A Second Chance (Levi x Reader)

Chapter 19

Despite the fact that it was Monday, the museum Armin chose was quite busy.

The line to get in was long, filled with several couples and friend groups you did not recognize. While everyone appeared excited, smiling and hugging one another as they waited, you couldn't help but mentally sulk. People were here to enjoy their winter break and make long-lasting memories. You only had to pretend to do the same.

As soon as you and Armin stepped inside the building, he was quick to catch on to your body language. Your hands were resting inside your jacket pockets in an attempt to keep warm, and not once did you raise your eyes from the floor while the two of you were waiting.

"Do you want to keep your ticket stub?"

The two of you found refuge in a vacant section of the building. Armin held out a small paper, looking down at you with his brows raised while he waited for an answer.

"Thank you-"

You extended an arm out towards him, but his palm tightened in response. The paper at hand crumbled into a ball, and Armin only chuckled.

"It's probably best you don't keep any evidence, now that I think about it," the blond continued. He then proceeded to stuff the paper into his pocket before reaching out towards your hand. "So, shall we?"

Looking down at Armin's hand, you could feel his grip pull you closer towards his side. The warmth that radiated from his body was a stark contrast to the cold atmosphere of the room. Despite your lack of enthusiasm, you managed to raise a smile in response.

Shuffling farther down the room, Armin led you to the first row of portraits. "This one is nice," you cleared your throat. "The pastels give a very lighthearted feeling."

Armin's grip on your hand tightened. You waited for a response, for any kind of approval, but found nothing. Taking a small breath, you mustered up the courage to raise your gaze towards him.

"What do you think it means, Armin?" you continued.

You tilted your head as you spoke, wanting to appear as curious as you sounded. As you leaned closer towards Armin's side, the deeper your breast plunged into the side of his arm.

"I..." Armin paused. You could feel his body stiffen for a moment as he spoke, but a sharp breath quickly eased him. His eyes then went back towards the painting; while he scanned the contents displayed on the wall, it became apparent that he was putting much consideration into his answer.

"The pastels make it appear blurry," he started. Turning towards you, a small smile formed on his lips. "If it was intentional, then the painting is supposed to replicate a dream."

You pursed your lips as you listened to his words, turning back to face the wall once more. You allowed your temple to rest against his shoulder, and his grip once again tightened.

"And what if it wasn't intentional?"

You could feel the vibration of a laugh from where your head sat. While you were curious to see what kind of face he was making at that moment, you didn't dare to move an inch. And you weren't quite sure as to why.

"Well, then I guess it's just shitty art."

The soft hum of chatter seemingly stopped at that moment. Furrowing your brows, you lifted your head off of Armin, examining the area behind you.

A young couple standing a few feet away were side-eyeing your direction. A group of four had also frozen in place, clearly stifling a laugh while they attempted to avoid your gaze.