The morning sun filters through the windows of the barracks, casting a soft golden light on the room. The sound of distant laughter and clinking dishes drifts in from the mess hall as the 104th begins their day. “Armin!” Eren’s voice calls from the hallway, breaking the peaceful silence. Moments later, Eren bursts into the room, his usual energy in full force. “C’mon, Mikasa’s waiting outside. We’re eating together today, remember?”

Armin glances up with a small, warm smile. “I didn’t forget,” he replies softly, carefully marking his page with a folded scrap of paper. Before he can even stand, Eren is already tugging him up by the wrist.

“Let’s go!” Eren grins, practically dragging him toward the door.

As they step into the hallway, Mikasa is waiting with her arms crossed, scarf wrapped snugly around her neck. Her expression softens the moment she sees Armin. Without a word, she steps forward and pulls him into a brief but firm hug.

“Good morning,” she murmurs, her voice as quiet as the gesture.

“Good morning, Mikasa,” Armin replies, a faint blush coloring his cheeks at the sudden affection.

By the time they reach the mess hall, the rest of the 104th has already claimed a table. Sasha waves enthusiastically, her mouth already full of food, while Connie beckons them over with exaggerated gestures.

“About time!” Jean calls, leaning back in his chair with a teasing smirk. “Thought you were hiding from us, Arlert.”

Armin chuckles softly as he takes his seat between Eren and Mikasa. Within moments, Sasha is offering him a piece of bread, Jean is already teasing Eren about something trivial, and Connie is roping Armin into a debate about the best breakfast combinations.

Just a slice of Armin's life.