It's not something he could have allowed himself before; there were always risks, always things that Erwin would want him to prioritize over his life. Those were the decisions they understood and trusted one another to make. But that fight doesn't exist here, and so neither do those necessary sacrifices. Here, he can keep Erwin safe. Or try to, at least. So far he's done an abominable job of it when it matters most.

Par for the course, really. But it doesn't have to be.

There's a faint noise of confusion and surprise when Erwin bends down and then lifts him to the counter, his hands going to broad shoulders to steady himself as his feet leave the floor. For some reason, that sets his heart beating faster once again, especially feeling the strength in him, the strong grip against his thigh. Levi has always known that Erwin is strong - the man had held his own that first day they met, after all - but so rarely has it ever been used on him.

He huffs in an obligatory protest - ass on the counter, really? - but can't argue with the results. Winding fingers into Erwin's shirt collar, he tugs him close, knees to either side of hips.

"You been working out when I'm not looking, Blondie?"