#levi’s colors are blue and white so her wearing yellow feels so off >_<< /div> Explore tagged Tumblr posts

[team-mythic-beasts]

The Gods of Hetaveyond: 10 Facts About Photia 🐦

A.K.A. The Sun Goddess, The Founder (of Civilization), Lady of Light, etc.

After the introduction of Diadema, here is her mentor and fellow goddess, Photia— because how can you have a moon deity without another that presides over the sun?

1. Photia is the leader of the pantheon, though not the oldest or most worshipped god.

2. Photia is allowed two magical gifts due to her status, of which she has chosen to grant sword singing and sorcery to promising mortals.

3. Photia’s way of distributing her gifts inadvertently birthed a classist society within her continent of Illiosa; while the gifted ones flourish, the non-gifted struggle to make a name for themselves.

4. Photia only allows herself to be seen if her presence is truly necessary, as she thinks it dangerous to have mortals gaze upon her too often.

5. Photia has granted the leaders of Illiosa special authority, allowing them to summon their goddess directly. However, only the monarchs of Tōnichi have been known to exercise such power.

6. Photia had a Twin named Tefna, who spawned vampiric entities where the Founder’s light does not shine.

7. Photia requested the creation of the Moon, as Tefna’s influence could only be suppressed by light. The “Vampire Queen” had not been seen since Diadema released her magnum opus — a massive, multifaceted lantern — into the night sky.

8. The only thing rarer than Photia’s own presence is her gigantic, fiery wings. Said to radiate heat comparable to that of the sun’s rays itself, evidence of such wings now remain only in ancient murals and statues composed in her likeness.

9. Besides Illiosans, Photia is also worshipped by the elves of Phantasmia, some of whom even desire to become sword singers.

10. Photia is based on the pioneer of Aveyond x Hetalia, @levijonescc! 🩵🤍

(Previous: Diadema | Next: Aluros)

[wroteclassicaly]

A/N: Feeling a little (a lot) soft, have this visual. So here y’all go 💚💛

Warnings: Tooth rotting fluff, pregnancy, mentions Steve with a breast milk kink, and mild smut.

It’s nearing sundown now, Indiana weather deciding to slack off on humidity for most of the day. You’ve been outside with your family for hours. Chlorine, pb&j for lunch, sun lotion, scattered towels and hats, naps, making bets that one could do a cannon ball better than the other. You’d had your shower first when the evening fell, your oldest helping you bathe your toddler afterwards, Steve having his time to clean up following suit, finishing off the Harrington brood by bathing the twins. Everyone was tired, muscles aching, sleep wearing you all down.

Still, you all loaded into the brand new minivan Steve was excited to buy, parked right next to the BMW in your garage — and ventured to the new diner in town. Burgers, hot dogs, fries, and milkshakes galore. It all ended in time for the kids to catch their nightly cartoons and flood the backyard with various toys. Your firstborn child - recently having turned seven, she wanted to do pedicures tonight, as promised. But what you didn’t expect was for her to ask if she could please paint your toes first.

And here you are, reclining back on an old quilt Steve owned as a teenager, yellow sundress swaying with the evening summer breeze, your left hand resting atop your swollen belly, enjoying each little kick baby Harrington number five gives to your palm, with your daughter focussed intently on painting your toenails a nice cherry red. What you could make out of her over your stomach, she’s got her tongue poked in concentration, just like her dad. Speaking of which, you catch his golden wedding band hitting the light, his bare feet moving through freshly cut grass, and he’s standing at your side, the twins walking beside him, your toddler holding hands in the middle. Three girls and one boy — every single child having Steve’s eye color. Everyone is currently taking bets on what this next baby will be, but Steve doesn’t care either way, neither do you.

He’s wear tight denim Levi’s and a white tank top, his silver chain nestled in his chest hair. He’s got a little bit of a beard growing out, glasses resting on his face, highlighted hair overgrown and curling at the ends. His never fading beauty. Not to mention the life he’s provided you with, the growing family. Protector was in Steve’s blood, so it’s made more and more sense to you as the years went, how much of a hands on dad he is, even with the girls interests.

He never pressured you to have a child, let alone this many. But it’s what you found yourself wanting the first several months into your marriage. You could pursue life goals and have a family if you battled dangerous underworlds. Having careers as a balance, it wasn’t easy. Arguments, tears, fears, only to come out stronger.

The twins - dressed in bibbed overalls, they let your toddler go as she toddles over to Steve and clings to his leg. He scoops her up and takes his place near your ankles, watching your daughter work. Your twin girl (her’s and her brother’s fifth birthday party looming), asks if she can paint too. Not long after, your son also questions. It’s going to be a canvas kinda mess on your feet, and you honestly can’t wait.

“Everybody grab a color. Let’s make mommy feel super special, alright?” Steve’s deep voice sounds, making you smile softly, eyes raising to look at the peach sky, pink streaking across, mixing in with blue hues - sundown.

~*~

You’ve just finished putting the last kid down for bed, most of them already out. By the time you shut the door your oldest is snoring… just like Steve. He surprises you in the hallway outside of your bedroom door, admiring the pictures Jonathan has taken throughout the past seven years; the first one, Steve’s massive hand print on your swollen belly, photo two, Steve’s hand print and a new, tinier little set of fingers, photograph three, Steve’s print and the print of two growing little hands, plus another small hand, and the last/current photo, your tummy is covered in four different sizes of tiny handprints, Steve’s huge print beside. He slides in beside you and wraps his arms around your swollen torso, his chin on your shoulder. You relax into his scent immediately, your hands clasping through his own.

“You ready for bed, honey? We were pretty busy today.”

You’re ready for a lot more than bed. Your evaporating energy being charged into a live wire, open and sparking. You turn in Steve’s arms and reach for his hand, leading him into your double door master, securing it behind you. He’d checked on all the kids, baby monitors up. Now he wants to take care of you, his wife.

The sight of you in your sundress, how it flares out from your being pregnant, to your full breasts sitting inside. Steve’s hand finds its way up your thigh, fabric following, his nose dipping into the crease of your breasts, his mouth sucking at whatever cleavage he can find. It’s always been a secret kink of his, your breast milk. And he’s the best at getting a duct unclogged for you, helping you when you’re too sore. You tilt your head back, letting him work the zipper, dress gliding off your body and pooling at your feet.

One spare hand of his finds your growing stomach, thumb at your navel. You’re practically mush, body heavy, head light. He kisses each swell, nosing up your collar bone until he’s meeting your shoulder, to your neck, and finally, your lips. On the wet break away, he’s speaking lowly, reserved.

“Go get on the bed, honey. Let me clean up your feet a little first. I’m afraid our merry band of artists can’t quite stay in the lines yet.”

“You, or the kids, Steve?”

He briefly pauses on his way to the bathroom, hands on his hips. Some things never change. You roll your eyes and discard your undergarments, climbing into the comfort of the covers. He’s back in seconds with polish remover and a Q tip, but stops short at your naked form, propped and running your fingers over the stretch of skin. He forgets how to breathe, what to say.

Thoughts of worshipping every mark, how you’re changing, the way he could never thank you for being you, for giving this family, and just the sheer thought that he misses your body, what you two have, alone — kids aside, it has him swallowing harshly. You can sense him watching you and you turn to your husband. He clambers into bed, still fully clothed, breathing choppy. You coo him into calming down, and he begins his work on your feet, massaging them once he’s done, shedding his own clothing after washing his hands. You’re waiting for him on your back, upper half propped by pillows.

Steve slowly descends beside you, already half hard, knuckles gently dragging up your arm and over your breasts, before they path down your stomach and ultimately find you between your legs. “All these years and you never stop getting this wet for me, honey.”

You cup him by the back of his neck, fingers tangling into the curls there, his necklace swaying as he uses muscular arms to keep himself from resting his weight on you. You grab it, trying to keep a hold of it as he helps you onto your side. At eight months, this is the most comfortable position for you right now. By the time Steve is sliding into you, you’re both giving into whining sighs, to the point of near tears. You’ve missed him, even if it’s only been a few nights.

You’ve been like this every single pregnancy, that never changing in spite of their differences. Once approved by the doctor, you rarely want to leave his side during these overly intense feelings. Steve rolls with whatever is happening, there when you want him to be, giving you space when you don’t. Nothing is the same, life is always interesting for the Harrington’s.

[666writingcafe]

The Afterparty

Author's Note: The basic idea is that instead of thinking about going to the dance, MC decides to plan this event instead. I like associating songs with different characters and thought it would be fun to imagine a concert where those songs would be performed/covered.

MIDNIGHT CONCERT AT THE FALL

DOORS OPEN AT ELEVEN

FEATURING THE EXILES

۞۞۞

SETLIST

Hellraiser by Ozzy Osbourne

You Give Love a Bad Name by Bon Jovi (Blue)

Bloody Mary by Lady Gaga (Purple)

For Your Entertainment by Adam Lambert (Light Blue)

VOID by Melanie Martinez (Orange)

Alone by Heart (Green)

INTERMISSION

For Whom The Bell Tolls by Metallica (Teal)

Money Make Her Smile by Bruno Mars (Yellow)

Feed My Frankenstein by Alice Cooper (Red)

She by Harry Styles (White)

bad idea, right? by Olivia Rodrigo (Pink)

ENCORE: Do Not Disturb by Halestorm (Black)

۞۞۞

FUN FACTS

MC always wanted to release their inner rock star but never felt confident enough to do so.

Diavolo was the one to suggest the concert as MC was sharing songs from the human world with him.

Each song on the setlist is attached to a color, and each color is associated with a person.

The songs (excluding the encore) get introduced by a color wheel.

Except for the opening song, MC wears something matching the color of the song they're performing.

MC sings and plays guitar and the piano.

۞۞۞

SONG DETAILS

Hellraiser is linked to MC.

Lyric: I keep saying that it's getting too much/But I know I'm a liar

Lucifer is Blue.

Lyric: You paint your smile on your lips/Blood red nails on your finger tips/A schoolboy's dream, you act so shy/Your very first kiss was your first kiss goodbye.

He is in attendance. One, he wants to keep an eye on Mammon and Asmo. Two, Barbatos had a extra ticket and invited him to tag along.

Part of him feels embarrassed to hear MC call him out like that, but mostly seeming them perform arouses him.

Belphie is Purple.

I mean, have you seen his battle sprite? The boy is a trained dancer.

The song is heavily choreographed.

The choreography is influenced by ballet.

He is not in attendance. He went straight back to the House after the dance to sleep.

He watches a video of the performance the next morning and is impressed by the artistry of the performance.

Simeon is Light Blue.

Lyric: Oh, I bet you thought that I was soft and sweet/You thought an angel swept you off your feet/Well, I'm about to turn up the heat

MC remembers how he behaved at the traveling carnival and decided to channel that energy into their performance.

He is in attendance. Solomon dragged him to the Fall after they settled Luke down in his bed.

He is BLUSHING.

Most people would think that he's horrified by the provocative lyrics, but no.

The song might as well be one of his diary entries describing how he feels about MC, so hearing them sing what's been on his mind...

Levi is Orange.

MC is attached to a wheel of death that magically spins and deteriorates as the song progresses.

The song describes someone who judges themselves harshly and has major anxiety.

If that isn't Levi to a tee, I don't know what is.

He is not in attendance. The dance drained his social battery, and he needs to be alone for a while.

However, he watches a livestream of the event on his phone, so he's witnessing the performance in real time.

By the end, Levi can barely see the screen due to the tears in his eyes.

Satan is Green.

Satan + pianos = match made in heaven

Plus, it's a rock ballad.

He is not in attendance for the same reason as Levi. He finds The Fall too loud for his liking.

He watches the performance the next evening after he's done studying.

He thinks the performance is beautiful.

Barbatos is Teal.

It's canon that he likes metal music.

I'm in the group of people that believe that he would enjoy Metallica.

You know the riffs played on the bass guitar? Well, imagine that they're played on a violin. Now, imagine that the person playing the violin is none other than Diavolo himself.

The reason for the intermission is so that he can disguise himself so that people don't suspect that he's on stage with MC.

As mentioned earlier, Barbatos is in attendance. He's the only person outside the band that knows about Diavolo's musical feature (which is basically how he got tickets to the show).

He appears stoic on the inside, but he's simply enjoying the music in his own quiet way.

Now, slight detour but still relevant to the song: I've seen a couple of posts that state that Lucifer has listened to Metallica. One of them presents the idea that he listened to the band a lot during his rebel angel days before he fell but that he only listens to them occasionally as a demon.

Needless to say, as soon as the music kicks in, Lucifer is literally this emoji: 😳

Mammon is Yellow.

It's literally in the title. What more could you ask for?

MC plays the role of an announcer, introducing a "new girl in town".

Who plays Mammon? A female doppelganger.

As mentioned earlier, he is in attendance.

He is BLUSHING (Part Two).

He has no idea what he's going to do the next time he sees MC. Will he faint? Will he compliment their performance? Will he pounce on them like an animal? The world may never know.

Beel is Red.

Food metaphors for sex? Literally Beel.

The second song that could be a diary entry.

He is not in attendance, for he doesn't particularly like the food they serve at The Fall.

He is instead eating at Hell's Kitchen when one of his classmates rushes up to him and has him watch a livestream of MC's performance.

Let's just say that he starts craving something else the longer he watches the performance.

Solomon is White.

I mean, he is the whitest boy in all of the three realms (lol).

In all seriousness, I know that in the original game, white was Luke's color and Solomon was a rainbow (like MC), but considering that everyone else has their own color and that MC wasn't performing a song about Luke...

Some background information: Harry Styles has admitted that he and his bandmates were on shrooms when they recorded this song and that the guitarist that plays the solo at the end (Mitch) didn't remember playing it (because he was that high) and had to learn it before they went on tour so that he wouldn't mess it up.

Needless to say, the song's trippy, and I think Solomon has a trippy vibe to him, so hence the song choice.

As stated earlier, he is in attendance.

He appreciates the work that went into the performance (which features some trippy set pieces).

Asmo is Pink.

Third song that could be a diary entry.

We all know Asmo's a slut, and we love him for it.

I also think he's a major pop rock girlie, and he would definitely be a big fan of Olivia Rodrigo (especially after GUTS).

He'd definitely be singing along and having a blast.

Not just during this song, but the entire concert. He LOVES seeing this side of MC.

Diavolo is Black.

*cough* Even if the devs can't settle on one shade *cough*

ANYWAY.

Out of all the songs, this is the one MC is most nervous to perform.

You see, they don't want to get in trouble for putting Diavolo on blast, and they almost don't perform the song at all.

However, after hearing the crowd begging for an encore, MC puts their fears aside and decides to just go for it (and worry about the consequences later).

MC has had a base costume that they've accessorized with different colored items throughout the evening. Underneath this base is a black lingerie set that they bought during a shopping trip with Asmo. This set gets revealed during a pause in the song where the lights go out briefly and come back on.

To make a long story short, MC is definitely getting railed after the concert.

Oh, and the "girlfriend" mentioned in the song? Lucifer.

[starstruckkittensweets]

Chapter LVI (“AWWW”)

A/N:  I had so much fun writing this chapter for you guys! Not only was I able to dabble into some much-needed territory between Levi and Mia, I also got to explore some new things with them, too. (You'll see later on in the chapter!) So I won't get too into it, but I have a list of warnings below because this chapter DOES include some smut! I hope you enjoy the chapter, my dears!

Fandom: Attack on Titan  Pairing: Levi x Mia (OC)  Words: 9.9k 

Warnings: 18+ only, NSFW content, oral sex (both male and female receiving), light bondage (restraints), discussions of said bondage, descriptions of sexually suggestive drawings, face-sitting, deep-throating 

Taglist: @omg-lexiloveyou, @ataraxia101, @super-peace-fangirl, @mr-robot-x, @unusversuscanicula

-

|LVI|

For the first time in years, I woke up feeling cold.

I pulled the blankets closer to me, before pressing my face into the mattress below. Levi’s arms weren’t around me, his chest wasn’t against me… What’s wrong with this picture? He knows better than to get up without waking me, at least!

The bedroom door creaked softly as it opened. I squinted through the darkness, barely making out Levi’s form as he stepped into the room. He was already dressed for the day, with his cravat tied delicately around his neck. It wasn’t even sunrise, and yet here he was, ready for the day.

“Oh good, you’re awake. It’s about time.”

I only glared at him as he came to sit at the edge of the bed, running a hand along my thigh. His hair was still a bit damp from his usual morning shower, and he had a small bundle of papers in his other hand. I groaned at the sight of it; it’s too early for paperwork already…

Levi’s eyebrow shot up when he finally noticed my glare. “Why are you pouting? I gave you more than enough time to sleep in.” 

“It’s not even fucking sunrise.” With a huff, I twisted around in the bed and threw the blankets over my head, desperate to catch a few more minutes of peace and quiet.

The mattress creaked as he shifted his weight, his hand coming to rest beside my head. It was hard not to smile as he hovered over my body, lips ghosting over my cheek and jaw.

“Don’t be such a brat.” There was a soft rustle in my ear as he held the papers between us. “Besides, I got those patterns you wanted.”

That caught my attention. Suddenly I was sitting upright in bed, nearly clunking my forehead against his own, and reaching for the papers like a greedy child.

“Let me see, let me see!”

He rolled his eyes as he handed them off to me. My eyes were now wide open, frantically scanning over the sketches and notes on each piece of paper. I was so invested with my reading I almost didn’t notice he was already talking.

“Ran into town yesterday with Eld and Petra. They seemed to like the idea, too. Eld even offered to help, if you need him. Apparently his parents made him learn how to sew when he was younger, too.”

“Oh, that’ll be great! This time I won’t have Evan to rely on, you know.”

The idea had crossed my mind just last week, when I was rummaging through Levi’s drawers to look for a shirt of his to wear to bed. I had come across the cravat I’d made him, with my little love message sewn into the fabric. Thinking about the cravat made me think about Lisbeth, Evan’s mother, who’d given me the pattern in the first place.

And then, I started thinking about the other kids on my squad. So with a little prompting from Levi, I’d decided to make them all handsewn gifts for Christmas this year: new scarves with matching hats and mittens, all in their favorite colors, with their names and the title Wolf Squad stitched on the fabric. Reggie’s set would be dark green, Evan’s would be blue, Gretel’s would be white, Murphy’s would be yellow…and Emily’s would be pink.

Emily Fischer was the newest member of the Elite Reconnaissance Squad, who had graduated just earlier this month with the rest of the 103rd Training Corps, in the first days of spring in the year 849. Ranking second in her class, and commended for her quick thinking and athletic abilities in the field, she’d accepted my offer to join the Wolf Squad (as Reggie and Evan had affectionately dubbed our little family) almost as soon as I’d asked her. She wouldn’t be joining the expeditions until later in the summer, but she was training as hard as she could every single day. (Even if she did butt heads with Gretel every now and then.)

The patterns were simple, easy to read and follow along with. I leaned over to kiss Levi’s cheek, only for him to pull away and grumble something about morning breath.

“Thanks for getting these for me, captain. You think they’ll like them, when they’re all finished?”

His hand came to rest at the top of my head, mussing up my already messy hair. “If they’re from you, I’m sure they’ll love them.”

“Aww, really? Like how you love that cravat I made you?”

His face scrunched up into a frown, but at least he didn’t deny it. I let out a laugh before placing the papers on the nightstand beside the bed. I could start working on them later—right now, I still had to catch up on my sleep.

So I flopped back down on the bed, but not before wrapping my arms around his neck and tugging him down with me. He grunted as he fell against my chest, hands lashing out at the sheets to keep himself grounded. I only smiled as he glared down at me, with his hands resting on either side of my head.

“So, I have the kids all figured out. Hanji’s always easy to please, and I’m sure I can find something nice for Erwin in either Trost or Ehrmich. The same goes for Mike and Nanaba, and I think I can get a new sketchbook or some fancy pens in Stohess for Moblit. But what do you want for Christmas this year?”

“Doesn’t matter,” he replied shortly, and I puffed out my cheeks at him.

“Yes, it does! I wasn’t able to do anything special this year for your birthday. At least, not like last year…” With everything that had been going on these last few months, between the trial and the nightmares and the struggle to return to normal life at the base, Levi and I hadn’t been able to get away for Christmas this year. This year, I was determined to make it up to him. “So tell me what you want. I promise, I’ll get it for you!”

His expression remained unchanged as he stared down at me, his fingertips brushing against my jaw. “You don’t have to get anything for me. I don’t want anything, understand?”

“Oh, come on, everyone wants something nowadays!”

“Alright, fine—then what do you want?”

“…What?”

My smile fell as he leaned in close, his nose brushing against my temple. “I said,” he whispered, his breath hot against my ear, “what do you want?”

It was the first time he’d asked me something like that. He was always so secretive with his words, never choosing to be blunt with how he truly felt. With every conversation I had, I always had to look deeper into what he actually meant. I had to decode his words, try to look into his mind to see what he was trying to say.

Rarely did he ever lay it out for me like this, and leaving me speechless in the process. I stammered over my words for a few moments, before taking a deep breath and meeting his eyes once more.

“Well, I just want you.”

It was his turn to look shocked—his silver eyes widened and his jaw tensed up. As slowly as I could, I sat myself up and leaned against the headboard of the bed, taking his face in my hands.

“I don’t want anything else in this world, as long as I have you at my side. We could be penniless in the streets, starving for scraps, stranded in the cold, and I still wouldn’t care, because I have you. Levi, I could die tomorrow with a smile on my face, without a care in the world, because I know you love me. That is the greatest gift you’ve ever given me, and I don’t think I’ll ever be able to repay you back.”

Maybe it was the lingering sleep that weighed my eyelids down. Or maybe it was the invisible weight on my chest, crushing against me ever since the trial in Mitras. Whatever it was, I knew I had to get this out now—because I didn’t know when (or if) there would be a next time.

“So, with that in mind,” I added with a cheeky smile, “can you please tell me what you want for Christmas? It’s your birthday, after all.”

He didn’t roll his eyes like I thought he would. He didn’t scoff or shake his head, or even glare at me like he normally would. Instead, he lowered his head and pressed his face against my chest. His hands were warm against my waist, securing my body against his, as his breath clouded across my skin.

“…I’ll let you know in the fall.”

I wanted to protest, but I snapped my mouth shut just in time. It would probably be the best I got out of him; might as well take it while I could, right?

“Fine,” I let out a heavy sigh, carding my fingers through his soft black hair, “have it your way, captain.”

He didn’t say anything; he just continued to hold himself against my chest, his soft breaths lulling me into a light but comforting slumber.

|~|

Murphy was in the meadow with his mare when I decided to let Edel out for a quick run. The silver gelding snorted and pawed at the ground as I checked his saddle and loosened his stirrups at the gates, too impatient to wait for me. He always had fun with the other horses, especially the ones belonging to the kids. Not as much fun as he had with Mischa, but still; he was always happy to have some company.

But just as I swung myself up in the saddle, a blur of blue and gray came barreling towards the entrance of the fence. Edel grunted and shook his head as Emily raced by, leaning forward in her seat, gripping the reins as tight as she could. Her blue roan mare snorted and leapt the fence with ease, and Emily let out a cheer as she began to slow her down.

Oh, they must be training again.

Ever since Emily joined the squad, she and Murphy were basically inseparable when it came to their horses. While she didn’t have the experience Murphy did, she was always practicing with her mare, and sometimes I could see them training together well into the night, until either me or Levi came down to remind them of curfew.

Murphy was nodding in approval as she slowed the mare to a stop, leaning down to pat her neck. “That was a lot better than last time! You felt a difference, right?”

“You mean it felt smoother, right? Then yeah, it did! Ivy, didn’t it feel better?” The blue mare nickered softly at her rider’s praise.

It was strange, seeing them both act like little kids again. Well, it made sense for Emily, since she hadn’t been out on a real expedition just yet. But it was nice to see Murphy smiling, even after all this time. And he seemed to be getting along well with Emily; I could see by the way he reached out to pat her mare on the neck.

“Oh, good morning, Captain Wolf!”

Murphy’s face broke out into a smile as he glanced up at me, fingers grazing his mare’s soft mane. Emily waved over to me as well, before squeezing her legs around Ivy’s sides. The blue roan snorted and began trotting again, eager to get rid of some excess energy.

Edel flicked his tail happily as I urged him past the gate, and he bumped his nose against Murphy’s mare’s snout when he reached her. I wracked my brain to try to remember the mare’s name—with all the names within the Survey Corps, it was a little hard to remember the names of their horses, as well.

“You two look busy this morning.” Murphy’s cheeks brightened, and he kept his eyes on his mare as he brushed his fingers through her mane. “Enjoying your day off?”

“Yes, ma’am,” he answered with a smile, but the tips of his ears remained red. “Ivy seems to really like it when Emily rides her around like that. And I think Misty does, too.”

Misty—so that’s her name… I’ll have to remember that. The brown mare nickered softly at her rider’s touch, craning her neck to meet the warmth of his palm.

Meanwhile, Emily was still running Ivy around the length of the meadow, leaning forward in the saddle with the reins bunched in her fists. Her twin pigtails blew in the breeze—and maybe it was a trick of the rising sun, but I could’ve sworn I saw a shade of red rather than her usual blond.

“Keep an eye on her,” I whispered over to Murphy, and his face reddened even more, “and make sure she doesn’t accidentally fall off or anything, if she gets too excited.”

“Y-yes, ma’am.”

I snickered to myself. Enough with teasing the poor boy; I had work to do, and a horse to exercise.

“I’ll be at the edge of the forest if you need me.” With that, I gathered the reins and pressed my heels into the gelding’s sides. “Don’t work yourselves too hard—you still have training tomorrow, so don’t forget!”

A chorus of groans and a mumbled “yes, captain” filled the air. I bit back a smile and urged Edel forward, and suddenly the two of us were off, galloping through the meadow and towards the nearby forest.

His hooves thundered against the flattened grass. The trees were tinted with a faint shade of red from the sunrise in the distance. The air was cool and crisp, a perfect late April morning. Winter was long gone, with spring only a couple weeks away. And Edel and I were more than ready for the warm weather.

The two of us followed along the edge of the forest, before dipping in between the trees and onto the familiar dirt trail along the ground. It was a trail the two of us could follow with our eyes closed—the same one my father had rode through before his retirement from the Scouts. Sometimes he would tell me about the early morning rides he took with his own steed, a large gray stallion with chocolate brown eyes, and how he always offered to take Ma out on a few of them, but she always shook her head and declined. She insisted it was only because she didn’t want to get dirty; Dad insisted it was because she was scared (always earning a light punch on his arm for that).

The constant drip, drip, drip of melting snow from the branches made me smile. Edel whinnied softly as he neared the old fallen log, right in the middle of the trail. I hunched over in my seat, grabbing a fistful of his mane and leaning low against his neck.

He soared over the jump perfectly, hooves kicking up clumps of dirt and leaves. I fell back into the saddle, palms sweaty and chest heaving, as he continued to race along the trail, his speed never faltering.

That’s my boy. I grazed my fingers along his neck before urging him along, and the two of us sped down the trail until our muscles screamed for us to stop.

These were the moments I lived for: running through the woods with my trusty steed, breathing in the chilled air and the scent of leaves and morning dew. Moments where I could let myself relax completely, and not even in the same way I could whenever I was with Levi or Hanji, or even my own squad. It was a different kind of relaxing, one I had known ever since I learned to trust the horse at my side.

I gave Edel another pat on the neck before leaning forward in the saddle again, as he leapt over yet another fallen log.

|~|

The rest of the day had been uneventful, for the most part. Once Edel had been brushed off and fed and watered after our morning ride, I had retreated back to Levi’s office, to finish some paperwork and sort out the patterns he’d gotten for me.

He was currently out with Erwin, probably discussing the plans for the first expedition of the year (which thankfully, I would be able to go on this time), so I had the office to myself. I made myself at home at his desk, sorting through the paperwork I’d brought with me, signing documents left and right until my hand hurt.

Suddenly, the little jar of ink he had on his desk started to look a little empty. I pulled open one of the side drawers, looking for a fresh bottle and groaning when I couldn’t find one. But instead, in the very bottom drawer of the desk, I found something else that piqued my interest.

A little black sketchbook, similar to the one he kept on his nightstand (after hours and hours of begging him to do so, just so I could flip through the drawings whenever I was bored). So I wasn’t surprised when I opened it to the first page and saw a sketch of myself on Edel, with the reins twisted around my hands. He had filled quite a few of the pages of his other sketchbook with drawings of me and my horse, but still, seeing even more of them made me smile like a schoolgirl.

I flipped the page—and I nearly dropped the book as though it had burned me.

It was another sketch of me, but I wasn’t with Edel or looking out the window, or even working on paperwork like he’d drawn me before. Instead, I was staring up on the page, lying on my stomach in bed, with nothing but the sheets draped over my waist. Through the ink smudges and pencil markings, I could still see the outlines of my breasts, pressed against the mattress as the sheet barely clung to my hips.

…Now I know why he kept this in the bottom drawer.

My jaw dropped as the next page gave me a similar drawing. This time I was lying on my back in bed, in nothing but my bra and panties, as my wrists were tied together with what appeared to be, from the shading of the sketch, Levi’s cravat.

…Oh.

It wasn’t as though I was ashamed of these drawings. They were beautiful; I was always amazed with what Levi could come up with whenever he decided to draw me. He never let me watch him do it (he always made sure I was looking away from him), but he would show me the finished product afterwards, scoffing at any praise I gave him as the tips of his ears turned red.

But seeing myself in this kind of light—knowing he had drawn me in such suggestive positions… A strange sense of pride began to well up in my chest.

Oh well, it’s not like it’s nothing he’s ever seen before, anyway. And besides, you’re not really bothered by it, are you? No, I wasn’t. But still, it was strange to see these kinds of drawings of myself.

At least he made sure to make me look pretty. I traced my finger over the outline of my face on the page, careful not to smudge any of the ink and ruin the sketch.

I leaned back in the seat and continued to flip through the sketchbook. Not all of the drawings were suggestive, but they all seemed to be centered on me. And from the dates written on the corners of the pages, they appeared to be drawn all within the last two years, during the spring of 847.

Right after we made it official. The memory brought a smile to my face.

