In The Eyes of A Stranger [Levi Ackerman x Reader]

Chapter 12: Fractured Trust

The next day dawned, casting a somber mood over the city. The trial loomed, weight heavily on your minds.

As you prepared for the trial, nervous thoughts swirled. What would happen to Eren? Would the Scouts be able to protect him?

You arrived at the courtroom, the tension palpable. Eren, chained and confused, looked at you all with pleading eyes.

Premier Zachary began the trial, his voice stern. "Alright, shall we begin?"

He explains the situation to Eren, that his decision determines whether he lives or dies, and which regiment will take custody of him.

The military police gave their case, proposing Eren is executed, disagreements erupting. 

Erwin stepped forward.

"As the Commander of the Survey Corps, I, Erwin Smith propose the following; let Eren join our ranks, reinstate him as a full member of the Scouts, and we will utilize his Titan ability to retake Wall Maria. That is all."

You glanced at Levi, his expression unreadable.

The Order of the Walls representatives scoffed.

"He's a monster!" one shouted. "He tried to kill cadet Mikasa Ackerman in Titan form!"

Mikasa's eyes narrowed.

The room erupted into chaos, arguments flying. Eren's face contorted in frustration.

"Just shut up!" Eren screamed. "Just put your faith in me!"

Levi's expression darkened as he stepped up. With swift, brutal kicks, he beat Eren down. Blood spilled, teeth flew.

You and Armin winced, horrified. Mikasa lunged forward, but the two of you held her back.

"Mikasa wait!" Armin shouted, seeming to comprehend Levi's intentions.

Levi's eyes flashed with determination. The Premier watched, calculating.

In the end, Premier Zachary declared that he accepts the Scout Regiments offer, stating that Levi has demonstrated his ability to handle Eren.

As the trial concluded, you felt a wave of pain wash over you. Your head throbbed, your injuries aching.

Levi approached, concern etched on his face.

"Are you okay?" he asked, reaching out to touch your head.

You flinched, scared. Levi's eyes softened.

"I'm sorry," he whispered. "I didn't mean to scare you."

You took a deep breath. "It's okay," you said. "I've just never seen you like that... and Eren is my friend."

Levi's gaze locked onto yours.

"It was a ploy," he explained. "To save Eren, get him handed over to the Scouts."

Relief washed over you, and you smiled, but still weary. 

"I understand... Sorry for being frightened."

"You don't have to apologize," Levi said, his voice gentle. "I understand."

You nodded, still reeling from the trial's events.

Levi's gaze lingered, searching for any hidden fears. 

As you conversed, Levi noticed the faintest glimmer of affection in your eyes.

His heart skipped a beat, realizing your conflicted feelings were developing as much as his.

A mix of emotions swirled within him. Joy, concern, and fear. Fear for your safety.

If you got close to him, the risks would multiply. HIs enemies would target you.

The weight of his responsibilities crushed him.

For your own good, he knew he had to distance himself.

Even if it pained him.

Even if he didn't want to.

Levi's thoughts raced:

"What if she gets hurt because of me? I've seen what happens to those I care about."

"Farlan, Isabel..."

"I won't let that happen to her. But how can I push her away?"

"Shes already so close."

As these thoughts tormented him, Levi's expression subtly shifted.

A mask of detachment slipped into place.

"You should rest," he said, his voice measured. "Your injuries aren't fully healed."

You nodded, sensing the change in his demeanor.

"Okay," you replied, your voice laced with disappointment.

Levi's heart ached. He wanted to reach out, reassure you.

But he couldn't. For your own protection.

"I'll assign someone to keep watch, so you're not alone."

You smiled weakly. "Thank you, Captain."

Levi turned to leave, his chest heavy. As he departed, he glanced back.

Your eyes met, a fleeting connection.

Levi's resolve wavered. He knew he had to maintain distance.

Not knowing how difficult it would be.