#zeke angst

[zeketarion]

can we please have a Drabble about Zeke being studded out by Marley to make a new generation of Warrior candidates ? You and I both know it would eat.

🫶😭 ofc, i love this idea

they looked so happy, hanging posters of his face on every corner. where children, big and small came to hope and stare. "warriors! the pillars of marley, the great shifter soldiers!" they often said. but it was all fake, marley didn't give two shits about their warriors, the soldiers they seemed to glorify so much. zeke's stomach stirred after every mission, bags of sleep grew darker from underneath his eyes as they worked him tirelessly, order after order barked at him like a dog.

"look at that…" pieck pointed, her attention focused on the children below the balcony, playing at being shifters. bittersweet, it was. "they have no idea," she added. zeke shook his head, smoke from his cigarette curling as it released from his mouth. "and it's me they're mimicking." he said solemnly, staring at one child in particular with the glasses so similar to his own.

"new generation of warriors they say." pieck sighed.

[haewchh]

𝐋𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 & 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤│𝐋.𝐀 - 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐎𝐧𝐞

𝐏𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠: Detective!Levi x Burlesquedancer!Reader

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: When the chief of police finds a lead for the infamous mafia murder case in the form of a burlesque dancer, he sends his coldest detective to investigate.

𝐓𝐚𝐠𝐬: detective/mafia au, 1950's au, SEXUAL TENSION, eventual smut, levi being pathetic (we love to see it), mentions of sex work, smoking, drinking, violence, mentions of death/murder, reader uses the fake name 'Vivienne', non binary hange <3

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 7k

𝐀/𝐍: HERE IT IS! part one is finally complete. Thank you so much for the support on the teaser, i'm so glad people are enjoying the trope. Part two should be out some point next week so please stay tuned! I hope no one has a problem with the 3rd person perspective, i didn't even realise until halfway through :/ THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR READING! it means a lot <3

❈────────•✦•────────❈

♬⋆.˚ 𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐝𝐨 𝐈 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐭 𝐬𝐨 𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮,

𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐢 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨? ♬⋆.˚

❈────────•✦•────────❈

New York. 1956. The city that never sleeps and never lets you forget it. Yellow taxis prowled the avenues, the beaming headlights cutting through the thick fog. The air stunk of wet concrete, cheap cigarettes and women's perfume. Couples stumbled the streets in their evening wear after hours of drinking the night away. Somewhere in the distance music wept, bleeding through the brick and grime.

“Hurry up, four eyes.” Levi spat. The collar of his coat was turned up, guarding his pale face from the late night winds.

“Just a second,” Hange mumbled, a cigarette planted between their lips. “This damn wind.” They shuffled around in the pocket of their tan trench before pulling out a metal cladded lighter.

“Hush levi, not like we’re on company time.” Erwin said with amusement.

“Tch.” Levi found himself leaning on the brick wall situated behind them, impatiently waiting for Hange’s cigarette to burn away. 

Of course, they were all familiar with this part of the city. The night life was truly a fever dream. Jazz, gin and too many bad decisions in too little time. In the dingy basement clubs, cards were being dealt, hips swayed to the trumpets and every stranger had a more interesting story than the one before. It was chaos wrapped in velvet. If you weren't careful, it would chew you up and spit you out again.

Levi just possibly couldn't understand why they were here, especially off the clock. ‘La Maison Rouge’ -a burlesque club buried under a pawn shop on 52nd. No sign, no welcome. Just a red bulb above a steel door and a doorman with bulging biceps.

“Please remind me why we’re here.” Levi muttered, his voice sharp with irritation. His dark silver eyes burned into the back of the blonde's head.

“I need you to meet a friend of mine.” Erwin replied. His tone is calm and unreadable as he stood with his back still turned.

“Oooo, so mysterious.” Hange drawled playfully, a crooked smile tugging on their lips as they gently tapped the end of their cigarette. The ash scattered lazily on the pavement, drifting beside their worn out boots.

Levi’s breath came out with a mist as he shoved his cold hands deeper into the pockets of his coat. “And what makes this friend worth dragging us out at this hour?” He spat.

“She agreed to help us with the yeagers,” Erwin said, finally turning his head ever so slightly. He paused for a moment, taking a gentle gander at his surroundings. “I believe she has some crucial intel, could make or break us.”

She? Levi’s mind caught on like a snag in a thread.

Before he could ask, Hange cut in with a teasing whistle, the sound echoing off the brick walls. “Erwin’s got a lady friend,” they said with a grin, stomping out their cigarette under the heel of their boot.

Hange stepped into the empty street, their figure briefly illuminated by the flickering streetlights above. They raised a hand in a silent signal, all business now. Erwin followed close behind, his long strides deliberate. Levi hesitated only a second before trailing after them, boots silent against the damp pavement.

Erwin greeted the doorman with a courteous nod, his voice calm and composed. The man stationed at the entrance was built like a wall. Broad shoulders, clean shaven, and dressed in an immaculate black suit. He didn’t speak, only returned the gesture with a solemn nod before stepping aside.

Without a word, the trio of detectives slipped past him and into the belly of the building. They were met by a narrow staircase that plunged downward, a dim light casting long shadows on the steep steps. They walked single file, their footsteps echoing faintly until they reached the bottom.

The room opened before them in a wash of deep crimson. It was all low lights and high sins, soaked in a moody glow. Velvet curtains lined the walls, all rich and heavy. Every table was dressed in flickering candlelight, casting golden halos across unknown faces.

Levi’s eyes swept the room with sharp precision. The bar was the first thing that truly caught his attention. It stretched along the far wall, shelves rising high and crowded with what looked like a hundred bottles of every booze imaginable.

Directly across stood a small stage, quietly commanding the room. Its edge was wrapped in a lush red fabric that glimmered under soft lights, a visual promise of a show not yet begun. In the ceiling above, bulbs hung like stars, illuminating the space with a tender glow. In the far corner, half-buried in shadow, a live band played slow, dirty jazz. 

Levi and Hange followed closely behind Erwin, weaving through the dimly lit crowd. They stopped at an empty table directly opposite the stage, the best view in the house. Without a word they slipped off their coats, draping them over the backs of the polished mahogany chairs.

Settling into their seats, they each took a quiet moment to adjust to the atmosphere. Levi leaned back slightly with his shoulders tense, his sharp eyes flicking across the room. Beside him, Hange looked around like a child seeing the world for the first time. They practically buzzed with excitement, taking everything in. In contrast, Erwin was unbothered. His gaze was steady and focused- he had definitely been here before.

Levi didn’t know how to feel. Sure, he’d been in plenty of bars. But this? This was something else entirely. There was elegance here, a kind of quiet danger. It was breathtaking in its own way.

A young man approached the table, slipping between guests with ease. He was dressed immaculately, a tailored vest, bow tie and a crisp white shirt. A towel draped over his forearm, in the opposite hand, a slim notepad and pen.

“Good evening,” he said with practiced grace, voice smooth but polite. “What can I get for you this evening?” He flicked the pen into position with a fluid motion, ready to take note.

“Two double whiskeys on the rocks and one house red,” Erwin said without pause, his tone clear and authoritative. The waiter nodded, jotting down the order.

“I’ll be back with that in just a moment,” he replied, already turning away from the table.

“Thank you,” Erwin added with a small smile, more habit than warmth.

As the waiter disappeared into the shadows, Levi let his gaze wander around the crowd. To the left was a pair of lovers leaning close, their whispers flirtatious. A few tables over, a group of men laughed loudly over a game of cards, their ties loosened and cigarettes burning low. Tucked in the corner, the elders swayed gently in their seats, eyes half-closed, letting the music carry them away.

“So,” Hange’s voice broke the silence, dragging Levi from his thoughts once again. They leaned forward with elbows on the table. Their chin resting on their hands as their eyes glinted with mischief. Before Levi could speak, the waiter returned. A silver tray balanced on his hand. One by one, he placed the drinks before them with care, the glasses clinking softly against the tabletop. All three mumbled their thanks, each reaching for their choice of drink.

“When are we meeting your lady friend, Erwin?” Hange asked, wiggling their eyebrows playfully.

Erwin brought the glass to his lips, eyes still unreadable. “You’ll see,” he replied, voice smooth as the liquor he swallowed.

Levi narrowed his eyes slightly, the burn of the whiskey on his tongue grounding him. Why was Erwin being so cryptic? he thought. Too many loose ends. Too many questions left unanswered. And Levi hated questions without answers.

All of a sudden, the thick red curtain began to rise. A hush fell over the crowd, followed by a growing wave of applause. It was light at first, then swelling into eager claps and scattered whistles. The golden stage lights warmed the air as anticipation bounced around the room.

On the far left of the stage, a slim blonde woman stepped forward, her figure catching the light like a diamond in the dark. She stood tall and poised in front of an old-fashioned microphone. Her dress dropped to the floor in length and was absolutely elegant. It was stitched in shimmering silver sequins that caught every glimmer of light. It clung to her curves with practiced precision, every movement sending ripples through the glittering fabric.

“I hope we’ve all had a wonderful night here at La Maison Rouge,” she cooded, her voice rich with a thick French accent. The audience clapped again as her lips curled into a knowing smile.

“I’m Marie,” she continued, her voice purring into the mic. “Not only will I be your host for tonight, but also the voice supporting our incredible band.”

A warm applause directed toward the shadowy corner of the stage, where the live jazz band sat quietly. A saxophone let out a playful trill, teasing the crowd. The audience responded with more clapping, showing appreciation.

“With no more time wasted,” Marie said, her tone dropping slightly into something more theatrical, her hand rising in a graceful sway, “I would like to introduce the one and only…” She paused, letting the silence stretch, expertly winding in the crowd.

“…Vivienne DeVille!” she finally announced.

The room exploded. Applause turned into chaos, shouts, catcalls, men pounding their fists against the tabletops with wild grins. The crowd surged with energy, a tidal wave of excitement crashing against the stage. A few women whistled too, laughter tangled together in the noise.

Levi blinked in surprise. He’d seen his fair share of burlesque crowds before. A bit tipsy, flirty, sometimes bold, but this? This was unrestrained. Electric. A reverence and hunger rolled into one. He glanced around the room, noting how the energy shifted. It was as if everyone was leaning forward in their seats, waiting for something unforgettable.

Guess he was about to find out.

The stage lights narrowed into a single spotlight. For a moment the stage stood still, just a mystery in the shadows.

And then she appeared.

Vivienne DeVille stepped through the velvet curtain with a sway in her hips that seemed to command gravity itself. She moved like honey, so slow and deliberate. Her crimson gown shimmered beneath the lights, each gem catching the glow like fireflies in the dark. Levi’s eyes graced her body. There was a slit high at the thigh to reveal a glimpse of stockings and garters underneath.

A matching red feather fan rested delicately in her gloved hands, its soft plumes fluttering as she glided toward the center of the stage. She paused there, one hand on her hip, the other letting the fan trail down her leg with a light tease. Her lips curled into a devilish smile.

She was stunning. And she knew it.

“Well, well…” she purred into the microphone, her voice velvet-smooth with a touch of grit, like good bourbon. “Looks like we’ve got a full house tonight…”

The crowd answered with hoots and hollers, drinks raised high and even some men shouting her name like it was a prayer. She laughed, a low musical sound that floated around the room like smoke.

“You boys behave, now,” she teased, trailing her gloved finger along her collarbone. “Or don’t. I like a little trouble.”

The band picked up a slow, sultry tune with a wicked undertone. She began to move in time with the rhythm. A graceful turn of her heel. A slight shimmy of her shoulders. She twirled the feather fan once, letting it trail behind her.

From the front of the stage, Levi couldn’t take his eyes off her.

There was a craft to what she was doing. A choreography, not just of movement, but of attention. Vivienne wasn’t just performing.

She was possessing the room.

Levi felt the pull like a rope around his neck. He was trained not to trust pretty distractions. But there was something about her. Something dangerous beneath the sparkle and glamour.

This wasn’t just a show.

