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witchyspell · 5 years ago

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Fear of Losing You

pairing: Jimmy Darling x gender neutral!reader

summary/request: Jimmy darling x male reader: dandy and reader both meet at a show and hit it off...spending more time with dandy ment less with jimmy...jimmy being jealous decides to get your attention 💖 requested by @kingreidx

word count: 2.5k+

warnings: swearing, alcohol abuse (very drunk jimmy), angst and fluff ofc, dandy’s god complex

A/N: i’m sorry this took so long! i’ve just been overwhelmed lately and suffering from, you guessed it, writer’s block. this made me want to watch freak show for the third time, i love that season so much...anyway, i hope you enjoy! :)

IMPORTANT NOTE: this request originally asked for a male!reader’s perspective. however, more than half way through, i realized i hadn’t mentioned any specific pronouns to designate the reader and that there were no details that implied their gender. i decided to change it to a gender neutral perspective so anyone (including a male reader) could read it. i hope you understand!

[full credit to the owner of this gif!]

Eight months ago, you met the most caring and thoughtful person, Jimmy Darling. Never in your entire life had you ever encountered such a selfless and considerate soul. His laughter was unbelievably contagious and his charm so strong. His sole presence lit up any room instantly.

You first saw him when you attended Fräulein Elsa’s Cabinet of Curiosities or in other words, the town’s freak show. The idea of spending actual money to watch people perform and be treated like circus animals made you sick. They were still human no matter how they looked or what deformities they possessed, but your parents thought otherwise. They insisted it would be amusing and a ‘nice outing’.

You went anyway, the idea of defying your parents way too risky. Little did you know, that that evening, you’d meet the person who would soon become the light of your life.

From the moment he stepped on stage, you were immediately captivated. His chestnut curls drooped down over his forehead. And his eyes, despite being dark, shone under the stage lights. You didn’t notice anything unusual about him until he removed his hands from behind his back.

“These pinchers dont hold me back,” he exclaimed cheerfully. “Watch me juggle!”

The ‘pinchers’ in question resembled exactly that. They were quite large and his index and middle finger fused together as well as his ring and little finger.

The crowd oohed and aahed but you remained mostly unfazed. You studied his face a little longer, sensing something was off. Behind that joyful, cheery facade he looked unhappy, almost embarrassed.

His gaze caught yours as he wrapped up his performance, offering a smile to the audience (which you now knew wasn’t genuine) and showing off his abnormal hands one last time. Later that night, you introduced yourself to Jimmy Darling and entered his atypical, curious world.

✾ ✾ ✾

Sitting on one of the squeaky wooden chairs, you watched and absentmindedly listened as Bette and Dot practiced their singing for the upcoming show. Rehearsals had eventually become tedious and repetitive, since you never participated in the performances.

Your job was to sell tickets, and sell tickets you did. You also welcomed the spectators as they entered the show’s grounds, plastering on the biggest grin you could possibly muster.

You loved spending time and bonding with everyone but it was getting old. So old, you’d sometimes miss the show and wait in the makeup tent until you had to escort the audience out.

A quick peck to your cheek pulled you out of your thoughts and you blinked, your eyes readjusting to the intense show lights. You looked up and saw Jimmy watching you intently, waiting for you to react to his presence. He looked concerned when you didn’t respond and sat down next to you, wrapping his arms around your frame.

“Everythin’ alright, sweetheart?” Jimmy asked, cocking his head to the side.

You didn’t want to worry him so you simply nodded. What would you even tell him? That you were unhappy? That was false. You just craved something exciting...new.

“I’m fine, Jimmy. Really, I was just lost in thought that’s all,” you reassured him.

“Will you come to the show tonight, then?” Jimmy asked, pouting at you. He knew you couldn’t possibly refuse him, especially when he made that adorable face. You paused, feigning considering his offer before assuring him you were only teasing. “If you insist.”

He opened his mouth, most likely to make a witty comment, but you shut him up. You brushed your thumb over his cheek and leaned in, ever so softly kissing his pouty lips. He pulled you in even closer and you rested your head on his shoulder, watching the lights flicker as Dot’s voice echoed through the tent’s walls.

✾ ✾ ✾

Great amounts of people were rapidly flooding in, creating a large crowd. By the looks of it, tonight was going to be very busy and you were certainly not complaining. Lots of people meant lots of tips, which meant lots of publicity and propaganda for the show.

After gathering everyone and selling an impressive amount of tickets, it was nearly show time. You rushed to the makeup tent and made sure everyone was ready to perform, the perfectionist side of you definitely spilling out a little.

Elsa was the opening act, her voice never ceasing to amaze you. As you entered the tent, you spotted Jimmy pacing back in forth, seemingly nervous.

You walked over to him. “Jimmy, love...Is everything okay?” Concern laced your voice and you furrowed your eyebrows. He wasn’t a stranger to stage fright, on the contrary, it was a regular occurrence for him but it was rarely that bad.

“There’s- God, there’s so many people out there, Y/N! I don’t know if I can do it,” he shakily spoke, looking pale as a ghost.

“You’ve done this countless times, Jimmy! It’s just a few more people than usual, you can do it,” you soothed, your words only mildly reassuring him.

He shook his head and closed his eyes, the anxiety becoming overbearing. “No, it’s not the same-“

“I know it isn’t but there is absolutely nothing to worry about, okay? You always do great, tonight won’t be any different,” you engulfed him in a tight embrace and spoke in his ear. “Now, go show ‘em what you got.”

