Retrieving Footsteps [Levi x Reader]

Unwanted Distractions

The following days were a blur of training and preparations. The atmosphere remained charged as everyone worked diligently to get ready for the upcoming project milestones. However, the tension surrounding Floch's interest in me lingered, occasionally bubbling to the surface.

One afternoon, I found myself reviewing data in the lab when Floch popped his head in, a wide grin plastered across his face. "Hey, (Y/N), I was thinking maybe we could go over some of the new strategies together? You know, to help me out?"

I glanced up, trying to mask my exasperation. "Floch, we've gone over this. You need to focus on your own training first. We're a team, and everyone needs to hold their weight."

"Right, right. But I thought it would be nice to get some extra help from you," he persisted, his enthusiasm undeterred. "Besides, it would give us a chance to bond more. I mean, you're the best, and I want to learn from the best."

I felt my patience wearing thin. "Floch, we can't just ignore the fact that you've been asking everyone about my personal life. It's kind of... uncomfortable."

"Uncomfortable?" he echoed, his expression shifting to confusion. "I just wanted to know if there's a chance for us, you know? I thought you'd want to know that I'm interested."

Before I could respond, Levi's voice cut through the air like a blade. "Floch. Enough." He appeared at the entrance to the lab, arms crossed, his gaze sharp as he directed it at the intern. "(Y/N) doesn't need distractions right now. Focus on your training, not your crush."

Floch's face fell, and he opened his mouth to protest, but Levi's intense glare silenced him. "Get back to work. You're not here to chase after her."

I could feel my heart racing, a mixture of embarrassment and relief flooding through me. I turned to Levi, gratitude shining in my eyes. "Thanks, Levi."

He nodded, his expression softening. "Just do your best. That's what's important."

Once Floch left, the tension in the air began to dissipate. I let out a deep breath, grateful for Levi's intervention. "I didn't want to hurt his feelings, but it's getting out of hand."

"You shouldn't have to apologize for someone else's actions," Levi replied firmly. "You're here to work, not deal with someone's unwanted attention."

As we resumed our tasks, I couldn't shake the feeling of gratitude toward Levi. There was something comforting in the way he always had my back, even in awkward situations.

Days turned into weeks, and while Floch seemed to take a step back, I noticed he was still trying to impress me through his work. He threw himself into every project, often seeking my input or offering to help with tasks, which only made things more complicated.

One evening, after a long day of presentations, I stepped outside for some fresh air. The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the training grounds. I leaned against the railing, taking a moment to collect my thoughts.

Just then, Levi stepped out, his silhouette framed against the fading light. "You look deep in thought," he remarked, leaning beside me. "Everything okay?"

I sighed, feeling the weight of everything on my shoulders. "It's just... the pressure of the upcoming project, Floch's persistence, and I'm still trying to process everything. It feels like a lot."

"Let it out," he encouraged, his voice low and steady. "You don't have to carry this alone."

I turned to him, our eyes locking. "You make it easy to talk to you. I just don't want to burden you with my problems."

He shook his head, his expression serious. "You're not a burden, (Y/N). You're part of this team. We all have each other's backs, especially in tough times."