The Bookshop - Levi x Eren

Nineteen

It took Levi a few days to gain consciousness. It started with him moving more and more, then he would open his eyes every once in a while. He wasn't able to keep them open for long, and the doctors didn't think he actually saw something when he opened them. He was getting better, slowly, but surely. 

I tried to be with him as much as possible. On Sunday, Erwin kept the bookstore closed, so he could rest a little, and I could go to the hospital. I was sitting next to his bed with my head on his lap, his hand in mine. The room was quiet, only the sound of beeping machines and distant footsteps could be heard. But all I was listening to was Levi's breathing, slow and steadily. He no longer needed a machine to keep him breathing, which made him look peacefully asleep. I closed my eyes, listening to our breathing synchronizing. I laid for what was probably hours, ignoring the nurses and doctors who came in. My father came to check on me, and so did Hanji, but I pretended to be asleep. I didn't want to be interrupted, I just wanted to be here with him. 

When Levi's breathing changed, I opened my eyes, and when he spoke, his voice was nothing more than a whisper. 

"Eren?" 

I sat up straight. Levi's eyes were opened. He was looking at me, frowning, as if the simple task took all his energy. He opened his mouth, and repeated my name, a little louder this time. 

"I'm here," I said, gently squeezing his hand. 

"What-" Levi took a deep breath and shut his eyes. "What happened?"

"You and Erwin were in a car crash, you're in the hospital." 

"Erwin-" Another deep breath. "He okay?" 

"Yes, he's fine." 

I decided not to tell him about Erwin's arm, at least not yet. Levi didn't need to worry about that right now, and he most certainly didn't need to blame himself, which I knew he would. 

"My head hurts," Levi whispered, as he opened his eyes again. 

"It's okay. I'll go and get you a doctor, just stay still," I said as I gave him a small peck on his lips. 

I walked towards the door. 

Behind me, Levi whispered:

"Thanks, love you." 

I stopped dead in my tracks. He said it. He said the L-word. I turned around, but Levi's eyes were closed again. He was asleep.