He smiled at you, whispered a quick ‘I love you’ and darted out of the tent. You followed him, confirmed every single performer was all set to go and sat in the audience. The lights dimmed, plunging the room in complete darkness and the curtains were drawn to reveal Elsa in beautiful makeup and a just as beautiful dress. Her graceful voice deeply moved you, feeling almost transported by it.

You subtly glanced around towards the end of her performance, trying to discern the look on people’s faces. Most of them looked disappointed, but you weren’t surprised. They were here for the ‘freaks’, not the real talent after all.

As your eyes scanned the crowd, a particular someone caught your eye.

He appeared to be in his mid twenties and was the textbook definition of ‘tall, dark and handsome’. He had slicked back seemingly black hair, perfectly parted down the middle. His baby blue irises, although adverted towards the stage, were still visible and bright. He wore an elegant, unique striped suit that probably cost ten times more than the most expensive item you owned.

Next to him sat an older, strawberry blonde woman who you assumed was his mother. It was clear they were significantly wealthy from their luxurious clothing.

Your attention was still fixated on the young man. Something about him was intriguing, but you couldn’t quite put your finger on it. Elsa had long left the stage by now and it was time for the others to shine. He looked mesmerized by everyone on stage. The fascination in his eyes was blatantly obvious, like a child in a candy shop.

He must have felt someone staring because his gaze met yours rather abruptly. You quickly spun your head back around, caught off guard. Slightly embarrassed, you shyly peered at him from the corner of your eye to make sure he was no longer paying attention to you.

Much to your surprise, he was now staring at you, an unreadable expression plastered on his face. He didn’t smile or nod, just stared. Jimmy appeared on stage just as you were beginning to get slightly anxious. You beamed at him, mouthing a silent ‘you got this’ and he flashed you his signature alluring grin in return.

The stranger still rumbled through your mind as you watched your boyfriend juggle four, five...six bowling pins. As soon as the show ended, you were about to make your way backstage to congratulate Jimmy, when a foreign male voice stopped you in your tracks.

“Excuse me?”

You hesitantly turned around and found yourself face to face with no other than the dapper young man. “Yes?” you answered skeptically.

“I noticed you speaking with one of the freaks earlier. Do you, perhaps, happen to work here?” he asked. You cringed at his choice of words but knowing correcting him wouldn’t get you anywhere, you ignored it.

“Uh, yes I do.” The awkward tension in the air was undeniably present and you slightly stuttered.

“Fascinating! You aren’t one of them I presume. You seem perfectly attractive...” he started. “Tell me, how is it living with freaks?” Your face, once again, twisted in disgust at his poor wording but you stayed calm. Jimmy on the other hand would have been fuming. The man before you had a posh way of speaking, his voice matching his wealth. It was drastically different from what you heard on a day to day basis.

“I didn’t even introduce myself! How foolish of me! Forgive me, my name is Dandy Mott,” he exclaimed, disregarding his previous question and holding his hand out.

You hesitantly took it. “Y/N. Y/N Y/L/N.” Dandy’s grip was strong as you shook his hand. He gave you a heartfelt, closed mouthed smile and bid you goodbye.

“I’ll certainly be looking forward to seeing you again, Y/N.”

✾ ✾ ✾

Ever since your first encounter with Dandy, he attended every single show with no exception. You had grown to enjoy his company even though he was strange at times. Both of you would often go on picnics and walks through town. You, of course, made sure he understood it was purely platonic. You might have been spending less time with Jimmy, but you still remained faithful. He respected your boundaries and didn’t make any advances.

Dandy was different and you liked that about him. You needed something different. Before him, every day felt the exact same and it was painfully exhausting.

Everything was going smoothly until one night, Dandy shared his beliefs about him being ‘a supreme being’. He had hinted at it before, but you brushed it off, thinking it was nothing more than an eccentric pleasantry. You were both standing in front of the freak show’s gates and its frightening entrance when he unveiled that side of himself.

“I am a god!” he had cried out. You were at a loss for words, not believing he truly felt that way at first.

“Is this some kind of joke?” you asked.

“No, this isn’t a joke! This is what I was destined to be. Don’t you get it?” Dandy was becoming more and more agitated by the second, stepping dangerously closer to you. “I would have preferred to tell you this somewhere more...formal. But here we are.”

“Dandy-”

“I thought you of all people would understand, Y/N. Why do you always have to make things so painfully complicated?” he sighed, sounding exasperated.

“Please Dandy...” Your voice trembled. “Leave, I just n-need you to leave.”

He shook his head and rolled his eyes, sighing dramatically once again. “You really are insufferable, aren’t you?” Right as he was reaching for you arm, Eve appeared.

“Y/N, there you are! There’s- uh, you see Jimmy-“ she fumbled over her words and you took it as an opportunity to flee the scene. You trusted Eve would take care of Dandy and send him home.

You entered the show’s campus and were immediately stunned by what you saw. A small, familiar crowd of people gathered around Jimmy as he flailed his arms around, nearly dropping and smashing the whiskey bottle in his right hand. His shirt was stained with what appeared to be sweat and vomit, from drinking all night. You immediately rushed over to him.

“Oh, look who finally showed up! Have fun with that prick? You manage to remove that stick up his ass yet?” he slurred, sarcastically tipping his hat at you.

