dead giveaway.” He chuckled. “I guess not. I waited for your text, to say you had got them. But it never came, so I thought you seriously didn’t want anything to do with me.”

You shook your head. “No, not at all. I loved them. Thank you.” You felt tears welling in your eyes at the thought of him going through all this trouble for you. He had always been there for you, even when you were too blind to see it. He had been there to protect you. He was here now, providing you with the affection and care you never knew you could have.

Porco wiped at a tear rolling down your cheek with his thumb. “Don’t cry.” He whispered. “It’s okay, I’m here now.”

You leaned in, enveloping Porco in a hug. “Thank you, for everything.”

“Always.” He whispered back. “I’m always here for you.”

You leaned back to observe his face, taking in his expression.
“Porco,” You inhaled. You had felt this way for a while now, ever since that night when he got jealous in the elevator. You didn’t think you would confess so early, but now you couldn’t resist letting it spill out. “I love you.”

Porco’s eyes widened. “You love me?”

“Yes!” You exclaimed. “Yes, you, you idiot.”

Porco grinned. “Oh, okay.”

You frowned. That wasn’t the reaction you were hoping for. “So do you-”

“I love you, and I have loved you ever since we kissed that first time. I loved you even when you wanted me out of your life, and I don’t plan on stopping any time soon, Y/N.” He said in one breath. 

You chuckled, and you were pretty sure your face was redder than a tomato. Your cheeks hurt from smiling so much, but at this moment you were determined to memorize everything about it- from the skyline below to the way the moonlight fell on Porco’s face.

“I love you, and I don’t know how I’ve gone this long without you.” He finished, a nervous laugh escaping his lips.

“I don’t know either.” You giggled, and Porco rolled his eyes. But the smirk never left his lips.

“Alright, that’s enough teasing, come here.” He pulled at your arm lightly, and you laughed. 

“What’re you doing?” You asked. He had pulled with just enough force to make you get off the car, but not enough to hurt you. 

“Come here.” he urged, pulling your hands. “Let me look at you.”

You stood in front of him, your hands on his biceps. He rested his hands on his knees, but then he wrapped them around your waist, pulling you in closer between his legs. 

“That’s better.” He leaned in, his forehead resting on yours. 

Your breath caught in your throat at his proximity. You still hadn’t adjusted to Porco being so close, despite having kissed him twice. You were flustered, and if Porco had thought about it too long he would have for sure been too.

“You’re beautiful.” He whispered. “And I mean that.”

“Yeah?” You whispered back. 

Porco nodded. “You know… I was thinking-”

“That’s a first.” 

Porco shushed you. “As I was saying… I was thinking and to be one hundred percent honest… You and I, we’d be a good match.”

“Really?” You teased. You figured he had a point, but of course he would beat around the bush before getting to it. He wasn’t usually that way, but you made him so nervous he lost all ability to form coherent sentences. It was cute in the simplest sense.

“Yes.” he gulped. “So… let’s solidify that, and make it official. Be my girlfriend.”

He gazed into your own eyes with a gleam in his own. And in that moment you knew it to be true- it was unmistakable the love that Porco held for you. After so long of quarreling, going back and forth, the pettiness- it was all to lead up to this moment. The tide had changed, and somehow, you had too. It was undeniable, and the longer you held it off the bigger the feeling got. So you stopped fighting it, and leaped in.

“Of course I’ll be your girlfriend.” You smiled. “Totally.”

Porco grinned. “Okay. So now you’re my girlfriend.”

You laughed. “Yeah, I think that’s how it works…”

“So, can I kiss my girlfriend now?” He smirked, leaning in just enough to hover over your lips.

“It’s about damn time.” You scoffed. You clutched his shirt with your fist and pulled him in, closing the gap between you for the third time. His lips felt familiar against yours, and you leaned in to deepen the kiss. Yet this time the kiss was different, an ardor unlike the ones you shared before contained. You reveled in the feel of it, of Porco, against your lips.

You stayed like that until you pulled away to regain your breath. 

Porco sighed. “Told you. It was worth the wait.”
You swatted at his chest. You allowed yourself to enjoy his embrace, warming you from the chilly February air.

“I could get used to this.” he murmured against your head. You turned to lean against him and watch the skyline below, where Trost was located. The city where you had found the boy you truly loved. And in that moment you were convinced you wouldn’t change a thing.

“I could, too.” With Porco’s arms wrapped around you, you agreed. 

-

Porco turned to the sound of excessive honking, and nearly fell backward in shock. 

