Birdie (Levi x OC)

fifty-eight

"So they'll be allowed to stay, huh," I murmured to Levi as we exited the capital building. My grandfather, Pixis, walked close behind us.

"It seems that way. They made grand promises," Pixis stated, his voice ringing with reluctant approval. I tilted my head to look at him. "It's hard to say no to an offer that means our survival. Rebuilding Paradis with modern technology; catching us up with the rest of the world."

"Not to mention their information," Levi hissed, his voice cutting through the noise of the street. "The fact that Marley is in an all-out war with the East? That's vital. We need to know where the global focus is, and how much time it buys us."

I hummed thoughtfully, my initial relief warring with the grim realities of our new alliances. I risked a glance at Levi, whose expression was grim. He looked utterly burdened by all that had occurred the last few days.

"Lighten up," I said, shoving his shoulder lightly. "They brought more than just threats and technology. I heard there were crates and crates of booze and food we've never seen." I laughed, the sound airy and light, trying to push past the gloom. I looked back at my grandfather. "Bet you're happy about that."

"Oh, hush," he replied, though a slight smile touched his lips.

"Pixis." Levi turned abruptly, stopping in his tracks to face my grandfather. "Can I speak with you for a moment. Privately."

My grandfather raised his eyebrows in surprise at the abrupt formality. "Of course, Captain. Shall we go for a walk?"

Levi nodded, glancing at me. "Sit tight." He motioned toward a stone bench nearby. "We won't be long."

I knew exactly what Levi was doing, and the thought made my chest tighten with a dizzy mix of panic and exhilaration. He was going to talk to my grandfather about marrying me.

"Of course," I smiled, giving his hand a quick squeeze before turning and making my way to the bench. I sat down with a quiet groan.

I rubbed immediately at my aching leg. The stress of the long day and the intense meeting caused the nerves to riot; the slightest touch sent a seizure-like jolt through the muscle. I winced, pinching my eyes closed as the wave of pain passed.

"You alright, Birdie?" I heard Hange ask, her hand gently landing on my shoulder.

"Fine, fine," I answered, cracking an eye open to look at her. She sat down beside me, leaning back with a relieved sigh, the heavy weight of her office momentarily lifted.

"These long days are just hard on it," I admitted, shifting slightly on the cold stone, relaxing under her touch. "These Marleyans have me on edge. It's not good for my nerves."

She hummed in agreement, slipping an arm around my shoulder and giving me a gentle squeeze of comfort.

We sat in silence for a few moments, both of us staring out at the bustling capital streets. People were shopping, bartering, fighting, and laughing; entirely uncaring about the existential storm brewing outside the walls.

I let out a slow, steady sigh, glancing up at my Commander. Her thick brown hair was tied neatly back, her glasses perched high, and the eyepatch covering her missing eye was strapped carefully in place.

God, I loved her. The sister I never had. The friend I truly needed.

"Hange," I whispered, turning my head fully to her.

"What is it, Birdie?" she replied, her eye meeting mine.

"Levi and I are going to get married," I breathed, the words escaping me like a confession of treason.