“Are you insane? What the fuck are you doing?” You whisper-yelled, grabbing his arm and dragging him over to his caravan.

“Come on, Y/N! You’re no fun! I was just explaining to them how you ditched me for some rich jerk,” Jimmy blabbered on, nearly tripping over himself.

He dragged his feet in the dirt, ruining his already worn out shoes and dropped the bottle to the ground, completely shattering it. He muttered a simple ‘oops’, chuckling to himself. You practically shoved him inside the caravan and he stumbled onto the bed.

“Get up, you’re filthy,” you demanded, the stench of his clothes unbearable.

“So, this is what I have to do for you to notice me? Get shit-faced?” He sat up, a now hurt expression on his face.

“You know that’s not true,” you settled beside him and he raised his arms, a whiff of sweat hitting your nose instantly. You peeled off the dirty garment from his skin and threw it on the floor, at the foot of the bed. You gently tilted his chin up, forcing him to look at you. His breath reeked of booze but you ignored it.

“I thought I lost you,” Jimmy whispered, tears pricked at his eyes and threatened to fall down.

“I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to distance myself from you, I just-“ you paused, contemplating your words. “I can’t live like this anymore, Jimmy. Not here. And I know it sounds selfish because it hasn’t even been a year, but it’s the truth. I just can’t.” Your voice cracked as a tight knot formed in your throat, and you desperately searched Jimmy’s face for anything that could indicate how he was feeling.

“Come here.”

You leaped into his arms as your tears wet his bare chest. Sobs racked your body as you finally let go of everything you kept bottled in and hidden deep within yourself. Jimmy’s calloused fingers soothingly rubbed circles on the exposed skin of your back while you cried, before slowly pulling away. You peered up at him with glassy eyes, your lower lip trembling.

“I’m so sorry for everything, Jimmy. Dandy he-“ you shakily started but Jimmy was quick to shush you.

“Shh...it’s okay, baby. I forgive you,” he warmly smiled. His eyes suddenly lit up, an imaginary lightbulb shining over his head. “Now, what do you say we run away together?”

Your eyes nearly popped out of their sockets at his outrageous proposition. So many questions ran through your mind but you chose the obvious one.

“Are you serious?” you asked, utterly baffled. Jimmy burst in a fit of laughter, his adoration for you clearer than ever.

“Of course I am! All I want is a shot at a normal life...with you.” He grinned from ear to ear, his beautiful face radiating with joy causing your heart to flutter.

“Then yes, without a doubt,” you said, tearing up once more. “I love you. ”

“And I love you,” Jimmy murmured, softly pressing his lips to the top of your head and laying down, lulling you both to sleep.

#ahs #american horror story #ahs imagine #ahs one shot #jimmy darling request #jimmy darling x reader #jimmy darling imagine #jimmy darling one shot #jimmy darling

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sneyrwrites · 5 years ago

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|3| |Ace| Levi Ackerman x Reader

✘ Ace: Who Knew?✘

Inspiration Song: Who Knew?- P!nk.

Trigger Warning! Read with precaussion.

Six years had passed since my first fight.

I had got used to walking through the gloomy streets, founding comfort in the night's quiet. Once I got inside the basement, I would miss it. Even hours after, once I was back in bed, trying to rest my aching body I could still feel the ruckus of the spectators.

I had to meet up with Annton at Rose's gate, per usual. It still was a mystery to me why he kept leaving notes under my front door, giving me instructions, as if I didn't knew the drift.

During the last six years, every first and last Saturday of the month Annton and I both traveled to the inside of Wall Sina, as spectators, or as a fighter, going against whoever was on my way, collecting the prize money. It wasn't like I was undefeated, but I was a solid fighter, winning a lot more of fights than the ones I had lost, and it fascinated Annton.

In the time i had spent taking part into The Basement's secret world, Annton Hale, Ivo and I got fairly close, to the point where they came to visit on their days off, claiming that they had nothing better to do, but I knew they just liked to spend time with me, even if we had a significant age gap between us.

After four victories I was able to pay Annton the debt, but even though I was free to leave The Basement, I found myself wishing to go back and stand in the circle one more time. I couldn't deny I was a good wrestler, and I loved the adrenaline rush that cursed through my body each time my guard went up. Now I could understand why the guys were part of it. It was illegal, and the nobles that assisted were a bunch of pigs with an insatiable thirst for blood. The staff was kind and fun to be around with, and the fighters were friends with each other. It was almost like a home, and we were a family. Some of us had a reputation behind them and some of us were a mystery, like myself, but we all took advantage of a negative aspect of the society, trying to get a better way of living. We shared laughs, and we just wanted to have a little fun.

My father never stopped working, and his routine stayed the same throughout the years, and that made things easy for me. I was still the perfect golden child into his eyes. He was convinced the extra money came from a part-time job I took in the marketplace, helping a tailor.

I knew how to saw in the same way a horse knew how to waltz.

Still in my thoughts, I made it to the cart where Annton was waiting for me as always.

"Took your time kid" He said, straightening up his posture. He engulfed me in a hug, greeting me " Come on, get in. I have a surprise for you"

"Hey Jimmy, I greeted the driver. Stepping into one of the wooden and got into the same old cart. It was the same as always. The only difference was a little box in the middle of the floor.

I sat into the apple crates and we started to move. The wind was wild that night, but a black hood I had on protected me from it. With stiff fingers I left my bag on the floor and grabbed the small box. It wasn't heavy, and a beautiful red paper was wrapped around it, a simple black cord holding it close.

