Sticks and Stones | Levi×Eren

Chapter 7

It's frustrating how waiting for something makes it take ten times longer to happen. My brain was in a trance from the moment I woke up and I went through the motions of the day not caring about anything. I went to each class and remained a mannequin in the corner with a pencil doing nothing of any relevance. Homework was assigned, but even now I forget what it was.

Lunch came and went slowly and painfully. I spent the time alone doodling in my notes, and I am now realizing I have no clue how to draw a soccer ball. Who the hell made them so complicated? It's a stupid thing so ask, but there's nothing wrong with a plain ball with no complicated design. Regardless, doodling was enough to get me through the lunch period and my final class.

The last bell meant freedom for a number of different reasons. It meant fresh air for one thing, and I definitely wasn't alone in that thought. I was joined by several other students, being mostly girls, who also had the intentions of sticking around to watch the soccer game. They all waiting eagerly by the parking lot to spot the incoming team while I took a seat next to the school to be a safe distance away from the field. I don't fit in with anyone so it's the best I can do.

I chose to fiddle with my phone despite not having any incoming texts or calls. I did tell Mikasa I would be watching the game to which she replied with several exclamation marks. I'm glad I could make her happy simply by sitting past the sidelines.

The rival team showed up in the usual tacky yellow bus with their burgundy jerseys labeled with bright white letters and the emblem of a horse. The Scouts. It's not exactly an intimidating animal, but then again some schools are unfortunate enough to have a bumble bee. At least horses are fast.

Our green jerseys appear on the field shortly after and I spot Levi first out of the crowd. He's being surrounded by both male and female players and Mikasa being one of them. I'm jealous of Mikasa for a number of reasons and now I have this to add to the list. We lock eyes for a brief moment and it's enough for her to jog over and tug me closer to the field. I was perfectly content sitting over by the school, however it seems that's not good enough.

My new seat is situated next to the team bench just out of earshot of whatever game plans they have. Levi acknowledges me with a nod and I blush. Hopefully he didn't notice. I curl my knees up to my chest and hug them; remaining in that position for most of the match.

My eyes don't leave the game. There isn't a moment of rest between plays and the ball is constantly moving from team to team. Mikasa sits with me when she's on her breaks, so it's nice to not be alone for the most part. She's surprised I came out in the first place obviously not knowing it was Levi's idea. I'm a little shocked I showed up as well knowing I'm breaking the rules and staying out past my permitted time. I think it's worth it.

The footwork in this sport is enticing in it's own way. All the players are talented enough to get shots on goal and keep the game moving. With Levi being the main forward, I get a little antsy whenever he has the chance to score. My heart swells in my chest watching him slip past each defender and cooperating with Connie to earn an assist in the first goal.

The whole area erupts into cheering and I find myself clapping without realizing my hands are moving in the first place. I watch both of them jog off the field for a break and I'm hopeful that Levi will sit with me, but that dream dies when he's surrounded by his female teammates overly congratulating him on the first goal of the season.

Halftime is the same story so nothing deserves to be said. I use my phone as a distraction and I need to remind myself to call my mom soon to see how everything is going. At least I know she's safe and isn't dealing with any of the bullshit at home. If she's happy then its enough for me. Another set of cheering is enough to let me know we've scored again. I'm proud to see it's Mikasa this time earning a pat on the back and high fives from her colleagues.