There was one of me sitting on the couch of my office, nose scrunched up as I read a particularly interesting book in my lap. Another one of me cleaning the windows of Levi’s office, with the silly little white cloth wrapped around my head to keep the dust out of my hair. Another of me dozing off with a blanket thrown over my waist, my head resting in what appeared to be Levi’s lap. And sure enough, his hand was resting on my shoulder in the drawing, his knuckles just brushing the flesh of my cheek.

But then there were the drawings that made me blush. One of me sitting on the edge of Levi’s desk, fully clothed, but with my legs spread open on either side of the chair. Another of me laying down in bed, smirking up at the page from the side, with my hands tied together at my chest. One in particular had me choking on my own spit: Levi had drawn me from his perspective, it seemed, straddling him with my legs thrown over his hips, smiling down at him as I covered my breasts with my hands. My eyes were half-lidded, and there was the faintest blush splashed across my cheeks.

They were gorgeous, no doubt about it. But that wasn’t what made me love them even more. It was the fact that, no matter how suggestive they got, the most intimate parts of my body were always hidden, either by my clothes, my hands, or the sheets of the bed. Levi had never drawn those parts of me, even though he had seen them countless times already.

The two of us hadn’t even had sex since early last year, before the trial in Mitras and everything around it. I had gotten better with our moments of intimacy by now, and I was nowhere near as nervous as I had been last year. Still, Levi assured me that we could move at my pace, and that he would be ready when I was.

So looking at these beautiful drawings, knowing by the way he handled my body in them and how protective he seemed of me through his sketches of me… It made me proud, in a weird sort of way, and I was only falling deeper in love with that man the more I looked through the book.

I was so engrossed in my reading that I barely noticed the lock turning in the door. Only when I heard the scuff of boots hitting the floor did I jump in my seat, gripping the sketchbook with sweaty palms as I stared up at Levi’s face.

His mouth closed, his jaw tightened—and when he glanced down at the book in my arms, the tips of his ears burned a bright red shade.

“Fuck,” he hissed under his breath, swiping a hand through his hair, “shit, you weren’t supposed to see that one—”

I waved a hand at him, keeping the book secure against my chest. He was always so protective with his drawings, and I was terrified he would get so embarrassed by them that he would rip the book out of my hands and tear it to shreds right then and there.

“No, it’s fine! I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to find it when I did—but I was looking for ink and then I found this book, and…” My mouth curled into a smile as I stared up at him, watching his cheeks turn a pretty pink color. “Levi, they’re beautiful.”

At least he didn’t seem mad at me for finding the book and looking through it. If anything, he seemed to be mad at himself for even drawing those sketches in the first place. But that only confused me to no end. He was a talented artist in his own right—so why couldn’t he enjoy drawing the things that made him happy in his spare time?

“Don’t flatter me,” he mumbled, keeping his eyes on the floor. “You shouldn’t have to see those…things.”

“What, you mean these?” I opened the book to a random page—the one that held a drawing of me lying on my back, hands barely covering the blush on my face. “I don’t mind them, you know. In fact, I love them.”

Was he seriously angry with himself for even drawing me in such a light? I didn’t find it creepy or obsessive—I was well aware about his little passion for art for a couple years now. It was only natural that he wanted to draw me once in a while. Besides, his sketches didn’t demean me as either a person or a lover. They were just there, a silent affirmation of his love for me.

“I love them,” I found myself repeating, as I flipped through the pages again. Suddenly, I found the one of myself laying on the bed, with his cravat tied around my wrists. “And this one… I didn’t know you were into that kind of stuff, Levi.”

“I’m not,” he hissed, and the tips of his ears were practically scarlet at this point.

“Then why would you draw it, huh? You obviously have at thing for it, and that’s okay.”

I could feel my stomach getting warmer by the second, burning with desire for the man in front of me. It had been so long since I felt his body against mine, felt him inside of me. With everything going on, between the aftermath of the trial, our busy schedules, training the new cadets, and our own personal boundaries, there was simply no time for us to lean back and relax like we used to.

Suddenly his hands were around my wrists, lowering them as gently as he could, mindful of the book I still held between them. His mouth was set in a tight line, his silver eyes darker than usual.

“Stop it,” he growled, and I shivered at the tone of his voice, “don’t feed into that kind of shit. You don’t have to pretend to like it, you know.”

…What is he talking about? “But Levi, I do like them!”

“It’s fucking unnatural,” he spat out, and I visibly jumped at the sound. “Drawing you like that, all helpless and shit… Is that really what you want me to do to you?”

What was he getting at, exactly? Was he talking about those drawings of me with my hands bound? There was nothing degrading about them—at least, not to me. I didn’t look helpless or in pain in any of them; in fact, I looked like I was enjoying myself. And sure, maybe tying your partner’s hands up during sex was a little unusual (as far as I knew, it wasn’t a common practice between couples within the Walls), but there was nothing wrong with it. As long as both partners consented to it, what was so wrong about it?

Levi’s face fell as he tore himself away from me, leaving my fingers stretched out in the air, seeking the warmth of his body. He sat himself down on the couch, head in his hands, as his midnight tresses poked out from between his fingers. I stared at him, still awkwardly clutching the book in my hands, with the drawing of myself and my hands tied in front of me still staring up at me.

“You just got used to having sex again,” he mumbled, so quietly I almost couldn’t hear him. “And not even all the way. And now you found those fucking…” He sighed heavily, raking his hands through his hair. “You shouldn’t have to look at those. Not when you’re still uneasy about having sex.”

I could feel my cheeks burning at his words. But he was right—just a few months ago (in time for his birthday, in fact), I’d cornered him in his bedroom at night and got down on my knees for him, sucking him off like I’d always done, before everything that happened in Mitras. And a few weeks after that, I’d finally let him lay me down in his bed and bury his head in between my thighs. But that was as far as we’d gotten—and for a while, it was fine for both of us.

I was still a little reluctant to go all the way with him (which seemed a little silly in my eyes, since we’d done it countless times before), but Levi was respectful and kept his distance, as he always had been. He never pushed me or went against my boundaries, always encouraging me to take the lead instead of him.

My chest heaved with a sigh as I placed the book on the corner of the desk, slowly making my way over to the couch. I kneeled down in front of him, fingers gently curling around his wrists. He didn’t look at me, but at least he didn’t pull away.

“Levi,” I kept my voice low as I spoke, “I know you won’t ever hurt me—I’ve known that for a few years now. And I don’t think those drawings are degrading. They’re beautiful, and I know you wouldn’t have drawn them if they made you uncomfortable.”

“That’s the problem,” he hissed under his palms, “I don’t feel bad for them, and I should.”

“What is there to feel bad about?” I couldn’t keep the edge out of my voice as I spoke, but I willed myself to remain calm. I wouldn’t make this situation any better by getting angry at him. “They’re drawings, Levi. What’s so bad about drawing a picture of me with my hands tied up like that?”

The look he gave me sent a shiver up my spine. Full of fury, denial, and unbridled lust. And shame. It hurt me to see him like this, feeling bad and blaming himself for something he couldn’t really control.

“…Do you really want to be treated like that, Mia? Tied up like that, unable to move unless I say it’s okay. Are you really willing to give up control of yourself like that? To be subjected to someone else’s mercy, to be completely vulnerable?”

I still wanted to say yes, like I always had. Those drawings had sparked something inside of me—maybe someday I would be able to have my wrists tied up like that, to allow Levi to do whatever he wanted to me. But the way he’d worded it, and the amount of control I realized I would have to give up to him… Suddenly goosebumps were prickling on my arms, the hairs on the back of my neck rising up.

Control and vulnerability were two words we’d grown incredibly acquainted with over the last year. Levi had always been careful with what we did in the bedroom, but even more so after the two of us had returned from Mitras last spring. He was incredibly protective of me, always fighting against his own urges to satisfy mine. Always making sure I was one hundred percent comfortable with what I was doing, either to myself or to him, always worried he would end up hurting me if he wasn’t careful enough.

The two of us had emphasized the need for control in our relationship more than ever in these last few months. And if this was going to tear it in one way or another…it wasn’t worth it. It wasn’t worth frightening me or hurting Levi.

For the first time we had sex, at least, I didn’t want to restrict myself that much. Maybe another time, once I grew more comfortable with the idea. But for now…I was better off staying in control of myself.

“I mean…maybe someday down the line, I’d like to try it out. Besides, how bad could it be, as long as it’s with you?” He rolled his eyes, but at least he managed to relax his shoulders a bit. “And if you’re not comfortable with it, we don’t have to try it out at all.”

“I’m perfectly comfortable with it,” he retorted, and his hand found the top of my head at once, mussing up my already messy hair. “It’s you who I’m worried about.”

“You’re too sweet. So, does that mean that you wouldn’t have a problem with being the one who’s tied up?”

His fingers suddenly froze against my hair, palm splayed flat against my head. I glanced up at him, my mouth falling open, just in time to see him turn away, with a light dusting of pink on his cheeks.

“Wait…really?!”

“Fuck off!”

He spat out the answer so quickly, so suddenly… All I could do was just stand there, still crouched down in front of the couch, with my jaw sinking further to the floor.

…Oh.

So that’s how it is, huh?

To be honest, I couldn’t really picture Levi in such a submissive light. He was always so controlling, so head-on in the bedroom that I couldn’t imagine him as anything else. He was definitely someone who preferred taking the reins, someone who didn’t like to be restrained or told what to do. It reflected on his behavior with the rest of the Scouts: unwilling to cooperate and play nice, to bend at anyone else’s will but his own. He didn’t really seem like the type to lay back and let someone else take the reins for a change, unless he was prepared to steal them right back whenever he felt like it.

So to see such a visceral reaction on his face, to what should’ve been a bought of light teasing on my part…it was honestly a little shocking.

But that didn’t mean I didn’t like it.

“You would like doing that, Levi?” I didn’t even try to make my voice sound alluring this time; it was simply a question, as I leaned in closer to his face. “You wouldn’t mind being…treated like that?”

His cheeks turned red as he responded in a low voice, diverting his eyes from mine. “It doesn’t have to be too involved, brat. Just…a little bondage wouldn’t hurt.”

Bondage, huh? The word felt strange along my tongue, and I could’ve sworn I saw Levi suck in a breath when I said it out loud. “So, if I wanted to try that out with you, but with you as the one being tied up instead of me…would you say yes?”

It felt strange, having such an intimate conversation out in the open like this. Sure, we were in the safety of his office, with no one able to barge in on us and ruin the moment. But still, it was a little weird. Usually we didn’t have these kinds of conversations until we got to the bedroom… But apparently for as something as serious as this, it had to be discussed beforehand.

It only made me realize just how much I still didn’t know about sex and what it involved—especially after the previous year, since I had a bit of catching up to do.

Whatever. We can do all of that at our own pace. There’s no need to rush any of it, right?

Levi cleared his throat once more, before raising his head to look me in the eye. His hands found mine against his lap, and his voice was no more than a growl as he gave me his answer.

“…Sure, brat. Whatever you say.”

|~|

It took another couple of conversations in his office over the next few days, to make sure we were both set and ready on what we’d agreed to do. Limits were set—for instance, Levi insisted on no roughhousing, like hard spanking, choking, or slapping. There would be plenty of chances to do all of that, once we were more comfortable with the idea. For now, it would just be a little experiment between us, to explore and figure out what we both wanted from each other in this new environment. Nothing too serious; just two lovers relieving some stress, and adding a little spice to their sex life.

Finally, at the end of the week, and once the two of us had finished up our respective paperwork (and some of Hanji’s, that had been mysteriously placed on my desk during the day), we settled into Levi’s bedroom with the door locked behind us. I hadn’t bothered to change into pajamas, opting to lose my jacket and boots instead. Levi had already taken his cravat off, unbuttoning the first couple buttons on his shirt before taking a seat on the edge of the bed.

“Communication is key,” he reminded me for the hundredth time today alone. “Let me know if you feel uncomfortable, and we’ll stop right away. If you feel nervous or scared, we can stop at any time, and—”

“Levi,” I grabbed his hands and held them close, thumbing his knuckles gently, “I promise, I’ll let you know if I get uncomfortable. But I don’t think I will,” I added, and he only rolled his eyes. “Besides, shouldn’t I be asking you the same thing? You’re the one who’s going to be tied up.”

But he only shrugged, before reclining down on the surface of the bed. “I think I can handle myself. It’s you I’m worried about. You’re not exactly experienced with being in control, you know.”

“Oh, and whose fault is that?” I leaned down beside him on the bed, brushing his bangs away from his forehead. “You never let me take the reins like this before, so how am I supposed to know what to do?”

He remained silent, but the way his thumb brushed along the scar on my cheek told me everything I needed to know. I leaned down to kiss him, cradling his head with my hands, before sitting up and throwing one leg over his lap.

“Are you sure you’re comfortable with this, Levi?”

His hands were warm against my hips, sliding up the hem of my shirt as he spoke, “I promise, brat, I’ll be fine. As long as you are.”

My chest swelled at his words, and for a moment I wanted to cry. Not yet, I reminded myself just in time. You can do that later. Right now, it’s all about the two of you.

“Where did you put the restraints?”

“In the drawer.”

At the small jerk of his head, I reached into the top drawer of his nightstand and pulled out the restraints: a pair of leather straps from a spare set of ODM gear, worn over the years but obviously cleaned well. They were softer than the usual leather straps we wore, which made me feel a bit better about using them. I didn’t want Levi to get hurt, or to be left with burn marks around his wrists.

I pulled him in for another kiss, as I made quick work of the buttons on his shirt. Within moments, he was shirtless and sprawled out against the mattress, midnight tresses splayed against the pillows. He placed one wrist against the headboard, silently motioning for me to tie him up.

“Don’t make it too tight,” he reminded me, as I slipped the leather through the loops. “But don’t make it too loose. You don’t want me breaking out of them, do you?”

The thought made me shiver. What could he possibly do to me, if he ripped through those restraints like it was nothing? Perhaps it depended on what I did to him before that happened. My cheeks flushed with heat as I thought of his arms flexing as the leather bands snapped with a sharp tug. He probably could break free from them, no matter how tight I tied them, if he really wanted to.

Once the leather was secured around one wrist, I looped the leather through the bars of the headboard and tied the rest around his other wrist. He gave me a nod as I slipped two fingers under each wrist, making sure his skin had enough room to breathe. I didn’t want to end up cutting his blood flow and bruising him, or anything like that.

“Do you remember the safe words?”

“Of course I do.”

“Repeat them back to me.”

I smiled, albeit a bit shyly, as I recited, “Red for stop, green for go, and yellow for slow down.” He nodded, obviously pleased with my memory. “Can you still move your hands around? They’re not too tight, are they?”

“No, it’s fine.” Maybe it was a trick of the candlelight, but I could’ve sworn I saw his cheeks turn pink. “…Well, what are you waiting for? Strip.”

I couldn’t hold back my laugh as I unbuttoned my shirt. So impatient, isn’t he? “What, you don’t want to be the only one who’s undressed over here?”

I slid my shirt down my shoulders and dropped it to the floor, right beside Levi’s. I pushed myself off his lap just for a moment, to wriggle out of my pants and push them to the side, as well. When I was finished and left in just my bra and panties, I threw my leg over his hips, slowly lowering myself into his lap.

He said nothing as I pressed my hips into his; already I could feel the outline of his cock, semi-hard against the fabric of his trousers. But the blush on his face was much more pronounced, assuring me that he was, in fact, liking this so far. I leaned down to his face, hands pressed against the planes of his chest, as I lowered my mouth to the shell of his ear.

“It’s a little sad, not having your hands on me. I bet you miss it too, don’t you, captain?”

He went rigid beneath me, growling low in his throat as I kissed his neck. The taste of his skin was so sweet against my tongue, his warmth sending shivers along my arms and legs. As gently as I could, I bucked my hips into his—and he groaned against my ear, hissing my name through his teeth.

“Mia.”

My eyes flew open. Oh, how I loved hearing that word fall from his lips.

“Levi,” I raised myself off of him, trailing a finger down his cheek and over his mouth, “can I put the cravat on now?”

His silver eyes glinted in the candlelight. “Sure.”

The white cravat, the one I’d made for him for his birthday a couple years ago, was resting on the nightstand beside his bed. Yet another thing we’d talked about, over the last few days. The thought of him not being able to touch me, not being able to see me—it was supposed to make him incredibly sensitive to everything around him.

He didn’t object as I slid the cravat around the back of his head, tying it off as gently as I could. But before I pulled the fabric over his eyes, I gave him another soft kiss on the lips. The message was clear between us: See you soon.

The fabric slid over his eyes—and suddenly he was completely at my mercy.

I grazed my fingers along his chest, savoring the sudden intake of breath and slight tremble that greeted me. I kissed his throat, pressing my nose to his neck and inhaling that sweet pine and peppermint scent of his. He groaned softly at the contact, hips jerking up ever so slightly.

Huh, I guess I was right about the sensitive part. He’s much more responsive than he usually is…

I slid my fingers down the length of his chest, over his abdomen and down to the waistband of his pants. As much as I wanted to take my time, I knew both of us were going to get needy if I didn’t move it along. So I slipped my fingers down to the zipper of his pants, brushing my fingers along the outline of his cock.

“Shit,” he hissed as I slid his pants down to his ankles. His cock was straining against his boxers, even more so when I reached down to palm him through the black fabric.

He twisted his hands, jerking them forward—and suddenly the headboard rattled, the wood creaking in protest as the leather straps bit against the bars.

“Fuck,” he whispered, so softly I thought I’d imagined it. “Sorry, sweetheart. Just… I didn’t expect that.”

I could already feel the heat spreading down from my face to my neck. “I-it’s okay, it happens…” It was sweet that he felt the need to apologize in the first place; I had to remember, this was new to both of us. While Levi might have been experienced with this bondage thing beforehand, he wasn’t used to being tied up and subdued like this.

A chill swept down the length of my spine. His little tug at the restraints, while it didn’t scare me as much as it caught me off guard, made quick work of reminding me just how strong he truly was. He was strong enough to slice out a Titan’s nape with one clean stroke of his blades; strong enough to lift me into his arms and pin me against the wall if he wanted to.

With how much time I’d spent with him, it always slipped my mind at how powerful he actually was. And to think, I had this powerful man at my mercy, below me on the bed, giving me everything he was and trusting me not to break him.

And I loved him—every single bit of him.

I loved the way he held his teacups when he sat across from me in the mess hall. I loved the way he tied a white cloth around his head whenever he cleaned to keep the dust out of his hair. I loved his silver eyes, with the faintest tinge of blue, so sharp and yet so beautiful. I loved the feeling of his hands on my skin, his tongue against the shell of my ear. I loved the way he spoke my name, the way he smiled at me when no one else was looking.

And he loved me, for everything I was, and everything I would be.

“Levi,” it was a struggle to keep my voice from quivering, “I’m going to take these off, okay?”

He nodded as I trailed my fingers along the waistband of his boxers. I pulled them down in one swift movement, and I could already feel my mouth watering at the sight of his cock, hard and flushed with a bright shade of red. He hissed when I wrapped my fingers around the shaft, before smearing my thumb against the bead of silvery fluid that gathered at the head.

He cursed under his breath as I slid my hand up and down, slowly jerking him off just the way he liked. Once or twice I could see his back arch off the mattress, as he leaned into my touch. But he kept himself calm, for the most part; his moans were controlled, save for the occasional whimper that made my legs tremble.

“Levi,” his whole body jolted slightly as I settled in between his thighs, “I want your cock in my mouth. Now.”

He made no move to stop me as I slid my mouth over him, taking him in as deep as I could. He gave a gentle tug on the leather straps, his heaving chest already slick with sweat.

My fingers thrummed with pleasure as I took him further down my throat, savoring the weight of his cock against my tongue. I blinked up at him, and I couldn’t help but smile when I saw his lips parted slightly, his head thrown back against the pillows. I pulled up just a bit, enough to wrap my lips around the tip of his cock and suck—and this time he whined my name, arching his back off the bed completely.

“Mia…” The leather straps rattled against the bars of the headboard; his muscular thighs clenched around my head. “Fuck—sweetheart, don’t tease—”

My lips strung up in a smirk. How can I argue when he’s begging like that?

I bobbed my head up and down, running my hands along whatever I couldn’t fit into my mouth. His stomach tightened, his thighs closed around my head. I could feel my eyes roll into the back of my skull when my nose brushed against that little patch of black hair, sitting directly above the base of his cock.

“Levi,” I moaned out his name as I pulled away just for a bit, my hand already slick with spit and precum, “please, cum for me. Cum for me, captain.”

His thighs trembled around my head. Breathless moans and whimpers send shivers down my spine. Once glance up at his face, eyes still covered by that cravat and wrists still secured above his head, and suddenly I wanted to destroy him.

I wanted to make him feel as good as he’d always made me feel. I wanted him to crush my head with his thighs, reminding me of the raw power that resided within his body. I wanted him to scream my name out into the night, so that everyone nearby would know just who had made him feel like this.

So I picked up the pace, letting the tip of his cock brush the back of my throat with every thrust, as his cries and whimpers fueled me on.

A low growl filled the air as he came, cock twitching against my tongue as he spilled his release down my throat. I pulled away just enough to breathe, before licking the remains of his cum from both my lips and the tip of his cock. He was panting hard below me, a thin line of drool leaking from the corner of his mouth.

I couldn’t help but snicker as I leaned over him again, tugging the cravat above his eyes once more. “Was that okay?”

His cheeks were flushed, his brow lined with sweat and his chest heaving against my own. He flexed his fingers, making sure he could still move them beneath the straps, before meeting my gaze with a half-smile.

“More than okay.” His voice was a bit raspy as he spoke, and he hummed softly when I pressed my palm to his cheek. “Not bad, for a first timer.”

I only rolled my eyes, thumbing the slip of fabric wrapped around his wrists. I wanted to keep going, to see if I could handle anything more tonight. A thousand possibilities ran through my head at once, each one of them sending a thrill right down to my core. One in particular that stuck in my mind was of myself seated in Levi’s lap, rocking back and forth as I rode him as hard as I could, all while his hands were still bound above his head.

But I knew it wasn’t a good idea to push myself, especially on our first night of doing something new like this. And besides, Levi needed me now. I had to take care of him, just as he’d always done for me.

The straps loosened beneath my fingers, and once they were off, I placed them on the edge of the nightstand beside the bed. Levi’s hands found my face at once, drawing me in for a soft and gentle kiss; he didn’t even seem to care that there were still traces of his cum lingering on my tongue.

“You’re probably soaked, aren’t you?”

I could feel my cheeks heating up at his words, so quiet I barely heard them through the darkness. So what if my panties were a little damp? So what if they were starting to cling to my skin? It always happened whenever I sucked him off; I couldn’t help it anymore.

“Tch, just as I thought,” he mumbled with a smile, his hands circling around to my thighs. “Come here. I want to try something.”

His silver eyes were pleading as he gazed up at me, fingertips digging into the meat of my thighs. He motioned upwards with his chin, before bringing his mouth to my ear.

“I want you to sit on my face, sweetheart.”

I didn’t have the strength to disobey him, even if I wanted to. The light throbbing in my clit spurred me on, desperate for the heat of his touch. My body moved on its own accord, climbing up the length of his body until I was hovering above his face, with my hands wrapped around the bars of the headboard, and my knees caging his head against the soft pillows.

My panties were hanging from one ankle, pressed into the bed as he pulled me close to his face. I shivered when I felt the first lick, his tongue ghosting over my most sensitive parts. My hands trembled against the headboard, his hands froze on my thighs at once.

“I’m okay,” I whispered, gazing down at him and fuck he looked sexy pinned between my thighs like that. “I’m alright, I promise.”

Slowly, he lowered me down onto his face, his nose brushing against my clit. He gave my skin another soft lick, before diving in fully and lapping at my sex.

A part of me was scared I would crush him, that I would suffocate him and hurt him if I stayed here for too long. But his hands were firm around my thighs, keeping me locked in place. Besides, he knew his own strength; if he needed to breathe, he would lift me off himself, before going right back in. And sure enough, I could feel his hands working beneath my thighs, slowly raising me up so he could gasp for breath.

“So good,” he moaned, his lips slick with my juices, “so fucking good…”

I moaned when he brought be back down on his face, licking and sucking and practically burying his face into my sex. My thighs clenched around his head; briefly I wondered if he enjoyed the feeling, just as I loved it whenever he had his thighs around my head.

My hips bucked against his face as he wrapped his lips around my clit, giving it a gentle suck. I gasped for breath, clutching the bars of the headboard so tight I thought my hands would burst. My hair fell over my shoulders, already damp with sweat. His name was the only word I knew, as he flicked his tongue against that sensitive bundle of nerves.

“Levi,” I moaned over and over again, grinding my hips into his face, “Levi, Levi—please, captain—make me cum…”

His nails pressed into the skin of my thighs; his tongue was hot and insistent against my clit, quickly working me towards my release. Tears gathered in my eyes, the headboard rattled as I clawed at it, silently begging for this man to take me in any way he saw fit, to make me cum on his face in the most primal way possible.

“Levi—Levi!”

My whole world shattered around me; pure pleasure seared through my veins as he sucked on my clit as hard as he could. I rocked my hips back and forth, tossing my head back as I rode his face, his name falling from my lips like a prayer.

“Levi,” I whispered, and he stared up at me with those beautiful silver eyes, with his lips still wrapped around my clit, “I love you.”

It was the truth, plain and simple. I loved this man with all my heart, for everything he was and for everything he did for me. No one knew me quite like he did; no one could make me as happy or excited as he did, no one could make me cum as hard as he could. No one else could read me like he could, know my strengths and weaknesses inside and out, or care about me in the same way he could.

I love him. I love him.

I love you, Levi.

And the look in his eyes told me everything at once—I love you, too.

The two of us slowly untangled ourselves from each other, limbs sweaty and strained, with every muscle in our bodies burning. When we were both seated on the bed, Levi pulled me in for another kiss, his hands twisted in my damp hair. Slowly, I brought one of his hands to my face to kiss his wrist, gently rubbing where the leather had been wrapped around it.

Aftercare was always important to us, but more so now than it usually was. He had allowed himself to be vulnerable in front of me, allowed me to tie him up and take away his sight, even if it was just for a little while. He had trusted me to take care of him—and that sort of trust didn’t go away once the sex was over. I was determined to keep it for as long as I could, to cherish him in all the ways he deserved.

Slowly but surely, the two of us made it into the bathroom, where the tub was waiting for us. Levi always preferred taking showers to baths, but for right now, neither of us were in the mood to stand. It didn’t take long for the tub to fill up with water, and once it did, the two of us climbed in together, sitting directly across from each other.

“That was…fun.”

He scoffed lightly, the hint of a smile on his face as I leaned down to kiss his wrists again. “You think so? Is it something you’d ever do again?”

“Absolutely.” I kissed my way up his arm, slowly inching closer to him in the bath. “Maybe next time you can be the one to tie me up.”

“Don’t get ahead of yourself, brat,” he scolded me, but the twinkle in his eyes said different. “I don’t want you to push yourself.”

He’s right—move at your own pace. No need to rush anything, right?

The two of us soaked in the bath for what felt like forever: washing each other’s hair, kissing each other’s mouths and necks and foreheads, until I found myself sitting against his body, with his chest pressed against my back.

I trailed my finger down the length of his arm, before sliding my palm directly against his own.

“…Thank you, Levi,” the words felt unusually thick in my throat, “for everything.”

Those were the same words I’d said to him the first time we’d had sex, just a few years ago, in this very room. I’d been so overwhelmed with love and affection for this man that I’d completely blanked on what else to say. And it seemed I was going through something similar right now, as there weren’t enough words in the world to tell him just how grateful I was for him stepping into my life when he had.

He’d been with me through everything—losses, expeditions, personal triumphs—and not once had he ever left my side. He was here to stay, no matter what life threw at us next.

Silently, he slid his hand around my shoulders, cradling the back of my neck with his palm before turning my head to face him. His lips were warm against my skin, soft and gentle as he pressed a trail of kisses down the length of my throat, each one a promise of love in their own right—and a promise to stay with me until the very end.

“You’re welcome, sweetheart.”

[halcyonstorm]

my contest submission for LH drabble week! @levihan-drabbles

Fandom: Shingeki no Kyojin | Attack on Titan Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Relationships: Levi Ackerman/Hange Zoë, Levi Ackerman & Hange Zoë Characters: Levi Ackerman, Hange Zoë, Kuchel Ackerman Additional Tags: Sick Levi Ackerman, Leukemia, Childhood Friends, Friends to Lovers, Alternate Universe - High School, Alternate Universe - College/University, Car Accidents, Doctor Hange Zoë, Angst, Slight OOC, sorry Series: Part 9 of Short Fics Summary:

Hange and Levi were separated for several years for reason they couldn't help. They finally found each other.

At just 18 years old, Levi received the worst news of his life. He was sick. Extremely sick. If someone even coughed or breathed on him, he could die. He had leukemia, a disease which attacks the body’s white blood cells. Our white blood cells are our guardians, protecting us from any infection that dares to enter. He had one friend he wanted to tell the most: his best friend Hange. She had been his friend since the beginning of high school. He didn’t like her at first, but she kept showing up, eager to be his friend. He eventually warmed up to her, allowing her to sit with him at lunch, hang out after class; soon, they were inseparable.

Levi’s heart was in his throat as he mentally prepared to present the life-changing news to his best friend. “Hange, I have to tell you something,” he said, his voice trembling. Hange looked at him funny. He never spoke in such a strange manner before. Hange hesitantly sat in front of him at the empty desk, turning around in the chair to face him.

“What is it?” She asked, concerned. She was starting to get nervous.

“I’m sick,” he began, almost inaudibly. “I have leukemia… I am gonna have to leave school to be in the hospital. I get so weak, and my immune system is absolute shit… I can’t even risk getting a cold, otherwise I can die.”

Hange’s heart sunk into her stomach. She took a deep breath and looked into her lap. She had to be strong for Levi, and she knew that. 

“I’ll be here with you. We can text, call, facetime…”

“Yeah, we can,” he replied.

“We will! I’m your friend,” Hange said, grabbing his hand. “There’s no way in hell I’m leaving you behind.”