"What's this?" I was intrigued. Annton shrugged.

"It's from the three of us. Six years today brat." A slight smile appeared on his lips " How we bore with you this long without kicking your butt, I don't know"

"Like you could, none of you could throw me one single time." I remarked, reminding him how the three of them insisted on play fighting with me.

"We let you win, Ace." Annton Flexed his arms "Look at this deadly weapons, if I get one of these around your neck you're dead"

I bursted out laughing. Annton lowered his arms and stared at me.

"Do you remember the first time you fought?" He said, his voice soft. "You almost fainted on the circle… I'll never forget how you looked when the gong sounded."

" Like a champion?" I joked, winking at him.

"No, about to throw up." He chuckled. I was really tempted to throw something at him, but there was nothing on hand. " But seriously Ace, I never met anyone who belonged more into the circle like you do. It's your place in the world… you look happy when you fight. You're free in there, and yes, you were frightened the first few times, but the potential was always there " He finished, his eyes focused on the stars above us.

"Come on, don't start crying on me, or I will cry too." I said, only half joking, the tears prickling my eyes.

"Just open the goddamn box."

Careful, trying to keep the paper intact, I unwrapped the package. When I opened it and saw the content, my throat closed up. I was speechless.

Hale, Annton and Ivo had matching rings since they graduated from the academy. It was a sign of friendship that went beyond time and the division the choosed, the ring was a promise to be together on spirit even though the distance. Or at least that's what Hale told me when I asked.

My eyes were burning, and I tried so hard not to cry. I let out a shaky breath and took my very own ring. I examined it in the moonlight, letting it reflect into the small stone resting on the intricate metal.

"You were already a part of the family, but this was missing." Careful not to fall, Annton moved to sit by my side.

"Thank you" I said, my mind devoid of other words. The only thing I knew was that a sense of belonging rushed over me. They were the few persons, besides my dad, that i had spent time with, and knowing they appreciated me in the same way as I did settled down the insecurities I didn't know I had until then.

Once the ring was on my finger a single teardrop fell. I'm Sure Annton saw it, but he didn't mention it. He circled me with his arm and pulled me close. I rested my head on his shoulder. Neither of us said a thing.

Sometime in the night I had drifted off in a dreamless slumber, because Annton shook me awake to get down off the cart. I waved Jimmy goodbye and made my way over to the wall, meanwhile Annton settle the meeting point for the way back.

I rested my weight on the wall, trying not to fall over because of the sleep numbing my senses. I leaned my head back, observing the top of the wall and I whistled, just like Ivo had taught me a few years back. His response was immediate and Hale descended on the lift.

No matter how many years went by, she was still the same, not even an expression line on her features. The lift barely had made it to the floor when Hale threw herself into my arms, hugging me close.

"Ace! I missed you so much" Her loud voice made my ear hurt, but I was happy to see her too.

I circled her with my arms and held her close for a while

"All right Ace, let me hug my girlfriend please." Annton's arm pulled me away, and he took my place. He swooped Hale off of her feet, kissing her hard. I smiled, and looked up, straight at Ivo's head, that was leaning over the wall's edge.

"Hey Ivo! Can you lift me up and leave the two love birds behind?!" I asked, shouting so he could hear me from the distance. His thumb went up in the air, letting me know that he agreed with me. Hale and Ann separated enough to speak, still holding each other.

"Hold Up… Did you give her the gift?" She asked, looking at me with an excited grin on her face. I played dumb.

"Gift? what gift?" I asked, as Hale send an angry look towards Annton

"What!? You didn't do it? We agreed you would do it on the way here!" Annton opened his mouth, trying to defend himself, but he couldn't emit one single word, Hale's fast tongue shutting out his voice. You could barely understand her annoyed rant.

"Oh, wait… Do you mean this one?" I lifted my hand in the air, displaying the ring. I laughed when she stopped mid-word, Annton sighing with relief.

"Did you liked it?" She asked, insecurity flashing behind her eyes. " We weren't sure if it was good enough, I know you can afford like a thousand of this with the money you make on the circle and i don't know… I guess… Never mind." Annton grasped her shoulder, trying to comfort her, but I spoke before he could begin.

"The ring itself it's not important… "Her expression fell even more " only thing I care about is what it means. In the last six years you guys gifted me your friendship and support, and I need nothing else to be happy." I hugged them both as if my life depended on it. " I adore you, guys."

"What about me!?" Ivo's outraged scream

scream came from above.

"Of course i adore you too, you big baby!" I replied, the laugh lightening up my voice.

I pretended not to see Hale's tears as I turned around, trying to hide my own.

"Alright, enough with the sappy things, we're going to be late, and we have another surprise for you on this sixth anniversary." Said Annton, dissipating the emotive mood.

The three of us got into the lift. Once I was up the wall I jumped into Ivo's arms, he caught me without effort.

Once the four of us were together, I lowered my gaze to our hands, observing how the four identical rings shone in the moonlight. And right there in that moment, on top of Sina, with those three law breakers soldiers I felt like home.

The way to the basement was the same as ever, with the typical dumb jokes from Ivo, Annton trying to hide the amused smile lifting his mouth, and the warmth of Hale's laugh .

When we got there, I greeted Mick and opened the curtains, the guys right behind me.