This was a message.

And Levi intended to find out exactly what it meant.

The band slid seamlessly into a slow tune. It was rich with piano, a slight sigh of saxophone and complimented with a seductive play of bass. Marie started to sing, her voice matching perfectly with the rhythm. She didn't belt or blast, her voice was low and velvety. Walking forward, Vivienne started to tease the audience with the bare skin of her thigh.

At the table, Hange leaned forward, eyes wide with wonder. “Holy shit!” They shouted with a hushed tone. “Shes a goddess!” They were completely mesmerised.

Levi didn't say anything. He just stared.

Not like the other men shouting pet names toward the stage, trying to catch a glance from under her lashes. His gaze was sharp, analytical, and curious. He couldn't deny that something about her tugged at the air in his lungs.

She moved with the music, teasing as the feathers trailed behind her. Her eyes swept across the room. For a single second her gaze locked onto Levi. Just for a breath. Barely a moment. But he felt it. The rest of the crowd didn't notice, they were too drunk on her body. But Levi definitely caught it. A spark of something more behind that siren smile.

“That’s her.” Erwin said plainly, just loud enough for the others to hear. 

Hange's eyes flickered to him in surprise, “That’s your contact?!” They shouted as if they couldn’t believe it.

“Vivienne,” he murmured. “The woman that’s going to help us take down the yeagers.”

Vivienne turned her back to the audience slowly, her hands traveling up her sides and over her shoulders. She reached the clasp at the back of her gown and paused, just long enough to build a heartbeat of silence in the room.

The gown slipped down her arms with a whisper of satin on skin. It didn't fall. No, it glided down her body inch by inch. First her shoulders, then the graceful curve of her back. The sequins caught every glimmer as they dropped, glittering like falling stardust. Gasps and whistles scattered through the crowd.

Underneath, she wore black lace lingerie. It was delicate, vintage, and painfully devastating. The corset hugged her waist, it's intricate stitching shimmering faintly under the lights. Stockings clung to her legs, held in place by velvet garters that peeked out with every step she took. Her gloves were the last to go, peeled off finger by finger.

She faced the crowd again, lips curled into a cheeky smile. One arm slid up behind her head as she dipped her hip and turned in a slow circle, giving everyone a taste. Every flick of her wrist, every tilt of her head, every bend of her knee was poetry written in flesh. And as she reached the final chords of the song, standing center stage in nothing but black lace, she struck one last pose. A single hand on her hip, her chest rising with one slow breath.

Then came the eruption. Applause thundered with whistles and hollers.

Chairs started scraping the floors as people rose to their feet, desperate to show their admiration. Vivienne gleamed as she bowed with elegance, letting one arm sweep low while the other held the fan close to her back.

But as she straightened, her gaze drifted again.

Past the crowd. Past the chaos.

To them.

To him.

Levi.

It wasn’t flirtatious this time. It wasn’t a tease. It was something colder. Sharper. Intentional..

Then, just as quickly, it was gone.

She turned, letting the fan trail one last time along her leg, and walked offstage with the same grace she’d entered with. The curtain didn’t just close behind her. It swallowed her. One moment she was there, the next- gone. 

The band played on, shifting into a lively tune to stir the drunk and dazed. But at the detectives’ table, the spell hadn’t broken. Hange let out a breath that was half-laugh, half-exhale. “Jesus. I think I forgot how to blink.”

Erwin raised his glass, the ice now nearly melted. “She makes an impression.”

Levi didn’t answer. His fingers drummed silently on the table, his jaw tight, his eyes still fixed on the velvet curtain like it might open again.

He didn’t know what game Vivienne DeVille was playing.

But she had just become the most dangerous piece on the board.

❈────────•✦•────────❈

They found themselves in front of a dressing room door. Her dressing room door to be exact. Her name in bold red letters printed on the dark wood, decorated with all kinds of feathers and gems. Levi didn't know how to react after seeing such a performance. Of course he had seen women naked before but after what he just witnessed - It was like a Victorian man seeing bare ankles for the first time. He wasn't supposed to feel this way. He’d been trained to handle all types of manipulation.

Pretty distractions, they call it.

And for that reason, he decided he couldn't trust her.

He forced the thoughts away as Erwin raised a hand and knocked lightly on the door. The sound echoed like a tiny drum in Levi’s ears. A moment later, the handle rattled. Levi stiffened, suddenly aware of the fine sheen of sweat gathering along his brow.

The door creaked open.

Vivienne stood framed in the soft light of her dressing room, an image so composed it felt almost cinematic. She was wrapped in a gorgeous red silk robe, a black lace lining the edges. Levi caught, perhaps imagined, a glimpse of stockings beneath the hem. A quick flash of the lace garters tightening just above the knee. He immediately forced his eyes upward, daring not to look for his own sake. Her hair, once loose and wild on stage, was now swept into an elegant updo. Yet her makeup remained untouched, dramatic eyes and a dark red lip.

Despite every bad instinct he had,

Levi couldn’t help but think…she was utterly breathtaking.

“Erwin, what a wonderful surprise!” Vivienne greeted cheerfully as she threw herself forward into his arms.

“Lovely seeing you as always, Vivienne,” Erwin chuckled, embracing her with familiarity. The hug was brief but Levi couldn't quite suppress the small, bitter pang of jealousy that twisted low in his chest. 

“I’d like to introduce you to my colleagues,” Erwin added, stepping back with a polite smile.

Vivienne’s gaze shifted to the two figures on either side of her friend, curiosity lighting her features. That same radiant smile still played on her lips as she scanned them,

until her eyes locked with Levi.

It was nothing more than a second. But to her, it might as well have been a full minute, an eternity stretched thin between them. Her expression faltered, just slightly. Something in his stare had unsettled her, though she couldn't quite name it. 

She was intimidated.

And that realization both thrilled and unnerved her. She just didn’t know yet whether that would work out in her favor… or end very badly.

“This is Dr. Hange Zoë,” Erwin continued, gesturing to the brunette beside him. “Our specialist in forensic sciences.”

“Oh my, what a wonderful title to have, Dr. Zoë,” Vivienne cooed, reaching her hand forward with elegance.

“Oh please, that’s amazing coming from you, Miss DeVille,” Hange replied, gripping her hand in an enthusiastic handshake. “I must say, your performance was absolutely astonishing.”

“Don’t flatter me,” Vivienne teased, laughing softly. “It goes straight to the head.”

The two shared a warm chuckle, their energies bouncing off each other with surprising ease.

“And this,” Erwin interrupted, his voice taking on a slightly more serious tone, “is my partner, Levi Ackerman.”

Vivienne turned back to the man she had already exchanged a glance with, this time taking him in more fully. Levi stood with arms folded, dark eyes sharp and unreadable. His presence was quiet, but impossible to ignore.

The name clicked.

“You’re Ackerman?” she repeated, eyes widening slightly, disbelief flickering across her face.

That’s the reaction I get? Levi thought, mildly offended. Though, admittedly, not shocked.

“Surprised?” he said, voice flat but edged with curiosity.

“It’s just…” Vivienne began, still staring into his eyes, her voice carrying a playful lilt despite the flush rising to her cheeks, “When Erwin would speak about you, I imagined a grumpy old man.”

Hange burst into laughter, loud and infectious.

“I like this girl! She’s funny!” they cackled, dramatically wiping fake tears from their eyes.

Levi felt his ears burn. He looked away, breaking eye contact with Vivienne, which for some reason felt like a small defeat. He shot Hange a scowl sharp enough to cut glass and gave them a quick shove, more of a warning than real annoyance.

“I’m sorry if I’ve offended you, Mr. Ackerman,” Vivienne said quickly, her tone suddenly sincere. Her eyes were still on him, cautious now, almost tender.

Levi blinked. He felt a strange tug in his chest, something uninvited. Sympathy? No. It couldn’t be. That wasn’t part of the job.

“Tch. Don’t worry about it,” he muttered, waving it off with a cool shrug. “I get it all the time.”

“Sure,” Hange snorted beside him.

“Shut up, four eyes,” Levi snapped, shooting them another glare.

Vivienne decided to break the awkward atmosphere with a soft, practiced smile. “Why don’t you come in?” she said, gesturing with a graceful wave of her hand.

In a single file, the trio of detectives followed her inside.

The room was small, almost cramped, but it pulsed with charm and character. The walls were painted a rich, velvety crimson. Almost the same hue that covered the stage outside. A golden trim curled around the edges of the ceiling like vines, catching what light the bulbs gave off.

To the right, a glamorous dressing table dominated the wall, its surface cluttered in the most mesmerizing way. A large oval mirror sat at its center, surrounded by bright bulbs that glowed warmly. Makeup was scattered in organized chaos. Lipsticks left uncapped, powder dusting the glass, false lashes resting near crystal perfume bottles. Garments covered in sequins and silk hung carelessly over the plush-backed stool. It all felt intentional, a portrait of a life half-lived between performance and reality.

Opposite the vanity, a small leather couch was cramped against the left wall. It was aged and softened by use, its surface almost completely hidden beneath an explosion of throw pillows. Fluffy, tasseled, and decadent in every color imaginable.

Erwin and Hange sank into the couch with ease as Levi remained standing, posture stiff. After a beat, he allowed himself to lean slightly against the armrest beside Erwin, a small concession to the room’s warmth.

Without missing a beat, Vivienne perched on her stool in front of the mirror. She shifted through the beautiful mess, pulling out a small, sleek, silver case.

“Cigarette, anyone?” she asked, flipping open the case to reveal a neat row of thin, hand-rolled cigarettes nestled inside.

“Don’t mind if I do,” Hange mused, leaning forward with interest. They gently slipped one from the case with two fingers.

Levi said nothing. He just watched.

His gaze stayed fixed on Vivienne as she placed the cigarette between her lips. The motion was slow and deliberate, her fingers brushing her mouth. His eyes traced the shape of her cupid’s bow, the soft parting of her lips around the paper. There was something hypnotic about it, something dangerous.

Then, with a flick and a low click, a lighter sparked in front of her. Hange had already leaned forward, offering their lighter,  the same silver one Levi had clocked before. The flame flared to life, catching briefly in Vivienne’s eyes as she leaned forward to meet it.

For a second, Levi didn’t breathe.

The tip of her cigarette glowed orange as her chest lifted, her expression was so calm and practiced. She held the breath for a moment, then exhaled slowly. The smoke curled from her lips in delicate spirals, drifting upward to the ceiling above.

“Thank you, Dr. Zoë,” she murmured, voice slightly huskier now, the smoke wrapping around every syllable.

“Absolutely my pleasure, Madam.” Hange replied, grinning as they lit their own and sank deeper into the pillows.

❈────────•✦•────────❈

It was the morning after the three detectives had spent the night with the mysterious burlesque dancer. Levi still had no idea what the purpose of the meeting had truly been. He remembered Erwin vaguely mentioning her involvement with the mafia. He had been intentionally steering clear of anything specific, especially with Vivienne sitting right there in the room. That alone had made Levi suspicious.

The silence that followed only fed his unease. It had festered overnight and into the morning, leaving him restless. He was starting to feel like a pawn in a game he hadn’t agreed to play.

His thoughts were interrupted by a sharp knock on his desk from a junior officer. “Commander wants you in his office. 10 a.m. sharp.”

Levi glanced at the clock. 10:02.

The click of the door echoed in the dim room as Levi stepped inside Erwin’s office. The glass panels on the door rattled faintly as he shut it behind him. The blinds were drawn shut, slicing what little daylight remained into thin slivers that stretched across the floor. The room smelled faintly of burnt coffee and stale ink.

Erwin sat behind his heavy oak desk, sleeves rolled to his elbows, eyes narrowed behind thin-rimmed glasses. Papers were strewn across the desk in absolute mayhem and the man hadn’t bothered to look up once.

“Good morning, Levi,” he said smoothly, his voice low and casual.

“Morning,” Levi muttered, his tone flat. “You requested my presence?”

