Retrieving Footsteps [Levi x Reader]

Unspoken Boundaries

Over the next few days, the atmosphere in the lab shifted slightly. Floch seemed to have made it his mission to find out more about me, often asking my coworkers if I was seeing anyone. His questions ranged from casual inquiries to more pointed ones, each time weaving himself deeper into my thoughts.

One afternoon, as I was reviewing some calculations for the crystal project, I overheard Floch chatting with one of the engineers, Jean. "So, do you think (Y/N) is seeing anyone?" Floch asked, leaning casually against the wall. "She's really talented and kind of cute. I think I might ask her out."

Jean, ever the blunt one, shrugged. "I think she's been spending a lot of time with Levi. You might want to watch your back."

Floch laughed, brushing it off. "Levi? That little guy? What does he have that I don't?"

"More than you realize, apparently," Jean replied, his tone laced with amusement. "He's always around her, and I wouldn't be surprised if she's into him."

Floch scoffed, clearly not taking Jean seriously. "Please, I'm sure I could win her over if I just had the chance."

At that moment, Levi happened to be passing by, and he caught the tail end of their conversation. His expression darkened slightly, the tension in his posture instantly noticeable. He stepped closer, arms crossed, and his voice was low but sharp as he interjected, "You think so highly of yourself, don't you, Floch?"

Floch straightened up, an air of confidence still clinging to him. "Just being realistic. I'm not trying to compete or anything, but I think (Y/N) deserves to be treated right, and I can do that."

Levi's gaze narrowed. "She doesn't need your 'treatment,' and I'd advise you to back off. You don't know her like I do."

Floch shrugged, unfazed. "Is that right? Well, I guess we'll see, won't we?"

Levi shot him a glare before turning away, clearly irritated. The moment he walked past me, I could feel the weight of the unspoken tension between us, a mix of protectiveness and something deeper that simmered just below the surface.

Later that day, as I was preparing to leave for the evening, Levi approached me at my workstation. "Can we talk?" he asked, his tone serious.

"Sure," I replied, looking up at him, curiosity piqued.

We stepped into a quieter area of the lab, away from prying ears. "I overheard Floch talking about you," he said, his brow furrowing slightly. "He seems to think he can just swoop in and make a play for you."

I sighed, feeling a rush of frustration mixed with concern. "I know he's been asking around, but I didn't think it would bother you this much."

"It does," Levi admitted, his expression softer now. "I don't like the idea of someone like him thinking he can get close to you when he doesn't know anything about what you've been through."

"I appreciate that, Levi, but I can handle myself," I said, crossing my arms defensively. "I can make my own choices."

"I know you can," he replied, his tone gentle but firm. "But it's not just about that. It's about how people like him can take advantage of situations, especially when they see someone like you—talented, kind, and strong. You deserve better than someone who's only interested because it's a game to him."

I looked into his eyes, feeling a wave of gratitude wash over me. "You're right. I just didn't expect this. I thought Floch was just being friendly."

"Friendly?" Levi scoffed. "Trust me, it's more than that. Just keep your guard up. You're too valuable to let someone like him get in your head."

Before I could respond, I noticed a hint of something else in Levi's gaze—a vulnerability that hinted at his feelings. "And what about you?" I asked, my heart racing. "Do you think you can handle having me around?"

He paused, his eyes locking onto mine with an intensity that made my breath hitch. "I can handle a lot, (Y/N). You're not just 'around' for me. You matter. Just don't forget that."

The weight of his words hung between us, thick with unspoken emotions. I felt my cheeks warm as I absorbed what he had said, my heart racing with the implications. Just then, Hange entered the room, oblivious to the charged atmosphere.

"Hey, what are you two doing in here? Planning a coup?" Hange joked, her playful grin brightening the space. "You know we can't have any rebellions until after the war, right?"

I chuckled, grateful for the distraction, while Levi's expression shifted back to his usual stoic demeanor. "Just discussing work," he said, his voice cool.

"Uh-huh, sure. Just remember to keep your personal lives separate from business, okay?" Hange teased, winking at me. "Can't have any office romances when the world is ending!"

"Thanks for the advice, Hange," I replied, a hint of laughter in my voice.

As Hange continued talking, I could feel Levi's eyes on me, the connection between us lingering in the air. No matter what happened with Floch, one thing was clear: the dynamic between Levi and me was shifting, and I wasn't sure where it would lead.