The room was packed, as usual, and the heat from the bodies pressed against each other was annoying. But I wouldn't change a thing about it.

The four of us walked to my cubicle, and we stayed there, doing nothing. My fight was almost the last one for the night, so we had a lot of time to spend.

Annton and Hale collapsed on the couch I bought specially for the cubicle, while Ivo and i jus sat at the old worn chairs.

One hour passed by, and we just talked about nonsense, enjoying our time together until I remembered Annton's second surprise.

"Hey Ann, What's the second surprise?" My shyness had gone away, but my curiosity was intact, no matter how much I had mature.

"Oh, right!" Ivo straighten up on the chair.

"For the good old times and because this is a special day. We accomplished two things…" Hale said, pausing dramatically, building up the expectation.

"The first thing is that we convinced Dean to go against you today" My eyes went wide when Ivo's words registered. Dean rarely took part in the fights, and he never agreed to go against me again. It was a special occasion for sure.

"And the best part is, Lord Reiss is coming tonight, and he is interested in being your sponsor. What do you think? Pretty good right? You can kiss the second hand furniture goodbye." If I was surprised by Dean's agreement, I had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming with the last surprise.

When a Lord sponsored you, it meant that he would pay for every single one of your expenses, food, clothes, housing, whatever you wanted to buy, as long as you train to compete and win the fights. The nobles got back their investment with the money they betted on you.

"Finally! My efforts are being recognized!" I shouted, leaning my head back. The guys laughed. “The first thing I'm going to do is take the three of you to the most expensive tavern inside Sina, What do you guys say?"

They laughed harder, and I was happy.

The gong sounded, and it meant it was my turn to fight.

Groaning, I got up from the chair, trying to crack my back, with no results. I gave Ivo puppy eyes, silently begging him. He hugged me from behind and pressed, lifting me from the ground. A satisfying series of pops relieving the stiffness in my spine.

Hitch was already presenting the contestants, Dean by his side.

"…And she need no introduction! For the sixth year in a row today, give a warm welcome to Ace!" The crowd exploded, shouting as i went through it, a confident smile on my face. I looked around me as i passed by, and my eyes found Lord Reiss on the stands, his hat casting a shadow on his eyes. When he noticed my stare the corner of his mouth went up.

I turned my attention to Dean and damn, he had grown up. We were no longer on the same height, now he had a few inches on me, not a lot, but still, I had to tilt my head back a little to look at his eyes. His hair was the same as always, just like his missing shirt. But shit, when my eyes traveled down his body, his chiseled abs igniting a spark of desire in my lower stomach. Puberty did him good. With twenty-one years he was in good shape, with a cute face and a powerful jaw, a shadow of stubble on his cheeks.

"You like what you see girl?" He asked as he noticed my lingering gaze. I smiled at him, trying to hide the blush that was creeping up my neck.

"Not in particular. I was trying to see if you had the mark from the time I broke your nose" His smile faded and the crowd went wild with my comment, the "ooh's" they let out made me laugh.

"Buuuurn!" Ivo's voice got to me from somewhere in the multitude.

Winking at Dean, I extended my arms to collied fist and Hitched started the fight.

Dean had gotten better, but he still relayed on strength alone, so with a few submission holds and locks, and two good punches to the face, he was on the floor.

Hitched lifted my arm and per usual bodies surrounded me.

With one last glance at Deans dizzy state I made my way to the girl that had my money.

She smiled at me as she handed me the bag of money. I thanked her and turned around, about to search for the guys, but a board chest blocked my way, the logo of the military police on my eye level. Next to the officer was another man, looking rather bored, his eyes on the circle. I opened my mouth to ask them to move when someone talked.

"Wonderful fight, miss Ace" A man's voice complimented me, the guard took a step to the side and right in front of me was the renowned Lord Reiss.

"Thank you so much, Lord Reiss. I'm glad I could fulfill your expectations, " Maybe if i sweetened his ear he would give me some extra money on the sponsorship.

"If you allow me, I would like to have a few words with you in private. Do you mind going to your backroom?" I Hesitated. An uneasy feeling clenched my gut. My backroom was a sanctuary to me, only Hale, Ivo and Ann were welcome there. Impatience flashed in his eyes, so i tried not to overthink it. With a tight smile, I gestured for them to follow me.

“Of course This way, please. " I walked ahead of them, Lord Reiss and his guards following behind.

As I walked to the back of the room, my eyes searched for Annton, or Ivo, or Hale, or anybody. Call me paranoid, but the whole situation was making me uncomfortable.

My eyes Found Annton's from across the room, pleadingly. He understood immediately and made his way over, only to be intercepted by Mick and Hitch. They said something to him, and the severity of his expression told me it was important. With a hand gesture he asked me to wait for a bit, I nodded discreetly and kept walking as if nothing was wrong.

I hold the curtain open, letting Lord Reiss trough, waiting for his guards to do the same, but they turned around and stood by the entrance.

"I know it looks a little… excessive, but the times I've been attacked out of nowhere would surprise you." His voice was gentle, but it did nothing to soothe my nerves.

He took a sit on my couch and signaled me to do the same. Clenching my teeth, I tried to stay polite and sat on the farthest end, putting as much distance between us as I could.

"All right, I know you must be wondering what i want." He said, subtly getting closer. "I have a deal for you, miss Ace"

His piercing blue eyes traveled my body up and down. Leaning a little closer, he continued. Annton was nowhere to be found, and I wasn't sure I liked this situation.