“Please, take a seat.” Erwin gestured with a flick of his pen, finally lifting his gaze as Levi eased into the leather chair opposite him.

“I need to ask you a favor,” he said, folding his hands neatly on the desk.

Levi arched a brow, already suspicious. “Do I have a choice?”

“Not in the slightest,” Erwin replied with a small chuckle.

Levi exhaled through his nose. Typical.

“I’ve handed over your current case to Mike,” Erwin said, picking up a pen and making a note on the margin of a document.

Levi’s expression instantly darkened. “Why on earth would you do that?”

“I’ve got a new case for you,” Erwin replied without missing a beat.

Levi leaned forward slightly. Despite himself, curiosity stirred in his chest.

“I’m listening.”

“The Rod Reiss case.”

Levi’s brow furrowed. “The politician who was murdered last month?”

Erwin nodded. “That one.”

A pause hung in the air like thick smoke.

“What do you need me to do?” Levi asked, voice cautious now.

Erwin’s pen froze mid-sentence. “There’s a reason I took you to meet Vivienne yesterday.”

Vivienne.

Levi’s mind spiraled back to her instantly. The Red lips, the smokey eyes, the stockings that ran up to her thigh, the cigarette between her teeth. She’d been a haunting presence ever since. No matter how he tried, she danced around his thoughts and he couldn't shake her off.

Erwin watched him carefully, as if reading the flicker of recognition on his face.

“I need you to be her bodyguard.”

Levi’s stomach dropped as the words hit him like a ton of bricks. “What?” he quickly snapped.

Erwin didn’t flinch. “It’s not just that,” he continued calmly. “Vivienne came to me a few weeks ago. She was in distress, claiming she had information about Rod Reiss’ murder.”

Levi narrowed his eyes. “And what’s the catch?”

“She asked for protection in return. I don’t know what, or who, she’s running from. She’s scared stiff, and so far she’s refused to name names.”

Levi crossed his arms, brows drawn. “The mafia.”

Erwin nodded solemnly. “It’s likely. I’ve given her time to settle in, but the higher-ups are growing impatient. They want answers and sooner than later.”

Levi’s jaw clenched. “So you want me to dig for those answers?”

“Bingo.”

“While also playing babysitter?”

“Ding, ding, ding,” Erwin said dryly, a faint smirk tugging at his lips.

Levi sat back in the chair, silent. The idea of spending time alone with Vivienne made his skin crawl but definitely not for the reasons he expected. It wasn’t fear. It was something more dangerous. Something intoxicating. Her presence unsettled him in ways he didn’t like to admit. It wasn’t just lust, it was like some sort of longing. His curiosity was getting the best of him, finding out more about this mystery woman was the only thing he could think about.

He exhaled slowly, eyes fixed on a crack in the floorboard.

“Fine,” he said at last, pushing himself up from the chair.

Erwin chuckled under his breath. “You’re a simple man, Levi.”

Levi’s eyes narrowed. “What the hell is that supposed to mean?”

Erwin only chuckled more, unbothered as always.

Levi rolled his eyes and turned toward the door. The handle clicked softly beneath his hand as he pulled it open. He had one foot out when Erwin’s voice followed him.

“She seemed very fond of you,” he said, the amusement plain in his tone.

Levi froze for a half-second.

“Fuck off,” he muttered, slamming the door behind him.

❈────────•✦•────────❈

Levi found himself standing outside the dressing room door once again, the familiar bold red letters glaring down at him like a warning. The hallway was quiet, dimly lit by a flickering overhead light. Levi turned his nose up at the faint smell of an old perfume, something bittersweet.

It had been nearly ten hours since his meeting with Erwin but the words still echoed in his head, looping like a broken record. He’d spent the entire day wrestling with the assignment- if you could call it that. Babysitting. No, guarding Vivienne. A woman he didn’t know. A woman he couldn’t stop thinking about.

Levi Ackerman prided himself on his discipline. His professionalism. He was like a man carved from concrete. He had handled some of the most gruesome cases in the department’s history without so much as blinking. Brutal murders, human trafficking rings, black-market organ deals. He never flinched, never hesitated. He didn’t waver halfway through a job. He didn’t waste time on feelings.

So why had he been standing there, staring at a damn door for four whole minutes?

He shifted slightly as his clammy hands flexed at his side. Tonight, he was dressed more sharply than usual. In a deep black suit, pressed to perfection. A crisp white shirt peeked out from beneath the lapels, his matching black tie knotted precisely. He even took the time to polish his shoes, enough to see his reflection.

He didn’t want to think about why he’d gone to that extra effort. Why he’d buttoned the collar of his shirt twice to make sure it sat just right. Why he’d paused at the mirror this morning for longer than he ever had in his entire life.

What the hell am I doing? he thought bitterly, jaw tightening.

But then again, what was so wrong about a man dressing well once in a while? he told himself, trying to brush it off. Maybe it had nothing to do with her. Maybe it was just... professionalism. First impressions and all that.

He exhaled through his nose, still glaring at the door like it had personally offended him. Deep down, Levi knew the truth he was trying to ignore. This job already felt different. And Vivienne? she was already under his skin in ways he didn’t want to name.

But the job was a job.

Finally, with one sharp movement, Levi gave the door a firm but measured knock. His knuckles tapped the wood, the sound echoing down the narrow hallway. He barley had time to breathe before the door opened.

There she was.

Vivienne stood in the doorway startled, frozen mid-motion as if she was about to turn away. The red silk robe clung to her frame, just as it had the night before. One side had slipped off her shoulder, hanging dangerously low and revealing the lacy edge of her red bra. The robe was short, barely brushing the tops of her thighs. It left most of her legs exposed, smooth and bare.

Her arms were uncovered, one still raised as though she’d been reaching for something moments before. Her hair was rolled up in wide curlers, loosely pinned and slightly askew. Despite the messy prep work, her makeup was flawless. Heavy eyeliner framed her eyes, and her lips were painted a shade darker than the night before, parted slightly in surprise.

“Oh!” she gasped, her wide eyes locking onto his. “Mr. Ackerman.”

For a brief moment, both of them just stood there. Time seemed to pause, caught in the space between them.

Her gaze flicked down quickly, realizing her state of undress. A pink flush rose in her cheeks, not from embarrassment exactly, but from the sudden awareness of how exposed she was. She hastily tugged the robe tighter across her chest, pulling it closed with a fluid, practiced motion. Even then, it didn’t do much to hide her silhouette.

“I- I wasn’t expecting you quite soon,” she added, her voice laced with breathless surprise.

Levi’s eyes, sharp as ever, didn’t roam. They didn’t need to. He kept his gaze locked on hers, expression unreadable. He’d seen countless women in far less, in far worse places. But this? This was different. It felt like walking in on something intimate, something uninvited.

“I can come back if this time doesn't suit you?” he asked, his voice low, gravelly, and far too steady for how his pulse was reacting.

Vivienne gave a soft nervous laugh, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear despite the rollers. “No, no. You’re fine. Just caught me in the middle of getting ready.”

She stepped back, holding the door open wider, her movements graceful despite the suddenness. “Come in, if you don’t mind the mess.”

Levi hesitated for a second, then passed through. Whatever this job was turning into, it wasn’t going to be simple. He was immediately greeted by a familiar warmth as he stepped into the dressing room. This time, it wasn’t just the dim glow of vanity lights or the plush furniture that struck him, it was the scent.

A thick curl of incense clung to the air, warm and musky with notes of sandalwood and something floral- lavender, maybe. The aroma hit him in the face like a soft slap, making him pause for a heartbeat. It wasn’t unpleasant, just unexpected. The scent made the room feel more intimate. More lived-in.

Vivienne had already drifted across the room. Her bare feet barely made a sound against the floorboards as she perched on the cushioned stool by her dressing table. Her every movement seemed like part of a practiced routine.He followed her lead, settling into the leather couch opposite her.  He experienced an immediate sense of déjà vu, but everything felt different this time, more deliberate.

“So,” Vivienne mused, her voice quiet as she angled her body toward him. A calm, polite smile curved her lips, though her eyes remained unreadable. “What brings you here, Ackerman?”

“I thought I'd introduce myself properly,” Levi replied, his tone flat as ever. He folded his arms across his chest, his posture firm. “Since we’re going to be working together.”

“Ah, I do recall,” Vivienne said, turning back toward the mirror, her voice soft and vaguely amused. “Erwin called this morning. I’m aware of the arrangement.”

Levi’s eyes, sharp and focused, couldn’t help but track her movements. She had begun pulling the rollers from her hair one by one. Her fingers nimble and delicate. Each motion revealed another soft curl falling gracefully to her shoulders. There was something oddly mesmerizing about it, the quiet intimacy of her grooming ritual.

“Erwin’s been rather blunt with me,” Levi muttered, eyes still following the rhythm of her hands. “I don’t think I’m quite as aware as you are.”

Vivienne tilted her head slightly, lifting a comb from the vanity and drawing it gently through the fresh curls. “He wants answers,” she said simply. “And you’re here to get them.”

“Yes, but-” Levi paused, his voice catching just slightly. “What about protection?” he asked, the words hanging heavily in the air between them.

She didn’t even flinch. “It’s simple,” she said, almost too casually. “I just need someone to accompany me from A to B.”

As she spoke, she swept her hair back into her hands, gathering it into a fist. She pinned and clipped each section methodically, transforming the loose curls into an elegant updo. She then opened a drawer beneath the vanity and drew out a red headpiece adorned with feathers and sequins. With careful precision, she secured it above her crown. For a moment, Levi forgot what he came to ask. He swallowed the knot in his throat.

“Who are you hiding from?” he asked, voice low.

Vivienne froze.

The air shifted, went completely still. Her fingers sat against the edge of the vanity. Her spine straightened slightly, as if instinct told her to brace. Slowly, her eyes met his through the reflection of the mirror. Her face was blank but her eyes betrayed her, a flicker of something fragile.

“How do I know I can trust you?” she whispered, barely audible.

“You have to,” Levi replied without hesitation, his voice like gravel. “What better bet do you have?”

She closed her eyes, slowly inhaling through her nose. A moment passed. Then two. And when she exhaled, she turned her torso. She faced him fully now. Her lips parted and her posture stiff.

“The Yeagers,” she said.

Levi didn’t react, he didn’t need to. He’d suspected as much from the start. Still, hearing it confirmed stirred something deeper. Of course it was them. A mafia job. A dangerous one.

“So you worked for the mafia?” he asked carefully, lowering his voice as if the walls might be listening.

Vivienne’s back straightened a little more. “I wouldn’t say that,” she replied quickly, her voice dipping into defensive territory. “I was an escort. Danced at parties. Entertained men. That’s all.”

“That’s it?” Levi pressed, watching her body language.

“That’s it,” she snapped before silence fell like a curtain between them.

They stared at each other, neither one blinking. No words passed, but they didn’t need to. The tension was alive in the space between their locked gazes, pulsing with everything unspoken.

Then Levi finally asked the question that had been clawing at the back of his mind.

“What do you know about the Rod Reiss murder?”

Vivienne’s reaction was immediate. Her entire face shifted, fear bloomed across her features. Her lips parted, her brows creased and her eyes widened with a horror that seemed to rise straight from her chest.

“I do not want to talk about that here,” she hissed, her voice trembling. She pointed a finger at him, angry now. Or terrified. Maybe both.

All of a sudden, the door burst open. A slender woman with a platinum blonde bob stood in the doorway, her silhouette framed by the golden hallway light that spilled in behind her. Levi’s eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of recognition sparking in his mind. The French singer from last night, he recalled.

She opened her mouth to speak, clearly prepared to announce something, but her eyes landed on Levi. The playful smile on her lips immediately fell as her entire posture shifted.

“Viv, I am so sorry!” she gasped, clutching her hand to her chest in dramatic apology. “I had no idea you had guests.”

“It’s okay, Marie,” Vivienne responded smoothly, offering the girl a reassuring smile. There was a practiced calmness in her voice, like this sort of interruption was routine.

