Ymir's Necklace: The Secret You Hold | Levi x Reader

Cry

LEVI'S POV

Levi emerged from the depths of sleep with a gradual surrender, his body reluctantly acknowledging his enviroment. Propped up on his bed, his eyelids felt weighted, the burden of consciousness settling upon him. Then, like a tide, the ache surged through him, a sharp, relentless agony nestled beneath his left knee.  He exhaled heavily, each breath a labor against the pain. Clenching his fists, he shut his eyes tight, teeth grinding against the torment. The pain felt almost too familiar - he involuntarily recalled just how much he had screwed up his leg years ago during the final battle.

Suppressing a cry, Levi battled his pride, grappling with the raw intensity of the sensation. A solitary tear trailed down his cheek, a silent admission of his suffering he would forever conceal as a bodily reflex. This ordeal, he knew, surpassed any preparation for post-surgery pain.

Dr. Keith entered the tent bearing a steaming cup of tea, his arrival a respite from Levi's torment. With practiced care, he assisted the former Captain into a semi-upright position, offering the cup as relief.

"Here, this should help ease the pain," Dr. Keith offered.

Levi gulped the scalding tea, oblivious to its temperature in his desperation for respite. Collapsing back onto his pillow, he shut his eyes, the crease of his brow betraying his continued discomfort.

"The tea should also help you fall asleep," Dr. Keith added.

"Has anyone come here?" Levi's voice was a whisper, interrupting the doctor's thoughts. As he spoke, he felt a deep, uncomfortable weight over his chest.

Dr. Keith paused, looking surprised by his question. "Yes, Gabi and Falco stopped by while you were resting."

Levi's eyes fluttered open, a hint of a frown lingering. "Anyone else?"

"Y/n is right outside. She wanted to wait until you woke up to enter," Dr. Keith replied. Levi's expression softened, understanding your reluctance. He sensed your fear, the prospect of witnessing him in such a vulnerable state.

Recalling the morning when he held you close, he realized he would have done the same, shielding himself from the sight of your unconscious form, fearing you might never wake. The thought alone made him feel uneasy.

"Should I send her in?" Dr. Keith asked.

"Yes", he muttered lowly. Minutes later, you entered the tent, your presence a balm to Levi's anguish. As you drew near, he scrutinized your every movement, from the sway of your skirt to the ethereal grace of your form. Your eyes, wide with concern, met his, your touch gentle as you clasped his hand. A solitary tear escaped you, yet your composure remained steadfast, a testament to your relief.

Your fingers brushed his cheek, the soft caress a lifeline amidst his pain. Levi exhaled, yielding to the solace of your touch, his body relaxing against the bed.

"How are you feeling?" you asked softly. Your gaze locked onto his - a feeling of comfort completely embracing his body as you looked into each others eyes.

"Better now" he whispered as you squeezed his hand softly.

"I'd like to help you back to bed every night, if you'll have me," you murmured. Levi's lips parted in surprise, his pride stung by the offer. Accustomed to self-sufficiency, he bristled at the notion of needing assistance. It had been mortifying enough for him to even accept Gabi and Falco's constant help. Yet, as he gazed into your eyes, he recognized your genuine concern, your willingness to care for him.

With a silent nod, he guided your hand to his chest, intertwining your fingers. Levi, a man hardened by loss, grappled with his vulnerability, torn between the fear of abandonment and the longing for connection.

"Only on one condition," he whispered, his gaze never leaving yours. You leaned in, your expression curious.

"Will you stay with me every night?" Levi asked, his voice tinged with uncertainty.

Your eyes widened, a flicker of surprise dancing within them. Yet, as you drew closer, a tender smile graced your lips, your innocence a beacon of reassurance.

"I will," you whispered. You slowly moved forward, your other hand reaching his jaw as you kissed him gently. Amidst the pain he was enduring, your lips felt heavenly against his. What a wonderful distraction you were in that instant, he thought to himself.

In that moment, Levi dared to hope, to believe that along the pain and uncertainty, there existed the promise of solace, of connection. And as your lips met his, he surrendered to the possibility of healing, of love blooming amidst the wreckage of his past. But god, did it terrify him.