"What do you think of a sponsorship?" Reiss stretched his hand, getting a grip on the tip of my braid, taking it to his eye level, index finger stroking it lightly.

"I would be honoured, and I'm glad you enjoy my fighting style" I lied through my teeth, trying to hide the wave of nausea that washed over me.

"Yes, truth be told, i find your style… exciting." He said, i ignore the innuendo in his words, playing dumb. " Observe you on the circle is one of my favorite activities." Lord Reiss got even closer, invading my personal space. My body went rigid as he threw his arms on the back of the couch, his skin brushing my neck in the process..

This man was creeping me out. Shit, he liked them young if he was trying to hook up with me. His face was getting closer to mine and I couldn't stand it anymore. In a second i was on my feet, getting away from him, trying to get my message across. I was not interested in that kind of business. He wasn't fazed, and he smiled, entertained by my behaviour.

"As I was saying, I will cover all of your expenses on the condition that you will be fully engaged on your training and fighting career. Also, I might need your assistance with other things." My eyes went wide, and something shined on his. " If one of my guys gets sick or something of that nature I might need your help as a bodyguard." Lord Reiss got up from the couch and walked towards me.

"That would be exceptional Lord Reiss. But please understand that I'm not familiarized with the whole sponsorship proce…" The words died on my lips when he caged me against the wall. My heart was beating in my ears, and the panic was screaming at me, demanding that I ran away, searching for Ivo. My eyes shifted to the curtains, and I noticed the shadows of the two bodyguards blocking the exit.

"Allow me to show you then" Reiss moth tried to catch mine, but I dodge him, going under his arms. His forehead collided against the wall.

"I think you should leave, sir. I really appreciate the offer, but I'm afraid I can't accept your conditions." I took a step back, pointing at the door. My chest felt tight because of the nerves. Flashes of the drunk man in the alley invaded me. But i was no longer a little girl, I would let no one try to take advantage of me. I fidgeted with my ring, waiting for him to go out the door, but when he passed by he grabbed my forearm, and he started dragging me to the couch. He was short, but he didn't lack strength.

"You better let me go, I already said I'm not interested in anything you have to offer" I struggled against his hold. I didn't want to fight him. He was one of the nobles who donated a lot of money to The Basement. If I did, I could damage the others.

"Nonsense" He refused to let me go, my breathing was getting more and more shallow with every passing second, and the room was getting smaller. I tried to pull my arm away, but his grip was strong.

Grabbing his wrist, I twisted his arm behind his back, pushing him against the wall. A pained whimper came out of him.

"I'm really sorry Lord Reiss, but you wouldn't listen." I was about to let him go when he shouted.

"Kenny!" The guards came inside like two trained dogs.

"Oh my, what do we have here? You better let him go, brat." Kenny got closer, i recognized his face vaguely, he was often on the crowd. He was a grown up man, a small beard covered his chin, and a broad-brimmed hat covered his hair.

Kenny and the other military police came closer. I let go Lord Reiss's arm and took a few steps back, lifting my arms in a truce sign.

"I don't want problems. I ask you to leave." My eyes trained on the guards, and then on Reiss.

He nodded to Kenny, holding his wrist with a grimace that was in between anger and pain. Kenny nodded back, and with an inhuman speed grabbed my arms, keeping me still. The other guard went to the door, keeping watch.

"Ya' better stay put, little runt." I tried to wiggle my way out, but i wasn't getting far.

Reiss's hand found my face, and I tried to move away from him, a dirty feeling lingering where he touched me. He caressed my cheek before slapping it hard. The impact swung my face to the side, the stinging feeling letting me know I was going to have his hand imprinted on me.

"Now you'll do as I say, I'm done being nice." He said to me, his cold blue stare piercing my soul, chilling me to the core. There was nothing behind his eyes. They were empty. "Kenny, to the couch"

The old man's body pushed me forward, but I digged my heels, trying to avoid it at all costs. I tried to break free, attempting to throw Kenny off, but almost as if he had read my mind he grabbed my braid, pulling my head back violently. The pain shot through my scalp, and a groan came out of my mouth.

I couldn't think straight. I was struggling to get out of Kenny's hold, twisting and turning as he dragged me to the couch, where Reiss was unbuttoning his dress shirt. Bile crawled up my throat, my eyes filling with tears.

I was supposed to be able to fight for myself, to defend on my own. But this three bastards changed the rules, tilting the scale in their favor.

My foot found the edge of the couch, and i pushed away from it, desperate to avoid being thrown in there. Kenny tussling against me, I would not make it easy for them. Impatient Lord Reiss took my ankle, trying to speed up the process. When I felt his fingers on me, I lifted my other foot and I kicked his forehead, a small cut opening on it. He collapsed on the couch, disoriented.

Kenny threw me to the side, kicking my stomach once I was on the floor. Towering over my curled up body, he spitted on me as I fought, trying to get the air into my lungs.

"I don't understand why you Runts have to make it so difficult." He got down, arm outstretch to grab me by the hair once again, but before he could close his fist on it a body collided against him.

Rolling to my side, I saw the unconscious Military police, sprawled on the floor. With a lot of difficulty I sat up, grabbing my side, trying to soothe the pain.

Annton stormed into the room, trying to protect me. Fist were flying everywhere, Kenny trying to dodge, but Annton's blows affected none the less. With an annoyed 'Tch' Kenny reached into his pocket.