“Just wanted to let you know your call’s in ten,” Marie said, her tone clipped but friendly. Though her gaze lingered on Levi a beat too long.

“We’re just wrapping up. I’ll be out shortly,” Vivienne replied with a gracious nod.

Marie hesitated, eyes bouncing between the two figures. “Alright… See you in a sec, Viv.” She started to turn away, but paused at the door to give Levi a polite nod. “Officer.”

Levi returned the gesture with a brief tilt of his head. The door clicked shut behind her, and silence reclaimed the room like a heavy fog.

Neither of them said a word.

Vivienne rose from her stool, the silk robe clinging to her curves as she moved to a cluttered corner. She bent, rifling through a chaotic pile of clothes, silks and sequins. Eventually, she retrieved a pair of sheer black stockings and returned to her seat.

“I know it’s my duty to tell you,” she murmured, her eyes fixed on the bundle in her hands, “But not here. I can’t bring those girls into this.” She didn’t look at him once as she spoke. 

“I understand,” Levi replied. His tone was calm, though his insides churned.

Vivienne began to scrunch the stockings in her hand, gathering the delicate material. Then with a slow fluid motion, she lifted one leg, pointed her toes, and slipped the fabric over them. The sheer nylon shimmered faintly in the soft vanity light as she smoothed it up her leg, past her calf and over her thigh.

Levi forgot how to breathe.

The sight felt like a punch to the chest. It was just so intimate, like watching something you were never meant to see. He forced his eyes to move elsewhere. To the vanity, to the worn couch, anywhere but the gentle sweep of her hands over her skin.

Pathetic, he chastised himself. Something so simple, yet it unraveled him.

He shifted in his seat uncomfortably, clenching his jaw. A sudden feeling of heat crawling up the back of his neck. He was trying, but failing, not to stare. It was like being under some spell.

Vivienne adjusted the stocking before lifting her robe slightly, revealing the edge of red sequined panties that sparkled under the vanity lights. They caught his eye like a flame catching paper. Levi tore his gaze away, shame prickling hot across his skin. He felt like a schoolboy again, caught somewhere between admiration and guilt. She clipped the stockings to the garter belt sat around her waist, pulling the edge of her robe back over her thighs.

Finally, Vivienne broke the silence.

“That’s it for tonight, Ackerman. Showgirl’s gotta work.”

Levi stood immediately, almost too quickly, as if her words had unshackled him. “Of course,” he muttered, smoothing his slacks, painfully aware of his clammy palms. He wiped them discreetly against his thighs as they both crossed the room.

As he reached for the door, she stopped him.

“Are you staying to enjoy the show?” She was almost teasing, but her eyes were serious.

The temptation was a living, breathing thing in the air between them. He definitely wanted to know what was under that robe.

But Levi knew better.

“I’ve got a few errands to run,” he said, his voice carefully neutral.

“Right,” Vivienne murmured, and there it was, a note of disappointment she didn’t bother to hide.

“I hope I didn’t intrude,” he added awkwardly.

She stepped closer, closing the gap. Her fingers reached up, brushing against the fabric of his tie. She straightened it just slightly, her gaze lifting to meet his.

“Oh, trust me, Ackerman,” she said, her voice smooth and sultry, “You could never intrude.”

His breath caught in his throat. Her eyes locked on his, and in that moment, Levi felt completely unmoored.

“Viv! You’re on in five!” someone shouted from the hall.

Vivienne didn’t flinch. “Got it!” she called back, before tugging on his tie gently.

“Catch you later, officer.”

She released him with a final glance. She then turned, disappearing into the hallway with a sway of her hips. Her scent lingered in the air.

Levi stood there as if she’d knocked the wind out of him.

Leave. Now.

The voice in his head pounded.

He huffed under his breath, running a hand through his hair before forcing himself to move. He strode down the hallway, trying not to think. Not about her. Not about the things he’d seen, or the way she’d looked at him.

But just as he neared the end of the corridor, a sound caught his attention. Voices- feminine and full of laughter.

He inched closer to the stage door, his detective instincts kicking in whether he wanted them to or not. He paused by the wall, just out of view.

“He’s gorgeous, Viv! Where did you find a man like that?” Marie’s voice sounded amused.

“I didn’t. He found me,” Vivienne replied, a hint of mischief in her tone.

“He’s a little short though, don’t you think?” another girl chimed in, a voice he hadn't recognised.

Levi frowned at her words.

“Oh, shut it, Coco. You’re only jealous,” Vivienne shot back. “Besides, we’re all the same height lying down.”

A long, seductive whistle followed. Then laughter erupted, filling up the room.

Levi couldn’t stop the smile that curled on his lips. He shook his head, hands in his pockets before making his way to the exit.

trying not to think too hard about the woman who had him completely whipped.

[daemontargaryenwhore]

wait, does that mean Zeke represents the apple? the exchange they made was the power Zeke could give?

[r4inersslut]

Reiner x Reader x Porco

tw: mentions of losing a parent.

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·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

It had been a long day in the nation of marley. running a fruit stand wasn’t even close to one of the hardest thing that you could ever do, obviously. but, I would admit that was tiring staying out in the heat for as long as I did, maybe it would cool down in a few days. I was packing my shop up, as it was near the end of the day, when I hear the familiar voice of a mischievous young girl call out to me.

“____, you really gonna leave already without giving us a free sample?!?” I could already tell who it was. I turn around with a smile on my face and there I saw my favorite group of kids, gaby, looking all excited whilst, falco, zophia and udo stood behind her, like it was all her idea and she was the mastermind. which, I knew she usually was.

“well, you see gaby, I could.. but you guys forget that the point of running a market is…. to make money..”

“can’t do that if you little weasels come and ask for free stuff all of the time.” I laugh, quickly making my way towards gaby, putting her in a headlock. I proceeded to give her a few hard sisterly nudges on her head. “plus, I thought samples were one time things only.. dork.” I add my sarcastic remark “hey!!!” she attempts to squirm out of my grasp, she was a strong little thing, but she just couldn’t find a way out. I was very close with all of them ever since reiner went all no contact on us.. well I’d like to believe it’s “us” and not just me, but id just be delusional. he had always been away for long periods at a time, but even then he would try to stop by and at least try to have lunch, my mom cooked for him whenever he got back, she was very upset that he just stopped coming over. I would hear gaby talking to everybody that she knew about him every so often, I would ask how he’s doing or what he was up to, she would just say he was doing fine. eventually I had stopped asking a long time ago and ended up keeping it that way, they were cousins.. they were supposed to talk, I really had no place to ask or say anything. but, It still just made no sense to me.. if he’d been around why hadn’t he at least stopped by to see me at least one time, could you possibly be that busy? once I had let go of gaby, I started to talk. “I’m just teasing you guys..! here, you little things need to eat anyway, and some good stuff at that.”

“___, you know you don’t have to, right?” falco adds, “falco, stop being such a baby.” gaby grumpily adds while giving him a somewhat gentle shove. falco was just nice and careful, but that didn’t mean he was a baby. “you guys, if I was really struggling I would have stood firm on my decision.” I headed back behind my stand and start chopping a pineapple. “besides, I bet you guys have never had this before, I just got an import from somewhere in the south, I haven’t had it in years. maybe you guys might like it.” zophia glances at it, she quietly starts to speak, “so.. spiky..” udo nods his head along with her statement. “what is it??” falco questions. “somewhere in the south??” gaby wondered. “a pineapple.” I replied

“pineapple?!? those look nothing like apples.” udo adds. I started to laugh a bit. “well, take it up with the person that named it.” I shrug “so lame.” gaby had to add her two cents into the conversation. as I finished up cutting the edges of the pineapple to give them, I couldn’t help but listen to them talk. “pineapple is so confusing, I would have named it spikefruit or something.” gaby shakes her head. “yeah sounds cooler.” udo nods, I end up laughing to myself a bit and hand them all their pieces. I calmly wait for their reactions. I already had one, plenty actually. I’ve had many fruits since being a vendor, but pineapple is by far one of my favorites, my mind starts to go blank for some reason.

- - - - -

“reiner, get back here!!!” I yell as I start chasing my friend reiner. we had been close for years, but he was always just so sneaky. “you’re gonna have to catch up to me.” he yells back with a smile, while carrying one of the fruits from my mother’s shop. I start to gain a little speed from being so frustrated that he decided to just take off like that. my mom left me to watch over the shop for awhile, but reiner decided that he wanted to run off and take something with him, this is why I told him to run back home, I was fine and didn’t need any help because he was no help at times. she would most likely get mad at me if she found out that someone was sneaking around and stealing her produce, especially if it was one that she rarely gets imported, even worse if all of her stuff was gone by the time I got back. I was thinking about it, we still needed the money, and reiner dipping off and taking things wouldn’t help that at all. reiner runs for as long as he could, until he stopped on a long stone staircase, plopping down on the ground with the fruit in his hands. I catch up to him up the stairs, but my breathing is rapid. I had to catch my breath before I spoke. “give.. that… back..” I tried to tell him, I had to say each word slowly. I try reaching out and grabbing it from his hands, but he dodged me swiftly every single time “come on… (your mom’s name) wouldn’t mind.. besides, she loves me..” He raises his eyebrows up and down in a cocky manner, trying to swoon me into letting have it, this bastard.. even if I wanted I still wouldn’t be able to get it from him anyway. I look at him, not pleased in the slightest maybe he was right.. my mom wouldn’t mind, she was always the nice lady that let people try her stuff for free, and she loved reiner. I start to become more at ease. “fine..”

“what is this thing anyway..??” he stares at me all confused. “It’s a pineapple..”

“pineapple? never heard of it before.. it’s very spiky though, how do you even eat it?” he adds, while looking all around at it. I just laugh, this idiot goes and steals something.. and he doesn’t even know what it is. I knew it wasn’t the most pleasing to look at. “you don’t eat it like that, you have to cut it open.. in the inside its yellow, and if you get a good one, they taste really really sweet” I pull out my pocket knife that my mom gave me. “but, in the middle it’s kind of hard, so you have to eat around it, unless you’re one of the people that like it.” I take it from him and attempt to slice it open.

“how would you know..?” he bluntly replies, but then catches himself, remembering that my mother literally owned a fruit shop. “oh.. never mind.” he laughs and I start to laugh along with him. I ended up cutting it open and giving him a slice, waiting for his reaction. his face lit up when he bit into it and tasted it for the first time. knowing that he liked it as much as I did made me happy, maybe it was worth it after all. “where does your mom even get these??!! you need to tell her to get more.” he said, chewing with his mouth open as he obviously liked it, maybe too much. “like, all the time..” he adds.

“I don’t know where, she said she gets them from somewhere in the south” I laughed at him, but noticed that he was being improper.

“and close your mouth, finish saying what you want when you’re done eating.” I shake my head as I look at him.

“sorry.” he says, but food was still in his mouth.

“you’re doing it again reiner!”. “sorry!!!” he laughs. I lightly hit him in the shoulder a couple of times in a playful manner. “ow..ow!!” he gets up and runs in circles away from me. “get over here!!” we both laugh as we chased each other around. later, reiner soon went on to devour the whole thing.

—————

“____, you okay? you’ve been staring over there with a strange face for awhile.” falco comes over and taps me lightly a few times. “yeah! I’m.. just fine!” I shake my head and exclaim really enthusiastically, almost too enthusiastic that it was kind of off. “I was just thinking about things I have to do later.” I laugh. falco looks at me and nods suspiciously, with a worried smile. I start to get annoyed that I even got reminded of him, maybe it would be best if I had just went on with life like I had never met him at all, but it was going to be hard. “well, ____! that was one of the most delicious things that I have ever had!! you should get more of those spikefruit things” gaby exclaims.

“thank you.” zophia calmly says.

