Lara (Long-Fic Levihan | Armin Arlert X OC)

Chapter 80 - Dedication

It was almost dinnertime when Armin placed a blanket over Levi's shoulders, who was fast asleep, sitting in a chair, hunched over the infirmary bed where Hange was also sleeping. Making as little noise as possible, Lara gently removed her mother's glasses and eye patch, tucking her in. She also put a pillow under Hange's feet so she could sleep more comfortably.

The doctors had given Hange a tranquilizer, for the shock she got from the hit had caused her blood pressure to rise considerably, and if she didn't calm down, they worried that something worse could happen.

From what the doctors could diagnose, fortunately, the hit hadn't caused any serious damage to the baby or to Hange, but they thought it best for her to spend the night in the infirmary, in observation. Levi looked very worried and tired in his sleep, and Lara felt her eyes burn at seeing her parents in that condition. She didn't even notice when Armin got closer and gently squeezed her shoulders.

"Come, baby," he whispered, "you need to eat something. Let them rest."

Downcast, Lara nodded and Armin ushered her out of the room, closing the door behind him. The corridors were dark, silent, and cold. Only the sounds of other patients, doctors, and nurses echoed here and there, coming from some other rooms of the infirmary.

When Lara found herself alone with Armin, she slowly leaned her forehead against his chest and began to cry, softly. At the same instant, he wrapped his arms around her, stroking her back and placing soft kisses on the top of her head.

"W-Why it had to happen, now of all times?" Lara asked herself, sobbing, "My father c-can't leave us. He needs to stay with m-my mother." She took a deep breath, her chest trembling, "And not knowing where he will be is even worse!"

"I know, I know..." replied Armin, while patting her lightly on the back. He pressed his lips together and frowned in concern.

Lara had said that, because in the afternoon, Levi had to leave the infirmary for an important meeting and it had come to the conclusion that they would have to take Zeke into custody in the Forest of Giant Trees, away from society. The reason was that the area was suitable, for the Forest limits the utility of his Beast Titan and is perfect for using the ODM gear if something happens. Levi was put in charge of Zeke's custody, because he obviously was the most qualified person for that.

Hange, Lara, and Levi felt a strong tightness in their chests, knowing that they would have to be separated, for an indefinite time, especially during this situation that Hange was going through. However, they couldn't help but think that Levi was, indeed, the best person to keep Zeke's guard. Levi would leave the next morning, in the company of thirty other soldiers.

However, only Hange could know where Levi would stay with Zeke, and unfortunately, Lara and Armin could not have access to this information, due to orders from above. Of course, they were very curious, but their years of experience as soldiers made them understand that they could not insist on knowing more about confidential matters, even if it was something that was extremely important to them.

"Don't worry, my love," said Armin, taking Lara's chin, so she could look up at him, "I'll help you with whatever you need. You can count on me," he gave her a little smile, "I'm sure your father will be fine and he'll be back soon."

Lara blinked slowly, smiling back and giving him a tight hug.

"Thank you so much, babe..." she sighed, "And thank you for making my father come back. I have no idea what you told him, but it worked." Lara gazed deeply at Armin, "You're amazing, I love you."

Armin pressed his lips against hers in a soft, comforting peck kiss, telling her he also loved her very much. He asked her to go to have dinner and then, they both left the infirmary with their hands entwined.