You were behind the wheel of your brand new mini cooper, just purchased from Erwin Smith, the lawyer. You wore pink sunglasses and a 50’s pink hair scarf around your curls, a purchase you had made specifically for when you dropped the top and rode it in convertible mode. Now, your dream had become a reality and you were now mobile, no longer tied down to bus schedules and walking distances. The weather would no longer be an issue, a fact you were grateful for as the summer sun beat down on Trost below. But with your highly functioning A/C, you were more than set to handle it.

“Get in, loser.” You honked once more, to which Porco rolled his eyes. But he obliged, jumping into the passenger seat. He had been outside the dining hall, getting ready to go see you in your dorm, but you surprised him first. 

“Nice ride.” He commented, running his hands over the red leather upholstery. “I didn’t think you’d get it so soon.”

“I was ready, and he was available. Hence me being here.”
Porco chuckled, leaning in to press his usual kiss to your cheek. “I see that. So where’s the first place you’re going with your brand new car, and license?”

You smirked. “I know a place.”

It had been a few months since you and Porco officially got together, much to the surprise of all your friends. You went home that night, not in secret but not quite the same as you had left, a fact which did not go unnoticed by Mikasa. But as you knew, she didn’t pry. And then the next day, during her pre-birthday get together (there was always one before, to discuss what you would all do the actual day of, much to Mikasa’s reluctance) when Porco showed up, and you intertwined your hands instead of kicking him out, it was safe to say there was a flurry of emotions.

“No fucking way!” Connie had unceremoniously yelled, causing Porco to wince.

“About time!” Jean grinned, throwing a hand around Hitch. “I couldn’t keep it to myself anymore.”
“You knew?” Eren snapped to face him.

Jean wore a smug expression. “Yep, and I was the one to set them up. See, I told you you’d thank me one day!” He arrogantly explained.

Hitch giggled, making eye contact with you. She smiled, then shot you a wink. In a shocking turn of events, both Jean and Hitch had turned out to be right about their theories on you two. You supposed Jean could take responsibility for bringing you two together, but you chose not to say so and cause him even more arrogance. Besides, you had paid him back with Hitch, who seemed to be the only one who could match his energy.

“I think everyone knew, genius.” Ymir scoffed. “I mean, I kind of thought something was going on by the way you basically eye-fucked each other a few days ago. But thanks for confirming.”

“Ymir!” Historia hissed. “Ignore her.” she told Porco. You didn’t need the reminder, as you were used to her by now.

“Congrats, guys! I’m so happy for you.” Armin smiled from his spot on the couch. “I can’t say I saw it coming,” He chuckled. “But I think you’re a good match.”
You blushed, leaning into Porco. “Thank you, Armin. I guess opposites attract, eventually. Somehow.” You turned to Porco for approval of the quote but he shook his head using his hand to make a “quit” gesture, confirming your suspicion that the quote was too cheesy to describe your budding relationship.

“So, what made you cave?” Eren teased, coming up behind Porco to clap a hand on his shoulder. 

Porco rolled his eyes. “Shut up.”

You broke apart to greet your friends, who had moved on from the commotion of the world’s weirdest couple getting together onto something else. You were grateful in that moment that they accepted your decision, and weren’t judgemental. Begrudgingly you could admit that maybe they had seen through you a little too well. You weren’t upset about it at all, choosing to laugh and joke around with your friends as the subject shifted to a fairly exaggerated telling of Historia’s latest adventure. You leaned your head on Mikasa’s shoulder, and she wrapped her arm around you. 

“So it was him after all, huh?”

You squeezed your eyes shut. You were going to have to get used to the fact that you no longer had to deny liking Porco. “I believe so.”

Mikasa squeezed your shoulder. “I’m so happy for you. You deserve all the happiness in the world, roomie.”
You felt tears welling in your eyes at her words. A lot of things made you question reality, but above all was Mikasa’s friendship. You couldn’t explain how you had gotten so lucky.

Across the room, Porco watched you. In his hands was a red solo cup that Jean had given him, and every so often he’d press his lips to it, taking a sip as the boys discussed subjects passionately. He was too preoccupied to form an opinion, much less participate in active conversation without getting distracted. 

You looked stunning, per usual, but this time Porco swore you held a glow to you he hadn’t noticed before. As he watched you laugh and enjoy yourself, he found himself questioning how on earth he had been blessed with you. He still found himself breathless around you, but for different reasons. He wasn’t sure anything else could make him feel the way you did.