“anytime guys..” I smiled. they ended up thanking me again and again, saying their goodbyes and then leaving. I had to continue packing up my shop..

for the next few days I continue what I always did, every day. sold fruit for hours, went about my life, thinking maybe I should just try to do something else. but.. I was stuck thinking about my mom, this was her shop and this is what she was passionate about, after all. she would have wanted me to keep it and continue. besides, I’ve been here ever since I could remember. I shake my head, and laugh to myself for thinking something so dumb.. why would I ever get rid of it? plus I barely have enough money to keep going about life anyway. I need it.

as I close down my shop, I put the remaining items in a cloth bag that my mom had made for me awhile back, and started walking back to my house. the walk took a few good long minutes, but I had ended up at my front door sooner than I expected. I attempted to get they house key out of my pocket, but ended up dropping a few things from out of the bag when I leaned over, I ignored it and continued to open my door, I sat the bag down inside near the door and turned back around to get on my knees trying to pick up the things that had fallen. “need some help?” I heard the deep voice of a man call out from a few feet away. I didn’t recognize who it was, nor did I ever bother looking up to see, there were plenty of nice people around where I lived, all willing to help with anything. I just continued picking the fruits up. “It’s okay don’t worry about it.. I’m fine, thank you sir.” the man laughed as he approached even closer. “sir?” he stopped. “that really does sound so weird coming from you..” as soon as he said that, I looked up and saw someone that I didn’t think I would ever see.

reiner, all professional.. looking down at me.. I was hesitant to even say anything, I just had this confused look on my face, almost as if I had seen a titan. “what..? did I do something?”. he asked, upon seeing me. It kind of made me angry seeing him all nonchalant and kiddish about everything like I hadn’t seen him for awhile.. over a year.. maybe even two, I started to think perhaps awhile would be an understatement itself. I start to speak up. “did you do something??” I scoff, I should’ve just went inside then and there, but it didn’t. “I… just wanted to see how you and (mom’s name) were doing.. it’s been a while, I thought maybe you’d be happy to see me.” his tone of voice started to change, he rubs the nape of his neck awkwardly.. I rolled my eyes, continuing what I was doing. treating him as if he were any other ordinary person stopping by, but I knew that he wasn’t. I opened my door and proceeded to put the remainder of the fruits in the bag that I sat near the door a few moments ago. then afterwards I turn my attention back to him. “did you need anything else?” I look at him with a blank expression, trying to be as calm as possible. he thinks about what to say for a bit, and then starts to talk “look, I get it. I’m sorry.. I am. I should have stopped by sooner.. but come on, you shouldn’t be so abrupt..”

“huh..? no, you don’t get it.. It’s been so long that I forgot what you even sounded like, is that normal to you reiner!?” my voice started to raise, I basically started to snap.

“___…” he tries to call out to me by my name but I just ignore it. my eyes started to water, but I just stood there and hoped that it wasn’t noticeable. “It’s been so long that I never even got to tell you that she got sick and passed away..” I said, my voice cracking as I tried to speak. “months ago..” I added

“now I just do things alone.” I shrugged.

reiner looked honestly appalled to hear what I had just said. almost like he was in disbelief that things had even happened like that, but he knew what he did. maybe he thought time flew by and it hadn’t actually been that long. maybe that’s why he approached me the way he did. I was so lonely after my mom had passed, I had nobody to talk to, and the only person that I wanted to talk to, well, the only person I was ever close to was never there.. “___, I.. just..” reiner tried to speak but i just wouldn’t let him “i appreciate you stopping by. but, it would’ve been best if you just.. didn’t...”, my voice was almost emotionless, I didn’t even feel like crying anymore.

“___.. I’m sorry, I don’t know why I didn’t ever stop by.. I really do feel horrible, I didn’t know.... I’m sorry!! and if i did i would have a long time ago-!” he sounded angry with himself, but I didn’t really pay any attention to it, that’s how he should feel. I cut him off. “of course you didn’t know.” I angrily reply, “because you never came..” I soon just sigh and laugh, because that’s honestly all I could do. “you know what.. just forget it reiner. forget you were even here, everything. just forget about it..” I shake my head and end up closing the door in his face, I saw him try to reach his hand out before I did it, but I didn’t care. I felt him linger in front of the door for a few long moments until he decided to accept whatever happened and walked away.. good, I didn’t ever want to see him again anyway. especially after what he did, it was so messed up. I went to sleep and tried to forget about what happened, I was trying to forget before, but now it would be even harder. I thought, maybe I was being too harsh… maybe it hadn’t been as long as I thought it was, he had nothing but good intentions or so he thought. but then I thought about it again... remembering what I had to go through, having to listen to my mom asking about what happened to reiner and why he never stopped by anymore, even when she was sick, telling her that I didn’t know, never did, and having to go on with life without anyone to at least talk to about things made regret ever thinking I was being too harsh. but he’s his own person after all. he had other things and people to worry about, he always did.

i get up from bed, and since it was morning I thought maybe I’d take a shower and put a dress on to take a stroll around before work. try and eat near the sea and get some fresh air, since that was where I went when it was time to pick up my fruits, I had always liked looking out there into the ocean. I started walking past the markets, and then to the dock, seeing everyone scattered around..working. I go to the very edge where I sat down and let my legs hang off of the small ledge, I brought myself something to eat in a little bag. I look out into the water, it was so pretty. I always thought we were extremely privileged to even be able to live next to something so beautiful, my mom would take me here sometimes. I start eating without a care in the world. “hey!” I hear someone shout out. I thought I already knew who it was, so I just start packing up, maybe it was one of the workers telling me to move for an oncoming ship. “yeah, I uh.. I’m really sorry, I just wanted to see it for a few minutes.. I’ll leave.” I had finished putting everything in my bag, getting up to make make my way towards the entrance of where I came from. “are you always this absent minded?.” the mystery guy laughs. “I don’t work here, just wanted to say I thought you looked lonely, plus it might be really dangerous if you fall in.” he smiled “well, i don’t mind, i guess its worth the risk. it’s peaceful..” I shrugged, looking at him.. what did he even want and who was he? “crazy one aren’t you? but i don’t think its peaceful if you’re always alone, or if you end up dying because you can’t swim..” he laughs at me yet again. I looked at him all confused. “great… I’m so pathetic that I make people I don’t even know feel bad for me, huh?” I start to mumble to myself, I guess it happened to be loud enough for him to hear me. I roll my eyes and then storm off. “ugh.” what was his deal? he looked like he got caught off guard “hey! what? that’s not-..” he tried to yell from behind me, I just shut everything out.

“wait, come back!” he tries to catch up with me, what is this guys deal? I don’t even know him, and I knew he was just inches away. “and how do you even know if I’m always alone or not?!? you weirdo!” I turn around as I swat my bag at him with all of my food still in there. I end up hitting him a couple of times, some of the food ended up falling out as well.. what a creep. “ow!” he tries to block wherever the bag landed with his arms and steps away. “look, this might sound weird but I’m not a stalker alright?!?” he tries to explain “I just see you around.. you run that one fruit shop right?” I soon remembered that I wasn’t invisible, and that people remembered my face. I calmed down, and soon started to feel empathetic, but still.. why was he watching me? “yeah.. I do run it.. but, what’s it to you? just leave me alone.” I continue walking, ever since everything happened with my life I’ve just been different. I didn’t even like talking to people anymore, let alone someone who was basically making fun of me. “look I apologize okay?! I didn’t mean to make you feel any sort of way, that was never my intention..” he exhaled as he continued talking afterwards “this was a bad first introduction, I know..” I end up stopping and looking back at him.

“and I do feel bad.. I really shouldn’t have made that assumption about you..” I just stare at him for a few seconds before giving a small nod.. “look, It’s fine.. have a good day sir, alright?” i reply, giving a little smile, before walking away and sighing to myself. If what I said before wasn’t indication that I just wanted to be left alone, that definitely was. I keep on my way, thinking maybe I should have cussed him out, and let people stop walking all over me for once, or if I should have just let him speak and say what he wanted to say.

whatever, at least he said sorry I guess.

I get back home, regretting that I ever went outside. no wonder I always stay in when I can. I end up taking another shower since I was out in the sun. soon I had to set up my shop, I just thought it would be a nice experience to eat and get some fresh air, but I don’t think I’ll ever do that again.

I sat at my shop and ended up selling to a decent amount of people. the man who owned the market, joseph came by. “___, you’re short on payments.. I’ll need that by the end of tomorrow.. got it?” he said in a disapproving tone, but he wasn’t too demanding. “really?? I.. I thought I was good for the next few days.” I couldn’t help but bury my face in my hands in sheer disappointment… “I’m sorry, I wish it said otherwise on my papers. you’re a good kid ___, and I’m really sorry about what happened, but I’m gonna need it by tomorrow when the market closes up.” he looks at me all sympathetically before eventually walking away while I was too caught up thinking about what to do. I just wanted to scream. I didn’t think I had enough to even cover what I owed, since I didn’t know how much I owed. I start to get frustrated that I didn’t think to ask. but, I was in public and didn’t want any attention on me if I just kicked something or yelled as loud as i could. I just sink down in my chair, waiting for the next person who wanted to buy anything. hours go by, soon I managed to rack up a good dozen gold coins or so maybe I’ll be on the right track if I sell more and more every day.. but I then realized that he said he needed it by tomorrow. I bang my head on the wooden pillar of my stand. I wanted to continue selling here, but I wouldn’t have any choice in the end if I can’t keep up with my payments, I can barely afford to keep my shop, how will I even be able to eat? or even import stuff to sell? “I wouldn’t recommend doing that, you’ll hurt yourself.” I hear someone call out. I jolt my head over to the voice and immediately sigh.. “you again?” I start to get annoyed. why did he decide to show up, I would have been fine without seeing him ever again.

“yeah, me. I.. just wanted to talk to you.”

“what could we possibly talk about?”

“I just wanted to say sorry again, I mean it.. I still feel bad for what I said, I was out of line.”

“I already said it was fine, I don’t need another apology from you, you’re just wasting your own time and energy.” I turn my back and start organizing my shop.

“I just didn’t know how to talk to you..” he stood there for a few long moments before he finally gained the courage to admit what he had been holding back. when he had said that, I ended up turning around and looking at him with a blank expression, “it’s easy, just don’t. I’m not anyone special.” I shrug. maybe it was me, I act so nonchalant about everything, no wonder I was always doing things by myself. “I wouldn’t speak about yourself like that either, it’s not good for you” I was expecting this guy to walk away, but he just didn’t.. why did he even care..?

“I realize I never told you my name..” he nervously chuckled. “it’s porco.. but sometimes people just call me by my last name, galliard..” he shrugs. I stare at him before nodding. “okay galliard, did you need anything?” I kept up with the whole uninterested thing.

“maybe your name too, would be nice.”

“___.” I bluntly said before I continued what i was doing.

“you’re so straightforward..” he shook his head. “that’s fine, I know someone that’s almost exactly like you, ___..” he carried on. “did you need any help?” he went on with trying to talk to me, almost like he saw right through me. “I’m fine, just go do your own thing.” I replied back to him.

“that’s kind of the thing.. I have some free time, and I don’t mind helping you if you need it.”

“besides, that’s the least I could do.” he looks down at you, doing whatever you were doing, attempting to be convincing. I stood there for awhile until I made up my mind. “look, do whatever you want.. just be quiet okay?” I finally say. “great, thank you! what do you want me to do?”

what a weird one...

“well I wanted you to leave me alone, but I guess you can organize these if you want.” I accidentally let out a small laugh as I hand him a basket of produce..

“ha! I guess you’re not so mean after all..” he smiles as he takes it from me, and it took everything for me not to grab a bag and swat it at him again.

“hey, that doesn’t mean i—!!”

—-

as porco finished up helping her with the stand, he said his goodbyes and made his way back to the marleyan base. he found his good friend reiner roaming about and decided that he had to tell him about what happened “so, you know that girl I was talking about, the one that ran that shop?” porco questioned. reiner nodded, porco was always blabbering on and on about random women every chance he found one that was his type, but none ever worked out, it was kind of no surprise that he had something to say. “did it go well?” reiner furrowed his eyebrows, wondering how things went last time, since the other one ended up being uninterested. “did it go well???” porco repeated reiner’s question.

