Retrieving Footsteps [Levi x Reader]

Breaking Point and Breakthrough

With the tension in the air slowly dissipating, I returned to my workstation, pushing thoughts of Floch and his incessant questions aside. I took a deep breath, reminding myself that I needed to focus on the task at hand: finalizing the last touches on the crystal weapon project.

As I settled back into my work, the familiar rhythm of calculations and blueprints calmed my racing heart. The lab buzzed with activity as my teammates worked diligently, their determination palpable. Eren and Mikasa were testing the latest iterations of the weapon, while Armin meticulously documented each result. I could feel the camaraderie surrounding me, reinforcing my belief that we were close to achieving something groundbreaking.

"Hey, (Y/N), how's it going?" Armin asked, peering over my shoulder at my sketches.

"Almost there," I replied, pointing to a section of the blueprint. "Just need to make a few adjustments to the energy output calculations. If we tweak this part here, it should enhance the efficiency of the weapon during combat."

"Sounds good," he said, nodding appreciatively. "I can't wait to see it in action."

Just then, Levi walked past, giving me a brief nod of acknowledgment. I felt a flutter in my chest at his quiet support. "How's it looking?" he asked, stopping by my desk.

"Almost ready for the final tests," I said, forcing myself to meet his gaze. "I just need to finalize these numbers."

He leaned over slightly to examine my work, his presence both comforting and intimidating. "You've put a lot of effort into this. Don't rush it. We need it to be perfect."

I nodded, appreciating his understanding. "Thanks, Levi. I just want to make sure we're prepared for anything."

"Good mindset," he replied, a hint of a smile on his lips. "Keep it up."

With that, he moved on, and I couldn't help but feel a surge of motivation. I threw myself back into my calculations, focusing on the final adjustments needed to ensure everything was flawless. The clock ticked away, but I was in the zone, losing track of time as I became engrossed in my work.

After a couple of hours, I took a moment to stretch, glancing around the lab. Eren was arguing with Mikasa over the best strategy for using the weapon, while Sasha and Connie were in the corner discussing the next test run's logistics. The atmosphere felt electric, and I could sense that we were on the brink of something monumental.

I glanced at the clock again; it was almost time for our next meeting with the higher-ups. The anticipation was building, and I wanted to ensure everything was perfect. Just as I was about to dive back into my work, I felt a tap on my shoulder.

I turned to see Hange grinning at me. "Hey, we're all counting on you to wow them. No pressure, right?" she joked, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

I chuckled nervously. "No pressure at all. Just my entire career hanging in the balance," I replied, trying to keep my tone light despite the weight of the moment.

Hange tilted her head, a thoughtful look crossing her face. "You're going to knock it out of the park, (Y/N). Just remember, you're not alone in this. We're a team."

Her words struck a chord, reminding me of the support system I had built around me. With renewed determination, I returned to my blueprints and made the final adjustments needed for the demonstration.

As the hour approached, I gathered the materials, making sure everything was in order. I felt a mix of excitement and nerves, but I knew we had prepared for this moment.

"Ready?" Levi asked, appearing at my side, his expression serious but his presence steadying.

"Yeah, I'm ready," I said, taking a deep breath. "Let's show them what we can do."