Birdie (Levi x OC)

fifty-nine

As the carriage pulled to a halt, my grandfather and Levi dismounted first; both of them helping me out of the stuffy coach.

"I'm going to head back to the garrison, Sweet Bird," he said softly as my feet touched the ground, an intense and loving look in his eyes. "A fine start to a fine life. You look beautiful."

"Thanks, Grandpa," I said, wrapping my arms around his neck and planting a kiss on his cheek. "I love you."

He smiled, releasing me, and turned to Levi. "Congratulations, Captain. I trust you know what this means now."

"Yes, Sir," Levi replied, taking my grandfather's hand and shaking it firmly.

"You take care of her now, son. You take care of her like your life is forfeit," Pixis continued, his voice uncharacteristically serious as he placed a hand on Levi's shoulder. "She's your responsibility. Your priority."

"Always has been, Sir," Levi nodded, his gaze unwavering.

My cheeks glowed at the unwanted attention. "Oh stop," I said, playfully shoving Levi's arm and turning back to my Grandpa. "Don't go all soft on me now."

He laughed, a rich, deep sound, and turned back to the carriage with a wink.

"Well," Hange sighed dramatically as we watched the retreating carriage. "Shall we see what those brats cooked up?"

"Yes!" I said, grinning and turning to Levi who looked woefully unimpressed. "Cheer up, husband. Indulge me, just for today."

Levi deadpanned, muttering under his breath, "That's all I do."

"Hey," I laughed, linking my arm through his. "I heard that."

"Come on now, both of you!" Hange said, leading us quickly toward the mess hall.

The mess hall was quiet, but I could hear the rustling and hushed chattering of Levi's squad as we approached. One of the long wood tables had been meticulously set, and upon each plate was a generous portion of meat, mash potatoes, and fresh vegetables; a meal far better than standard rations.

I raised my brows at the kids who were waiting anxiously: Jean, Mikasa, Connie, Sasha, Armin, and Eren.

As I approached, Connie and Sasha broke ranks simultaneously and rushed me. They wrapped me in a joint, fierce hug, their energy almost knocking me off my feet.

"Birdie!" Sasha cried, her grip tightening. "I can't believe you actually married the Captain. He's so intimidating." She wailed against my chest, her voice breaking. "A-and he's so much older!"

Connie instantly yelped, pulling his head back, and slapped Sasha lightly on the arm. "Sasha! He can hear you! Have a filter!"

I laughed, patting their backs, feeling my own throat tighten with emotion. "I can't tell if you're happy or not."

"I am happy!" Sasha insisted, pulling back slightly, her tear-streaked face momentarily stopping its wavering. "Just... you know. It's the Captain. He's so scary..."

A dry voice cut in from the doorway. "Wipe your tears, Braus. My wife is not a tissue."

As they stepped away, Armin approached. He gave me a quieter, but equally earnest embrace. "I'm so happy, Birdie. You're a good pair. A really good pair," he whispered sincerely.

"Thank you, Armin," I smiled, feeling the genuine warmth of his friendship.

I looked back to the table, gesturing to the food. "How did you lot manage this?" I asked, completely surprised by the bounty.

Jean laughed, slinging an arm around my shoulder as I approached a seat. "We have our ways, Birdie! Imagine our surprise when Hange told us that you and the Captain were slinking off to get married. Without us!"