Fallen [Levi Ackerman]

Chapter Five

How much more did I put up with this shit? How much more reports do I have to go through and sign? Gazing at the stack of papers on my desk I release a loud groan.

Too many, I think bitterly. And it was already late into the night. I roughly sign a paper not caring if blotches of ink splattered the paper in the process.

Either Erwin was a sadist who enjoyed seeing his subordinates suffer, or he was pissed off. I would like to think it was the last option because I was in a hellish mood despite the crap he piled on to me not too long ago. I look at the opened envelope on my desk, giving it a hateful glare.

Grabbing it roughly I reopen the envelope, and yank out the paper. Skimming over the letter I could feel myself getting furious all over again. My muscles started to shake uncontrollably to the point I crumple part of the letter.

"Damn it," I grumble before tossing it back on the desk.

The letter contained the information concerning the upcoming court meeting that will discuss the future of the Scout Regiment. We had failed to keep the promise we made with the government to successfully capture a Titan and gain new information.

Hell, we even wasted a hell of a good funding from the people, leaving every district to be more than furious with us. No doubt this would all go up in flames. I could already see every Military Police and Garrison officer ordering General Zachary to disband our regiment.

I push myself to my feet. I needed fresh air, probably more than anything right now. Spending the entire day locked up in the office was already getting to me.

I missed dinner at the mess hall hours ago, and I was beyond starving. Glancing over my shoulder I notice how high the moon was. It was late, no one would be venturing about the building.

I head out the office heading for the kitchens. Whipping up a quick meal would restore my energy. And all the paperwork on my desk could be finished.

I just needed a small break, that's all. As I venture down the hall I find myself slowing to a stop. Glancing to my right I notice the door to Levi's office.

I hadn't seen him since locking myself in my office. Not once did he barge into my office demanding to know why I was acting like a child. I scoff at the simple image of him flaring his nostrils in disappointment. I can already hear him scolding me.

The blood in my veins suddenly felt hot. My feet shifting anxiously on the floor. The last time we spoke was in Shinganshina, when he saw me crying.

Three months ago I promised myself I would stop appearing weak in front of him. I knew deep down that wasn't a sight he wished to see nor was it something I would like to show.

I was sure by now he hates seeing me cry, hell, he probably thinks it's childish of me to breakdown like that. I shake my head, even if he thinks such things he would tell me off like old times. Right?

Tearing my eyes away from his door I continue my trek to the kitchens. When I enter the mess hall the area was dark and eerie. There was even a cold draft pricking at my skin.

There was an open doorway, the light was dim and flickering. Did someone leave the fireplace on? I step into the kitchen suddenly taken aback by the strong aroma smell.

It was rich and strong, but there was also a whiff of freshly brewed tea leaves. Someone was here too and it doesn't take a detective to know who it was. Only the dying fire of the fireplace to my left gave enough light to see a figure leaning against the island.

Back turned to me Levi was staring at the teakettle atop the stovetop. He wore a simple long-sleeved shirt and sweats. It was first for me to see him dressed in such a way.