Now as you sped up the winding path you had practically memorized, the same feeling returned to Porco. He could often spend hours mesmerized watching you. There were subtle differences in your appearances, like the shorter layers you had cut in your hair, or how you had a certain confidence now that you didn’t before. Porco didn’t want to attribute the new self esteem you had acquired to him, but ever since you had begun officially dating, you changed. That’s why he would call you his Blossom sometime, because it was like you suddenly opened yourself up to life.

Realistically though there were many new factors in your reinvention. You were able to secure a job with Professor Zoë on campus as a research assistant, which was a stark contrast to your job at the craft score but a welcome change. You had gotten to the point where you would dream about fabric quantity and the weekly sales. After a particularly harrowing dream about running out of googly eyed stickers, you decided it was time to quit. Plus, you would make more than you ever could at Garrison’s with Professor Zoë. 

It was a bittersweet change, having to say goodbye to the coworkers you had grown fond of and your daily conversations with Jean, who you were used to seeing only a few steps away. But he and Nanaba were happy for you, and Jean stated that he, too, was in need of a change. 

“Gonna miss you, kid.” Nanaba hugged you on your last day, much to your surprise.  She wasn’t a very affectionate person, but your leaving moved her enough to be. You also found it amusing how she always referred to you as “kid”, even though she was only a few years older. 

“I’ll miss you too, Nanaba. Thank you.” You told her.

Nanaba pulled away, wiping a tear from her eye. “I feel like it was barely yesterday you were asking me how to stock the ribbon!”

You chuckled. You had a lot to be grateful to Nanaba for, especially all the advice she had given you in the short year and a half you had worked there. You would miss that cut throat honesty of hers, and you hoped you would be in contact. 

You turned in your uniform and your name tag that day, a melancholy feeling washing over you. You stared at your reflection in the backroom mirror, where you had scrutinized your appearance so many times before. Only this time, you realized you looked different. You had mastered a hair routine suitable for your curls, your straightener long forgotten in your bathroom cabinet. You also seemed visibly brighter, your posture straighter and an air of confidence around you. Your parents, and your friends, had told you so, but you hadn’t seen it until now. You wondered when you had changed this much. It was funny how life worked- subtle differences that could make a world of difference in your appearance and attitude. You hadn’t even been trying to- everything just fell into place, and happiness followed. There were days school, or work, or other responsibilities stressed you out- but ultimately you were the happiest you had been since you began college. The best part of it was that you had undergone this metamorphosis with people you loved by your side, who were willing to see you through the other side. 

Porco, too, had undergone change. He was no longer the rude, dry, condescending a-hole you had first thought. He was still snappy, and sarcastic as ever, but you were his soft spot and it was obvious to anyone who observed you two for a few minutes. You could feel his love in the small gestures, like when he reached over to wipe your chin of ice cream that you always managed to spill, or how he placed his hand over your own when he was driving. It was him handing you the aux whenever you got in, but only to you, because nobody else could control the music in his car. It was walking you to your dorm no matter how close or far it was. It was holding your hair back when you had a little too many jello shots, or wiping your makeup off when you passed out on his shoulder after a long night of watching movies. You learned then what it truly meant to be seen and appreciated for you. Apparently, something Porco had intended to do when he first met you but failed so terribly.

“Wait,” you laughed. “You mean to tell me, you were mean to me because you were shy?”

Upon interrogating him about his arrogance your first meeting, he had no idea how to explain logically why he couldn’t control his sarcastic impulses. “I already said yes.” He grumbled.

You laughed, clutching your side. You just couldn’t believe something so childish, but then again, you could. Porco had never been good at expressing his emotions, which was something he had gotten reasonably better in his relationship with you, but nonetheless still bad at. “So your first instinct was to snap at me? Are you five?”
“Shut up. Why do I even like you?” He groaned, turning his back to you. You giggled, wrapping your arms around him.

“You are so stupid. It’s no wonder nobody wanted you before, until I came along and decided to do some charity work.”

He rolled his eyes, but the small smirk on his lips gave away his true mood. He wasn’t ready to admit it just yet, but you truly had been the first person he could see himself beside always. You teased him endlessly about being his first real girlfriend (not that you had much room to talk, considering you had zero boyfriends as well) but he never bothered to hide his pride that it was you who broke his long streak of being single. And if he had had to wait more for you, he was certain he would have.

Now you’re en route to becoming juniors. Time truly did fly when you were having fun, as you were learning. If someone had told you that the dick from freshman year would be your boyfriend, you’d probably cry. Instead, he sat in your passenger seat, your cat eye sunglasses on his chiseled face as you cruised down the streets of your town.