Time seemed to slow down. Annton retreated to strike again, but a knife was in Kenny's hand out of nowhere. My blood ran cold, Annton's surprised expression forever printed on my mind. His eyes wide and mouth open as the cold metal pierced his torso. Almost as if he ran out of strength, Annton fell on a pile to the floor.

I'm not sure what happened next. But with a shattered heart, I got up. Kenny's back was to me, and I took us both down, circling him with my arms. I didn't care anymore. The knife flew out of his hand, I barely registered the sound of it.

My hands found Kenny's face, my naked knuckles aching with the hit. In a heartbeat i started beating him, one after the other my hands found something to strike, trying to erase the last hour, trying to fix the mess. The pain that soon turned to rage blinded me. I didn't even notice the tears running down my face. Something broke inside of me the moment Annton fell to the ground.

Kenny's weak laugh made its way into my ears, and the rage multiplied. He turned his face to the side, spitting a tooth out, and as his gaze found mine. I saw the amusement in his eyes and my movements halted for a second. On a rampage I got up, and furiously I kicked him across the face. The momentum from the blow turned his body sideways. I lifted my leg, about to repeat it, but Annton's weak voice called my name.

"Ace…" I ran and threw my body on the floor next to him. There was so much blood. I picked him up carefully, cradling him in my arms.

A sob escaped my mouth, and tremors shook my body. Annton looked at me with a tender smile. My tears were free falling, dampening his shirt.

"Please tell Hale…" He paused, a wince appearing on his face

"Shh, don't try to talk… I'll get some help. There's got to be a doctor somewhere around, just please, please don't close your eyes." I tried to get up, but he grabbed my hand.

Shaking his head no, a cough convulsed his body, blood spilling out of his mouth. The motherfucker knew how to aim, Kenny had pierced one of his lungs. The reality fell on me, weighting on my shoulders. The impotence squeezing my gut.

"There's no time, be realistic Ace…" I interrupted him

"(Y/n)… My name is (Y/N)" My voice broke at the end, the guilt hit me straight in the chest. I had never given him my actual name.

"(Y/n)… I like it." His little smile broke me even more. "Tell Hale that she was my dream." With effort he lifted his hand, trying to wipe my tears away, his own blood sticky and warm on my skin. I held his hand against my cheek.

"I will, but hang on. Just don't close your eyes, everything is going to be fine. Ivo and Hale are on their way, I'm sure." I looked at the door, measuring the effort I had to do to take him out. I didn't lack strength, but a sudden movement would only make his state worse.

"HALE! IVO!" The scream tearing my throat apart.

"Shh, it's okay" he said, with a calmness that unsettled me "It's going to be fine, you will be fine" His grip on my hand was faltering, and I could only watch as the death slowly claimed him. There was nothing left to do, and we both knew it. "Just promise me this. Please (Y/n), don't stop fighting, and I don't mean only in the basement, fight every day. For me."

I nodded.

"I will, I promise. But you're making it sound like a goodbye! Don't be like that. " I let out a broken laugh, trying to deny the truth. " Ivo is almost here… IVO!" Ann shook his head. "Fuck!" I cursed. It wasn't fair. It was never fair.

Ivo and Hale came running in the room but stopped dead on their tracks at the sight of the both of us, me with an agonizing Annton in my arms, sitting on a pool of blood.

Hale was the first to react, hurrying over and throwing herself next to us, grabbing Annton's body in her arms. Her hands went to his face, tenderly caressing him.

"Hello gorgeous"… Said Ann. " Ivo. I'm really sorry you have to see me like this, I hoped that only Ace saw me like this, but hey, nothing ever goes the way we want." He tried to laugh, but another coughing fit rocked his body, a wheezing sound came out of him, his lungs were holding on, trying to resist.

"What the fuck happened?" Ivo sat by me.

"Lord Reiss… Kenny the ripper," Annton couldn't finish.

When he said their names I remember about how I left him, but when a turned around, searching for them they were gone, the only proof that they were ever there was Kenny tooth on the stone floor.

"Shit. Those cowards ran away like rats!" I cursed.

"Guys… you're my family, and I love the three of you dearly… I'm sorry that I didn't say it often" Annton's sad smile finished me, the life abandoning his eyes. We didn't have the chance to say how much we loved him back.

A broken sigh left Ivo's body and Hale's broken howl shook the ground. Getting up, Ivo took's Annton's limp body and went out the door, while I just stayed on my knees, wailing like a newborn. Everything was fine a few hours ago, we were happy, and alive. And now i was broken, Annton was dead and I whished I was too. I lost one of the most important people in my life.

"Hale, we need to go. The Military will be here in any minute." The determination in Ivo's voice was surprising, specially as he held his friend's dead body, tears rolling down his cheeks.

Hale came out of her catatonic state, rubbing harshly her face, Annton's blood staining her pale skin. She pulled herself together, her eyes sharp and alert. I couldn’t imitate her. I was sobbing on the floor, shaking like a leaf.

"For fuck's sake Ace!" She grabbed me by the shoulders, pulling me to my feet." We just lost Annton, and if we stay here, someone else is going to die, and it's most likely you, so put on your big girl's pants and snap out of it. We'll be able to mourn Ann when all of this is over." Se said, the sadness in her eyes brought me back to focus.

She pushed me to the door, and we exited my backroom.

The chaos had consumed everything.

