Retrieving Footsteps [Levi x Reader]

Crossing the Line

Over the next few days, Floch's curiosity about me only seemed to grow. He was constantly asking my coworkers about my personal life, and it was becoming increasingly annoying. I would overhear him in the break room chatting with Sasha and Connie, leaning in close, as if sharing some deep secret.

"So, is (Y/N) seeing anyone?" he asked, an eager glint in his eye. "I heard she's really talented. You guys must know something I don't."

Sasha, ever the friendly one, replied with a shrug. "She's been working really hard on the crystal project. I don't know much about her love life, though."

"That's not what I heard," Floch pressed, his tone insistent. "She spends a lot of time with Levi, right? They must be close."

Connie chuckled, shaking his head. "Yeah, but good luck getting anything out of Levi. He doesn't talk about his feelings."

As I walked by, pretending not to eavesdrop, I felt a mix of flattery and irritation. I couldn't believe Floch was so determined to find out about me. Didn't he have anything better to do?

The next day, it continued. I was at my workstation, trying to concentrate on my calculations, when Floch strolled over again, a wide grin on his face. "Hey, (Y/N), I was just talking to Hange. She mentioned that you're super passionate about your work. What else do you enjoy doing?"

I forced a smile, trying to remain polite. "I'm really busy right now, Floch. Maybe we can talk later?"

"Busy with what?" he pressed, leaning against my desk. "I just want to get to know you better."

The frustration bubbled inside me. "Floch, you've asked nearly everyone in the company about me. Can't you take a hint? I'm not looking for anything right now."

He seemed taken aback, but quickly recovered. "Come on, I'm just being friendly! Besides, it's not like I'm the only one interested."

I rolled my eyes, trying to contain my irritation. "I appreciate your interest, but I need to focus on my work. This project is important."

As I turned back to my calculations, I noticed Levi passing by. He caught my eye, and for a moment, the tension eased. But as Floch continued to linger, clearly undeterred, I could feel the annoyance creeping back.

Later, I heard him ask Mikasa during lunch, "So, is there any chance (Y/N) is interested in me? She's pretty great, right?"

I couldn't take it anymore. I stood up, feeling my face flush with frustration. "Floch! Can you just stop asking everyone about me? I'm not interested!"

The break room fell silent, and I felt all eyes on us. Floch looked a bit surprised but then laughed it off. "Whoa, no need to get defensive. I was just curious!"

Levi, who had been standing nearby, stepped in, his voice calm but firm. "Floch, give her space. She's not a trophy to be won."

I glanced at Levi, feeling a swell of gratitude for his support. Floch looked slightly chastened, but I knew he wouldn't give up easily.

As I returned to my desk, I couldn't shake the feeling of being under constant scrutiny. I had enough to deal with concerning the project, and I didn't need Floch complicating things further. It was becoming clear that I needed to establish some boundaries—and fast.

Every time I caught Floch's eye, I felt the weight of his attention, and it only fueled my irritation. I wasn't just a target of his interest; I was a dedicated member of the team, focused on a mission far more significant than dating games. As I dug deeper into my work, I knew I had to stay strong and not let him get to me.

As the days went on, I resolved to focus solely on the project and not let anyone, especially Floch, distract me from my goals. I was determined to rise above it all, but I couldn't help but wonder how long I could keep that up while navigating the complex feelings I had for Levi.