-

At first, Levi thought he’d be strong enough to withstand the chemotherapy. That he’d be the rare case to have no side effects. Boy, was Levi wrong. After his first two weeks, his health was tanking. It tanked so bad, in fact, that no one was allowed in the room except the doctors and nurses. Hange was one of the only people to call him daily besides his mom. Hange would Facetime him after class, telling him all about her day. Levi never had much to share from his monotonous days of drug infusions and immobilizing fatigue, but he enjoyed listening to Hange’s voice. Over time, Hange began to notice her friend change: His skin became ghostly pale and his words were mumbled. She would show him the blooming flowers in the spring, the fallen leaves in the autumn, the snow in the winter. She would show him anything to distract him from the excruciating pain he suffered each day. 

After a year of chemotherapy treatments, the toxins started to take a toll on his body. He’d find clumps of black hair on his pillow every morning, until one night he insisted his mother shave it all off. Each clump of hair reminded him of the life he should’ve had. Going to class in-person instead of online for the rest of the semester, graduating through a computer screen. He fucking hated it. His physical and mental state began to worsen each week. He was like a walking corpse, sleeping about 16 hours each day. When he was awake, he was wishing he was asleep. Each day he withered away in the hospital bed. He would miss Hange’s calls frequently due to his concerningly deep slumbers. If he managed to pick up, he would fall asleep on the phone with her. Despite her busy school schedule, she found time to text him every day. That is what kept him going.

Every day turned into once a week, which turned into once a month, and soon not at all. He had officially lost touch with the only friend in his life. He felt it was his fault: he had no energy to ever respond to her texts. He couldn’t blame her. She did try. Alone in his hospital room staring at his old texts from her, his heart ached and tears spilled down his face.

Another year had passed when his doctor came into his shabby hospital room with a look of hope. Levi felt his heart begin to race. 

“Levi, we have some good news and some bad news,” He began, shutting the door behind him. He wore a bright yellow gown with a blue face mask and latex gloves. “The good news is, your white blood cell levels are elevated. This is an improvement compared to last month’s tests. Since they’re higher, you’re well enough to receive a bone marrow transfusion from your mother, who’s a perfect match. The bad news is, there are many risks to having this transfusion. Your body can reject the bone marrow, which may cause massive complications. However, I think it is best for you to get the transplant. It is your best hope for overcoming this disease.”

With no hesitation, Levi agreed. Let’s do this thing.

He tried to reach out to Hange to tell her the news, but after a week with no response, he was disheartened. A part of him hoped she would respond. He had his family, and for that he was forever grateful, but who would he have once he left the hospital? Who would he talk to? Who would he be? He completely lost the miniscule amount of social skills he had. He did make friends with some of the patients on his floor. Unfortunately, he outlived most of them. 

Fortunately for Levi, the transplant was a success. Within the next few months, he began to regain the color in his face, and hair started to sprout on his head again. He was sleeping less frequently, he was finally able to do a lap around the hospital floor without getting too tired. He was still on chemotherapy, but he was regaining his strength, and more importantly, he was getting his life back.

Levi was in (and rarely out of) the hospital almost four years. The day he was discharged for good was a beautiful spring day. The stale air became fresh as he exited the hospital in a wheelchair. He heard the bright green trees rustling and saw some beautiful pink flowers that reminded him of Hange. He took everything for granted until he was cooped up in a hospital room for years. He was grateful to Hange for being his eyes to the outside world. He felt a breeze run through his buzz cut. He took a deep breath, tears helplessly streaming down his face. He was finally free. 

It wasn’t long before Levi started searching for his long lost friend. He hated himself for forgetting how to spell her name. Was it Hanje, Hangi, or Hange? He couldn’t quite remember. He searched her name and was shocked to find out Hange was a medical student practicing at Shinganshina General Hospital. Shinganshina General wasn’t far, so she must still live in the area. He couldn’t, however, find any of her social media accounts. She was off-the-grid. Great… he thought. She was always difficult. He was one to talk, though. He hasn't used social media in years.

Throughout the summer, Levi was able to land a job as a mechanic and he worked endlessly. He had to repay the debt he placed his parents in. His mother especially hated the idea of him working just as he finished his treatments, but Levi was persistent. Eventually, he saved enough money to send monthly deposits to his mom and move out. He couldn’t have his mom taking care of him anymore after all she sacrificed for him. He had made enough money on his own to afford a cheap apartment two blocks away from her house. 

After getting settled, Levi told himself he couldn’t begin college without knowing about Hange’s whereabouts. He decided maybe if he drove to Shinganshina city, he would be able to find her somehow. Someone ought to know her… He got in his car one evening, punched in a diner’s address in Shinganshina, and started to drive. As he drove, he started to realize his plan was stupid. What, am I gonna stalk her at the hospital?

 After finishing a 10-hour shift at the shop, he impulsively drove past his block and hit the highway. The highways were ruthless that Friday night. He had never been to Shinganshina before on his own. He drove, hovering his head over the steering wheel with his elbows tightly tucked to his sides. The speed limit signs read “65 MPH''; however, everyone was quickly steering around him, going way over 75. He was very tempted to turn around in spite of his impetuous road trip; but he couldn’t find an opportunity to do so.

On the other side of the road, the two lines merged into one. One of the drivers did not recognize this, and suddenly swerved onto the other side of the road where Levi was driving. Perhaps if Levi didn’t work so hard that day, there was a slight chance it could’ve been avoidable. The last thing he saw were bright fluorescent headlights before he was knocked unconscious.

-

“We checked his driver’s license. His name is Levi Ackerman, age 22, victim of a head-on vehicle collision. He was wearing his seatbelt and had an airbag. He may have suffered a SCI and concussion. His heart and lung sounds are normal although his sternum and ribs may be broken,” A paramedic announced as they wheeled the unconscious man through the glass doors of the emergency room. 

“Get him up to imaging. We need to do a MRI, CAT scan, and x-ray STAT!” the doctor replied, taking her stethoscope to listen to his chest. She recognized the man right away but allowed her feelings to be suppressed for that crucial moment. Of course she recognized this man. He was her long lost friend, after all.

After finishing the tests, Levi was brought to a hospital room where he was changed into a hospital gown. Dr. Hange Zoe and Dr. Erwin Smith discussed the results: MRI showed signs of a concussion; CAT scan showed no signs of hemorrhaging; x-ray showed a cracked sternum and ribs 4 and 5 were broken. No signs of broken extremities, however he presented with ecchymosis on the bony prominences, such as his hips, knees, and collarbones.

As Levi awoke about two hours later, groaning loudly.

“My chest!” he complained, finding it hard to move. The two doctors turned around to find the patient had regained consciousness.

“Hello, Levi,” Dr. Smith began. “You were in a car accident. You’re at Shinganshina General Hospital. I am Dr. Erwin Smith, and this is my intern, Dr. Hange Zoe.” Levi’s eyes widened when he announced her name. 

“H-Hange…” he whispered, attempting to sit up but failing. Dr. Smith placed his hand gingerly on his shoulder.

“You don’t have to sit up. Just relax. How is your pain? We can give you some medication.”

“It’s fucking horrible. Please,” He whimpered, grimacing. Dr. Smith nodded, leaving the room. Hange immediately grabbed a chair, sitting next to her patient, but more importantly her friend.

“Levi, dammit what happened?” She said softly, looking at him. His face was not scratched, it was just the rest of his body that was injured.

“What happened to you?!” He retorted, looking her in the eyes. She could tell he was hurt, not just physically. “So much for not losing you...” 

“I was texting you as much as I could, Levi,” she explained, feeling guilty. “I had lost my phone and got a new one, but I couldn’t remember your number. I tried to find you online but I couldn’t… I am so sorry.” She hesitantly grabbed his hand. He didn’t flinch or pull away, but he squeezed her hand.

“I was too sick to reply,” he said. “I’m sorry too.”

“It’s not-” A knock rang on the door and Hange stood up almost on cue. 

“On a scale of 0-10, 0 being no pain and 10 being the worst pain you’ve ever felt, how would you rate your pain?” She asked, switching the topic.

“A big fat 10,” he groaned. Dr. Smith wheeled in an electronic machine with a wire and handle attached.

“This is a patient-controlled analgesia pump. You can push it as many times as you���d like to help alleviate your pain. You will not overdose since it has a set amount of medication you can receive per hour. Also, we have some acetaminophen for you.” Levi downed the pills as soon as it was handed to him. Dr. Smith hooked the tubing up to his IV and handed him the button.

“Hange, gather your information on your patient and then meet with me in the conference room.” Dr. Smith left the room, Hange hesitantly looking at her friend again.

“Let me just do a quick physical assessment,” she muttered to herself, grabbing her pen light. As she did her assessment, he admired her. Being a doctor really did suit her. She was wearing a white lab coat with her name embroidered into it. As she would move his gown around to assess his heart and lung sounds, his breath hitched when he felt the tips of her fingers touch his bruised chest. He looked at her face as she worked. She simultaneously looked the same and different. Different in how she wore her hair, in the shape of her glasses, and she stood taller, more confidently. Same in her eyes never losing their sparkle, her focused pouty face, as well as her smile. That breathtaking smile never changed.

Once she finished, she cleaned off her materials and tucked them away.

“Levi, you’ll be kept at the hospital overnight to monitor your heart on the EKG. If you are able to walk in the morning, you will be discharged. Do you have anyone you can call?”

He thought of his mother. He thought of the burden he crushed her with. He decided to deal with this on his own.

“I live alone,” he replied, looking towards the foot of the bed.

“I can stay with you,” She offered instantly. Levi’s face flushed as he met her eyes. “I-I mean… if you want! You have a concussion. You can’t drive yourself or be left alone.”

“Isn’t that like… against the rules?”

“...I am not working tomorrow. I can pick you up and we’ll go from there. Since you won’t be in the hospital for long, I don’t think it’ll be an issue.” The corners of Levi’s mouth curled upwards.

“That is fine with me. Let’s do it.”

The next day, Levi was able to do a lap around the hospital floor. He walked around with one of the nurses to make sure he didn’t collapse. He was ready to go home. Correction: He was ready to go home with Hange.

Hange went to his hospital room in her normal clothes. Her style changed. She used to wear baggy t-shirts and jeans. She looked more mature in her white button-up top and black slacks. He had to prevent his mouth from opening when he saw her. She was beautiful, but of course he would never mention it. Hange walked down to the entrance of the hospital with the nurse and Levi. She went to get her car. A few minutes later, she arrived in her dark red Honda.

“Levi, you just have to direct me to your house…” She began, tapping at the car’s GPS. He gave the address and she punched it in.

“Hange? Why are you doing this for me?” He asked, almost by accident. She shifted the car into Drive.

“I… never stopped thinking about you, you know,” She began, driving away from the hospital. “Even though we lost touch, I still hoped to meet you again someday. You are the reason I wanted to be a doctor… and whenever I lost hope, I thought of you. Whether you know it or not, you pushed me to keep going.” He looked at her blushing face.

He was shocked by what she said. He felt the same. “Me too,” he confessed, looking in his lap. “Your calls saved my life. You were the only one who stuck around. I will never forget that.”

He was never one to say what he meant, but knowing he had the courage to speak those words to her, Hange felt a strong urge to kiss his lips. She always had feelings for him. Her feelings never changed, despite their time apart. In fact, it only confirmed her feelings for him even more.

“Even before I was hospitalized, I took everything for granted…” Levi said. “I have been wanting to tell you something ever since my diagnosis…” Hange felt her heart skip a beat as he spoke. 

“Thank you for being there for me.”

At the red light, Hange looked at him and squeezed his hand firmly. She noticed his cheeks were dusted with a red blush. 

“I’ll always be here for you.” 

He met her eyes, those radiant hazel eyes. He took advantage of the long stoplight to kiss the woman’s lips. He couldn’t contain his feelings anymore. He swore he’d tell her how much he meant to him one of these days. And God, her lips were soft and velvety and everything he’d imagined they’d be, but ten times better. She was shocked at first, but kissed him back. His lips were a little chapped from his rough night, but they were warm. She dreamt of this moment for years (as did he). It was better than how she thought it’d be too. She was intrigued by the quiet boy in school ever since she met him. Maybe she thought he’d lack passion, but it was the opposite. The kiss was full of passion and relief; after years of being in love with each other from a distance, they melted into each other. Suddenly, there was a beep behind her; the light had turned green. Hange chuckled, starting to drive again.

“You don’t even know how long I’ve been wanting to do that.”

[lilred8220]

Well, yet another fic no one asked for😃

I wanted to write this because some time go, I was watching the fireworks when this song started to play↓↓↓

And I just thought how romantic it would be if I wasn't forever alone 🙃 so, I build a story around that. I hope you enjoy it!

P.s. This is a F!MC

--

I had been so excited for this day! In the human realm, my hometown this time of year had a huge festival ending with a huge firework show. I had asked to go a week in advance but due to being in the Devildom for the exchange program, I couldn't go. It definitely was a disappointment. However Diavolo, seeing me upset and now curious about the tradition, asked all about it and he thought it sounded fun. Thanks to him always wanting to do anything new, he immediately decided to do the same here in the Devildom.

So through the long week, he asked about everything we would do at the event to make it much more fun and quickly get everything ready to make this last second festival. It somehow all came together and it feels almost exactly like the festival from the human realm. The food, sweets and all! Now it was the time to enjoy the festival!

The brothers couldn't understand why I was so excited for this. Though we all went to festivals and saw fireworks, It was just something that I would always look forward to this time of the year and it's just more special this time around. It kinda feels as if I'm sharing something that I love with everyone I care about in a place where I like to call my new home. Hopefully they'll come to enjoy this as much as I do.

"So, this is called an Elephant ear?“ Beel asked, drooling at the large fried sweet in front of him.

I laugh, as I grab a piece before he can scarf the treat whole, "Yeah, it's just fried dough with powdered sugar on it. They usually sell these at any carnival or festival." I pop the elephant ear in my mouth, savoring the amazing taste.

The brothers each had something to eat as we took a break from all the festival games littered around. We all take two picnic benches for the 8 of us, well, us and Beel's giant pile of food he got. Everyone had won something from the games…well everyone but me and Mammon. Mammon was determined to win a game, yet his luck seemed to be the worse for wear today and all the games we'd gone to all ended up with one of the other brothers winning the game. My luck honestly wasn't any better due to playing the same games that the others had won.

"I'm telling ya! Those games are rigged! The people runnin 'em are just a bunch of con artists!“ Mammon yells, clearly frustrated that he hasn't gotten anything.

"Or maybe you just suck lol" Levi says, holding a Ruri-chan plush to his chest.

"Honestly, you really shouldn't be surprised, you were pretty terrible at all those games since you had no choice but to play fair." Satan adds on, which all the brothers nod in agreement.

Asmo laughs, "Well, what do you expect from a scumbag?"

I start to get annoyed as the brothers all start to bash on Mammon. He seems fine on the surface but I've been around him long enough, with him basically living in my room and all, to see all his little ticks. Like when he's excited, his hand gestures are more dramatic, to emphasize his point or how his eyes light up when something catches his attention, like something to make a quick buck. However, right now, with the way his mouth slightly twitches and his hand shoved into his pockets, he's upset. He really only does this when the brothers throw insult after insult at him, like right now.

I sigh as they continue their assault on him. But an idea comes to mind and it'll be easy enough to pull off.

"Does...that all that stuff apply to me too? Since I didn't win anything either, after all..." I say, putting on my best pouting face and looking down at the ground.

Immediately, the brothers started to panic, trying to reassure me that it wasn't true, successfully drawing their attention away from Mammon. I slightly looked up, passed the frantic brothers to lock eyes with Mammon. He stood there for a moment, a bit confused by my sudden comment. I flash him a quick smirk before looking up at the brothers, accepting their apologies. The brothers seemed to relax and drop the topic after that, returning to the food they have. Mammon, who had seemingly understood what my intentions really were, looked at me, with his face slightly flushed, then stared down at his food.

In Mammon's mind, he honestly doesn't know what force sent Y/N here but, she is honestly the best thing that has ever happened to him. At first, he hated the idea of being her guardian due to all of the extra work he was given. But, as days turned to weeks, her treatment towards him was nothing but sweet and loving. It honestly was a huge adjustment for him, since everyone treated him like scum or useless, having her place so much faith in him, even defending him and doing little gestures like this, it makes his head spin. He honestly couldn't pinpoint when it happened, but, his feelings for her drastically changed, he couldn't deny it now, how he longed for her, wanted her all to himself. How he loved her unconditionally.

I smile, quickly finish eating my food then stand up, "Ok! Time to get back to the games!“ I say, excitedly.

"Y/N, I'm glad you are excited but some of us still need to eat." Lucifer says, glancing at Beel and his mountain of food.

"Awww, come on Lucifer, I wanna try to win something before the fireworks start." I plop down again, putting my chin in my hands.

"Well, I'm sure we'll have plenty of time." Lucifer tries to cheer me up, eating some fries.

Mammon looks up at Y/N, upon seeing her upset. He honestly hated seeing Y/N upset, even if for something so small as to wait for everyone to finish eating. He wanted nothing more than to see her smile everyday, it honestly was one of his favorite parts of the day to see her smile so sweetly. He'll do anything to make her happy. He sits up and scarfs down his food before standing up. "Ok, how 'bout this,' ' Mammon gets up and walks over to me, ' ' since I haven't won anythin', I'm gonna go play some more games and I'll meet ya guys later. Y/N, ya can come if ya want to." Mammon starts to walk away, at a slower pace than he usually would.

"Yeah! Ok!" Before any of the other brothers could protest, I quickly got up and hurried over to Mammon. I can hear the brothers stumbling to get up to follow us.

"Hey! Mammon is stealing Y/N!"

"That's not fair!“

"That scumbag..."

I hear some of the things they're saying as they seem to be trying to catch up.

I grab Mammon's hand and start to make a run for it. "Come on!" I glanced back at Mammon, who seemed shocked. He looks back to see the brothers in hot pursuit of us. Getting the hint, Mammon picks up the pace. We high tail it out of there, laughing like a bunch of kids all the while.

--

Me and Mammon finally stop and I flop on the floor, trying to catch my breath as Mammon puts his hands on his knees.

"I…I think we lost 'em" Mammon pants, out of breath from running around.

"I…I think so…jeez, how…how do you always do this when you get in trouble?“ I wheeze out, my human body not used to running as much as a demon. Especially if that demon is Mammon.

Mammon straightens up, finally catching his breath, "Well, I'm not usually running from ALL of my brothers, just Lucifer mostly."

Mammon reaches his hand to me and after a moment, I let him help me up. He helps me to my feet and when I look up, his face is very close to mine. We stare at each other for a moment before both of our faces turn more flushed than we already were.

His bright blue eyes that have a hint of that golden yellow has me in a trance. When I first met Mammon, it was the first thing that drew my attention, it's honestly something that I always find myself staring at all of the time. They are very beautiful to me and never fail to make me feel relaxed when I see them. But not only that, he is a very handsome man. His rich caramel skin with his pure white hair makes his face stand out even more. He is just so captivating to look at, however his personality is what truly makes him shine. Even if he tries, and fails, to hide his true feelings, he always has his heart on his sleeve, rather if he realizes that or not. He tries so hard to help me or to even make my day brighter when I'm not feeling my best. He even tries to protect his brothers and is always there for them. He honestly is the most caring person I've ever met and I can't help but fall for him because of that.

Mammon looked down at her face, he honestly couldn't help but stare. In his mind, she was more beautiful than anyone he's ever seen. Her beauty not only stopped at her looks but the person she was. She was a true wonder to him, too good to be true yet, here she was, defying all logic. All he wanted to do was look at every detail of her face, her eyes as they shine, her soft skin as the blush covers her face, her parted lips as her breath finally slows down. Mammon was the first to turn away, catching himself now staring at nothing but her lips.

He clears his throat. "W-Well since we're here, let's get to some games!" Mammon says, his fangs flash with his grin.

We made our way to the nearest game booth, both of us looking at the various prizes. The booth in question is a simple ring toss, the bottles are organized by colors which show what size prize you can get. There are the ridiculously large stuffed bears that are taller than me to the very small animal plushies. Scanning all the prizes, one catches my attention, a black plush crow with a yellow tag on it. It was big enough to hold in your arms, it's wings dangled at its sides. It had its beak opened slightly to look like a smile. I glance over at Mammon, who is currently eyeing a plushie of a grimm, that also has a yellow tag hanging off of it. I laugh, thinking of how that plush crow reminded me of him.

Mammon looks at me, slightly confused, "What are ya laughing at?"

"Oh nothing, though I know what prize I want." I smile, looking back at the crow plush.

Mammon follows my eyes over to the plush, he tilts his head at my choice, "Ya sure that's what ya want? There are plenty of things better than that ol' crow."

I nod enthusiastically, "Yeah, I think it's cute, like someone else I know." I playfully push him.

His ears turn a dark red but he laughs, "Well, I know what I want so, let's go and win some prizes!“

We pay the demon running the game and start trying to make the rings reach its mark. However, as in most carnaval games, the rings in question are only slightly bigger than the top of the bottles, making it much harder to win. Not to mention the bottles for the better prizes are further back, making it much harder. As we try a couple times, we don't get much luck and we're running out of grimms to play. However as we reach our last game, even though I end up with nothing, Mammon manages to sink a ring on a yellow bottle.

"We have a winner!“ the demon behind the booth says, walking over to grab the ring.

"Yeah! This was nothin' for the Great Mammon!" Mammon threw his hands in the air, and I cheered with him, "You did it! You won!“

The demon walks back over to us, "Alrighty, you can pick a prize with a yellow tag. Which will it be?"

Mammon's eyes flick to the plush he was eyeing earlier and he goes to speak, but an announcement rings through the speakers all around the festival, "The firework show will be starting in 15 minutes, marking the end of the festival! So hurry and grab a seat to enjoy the show!“ a cheery voice says before the music from before starts to play again. Mammon looks down at me for a moment before a small smile appears on his face.

Mammon looks at the demon and points at the plush crow, "I'll take that one."

I look up at Mammon, "But, I thought you wanted-“ I get cut off by the demon swift return, "Here you go." The demon hands him the crow plush.

Mammon takes the plush from the demon with his usual bright smile and starts walking off, I quickly follow, still confused. Once I catch up, he looks at me with a blush on his face and holds out the crow to me.

"W-well, there wasn't really anythin' I wanted, so I figured I'd get this ol' crow since ya seemed to want it so bad." He says with his usual bravado, yet it was a bit more shy than normal.

"But, you said…" I start to say as I take the plush but, cut my thought short.

Even though I know he wanted something, that much he's been saying all day, he still got me this crow plush. Knowing how he struggles to do these things and becoming a stuttering mess when it's pointed out, I choose to not question him. Yet, I can't help but love him even more, him knowing that I wanted something as well and that he'll be going back home later with nothing. I'll have to repay him later but for now, I'll just enjoy the rest of the festival with him.

I shake my head and give him a smile, one that shows how much I truly appreciate and love him, "Thank you so much, Mammon." I hold the crow close to myself.

Mammon feels all the air in his lungs escape him. Y/N's smile, the sparkle of joy and something more…intimate in her eyes. Honestly, for a split second, he found himself jealous of that crow, seeing Y/N holding it so lovingly. He wanted, no, needed to show her how much he loves her. If not tonight, it'll drive him insane.

--

After looking a bit, me and Mammon found a perfect spot to watch the fireworks. We sat on a hill that was a bit further away from the festival and luckily, we could still hear the music playing from one of the speakers nearby. We sat in a comfortable silence, waiting for the fireworks to begin. Which based on the amount of time it took to find this isolated spot, it should start at any moment.

Mammon is resting his arms on his knees as I sit with my legs crossed, the plush crow close to my chest. I watch all the demons in the distance hurrying to find a spot to watch the show as well. Thankfully, none of them seem to look in this direction. So right now, it's just us, alone.

After a few moments, Mammon looks over at me and shyly starts to speak, "H-hey, Y/N?"

I look back at Mammon, noticing his face slowly forming a blush, "Yes?"

"I…I wanted to tell ya-" Mammon gets cut off by the first firework going off.

We slightly jump, but my eyes widen as the firework show starts, "It's starting!"

I watch as the firework starts to make the usual dark Devildom sky shine bright with many different colors. All the while, a familiar song starts to play on the speakers, making this a moment that I want to treasure always. It was a song from the human realm and it was a song that made this moment feel more intimate. I honestly couldn't ask for a better day, I got to go to the festival with all my favorite people and I even had, dare I say it, a wonderful date with Mammon. The thought of going on a date with Mammon makes my cheeks burn but I truly wish that this day would never end.

Mammon's heart starts to pound in his chest, his gaze never leaving Y/N. He watches as her eyes glow with wonder, watching the fireworks as if it were the first time. She never looked more beautiful, more perfect than right now. If he was ever gonna make his move, it had to be now. Mammon opened his mouth to speak but he couldn't find it in himself to break her trance. However, his greed for her attention, her voice, her touch, for nothing but her, was growing. So, he closes his mouth and takes a deep breath. He leans closer to her as his shaky hand gently touches her cheek to turn her face towards him.

When I suddenly feel a light touch on my face, I snap back to reality. Before I can react, I feel my face being turned and suddenly, Mammon leans in, his eyes close and gently presses his lips on mine, like he's afraid that I'll break. My eyes widen, taking a moment to realize what is happening. Mammon, feeling me not move, starts to move away, most likely worried he did something wrong. But, not wanting to lose the moment, I quickly filled in the space he left, pressing my lips a bit harder than he did. Mammon tenses at my sudden movement but quickly melts into the kiss, holding my face with his hands. I place the plush to the side, momentarily forgotten, I place my hands on his chest for support.

The air stills, the world around us starts to disappear. The only thing to keep us from forgetting the world completely is the sound of fireworks and the song playing so sweetly.

I snake my arms around Mammon's neck, then he takes the chance to pull me in closer by my waist, closing the gap between us. Even though he was nervous at first, he seems to have relaxed, even nips at my bottom lip, causing me to gasp. He swiftly slips his tongue in my mouth, tangling it with mine, deepening the kiss. We held each other close, like we were afraid that the other would vanish.

Needing to breathe, we lean away slightly. I'm not sure when it happened, but I managed to end up on Mammon's lap. Mammon seems to also realize the position we're in and his breath hitches.

His hand comes up and holds my face, "I love ya, Y/N."

My heart flutters and I lean into his touch, "I love you too, Mammon. I…I always have."

"Y/N, I care about ya so much and I…I don't want anyone else trying to steal my most precious treasure from me. The thought of it kills me, because I'm yer first man." Mammon stops, becoming more shy, "I w-want ya to be mine and…I'll be yers…if ya want me."

I feel as though all of the butterflies in my stomach would explode out of me. I can't stop the big smile that appears on my face, "Mammon," I hold his face in my hands, "no one could ever take me away. And not only that but…" I bite my lip, feeling a bit bashful, "You already have me. Now and forever."

If Mammon could, his eyes would have hearts in them. He looked at me with such lovestruck eyes, his face is probably the most peaceful expression I've ever seen. I look back at him in awe, honestly have never seen him so happy, like he's on cloud nine.

A smile is plastered on his face, "I promise that I will be with ya till the end of time. I gotta be the luckiest demon in the whole festival, no, the Devildom. But, I guess I did win something at the festival after all." His smile suddenly turns into a smirk, "What do ya say we go somewhere more private and we can continue…this?"

My face turns red, but I nod. We stand up, I grab my plushie so that we can leave when I suddenly hear someone, or rather, some people, running this way.

"MAMMON!"

We spin around, both of us knowing too well who that voice belongs to. Lucifer and the rest of the brothers are running at full sprint in our direction.

"Oh shit!" Mammon yells out, quickly sweeping me off my feet, making a run for it.

Startled, I grabbed on to Mammon's jacket, making sure to not drop my crow plush, "Ah! M-Mammon!“

He looks down at me, " Well, I might get strung up later, but I'm yer man now. I want ya all to myself and I don't know about ya, but I'm not ready for tonight to end." He flashes his signature smile.

I can't help but laugh, as we make yet another escape from the brothers. This is truly the best day I could have asked for.

[harryssunflowerkiwi]

‘KIWI’ Part 1.

Pairing: Harry Styles x Female Reader

Synopsis: You’re a famous designer. You meet Harry at a party and he is obsessed, but you’re not going to give in so easily.

Word Count: 3.7K

Warnings: Not much for this part! Some sexual undertones.

A/N: hello loves! This is my first fanfic ever and I’m writing it on my phone so please bare with me. If there are any grammar or spelling mistakes I apologize, I will do my best! There will also likely be smut in the next part! And please keep in mind that this is PURE FICTION and is in no way an accurate depiction of Harry Styles! It’s just for entertainment purposes only :) So without further disclaimers, let’s get into part one of a multipart series called ‘KIWI’ very loosely based on Harry’s song. I hope you enjoy, please let me know what you think and be kind xox

🥝Outfits mentioned in this part 🥝

——————————————————————————-

SEPTEMBER 3rd 2020~

You woke up to the sound of ‘dreams’ by Fleetwood Mac blaring from your phone that sat on the glass night stand beside your bed indicating that it was indeed already 6:30AM and therefor the time for you to leave your oh-so comfortable bed. The sun was shining ever so slightly through the crack between the black silk curtains that hung over the large window directly across from your bed, stinging your barely awake eyes. With a bit of hesitation you rolled over to turn off the alarm and swung your bare feet over the side of the bed letting them touch the cold hardwood floor of your bedroom. You made your way to the on suit to pee and brush your teeth. As the icy mint of your toothpaste hit your tounge you looked in the large mirror above the sink, you look tired. Of course you look tired, you’ve been getting three hours of sleep every night for the past month. Your hair is disheveled, no doubt from whoever you had kicked out of your apartment the night before after yet another hookup. You didn’t regret it, of course, you never do. He was a nice guy. Well, he was a decent lay at the very least. And he seemed to enjoy himself too so there’s no harm.

Just as you finished washing your face you heard your phone go off again. “Of course” you thought as you slowly made your way back into your bedroom where you had lazily threw your phone back on your bed before going to bathroom. You picked it up and squinted your eyes slightly to make out the name of the person calling. ‘JEFF AZOFF’. You sighed lightly and pressed answer.

“Jeff It’s not even 7” you said in a somewhat faux dramatic tone.

“oh stop y/n I know you’ve been awake for a bit” he replied and you could practically hear the smirk in his voice.