“Nice look.” You teased. He shot you a peace sign and a kissy face, your signature pose. You had gotten so used to seeing this silly side to Porco, it was almost hard to remember a time he wasn’t like this. 

“I found them in your glove compartment.” He said in a high pitched voice. “Do I look cute or hot? Would you still love me if I was a pebble?”

You swatted at him. It was clear he was imitating you, a fact you did not appreciate especially in your car.

“Eyes on the road, princess.” He huffed in the annoying voice, flipping his imaginary hair over his shoulder. 

Porco had taken to calling you this name, both affectionately and teasingly, in the short time you had been together. It was equally heartwarming and eye-roll inducing, but now you associated the pet name with him. Speaking of pet names-

“Butterfingers.” Porco tsked, placing his hand over yours on the gear shift. “Once a driving instructor, always a driving instructor.”

Apparently you weren’t shifting correctly. You allowed Porco to guide you, relishing the familiar calluses and ridges of his palm on your hand. 

He had revealed the origin of the mysterious initials embroidered into the heart of your now favorite Converse. You had given him props for the serious creativity. “BF” = Butterfingers, and “DI” was Driving Instructor, not Bitch Face and Dick Idiot like you had proposed before he told you the meaning. After he explained the meaning behind everything, including how he even managed to get them embroidered in the first place (paying art students- smart move), you realized Reiner truly could never be able to come up with something so in depth, so meaningful. 

Since the night he left you to take Marlo to the hospital, you had only spoken to him once. He had encountered you in the cafeteria a week or so after he hadn’t even so much as texted you.

“Y/N! Hey! What’re you doing here?” He exclaimed, as if you were some long lost friend.

You blinked at him, glancing at the tray of food in your hands, then back at him. Noting your worldess reply, he continued unphased. “So, Colt’s party.”

You raised an eyebrow. You were no longer interested in whatever he had to say about that night, having given him the benefit of the doubt and then losing it after the 3rd day with no word from him. 

Reiner faltered upon seeing your blank expression. 

“Yeah?” You prodded.

You could see Reiner visibly shrink at your despondence, perhaps not expecting your change in demeanor. You were surprised he was confused, as abandoning your date while drunk at a party seemed like an obvious way to be disgraced. 

“Listen, I just wanted to apologize. I was just looking out for my bro, and I knew you’d be okay, you seem tough.” He scratched the back of his neck, offering a wobbly smile at you.

You blinked. “You thought you could leave me alone, drunk, in an unfamiliar place, and that I would just be okay with that?” 

Reiner turned red, either in embarrassment or irritation you couldn’t tell. “I-that wasn’t my intention.” he let out an airy laugh.
You felt your eyes narrowing at him. You had time today, and you were just about done preserving his feelings. “Then you’re a bigger idiot than I thought.” You snapped, pushing past him.

Reiner swiveled around, disbelief written on his once handsome face. You didn’t stick around to find out what he had to say, exiting the cafeteria with the anger running through your veins invigorating you. 

After that Reiner made himself scarce, it was rare that you saw him on campus, much less had a conversation. Consequently, he and Porco drifted apart and the last you both heard he was planning on transferring to Marley University next semester to play for the opposing team. Good riddance.

As for Porco, he was happier than you had ever seen him. He was thriving, moving his way up the ranks and becoming the first freshman to break a record of some sort for the university soccer team. He had explained the logistics to you but since you were no sports fan, you tended to just zone out. Regardless, you were proud of him and apparently it was a big deal because he had a ceremony of some sort, where you were his date. He was excited to receive the honor, and you were excited for him, the food, and the cute dress you got to wear. It was a win-win, and you were beginning to see the appeal to having a soccer player boyfriend. Especially since Porco helped you smuggle sweets and bacon wrapped food afterwards.

His grades had also improved, thanks to you. He helped you with math and you revised his essays, which were always littered with incorrect grammar you were more than happy to tease him about. He ended up getting an A- for his project with Eren, which he was finally able to complete. Every time you saw the model city they had built, and the little trolley train Eren had misplaced the day Porco helped you rescue Mikasa, a smile crept on your face. You couldn’t believe how something seemingly so small and insignificant could come to make a world of difference. In a way, it was like the Universe (and Jean) had conspired against you to bring you and Porco together. You now understood why people said the best things in life are unexpected. 

Of course, Porco played a part in securing this future. Underneath his tough exterior, he was a huge softie you often found yourself doubting how you had ever found him intimidating. He was just a grumpy, stubborn meanie who loved to devour your sweets and had no concept of personal space.