“It went better than i thought it would, actually.. I thought I messed everything up at first.” porco then continued to tell him the rest of the story.. reiner started to hear something that gave him a very familiar feeling..

the teasing, the owning the fruit stand, the stubborn girl that refused any help, the way that she hit him a couple of times. reiner started to stare off into the distance for a few moments before looking back at porco.

“say, porco.. did you…ever get her name?” reiner asked. porco just gave him a very confused look in return.

“yeah. of course I did, but it’s not like you would know her anyway..” porco giggles. “yeah.. I guess you’re right.” reiner attempts to laugh along with him, but something seemed off. “anyways I’ll tell you if anything else happens, I gotta head down to train with pieck. see you later reiner!” porco runs off all happy, and child-like. reiner’s mind starts to wander.

hm…

fruit stand.. huh?

[marleys-freak]

• pairing: zeke x warrior!gn!reader (reader is afab though)

• synopsis: zeke uncovers your secret and offers the only solution he can think of

• cw: pregnancy (but it's NOT happy), miscarriage mention

• word count: 1.2k

• author's note: I thought this would be a pretty interesting concept, please don't think too hard about the logistics as I deliberately kept some things pretty vague, this isn't really meant to fit perfectly in the plot cause...how could it. anyway not sure when I'll write the other chapters as this was pretty uncomfortable to write ngl?? lol

Chapter 1: Departure

As you sat on the bed, your demeanour shifted from cold and tense to terrified and erratic in minutes. You first seemed to almost physically crumble from the weight of your problems, but then heavy sobs tore themselves from your throat, only interrupted by quick gasps for air. Even so, every time you breathed, you looked like you might choke or vomit. Maybe both.

It scared Zeke. Especially when the past few weeks had been so strange. You were distant and very obviously avoiding him. He didn't want to be pushy. You've been patient with him at every turn, when his mental health got bad or when he was incapacitated by the countless lumbar punctures inflicted upon him. You were always what he needed.

Still, he couldn't deny that he was a little hurt. He really did like you and thought you might be soulmates.

Now, he was hesitant even to just reach out to touch your shoulder. He may have been sitting right next to you, but he felt as though he'd never been so far away from anybody.

"What's wrong?" he asked clumsily, knowing you probably wouldn't be able to answer him.

Zeke was correct, you were sobbing so hard there was no way for you to get any words out and even if you had been physically able to do so it may have not been possible mentally, you just couldn't will yourself to say it no matter what. So, instead of saying anything, you staggered to your feet and began to remove your coat. Your sweaty hands were shaking so violently, undoing every button was a struggle. When you finally managed to open the garment, you slipped it off your trembling shoulders and hung your head. Tears spilt down your face endlessly and left small, wet marks on your shirt.

Zeke seemed slightly confused at the gesture, but he anxiously adjusted his glasses and tried to maintain a neutral expression. He didn't see anything out of the ordinary.

He helplessly opened his mouth and then closed it again. He felt like whatever he might say could potentially make everything worse. Even though he would've given anything to know the right thing to say to you in that moment, anything to help you calm down.

You sensed his confusion so next you untucked your shirt and roughly yanked it up to your chest.

Sure enough, there it was.

Inconspicuous enough beneath several layers of clothing but with nothing covering it, unmistakable.

You were pregnant.

Zeke's eyes widened behind his glasses. He couldn't truly believe what he was seeing. If he could've made a rational, conscious decision, he most definitely wouldn't have reached out to touch it, but he had to. It was the only way to verify that his eyes were, in fact, not deceiving him. As soon as his palm made contact with your warm skin, you flinched and quickly pulled away, but so did he.

Suddenly, Zeke too felt rather sick, the reality of the situation finally sinking in. Still, he tried his hardest not to let his emotions get to him, not now. After all, at the end of the day, it was in your body. He could've technically ran away from it all, literally or, more likely given his circumstances, figuratively. He could've pretended this had nothing to do with him...not that he planned to.

You weren't so lucky, you were trapped in this nightmare no matter what.

"Can...c-can you get rid of it?" he asked, his voice trailing off, not daring to look you in the eyes. You were grateful. You couldn't bear to look at him either.

After taking a shaky breath and nervously licking your lips, you finally spoke. "I tried, I mean I-I wanted to...but then I was too scared. I didn't know who to turn to."

You felt a pang of guilt in your chest. Normal parents would be overjoyed, but you weren't normal parents. Even thinking of the word "parent" made you want to crawl out of your skin.

Zeke tried to steady his breathing even though the pit in his stomach grew by the second. You were not to blame. In your position, he would've been terrified too, hell, he was terrified enough as is. There really was no escape.

"I understand...so how long...how..." Zeke breathed, his voice unsteady, finding his throat too dry to ask what he wanted, but you knew what he meant.

A few moments passed in complete silence before you replied, your voice barely audible.

"I...I don't know. Weeks and weeks...months even."

You swallowed and awkwardly twisted your waist one way then the other as if getting a better look at it would somehow provide you with an accurate answer.

The longer you stared at it, the more horrified you became. It was easy enough to ignore it initially. Even once you started to show, it wasn't too hard. You just had to wear more layers. Out of sight, out of mind, right? But you couldn't fool yourself, not forever. You tried acting like nothing was wrong, but it was difficult when you could think of nothing but methods you could possibly use to induce a miscarriage.

Knowing that it was growing stronger every day frightened you, and before you knew it, the swell of your abdomen was getting difficult to conceal.

Zeke held his head in his hands.

He never wanted children. You never wanted children. Or, more accurately, it was never something you'd think of, even putting your shared worldview aside. People like you did not have babies. Warriors were warriors. Not parents.

Neither of you had more than a handful of years left to live, not nearly enough. Who would care for it after both of you perished? Zeke's parents weren't around anymore, and neither were yours. Would his grandparents be willing? Or even...Eren?

No, no way. That was wishful thinking, not to mention completely unrealistic. Before you'd die, would you be able to find anyone who had the heart to take in a toddler about to become an orphan?

No. It'd be much more difficult than that. Anyone would eagerly take it, the successor of the Wonderboy.

Marley would train it into a warrior in no time. A super soldier, much like Zeke and with royal blood, no less. Endless war, anguish, conquests, countless experiments, and lumbar punctures. A massively shortened lifespan.

Still, nothing could be done anymore. Nothing made sense, and neither of you could think clearly.

Zeke briefly lifted his head and reached out towards you to gently pull your shirt back down over your stomach. For your own sake and his, neither of you could look at it any longer.

"I'm sorry," you muttered, your voice hardly a whisper as you sat back down next to Zeke.

"No, I'm sorry I had been careless. Clearly, I should've taken more precautions, and now I've put you into this situation. I'm sorry."

Suddenly, Zeke felt you embracing him for the first time after weeks of barely any interaction. You clung to him grimly, finally your gasping sobs dissolving into sniffles and hiccups. Despite the circumstances, wrapping your arms around Zeke and feeling his surprisingly soft, warm scent was heavenly. Being so close to him again made you almost believe that things could turn out well. Somehow.

He nuzzled his cheek against your neck, and from the way he was breathing, you could tell he was crying too.

"Let's get out of here. Let's leave Marley," he whispered abruptly.

He wouldn't let you down. This was your only chance.

[nyny-berry71]

You plus me is not equal us:

Yan/Zeke Jeager x reader

1-

Being able to live freely without the constant pressure of a nation wanting to drain every ounce of life from you must be paradise on earth.

Yet, when you come to the world with the curse of being born the descendants of Ymir, you cannot even imagine a world coming close to your dearest dreams.

This affliction is not just an excuse to harass you, it is literally the death of you.

They will, with no valid reason, send you to meet death.

On the battlefield you will be cannon meat.

In the daily life you will be the outburst of those who were lucky enough to be born free of this curse.

From your first breath of air to the last one, you will be afflicted with the anxiety of being killed.

This anxiety will ink itself on every corner of your flesh leaving an indelible mark on your conscience.

Yet you will deeply envy those who worked hard to be considered what can come closer to an human being in their eyes.

When you have nothing to offer the homeland, don’t you dare say a thing.

Or you could pay for it with your life.

In the last moments life has to offer you, maybe there will be someone to save you.

—

The way back home was always the hardest part of the day. Moreover when she was carrying her heavy groceries bag.

She sometimes regretted having chosen to live in a house so far away from the gates. At least she comforted herself by telling herself she was far from the morning commoar.

On her way back home she crossed paths with some children from the neighbourhood.

Despite their miserable lives in these camp they were still running around, smiles plastered on their tiny little faces.

In a rush of inattention, one of the small figures ran into the young woman which caused some of her recent purchases to fall to the ground.

The huge eyes of the child lightened up in a sort of fearful expression. This reaction was indeed normal, out of the camp, such a banality could have caused his death.

These men were heartless and made no difference.

This chilling thought then pushed her to lower herself to his level to pick up her things and once done she replaced her full attention on the boy.

With the most lovely and gentle gaze, she looked at him and slowly began to remove the dust on his clothing.

"Hey there brave little one, are you okay ? Are your knees not scratched ?"

He quietly responded to her with a quick nodding.

"You have to be more careful however…"

She just couldn’t bring herself to finish her sentence, the reality was way too harsh for a little kid.

"I-I’m sorry madam!"

"Don’t worry, it’s no big deal !"

She was so mesmerised by the innocent look this boy was wearing on his face.

In a way, she envied him for being this pure.

But for now, she had the possibility to keep this innocence alive a little longer.

In a quick motion, she reached for the jacket she was carrying on her arm and searched for something in the front pocket.

After a short struggle, she was finally able to pull out an handful of sweet treats.

Once more, the boy eyes lightened up, but this time it was joy.

"Here for you, don’t hesitate to share with your other friends okay?"

Saying the boy literally gasped for air was an euphemism.

If he was happy, so was she.

And as quickly as he could, he ran away shouting a thank you with a large smile.

She waved at him and stood up in order to finally return home.

After ten painful minutes of walking, she had finally arrived home and didn’t wait any longer to get inside.

She unshelved her shoes, put the shopping basket on the nearest chair and folded her coat on the only sofa.

After a short rince under cold water, she lingered in the storage of her purchases.

However it was a quick task, living alone wasn’t requiring a lot in the fridge.

The house she was living in was somewhat primitive and in very poor shape despite all her efforts she was putting to make is look decent.

The clock’s ticking above the door announced seven in the evening. It wasn’t really late but she was still exhausted and was struggling to keep up with the book she was currently reading.

She couldn’t stop yawning and her eyes closed themselves at times.

There, on her armchair she finally gave up and let the tiredness take it away.

However, not even one hour later she was brutally pulled out of her sleep by the sound of banging on the door.

At first she thought dreaming because why would someone walk all the way there to knock at her door? With this thought, she closed her eyes to continue her sleep.

However, the continued insistence of the drumming on the front door clearly meant that it was not a dream.

In a panic she rose up from her seat and looked up with fear at the door.

"You demon, we sure know you are in there! Open the godamn door!"

Throughout the window next to it, she could see two officers dressed up in their uniforms.

This wasn’t good.

It was terrible even.

She looked at her left shoulder and noticed the armband was missing, in her still dizzy mind she frantically searched for it all around the small room.

Even in the intimacy of your home you had to wear it.

Tears were starting to form at the corner of her eyes and she was now struggling to search in the drawers.

After what seemed to be an eternity she finally got her hand on the most important piece of tissue of the house.

However, she was still shaking from the stress the door’s banging gave her.

In a desperate attempt to control her fear she once more looked at the window, hoping to see nothing but the setting sun.

But no, she was struck by the sight of one of the officers who was cheerfully looking into her intimacy.

"You! Open the door immediately !"

She was standing still but had no other choice but to obey.

In the short distance which was separating her from the door, she couldn’t stop but to think about all the possible crimes she could have committed.

Going out without her papers, looking askance at an officer, cutting the road to a privileged... the possibilities were endless.