“What do you want” you sat back down on your bed and placed your left hand under your chin.

“I’m throwing a party at our place tonight and there’s no party without you”. You thought for a minute, knowing you couldn’t actually say no to a party, especially one being thrown by one of your best friends and his fiancé.

After about 30 seconds of silence you signed dramatically and said “You’re absolutely right, I’ll be there at 10 but next time tell me ahead of time. You are aware I have a business to run”.

Most of the morning was spent working through some designs, yelling at people for doing their jobs incorrectly, finalizing some details for London fashion week, and drinking copious amounts of coffee. You stood up from your “desk” (which was really just your kitchen island) with a stretch and looked down at your phone that was sitting on the counter, it was 8:43PM. Deciding that you should probably start getting ready for Jeff’s party, you walked back through your bedroom and into your walk-in closet to pick an outfit. “Alexa play get ready playlist” you yelled through your apartment and shortly after ‘girls in the hood’ started playing through out your apartment at full volume. Fully aware that Jeff’s spontaneous parties are generally pretty casual, after about 10 minutes you landed on your favourite pair of black Levi’s, a baby t that says “nobody’s pussycat”, a pair of black Gucci boots and grabbed your new fuzzy yellow and blue jumper in case you got cold (and also to throw over your shoulders for a bit of colour). Walking back into your bathroom you decided to do your makeup, since you had been working from home today and hadn’t put any on yet. You ended up doing some simple makeup, to not clash with the bright colors on your jumper and let your hair fall in loose curls. By the time you were fully ready it was just past 9:30, which was perfect because Jeff’s place was about a 20 minute drive from your apartment. You put your boots on, grabbed your yellow tinted Gucci glasses, your phone and keys and headed out.

Harry had gotten a very similar from Jeff as you, but it had come the day before. He was excited for the party, it’s been awhile since he’s been out anywhere but the studio. He’s been working on his new album tirelessly. Writing songs this time round was becoming increasingly more difficult, he’s felt dry of inspiration which is partially what he’s hoping a party will help with. Being around some new people and some of his closest friends. Jeff told him he was inviting some of his mates that Harry was yet to meet, which hopefully meant new experience outside the realm of ex girlfriends and band mates. He told Jeff he wouldn’t make it till around 11PM considering he’d be in the studio until 9 and he’d need time to make it home to change and shower before heading over and London traffic was an absolute nightmare, especially on Friday’s. Once he was done at the studio it was half nine, he sighed heavily as he left the lofty studio feeling the heavy weight of the pressure to write new material.

Once Harry arrived to his flat he immediately dropped his keys into the white and blue ceramic bowl he keeps by the door and swiftly kicked off his worn out vans. He was tired, but determined to make some worthy memories if not only for the sake of his future albums. Hell, maybe even just to blow off some steam. He needed that, badly. After making his way up the long spiral shaped stained oak stairs he walked briskly into the bathroom right across from his bedroom. He took his phone out of the back pocket of the light brown sweats he was wearing and glanced at the time 10:03PM. He let out another light sigh before hopping into the large black tiled shower. After a very quick shower filled with worried thoughts of where his career will go if he can’t write music, he hurried himself into his walk in closet with just a blush pink towel wrapped loosely around his hips and his phone in his left hand. Since he was already running slightly behind schedule and Jeff didn’t mention this party being anything but a casual gathering, he grabbed a pair of light blue YSL trousers and a simple white button down blouse to pair with his oh so worn down white vans, simply not having time to fuss about picking a new pair of shoes to match.

By the time Harry arrived at Jeff and Glenne’s flat it was five minutes to eleven. When he pulled up there were already around 10 cars parked around the house, some of which he recognized of course. He made his way up to the large front door after thanking his driver and knocked loudly, his various rings making a light clinking noise against the wood. About thirty seconds later the heavy door swung open to reveal Glenne who smiled widely when she saw him. “H!” She shrieked and pulled him in for a quick hug as she pulled him into the warm house.

“How’re ya Glenne” he smiled back enthusiastically as they entered.

“Good, good!, come let’s find Jeff and get you a drink” she said over the somewhat loud music that ran throughout the house. As Glenne guided him through the farmiliar house he took a moment to observe the people around him as they passed, seeing plenty of people that he knew well, a few he had met on a few occasions similar to this one, and some whom he’s never met. All together there were around 20 people, from what he could tell in passing.

Once they made it through each room of the well decorated house and into the bar area near the kitchen and dining area, he immediately saw Jeff leaning against the wall directly across from the doorway to the area. He was talking to a couple he recognized as Cathrine and Fred, two of their mutual friends, both worked in the music industry (Catherine being a well established sound engineer and Fred being one of the best producers in London). As they approached Jeff looked up and smiled excitedly at Harry and quickly pulled him in for a warm embrace. “Good t’ see you” Harry said as he smiled against his shoulder.

“Good to see you too H, glad you came. Nice to see you outside of that studio” Jeff replied with a small chuckle as they pulled away.

You had been at the party a total of fifty minutes and managed to down 3 vodka martinis and a glass of champagne without hesitation. You have always been able to hold your liquor, even though you didn’t usually drink more than twice a week. Not that much, you thought. Currently you were sitting on one of the two bright red sofas that sat Jeff and Glenne’s living room. You sat back against the velvet upholstery and had your left leg swung over yours and Glenne’s mutual friend Kassandra (or kassie as you called her).

You felt good, great even. It had been over 9 months since you had last seen any of these people. You had been living back and forth between New York City and London basically your whole adult life and just got back to London three days ago after being away for the most of the year. You were overjoyed to be back. You and Kassie were the only ones sitting on the couch to the right of the room, with a few others scattered throughout the living room. Some were standing and giggling by the fireplace, sipping on something strong you assumed based on how loudly they were conversing. There was a slightly less intoxicated couple sitting on the couch opposite of Kassie and yourself. You knew them well enough, although last time you saw them they were nothing more that friends and now they are very clearly together romantically. You didn’t mind though, not at all. You didn’t mind the noise, the increasingly drunker strangers and friends that passed through, you didn’t even mind the already almost-blackout strangers who thought they knew you and engulfed you in a rather tight hug. You felt relaxed and at home, as you always did when around Jeff and Glenne.

After about fifteen minutes of Jeff chatting Harry’s ear off about how excited he and Glenne were to be getting married, Glenne grabbed Harry’s arm. “Oh my god! H, I haven’t even introduced you to everyone yet have I?” She asked enthusiastically.

“I don’t believe you ‘ave” he replied with a small chuckle as he ran his free hand through his rapidly growing curls.

Before he knew it Glenne was guiding him through the house introducing him to a few people he hadn’t met yet. As they made their way into the living room he saw two girls sipping on what looked like martinis sitting on one of the couches. The two women were partially intertwined. One of them stood out though, almost like she controlled the room without even speaking. Harry stared at her, barely listening to Glenne talking beside him. She was incredibly beautiful, he thought. Her eyes and hands were effortlessly working together to capture everyone’s attention without even speaking. She wore a confidence he hadn’t seen before, even with his vast experience with super models and other celebrities alike. She looked like a royal, even in casual attire. He stood there, in the doorway completely stunned and rather confused as to why on earth he had never met her before.

“Earth to H?” Glenne said as she overdramatically waved her left hand in front of his face.

“Oh, um.. sorry, what were ya sayin’?” He replied as he quickly moved his gaze away from the stunning girl and back to his friend.

“Nevermind, cmon I need to indroduce you to Y/N and Kassie.” She mumbled quickly as she pulled him by his hand towards the very girl he was gawking at just moments before.

In the middle of Kassie making a dad joke in classic Kassie form, you spot Glenne walking over to where you are sitting rather excitedly with someone you immediately recognize as Harry Styles. Of course you knew who he was, and that Jeff was his manager and friend but you never had the chance to actually meet him. With both your schedules being as intense and unpredictable as they were it just never happened. You were a fan of his music, he is a very talented man but you definitely didn’t consider yourself a “stan”.

As they approached, Glenne turned to Harry and said “H, this is kassie!” As she pointed at her.

“Kassie works for Universal. Kassie this is Harry” she continued.

“S’ nice to meet you, Kassie” Harry said with a polite smile as he bent over to shake her hand lightly.

“And this” Glenne started as she turned her attention onto you. “Is one of my best friends, y/n! She’s the designer for KIWI” she finished with a smirk and a quick pat on your knee.

“Designer and founder actually love” You said as you glanced at Harry.

You extended your right arm out for him to shake and said “lovely to meet you, Harry. I’m y/n”. He seemed nervous which made you smirk a little. You thought it was cute.

As you placed your much smaller hand in his large ring clad one he responded with “S’ lovely to meet you too y/n. Big fan of your work”. His hand was a little sweaty but very strong and the shake itself was demanding which you liked.

Harry didn’t like how nervous he was talking to you, he’s not usually so anxious to speak to beautiful women. But, something about your incredibly strong eye contact and the way you said his name made his knees want to give out. He hadn’t lied when he said he is a fan of yours, he genuinely is. He loves your designs. Your ability to create pieces he’d never seen before, pieces completely out of the norm yet so easily fashionable was astounding to him. He had even worn some of your designs on tour and for a few interviews.

You took a sip of the martini that you held delicately in your right hand with a small hum in appreciation for his compliment. “M’ a fan of yours also, fine line is great” you reply as you glance down at your glass to find it empty. Harry takes a moment to revel in the fact that you enjoyed his latest work, before seeing your empty glass.

“Let me get ya’ a drink” he blurted out, not wanting the conversation to end.

“Mm I’ll come with” you agreed with a smile. Harry grabbed your hand again to help you up off the couch and away from Kassie who was now giggling with Glenne about something.

Harry keeps your hand in his as he guides you towards the bar. Once the two of you approach the bar he reaches for the glass in your hand and asks “what would ye like?”. You move your glance away from his and over to the large bar.

“I think we should do shots” you say with a big smile that makes Harry’s heart beat just a bit quicker.

“Shots it is then, love” he says with a small chuckle as he puts your dirty glass down and grabs two clear glass shot glasses.

“What liquor are we thinkin’?” He asked as he looks over the options.

“Oooh tequila for sure” you say confidently as you point at the bottle of expensive tequila.

“Mmm great choice” he praises as he grabs the bottle and proceeds to pour you each a shot.

“Cheers” you smirk as you grab your shot glass and clink it against the one in his hand. You make eye contact again as you down the shots in sync. As you lower your now empty shot glasses you realize how close you are to him, only about a foot and a half. Being this close to him makes you realize how handsome he is, his eyes are incredibly green and his shoulders are perfectly wide. His chocolate coloured curls sat harmoniously atop his head, one piece falling in front of his face seemingly by accident but it looked as it is meant to be there.

As Harry brought his shot glass away from his mouth and felt the strong burning sensation of the tequila making its way down his throat he stared at you. You’re eyes ostensibly checking him out, or atleast that’s what he convinced himself you were doing. In fact the combination of the warmth he felt in his stomach from the strong liquor and the minimal proximity between you and him was making him feel slightly dizzy. You truly were the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen. He wanted to know everything about you, where you were born, your passions, your worst fears, what makes you wet, what makes you angry, who you care about. Literally anything and everything you were willing to tell him he was more than happy to hear about.

“How’d you know Jeff and Glenne?” Harry finally asked. You smiled as you thought about how you met them.

“Jeff and I have been friends since collage, and I met G about a year after we graduated. I indroduced them actually” you explained as your smile grew at the fond memories.

“Jeff manages you right?” you asked as you turned back to the bar and started making yourself another gin martini. Harry nodded as he watched you

“yeah e’ does, but we’re great mates too. A’ve been since before he started managing meh” he said as he turned towards you a bit more

“s’ crazy we a’vent met before this” he continued as you finished making your drink.

“It is, a shame really” you smirked. “If you’ll excuse me, I’m off to powder room” you took another sip of your drink as you began to walk away.

Harry watched you walk away, shamelessly staring at your bum and god was it nice. He was stunned to be quite frank. He wasn’t completely sure what it was about you (other than the obvious of course) that made him so enamoured by you but he couldn’t help it. He ran his hands over his face and let out a huff. Looking around and taking in his surroundings properly for the first time since he laid eyes on you, he noticed less people were there. He decided he’d find Jeff so he could more subtly wait for you to return.

When you come out of the bathroom you look around and notice there are seemingly only a few people left at the party. You grab your phone out of the back pocket of your jeans to check the time, the screen illuminates and shows 1:37AM. You let out a small huff, put your phone back in your pocket and decide to go find Jeff. You walk down the hall from the bathroom and into the living room to find Jeff and Glenne sitting on the couch you were sat at earlier. Beside them was Kassie and sat on the couch directly adjacent from them was Harry and a man you’d never met before.

“Hi loves” you say as you strut over to sit next to the man you’d never met. “Don’t believe we’ve met, I’m y/n” you say confidently with a smile and extend your hand for him to shake, which he does.

“Nice to meet you, I’m Mitch. I’m Harry’s guitarist” he says with a slightly awkward smile.

“Oh lovely” you nod. “Y/n is the designer for KIWI, Mitch” Harry says as he tilts his head forward a bit to look at you over where Mitch is sitting in between the two of you. You giggle slightly at the sudden interruption.

“Oh! That’s sick. We all love your work” Mitch says with an even bigger smile as he looks at you again.

“Thank you” you reply as you smile back at him just as enthusiastically.

“H is pretty much obsessed really, pretty sure he bought out most of your fall collection” Mitch gushes as he nudges his head towards Harry slightly. Harry gives Mitch a bit of a menacing look as he feels his cheeks heat up.

“Mmm obsessed is he?” You smirk as you move your glance back to Harry and take a long sip of your drink.

“Anybody who isn’t would be ‘ave to be blind, love” Harry said as his lips turned up into a smile, showing off his infamous dimples.

Just as you were about to reply to Harry’s bold compliment you heard Kassie let out a loud yawn from across the other couch. You turned your attention towards her as she said “think I’m gonna head out guys, it’s getting late”. She got up and Jeff and Glenne did as well. Kassie gave Jeff a hug.

“Think I’ll be going also, I haven’t watered my cactus since yesterday” you giggled as you walked over to hug Glenne and say your goodbyes. As soon as you let go of your embrace you noticed Harry was stood directly beside you.

“I’ll walk you t’ the door” Harry insisted and you nodded, following him to the front door.

“Love you Jeff! Love you G!” You yelled behind you.

Once stood in the entry way with Harry he said “really was lovely t’ meet ya”. You smiled and gave him a short hug.

“was lovely to meet you too Harry, thanks for havin a shot with me”. You went to grab the door handle to leave but Harry stopped you by grabbing your wrist lightly.

“Do ya think I could get ya numba’?” He asked as your gaze met his yet again.

You hummed in faux thought “now where’s the fun in that, love” you replied with a smirk as you turned back around, releasing your wrist from his grasp, opened the door and left.

[fanmoose12]

Dancing our dance

Summary: Sina was a city of wretched and helpless. A place governed by misery, terror and ruthless, cold-hearted criminals. 

As horrible as it was, however, there were quite a few things that made Levi’s life in this city almost enjoyable.  

A ganster!AU and Levihan Secret Santa gift for collapsability! Happy New Year <33

Sina. The greatest city on Earth. The place of flourish and success. A metropolis of wretched and damned. A place, where rich and elite could only prosper, multiplying their wealth and increasing their status, while hungry and poor were fighting each other for the smallest scraps of food.

Levi had experienced the worst of both worlds. He knew the desperation, the hunger that gnawed at him while he lived in the slumbers with rats as his company. And he was familiar with comfort and luxuries of life as a rich man. He also knew the danger, the constant fear that one mistake, a single wrong move could cost him not only his carefully cumulated wealth, but his life as well.

Considering his lifestyle, Levi was sure he wouldn't have lived for long. And he wouldn't have, if he hadn't stuck to the winning team.

Erwin Smith was sharp, calculating and ruthless. His biggest talent, though, was his exceptional ability to surround himself with the best of the best and inspire undying loyalty in them. Levi was good, excellent with guns and even better with knifes, but he wasn't the only member of Erwin's gang. There was Mike - an expert brawler and a man of few words, which made him even more valuable, Nanaba - an elite sniper and doctor, and, of course, Hange Zoe – a genius scientist and a massive pain in Levi's ass. She was loud, messy and had an uncanny ability to attract all sorts of trouble. Which made Levi's life just that much harder, since most of the times, Erwin made them work side by side.

Hange was smart, unbelievably so, but she was also so, so careless that Levi had to watch her every move, afraid that if he so much as looks away, Hange would instantly get swept in some trouble.

Even now, as he was sitting inside the overcrowded, bustling with people Wings of Freedom - a popular night club, owned by Erwin, - Levi couldn't take his eyes off Hange. 

Wings of Freedom was the place for the richest, most famous citizens of Sina. No one could get in, if they weren't approved by Erwin and his gang first. Despite the harsh restrictions and the overpriced alcohol that was served there, it was always full of customers. The success of the club was well-deserved, though. The alcohol, as expensive as it was, was also good. It wasn’t watered down like in the rest of speakeasies. And Levi couldn’t deny it, the interior of the club was breathtaking. As a former street rat, Wings of Freedom was a definition of wealth and prestige for him. It was a grand, spectacular thing with high glass ceilings, large, bright candelabras, red carpets on the floor and big, bright stage. Only the best musicians were allowed to perform in there, and Levi had no doubts about the vast talent that the current artists possessed. However, he was too preoccupied with boring holes into a certain four-eyed idiot to appreciate their efforts.

The dance floor, situated right beneath the stage, was as overflowing with people as the rest of the speakeasy. But Levi could recognize that mop of brown messy hair everywhere, and he watched it move around intently. Hange was in the middle of dance floor, spinning some unknown woman in a frilly yellow dress. Despite the uncomfortable feeling and overprotective instinct that appeared upon watching someone else touch Hange, Levi couldn't help but admire her movements. As clumsy as she could be, in a fight or a dance, Hange was as graceful as they come. Levi lost himself in following every move of her body, the way she spun, jumped and waved her hands. She was doing all of it so effortlessly, wearing an excited grin on her face.

Suddenly Hange looked away from her dance partner. Their eyes met, that little spark inside her gaze evident even from great distance. She winked at him, and Levi felt his face flush. He lifted his glass, gulping the contents down in one go. The whiskey burned his throat and he winced, turning away from Hange. He looked around, desperate to find something else to preoccupy himself with. Distraction came fairly quickly in the form of big oak door that opened at the other way of the room.

Looks like the big man is here, Levi sighed, getting to his feet and starting to descend down the stairs to the dance floor. It was time to retrieve Hange.

It was time for work.

 ***

Hange jumped, when Levi pulled her closer by the back of her suspenders. She whirled around, wide eyed and surprised.

"Levi!" she raised her voice, panting slightly. Even met with his scowl, the grin didn't leave her face. On the contrary, it only grew wider. "Finally came down to join me?"

Levi glanced at Hange's partner, who was awkwardly stomping behind, unsure of what to do. "You know I don't dance," he shook his head. "So say goodbye to your girlfriend and let's go. Erwin is here."

"Already?" Hange whined. "But I was having so much fun!"

"Tough shit," Levi answered, glaring at the girl Hange was having so much fun with.

"You owe me a dance then," she pointed a finger at Levi. "And I don't take no for an answer," she added, shutting down any possible protest.

"Let's finish the work first," Levi grunted. He didn't say yes to Hange's demand.

He didn't say no either.

"Hurry up then!" Hange exclaimed, linking her arm with Levi's and dragging him up the stairs. She didn't say goodbye, didn't even glance at the girl she was dancing with.

Levi hid a satisfied smirk.

*** 

Erwin, when they approached him, looked as immaculate as always. Not a hair out of place, not a wrinkle on his pristinely white shirt. It was always so hot in Wings of Freedom and Levi wondered how much Erwin must be sweating in his grey three-piece suit. Levi himself, as meticulous as he was about his appearance, had taken off his jacket, wearing a dark blue vest with the sleeves of his white shirt rolled up to his elbows. And Hange wasn't even wearing a vest, but only a stripped light colored shirt.

"Hi, Erwin," Hange slide in a booth from the left side and pecked him on a cheek.

"Good evening, Hange," Erwin smiled. "I saw you were having a lot of fun."

"That I did," she grinned. “Unfortunately, it was cut off so abruptly,” she noted, glaring at Levi.

"What do you need us to do?" ignoring Hange’s petulance, Levi sat down as well, taking a seat at Erwin’s right side.

Erwin's smile turned into a serious frown.

"I have found an informant. He knows something, I'm sure, but he refused to talk with Mike. Maybe, you'll have more luck with him.

"Informant?" Hange asked, surprised. "Does he know something about—"

"Yes," Erwin answered, clenching his jaw. "He knows about Titans."

Levi's eyes darkened as soon as he heard that name. Titans were a rival gang, who terrorized the city every night. As powerful as Erwin was, he couldn't get rid of them. They lurked in the shadows, hidden from everyone. As ferocious as they were, no one even knew who their leader was. Levi didn't care. Whoever that bastard was, he was going to kill them, along with every member. He swore to do it years ago. On his friend's graves. Sweet, innocent Isabel and wise, reliable Farlan - his first true friends. Levi would never forget them. And he would make sure that those who had taken them from him would pay for their mistake.

A warm, comforting touch interrupted his dark thoughts. Levi looked up, meeting Hange's gaze. She smiled at him, worry swirling in her warm brown eyes.

Levi turned away from her, directing his stare at Erwin. Before Hange took away her hand, however, Levi patted it softly, silently thanking for the concern.

"So we need to find that informant and make him spill the info?" Hange clarified.

"Basically, yes. Here," he handed Hange a small file. She opened it instantly, pushing the glasses up her nose and quickly scanning over the pages. "Your target is the man named Nick. He lives in downtown and works in the nearby church as a pastor—"

"Pastor?" Hange looked up, wearing a mischievous grin. "That's intriguing."

Erwin turned his stern gaze at her. "Don't overdo it, Hange We need him alive. And, preferably, mentally stable."

Hange scoffed, crossing hands on her chest. "Don't know what you're talking about. I've never—"

"Really, four-eyes? Remember that guy who—"

"That was one time!" Hange cut him off, before Levi could finish. Erwin didn't need to know about that time. "And he was an asshole and totally deserved it."

"And what about that other guy—"

"It was an accident!" Hange gritted through her teeth, her fists clutched tightly together.

"Calm down," Erwin scolded them, covering his eyes with a hand and letting out an exhausted sigh. "I swear to god, sometimes you both act like you're still children."

"I'm nothing like her—"

“Considering his height, he’s still—"

"Enough!" Erwin barked, exasperated. "Just go already. Before I develop a migraine."

"He started it first," Hange pouted. As soon, as Erwin looked away, she stuck her tongue out.

Levi didn't retaliate. He was going to behave. At least, while Erwin is watching.

"Let's go, four-eyes," he got to his feet, waiting for Hange to join him.

"Oh, right!" she exclaimed, smacking her forehead in frustration. "I totally forgot, we should hurry!"

Erwin arched an eyebrow. "Are you late for something?"

"Oh, you don't know it yet," with a sly smile, Hange leaned closer to Erwin's ear, although, she didn't bother to lower her voice. "Levi asked me for a dance afterward."

"I didn't not," Levi grunted, trying (and failing) to keep a straight, calm face under Erwin's amused gaze.

"I've never seen Levi dance," he commented, scratching his chin. "You should truly hurry, Hange. I want to see him dance too. It's once in a lifetime occurrence after all."

"Roger that, boss!" Hange did a mocking salute and then grabbed Levi's hand, dragging him out of the club.

Levi surrendered with a heavy sigh. Now there was no way he could avoid this dancing stuff.

"How do I look?" she asked, turning to Levi with a lopsided grin.

***

The first thing Hange did as she walked out of the car that Levi parked near the pastor's house was putting on her hat. She made sure that the accessory sat comfortably and then ran a hand over the brim.

"Awful," he replied dryly. "What is our plan?"

"The usual," Hange shrugged. She didn't bat an eye at Levi's jab, continuing to casually stroll through the street. "I do the talking, you do your scary face thing."

"Alright," Levi agreed easily. The plan suited him well. Never failed them before too.

"Huh," Hange whistled, putting hands on her hips and staring up at the building in front of her. "That's quite a nice house. Do you think all pastors earn that much?"

"Do I look like a pastor to you? How the fuck should I know?"

"You could pull off pastor's look, though," Hange continued, cheerful, despite his harsh words. "If you ever need to go undercover..."

Ignoring her blubbering and pushing past her, Levi stepped on a venue leading up to the front door. His eyes narrowed, as he stared at the house in front of him. He glanced to his wrist watch. He frowned.

"It's almost midnight..."

"And yet our pastor is still awake," Hange threw an arm over his shoulder, watching the house as well. "Maybe, he's insomniac?"

"Only one way to find out," Levi pointed his chin towards the door and made another step towards the house.

"Wait," Hange's hand caught his wrist. Levi turned back, alarmed by the sudden seriousness of her tone. 

"Before we go inside... I need to know what you prefer the most - Charleston, Fox-Trot or Texas Tommy?"

Levi needed a few seconds to realize what the fuck Hange was on about. He blinked a few times, staring at her with a dumbfounded face. And when it finally hit him, he snatched his hand out of her grasp. Hange was such an idiot, why he even bothered to listen to her?

"I didn't agree to dance with you, four-eyes," he scowled at her. Under the weight of his gaze, anyone else would have shrined in fear. Hange just smirked. Levi resisted the urge to lash out on her or leave her to deal with the shitty pastor alone. Would have served her right for being such a jerk. He took a deep breath, calming himself down. There was a job they needed to finish. He wouldn't let Hange's idiocy distract him from that.

"Focus on a task on hand please," he told her, trying to keep his voice steady.

"And when we finish?"

Levi sent her another sizzling gaze. It produced no effect whatsoever.

He took another breath. "And then we'll see. The club could be closed by the time we're done here."

"It closes at dawn," Hange stated matter-of-fact.

Levi muttered a few curses. She was doing this on purpose. Riling him up just to make him lose it. He wouldn't give her the satisfaction.

Turning away from her and ignoring Hange’s annoyed mumbling, Levi reached the front door and knocked.

It was quiet for the first few seconds. Then the sound of shuffling could be heard. A moment later, the door opened, revealing a balding middle-aged man.

Hange took a step forward, waving her hand gleefully.

The man's eyes widened. He tried to slam the door closed. Levi's leg didn't give him a chance to.

"Pastor Nick, right? We just came here to talk!" Hange grinned. "There is no need to be afraid! We're—"

"I know who you are," pastor's lip was trembling. Levi absentmindedly wondered if he would start crying. He hoped not. He hated when people cry. "You... You're Erwin Smith's devil duo."

Hange nudged Levi in the side, almost glowing with happiness. "They have a nickname for us, Levi. We're getting famous!"

"We're criminals, Hange," Levi coughed, trying to mask the affection in his voice. As annoying as Hange could be, she was also so fucking endearing. "We shouldn't be famous."

“Still,” Hange flipped the hat on her head, still grinning from ear to ear. “It’s nice to know we have a reputation.”

"And you," Hange said to pastor, her eyes turning sharp. "If you know so much about us, you should know that we don't harm innocent, so if you got nothing to hide, you've got nothing to be afraid of," she spread her arms, putting on a friendly, sweet smile. Beside her, Levi rolled his eyes. Hange's theatrics were over the top sometimes. Almost no one bought her act anyway.

Pastor Nick wasn't an exception.

"I wouldn't recommend it," Levi warned, when pastor reached with his hand to the side of the door.

"I know nothing!" pastor Nick threw hands in the air. "Your boss just got some false data."

Levi cocked his eyebrow, giving pastor a look full of disbelief. Erwin sending them on a mission before checking his information as thorough as possible and making sure it wasn’t just a dumb rumor? Highly unlikely.

"Maybe, you could just allow us to come inside? We'll have a nice little chat and then we'll decide if what you know is worthy for us or no," Hange's smile grew wider and Levi's scowl grew darker and pastor's resolve crumbled.

With a deep, shaky sigh, he took a step back, allowing them to enter.

"And we did it!" Hange whispered, clasping Levi on a back.

"We're not done yet," he reminded her, eyeing the pastor with suspicion. The way he acted... so desperate to make them leave... Levi couldn't help but wonder what pastor was trying to hide. What he was afraid of? Was he simply frightened by the fact that they're gangsters? Possibly, but if he had the info on Titans, he must have been quite familiar with the criminal underworld. Besides, they weren't asking to join their ranks, just spill some intel. And it wasn't like Hange was lying, they never harmed innocents. Even more, Erwin always offered protection to the ones who aided him.

Could it be that pastor wasn't afraid of them? Then who was it? Titans?

"Levi?" Hange interrupted his thoughts by patting his shoulder. Levi met her eyes, turning away from pastor. She held his gaze, nodding ever so slightly. So he wasn't seeing things. Hange was suspecting something too. "Would you make us some tea, please? While me and pastor talk?"

"Of course," he agreed. This too was the part of their routine. According to Hange, it was easier to win the target's trust if Levi wasn't in the room with them and his cold steely eyes weren't boring holes into them. This tactic always worked and Levi had no reason to doubt it this time too. Still he was reluctant to leave Hange alone with pastor. That look in his eyes, Levi didn't like it.

"I'll be fine," Hange smiled faintly, noticing Levi's unwillingness. "Besides, you're just a room away."

“Of course, you’re right. Just don’t lose your focus, Hange.”

With one last look at pastor, Levi turned away, heading in the direction that he hoped would lead him to the kitchen.

Levi's guess was corrected.

When he entered the dark room and turned on a switch, he saw a spacious and neat room with fridge, cupboards, oven and sink. He went straight to the oven, meaning to heat up the cattle. His eyebrows furrowed when he touched the cattle. It was hot as though it was recently heated up. Was their pastor a fan of midnight tea? Or was he expecting someone?

Instinctively, Levi glanced behind his back, at the wall that separated kitchen from the living room. A hushed voice could be heard from inside the room. It was calm and persuading and it belonged to Hange. Some tension left his body, as Levi listened to it. The voice was too soft to hear what Hange was actually talking about, but, nevertheless, it calmed him down. Levi turned around, intent to finish his job. The water was already boiled. Now he needed to find some tea. And cups, where he could pour it.

