Shadows of Command-Erwin Smith

chapter-six

"Are you going to have some actual food—or do you plan on running on caffeine and sheer will?" Reign's voice chirped as she knocked on the door of Erwin's office and peaked her head in.

Erwin looked up from his work. "Is it that obvious?" he smiled.

"I brought you breakfast." Reign said as she entered the office and closed the door behind her with her foot.

Erwin looked momentarily surprised by the unexpected gesture. He offered a warm smile as he took in the sight of the breakfast Reign had prepared. "You really don't have to go through all this trouble."

"As your assistant, I think my duties include keeping the Commander alive," Reign replied, shaking her head with a playful grin. "If I didn't bring you breakfast, you'd probably forget to eat or sleep altogether. It's like you're on autopilot sometimes."

Erwin chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "I suppose I've been a bit preoccupied lately. You're probably right—I do lose track of time."

Reign shook her head. "Well, don't let yourself turn into a ghost. Here, eat up. I have to get to training."

As she left, Erwin's gaze lingered on her retreating figure. There was a sense of appreciation that accompanied the warmth he felt. He turned back to the breakfast, savoring the food and the quiet comfort that Reign's presence had brought to his otherwise hectic morning.

Later that day, Reign completed her training with the usual intensity. The physical exertion left her feeling invigorated but also keenly aware of her growing fatigue. After a quick lunch with her friends, she made her way back to Erwin's office in the evening, ready to tackle the remaining work.

When she arrived, she found the workload lighter than expected. Erwin looked up from his desk, a look of relief crossing his face.

"It seems we're ahead of schedule today," he remarked. "How about we take a short break? It's been a while since we had a moment to unwind."

Reign raised an eyebrow. "A break? We've been swamped with work."

"Not as much as I anticipated," Erwin replied with a casual shrug. "Besides, it wouldn't hurt to take a brief respite."

Reign hesitated but then nodded. "If you say so. I'll just pin it on you if anyone catches us slacking."

Erwin chuckled at her comments and reached into a drawer and pulled out a bottle of whiskey. "How about a drink? It's not often I get to enjoy a break like this."

Reign eyed the bottle but shook her head. "I'll pass on the alcohol. You go ahead, though."

Erwin poured a small amount into a glass, his expression thoughtful. "Are you sure? Sometimes a drink can help clear the mind."

"Alcohol isn't for me," Reign replied with a smile. "Although, do you mind if I smoke in here?"

Erwin glanced up from his glass, raising an eyebrow. "In my office?" he responded, amusement flickering in his eyes.

Reign shrugged, still grinning. "You get to drink, I get to smoke. Seems fair, don't you think?"

Erwin paused, a hint of a smile forming. "It's not the same, Reign. A glass of whiskey doesn't leave the room smelling like a bonfire."

She tapped the cigarette lightly against her palm. "I'll open a window."

Erwin leaned back in his chair, the smile growing. "Alright. But only if you don't spread ash all over. I'd rather not have Levi breathing down my neck over this."