Pursuit of Happiness

6. Celebration and Old Memories

Summary: This is the day the Ackerman family celebrates the first birthday of their beloved daughter. So Mikasa and her former comrades plan a party to celebrate. She knows Levi will be fussy about it, but she thinks it's worth the time of her spouse.

Mikasa is fortunate to be surrounded by her long-term friends. Her husband, without even admitting it, also enjoys it.

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"Gabi! Could you help me do the dishes?" Mikasa request as she puts the food in the large basket.

"Yes, Ma!" Gabi reply and makes her way to the sink to take care of her newly appointed duty.

Today is going to be an exciting day. Kuchel Ackerman, the Ackerman's firstborn, turns one today. Time flies fast, and Mikasa can't believe it's already been one year since Kuchel was born. A tender recollection of memories when Mikasa holds Kuchel for the first time brings her to tears.

Mikasa could hear the laughter of Kuchel and Falco as Levi scolded them. She couldn't help but giggle. She has a vivid picture of Levi's expression when he's irritated, and she knows that teasing him about it will make him angry.

She walks silently to the living room entryway and silently watches her husband and the two kids. Levi struggles to dress up Kuchel in the living room in her new dress. He hunched over on the sofa while looking at the two annoying brats running around. The little girl happily runs around the room with Falco as she screams along. Kuchel getting more and more naughty and energetic as she grows up.

As she approaches the living room's threshold, she stands still and observes her husband and the two children. Levi is having difficulty getting Kuchel dressed in her new outfit in the living room. He watches as the two obnoxious brats run around. The little girl cries with Falco by her side as she runs around the room. As she grows, Kuchel becomes more mischievous and restless.

'Well, she's technically a little brat.'

"Oi brat, could you please be more cooperative?" Levi's deep voice is enough to make Falco immediately stop running.

Falco turns to look at the older man with a menacing glare. He gulps and carries Kuchel in his arms.

"I'm sorry, Paps," Falco apologizes and bows.

Levi rolls his eyes and takes Kuchel from Falco's arms. "Tch,"

Mikasa chuckles softly as she hides from Levi and Falco. Levi lecturing at Falco makes her feel pity for the boy.

Gabi and Falco decided to stay in Ackerman's household for three days to celebrate Kuchel's birthday together. Their parents allow them to spend time with the Ackermans. The Ackermans have been entrusted by Gabi and Falco's parent. The Ackermans are those people who protect Gabi and Falco throughout the war in the past. Both Levi and Mikasa accept them with open arms.

Mikasa returns to the kitchen and sees Gabi, who is already finished with her work. She gives Gabi a sincere smile and pats the girl's head tenderly. "Good work, and thank you so much,"

Gabi's company is much appreciated by Mikasa. When Levi is away, Gabi could accompany her along with Falco to play with Kuchel and help her with the garden. She thinks of them as her own family when she thinks of them. Mikasa enjoys how much livelier the house is becoming. At least Kuchel and herself will not be lonely.

Familiar heavy footsteps are coming toward the kitchen, and Levi shows up with a frown. He leans against the wall and crosses his arms as his face contorted with irritation.

Before Mikasa could say anything, the man spoke up first.

"Are you seriously want to invite them?" Levi complains.