You recalled this trait about him as he leaned on you. You had long parked your car at the edge of the cliff you had become familiar with, gazing at the skyline below you as you were used to. Porco’s long, muscular legs were dangling over his passenger side window, his weight pressing into you as he leaned on you like you were a pillow.

“You’re crushing me.” You complained, shoving him. It was no use, he was too heavy for your puny hands to lift.

“No, but I am crushing on you.” He teased. You rolled your eyes.

“When people start to date, they tend to become less insufferable.” 

Porco chuckled. “Me? Never.”

You opened your car door. “C’mon.” 

Porco followed suit, and you followed the tradition that had formed between you. You stood in between his spread legs, leaning back into his embrace as you watched the bumbling city below you. 

“Congratulations on your new ride, baby.” Porco kissed your forehead. “My car’s still better, but this one’s pretty cool too.”

You rolled your eyes. You shut your eyes as Porco leaned down to give you yet another kiss.
“I can’t believe how far we’ve come.” You whispered. Porco was too busy ravaging your face with slow kisses to pay you any mind, noticeable by his “Huh?” As he unstuck his lips from your face. 

“It’s true.” You repeated. “Who would’ve thought we would be here, sitting on my new car, dating and in completely different positions than when we started?”

“Hmm…” Porco pondered it for a bit. “I knew.”

You shot him a look of disbelief and mild irritation. “Yeah, right.”
“No, I did.” Porco nodded, the corner of his lips turning into a smile that could make your knees wobble. “I knew you were special.”

“Liar.” You shook your head. 

“I did.” Porco insisted. “Why do you think I hung around you so much, making you miserable? It’s like I subconsciously couldn’t stay away from you.” He reached into his pocket and pulled out a sack of brownies you had given him just yesterday. “And your baking’s just a bonus of course.”

You opened your mouth and he popped a piece in. You chewed on it, humming in satisfaction. Surprisingly, you didn’t really eat your sweets as often as you baked them. Either the smell was enough to satisfy you or your friends and Porco hoarded the stash, so it was rare for you to actually sit down and eat what you made. You could see why Porco was addicted to your sweets now.

“Chef L/N.” Porco smirked. 

You groaned. “Not again.”
“I still don’t get why you don’t like your last name!” Porco chuckled. You turned to face him now, wrapping your arms around his waist and leaning in for a hug. You weren’t big on public displays of affection, but seeing as nobody was around you tended to make an exception.

“Because,” You grumbled. “It makes me feel like… like I’m back in all those torturous years of middle and high school. And plus. Kids would add some cruel adjectives in front of it.”

Porco had to hold back the loud cackle on the tip of his tongue. “You’re kidding. Like… Smelly L/N? Or Weirdo L/N?”
You let out an exasperated cry. “Stop! It’s not funny!” You could basically hear the laugh threatening to spill out of Porco. 

“I’m sorry, it’s just… Really?” He could no longer hold it, letting out small laughs.

You refused to look up, clutching tightly to his arms. “I can’t stand you. We’re breaking up. This is too much.”
Porco laughed harder, rubbing your back. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry. It’s just so silly. But I understand now. Too many traumatic memories.”

“How did you guess Smelly L/N?” You questioned, pulling back to observe his facial expression.

Porco’s eyes crinkled in laughter once more. “I was just guessing!”

“Of course you would be a natural at mean nicknames, you bully.” You muttered. 

Porco pulled you in again, much to your (fake) protest. “Oh, shush. I know you can handle it.”
“Lucky me.” You rolled your eyes.

Porco kissed the tip of your nose, and despite your best efforts you felt a blush spread across your cheeks. “No, lucky me.” He whispered.

You smiled then. Despite all your differences, and the various bouts of banter you two often broke into that could last a little too long, you never felt happier. You were sure you had made the right decision after all, and with Porco by your side you felt like you truly could conquer the world. The world after all, as you were learning, had a funny way of going about things. One minute you were spilling coffee on your resident asshole and the next you were kissing said asshole, all your worries melting away as he deepened the embrace. It was the little things after all, that made the big differences. Like every time you got into his car he opened the door for you, and there on his dashboard was a polaroid of you two. Or how you made him special brownies with your initials in icing, that only he was allowed to eat. It was also the big things, how he pushed you to be the best version of yourself you had to offer. How you encouraged him when he felt burnt out. 

 Maybe you could have had a different life, be off somewhere you would be more successful, richer, maybe you’d struggle less. Yet you wouldn’t trade this moment with Porco, or any of the moments over the years, for anything else.