An Ackerman's secret

26

A few days passed which consisted of training and planning for the expedition. It wasn't going to be long before it came around and it was vital that we were prepared.

New years eve was here and I was excited for the new year. This year had been one of the most chaotic years of my entire life. So much happened, mostly bad, but also good.

There wasn't much planned, but Hange wanted to test out something that they helped construct. Fireworks. They warned us that it might go wrong, but from their description of what they could look like, we all wanted to see them.

So we all wrapped up warm since it was still snowing and gathered on the biggest hill we could find to get a good view of the fireworks. Hange and Levi were arguing the entire time about how they were going to set the fireworks off while we all waited, laughing at their bickering.

"This is so going to go wrong." Connie pointed out.

I laughed, "Hm I don't know. I believe in Hange."

Everyone burst into laughter as Hange let out a scream and I quickly doubted what I was saying. "You believe in that?" Jean questioned and I smacked my forehead with my palm.

It was getting closer to new years and we still were unsuccessful with the fireworks. It wasn't looking too good for us. We didn't need the fireworks, but Hange insisted, determined to make them work.

"Okay everyone! Get ready!" They shouted up to us.

I smiled to myself and suddenly felt his presence next to me. Turning to face him, I could see the same smile on his face as his hand interlocked with mine.

"Got a wish for next year?" I asked.

He stared straight ahead, thinking to himself. Normally I never had wishes because it felt impossible for any of them to come true. I had zero hope before. But now, I feel like I can do anything I want and I'm actually feeling positive about the upcoming year.

"Not in particular." Levi gave me a blunt answer and I frowned at him. His eyes met mine and he spoke again, "Just to be with a certain someone."

I raised my eyebrows, holding back the biggest grin. "Oh really? Who might that be?"

"You know them quite well. They are the prettiest girl I've ever met." He tucked a strand of my hair behind my ear and caressed the blush that spread across my face.

I could hear Hange and the others beginning the countdown and before anyone could see us, I pulled away from Levi and joined in. However, I didn't release my hand from his, but even if I wanted to, he wouldn't let me.

"FIVE."

My eyes travelled up to his and I could see a glint that lit up his pale eyes. They were soft and gentle, just like his touch on me.

"FOUR."

Levi grabbed my other hand and held both of our hands in front of us, pulling me closer. His face was a faint shade of pink that matched his lips and I didn't dare pull my eyes away from him. He was so perfect.

"THREE."

We matched each other with our smiles and in this moment, I wasn't even thinking about anything else other than him. This is what I have been longing for.

"TWO."

He stroked my palm with his thumb and I realised that had become our little thing. I loved it and he knew that, which is why he did it so often. My body was overwhelmed by his presence and my heart was completely captured by him.

"ONE."

Loud bangs set off and I turned my head to watch the fireworks explode. They sparkled and ranged in colours, lighting up the night sky. It was beautiful.