In The Eyes of A Stranger [Levi Ackerman x Reader]

Chapter 3: Beneath the Frost

You stepped into the bustling mess hall, the aroma of freshly baked bread and steaming porridge enveloping you. The morning sunlight steamed through the windows, causing a warm glow over the row of wooden tables and the chatter of your fellow soldiers. You had begun to find solace in these daily rituals, the familiar rhythms of military life.

But today, felt different, today you had a mission.

You dished out a steaming hot bowl of porridge for yourself, and your gaze drifted across the room. You were searching for the one and only, Captain Levi Ackerman. Rumors swirled around him like a vortex, whispers of his unwavering dedication to the Scout Regiment and his unmatched combat prowess. Some called him "Humanity's Strongest Soldier." Others whispered, "Clean Freak" or "The Captain Who Doesn't Smile." You saw him from afar, his piercing gaze and chiseled features etched in your memory.

Now, you just needed to muster the courage to approach him.

Taking a deep breath, you scanned the room once more. Levi sat alone, as usual, his eyes scanning the room with an air of quiet intensity. His expression was unreadable, but you felt a shiver run down your spine. 

You grabbed your tray and made your way toward him, your heart pounding with each step. What if he dismissed me? What if he didn't care? You thought to yourself. The doubts crept in, but you knew you had to try.

As you approached him, his gaze flicked up, his eyes narrowing slightly. Your palms grew sweaty, but you forced a calm smile onto your face. He lifted a brow in cool, callous acknowledgment.

"What could you possibly want?" His voice was cold, no trace of emotion in it as he boredly sits his cup down beside him.

There was a pang in your heart, your fear coming true following his dismissal. Even so, your father's words rang in your head about changing your fate. 

"Good morning, Captain... I just wanted to introduce myself." You said, holding your breath in anticipation.

He gave you a once over, his eyes lingering on you for a moment. After a few seconds of silence, he responded.

"I don't need to know your name cadet. Now, is there anything else you need?"

His tone was sharp and dismissive. It was clear he didn't have much interest in talking to you, and was ready to end the conversation as quickly as possible. You felt a surge of indignation and embarrassment as the Captain's dismissive words cut through the air. His tone was sharp and condescending. 

You took a deep breath, trying to calm yourself down, but your voice still trembled slightly as you spoke. 

"N-No... My apologies, sir." You said with sad eyes and a disappointed look.

He noticed the look on your face and let out a sigh. Despite his cold demeanor, he felt a pang of guilt for his harshness. He leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest.

"Don't look so disappointed, cadet. It's not like I'm going to bite your head off or anything."

He paused for a moment, before continuing. 

"Just... try not to bother me unless it's something important, alright?"

It seemed you would take any gesture of kindness coming from him. Your eyes shimmered and you gave a small smile. 

"Yes sir, I won't let you down!" You gave him a small salute, and found your way to a table with Eren, Mikasa and Armin.

He watched you walk away, his eyes lingering on your retreating figure for a moment. Despite his initial coldness, he was secretly impressed by your confidence to approach him. He had noticed the spark in your eyes when you spoke to him, and he couldn't help but feel a small flicker of admiration.

"Good," he muttered to himself, before turning his attention back to his tea.