Yet, she was now in front the door and couldn’t bring herself to stop shaking.

A last breath of air, turn the key into the lock and open the door wide.

All this in one go as to not hesitate any longer.

"You’re lucky we’re not there to kill you. When we ask for the door to be opened, the door must be opened under one minute. You demoniacs creature!"

What? What was happening ?

Without even looking at her, he pushed her away to enter the house.

"Look at her face! She’s terrified!"

The second one did the exact same thing while bursting out laughing.

"Maybe you have something to blame yourself for?"

In a sudden twist, he dangerously approached her with a menacing grin.

Completely distraught by the situation she was now in, she only was able to violently shook her head.

The two who had stormed the house, without an ounce of respect or consideration, searched every corner while putting a nameless mess.

She was stuck in a position where she could either run away through the wide open door and hope not to get caught or docilely close the latter and sit in front of two monsters that could put her under an undeserved punishment.

Her choice was the second option as stupid as it might sound.

Slamming the door and docilely pushing her legs right inside the mouth of the wolf.

"May I serve you something to drink ?"

In an attempt to be nice she was forced to face the harsh reality.

"May you shut it and just sit down, we’re not here to make friends with the dirty rats of your kind."

It wasn’t a question of pride in such a situation, you had to obey and to obey quickly.

"My body is itching, don’t you guys know how to clean ?"

She gulped down her fear and waited for the sentence to be dropped.

"We were sent out today by one of your secret admirers, aren’t you a lucky girl huh?"

For the first time she gathered enough courage to look at them because what were they talking about ?

"This guy paid great money to offer you this, so consider yourself lucky we accepted his request. I can affirm you, if it hadn’t been the case we would have probably sent someone to kill you tonight ."

The men in front of her seemed to have a monologue between them, as if they weren’t talking to someone. They were too detached from reality, how could you humanly talk about killing someone with no second thought?

"He even let you a love letter with his small gesture."

"How pathetic of him."

The second added.

Once again they burst out laughing.

Caught off guard, he tossed at her a small and poorly packaged kraft bag wrapped in a string that seemed to have already been opened.

"I no longer want to stay here, I’m getting out of this rats house."

"Let’s head back to the bar."

And as quickly as they distributed her peace, they left.

She followed them only to close her door in a double turn and shutting the curtains down.

And only then she felt safe again.

While trying to understand what had just occurred, she made her way back to the table where she left the little package.

She was all the more intrigued, confused and concerned about the possible content of the latter.

How could such a light thing be costing a lot of money?

After drying her tears she slowly lingered her finger on the brown paper, feeling every crinkles under her touch.

"A secret admirer huh? What a strange thing, how could you love someone in this endless war ?"

She carefully picked up the piece and went to take a seat on the armchair on which she was previously peacefully sleeping.

With a great refinement she put it on her lap and slowly untied the string to release the letter.

It was a one sided paper yet when she turned it around to read the content, her blood turned cold.

"For my future wife.

May you stay safe with this little present of mine.

Yet if it is not enough, I still will be there, just behind you."

Suddenly her whole body was aching, her head was spinning and was heavily sweating.

It was starting again, this never ending cycle of being watched in the darkness of the shadows.

Suddenly the door she had closed and the curtain she had shut down weren’t enough anymore.

She was being violated in her own home.

Her own privacy wasn’t enough because deep inside she knew he was coming back for her.

She, who believed it was finally over, have just been fooled indeed.

Her nails violently sank into her palm and she folded herself under the difficulty in breathing.

In a desperate effort to keep her sanity, she eagerly threw the card across the room and abruptly stood up from her seat.

Yet the pain was so intense she felt forward on her knees, scratching them on the raw soil’s surface.

And there, on this hard floor, she miserably reached for her heart as to make sure she was still alive.

God only knew how much she wanted it to stop beating at this very moment.

Still, the fury engraved in her body forced her to hastily get up and grab the remaining piece of the so-called "gift".

With nothings close to the gentility she used to open the first one, she tore open the paper and threw it away on the floor.

She couldn’t believe what she was now holding onto her hands.

Between her shaking fingers laid out a bright red armband.

For the second time of the evening, tears started to flow down her cheeks and troubled her vision.

Wobbling between incomprehension and denial, she couldn’t wraps her head around this present.

What was the meaning behind such a thing?

Was it a display of power? A way to tell her he was able to keep an eye on her ?

As she did for the letter, she turned around and, blinded by the rage, threw it on the armchair on which she was previously in peace.

Her thoracic cage rose and fell at high speed; she was hyperventilating.

Part 2 here

[viiper1]

Time travel

how would they react if they traveled back in time accidentally and meet their younger self.

Armin, eren, mikasa, Jean, Connie, zeke

-guys this too me so long to make I was originally gonna add more characters but I was too lazy also this is not proof read so sorry for any mistakes.

Anyway enjoy 💕

Armin Arlert:

Armin was at first super confused about where he is and how he got there and he was even more confused when he figured out that he was in shiganshina,

but his thoughts are quickly distracted when he sees a little blond boy sitting on the floor with his knees to his chest and his head hidden in his knees.

The little boy immediately remind Armin of his younger self. He walks up to him and kneels on one foot in front of him.

“Hey buddy, what’s wrong?” He asks and is surprised when he sees an identical copy of his younger self when the little boy looks up at him.

“…nothing really, just some boys being rude to me.”

Armin couldn’t belive it.

“Er- what’s your name?”

He asks almost immediately.

“Armin. What’s yours?” The little boy asks.

Armin figured out quite quickly what was going on. Somehow for some reason he was back in the past. And in-front of him, was his younger self.

“Is something the matter sir?” The little boy asked him, a bit confused.

“Uhm n-no. My name is…my name is a-alias.” He quickly came up with a name and seeing his younger self he smiled a little at the sight.

He sits beside him.

“It’s nice to meet you.” The young Armin said.

“It’s nice to meet you too, I hope you don’t let those mean boys get to you…in the far future things will be…much different.”

“I know, I don’t. They don’t even know me so everything they say about me is just…wrong.”

Armin smiles

“Yeah, right, don’t let them tell you otherwise.”

The little Armin look at him in a bit of a confused way.

“Erm I mean, it’ll pass…the bullying I mean. Just hold on a little longer. Things will change and you’ll see a lot of places.” He smiles

“Like you’ve always dreamed.”

“Really?!” The little Armin smiles brightly, his eyes sparkle with hope.

Armin nods

“A lot will happen but…just stay strong okay? Eventually everything will get better.”

“Eh…okay” little Armin found the man a bit strange but somehow trust worthy.

“Do you like books?” Little Armin suddenly asked and they proceeded to have quite a long conversation about some topics that Armin used to be really interested in.

After a while the sun was setting.

“It’s getting dark soon, you should go home. It’s dangerous for little boys at night.” Armin said.

Little Armin nodded and got up he was starting to make his way but turned around and thought about how unfortunate it was that they had to end the conversation but an idea crossed his mind.

“Would you like to walk me home?”

Armin was a bit surprised.

“It’s dangerous for little kids to walk home alone right?” Little Armin persisted.

During their long conversation, they had become kind of friends so Armin could not deny his request.

Armin got up and little Armin took his hand as they started to walk home.

On their way home they had a conversation about eren and mikasa, Little Armins two best friends.

And Armins best friends.

Armins heart felt a little heavy at the mention of eren.

A few meters away from little Armins home, Armin stoped.

Little Armin stoped mid sentence when he realized Armin stoped walking.

“What’s wrong? My house is right there.”

“Yes. I know, I have to go now though. You’re a big boy, you can walk alone from here on.”

“Oh…okay. Will I see you again? I really enjoyed our conversation.” He asked.

“…im not sure. Perhaps in the future.” Armin answered.

“Huh?”

“It was very nice meeting you Armin.”

He kneels down to be at eye height with him.

“Armin, be kind to yourself okay? Treat yourself with the same kindness and compassion as you do with your friends and family, it’s okay to be different.” Armin told his younger self as he said one last “goodbye” and left.

Little Armin was a bit confused but valued the mysterious mans advice. Helene walked to his door and his grandpa opened the door.

“Where have you been Armin?” His grandpa asked and Little Armin proceeded to tell him all about the new friend he made.

From a far, Armin had hid to watch, making sure he got to see his grandpa again for one last time, knowing that in his time line his grandpa is long gone.

Little Armin suddenly reminded something strange

‘how did that man know I wanted to see other places before I even told him about it?’

When little Armin walked into his house and his grandpa closed the door, Armin took a deep breath and turned around.

And suddenly he was back in his original timeline.

Armin had no idea why he traveled back or how but the first thing he did was visit erens grave.

Helene wanted to visits his grandpas grave too but There was no grave for his grandpa and even if there was it would’ve been empty.

Armin didn’t know if what he experienced was a ream or not, real or not he was glad it happened.

As he sits next to erens grave he sees something in the distance. Someone.

It looked like a woman with back hair and a pregnant belly.

Armin smiled at the sight of seeing his childhood friend mikasa.

Eren Yeager:

Eren had been busy the last few days while working on his plans and working with zeke. When he found himself in shiganshina and seeing younger eren running around in the distance he figured he accidentally somehow went into paths but when he tried to get back and it wasn’t working he quickly found out that he was in fact, not just in the paths.

While he wasn’t paying attention, little eren accidentally bumped into him.

“Oh, sorry sir, I didn’t see you.” Little eren said and that’s when eren knew for sure that he wasn’t just in paths. He wasn’t sure if he was dreaming or not but he decided while he is here he might as well just watch. He innocently watched from the background as little eren played with mikasa and Armin. He watched as they played hide and seek and when it was little erens turn to look for his friends he stumbled upon eren again.

Eren thinks it’s a dream.

A very very realistic dream.

“Sir have you seen a blonde boy or a dark haired girl my age walk by? Have you seen them anywhere” He asked with a girn.

Eren couldn’t help but frown his eyebrows a little.

“I…I haven’t seen them in quite a while.” He responded without thinking.

“Hm?” Little eren was confused.

“Are you okay sir? What’s wrong with you?”

What WAS wrong with him?

“I’ve…-never mind. I need you to listen to me okay?” He said as he knelt down to be at eye level with his younger self.

“Huh?”

He wished he could tell him to listen to his heart more carefully, to not fear rejection and live his life with more joy but he doesn’t.

„Uh…be careful.“ Eren says.

“Uhm…okay. I’ll go now…bye.”

“Wait.”

Little eren turned around to face the man.

“Yes?”

“They went that way.” Eren said, pointing near the river where little Armin and little mikasa had run to before little eren stoped counting.

Little erens eyes sparkled and he gave Eren a big grin.

“Thanks sir! I appreciate it.”

He said before running off in that direction.

After a few minutes eren decided to take in the view and just walk around town, observing the people, the market, his old town, his old life.

When he decided it was enough he started to make his way to his old house. He still knew the way by heart, how could he ever forget?From afar he saw his mother doing the laundry at the roof top.

“Mom…I’m sorry.” He mumbled quietly under his breath.

“Who are you talking to?”

He suddenly heard a voice behind him.

When he turned around he saw little eren.

“Did you have a fight with your mom too? I had one this morning, it makes me really angry thinking about it!”

Eren was quiet, he didn’t know what to say.

A group of ravens flew above them.

Little eren thought that the man seemed a bit weird but perhaps he was just shy, he seemed upset earlier when he saw him.

“That’s my mom right there, even tho we fight sometimes I still love her. Look.”

He pulled out a beautiful flower. Eren remembered those flowers, they would only bloom at the edge of the walls for some reason. As if they thrived off of the idea of being closer to freedom.

“I plucked this for my mom and I’ll give it to her as an apology.”

It was actually armins idea, he persisted that eren does something as an apology, he kept going on about how if we only say sorry with our words over and over again it’ll seem not genuine and we should also show that we’re sorry not only say that we are.

Eren remembered that day, mikasa had helped him get that flower.

As little eren started at the man he held up the flower to him.

