Retrieving Footsteps [Levi x Reader]

Pressure of Perfection

People who were nearby could hear the screaming and yelling, but since everyone was busy, no one realized the chaos happening in the lab. Kenny was once again berating me for a small mistake I made in the calculations for the crystal weapon. In a fit of frustration, he threw the papers onto the floor and kicked a chair across the room.

I stared at him, heart racing, and tried to gather my thoughts. "Mr. Kenny, I'm sorry, but I promise it won't happen again. I've just been tired recently and wasn't focusing." My voice trembled slightly, a mix of embarrassment and anxiety creeping in.

Kenny's eyes narrowed, his expression a blend of irritation and concern. "Tired? That's no excuse! You're working on something critical, (Y/N). This isn't a game; lives are at stake!" His tone was harsh, but beneath the anger, I sensed a hint of worry.

"I understand," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady. "I'll double-check my calculations moving forward. I just—"

"Just what?" Kenny interrupted, throwing his hands up in exasperation. "You think I don't know what pressure feels like? You need to step it up, or I'll have to report this to the higher-ups."

The mention of the higher-ups sent a chill down my spine. I bit my lip, fighting back tears. I didn't want to appear weak in front of him, but the weight of the past few weeks had been crushing.

"I won't let you down, I promise," I insisted, hoping to convey my determination. "I'll do whatever it takes to fix this."

Kenny took a deep breath, his shoulders relaxing slightly. "You're talented, (Y/N), but you need to start believing in yourself. This is bigger than you realize. If you can't handle the pressure, maybe you should think about stepping back."

His words stung, but they also lit a fire within me. I couldn't back down now. I wouldn't let my fatigue dictate my performance. "I can handle it," I said, my voice firm. "I'm not going to give up on this project, and I'm not going to let anyone down."

Kenny regarded me for a moment, then sighed, his expression softening. "Fine. Just remember, I'm pushing you for a reason. I know what you're capable of. But you need to take care of yourself, too."

I nodded, feeling a mix of gratitude and frustration. "I will, Mr. Kenny. I promise."

As he walked away, I let out a shaky breath, still feeling the adrenaline from our confrontation. I needed to regroup and refocus. I glanced at the scattered papers on the floor, determination flooding my veins.

Taking a deep breath, I knelt to pick up the papers and began to sort through them. As I worked, my mind raced with calculations and adjustments I needed to make. I couldn't afford any more mistakes.

Just then, the door swung open, and Eren stepped in, concern etched on his face. "Hey, (Y/N), are you alright? I heard yelling. Is everything okay?"

I forced a smile, not wanting to burden him with my troubles. "Yeah, just a minor setback with the calculations. Nothing I can't handle," I replied, keeping my voice light.

Eren frowned, clearly not convinced. "You sure? Because you've been looking a bit worn out lately."

"I'm fine, really," I insisted, trying to brush off his concern. "Just a little tired, that's all. I'll be back to normal in no time."

He studied me for a moment, then sighed. "Okay, but if you need anything—like help or just someone to talk to—don't hesitate to ask. We're all in this together, right?"

His words warmed my heart. "Thanks, Eren. I appreciate it. I really do."

He gave me a reassuring smile before leaving, and I turned back to my work, more determined than ever to prove myself. I couldn't let Kenny down. I wouldn't let myself down. The project was too important, and I was more than capable of rising to the challenge.