He lifted his eyes. There were six cupboards hanging on the wall. Levi chose the closest to him and opened it. Seasonings and eggs. He sighed and opened the next one. It held napkins and towels. He moved further. This cupboard was used for storing pans, the next one - cots. Levi cursed and slammed it shut with more force than necessary. The tableware inside rattled dangerously. He ignored it, opening the fifth cupboard, this one with plates. Levi’s expression relaxed a bit, he was getting closer. He looked inside the last one, and finally, this one held cups. Standing on his tiptoes, he took three cups out and put them on a table. Then he returned to the first cupboard, the one with seasonings and rummaged through it, looking for any kind of tea. Surprisingly, pastor's collection was quite large. Levi's respect for the man grew, as he found his favorite kind of tea – lapsang souchong.

As he waited for the tea to brew, Levi studied the kitchen. Hange was right, the house looked too good to belong to a simple pastor. How an old man who lived alone could afford it? And how could he afford so many kinds of tea? Even Levi's collection wasn't so vast, and he frequently used his connections to get the best kinds, since some of them weren't even distributed in their city. But how could pastor get his hands on them? And was it connected to the fact that he knew something about Titans? Too many unknowns in this seemingly simple equation. Levi didn't like it. However, it wasn't his job to think about it. Hange was the brain of their duo after all.

His job right now involved brewing a tea. He poured it into the cups and put them on a tray. Then be added three spoons of sugar into Hange's cup. He stirred it carefully and then picked up the tray, heading to the living room.

Hopefully, Hange was done with pestering their target.

***

"Here you are," Hange spoke warmly. She rose to her feet and helped Levi set the tray onto a coffee table. Sitting down next to her on the sofa, Levi handed Hange and pastor, who was sitting in a big armchair, their teacups. Hange accepted hers with a grateful smile. Pastor scoffed with a disgruntled expression.

"Do you really think I'm dumb enough to drink whatever you put in your so called tea?”

"If I wanted to kill you," Levi said in a dark, low voice. "I wouldn't have used poison, you dipshit."

"We've already established the fact that we very much need you alive, pastor. And besides," Hange grinned, a bright contrast to Levi's gloomy look. "Levi takes great pride in his tea making abilities. As he should," she noted, lifting the cup to her lips, taking the first sip. "Mm," she closed her eyes, a blissful expression on her face. "The best tea in the city."

"Don't exaggerate, Hange," Levi scolded harshly, ignoring the warm sensation that spread through his veins at her praise. “Just because I can actually brew something better than that piss you called tea, doesn’t mean it’s the best tea.”

Hange started laughing – as always loudly and unabashedly, with her head thrown back and her hair flying everywhere. She spilled some of her tea in the process and Levi tsked, taking a handkerchief out of his pants and throwing it at Hange.

“Erwin Smith’s devil duo, huh?” pastor Nick mumbled, too quiet for either of them to hear. “They’re quite a pair.”

Everything that happened next, happened way too quickly.

Pastor took the cup into his hands, intending to take a taste of the tea Hange was praising so much. Levi turned to stare at him, curious for his reaction. Hange followed the suit, the hand that wasn’t holding her own cup, thrown over Levi’s shoulders. The cup almost touched pastor’s lips, when the front door of the house was thrown open. The man appeared – dressed in a long coat, his face obscured by shadows. He ran into the living room, and took out a gun. Levi jumped to his feet, ready to attack, but before he could do anything, two gunshots rang. With wide eyes, Levi stared at the pastor’s now dead body with a hole in the center of his forehead.

He was frozen for merely a second, a second too long. By the time he snapped out of it, the shooter was already gone. Levi rushed after him, running through the front door and onto the porch. It was empty, no sight of the culprit. He looked around the empty, silent and lamp-lit street. Nothing. He gritted his teeth, kicking the curb in frustration. 

Titans, for he was sure it was their work, had killed another innocent right in front of him. And just like the first time, just like with Farlan and Isabel, there was nothing he could do to stop them. At the memory of his late friends, Levi was overcome with frustration. He promised to protect them, and failed. He promised to avenge them, and failed again.

Useless. He was fucking useless. What good his skills did, if he couldn’t protect the ones closest to him?

The silence of the street around him was deafening, pressing onto Levi from all sides. Quiet, it was too quiet. Why was it so quiet here? It shouldn’t be, Levi realized with a start. Hange was with him, it shouldn’t be so goddamn quiet.

And then it hit him. Hange. Where the fuck was she? Why wasn’t she by his side, searching for the killer with him? Another revelation almost knocked the air out of Levi. There were two gunshots. What if the other one wasn’t meant for pastor?

With heart in his throat, Levi dashed back inside. Something close to a prayer was going through his head, as he tried to push the image of Hange’s bloodied, lifeless body out of his mind.

No, he won’t let that happen. He won’t lose another friend.

"Hange?" Levi called, stumbling inside. "Hange, where are you?"

There was no answer. Why was there no answer?

The seconds it took for him to reach the living room felt like years. More than anything, Levi was afraid to arrive too late. He couldn't repeat the same mistake. Not with Hange.

As he entered the living room, Levi's knees nearly gave out and a wave of relief washed over him. Hange— she was alive.

He hastily approached her, grabbing her elbows and turning her around to face him. His eyes skimmed along her body, searching for any sight of the injury. Despite her labored breathing, Hange seemed to be unharmed. Levi looked her over more carefully and his heart skipped a beat, when he saw a small dark spot on her otherwise clean shirt. His fingers touched that place gingerly.

"It's not mine," Hange said, and the hollowness of her voice took Levi's breath away. He lifted his gaze, staring at her face. Only now he noticed the blood on her cheek. She must have stood next to pastor, when he was shot, he realized. What frightened Levi more, however, was the faraway look in her eyes. She was in shock, Levi guessed. He needed to calm her down and then get her out of here.

"They killed him..." Hange whispered. She turned around, staring at the pastor's body so intently, it made a shiver run down Levi's spine.

He curled his fingers around her wrist, his every move slow and careful.

"Hange, we need to go," he pulled at her hand, tugging her closer. "The cops are going to be there soon, we should leave."

"Yeah," Hange nodded. She wasn't completely with him yet, and Levi wrapped an arm around her shoulders, leading her outside and then into the car. Opening the passenger door, he pushed her inside. He grabbed his jacket from the back seat and draped it over Hange. Kneeling in front of her, he rubbed her arms soothingly, looking into her eyes. The spark in her eyes wasn't there yet, but— Hange was slowly coming back. Levi lifted his hand, taking off her glasses and folding them carefully in the front pocket of his shirt. Gently, he whipped the blood from her cheek and after that, proceeded to clean the glasses too.

Putting them back on her face, Levi forced a smile. "Are you feeling better?"

"Did you get them? The shooter?"

Levi looked away, not wanting to see the disappointment inside those eyes. "No," he said, clenching his jaw.

"Fuck," Hange breathed out. "We let them get away once again."

"I was the one who fucked up.”

"Shut up," Hange pushed him away, strong enough to make Levi lose his balance and fell on his ass. He didn't get up, though, instead staring at Hange in surprise. That spark in her eyes - it was finally back. It was even more intense than usual, as Hange glared at him.

"I hate when you do that - blame yourself for everything. Not everything is your fault! We fucked up this time, yes. You didn't catch the guy, but I should have noticed that something was wrong. And I did, but decided to ignore it. We both made a mistake, and it’s up to us to make everything right. Together as we always do." A ghost of a smile appeared on her lips, as she extended a hand to him. "Don't you agree?"

Levi accepted her hand with a grunt. "Erwin's rubbed off on you," he complained, getting to his feet. "You sound just like him."

Hange chucked, her eyes sparking, and Levi let himself relax. She was still shaken, but that hollowness was gone.

"Thanks," Hange muttered, when Levi got inside the car. "I was a little out of it."

Levi nodded, starting the car. His mind was still reeling from tonight's events. While Hange was a little out of it, he was scared shitless. He was afraid that he made another mistake, he was afraid that he lost her.

It terrified him more than Levi was ready to admit. Hange, that little shit, managed to worm her way into his heart. He wasn't strong enough to stop her then, and he isn’t strong enough to push her away now.

Levi sighed, opening the window and letting the cold wind clear his head.

"Charleston, Texas Tommy or Fox-Trot?" he kept his eyes straight on the road, his voice as bored and emotionless as ever.

"Levi?" Hange frowned. "What are you—"

"What do you prefer, four-eyes?" he glowered, his cheeks turning red.

"Oh," for a moment, Hange was silent. She sat with her hands on her knees, her lips slowly curling into a grin.

"Since it's our first dance," she met his eyes in the rear window, winking. "I'll let you chose."

Levi grunted, gripping the steering wheel tighter and pushing down the gas pedal, speeding up. Hange didn't need to know it, of course, but he was pretty excited. He was also more than a little bit nervous. He had never really learnt how to dance. There was never a suitable partner. But now... Levi glanced at Hange, subtly admiring her profile. With her, maybe, it could all work out.

***

Just when they almost reached Wings of Freedom, Levi took a sharp turn, going into the opposite direction.

"Um, Levi? It's the wrong turn. The club is up ahead."

"I hate this place. It's too hot and there are too many people. Since it's our first dance," he showed Hange a small smirk. "I want to take you somewhere special."

 ***

Levi’s special place turned out to be a small park on the edge of Sina. Away from flashing city’s lights, it was dark, but cozy small place with only a few benches and a lonely swing, standing in a corner. It was situated on a precipice, and the whole city could be seen from up there.

“It’s beautiful,” Hange breathed out, her eyes full of childish wonder. She was standing at the very edge of precipice, gripping the metal railing with her hands. Logically, Levi knew that it was highly unlikely that Hange would fall over. Still, he stood a little closer to her, hovering just in case.

“Amongst all the horrors this city hides, it’s easy to forget how many wondrous things are there as well.” She bumped his shoulder with a grin. “You’re one of those wondrous things, Levi.”

“Shut up,” he grunted, feeling warmth spread through him at her words. Hange’s affection never failed in making him feel embarrassed. It also never failed in making him feel good. Levi craved her warmth more than he was comfortable admitting. That’s why he tried not to think about it too much.

“C’mon, four-eyes,” he tugged at her wrist, dragging away from the edge. “We came here to dance, did we not?”

"Someone's impatient, huh?" Hange teased. She stood in front of him, her arms hovering above his. "So... How do you want to do this?"

It didn't take Levi much time to decide. He did think about it. He put his left hand on her shoulder, and with his right one he grasped her palm. He took a step closer, their feet almost touching.

"Like this," he whispered.

"Alright," Hange nodded, a little shakily. "Alright, let's do it then."

She started to slowly move them around. Levi had never really understood the common obsession with dancing. People just spinned around while holding hands. There was nothing seemingly pleasant about this.

Now, though, he was inclined to change to his mind. Dancing with Hange was... fun. He liked the feeling of her hand in his, enjoyed the way she firmly held his waist. And looking up at her, with her eyes sparkling brightly even in the dark, Levi felt like he could keep dancing with her for hours. With Hange beside him, he was slowly forgetting about everything else. He felt like Hange and he were the only people in the world, nothing else mattered but Hange's bright eyes and soft smile. Nothing else was more important than this one small moment.

Hange sighed, putting her chin on Levi’s head. "I really needed this tonight. Thank you for indulging me, shorty."

"It's not that bad."

Hange stopped abruptly, her eyes going wide.

"Levi..." she began carefully. "Are you saying.... that you are enjoying this?"

"I said what I said," Levi retorted harshly. Maybe, he did enjoy the dance. What was wrong about it?

"Well, if you like it so much," Hange drew with a smirk on her lips. "We can do it more often."

"I will never dance in Erwin's shitty club."

"You didn't say no," Hange noted.

"I didn't," he agreed softly.

Hange beamed, and in the darkness, her smile was shining more brightly than the whole city below.

[mammonspeanut]

Mammon x MC - A little surprise- last part

So my loves here is the last part of the story I wrote. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading it as much as I have enjoyed writing it and reading it more than once. I’d love to hear your thoughts on it and I want to thank everyone who read the entire story and shared and liked it. <3 love you so much

part 3

After Mammon successfully convinced everyone to support and join his plan of surprising MC the day has come. Excitement may be an understatement but will MC like what he had planned for her and how will she react?

“Asmodeus is saving us some time, come on and let’s prepare the room.” , Beel mumbled as food fell out of his mouth.

After setting everything up Lucifer slipped into his outfit, a pair of jeans which were stretchy enough that he could lift his legs and squat without a problem and a black colored sleeveless shirt and a white pair of socks and sneakers. Beel was slipping into his beige pants and white sleeveless shirt “I still don’t understand why we don’t have the same outfit.”,Beel asked confused as Belfie handed him his shoes and suspenders explained once again “ It is supposed to look natural and kinda like what the guys were wearing in that period of time. Plus you’ll be changing outfits later anyways.” Levi was already dressed in his gray pants and black turtleneck “Why can’t Lucifer wear the turtleneck?” he nagged as he pulled at his collar uncomfortably “Simple because he doesn’t need to look even more like a jerk. Plus it is better than that orange silk shirt Asmodeus wanted us to wear”, Satan taunted as he stood there topless closing his belt after pulling up his black pair of jeans while Levi shuddered at the memory of the orange silk shirt. It didn’t take long for Lucifer to pick up Satan’s Bordeaux colored sleeveless shirt only to chuck it into his face “Shut up and put your clothes on.” The door creaked open slowly as Asmodeus entered the room “She’s in the tub come on boys I need to do your makeup.” he whispered. As Mammon watched everyone get dressed he still stood there in his usual clothes frozen with fear. What if it wasn’t perfect he had spent 4 months planning and practicing everything, perfectioning every move and every song and now? Now he was so full of fear that he couldn’t move. “What’s up with him?”, Belphegor asked Satan as he adjusted his shirt and shrugged at the same time “Mammon. Get dressed dude.” Levi called from  across the room everyone's eyes were on Mammon at that moment “Mammon.”, Lucifer called catching his attention “What if this turns out bad. I mean it won’t be after all I am the great Mammon and I planned everything but what if I mess up?”, Mammon quietly asked letting his gaze wander through the room. Lucifer approached Mammon and quietly comforted him for the first time in a while “It won’t happen and if you do we are also here. Now, come on get dressed, Mc will love it no matter what.” Mammon nodded slightly and grabbed his black pair of pants, a yellow shirt, and a black cardigan. Asmodeus didn’t have much time and just powdered Mammon’s face and slipped back out of the room. Beel and Levi discussed the routine again as Belphie adjusted the lighting. In the moment where everyone pat Mammon on the back his phone Buzzed -You guys ready???? We are on our way!!- “They are on their way, let's get into our positions, Belphie get ready!”, Mammon informed everyone followed by a uniform nod from everyone in the room. “Asmodeus, why are we here?”, MC's voice questioned outside of the door while Mammon's heart began to race even more as he moved from side to side shaking his hands and trying to get comfortable while whispering to himself until Lucifer put his hand on Mammon’s shoulder. “Dear, do you think I would do something weird with you~ Come on in.” Asmodeus chirped as the door opened “Asmos, it’s dar-” “Sit right here~”, Asmodeus cut her after a moment of silence you could hear a smack and then Belphegor quietly say “Okay. Okay, I’m awake.”

The lights slowly turned on and the music began to play. The evening when better than planned all moves sat perfectly between the five boys and every song went without an accident. MC enjoyed herself more than everything else and cheered a lot while singing along with them and moving in her seat. She was amused to see Lucifer actually enjoying himself and just being not as stiff as he usually is and Satan nailing every step he made just to be better than Lucifer. MC was surprised by the fact that Beel didn’t stop once to eat something and by the fact how light-footed he was dancing as she looked over to Levi he had the most serious face of all concentrating on every move. Being Surprised by the quick outfit change for every song was an understatement since the boys were changed in less than 5 minutes and you knew for a fact that Lucifer took way longer.

As she looked at Mammon a warm feeling spread throughout her body she had felt this feeling quite often with Mammon but this time it was different it was as if her heart was squeezed tightly and it dropped. The way his eyes glistened in the light and the way his hair moved when he made his turns or the moment when he realized that she was having fun and he had the biggest smile on his face. The wink he gave her to make her cheer and whoo even louder, during the last set the boys came out in suits the first one to emerge was Beel who looked kind of lost in his mustard-colored suit but it sat very well on him. “Hey, Asmo.” MC whispered as Levi followed in a very dark purple suit, anyone could see that he wasn’t used to wearing suits as he adjusted his blazer. “Yes~” flirted Asmodeus into MCs ear enough to make her shudder while Satan entered in a very dark emerald suit leaving her almost speechless. “Mc dear?~” Asmo flirted into MC's ear as she found her words again while watching Lucifer come into the room in a burgundy suit while putting on his hat “Did you make all these outfits?” Mc asked absentmindedly wondering what Mammons suit would look like. As soon as the thought was formed in her mind Mammon entered the room in a three-piece white suit. Barely able to register Asmodeus confirming that indeed he had hand-sewn each outfit by himself and fitted each of the boys. Mc wasn’t sure if she was staring at Mammon with an open mouth but the few seconds it took for Mammon to enter and to look up, catch her gaze and smile at her felt as if things were in slow motion. There wasn’t a word in the world to explain what she felt at that moment when the light bounced off of his blue/yellow eyes. The last song was over in a breeze, she barely was able to focus on anything else but Mammon and how he looked in his suit and how well he moved. All she knew was that she wanted him all to herself.

After the little performance, Mammon was completely out of breath as MC approached them handing Beel immediately some food since he hadn’t eaten for the entire time. The fact that she went first to him kind of hurt but after all, it was a smart move, no one wanted him to eat anyone in the room just because he was hungry. Next, he watched her approach Levi hugging him and congratulating him on doing so well, it wasn’t a surprise as she hugged Satan and complimented him on how well the green suit looked on him. Mammon huffed trying to catch air and also kind of to bring the attention to him after all he had done all of this. He continued to watch as MC began to talk to Lucifer praising him and striking up a small conversation on actually participating in the entire thing. “I guess.”,Mammon murmured jealousy forming a knot in his stomach. He could hear her asking “Whose idea was this and most importantly who planned all of this.” after not hearing a thing for a bit “Hey Mammon? Wanna come out into the fresh air with me?” she asked, ripping him out of his thoughts.  “Uh, yeah?”, he answered confused as she had grabbed his hand pulling him behind her.

“Hey! Hey Buttercup! Slow down.” he called as she hurried outside with him. He shut the door right behind him as she stood as close as possible to him again, he looked down at her watching her eyes move from left to right as she looked at his face. A gust of wind carried her scent with it as he inhaled it he felt his heart beating up in his throat. “Did you really do all of this for me?” she asked without breaking eye contact. Ready to let out a deflecting answer he opened his mouth “No, Mammon, be honest.”, she cut him off as he shut his mouth, feeling his tongue heavy in his mouth the words felt like syrup in his throat “Yes.”, he managed to answer as he pushed her curly hair behind her ear leaving it there for a second longer than he should have. “Why?” she asked, leaning her head into his hand. He noticed her face felt warmer as usual and her eyes expectant as he slowly rubbed his thumb over her cheek. “Because I wanted to make you happy.”, he said while his heartfelt as if it was about to jump right out of his chest. He feared her next question, feared that he was going to expose his feelings and be completely vulnerable. He could see her racking her brain for the next question that was lingering in the air waiting for her to vocalize it as the trees nearby rustled eager for what next was to transpire. “Because…”, Mammon began without waiting for her question as he cupped her face with his other hand he saw the fear in her eyes. The same fear he had, to be exposed, to let yourself fall mercilessly and recklessly, to be vulnerable to the point where it scared you. She grabbed on to his wrists slightly opening her mouth as he inched closer, he knew that she needed to know that this was real and that she was safe with him. She made sure that in this moment, where her feelings were exposed for everyone to see, that she was grabbing onto the situation because she didn’t want to let it slip away. Mammon grabbed her face a bit tighter as he intended to because he didn’t want her to slip away either. He wanted to hold on to something more precious than money or anything he could possess in the entire world. His nose softly touched hers as he saw tears well up in her eyes, he pressed his lips onto hers. Pulling her close to him, putting all the feelings he had for her in the kiss, their lips crashed with a force into each other. He felt her squeeze his wrists tightly as he pulled her even closer. He wanted to remove any space that was between the both of them, he wanted her as close as possible. He could feel her tears running down her cheeks coating his face, though he wasn’t sure if it was only her tears or his as well. As their lips parted, Mammon looked deep into MC's eyes to make sure that she was still right in front of him and indeed she was a sigh of relief escaped as he pulled her close to him again.

He hugged her tightly and as they both looked out into the darkness they both simultaneously asked: “So, are we dating?” Mammon felt MCs head shift under his chin and he looked down at her both greeting each other with an empty facial expression and then bursting out in laughter “Yes.”, MC answered as Mammon answered, “Obviously yes, I mean who wouldn’t want to date the great Mammon everyone would be blessed to date me.” “Dumbass.”, she mumbled into his chest “..my dumbass,” she added as they spent a few more moments outside.

[maryb121813]

Wiped Memories.

This fic was based on the theory that MC had her memory wiped after her year in Devildom was up and Mammon is trying to reconnect with her through the game. I hope you enjoy this, comments are always welcomed.

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Evangeline didn't feel right and it's been a year since she woke up from the hospital. The doctors and nurses told her she has been in a coma for a year. Her mom had found her in her apartment, collapsed and unresponsive. They still don't know why she was in a coma and all of her tests over the months were normal.

She laid in her bed listening to the sound of her alarm screaming at her. She slowly sat up and looked around the room for the millionth time. Everything was normal but didn't feel like home. Something was missing from her memory, from her life, that she couldn't remember.

She needed to get ready for work. Her family told her it was her dream job, but it didn't feel right anymore. She remembers everything that concerns her job, but she wasn't as happy as everyone was telling her she was when she got her job.

She was about to get in the shower when her phone buzzed, notifying her. She looked at it, her brows furrowed, as it was a game notification, for a game she didn't download. The game was called Obey Me! and it looked to be a dating sim. She shrugged her shoulders and headed off to the shower.

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All-day her phone buzzed nonstop. At first, it was bearable, but it was always someone named Mammon trying to get her to open the app and play the game. 

As soon as she got home she chucked the phone on her bed and took off her work clothes and got into her comfy golden brown lounge pants and a white t-shirt, then headed off to her kitchen to brew some chamomile tea.

“Hey, hey, hey, The Great Mammon, is here.” her phone belted out from her room.

“Grrr, that’s it! I’m removing the battery and getting a new phone in the morning before work.” she jogged to her room and snatched up her phone.

The game was open and loading, she was about to close the app, when his face popped up, saying “Obey Me! One master to rule them all.”

His tan skin looked like it was glowing, his white hair looked soft to the touch, his smile comforted her for some reason, but what drew her most was his blue eyes. She knew it was game, but they seem to hold so much love and tenderness.

She slowly sat down n her bed as the opening video, each one of the men’s faces seemed familiar to her. She just couldn’t remember where she saw them.

Was it at the supermarket? The mall? A fashion magazine? Cooking show? She thought, but she just couldn’t place them.

As she went through the game, every task and lesson seemed like she lived it. From Lucifer lecturing them, to Asmo flirting with her, to Beel eating all the food during breakfasts. She felt like she sat in Levi’s room and played games and watched anime with him. Her fingertips feel like they held books with Satan in the library, and her lap felt warm from Belphie falling asleep on her.

But what felt all too real, was Mammon’s attitude towards her, how protective he was to her whenever his brothers tried anything with her, how warm his cheeks felt as a blush colored them. How panicked he got whenever Lucifer caught him in a lie or stealing or trying to prank him. 

Evangeline was so engrossed in the game, she didn’t hear the knock on her door. As she continued to play, the rapping kept getting louder and stronger and more persistent, then silence.

A notification popped up, saying she got a message. She tapped on the bubble, taking her to her in-game messages. It was from Mammon.

Mammon: Hey

Mammon: Open the door.

She waited for her turn to reply but the box didn’t give her options. A loud bang made her jump, making her drop her phone to the bed. She looked over in the direction of her front door, then back down at her phone.

Mammon: Open the door, damn it!

She ran towards the door and touched the doorknob but hesitated to open it. She bit her lip, wondering if it was to game developer messing with her.

“Evangeline, I know you’re there.” she felt a soft thud against the door, “Please, Evan, I need to see you.”

That was all it took for her to make up her mind. She slowly turned the knob, the door slowly swung inward and there stood the man who has been all over her phone screen.

He stood with his hands on either side of the door frame, his head hung low showing her his soft white locks. He was wearing the same outfit as in the game. His signature brown and white jacket with a black t-shirt, denim jeans with golden yellow belt and tassel and black biker boots. His golden sunglasses partially covered his blue eyes.

“Mammon?” Evangeline whispered

Whatever control he had was lost once she whispered his name. He took his hands away from the door and grasped her face and capturing her lips in a hot and passion filled kiss. Evangeline’s eyes grew wide, as he kissed her furiously. 

All of a sudden her eyes rolled back into her head and slowly closed as memories flooded back to the whole year she spent with the demon brothers. All the lessons and lectures with Lucifer, having anime marathons with Levi, long nights studying at the library with Satan, shopping with Asmo, snacking with Beel and Belphie napping they ate. Most of all she remembers falling in love with the demon in her apartment. 

Most of all she remembers falling in love with the demon in her apartment. His awful and expensive cologne filled surrounding the air, his thumbs rubbed against her jawline, his fingers gripped the back of her back, holding her still as he continued to kiss her.

She lifted her hands and placed them on his wrists to get his attention. He makes some grunting sound, rejecting her request. She moved her hands to his chest and gently pushed against him.

He reluctantly let go of her lips. “What the hell are you doing? Here I am, The Great Mammon, showing you how much I missed you and wanted to touch you this past year and here you are, a lowly human, pushing the great me away. Why are you stopping me?” he said.

“Mammon, you really are here, aren’t you?” tears started welling up in her eyes. 

His demeanor soften to her tears, “Yeah Evan, I’m here." He slide his hand through her hair, trying to calm her down. "I spent the whole day trying to get you to play the game so you could remember us, but I mostly wanted you to remember me and what I should've started way before you left."

"Which was?" She sniffled.

"That I want you to be mine. I don't want to let you go again, will you come back to Devildom with me and stay forever?" He asked.

Evangeline almost started bawling, she vigorously nodded her head. He gave her a big grin and wrapped his arms around her waist, lifting her up and spinning her around the room.

"I promise you'll be happy and never want to leave me again!" he declared.

She laughed and cried tears of joy.

"Ahem! Mammon quit hogging Evangeline, we all want to cuddle with her too you know!" Whined a familiar voice.

Mammon stopped dead in his trials as Evangeline looked over and saw Asmo with his arms crossed against his chest, Beel, Belphie, Satan, Levi and Lucifer all stood in the hallway outside her apartment each other biting at the bit to get to her.

Mammon gave a groan and slowly set her back on her feet but didn't let go of her hand as all the demon brothers came in and captured her in one big hug. The brothers held her so tight, she had to squeeze Mammon's hand so he could help her.

"Hey, hey, hey that's enough, she can't breathe." He said yanking on their arms and shoulders.

"Alright guys, let's get going." Said Lucifer, "There'll be plenty of time to smother Evangeline when we get back." He smiled, making all the guys release her and start heading out of the place.

"Lucifer what about everything here?" She asked.

"What do you mean dear one?"

"What's going to happen to everything I've been doing here for the past year? And the apartment? I can't exactly pay for breaking the lease and my job?"

"Oh those? Those were only temporary, we were coming back for you anyways. I just didn't want you losing faith in us if we didn't get you in a timely manner." He gave a wicked grin.

She wasn't expecting that answer, her mouth hung open at the pure shock and awe of the whole thing. Lucifer placed his hand under her chin and pushed her mouth close.

"Close your mouth dear one, you might catch a fly." His eyes shifted towards Mammon, "Or that warning came a little too late." He said with a smile and turned away.

Mammon and Evangeline stared at Lucifer as he walked away.

"Hey!" Mammon finally shouted after his brother was long gone.

"Ah geez. Whatever, it doesn't matter. " he looked over at her and held out his hand, "You ready to go home?"

She smiled, "Yeah, I am." She took his hand and gave it a small squeeze.

He smiled back and they both walked out the building and back to Devildom, without letting go of one another.

[vannahfanfics]

@mynameistakenhavethisinstead So... I sat down to write your GrayLu holiday request, and... It ended up becoming something else entirely! ^.^” Because I am not one to short my requestees, you’ll still get your GrayLu request (which is why I answered this outside of the physical ask) so, uh. Just have this one on the house, I guess? Lmao

Forever Begins Here

Category: General Fluff

Characters: Lucy Heartfilia

Lucy’s coffee-colored eyes glistened with the reflection of the bright, merry, and undeniably Fairy Tail-esque array of multicolored fairy lights strung at the guild entrance. They were a nice compliment to the dull and gray winter that had been plaguing the city for the last several days; though the steely clouds hung oppressively low to smother the earth in a perpetual, seeping chill and deliver puffy white snowflakes onto the already buried community, the twinkling bulbs brought holiday cheer in the form of red, yellow, green, and blue soft glowing light that kaleidoscoped across the white snow. Lucy stood a moment in front of the guild to simply admire the beautiful display that had literally appeared overnight. It really was the simplest of things in life that made it worth getting up every day, she mused with a small smile before charging into the guild.

As usual, the guild chorused with raucous greeting at her entrance, as was custom. Lucy barely noticed because her eyes were alight attempting to absorb every ounce of holiday cheer that had been applied to the buildings interior. To keep from being overly gaudy, white fairy lights instead of colored ones were on display, wrapped around every column and trailing over every banister. Pine garland complimented it in certain areas, notably demarking the second-floor balustrade. Lucy had tracked half-melted snow onto a thick, downy, bouncy red rug that sprawled across the floor and traveled up the steps to likely puddle across that wooden floor in cherry-red bliss; with a light giggle, she stepped onto it and so wished she could pull of her shoes to feel it with her bare feet, because it was simply so pillowy and the fibers looked as soft as featherdown. Beside the entrance were two large copper vases stuffed to bursting with red poinsettias, and a garland of holly stretched over the doorframe. To complete the ambiance, a roaring fire was blazing in the guild’s massive fireplace to steep the wide room in cozy warmth. To Lucy, Fairy Tail was homier than ever before.

