Retrieving Footsteps [Levi x Reader]

Comfort after the Storm

After everything that's happened, I can only describe my life as a real-life opera—a mix of drama and sacrifice that I somehow had to endure. But honestly, despite everything, I wouldn't change it for the world.

After confiding in Levi, I told him everything: Kenny's abuse, the higher-ups' constant pressure, and even the Yeager company's harassment. Levi listened carefully, his expression darkening as he absorbed every detail. And once he took matters into his own hands, let's just say I haven't heard a peep from anyone since.

On top of that, Levi put me on restricted duty until I'm fully recovered. "That means no overworking, no all-nighters, and I don't want to catch you sneaking back into the lab," he'd said firmly, giving me a look that dared me to argue.

The silver lining? With fewer responsibilities, I get to spend more time with him.

The days that followed felt like a breath of fresh air. With the weight of expectations lifted, I found myself enjoying the little moments with Levi. We spent more time together in the lab, him overseeing my progress while I worked on the crystal weapon designs. I found comfort in his presence, his focused demeanor bringing a sense of calm that I desperately needed.

One afternoon, while I was sketching a new blueprint, Levi stood over my shoulder, studying my work. "You've improved since the last time," he commented, his tone slightly softer than usual. "But you're still not taking enough breaks."

I glanced up, meeting his gaze. "I'm trying to find the right balance. I want to make sure everything is perfect when I get back to full duty."

Levi leaned against the table, crossing his arms. "Perfection isn't the goal. The goal is to survive. You can't help anyone if you're running on empty."

His words resonated with me, and I nodded, feeling a warm flush at his concern. "I know. I'm just... still getting used to all of this. It feels different now."

"Different how?" he asked, his eyes narrowing slightly as he studied me.

I hesitated, unsure how to articulate what I was feeling. "I guess I've always seen you as a leader, someone strong and unyielding. But now... I see how much you care. It's comforting."

Levi's expression softened for a moment, and he straightened up, clearing his throat. "Well, don't get used to it," he said, the corner of his mouth twitching slightly in what I could only describe as a smirk. "I have a reputation to maintain."

I chuckled, feeling the tension ease. "Your secret's safe with me, then."

As days turned into weeks, our conversations deepened. We shared more than just work; we began to open up about our pasts, our fears, and our aspirations. I learned about Levi's upbringing, the struggles he faced, and how he'd fought to protect those he cared about. In turn, I found myself sharing my own story, my journey, and the pressures that had weighed on me for so long.

One evening, while we were taking a break, I found us sitting on the roof of the building, looking out over the horizon. The sun was setting, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over me.

"It's beautiful," I said softly, glancing at Levi.

He nodded, but his gaze remained fixed on the horizon. "It is. But beauty can be fleeting. You need to be ready for what comes next."

I understood the weight behind his words, the ever-present danger we faced. "But isn't it nice to take a moment and appreciate what we have?" I asked. "Even if it's just for a little while?"

Levi finally turned to me, a flicker of something in his eyes that I couldn't quite read. "You're right. It is nice."

I felt a flutter in my chest, a connection that felt stronger than mere camaraderie. We lingered in comfortable silence, and I couldn't help but feel like we were building something together, something that transcended our roles as leader and subordinate.

As the stars began to twinkle in the sky, I found myself leaning slightly closer to him, my heart racing. "Thank you, Levi. For everything."

He glanced at me, a soft yet serious expression on his face. "Just focus on getting better. That's all I need from you right now."

I smiled, feeling warmth spread through me at his words. "I promise I will."