All the nobles were at the door, desperately trying to leave, and a few of the torches had fallen to the ground, setting a few of the expensive curtains on fire. The smoke turning the air thick and impossible to breath

"What's going on!?" I asked, too stunned to move, my entire world had fell to ashes in front of my eyes.

"Someone ratted us out, the military forces are on their way. If we don't get out of here, we'll be executed." Said Hale "So move! There's a tunnel behind one of the bleachers"

The three of us hurried through the room. The temperature had spiked up, the air burning my lungs with every inhale. There was an opening on the door, barely wide enough for Ivo to fit with Ann in his arms. He went first, me following behind while Hale pulled the Bleacher against the wall, trying to cover our steps.

The tunnel was pitch black, and it went on and on. Without a source of light the three of us moved in complete silence, except for the occasional heartbreaking sobs.

"Ace… What happened?" Hale asked, trying to mask the tremble in her voice.

"Lord Reiss tried to took advantage of me, and i tried to defend myself, but Kenny…" I paused trying to swallow the knot in my throat. " Ann came in when I was on the floor, and he fought Kenny… But he took out a knife…" My voice broke "It's not fair! Everything was supposed to be fine! We should be drinking Ale and joking around! We were supposed to stay together… That's why we have these rings… if only I…" I couldn't hold it back anymore. My feelings poured out, and almost like a faucet, the tears fell.

I was sad, angry, afraid. Hale was going to hate, because of me Ann was dead. I knew I would hate myself in her position. And it was okay, I hated myself too, I should've been smarter.

"Let me tell you something, Ace…" Ivo started.

"(Y/n)." I interrupted. "My name is (Y/n), I'm sorry i never told you guys."

"(Y/n)… I like it" Hale's words the same as Annton's. I cried harder.

"Annton knew what he was doing when he got involved. He was even more afraid for you than he was for himself. He died protecting someone he loved, someone who was a part of his family. Don't blame yourself, the only one responsible for his lost is Lod Reiss and that criminal he has as a guard dog, and I'm not staying with my arms crossed.

"But…" I started but paused because of the tears.

“(Y/n)" I flinched. Her voice was harsh. "We live in a cruel world, constantly hunted down by monsters. And I'm not only referring to the titans outside. Sometimes the monsters look just like us," Her voice was a little calmer, but the crying was obvious. " A man took the love of my life away, and the only thing I can do now is live on and remember him… No matter how much i wish i was dead too. I can't, he wouldn't be happy about it." Her voice came out strangled at the end of the sentence.

After that we walked in silence. One hour later the path divided in two roads.

"Take (Y/n) out of here, I'll protect Ann. We'll meet up later." Said Ivo.

I circled him with my arms, squeezing him and Ann close to me. I let them go and Hale immediately took my place. I heard a kissing sound, and I knew she was saying goodbye.

"Stay safe, we'll meet up on top." I heard his steps fading in the distance, taking the left road.

Hale and I went right, completely blind.

I cleared my throat and spoke.

"Hale… Annton asked me to say something to you. "My tears had stopped, but the pain on my chest only grew with very passing second, I was about to explode. " He said 'Tell Hale that She was my dream', I'm sorry I'm saying it now, but I thought it was priv…" Her shuddering inhale halted my words.

"Goddamn it Annton! Did you really waited for your death bed to admit it!?" Her sobs raised the hairs on my arm.

"How did it end up like this?…" I thought out loud.

"The world is a hostile place (Y/n), one can only be strong for those who left too soon… I want you to have this, i'm sure he woul've agreed with me" She left something cold on my hand. I immediatley recognized the shape of Annton's ring. i clenches my fist around it and place it abvobe my heart , the tears came back, and diddn't left for hours.

When we finnaly made it out of the tunnels the sun was already out, it's light blinding us.

I was completely lost, the tunnel had a lot of twists and turns, maiking it impossible to track.

"Where are we…?" I asked, my throath hoarse because of the tears.

"On the outsides of Wall Rose. We better rest for a bit." Hale looked around

The zone where we emeged was devoid of pepole, a few houses surrounding us, but they seemed abbandonded. Looking at them reminded me of the day i me Annton, and my heat ached.

We went inside of one, sitting on the floor. We catched our breath for a few minutes, and she got up.

"I'm going to get some water, I know a few of the guards around this part. Stay here and wait for me." She left, closing the door behind her.

The morning's pale light came inside throw the window, the dust in the air shimmering because of it, i looked at my hand, where the two identical rings rested. I was broken.

Annton was one of the few i loved, besides my parents, and he was gone, because of me.

It was the first death i experienced, my mother's happened when i was too young to undestand. But this time i was awae of the ceranity of it, and knowing he was not coming back hurted like a bitch. The guilt churned on my chest, i shoul've killed Kenny when i had the chance. Now he was free, running around with Lord Reiss doing wh knew what.

I wondered where was Ivo, and how was he holding up, what did he do with annton's body? More than friends they were brothers.

More than half an hour went by whe Hale runned inside the house, her eyes wild and pale as a ghost. I got up and grabbed her shoulders. Her wide and frightened eyes looked at me, the tears threatening to spill out.

Hale closed her eyelids tightly , opening her mouth.

"They blame you for Annton's death" She said " The garrison and the Military Police are searching for you"

I fell to the floor.

#Levi ackerman x reader #x reader #levi x reader #levi ackerman #attack on titan #reader insert #attack on titan x reader #chapter

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