She pranced down the aisle to notice that the holiday decorations were still far from complete, as various members were hard at work applying decorations elsewhere. Mirajane and her siblings were adorning her bar with what looked like hand-made paper snowflakes, which were being produced at length by Asuka and Romeo, who wore matching beaming smiles as they attacked the folded papers with scissors to produce one-of-a-kind patterns. Cana was going about the room setting holiday-scented candles of many a variety on each table to create little bubbles of cheery aroma- peppermint, gingerbread, candied apple, sugar cookie, and those were just the ones she smelled as she walked by. It was all so festive and fun, and Lucy dearly wished that she would’ve arrived earlier so she could’ve joined in.

“Lucy! You’re just in time!” Levy called to her from her seat beside Gajeel. Lucy trotted over to the girl with a cheerful greeting before inquiring what she was just in time for. “Erza, Gray, and Natsu should be here with the tree soon.” Not a moment after did the blue-haired girl speak did the guild hall’s door fling open with monstrous ferocity. Lucy looked over her shoulder to catch Natsu’s tufts of pink hair peeking out from a massive expanse of pine needles. Lucy watched in mild concern as Natsu shook himself out of the needles, gasping for breath, before gripping onto the trunk of the trees with bulging muscles.

“You’re not getting the best o’ me, you damn tree! Ahhhhhhh!” He yelled, literally spitting fire from his mouth as he feet slipped uselessly over the floor while he attempted to haul the gigantic specimen into the guild. Lucy smiled in bemusement. Leave it to Natsu to spice things up…

“Hey! Stop breathing fire everywhere! If you catch it on fire, Wendy will cry!” Levy accused him from her spot at the table and pointed at the sky dragon-slayer. Sure enough, she had her hands balled up at her chest as she watched with great anxiety, tears even brimming in her big round eyes. Natsu flushed from head to toe and grumbled something under his breath, but obediently ceased his flame-spouting. Shifting positions to try and get better leverage, he buried his arms up to his shoulders into the pine tree. With another guttural roar, he yanked hard, and the tree came bursting into the guild hair with exceptional force. Little did Natsu know that Gray had blasted the back end with swirling icy wind, aided by Erza with a powerful glae from her flashing swords, so it was really questionable whether Natsu really aided in the process or not. The wood around the door splintered as it was stretched beyond capacity to fit the wide girth of the pine tree, which was now skidding across the guild hall with reckless abandon right to where Levy, Gajeel, and Lucy were sitting.

The both screamed in alarm as the tree shot towards them like a massive green bullet, trying to scramble away; the tree was simply gargantuan and would swallow them up no matter which way they ran. “I love you Levy!” Lucy wailed as she threw her arms around her best friend, pitifully crying tears.

“I love you too, Lucy! I wish I could’ve finished reading your next novel draft!” Levy whined in lament. Behind them, Gajeel rolled his eyes before plucking them both up by the backs of their shirts. The two girls released their hug as he plopped each of them on either of his broad shoulders, then grunted and reared back to pull up a combat-booted leg and plow it directly into the top of the tree. Despite his brawny form, he was actually pushed back a good deal across the guild hall, but due to all the friction and resistance, the tree slowly came to a stop. Gajeel grunted as he disentangled his leg from the gigantic tree, as it had sunk nearly up his thigh. Levy squealed as she sat on his shoulder like a little parrot, hugging his head and nuzzling into his spiky dark hair. “Ah, Gajeel, thank you! I thought I was a goner.” Gajeel blushed a salmon color and looked away bashfully.

“Well, you’re small, so…” he grumbled under his breath. Lucy chuckled under her breath at their impossibly cute interaction before patting his back and hopping down with a similar gratuitous remark, just in time for Erza and the two boys to walk across the crammed-together, flipped-over guild tables to marvel at their prize.

“Now we just have to put it up and then we can decorate it!” Gray remarked. His shirt had been lost in the exchange somewhere, though if it was while hunting for the tree or the debacle that had just occurred, Lucy wasn’t for sure. At the mention of the most basic of holiday traditions, Lucy clasped her hands together at her chest and gasped in delight.

“Oh, yay! I’ve never gotten to decorate a tree before!” Lucy could hear the record screech as all the noise suddenly died in the guild and dozens of eyes became centered on her in utter horror. A blush rose to her cheeks in slight mortification; she knew decorating a tree was a normal holiday tradition, but really, was she the only one who had never done it? She shrunk into herself as Gray hopped down from the table to look at her incredulously.

“Really, Lucy? Never?” he hissed in a mixture of shame and pity. Lucy puffed out her cheeks at the interrogation.

“Never… My father always insisted that it was too frivolous and made the servants do it…” she admitted meekly. Now that she said it aloud, it was pretty sad. At least half the guild whipped around clutching their hearts while tears streamed down their faces, while the other half crowded around to hug the very confused and slightly pissed-off blonde. Mirajane tutted as she pulled Lucy into her chest while snuggling her chin into Lucy’s hair.

“Oh, dear… How tragic… Get this tree up at once! Lucy is gonna lead us in decorating this tree, top to bottom!” she suddenly barked in a tone that indicated that she was dangerously close into tapping into her demonic alter ego. With yelps of “yes ma’am!” the grew scattered across the tree, trying to riddle out some way to heft the massive thing into standing position. In the end they decided to situate Wendy at the peak to blast its front end upward with her sky dragon-slayer magic, and the rest of them would keep the momentum so that the tree nestled upright in the corner of the guild. Wendy sucked in a deep breath to the point that her chest swelled to painful capacity before releasing her Sky Dragon’s Roar at such an angle that the tree’s end skyrocketed up. It actually went pretty high, up to about a sixty degree angle, before it threatened to come crashing down. That’s when the rest of them went to scaffolding it with all manners of their magic, pushing up against its thick trunk until it finally rested in the proper position. Standing beneath it, Lucy could not help but be enthralled; it really was the perfect tree, towering over all of them with just enough room between its single-branch summit and the roof to place an adornment. Though Lucy’s forte was in the aesthetic of words, her mind also was not lacking in the creativity of décor, and her mind began to swim ecstatically with various ways to arrange baubles and ribbons and ornaments on the gargantuan pine tree.

“Okay, Lucy! Let’s get to work,” Gray mused as he walked by her to grab her in a tight but affectionately comfortable headlock, tousling his fist into her hair. Someone had probably scolded him for walking around half-naked, because he was now wearing his overcoat. Not even bothered by his wrestler’s grip, she smiled giddily as she saw the guild members dragging out countless boxes filled with decorations that had accumulated over the years.

With Lucy at the helm, they began decorating the tree- though of course, the Celestial Mage participated plenty in the physical aspect of the event. They began by stringing more fairy lights to the tree, sticking with plain white bulbs that flickered like stars from deep within the branches. Then they applying round bauble ornaments to the tree. The largest ones, which were hung at the base of the herculean plant, has such an incredible circumference that Lucy couldn’t even wrap her arms completely around them. To compliment the red rug and the flickering white fairy lights and the pine garland, Lucy elected for a tri-color arrangement of red, white, and green. The covered the tree in the circular ornaments, using the Exceeds to fly to the top of course, but left plenty of space for some more fun flair. The kitty-like creatures found massive spools of ribbon, and were more than happy to zoon about draping the sheer white glittery trimming over the branches (with some left over to play with after!). Lucy found with delight a set of milky-white glass tailed fairy ornaments, most likely in honor of their beautiful and kind founder Mavis, and so they hung them at strategic gaps in the foliage, as well as sets of crystal stars and red-and-green holly ornaments. Finally, when every space in the tree was stuffed to capacity, it was time for the final piece- the tree topper. It was just a generic angel figurine, but Lucy hesitated to put it atop the pine tree as an artistic vision stirred in her mind when she spotted a plan wreath.

“Hold on a minute!” she cried as she dashed off into one of the guild’s hall where they had hung a corkboard. Mirajane had installed the small panel for them to post pictures on, and though it had only been hung a few months or so, the thing was so smothered in photographs that a plan had been enacted to fill the entire hall with corkboards to create a grand display. Lucy plucked photos from the board one by one, aiming for every guild member to be represented, and even found an old photo of the founders, with a sweet, beaming Mavis in the middle, practically glowing like an angel herself. Snickering to herself, Lucy scampered back to her very curious guild members to kneel down in front of the wreath and begin clamping the photographs to its stems with small clothespins. Once she was finished, she held it up in triumph, though wobbled a bit as it was nearly as large as herself. “Ta-da!”

“Oh, Lucy, it’s so beautiful,” Juvia whispered as she marveled at it, tears brimming in her navy blue eyes. Levy was crying silently as she nodded in approval. Gray and Natsu both snickered and threw their arms around her slim shoulders, with Gray affectionately rubbing her hair again. The Exceeds flew around it with glee, with Happy pointing and naming everyone he could. The Master, who had been watching the proceedings the entire time, smiled softly and nodded in approval.

“I couldn’t ask for a more perfect centerpiece for our work of art. Am I right?” he mused and stroked his mustache. The guild chorused in an earth-shaking roar of approval.

“RIGHT!” Lucy hugged the wreath to herself, tears flooding her own brown eyes with overwhelming joy that they cherished her little creation so much. With a guiding hand on the small of her back, Gray turned her back to face the tree and, with a flourish of his hand, fashioned her a set of icy stairs up to its peak.

“Go for it, Lucy,” he smiled softly down at her. Though she had her back turned, she knew the rest of the guild was wearing the same look. Like she was a fairy aflight, she ascended the stairs with her toes barely skimming the surface of the ice, like a fleeting winter wind rushing to the heavens. When she arrived at the top, she hefted the massive wreath over her head before settling it into the pine branches, giving it a little shake about to ensure it was secure before turning around with a gleeful shout. The stairs beneath her feet suddenly morphed into a slide, and with a shocked scream her legs went out from under her. She zipped down until a small bump sent her airborne, and she landed unsteadily on her feet, wobbling around while pinwheeling her arms. With a mischievous smirk dancing on his face, Gray steadied her with hands at her waist. She made a face at him, but couldn’t be too mad, because it was all in the spirit of fun, of course. He then whirled her around so that she could meet her masterpiece, and all the breath left Lucy’s lungs.

Enchantingly gorgeous was the only way that Lucy would ever be able to describe it. The soft glow of the fairy lights reflected off the shiny surfaces of the various ornaments to create sparkling glints against the deep green of the pine needles. The little fairies seemed to be fluttering as the light played over them, and the crystal stars absorbed the light to glow with a pulsing luminosity of their own. The rich tones of the red and vibrant hue of the green complimented the striking white well. At the crown of the tree, all their happy, smiling faces beamed down, with the beloved smile of their founder Mavis outshining them all. A single tear rolled down Lucy’s cheek as she beheld it, and then she put her hand over her heart as it clenched with more joy than words could ever express.

“You guys… Let’s do this again next year, okay? And the next, and the next… Forever…” she sniffled.

“Of course!” they hollered before jumping forward to envelop Lucy in a crushing, smothering, suffocating and wonderful group hug. With her friends, her greatest treasures, enclosing her with tender arms, Lucy had never felt more loved. Her forever began right there, at that pivotal moment… Her forever with Fairy Tail.

Such was Lucy’s first time decorating a holiday tree, but it certainly was not her last…

Enjoy this oneshot? Feel free to peruse my Table of Contents!

Tag List: @searchfortheonepiece

[shikai-the-storyteller]

CYBERVERSE WATCH: S3 Episode 13, 14, 15, 16

Episode 13

MACCADAM IS MY GRANDPA NOW

Jetfire!!! And Skybite!!! Skybite’s got a great laugh

Oh wow the cloaking still protects them? Nice!

CAN SOMEONE PLEASE FIX PERCY’S EYES, WHERE THE FRICK IS RATCHET

A MULTIVERSE DRIVE???

PLEASE...PLEASE LET US SEE OTHER UNIVERSES??? OTHER UNIVERSES PLEASE????

SPARE SOME MULTIVERSE STUFF FOR A POOR SOUL???

I mean as it stands, the fact that Cyberverse is talking about this stuff is more than satisfying, man I frickin love this show

“We can launch those squiggly things into a whole ‘nother universe!” his delivery of that line was so good and also Wheeljack pls, then it’ll be another version of you’s problem

MEGATRON REALLY *IS* POUTING, MEGATRON YOU BIG BABY

Maccadam fondly but watching them talk about their battle plans makes me feel so bad for him...

AW MAN IS MEGATRON GONNA CHUCK OPTIMUS INTO A DIFFERENT UNIVERSE

About time you showed up you big pouting pansy

Man these two totally were ex boyfriends

LMAO ARCEE AND SHADOW-STRIKER’S EVIL LAUGHS, THAT”S SO DELIGHTFUL

That Titan should just smack them out of the sky tbh

SKULLCRUNCHER THE CROC...NICE

I love that Soundwave and Roddy are manning the controls

“Commanders command. And you forget, we have backup” CUTE...CUTE....CUTE!!!

I’M SO PROUD OF MY BOYS!!!!!!

BEE!!!It’s been so long since I’ve seen you! I love my little yellow boy!!! Please take care of your dad Bee

OH NO IT”S CREEPY TENTACLE DOCTOR

GOTH GIRL AND PREP GIRL!!! 

MAN I JUST KNOW SOMETHING’S GOING TO GO HORRIFICALLY WRONG HERE

FRICK NOT THIS DUDE AGAIN

AW MAN NOT A WHOLE BUNCH AT ONCE

YEAAAHHHHH WHEELJACK AND MEGATRON WORKING TOGETHER!!! NICE

Two Decepticons and one Autobot...not a good sign

Oh shoot it’s the DECEPTICONS who wanna universe-jump, MEGATRON COME ON DUDE YOU DIDN’T EVEN TAKE YOUR ARMY WITH YOU DUMMY

OH NO!!!!!!

“It’s time for the commanders to join the battle” MAN YOU’RE SO COOL RODDY (YOU TOO SOUNDWAVE)

OH SHOOT THERE GOES THE TOWER

WELL FRICK

DON”T “WE DID IT” HOT ROD YOUR DAD IS IN THAT WRECKAGE

“Quintessons: Inferior. Cybertronians: Superior” MAN I”LL NEVER GET TIRED OF THAT

HE”S SO COOL!!!!! FIST BUMP BUDDIES!!! Man I’m so over the moon that these two wound up getting along

You know I’m suddenly having a revelation: I wonder if they could somehow re-activate all those other Soundwaves to help them against the (inevitable) final battle I’m sure they’re gonna have

WHAT THE FRICK

ARE YOU FRICKIN KIDDING ME

Starscream: CANCELED, CANCELED, YOU”RE ALL CANCELED

Well, Megatron certainly got the heck out of dodge at the right time lmao

Episode 14

I legit thought they were going to do an ATLA ref for half a second

Oh my gosh is this an Autobot recruitment video???

“The universe. You ever thought about it?” GOSH THIS VIDEO....

I’m frickin cackling, the Quintessons were like “Hmm, what’s the worst thing we could possibly inflict on this planet?” then went “Oh, of course, Starscream”

WHY DIDN”T YOU JUST LET GO STARSCREAM

Wow Starscream really did just sell out his entire planet huh

SOUNDWAVE NO!!!!! JEEZ HE GOT EVERYONE

Jeez and Starscream has to share with two other faces, that sucks

Lmao Starscream is just like “Nah judging people is what I was born for”

UNSPACE??? UH OK

WAIT isn’t that what Wheeljack made a few episodes ago????

LMAO HE’S GONNA WAIT TIL HE CAN GET OPTIMUS AND MEGATRON TOO bless Starscream and his pettiness

“First I must witness their humiliation!” STARSCREAM PLEASE the Quintessons really got the worst Judge

OHHH WHAT’S HE GONNA DO

SOUNDWAVE YOU’RE SO POWERFUL!!!!!

OH NO HE GOT THEM AGAIN....

GOSH I ACTUALLY GASPED WHEN THEY BROKE SOUNDWAVE’S AUDIO THING, NO!!!

“Well, it did for one of us, and it only takes one Autobot to make a difference” Bee? Whirl??? Wheeljack???

WINDBLADE!!! EVEN BETTER!!! The person with the braincell!!!

I love that Rodimus doesn’t even look worried, he just sighs like “aw man not this loser again”

On the one hand: Worried about my boys On the other: Man I love these two being buds

Also: Not To Be That Guy But it looks like Soundwave’s wearing white thigh-highs with little orange hearts on them and it’s VERY distracting

“You two work so well together!!!” OH NO OH NO OH NO ARE THEY GONNA FUSE THEM TOGETHER OR SOMETHING

THOSE HEAD MASKS ARE SO DISTURBING

uh oh what kind of loop is this

THE PLAGUE OF RUST OH NO

oh my gosh STARSCREAM’S MAKING THEM DO A BUFFING LOOP...THAT’S REALLY THE WORST THING YOU COULD THINK OF STARSCREAM....

“WHERE ARE MEGATRON AND OPTIMUS PRIME” well Optimus is under a pile of concrete, so

Lmao thank you for your peanut-gallery commentary Kup

OH SHOOT THEY DID JUMP THROUGH THE MULTIVERSE BRIDGE

MAN THAT LOOKS SO FRICKIN COOL???? YO SHOUTOUT TO THE BACKGROUND ARTISTS WHO WORKED ON THIS SHOW, YOU ROCK

SERIOUSLY IM IN LOVE WITH THAT I hope whoever did the background art shares their work online sometime, I’ll be ALL over that

AHH I ALWAYS FORGET HOW SHORT THESE EPISODES ARE

Excuse me, Jeremy Levy as WHO???

Episode 15

Kup you are an...interesting commentator choice lmao

MACCADAM..... :(

Windblade please save our favorite Grandpa

wINDBLADE!

HOW’S IT FEEL BEING THE COOLEST KID ON THE BLOCK WINDBLADE

Wait I *JUST* noticed the title calls this “Bumblebee: Cyberverse Adventures” ???? IS THAT NEW

CALL ME A SUCKER BUT WINDBLADE CRACKING HER NECK AND TELLING THE LITTLE SHARK DUDES TO BRING IT ON WAS QUITE POSSIBLY ONE OF THE BEST MOMENTS OF THE SERIES SO FAR

Windblade: *does anything* Me: IM GAY

“I don’t do fear” GOSH I LOVE MY TALENTED GIRL

OH NO!!! OH NO!!!! WINDBLADE NO!!!!!

AND HER WINGS TOO??? WHY!!!!

MACCADAM HELP HER OUT COME ON DUDE WHAT HAPPENED TO NO FIGHTING

lmao rip at the dude crushed by the juke box

Wait I thought they already woke up Iaconus??

YEAH!!!!!!!! MACCADAM AND WINDBLADE TEAMING UP

“UNFORGIVABLE CRIMES AGAINST ME!” LMAO I LOVE THAT LITERALLY EVERYONE IS TUNING OUT STARSCREAM get rekt Starscream.

Not to rag on people who like Starscream because I like him too but me @ Starscream stans tbh 

You guys just need to hold hands! I mean seriously, come on you guys!

STARSCREAM QUINTESSONS OMG I just noticed they’re all wearing Starscream’s colors pffft

AW.....MACCADAM’S FIRST HIGH-FIVE....:’) I bet Windblade and Maccadam both give the best hugs and best high-fives 

They’re so cute MAN I love Cyberverse!!!! I love how sweet these characters are!!!

A psychic trap??? Hoo boy

Windblade: How do I defeat this psychic trap? Maccadam: Well, it would help if you had any bug or dark-type Pokemon on you.

“Or you could just tell me!” I JUST SAID THAT TOO LMAO gosh I love the writing on this show

OHHH I LOVE THE CONTRAST OF IACONUS’ BRAIN WITH BEE’S BRAIN IN SEASON ONE, THAT”S SO GOOD

OH LMAO HE MEANT HER SWORD I thought he meant like “your inner-strength” or “your wisdom” NO HE MEANT “USE YOUR SWORD WINDBLADE” LOL

OHHH SPOOKY VOICE, I DIG IT

Wow Starscream’s really reading out his 1000 page long call-out post to a captive audience

LMAO THEY”RE JUST LISTING OUT DATE LOCATIONS

CHROMIA IS SO CUTE!!!!!!!! AHHH

OH NO ARCEE!!!!

I LOVE ARCEE, “HIT ME WITH YOUR BEST SHOT YOU BASTARD”

OH SHOOT JK I GUESS THEY REALLY DIDN”T TOTALLY WAKE HIM  UP LAST TIME I was wondering why he was just an arm

TITAN TIME!!!

Episode 16

To toast the flares off a neutron star....cute....

Wouldn’t it be cute if Kup was telling this story to a bunch of baby Cybertronians

Awh....Maccadam I’m sorry your old Titan had to re-awaken :(

“Too bad I won’t know how it ends” OH NO ARE YOU GUYS GONNA KILL OFF MACCADAM???? NO!!!!

Iaconus looks frickin RAD I’m sure Hasbro will make a killing off his toys

Speaking of I really hope they release Cyberverse on DVD in a bundle-pack

“War Titan, do NOT ignore me!” YEAH USE YOUR MOM VOICE ON HIM WINDBLADE!!!

LOVE THAT ROCK MUSIC

“This has never happened before” now THERE’S an interesting tidbit

OH NO....ITS THE OTHER TITAN....CROATON....

on the one hand, I’m SO glad we’re getting the Titan battle I crave, but on the other, CROATON NO!!!

TRIFORCE BEAM!!!

I love that Windblade is Jaeger-ing this frickin Titan solo

WHOOPS THERE GOES THE STADIUM

“Optimus had a fight of his own...with gravity!” oh how the mighty have fallen Optimus lmao

I wonder how this wonky universe would handle a flier

JUST THROW A BUILDING AT A TITAN, NBD

SOMEONE PLEASE CATCH ARCEE

THANKS GRIMLOCK

THERE’S RATCHET Finally, I was wondering where he was

“Well it’s not my fault this won’t be a fair fight” OH SHOOT THERE IT IS!!! THERE IT IS

I can’t believe Starscream is trying to back-seat drive this fight lmao

SOUNDWAVE NO!!!! Oh thank goodness they’re ok

OH NO OH NO

IS THIS IT IS HE GONNA DIE?? MAC DONT GIVE IN TO FATE!!!  NO!!!

MAC NO!!!!!!!!!! MAC YOU DIDN”T HAVE TO DIE NO!!! YOU LITERALLY DID NOT HAVE TO STAND THERE AND GET BLASTED WHY DID YOU DO THAT!!!!!!!

“My last citizen...he is gone” FRICK IM GONNA START CRYING

Quints > Murdered Croaton's citizens most likely > Enslave Croaton > Inadvertently kill Iaconus' last citizen (WHICH HURT BECAUSE WE'RE MADE TO ASSUME IACONUS ONLY CARES ABOUT WAR BUT NO, HE LOVES HIS CITIZENS DEEP DOWN) > BEHEAD IACONUS LIKE, WHY YOU GOTTA STAB ME IN THE HEART LIKE THIS

Wheeljack you’re so smart but ALSO IM STILL CRYING OVER MACCADAM

“Hehe, you’re a nasty little fella” NICE JOB COWBOY

OH NO ALL THE SOUNDWAVES DANGIT I KNEW IT

AND HE”S A BIG LIAR HE DID HAVE SOME BLUE SOUNDWAVES

OH NO WHAT ABOUT WINDBLADE

HECK THAT”S SUCH A BAD PLACE TO STOP BUT I CANT WATCH ANY MORE EPISODES RN I GOTTA STAGGER THIS SERIES

[petrischronicles]

Blonde at 10 ‘o’clock

It wasn’t very often that the two besties got to just hang out anymore and relax.  Between work, school, and just life, conflicting schedules kept them apart save for text messages and social media.  So finally, and lucky for them it was a perfect day for it, the beach sounded like a great idea.  Get a tan…  Catch up on gossip…  Simply let the stresses melt away under the sun.  

They settled in the center of the beach near the life guard shack and had been lounging for a couple hours by the time shift change had arrived.  Levy was rambling about some new guy she just met.  A lot taller than her, singer in a band, long spiky black hair, tattoos and piercings…  “What is with you and those grungy guys Lev?”

The mousy young woman shrugs her shoulders, “I just like ‘um,” giggling, “It looks funny when we’re together, cause I only come up to his chest!”  

Lucy’s friend moves on to the first time she saw Gajeel performing…  She listens, for the most part until her attention falls on some new eye candy walking towards the lifeguard tower.  As her eyes follow the man, her friends voice drones out and is replaced by the sound of her heart beat fluttering.  

She bites the corner of her lip, ‘Hot damn!  That guy is fine!’  The young man walks with a certain air of confidence and smooth cadence in his stride; which walking in sand with slippers is no easy feat to pull off.  He dons the typical lifeguard uniform of the red and yellow surf shorts and matching tank top, but wears it well; the muscles of his back flexing, solid biceps, and unflinching calf muscles; he was totally, a surfer boy dreamboat!  Wild salmon colored hair… she sighs, wishing she could see his eyes that are hidden behind a pair of sunglasses.  

He shakes the hand of the other dark-haired lifeguard, who she notices has the same symbol tattoo, maybe a frat mark or something?  It’s clear that these two know each other well as a goofy grin takes over his face; she turns her head, so she can listen in better to their conversation.  “Mellow wave action…  first time on this beach…  Toothache…  Blue, 2 ‘o’clock.  White, 4 ‘o’clock…  Guarantee cavity…  Blonde, 10 ‘o’clock…  yeah, no root canal so far…  hang out later…”  Fist bumping, the darker males takes his leave and the heartthrob pulls himself up the ladder.  ‘I wonder what they were talking about…’

“Lu?”

“Huh?  Oh, sorry, you were saying?”

Levy giggles, “You have no idea what I was talking about do you?”  She looks up at the tower and smirks.  “Too busy checking out the hottie lifeguard?”

“I…” red blotches pop up on Lucy’s chest and face.  “… thought I recognized him from somewhere.”

“Oh yeah…” Levy cocks her head, “I think I know where.”

“Where?”  Expecting her friend to say high school or maybe college.

“In your dreams!”

“Oomph!  You!” Lucy starts tickling he friend.  “Take it back!”

“No… way!” Levy shrieks.  “Better stop it Lu…  you’re gonna attract his attention…”

She turns and looks and sure enough he is staring at them…  well she thinks he is, at least in their direction but it’s kinda hard to tell with those damn sunglasses on!  She stops tickling her friend.  “You win this time Lev…”  When she looks again, he’s grinning; she had caught his eye.

~~x~~

‘Mellow day, huh?  If that’s the case I’m gonna…’  Just as he’s closing his eyes he hears a shriek and looks over at 10 ‘o’clock.  ‘Damn Gray was right…’  The blonde was tickling her friend…  something…  ‘take it back’…  ‘attract his attention’…  he grins a little, ‘I bet they’re talking about me…’  

This is exactly why he and his friend had come up with a simple code back in high school, so it would be harder to figure out they were talking about girls.  This system generally worked for them, and came in handy with the profession they had chosen.  Think about it, checking out the lovely ladies helped to pass the time, and they encountered a lot of them on a beach.  

It was a simple ranking really, toothache meant pretty, cavity was gorgeous girls, and root canals were rare but was reserved for supermodel status chicks.  This girl was a cavity alright, and she looked awfully fine in the skimpy red bikini she was wearing…

Levy giggles and pokes her friend’s chest, “I bet he’s ogling your goodies Lu.”

“Shut up!” Lucy protests through a gritted smile, but if the darkening patches on her cheeks are any indication; she secretly hopes he is!  

“Well, I’m gonna tan,” Levy lays on her back and throws a pair of shades on.  “Wake me up if anything good happens.”

Lucy lies on her stomach, “Yeah sure…” and grabs a book out of her bag.  

Picking up from where she had bookmarked earlier, she starts to read, hoping to get into the story and her mind off the handsome lifeguard…  

“…Oh yeah, so you think this will work?” he models the outfit for her.  The shirt is a white collared button down half sleeve that still shows off his muscular arms, a little tight in the chest area but with his body shape it was very sexy.  Dark gray slacks and black dress shoes complete the look.  He left the first couple of buttons open revealing a smooth chest underneath…  

Images of a pink haired guy all dressed up and she the girl on his arm invade Lucy’s mind.  She shakes her head trying to erase them like an etch-a-sketch as she reads on.  

…Lying in bed she ponders over the day. ‘I can’t believe I let him stay here, what was I thinking?  You’re attracted to him that’s why.  Hush conscious!  Okay so he is kinda dreamy, he’s just as goofy as…, kinda self-centered but still sweet, and a little brighter in the intellectual department which is nice.  He sure knows how to sweet talk a girl too…. Okay that’s enough I need to get to sleep already!’

Sighing she turns over on her side, hugging her pillow till she falls asleep.  A couple of hours later she wakes up feeling like someone’s in the bed with her.  She realizes there’s an arm around her waist, so she turns her head and sees blonde hair.  

“What are you doing in my bed!?” Realizing she can see his bare chest, “Oh my God and your naked!” she yells as she turns red.  “I was lonely on the couch, so I came in here.” He murmurs.  “You’re nice and warm baby…” he falls back asleep…  

The sounds of giggling capture her attention and she looks up from her book, over to see two girls trying to flirt with the lifeguard.  Not wanting to stare she watches out of her side view and tries to listen in…

~~x~~

Once 10 ‘o’clock settles down with a book, Natsu leans back in his chair admiring the view.  The curves on the creamy blonde just screamed for attention, ‘maybe I could offer to put lotion on her…’ he smirks to himself.  Never mind those skinny models, no give him a girl with an hourglass and this one was a perfect 10 in his eyes; boobs, hips and ass with a slim waist and long toned legs.  

The fact she was reading a book was a plus to him.  He may not be a reader, but he’d rather date a girl with intelligence too.  ‘Yup,’ the smirk grows, ‘definitely need to introduce myself later…’  When a couple of girls walk up trying to talk to him, he shuts them down nicely, “Nope, sorry…  Not interested…  Working here…”  All the while keeping his eyes trained on the blonde…

~~x~~

After reading the same passage three times, Lucy gives up.  Every time something remotely cute, romantic, or intimate comes up in the story her mind tried to substitute him into the story; in other words, blonde guy became guy with pink hair…  She sighs.  “Pst.  Levy…” Lucy pokes at her friend trying her best to stay quiet, “Levy….”

