Brewed to Perfection: Quiet Tea | LeviHan | Levi Ackerman x Hange Zoe | FalBi

Chapter 28: The Quiet Ceremony

The sun was dipping below the horizon, painting the sky in rich strokes of amber and violet. The ocean mirrored the hues, its gentle waves rolling against the shore with a calming rhythm. A soft breeze carried the faint scent of salt and wildflowers, rustling the fabric of their attire.

The tea shop had been closed early that day-a rare occurrence. A handwritten sign hung on the door: Closed for the evening. Gabi had been curious, but Levi and Hange were careful not to arouse suspicion. Onyankopon and Yelena had helped them slip away quietly, the pair doing their best to ensure the moment stayed between the few who knew.

Levi stood near the edge of the water, his posture as composed as ever. He wore a crisp white coat over a tailored shirt, his signature cravat tied with exacting precision. His dark slacks and polished boots completed the look, understated yet impeccable.

A few steps away, Hange adjusted the cuffs of her own white coat, paired with practical trousers and her well-worn boots. She looked like herself, yet there was a brightness in her expression that seemed magnified by the golden glow of the evening. Her hair was only slightly more tamed than usual, and her goggles rested on her head, as if she couldn't part with them even for this.

"You clean up nice, Levi," Hange teased, glancing at him with a lopsided grin. "Almost didn't recognize you without your usual scowl."

"Tch. You're the one wearing boots to this," Levi shot back, though his tone lacked its usual bite.

"These boots have been through hell with me," Hange said, tapping one against the sand. "No way I'm ditching them for something uncomfortable."

Levi snorted but said nothing more. His gaze lingered on her for a moment longer before turning to the small setup behind them. Onyankopon and Yelena stood a few paces back, their expressions warm but unobtrusive. Onyankopon held a simple bouquet of wildflowers, and Yelena had brought a small lantern, its light casting a soft glow over the scene.

The officiant-a kind-faced local Onyankopon had arranged-stood ready, her notebook tucked neatly under one arm. She offered the couple a gentle smile. "Shall we begin?"

Hange glanced at Levi, raising an eyebrow. "Ready, Captain?"

Levi exhaled, his fingers adjusting his cravat one last time. "Let's get this over with."

The officiant began with a few quiet words, her voice blending harmoniously with the sound of the waves. She spoke of commitment, partnership, and finding strength in each other-a sentiment that resonated deeply with both of them. Neither Hange nor Levi was one for grand speeches, and the officiant's simple approach was exactly what they'd wanted.

When it came time for the vows, Hange went first. She didn't prepare anything, of course. That wasn't her style.

"Levi," she began, her voice softer than usual. "I've spent most of my life chasing things-answers, Titans, whatever crazy idea came into my head. But you've always been there, steady, unshakable. And somehow, you've made me realize that I don't need to chase anymore. Wherever I go, I know I'll always come back to you."

Her grin wavered slightly as emotion crept into her voice, but she held his gaze firmly, her hands clasped behind her back.

Levi took a step closer, his sharp eyes never leaving hers. When he spoke, his voice was calm, steady-just like him.

"Hange," he said, "This isn't my thing. You know that. But you've been the one constant in a world that never stops breaking apart. You're loud, messy, and half the time, you're a pain in my ass." He paused, his tone softening just slightly. "But I can't imagine it without you."