“Hmm, what is it?”

“He keeps looking over here…”

Her friend yawns, “Why don’t you just go talk to him?”

Lucy motions with her eyes, “No way I’m gonna join the parade of girls…” Levy looks over and sees what her friend is pointing out.  “That’s like the 6th or 7th so far, all in a row.  It’s like when one or two gives up, the next one tries.”

“And he still keeps looking over here?”

“He hasn’t stopped looking.”

“I don’t know what to tell ya Lu, are you hoping he makes a move first?”

“Actually… I came up with an idea…” she whispers the details to Levy, who’s struggling not to giggle.  “So, will you help me?”

“It’s a bit extreme, but if you wanna do it, I’ll help you…”

~~~

He sees 10 ‘o’clock and her friend whispering to themselves.  Something tells him, this chick ain’t gonna try to talk to him like all these others that keep coming.  But it has nothing to do with being shy, no, she strikes him as having plenty of confidence if she needs it.  

Maybe she’s waiting for a better opportunity?  Or maybe, she doesn’t want to be lumped in with these others.  He watches intently as the two girls get off their towels and head towards the surf; the waves might be mellow, but anything can happen in the blink of an eye…  

They wade out until the water is up to their chests.  “So now what Lu?”

“Patience…” she watches the man out of the corner of her eye, “we need to wait until he’s distracted.”

“Why?”

“Duh, cause, if he is still watching us, he’ll know if I wasn’t under water for very long.”  As they wait for the right opportunity to present itself, the two friends splash around and have a little fun.  

~~x~~

‘Man, I wish I was out there with them!’  Natsu must admit he’s a bit jealous; just because he’s a lifeguard doesn’t mean he gets to swim often and who wouldn’t want to go play with a pretty girl?  That’s just bonus!  

His mouth hangs open the longer he stares…  the sun glistening on her wet skin…  even from where he sits, he can see her big smile as she laughs and splashes her friend…  And the bounce of her, magnificent bosoms…  ‘Fuck!’  

“Natsu?”

“Huh?”  he looks down and sees a face he hasn’t seen in a while.  “Lis?”

“Yeah,” the girl smiles, “my brother said you were a lifeguard here.”

“Oh, uh-huh…” he looks back at the water to check on 10 ‘o’clock and sees her pop out of the water again.  She’s slicking back her wet hair…  ‘Fuck, she looks good soaking wet!’  To him it’s all moving in slow motion…  and the voice of this girl that’s talking to him drones out as images of he and the blonde, say in a shower…  tickle his mind…        

“So, I’m gonna be in town visiting for the week, would you like to hang out… like old times sakes?”

“Wait what?”  Old times sakes, all they were before was FTF’s.  He looks down at the girl in front of him.  “Are you saying what I think you’re saying?”

She nods, with a glimmer in her eye, “Why not…”

“Well…”  He whips his head to the sound of panicked screams and sees 10 ‘o’clocks friend turning her over in the water.  ‘Oh no!’  Chastising himself for not paying attention he grabs his buoy and leaps from the tower.  “Sorry, Lis but the answer is no,” and rushes into the waves.  

Luckily the girls weren’t out too far, but the blue-haired friend is terrified.  By the time Natsu reaches them she has the blonde face up and barely keeping the girls head afloat.  “Please help her!”

Natsu grabs the blonde from behind, with one arm snaked around her chest and the other helping him to cut through the surf.  “What happened?” he asks the rattled friend, doing his best to keep calm himself.  They may train for this scenario, but he’s let this become personal.  

“W-we were trying to see who could hold their breath the longest and…  I don’t know maybe she passed out under the water.  Oh my God please, don’t let her die!”

“Just stay calm…” by this point he’s got the blonde to the sand and is placing her on her back.  “Just stay back okay, give me room to work.”  Levy nods as a small crowd has begun to gather around them, including Lis.  

Natsu’s instincts and training kick in, he straddles her hips and leans down to see if he can hear water in her lungs; doesn’t seem like it.  Her heart is still beating, but she doesn’t seem to be taking in any air, so he begins mouth to mouth resuscitation.  Once, twice; the girls body is still limp, third time; fluttering under her eye lids, a fourth time…    

Without warning, arms wrap around his back, pulling him down and the CPR has turned into… a kiss!  Natsu’s eyes widen when he notices the chocolate orbs looking back up at him.  She smiles and runs her tongue along his lips to test his reaction…  That’s when he smiles too and reciprocates, parting his lips and allowing her tongue to venture in…  

Levy stands back smirking the whole time as a few flashes go off around her; it’s a guarantee these pictures are gonna end up on Instagram or something; lifeguard saves girl, girl thanks him with a lip-lock…  ‘Hopefully he doesn’t get in trouble…’  Behind her, another girl turns and walks away with her shoulders slumped…

~~~

After a couple minutes Natsu slowly pulls away, the biggest grin plastered on his face.  “That’s the best thanks I ever had for saving someone…” he leans next to her ear whispering, “But I know you were faking it.”

She grins back, “Just thought you could use a break from the other groupies.”

“So, what’s your name Princess?” He stands and holds out his hand.

With his help she gets to her feet, “Lucy, and yours?”

“Natsu,” he does an exaggerated bow, “at your service.”

“Hmm…” she runs her hand along his chest, “does that include night games?”

“Damn girl you are a fiery one!  That’s so freaking awesome!”

She laughs and softens her gaze suggestively, “Am I sweet enough to give you a cavity?”  His jaw drops; busted!

He pulls her back into his embrace, “Nah, I might need a root canal instead…”

[petri808]

Blonde at 10 o’clock

Also found on AO3

Lucy and Levy take a trip to the beach, when the handsome lifeguard becomes a complete distraction...

It wasn’t very often that the two besties got to just hang out anymore and relax.  Between work, school, and just life, conflicting schedules kept them apart save for text messages and social media.  So finally, and lucky for them it was a perfect day for it, the beach sounded like a great idea.  Get a tan…  Catch up on gossip…  Simply let the stresses melt away under the sun.  

They settled in the center of the beach near the life guard shack and had been lounging for a couple hours by the time shift change had arrived.  Levy was rambling about some new guy she just met.  A lot taller than her, singer in a band, long spiky black hair, tattoos and piercings…  “What is with you and those grungy guys Lev?”

The mousy young woman shrugs her shoulders, “I just like ‘um,” giggling, “It looks funny when we’re together, cause I only come up to his chest!”  

Lucy’s friend moves on to the first time she saw Gajeel performing…  She listens, for the most part until her attention falls on some new eye candy walking towards the lifeguard tower.  As her eyes follow the man, her friends voice drones out and is replaced by the sound of her heart beat fluttering.  She bites the corner of her lip, ‘Hot damn!  That guy is fine!’  The young man walks with a certain air of confidence and smooth cadence in his stride; which walking in sand with slippers is no easy feat to pull off.  He dons the typical lifeguard uniform of the red and yellow surf shorts and matching tank top, but wears it well; the muscles of his back flexing, solid biceps, and unflinching calf muscles; he was totally, a surfer boy dreamboat!  Wild salmon colored hair… she sighs, wishing she could see his eyes that are hidden behind a pair of sunglasses.  He shakes the hand of the other dark-haired lifeguard, who she notices has the same symbol tattoo, maybe a frat mark or something?  It’s clear that these two know each other well as a goofy grin takes over his face; she turns her head, so she can listen in better to their conversation.  “Mellow wave action…  first time on this beach…  Toothache…  Blue, 2 ‘o’clock.  White, 4 ‘o’clock…  Guarantee cavity…  Blonde, 10 ‘o’clock…  yeah, no root canal so far…  hang out later…”  Fist bumping, the darker males takes his leave and the heartthrob pulls himself up the ladder.  ‘I wonder what they were talking about…’

“Lu?”

“Huh?  Oh, sorry, you were saying?”

Levy giggles, “You have no idea what I was talking about do you?”  She looks up at the tower and smirks.  “Too busy checking out the hottie lifeguard?”

“I…” red blotches pop up on Lucy’s chest and face.  “… thought I recognized him from somewhere.”

“Oh yeah…” Levy cocks her head, “I think I know where.”

“Where?”  Expecting her friend to say high school or maybe college.

“In your dreams!”

“Oomph!  You!” Lucy starts tickling he friend.  “Take it back!”

“No… way!” Levy shrieks.  “Better stop it Lu…  you’re gonna attract his attention…”

She turns and looks and sure enough he is staring at them…  well she thinks he is, at least in their direction but it’s kinda hard to tell with those damn sunglasses on!  She stops tickling her friend.  “You win this time Lev…”  When she looks again, he’s grinning; she had caught his eye.

‘Mellow day, huh?  If that’s the case I’m gonna…’  Just as he’s closing his eyes he hears a shriek and looks over at 10 ‘o’clock.  ‘Damn Gray was right…’  The blonde was tickling her friend…  something…  ‘take it back’…  ‘attract his attention’…  he grins a little, ‘I bet they’re talking about me…’  This is exactly why he and his friend had come up with a simple code back in high school, so it would be harder to figure out they were talking about girls.  This system generally worked for them, and came in handy with the profession they had chosen.  Think about it, checking out the lovely ladies helped to pass the time, and they encountered a lot of them on a beach.  It was a simple ranking really, toothache meant pretty, cavity was gorgeous girls, and root canals were rare but was reserved for supermodel status chicks.  This girl was a cavity alright, and she looked awfully fine in the skimpy red bikini she was wearing…

Levy giggles and pokes her friend’s chest, “I bet he’s ogling your goodies Lu.”

“Shut up!” Lucy protests through a gritted smile, but if the darkening patches on her cheeks are any indication; she secretly hopes he is!  

“Well, I’m gonna tan,” Levy lays on her back and throws a pair of shades on.  “Wake me up if anything good happens.”

Lucy lies on her stomach, “Yeah sure…” and grabs a book out of her bag.  Picking up from where she had bookmarked earlier, she starts to read, hoping to get into the story and her mind off the handsome lifeguard…  “…Oh yeah, so you think this will work?” he models the outfit for her.  The shirt is a white collared button down half sleeve that still shows off his muscular arms, a little tight in the chest area but with his body shape it was very sexy.  Dark gray slacks and black dress shoes complete the look.  He left the first couple of buttons open revealing a smooth chest underneath…  Images of a pink haired guy all dressed up and she the girl on his arm invade Lucy’s mind.  She shakes her head trying to erase them like an etch-a-sketch as she reads on.  …Lying in bed she ponders over the day. ‘I can’t believe I let him stay here, what was I thinking?  You’re attracted to him that’s why.  Hush conscious!  Okay so he is kinda dreamy, he’s just as goofy as…, kinda self-centered but still sweet, and a little brighter in the intellectual department which is nice.  He sure knows how to sweet talk a girl too…. Okay that’s enough I need to get to sleep already!’ Sighing she turns over on her side, hugging her pillow till she falls asleep.  A couple of hours later she wakes up feeling like someone’s in the bed with her.  She realizes there’s an arm around her waist, so she turns her head and sees blonde hair.  “What are you doing in my bed!?” Realizing she can see his bare chest, “Oh my God and your naked!” she yells as she turns red.  “I was lonely on the couch, so I came in here.” He murmurs.  “You’re nice and warm baby…” he falls back asleep…  The sounds of giggling capture her attention and she looks up from her book, over to see two girls trying to flirt with the lifeguard.  Not wanting to stare she watches out of her side view and tries to listen in…

Once 10 ‘o’clock settles down with a book, Natsu leans back in his chair admiring the view.  The curves on the creamy blonde just screamed for attention, ‘maybe I could offer to put lotion on her…’ he smirks to himself.  Never mind those skinny models, no give him a girl with an hourglass and this one was a perfect 10 in his eyes; boobs, hips and ass with a slim waist and long toned legs.  The fact she was reading a book was a plus to him.  He may not be a reader, but he’d rather date a girl with intelligence too.  ‘Yup,’ the smirk grows, ‘definitely need to introduce myself later…’  When a couple of girls walk up trying to talk to him, he shuts them down nicely, “Nope, sorry…  Not interested…  Working here…”  All the while keeping his eyes trained on the blonde…

After reading the same passage three times, Lucy gives up.  Every time something remotely cute, romantic, or intimate comes up in the story her mind tried to substitute him into the story; in other words, blonde guy became guy with pink hair…  She sighs.  “Pst.  Levy…” Lucy pokes at her friend trying her best to stay quiet, “Levy….”

“Hmm, what is it?”

“He keeps looking over here…”

Her friend yawns, “Why don’t you just go talk to him?”

Lucy motions with her eyes, “No way I’m gonna join the parade of girls…” Levy looks over and sees what her friend is pointing out.  “That’s like the 6th or 7th so far, all in a row.  It’s like when one or two gives up, the next one tries.”

“And he still keeps looking over here?”

“He hasn’t stopped looking.”

“I don’t know what to tell ya Lu, are you hoping he makes a move first?”

“Actually… I came up with an idea…” she whispers the details to Levy, who’s struggling not to giggle.  “So, will you help me?”

“It’s a bit extreme, but if you wanna do it, I’ll help you…”

He sees 10 ‘o’clock and her friend whispering to themselves.  Something tells him, this chick ain’t gonna try to talk to him like all these others that keep coming.  But it has nothing to do with being shy, no, she strikes him as having plenty of confidence if she needs it.  Maybe she’s waiting for a better opportunity?  Or maybe, she doesn’t want to be lumped in with these others.  He watches intently as the two girls get off their towels and head towards the surf; the waves might be mellow, but anything can happen in the blink of an eye…  

They wade out until the water is up to their chests.  “So now what Lu?”

“Patience…” she watches the man out of the corner of her eye, “we need to wait until he’s distracted.”

“Why?”

“Duh, cause, if he is still watching us, he’ll know if I wasn’t under water for very long.”  As they wait for the right opportunity to present itself, the two friends splash around and have a little fun.  

‘Man, I wish I was out there with them!’  Natsu must admit he’s a bit jealous; just because he’s a lifeguard doesn’t mean he gets to swim often and who wouldn’t want to go play with a pretty girl?  That’s just bonus!  His mouth hangs open the longer he stares…  the sun glistening on her wet skin…  even from where he sits, he can see her big smile as she laughs and splashes her friend…  And the bounce of her, magnificent bosoms…  ‘Fuck!’  

“Natsu?”

“Huh?”  he looks down and sees a face he hasn’t seen in a while.  “Lis?”

“Yeah,” the girl smiles, “my brother said you were a lifeguard here.”

“Oh, uh-huh…” he looks back at the water to check on 10 ‘o’clock and sees her pop out of the water again.  She’s slicking back her wet hair…  ‘Fuck, she looks good soaking wet!’  To him it’s all moving in slow motion…  and the voice of this girl that’s talking to him drones out as images of he and the blonde, say in a shower…  tickle his mind…        

“So, I’m gonna be in town visiting for the week, would you like to hang out… like old times sakes?”

“Wait what?”  Old times sakes, all they were before was FTF’s.  He looks down at the girl in front of him.  “Are you saying what I think you’re saying?”

She nods, with a glimmer in her eye, “Why not…”

“Well…”  He whips his head to the sound of panicked screams and sees 10 ‘o’clocks friend turning her over in the water.  ‘Oh no!’  Chastising himself for not paying attention he grabs his buoy and leaps from the tower.  “Sorry, Lis but the answer is no,” and rushes into the waves.  

Luckily the girls weren’t out too far, but the blue-haired friend is terrified.  By the time Natsu reaches them she has the blonde face up and barely keeping the girls head afloat.  “Please help her!”

Natsu grabs the blonde from behind, with one arm snaked around her chest and the other helping him to cut through the surf.  “What happened?” he asks the rattled friend, doing his best to keep calm himself.  They may train for this scenario, but he’s let this become personal.  

“W-we were trying to see who could hold their breath the longest and…  I don’t know maybe she passed out under the water.  Oh my God please, don’t let her die!”

“Just stay calm…” by this point he’s got the blonde to the sand and is placing her on her back.  “Just stay back okay, give me room to work.”  Levy nods as a small crowd has begun to gather around them, including Lis.  Natsu’s instincts and training kick in, he straddles her hips and leans down to see if he can hear water in her lungs; doesn’t seem like it.  Her heart is still beating, but she doesn’t seem to be taking in any air, so he begins mouth to mouth resuscitation.  Once, twice; the girls body is still limp, third time; fluttering under her eye lids, a fourth time…    

Without warning, arms wrap around his back, pulling him down and the CPR has turned into… a kiss!  Natsu’s eyes widen when he notices the chocolate orbs looking back up at him.  She smiles and runs her tongue along his lips to test his reaction…  That’s when he smiles too and reciprocates, parting his lips and allowing her tongue to venture in…  

Levy stands back smirking the whole time as a few flashes go off around her; it’s a guarantee these pictures are gonna end up on Instagram or something; lifeguard saves girl, girl thanks him with a lip-lock…  ‘Hopefully he doesn’t get in trouble…’  Behind her, another girl turns and walks away with her shoulders slumped…

After a couple minutes Natsu slowly pulls away, the biggest grin plastered on his face.  “That’s the best thanks I ever had for saving someone…” he leans next to her ear whispering, “But I know you were faking it.”

She grins back, “Just thought you could use a break from the other groupies.”

“So, what’s your name Princess?” He stands and holds out his hand.

With his help she gets to her feet, “Lucy, and yours?”

“Natsu,” he does an exaggerated bow, “at your service.”

“Hmm…” she runs her hand along his chest, “does that include night games?”

“Damn girl you are a fiery one!  That’s so freaking awesome!”

She laughs and softens her gaze suggestively, “Am I sweet enough to give you a cavity?”  His jaw drops; busted!

He pulls her back into his embrace, “Nah, I might need a root canal instead…”

[ihave-sinned]

Love Bait | Chapter One: ENLISTMENT

Fandom: Shingeki No Kyojin/Attack On Titan (Anime) Type: Series Pairing: Levi x OC Word Count: 5784 Category: Fanfiction (Angst and Eventual Smut)

**Note: Some scenes/dialogues were originally from the manga/anime** **A/N: Sorry for the delay and sorry for any wrong spelling or grammar in advance.Please enjoy reading :) If you haven’t read the PROLOGUE it’s  >>here<< **

“I never said that.They want me dead.But i never said i wanted to die,"

   CHAPTER ONE: ENLISTMENT

 Wall Sina | Year 847 | Mitras | 9:00 am

Placing my book on my lap,I stretched my arms out into the early morning,I always knew it would be a fine day when I couldn’t feel the temperature of the air.It’s summer.The hottest of all four seasons.I felt the gentle wind caressed my face as i opened the small window of the carriage and let my eyes wandered around my surrounding.The sun was already a friendly ball of yellow,promising more heat as the day progressed.Blue sky and white strips of cloud scattered up above,some are long strips,some are small but my favorite ones were those which has a weird formation,creating various beautiful shapes that will sometimes tickle my imagination. All in all i couldn’t have asked for a better weather.

Minutes passed by and i can no longer smell the sweet fragrance of freshly cut grass.The sound of birds chattering in the trees faded replaced with the faint sound of people talking,footsteps and the noise made by the objects being push,pull or drop can be heard inside the carriage I’m riding in.People scattered everywhere doing their own business. The once quite scenery was replaced by the noise of the lively and busy market place. My mind was fully occupied by the surrounding when I felt someone licked my hands.

"Hey,buddy,” I smiled,petting my dog’s head as he barked,his tail wagging.

He’s a gray German shepherd gift given to me by my mother on my fourteenth birthday, he’s pretty big compare to the average size of a dog,and he looks like a smaller version of wolf because of his color.I love exploring yet i am terrible at directions at the same time,so I get lost often,and Evo was trained for that.He was trained to be my guard and to be my guide.He’s always with me whenever I go outside,specially if I’m going to a place I’m not familiar with.

“Whoa!”I heard the coachman yelled.The horse halted with a neigh as i felt the carriage I’m riding in stopped.

I closed the book on my lap with a small thud before placing it beside me.I tucked a strand of my armpit length brown hair behind my ear as i stick my head out the window of the carriage,peeking outside.

“Lady,” said the girl beside me. “Please sit properly,” Her voice was soft yet stern.

My honey brown orbs met her green once as I put my head back inside the carriage.My eyes flickered with excitement,not paying attention to what she had said as i felt an electrifying feeling surge through my veins.

“Naya,are we already ‘here’? ”Naya’s lips pursed slightly,her eyebrows furrowed a bit as she stared at me,worry was visibly etched on her face.I saw small glint of fear crossed across her eyes and she let out a quite shaky sigh as if bracing herself to what will gonna happen.Her knuckles white,as she unconsciously clutched onto her long skirt before nodding.I brought my hands on top of her knuckles,giving it a gentle squeeze.

“Naya,Everything will be fine,so don’t be nervous,” I said giving her a reassuring smile, “Trust me,”

Naya stared at me for a moment before smiling slightly, giving me a small nod of agreement.I smiled once more before placing my book back inside my bag,clutching the handle tightly as i opened the door of the carriage.

“Let’s go then.” I said rather cheerfully as I looked at Evo and he started barking excitedly, “You too,buddy,” and that’s the only cue he needed before he jumped quickly off the carriage and began walking around while sniffing the ground.

As soon as my feet touch the ground,a man in his 50’s approached me.He’s wearing a black tuxedo and a black hat.He has a broad-shoulder,a lean posture and a tanned wrinkled skin– a sign of aging.He has this friendly smile plastered on his face as he removed his hat,exposing those gray-ish strands of his.He then bow down his head courteously before standing straight placing his hat back on his head,still smiling. Evo jumped up on him gleefully,his front paws were on the man’s waist level,tail shaking from side to side and his tongue sticking out.The old man laughed calming the overjoyed dog by petting its head.

“Uncle Rob!" I smiled back.

"Vaccines,medicines,food and clothes are all ready,Miss Elena,”

My lower lips protruded in a childish pout as i heard the way he addressed me.I hoisted my bag on my shoulder,crossing my arms over my chest,pout never leaving my mouth earning a small laugh from the old man.

“Just Elena,Uncle Rob,”

I never liked the way Naya and Uncle Rob addresses me.Firstly,because Uncle Rob,even though he’s not my Uncle by blood, he’s always been working under my family as a butler,even before i was born.And Naya is like a real sister to me. She used to call me in my real name tho,but when she heard Uncle Rob calling me Miss Elena,and ever since when she started to learn the honorifics she began calling me 'Lady’ treating me high and mighty rather than treating me as her own sister.As a real sister.And it saddens me.

“Oh! Hi,Mr.Williams,” I heard Naya spoke behind me with a lively voice as she get herself out of the carriage. Evo was now sitting quietly beside me,his tongue still sticking out.

“My,my,You two really grew so fast,huh?Last time i remember you two were just this small,” He said motioning his hands,placing them on his waistline as Naya and I giggled softly,”Oh, and about the goods,“ The old man added before he whistled. To my shock ten men suddenly came up and began unloading the carriage.I blinked few times, analyzing what’s happening.

"Did–,” I said pointing at the men carrying the goods.”Did my dad sent them here?”

"No,Grandma did.It will be hard for us to carry those boxes without them,Lady,”

‘Well,obviously’ i thought.I bet i couldn’t even carry a single box,but sending ten men was kinda over reacting.I looked at Uncle Rob for confirmation,giving him a 'for real?’ look and he nodded.

“I know but,I was expecting fewer people.Maybe three men is enough,right?”

“Well,” i heard Uncle Rob sighed “Your granny knows how dangerous for us to go in such place,so she thinks sending three men is not enough.”

I frowned but nodded.

“Anyway,Uncle,”I said as i moved my gaze from the boxes to Uncle Rob “Where is 'it’?“ I asked and he looked at me questioningly.

"Oh,that,” he said as he remember, “On your left,Miss El,”

The frown on my face subsided slowly as I felt the surge of excitement runs through my body once again.I turned my head on my left side and gulped, Silently reading the letters written on the wall right next to an arrow.

'To Underground City’

I am finally here.

Again.

 I flopped down on my bed groaning while messing my hair,feeling disappointed while I felt Evo lay beside me.I laid on my stomach while digging my face on my pillow as I clutched on it tightly.Lifting up my head a little,I look through my windows,quietly watching as the brilliant orb of amber and tangerine sunk lower and lower in the sky until it dipped down into the horizon, painting the sky in magnificent hues of fiery red and crimson illuminating my room. The colors faded from maroon to neon pink and majestic purple. An impossibly bright orange colored the world a sparkling gold as the sun descended. The sky changed from cornflower blue to a subtle purple, speckled with diamonds and adorned in one large orb of opal.

The first summer night of this year.

The dim light of the moon was the only one that serves a small light in my huge dark room.I rolled on my bed and lay on my back,staring at the white ceiling of my room in the middle of silence.The goods were properly distributed.I enjoyed this project but I’m quite disappointed at some point.So far the projects were successful except 'him’.

My first project was to help the refugees of Wall Maria.Those people who has been forced to leave their hometown and moved inside Wall Rose when the outer wall was breached by the Armored Titan and Colossal Titan two years ago.I chose Underground City for my second project not only because I saw how miserable was the life of people living in there but also,because of 'him’.That boy who saved me and Naya.

I knew that my chance to meet him again after thirteen long years was so small,I didn’t even catch his name,neither I know if I would recognized him if I see him.But i willingly took the risk.I just wanted to thank him for what he did to me and to Naya. And by 'thanking him’ I mean,I wanted to help him.I can help him out of that place if that’s what he want.I never get the chance to thank him back then because he left as soon as my parents came and found me.

’If he didn’t left maybe I could convinced my parents to adopt him too’.

How does he look like again? I couldn’t actually remember.Neither Naya can.The only thing I can remember were his eyes.Those pair of grey orbs,staring coldly.One of the most beautiful pair I have ever seen in my entire life.I sighed closing my eyes falling into a deep slumber.

 Three consecutive knocks on my door woke me up from my sleep. Evo lifted his head and opened his eyes raising his left ear as the door opened with a small squeak ,but then lay his head back on my bed comfortably,closing his eyes when he saw it was just Naya who entered my room.I opened my eyes groaning as I glanced at the wall clock.

9:45 pm.

“Lady!" Naya called out catching her breath, one hand resting on her knee and the other one holding a small lamp. I sat on my legs lazily,stretching my limbs before rubbing my eyes.I looked at myself at the mirror beside my bed,my hair,a tangled mess.My gaze moved from the mirror to Naya.

"What is it,Naya?” I tilted my head in a slight confusion as i scrutinized the girl in front of me, “Did you run?" i asked yawning.

She swallowed and nodded,trying to calm her breath.

"You seem so tired,Lady.Would you like to rest first?”

I shook my head and sat on the edge of my bed trying to fix my hair with my fingers.

“Nah,I’m fine.I just woke up,”  I said still fixing my hair. “So,what’s up with you running like that?”

“Another letter arrived," Naya said showing out a small white envelope.

I looked at it before I nodded nonchalantly.Just another letter from the medical establishments doesn’t excites me.After i attained my highest education in the field of Medicine and graduated with the highest award being the youngest person who ranked first in the over-all-ranking,since then, medical organizations started their obsession on sending me letters,offering and encouraging me to join them,however,none of those letters caught my interest.They keep sending letters and i keep on refusing.I know that they just want me for money,the name and the fame.If I joined them,the chance of being hired by the nobles as their personal doctor will get higher and that also means bigger money.And i absolutely loathed the idea.

"Guess i need to declined another letter hmm?”

I shrugged walking towards my vanity mirror to brush my hair.

“But,Lady..” Naya said with her widened eyes looking at me, “This is not 'just another letter’,” 

I stopped.Looking at Naya through my mirror.

“What is it then?” I asked,raising my right eyebrow.My eyes flickered with curiosity.

“It’s a letter from the royal family.Here," She said and I frowned,confused. Naya showed the envelope,pointing the stamp.I squinted my eyes looking at the small white envelope through my mirror. "It has a royal stamp,Lady,”

Recognizing the stamp,I gasped and spun around quickly.I walked towards Naya to check the letter myself. Naya hand it over me.The stamp was the image of the castle and the King’s initials.My eyes widened as my fingers touched the stamp.

‘But why?

I thought.I looked at Naya,and she’s already looking at me,My confused hazel brown hues met her pair of confused green once,returning my eyes on the small white envelope,i opened the letter that was addressed to me.My eyes scanned the letter.Each word was neatly written.And on the lower right,there was the King’s signature along with the royal stamp just like the stamp on the outside cover.The letter was clearly not an invitation nor an offer.It’s an order–An order from the King.Defying it means death.I can’t just decline it.As i proceed on reading,a certain line caught my attention.A small smirk crept on my face as I folded the paper neatly placing it back on the envelope,closing it.

“Pack your things,Naya,” I said walking towards my bed,“ We’re leaving.”

“Wha–..Where are we going,Lady?”

“Grandma’s,”I answered shortly as i get my luggage under my bed.

“But,Lady!The King expect you to be there before sunrise,” Her voice trembling as she speaks.”And if you refused you will be sent to–” her eyes widened as if realization hits her.  

I didn’t speak, instead I walked towards my closet and get a good amount of clothes,placing it inside my luggage.

“Lady,Don’t tell me you–” the crease forming between his eyebrows became deeper.

“Yes,” I said calmly.

She opened her mouth like she’s about to say something but it seems like she can’t find the right term,that she’s unsure what to say so she closed it again,before she bit her bottom lip.

“You know dad will never allow me to go.” I sighed,turning to her,placing my hands on either side of her shoulder. “This is the only chance i have," 

"But,” she paused searching for words,”I know that you know this is not a good idea,Elena,” 

I was quite shock when she called me in my real name.Sign that she’s angry yet worried,but she can’t stop me. I’ve waited for this opportunity for so long.I’m thankful that she always worry about me.I really am.But now,It’s the right time for us to choose our own path.

"Yes,I’m sorry,” 

I murmured as i watched her walked towards the door quietly.The sound of opening and closing of my door is the only noise can be heard,a quite click followed. Naya walked out of my room leaving me without a single word.

****************************

Wall Rose | Year 847 | Ehrmich District (south) | 12:00 am

Sipping my tea, I let my eyes wander in my surrounding. A wooden table in front of me and a cup of tea on the table.This house was not as fancy as the one where me and Naya live.This house is more simple yet it gives me the feeling of relaxation and comfort. I’ve missed this house.Me and Naya used to spend our vacation in this house back then, but it stopped when I became preoccupied with my studies.

I heard someone cleared their throat.Following the sound, my gaze fell on my grandmother’s face.Her suspicious eyes already boring at me.

“So,what brought you here,young women?”

“Are you not happy to see us,granny?” I said dramatically clutching my chest.

“Shut up,El.You know that’s not what i meant,”

I pouted childishly.My grandmother is stricter than my mother,while my father has always been the softest one.Basically my grandmother’s the strictest person in the family.

“Why?Is it now bad to visit you,granny?”

“No.But at midnight?Seriously El?It will only take two hours of driving for you to reached my house.And that means you didn’t really planned to visit me but you had to because something came up.” she paused sipping her coffee. “So tell me,young woman.Did something wrong happened?”

My childish pout was now replaced with a serious expression,lips pursed tightly as I turned my gaze to Naya. She’s fidgeting while looking at the unmoving liquid substance in-front of her,holding her mug tightly.I sighed. I’ve already mentioned my plan to my grandmother before as well so I know she wouldn’t be so surprised if I bring up the topic.I turned my gaze to my grandmother, my hazel brown eyes met her dark brown hues still staring at me intently,I wet my lips.

“I am leaving for Military Training,grandma,”  I said as I stared at her not blinking while biting my inner cheek.

She continue to stare at me as well with so much intensity as if she’s looking for something in my eyes.Silence.The wind blow and the cold air entered through the open window of the dinning room and slightly caressed my cheeks. Silence. Only the sound of leaves swaying with the wind can be heard. Silence. Naya looked at me then to the old woman,feeling the tension rising up.

“No," My grandma said her voice low yet firm.

I let out a sigh.I just realized I was unconsciously holding my breath while I was waiting for my grandmother’s answer.

"You can’t do anything even if you’re against it,granny.The King sent a letter earlier,ordering me to work under him as his personal doctor.They’ll send someone to fetch me tomorrow and I’ve already leave a letter of declination on one of the maid in the mansio–." I tried to explain but i was cut.

I was surprised when my grandmother slapped me hard right on my face before I can even finished what I was saying.I touched my cheeks, eyes wide opened,She never slapped me before.

"Say,” She asked her voice was shaking. “You wanna die?”

“I never said that.They want me dead.But i never said i wanted to die,granny,” I argued and she frowned.

“And what about Naya?You’ll drag her with you?” she asked slightly gritting her teeth,pointing her finger to Naya.

I was about to speak when i heard the chair squeak as Naya stood up,all our eyes on her.

"I–” she stuttered. “I’ll go too,”Naya said with such determination that almost match mine if only her voice weren’t shaking.

“Naya,no,”  I said rather calmly as I looked at Naya,creased forming between her eyebrows. “ Never,”

I turned my eyes to my grandmother as she sighed closing her eyes,while pinching the bridge of her nose,trying to calm herself

"I’m sorry,for causing you stress.” I bit my lip looking at her apologetically.“I just wanted to say goodbye to you personally at least before i leave." I paused then look at Naya who’s still standing,her fists curled tightly. “And as for Naya,I’m gonna leave her here in your house.” 

I know it will be the best for the both of them,since grandma’s not getting any younger,Naya can take care of her.Also, Naya needs someone to be with her.She can’t be alone.She hates it.

“You don’t understand,Elena." she said sniffing,"What i hate the most is..being left behind,”Naya said,tears running down her face,her voice shaking yet she spit those last two words venomously before she ran upstairs,leaving me and my grandmother in the dinning room.

My eyes widened and I froze not just because she called me in my real name for the second time this day,but because I realized something; I’ve hurt Naya. I will do the thing she hated the most.I will do the same thing those people in her past did to her.I will leave her.Will she hate me?I stand up from my seat and I was about to chase her when my grandmother stopped me on my tracks.

“You sit,”

I swallowed the invisible lump on my throat and patted Evo’s head before i whispered. “Evo. Go to Naya,okay?" I said smiling at my dog and he barked on agreement.

"Good boy," I patted him one last time before he run upstairs,my eyes followed my dog’s movement until I can’t see him anymore.I sat myself on the chair as my grandmother began to speak.

“Why?” she asked in almost inaudible voice,“Why can’t you just accept the order and live peacefully inside Sina just as what your mother told you?” I bit my lip,hanging my head low “Like me and your father want you to do?”

I stayed silent as she bombarded me with questions.

“Why do you have to be so stubborn?” She said her voice weak.“If you’re just doing this to avenge your mother’s death,then stop it.You don’t have to do that,honey,”

“Avenging my mother’s death is far from my real intention,granny.I wanted to do this because i wanted to help,” my eyes started to tear up as i started to remember her, “Just like my mother did,“

I admire my mother,Most of doctors declined working under Scouting Legion because they can’t offer them high income.But she chose to work under that Legion.There’s so many excellent doctors out there but they chose to work under the royalty.Under nobles.Only a few of them have the guts to work under this Legion,when in fact they’re the one who needs us the most.

“And I wanted to help not just as a doctor,but also,as a soldier”

She stared at my eyes as if she’s reaching out for my soul.And I stared at her eyes with my pair of hazel orbs full with determination.She sighed as if it’s the sign that she gave up.

"Did your dad know about this?”

My grandma asked but I didn’t answer,instead I just hang my head low.She clicked her tongue shaking her head.

“Did you even mentioned this plan to him?”

“I did,once.But he got angry,” I pouted.

“Who wouldn’t?Be thankful your dad didn’t slapped you like i did,”

“He almost,”

And I almost forgot about the slap tho.Now that my grandma mentioned it,I touched my cheek and I felt my cheek sting a bit.But I know the training will be more painful.

“But,I’m sorry.I just..” She trailed off, “I just don’t want to lost you the way i lost your mother.”She said and turned her head to the open window, looking at the sky. “My only daughter.”

I hummed.

“I know.I’m sorry too–”

“And I want you to know that I’m still against it.I just hope you’ll never regret this." She said with a quite yet sad voice.I give her a reassuring smile,hugging her.

"Nev–”

“Save it.I want you to say that to me one day.Not now,okay?” She said detaching herself from the hug and I nodded,“Promise me,”

 I smiled,as i brought my hand on the left part of my chest. “I promise.”

 “Now go upstairs and talk to Naya.”  she said smiling sadly.

—–

I knocked on the door before I opened it.There I see Naya on her bed,hugging Evo. She’s now on her nightwear. A white long sleeve duster that goes just below her knees with some ruffles on the collar.Some of the strands of her black waist length hair were covering her face.The only source of the light is the moon that can be seen through her windows, illuminating the dark room with its dim light.The curtain slightly swaying in the breeze entering her open window.I can hear some occasional sniffs which meant she’s still awake..and crying.I walked towards her bed and I sit on the edge, her back facing me. Evo stand up and walk towards me.I patted his head whispering a 'Thank you’ before I turned to Naya.

“Naya..” I called but she stayed silent.

I started humming a song,because I know it calms her.Music calms me too.We both like music so much.I play piano and she plays guitar.We usually spend time together composing music.To be honest most of the things we know,we learned them together.

“Back then we always learn things together.But now,” I trailed off. “It’s a bit different.We need to choose our path..of what would we like to be,”

“Bring me with you then,” She speaks all of a sudden.

I looked at her with a saddened expression in my eyes and she looked at me with her pained ones.I want her to do the thing that her heart desires.Not this.This is not what she wanted.I know she’s just doing this because of me.

She get up from her bed and shook her head before she looked at me.“Why is that you can to decide for yourself and you wont let me on my own.That’s unfair,Lady,” My expression softened as I heard her statement

"I can’t," I muttered with sadness lace on my voice.

"You can.You just don’t want to," She murmured before laying on her bed once again,but now ,covering her face with her blanket.

"If you will continue to deny my request,then please kindly leave the room,Lady.There’s nothing to talk about,”

That night I let Evo to stay on Naya’s room,instead of mine.

*********************************

|6:30 am|

Morning came so fast.Silence engulf the whole surrounding. I’m now dressed and ready to go,I’m just waiting for the carriage that will fetch me to arrive.Naya on the other hand is still on her night ware.My grandmother look at the both of us,sipping her black coffee.

“I assume you two didn’t solve your problem,”

She said breaking the silence as she noticed the black circles below my eyes as well as Naya’s eyes.No one answered.Just another silence,It pains me that I will leave like this.We heard a loud knock on the front door.I looked at Naya then to my grandmother.Grandma gave me a small nod before I rushed to the front door,opening it as I saw a man standing outside holding a white paper to which I assumed was a sketch of me.He look at the paper then he looked at me while I get my luggage and carry it.I looked at him.He’s wearing a brown jacket,and a light blue shirt underneath,a white pants with straps and a leather boots.On his jacket an embroidered logo of a green unicorn.The infamous logo of Military Police Brigade.

“I came here under the King’s mighty order.I was sent here to deliver his words.Come with us.Don’t you dare escape, for i was given lawful authority to shoot and kill you if you dare.Don’t you dare refuse, for i had take you by force if y—,”

The man stopped when I walk passed him and get out of the house before he can even finished his sentence.He then grabbed my arm harshly and clicked his tongue.

“What a rude lady,”

I heard him said and I gritted my teeth,glaring at him as I tried to free my arm off his grasp by wiggling it violently.

“I won’t escape,goddammit.”

“Just to make sure,” he said without letting go of my arm.

“You have a gun,you could just shoot me if i dare,just as what you said earlier” i snarled.

“Unafraid,eh?” he chuckled but he didn’t let go of my arm.Squeezing it tighter instead,trying to intimidate me.I hissed,pained and irritated. “Anyway,” he trailed off “You’re not gonna say goodbye to them?” he said looking at the two women standing in the doorway of the house.

I gulped.I can’t get myself turn on my back,because if i will, i don’t know, I’ll probably break down,so i shook my head.

“Really?” he sounds amused,a devious smirk plastered on his face.  “Who knows,this might be the last time you’ll be able to see them,”  

I sighed closing my eyes.I won’t let my emotions control me.I can’t let that happen so I get inside the carriage with my luggage as fast as i can and the man closed the door almost instantly after he get inside with me.I looked through the window,there I see my grandmother and my sister. Both of them held a sad expression on their faces as I waved at them and smiled gently.Gently yet sadly.

“Whoa!”

The coachman yelled and the carriage began to move as the horse starts walking.That’s when I heard a bark.I peek through the windows and I saw Evo running after the carriage.

“Wait!" I shouted.

"What?" The man beside me asked, irritated.The coachman slowed down the horse.

"Evo,i mean my dog.Can i at least take him with me?”

“Are you trying to escape using your dog?” The man said chuckling,he then turned to the coachman.“Please go on.Ignore her.”

I frowned. And the carriage starts moving again.

“No!Of course not,”

“Sure." The man beside me scoffed. I was about to say something when he speaks.

"You will shut your mouth or else i’ll shoot your dog." He said showing me his gun.

************************************

Training Camp| Year 847 | 8:30 am

"Move faster,dipshit,”

I accidentally dropped my luggage on the ground as the MP pushed me off the carriage. I heard him clicked his tongue. I hissed picking up my luggage.I noticed that he’s still on the carriage.I frowned at him.

“Here," He throw a paper bag on me.I caught the bag and look what’s on the inside.

"That’s your uniform," He said and I nodded as he closed the door of the carriage.

"Wait,where are you going?” 

“My job here was already done,young lady,” 

“What?” I asked confuse and the carriage starts to move. “Wait!” I shouted, but it didn’t stop.

I feel uncomfortable and nervous at the same time as I looked around me.It’s been so long since I went outside without Naya and Evo around.There’s so many people here and,most of them are so young.Most of them are refugees.I sighed walking around trying to find a place where I can changed my clothes,but to no avail.This place was just too big and too unfamiliar.I don’t know where to go,and I’m completely lost.I’m really bad at this.

"Trainees,gathered together and form 10 lines 20 rows,Now!!” I heard someone shouted and i started to panic.

“Dammit!" I hissed.

I haven’t even put my uniform on,I’m still on my goddamned casual clothes for Pete’s sake.I saw some trainees running on a certain direction,I looked at the paper bag in my hands then on the running trainees,contemplating.Should I change my clothes first? or should I follow them and fall in the line as well?

Clicking my tongue, I followed them.While running,I noticed that all trainees are now on their uniform except me.Great.Just great.When everyone’s done on choosing their place in the line,a loud voice boomed that made everyone flinched and automatically straighten their bodies.

"Straight those pants,peasants!The hundred and fourth Cadet Corps boot camp starts now!Allow me to introduced myself,” he said as he stood straight in front of us, “I’m the former Commander Keith Shadis,and you will gonna hate me.Training is gonna be a white-knuckle ride through hell.If I’ve done my job you’ll be waking up in a cold sweat from memories of this place every night for the rest of your miserable lives.Right now you’re nothing,livestock.But over the next three soul-crashing years,you’ll learn to take down your own Goliath.Remember this moment when you come face to face with him cause here’s where you will ask yourself ’Am i a fighter or am i a food?’,'Am i gonna be ground up to a pulpy human breast wing boulder sized incisors or am i gonna be that one that bite?’”

He shouted with all force with such voice that will make anyone shit their pants.He then started to walk towards the trainees,examining their faces with a glare.

“Hey,mop-top!” He called and go in front of a certain blond boy.

“Sir!”The boy answered,standing straight placing his right hand on the left side of his chest and curling up his fingers,his other hand on his back.

“What did i’ll call you,maggot?”

“I’m Armin Arlert from Shiganshina,sir!" he said flinching slightly.

"Wow,seriously?Why would your parents cursed you with such a dumb name?”

“It was my grandfather,sir!!”

And just like that the former Commandant continued insulting the new recruits.One.by.one.

“What do you call yourself?”

“I am Marco Bott,sir.From Jinae,in Wall Rose’s Southern District,sir!I came to join the Military Police and pledge myself to the King!”

He said, wanting to sound so brave and lively but I can still feel the nervousness in his voice.

'Another one who wants to join the MP huh?’ I thought.

“Well then,that makes you an idealistic fool and a rube.You want the truth?The only use the King has for your life and limbs are titan fodder." The man said moving to the next target like nothing happened.

Things just got worse when he saw a certain bald boy saluted with his left hand instead with his right,the former Commandant grabbed his head and lifted him off the ground.I didn’t expected him to be this rough with the soldiers,especially with the new recruits.

"Listen up,Connie Springer!This was one of the first things you were taught,this salute means you’re offering your heart to the King and for humanity,Is your heart on the right side,shithead?”

He said before releasing the bald boy’s head.He turned his head on the next row.On my row.A girl eating potato caught his attention and I’m near her.

Her.Another Cadet.Me.

“Hey,you there,what do you think you’re doing?" He said walking towards to the girl.The girl looked on her both sides before she took another bite of her food.

"You are officially on my shitlist,Just who the hell are you?" The man shouted angrily.

Swallowing the food on her mouth quickly, she answered,"Sasha Blouse from Dauper,in Wall Rose’s Southern District at your service,reporting for duty,sir!" She said saluting the potato still in her hand.

"Sasha Blouse huh?And what is that you’re clutching in your right hand?" The man said in his low voice.Looking at the innocent steamed potato she’s clutching in her hand with a glare.

I don’t know if am i the only one who find this situation funny,I’ve been holding back a loud laugh ever since the conversation with the potato girl started.Looking around all i see are stiffened soldiers.I can say that the former Commandant did a great job on intimidating them.

"Why?I can’t comprehend,Why would you eat that potato?”The girl started to look confused.

“Are you asking me why people eat potatoes?I’m surprised you don’t know,sir.”

Everyone’s jaw dropped and eyeing her shockingly.Silence engulfed the surrounding and she halfheartedly took a small part of the potato,sighing.

“Here,sir.Have half." She said as she holds out the small part.

That’s when I accidentally let out a loud laugh.Realizing it,I automatically lowered my head and avert my eyes on the ground covering the half of my face as I heard footsteps coming closer.My heart thumping so loud.

"Who the hell are you?And what are you laughing for?” he stopped for a moment and i got nervous, “And why you’re not wearing your goddamned uniform,cadet!?”

He shouted,his voice sent chills down my spine. I placed my hand on the left side of my chest and the other at the back.I stood straight but my head still bent down.

“I couldn’t find a place where i can changed my clothes,sir!!”

I said,eyes still on the ground and my head lowering more and more by the seconds.Then there’s silence first before he answered.

“What a dumb piece of shit.Why the hell you’re looking at the ground,shithead?Lift up your head and look at your superior!!”

I flinched as he shouted louder than before.I’m surprised he haven’t recognized me..yet.“I will asked you once again.What is your name?!” 

Knuckles-white,I slowly lift my head up,gathering all my strength I speak loud and clear.He froze,staring at me.Shock etched his face as he recognized me.

"Elena Shadis,from Mitras,the innermost Capital inside Wall Sina,Sir.” I bit my inner cheek nervously as i heard audible gasps and whispering around me.Eyes still focus in front as the man,scrutinize me in astonishment.

“E-Elena?” he stuttered.Swallowing the invisible lump in my throat,I looked at him apologetically before i speak.

“Dad.”

-CHAPTER ONE END-

                                          To Be Continued...

                                  End Of the First Chapter

You can show your support by buying me a coffee:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mrnlsl

[neen-writes]

Friday Night

A/N: From an AU prompt on Tumblr. "you caught some guy trying to drug my drink at the bar so u punched him and now we're at my place where i'm cleaning the blood off your face and endlessly thanking you" au

Altered just a little bit(because I can't see Levy taking a guy home the same night she meets him). 

A/N 1-12-17: SO! Tumblr did in fact eat this post when I tried to edit it a few days ago! So this is a REPOST, many of you will have already seen this, just a heads up!  Sorry for that!!

"Come on, just hang out for a lil. I don't bite," the glassy-eyed male slurred to her, leaning precariously on his stool.

The blunette wrinkled her nose at the stench of gin. "No, thank you, I was just leaving actually," she feigned a polite, stiff smile at the persistent drunk on the stool next to her and crossed her legs, angling her shoulder towards him.

The whole night she had been regretting being so uncharacteristic. But Lucy was ever the convincing one, and she had begged her over and over to come out with them to the local bar, because "reading is not what normal people do on a Friday night." She had finally conceded, but she was reminded again why she wasn't a fan of this kind of scene. It was loud, it smelled like sweat, and was crawling with people like the one that had settled next to her. Not to mention the dress code to these kinds of clubs was stifling and the white pumps she had borrowed from Lucy were anything but comfortable(how does she go a whole night, dancing like she does in these?). At least her dress was comfortable, however the attention it drew wasn't.

Levy had tried her best for Lucy, and to her credit, had stayed for an hour and a half, consoling herself with light beverages, and danced a little to the few songs that she knew. She certainly wasn't opposed to drinking, it was fun socially and Levy, if she said so herself, was a fantastic drunk. It was a privilege for anyone that got to see that side of her. But there was little point doing it in a place like this and the buzz only made her feel insecure. She far preferred dive bars, or doing it at someone's house. Usually Lucy's.

Speaking of, it had been at least two songs since her friend had checked in, and Levy was about to close out. She swiveled in her seat, looking back to the dance floor and completely ignoring the man next to her. Maybe he would get the hint?

Levy spotted the familiar pale blue skintight dress in the crowd and smiled a little. At least someone was having a blast. When she turned back around, the man was still there, though quietly looking at the bar rather than her. Levy reached for her rum and coke to finish it off, when everything seemed to happen at once. Suddenly she was wearing her drink, and her 'suitor' was flying over the bar.

"Hey, scumbag!"

Gajeel was mid sip when his mouth dropped open and the black straw fell from his lips. He might have dribbled a little whiskey on himself in the process. Red eyes widened on the dumbstruck, studded face of the large black-haired male. The conversation happening on the couch around him faded to the background the second that ray of sunshine entered the spot.

She. Was. Stunning.

Her wild cerulean hair caught his attention first, standing out starkly in the crowd and was accented with a small white, floral hairpin that held some of it from her face; her soft, adorable face with cheeks flushed in uncertainty. It was clear by her body language that this wasn't her scene, any guy could see that. But she still carried herself in that tantalizing yellow dress like she could easily hold her own. Every step in those heels, which did fantastic things for her cream-colored legs, ruffled the fabric against her petite form underneath, giving torturous hints at the curves it hid.

He was dumbstruck, and he was definitely not a stranger to this kind of scene, with its ample share of girls that tried very hard to be the one that stood out. Which generally did the opposite for Gajeel. But she… she could have walked in there in a t-shirt and jeans and he was pretty damn sure he would have been just as drawn to her. He was thankful for their choice of seating, as it gave him a clear view of almost the whole place, and thus a chance to keep his needy gaze on her for half the night.

His face burned with desire the few times she moved to the dancefloor with her friend, because oh god, every swing of those hips had him like a dog with a treat being waved over his head. But somehow, he was just as content to watch her when she moved back to the bar to order another drink and catch a breather, based on the adorable little sigh her tiny frame heaved out when she sat down.

Every time she took a seat, he told himself he was going to march over there and buy her a drink. And each time his stomach flared up with infuriating flutters that kept him glued to his seat. What the hell! Why am I being such a pussy? he scolded himself.

The final time she took a seat, which really looked like the final with the tired slump of her sweat-glazed shoulders, he steeled himself to get up and go over to her. But he had just barely shifted in his seat when someone else swept in and stole his place. That's what ya get for being so slow. He growled a little, unsure why he felt such a jealous pang in his chest, and settled back into his seat, taking a sharp, burning sip of his drink.

"Oi, earth to metalhead! Did you hear me or what?"

Red eyes swung back to the pink-haired boy seated across from him at the table. A grimace spread on the large man's studded face. "Quiet down flamebrain I heard ya. I don't care what bar we go to next, you guys can pick. Lemme finish my drink first at least."

Natsu grinned and leaned forward a bit and tilted his head. "Are you sure? You seem to really be enjoying yourself here," he poked, laughing to himself, before looking to the crowded bar to the girl that, apparently, was tantalizing enough to have their companion so spaced. "Are you gonna go over there or what?"

Gajeel prickled and chucked a piece of ice at him, nailing him square in the cheek with a satisfying yelp. "Shut up!" he snapped with a growl to follow. The outburst only brought out a pulse of laughter from the group, with nudging elbows and more teases. "The shots are hitting me is all. Damn, can't a guy enjoy his buzz in peace?" he shot back, directing his gaze back to the fairy at the bar with a huff

A satisfied grin spread on his face as she turned a cold shoulder to the guy to, probably, look for her friend. Gihe, better luck next time chump, he thought, pleased.

Movement from the male, however, caught his attention. The guy's hand reached up, quickly, to the top of her drink and then retreated back to his side as he sat forward. Gajeel's eyes narrowed and he felt a sudden fire in his chest, a snarl building in his throat. His red eyes looked quickly to the oblivious bartender, and then to anyone else around her that didn't seem to notice. "Oh, that fucking bastard." His sudden outburst caught his group's attention, but he had already slammed down his drink and was beelining across the bar before he even realized what he was doing.

He watched her, in slow motion, turn to reach for her drink, and saw the sly, infuriating look the guy next to her shot her.

"Hey, scumbag!" he roared as the surprised man whirled to look at him. In one fluid motion, one hand toppled the drink in the girl's grip, and the other wound back, before landing a fist square in his face that sent him headfirst over the bar and onto the floor on the other side.

Gajeel shook his hand out at his side, the rush in his chest putting him sky high. But nowhere near as high as she sent him when she turned those big, surprised, honey-colored eyes onto him. Everyone immediately around them stopped for a moment in shock, giving the two a few seconds to catch up. Her hands were suspended uselessly at her sides, and he saw now that he had ruined her dress. Guilt started to rise in him, and he watched her expression go from surprise to fear, as Gajeel opened his mouth to blurt out, in his defense, "He fucking tried to drug you."

The blunette's eyes lit suddenly with understanding and a hand flew over her mouth.

"Stay out of our business!" A second person, likely a friend of the first man, spun Gajeel by the shoulder, sending his long black ponytail swirling around him. He heard her yelp–a sound that wrenched his gut–when the guy connected a fist to Gajeel's cheek, who only stumbled slightly. Head to the side, a grin and a chuckle spread on his face, as he touched the fresh cut on his cheek and looked at the blood on his fingertips.

Gajeel sidestepped ever so slightly and stood up straight, squaring himself protectively between the tiny woman and the man that had caught him by surprise. He flexed threateningly, muscles rippling beneath the struggling black button down. He was at least several inches taller, and he angled his chin upwards slightly to look down his nose at the offender. "Gihe… Nice shot," Gajeel rumbled, as the smaller man got a full look at who he had just hit, and realized that he had made a pretty catastrophic mistake. "Lemme show you mine," an apology had started to rise, Gajeel could see it, but he wasn't going to have it from trash like him. He wound again, and hit the poor idiot with an uppercut that sent him flying just like his buddy.

Only then did the bouncers finally catch up to what had happened so quickly, and Gajeel raised his arms in surrender as they roughly ushered him outside. A smile remained plastered on his face, especially when he heard Natsu shouting cheers from the other side of the bar.

He was shoved roughly onto the sidewalk and waved a dismissive hand at them, "Yeah yeah. Learn to do your actual job. I did ya a favor," Gajeel grumbled at them, dabbing his fingers at his sore cheek. Guess that's the end of my bar crawl. He plunged his hands into his pockets and started to make his way down the street back home to get cleaned up. Gajeel couldn't feel any regret for it, however. He'd do it again. Easily. That kind of shit wasn't going to fly, and hell if he was going to let anything happen to her.

"Wait!"

The sudden, very feminine voice behind him made him turn, and his face flared up again. There she was, stained dress and all, and half out of breath. Somehow, even in her ruined clothes, she looked absolutely perfect. How the hell, man. Who is she?

Levy's eyes swept over him, finally able to get a clear look at him, and a very noticeable blush spread on her features that was massively satisfying to Gajeel. Oh no. He's really handsome! she thought, alarmed that her savior was not only a very good person, clearly, but that he was mind-blowingly attractive. Which surprised her, given his unorthodox appearance. But somehow the piercings only seemed to accent his chiseled features, and the way his shirt protested against the muscles underneath was criminal. The intense red eyes were captivating in their own right, and that long black mane, pulled pack into a thick ponytail, only added to the sudden attraction.

When she saw his face, however, her eyes widened in surprise, "You're bleeding! A lot!"

"Yeah, it ain't a big deal," he replied nonchalantly. After a moment, he looked her over again, in a different manner. "You okay?" he asked, the gentleness in his tone betraying his appearance.

She smiled a warm, perfect smile, and nodded. "You're not though," she insisted, holding up a wad of napkins she must have stolen from the bar. Gajeel arched a brow and looked from her hand to her.

"I told ya, I'm–"

"Sit down will you?" she asked, "You're too tall," she added, an air of adorable embarrassment her tone. Fuck, with a voice like that he couldn't do anything but oblige, and he plopped down on the curb.

The girl walked over and rested a small hand on his shoulder–an action that sent fire throughout his body–to steady herself as she lowered down and sat next to him with her legs spread straight out in front of her to maintain her modesty. He couldn't take his eyes of her, especially when she reached up with one of the napkins and started to dab at his face. "Thank you," she said sincerely, his eyes torturously focused on her mouth.

"It was nothin. The guy was garbage," Gajeel mumbled.

"Seriously though, thank you," Levy said again. "I was stupid to look away, I know better. If you hadn't intervened, I'd be in trouble," she shuddered a little in a way that struck Gajeel with the sudden urge to wrap her in his arms and never let go again. To keep that tiny, beautiful woman safe.

"Glad to help, shorty." He replied, and the blunette suddenly pulled her hand from his face. He raised his brows, and couldn't help but laugh at the precious look of annoyance on her face and the angry flush on her cheeks.

"I am not that short!" she shot back.

"Gi he he! Yeah ya are. Even in those heels you don't even come close to eye level," Gajeel teased, savoring the reactions from her.

"I have a name y'know," she grumbled, resuming her care of his face. "I'm Levy."

"Gajeel," He responded. Her name was just as cute as the rest of her, and how that was possible was beyond him. "Sorry about the dress."

Levy smiled again, and the flutter in his stomach returned along with the burning blush on his face. "It's okay, I'll get another," she shrugged. 

I'll buy you one, he thought suddenly. 

"Funny way to meet someone, but nice to meet you, Gajeel," she replied with that bright smile of hers.

Gajeel stared at her for a moment, trying his best to quell the desire raging in him and the things her touch on his face was doing for him. It, however, was in vain. She had him entirely awestruck and she wasn't even trying. His eyes drifted down to her alluring, pink lips, and his mouth went dry as his mind went hazy.

The man reached out, and placed his hand–the same had that had ruined two grown men–incredibly gently on her cheek. Levy's cheeks lit up, but she did not protest as he leaned forward and swiftly, confidently closed the distance between them. His kiss was gentle, tentative, and it sent electricity through them both. It was a chance, and he didn't know if she would reject him. But her sharp intake of breath, the pressure she exerted back against him, and the hand that found a resting place against his chest and gripped at his shirt was the approval he sought.

The two broke apart, out of breath and hazy-eyed when cat calls and cheers erupted behind them. "That's the man!"

Gajeel looked past his–his?–company at Natsu, Grey and the others, along with the blonde girl that had come with his–his?–blunette. He groaned and rolled his eyes, but Levy merely giggled. "I wondered how long that would take them," he looked down her flushed, but very very happy face.

"You uh, wanna go out sometime?" he asked carefully, feeling nerves twist in his stomach. "I'd ask you to now but I'm sure ya wanna change."

Levy beamed and had him slain, for the umpteenth time, on the spot. "I'd like that. Without the entourage?" she jerked her head back at the group that had gathered.

"Definitely without any of them. Or guys I have to punch," he responded with a pleased smirk as he hauled himself to his feet first, then turned and extended a hand to her. Levy continued to beam, on cloud nine from the very unexpected conclusion to her night, and placed her tiny hand in his.