“You should take this. Give it your mom and apologize.”

“…my mother is dead.” Eren simply said

“Oh…” the little boy awkwardly lowered his flower and a feeling of discomfort washed over him as he perked up to his mom again.

“Be nicer to your mother, in the future she might not be there.” Eren said before turning around and leaving.

Little eren frowned.

‘My mom not being there in the future? No way! I won’t let that happen!’

He ran inside and onto the rooftop to his mom.

Eren felt guilty. But he knew it was for the best.

As eren was walking through the alleyways of shiganshina he suddenly found himself back in his timeline. With all the papers and maps in front of him, back to planing.

He convinced himself that he just fell asleep and continued on as nothing happened.

Mikasa Ackerman:

It had been a quite relaxed day for mikasa, well considering what she had been through a few years before, any day would be a „relaxed“ day compared to her old life.

Suddenly mikasa was somewhere else.

She found herself standing in the middle of shiganshina…with the walls still standing.

She was confused at first as she walked along the city alleys and streets.

After a while of walking she realized she was unintentionally walking towards her old home. Her very first home. Where she had lived with her mother and her father.

Mikasa was about to turn around and walk a different way when she suddenly spottet her mother bringing out the trash.

Was she dreaming? Could that be it?

As She watched from afar, a little girl suddenly came out from the house with a little paper coat in her hand. She made her way to the river close to their house.

Mikasa followed.

As mikasa was catching up to the little girl taht strangely looked identical to herself but younger, the little girl turned around and spottet her.

She weaved at her and mikasa weaved back.

„Hello, little girl. Can I ask what your name is?“

The little girl was a bit suspicious at first because she was thought not to talk to strangers but the women infront of her looked very pretty and trust worthy.

“My name is mikasa. You have very nice hair ma’am.”

“…thank you, you too.”

Mikasa sat next to little mikasa and watched her carefully put the boat into the river and they both watched it swing with the rivers stream.

It was peaceful, the birds were chirping and the sun was shining.

“Do you know how to make a flower crown? My mom taught me yesterday. I can teach you if you like?” Little mikasa said politely.

“…yeah I know how to. Would you like me to make you one?” Mikasa told the little girl.

“Sure, and I’ll make you one so we’re even!”

As they sat in the grass and made their flower crowns for one another, they didn’t speak much, whenever little mikasa asked a question mikasa would answer directly and not engage in further conversation, the same way around too.

Mikasa was just enjoying the moment, still thinking she was in a dream. When the sun was starting to set mikasa walked little mikasa home and at the door she said goodbye.

As mikasa was making her way back to the city she suddenly returned to her original time. She found herself in her home. And she never mentioned her “dream” to anyone else.

Jean Kirstein:

Jean was making his way out of their barracks, on his way to another meeting, he didn’t even remember what this meeting was for, there had been quiet a lot lately, but considering how we now had Marleyans and other foreign nations on our island it wasn’t ridiculous to hold such meetings.

Him and the rest of the survey corps entered the building, they were waiting in the corridor that lead to various rooms, including the meeting room. As They waited in the hallway untill it was time to go inside, Connie and Sasha were action like loud idiots. again. No actually they WERE loud idiots.

As Jean was about to turn to them to tell them to shut up he suddenly found himself in the middle of a thriving city.

People were buying vegetables and fruits on the market, men were loading heavy boxes into ships, little kids were playing in under the warm sun.

What…just happened? Wasn’t he just in the hallway…? Was he dreaming? But When did he fall asleep?

A little ball lightly hits his leg, he take the ball and looks at it, it seems a bit familiar but he can’t figure out from where he recognizes it.

“Hey can you pass me that.”

Jean hears a voice say from afar.

He looks up and sees a little boy weaving his hand. The little guy shared similar traits with him.

“Jeanboy come up for dinner in 10 minutes okay?” A woman from a window above them says.

They both look up and Jean can’t believe his eyes. Wasn’t that his mother?

“Ugh I know, You don’t have to remind me mom.”

The little boy answers with an annoyed expression.

No way. Could it be? He must be dreaming.

The little Jean walks over to him.

“Hey what’s wrong with you? That’s my ball…you’re not thinking of keeping it are you?!”

The little boy says with an angry expression.

Jean didn’t know what to do, or say.

“Er no…I wasn’t.” He says. “You uh, are you playing alone?” He asks. He didn’t know what he asked that.

“Huh?! So what if I am? Do you have a problem with that.” The little Jean replies, he seems to be embarrassed.

Jean didn’t have many friends growing up, as he looked at himself he kinda felt…pity.

“Do you wanna play with me?” Jean offers generously. He had a slight smile on his face.

“What the…? No! Im not gonna play with some old stranger. You’re probably a creep!”

Jeans eyebrows furrowed.

“You know you should really have more respect for the elder.”

“…can I have my ball back now please?”

The little Jean said, now a little more politely.

Jean sighed. He handed him the ball, he looked back up to the window where his mom was a few seconds ago.

“You…you can join me I guess.”

The little Jean said. He didn’t know why but he felt a sense of safety when he was with the older man.

“Come with me.” Little Jean said.

He looked to be around 8 or 9 years old or so.

Nostalgia pourd all over Jean as he was walking with his younger self. He remembered these times. Tho they might not have been ideal, they were peaceful. Back when everyone was unaware of the true dangers.

“Hey hurry” little Jean called and Jean walked a little faster to catch up.

In that moment a group of military police members walked by, they were laughing obnoxiously and joking around.

Little Jean did not seem to notice tho.

“Hey what’s your name by the way?”

Little Jean said.

“Wha- oh erm…je- jeas…on. Jeason.”

“My name is Jean. Nice to meet you jeason. I would have you know that I am pro athlete so prepare yourself to lose miserably.”

“Uh what?”

“Im very good at what I do. My mom sa- I mean I’ve been told that Im really good.” Little Jean said confidently as he positioned himself a few feet away from Jean.

Jean remembers all the praises he got from his mother when he was growing up, now he’ll get to see if he really was as good as she made it out to be.

“Alright, give it all you got kiddo.”

Jean prepared himself. He did remember himself to be quite good back then.

The ball was thrown. The ball flew. Aaand…Jean was disappointed.

The ball was incredibly easy to catch and the throw was terrible. Wow. His mother was an amazing liar.

“That was beginners luck!”

Little jean said. “Let me try again.”

Jean passed the ball to him and little Jean prepared for his next throw.

Aaaaand-

Nothing.

“Eh-…I- I let you win. How about you throw now, old man, I’ll show you what really made of!” Little Jean was radiating confidence and strength.

“Alright, get ready, champ.”

Jean threw the ball aaaaaand…yeah no still nothing.

How did he not catch that one? He even threw it lightly on purpose.

The next few rounds consisted of little Jean trying his hardest to land a point and Jean trying his best to make it easy from the little boy and to let him win.

“One more time. I almost had it!” Little Jean said determined.

“That’s enough for today, your mom’s waiting for you, little man.” Jean said as he walked up to him.

“Huh no it’s fine she can wait a little.”

Jean put a firm grip on little jeans shoulder.

“Go home.” He said, strict expression formed on his face as if he was telling his own kid what to do.

Little Jean was a little intimidated and took his ball. “Whatever.”

Jean walked little Jean, who was very grumpy, home.

In front of the door Jean stoped him.

“Be a little nicer to your mom will you?”

“Huhhh?!” Before little Jean could say anything, Jean walked away.

As he was walking through the alleyways of his city he still had that strong feeling of nostalgia, as he was turning a corner he suddenly fielt a hand on his shoulder, when he turned around he was back in that hallway.

“Come on man, stop dreaming, it’s staring.”

Connie.

He was…back. Was he ever gone?

A daydream…right. It must’ve been a daydream. Jean didn’t have time to think about it. With everything that was going on and that was about to happen there are much more important things to worry about.

No time to think. The others were all entering the meeting room already.

Better not make them wait…

Connie Springer:

It was late at night. Commander Levi had called the Levi squad for a quick meeting. He wasn’t listening. Even if he tried to he didn’t understand a lot, if it’s really that important he’d just ask Armin later to sum it up for him.

In a blink of an eye he was…standing in the middle of a village?

…not just any village, it was ragako, it was his village!

Yet the buildings seemed to be completely fine and there were people waking around, some of wich he faintly remembered.

What’s going on…? Was he dreaming or something. Maybe he fell asleep while that boring meeting.

A little boy bumped into him and landed on his butt.

“Are you oka…y“ Connie was socked. The guy looked…like him. Could it be…? No. There’s no way.

“Ouch” the little boy replied as he got up.

“Hey Have you seen two little kids sneaking around here somewhere? We’re playing hide and seek.” The little boy asked.

“Uh…no sorry.” Connie replied, he was still a bit confused as to how he got here in the first place.

“Are you okay? Are you lost? I haven’t seen you here often.” The little boy asked.

“I uhm…yeah. I think so.”

“Hmm…okay let’s make a deal! If you help me find my siblings I’ll help you get back!” The little boy smiled brightly.

Connie doubted that the little guy could help Connie get back to where he originally was but he went along with it anyway.

“Alright. What do they look like.”

“My Little Sisters has blonde hair and bangs, her name is sunny and my little brother has blonde hair and green eyes like mine. His name is Martin. They’re probably hiding together so it shouldn’t be that hard to find them but I’ve been looking for them for like half an hours now.”

Connie was shocked at the names and the memories they brought up.

“What…”

“What?” Little Connie replied in confusion.

“What’s your name?” Connie had a worried expression on his face.

“Connie. What’s yours?.”

No. Fucking. way.

It must be some sort of dream or…what if…he went back in time or some crazy shit.

“You’re not gonna believe this but. My name’s connie.”

“Woah no way.” Little Connie was surprised.

Suddenly a smile creeped up Connie’s lips. Now neat.

He got down on a knee and put his hands on little Connie’s shoulder.

“Connie. Im you. From the future.”

“Reallyyy?!” Little Connie was shocked. He wondered Was this really true?

“Wait so you must know where sunny and Martin are hiding! If I find them I’ll win the game and they owe me some pretty Pennie’s!” His eyes sparkled at the thought of winning.

“Eh…about that. I don’t really remember.”

“What?! Oh man…Okay okay. Tell me something about my future.” Little Connie seemed exited.

“…you meet some really great people.”

“Is that…all?”

“Don’t be so ungrateful! Let’s go find Martin and sunny.” Connie got up and him and little Connie looked around the village for a few moments.

Little Connie asked a lot of questions about his future life and future friends.

After about 10 minutes of searing the sun was setting. Pretty pink red and purple Colors intertwined into each other.

“Connie go home. You’re not gonna fine them. They probably went home already.” Connie spoke. Little Connie was still eager.

“No noo, we almost have them, I can feel their presence near!”

“Connie you lost. Let’s go.”

“Awe man.” Little Connie was disappointed as they walked home together.

At the front of their door, little Connie knocks on the door.

His mom comes out, a worried expression planted on her face. Sunny and Martin come out from behind her, giggling.

“Connie! Where have you been? Have you seen the time, I was worried!” His mom scolded him.

“I was looking for Martin and sunny.” Connie replied.

“You lost the game connie.” Sunny said with a smile.

“No, you cheated! I didn’t know you went home!” Little Connie defended himself.

At the sight of his family Connie felt uneasy.

Oh man… he felt his eyes tear up.

“Who’s that Connie?” His mom asked.

…

“I uhm…I walked him home. It’s dangerous for little kids at this hour.” Connie said looking away.

“Thank you a lot! Would you care to stay for a cup or tee?” His mom replied, a kind smile painted over her face.

“I uhm…I have to go. Im sorry mo- ma’am”

Connie quickly left before anyone could say anything.

Around the corner Connie collapsed on his knees. He missed his family. So, so fucking much.

Was this some sick and twisted joke?

How cruel. How unfair.

Suddenly he felt a hand on his shoulder. Some part of him hoped to turn around and see his mother again but when he turned around he saw Jean.

“The meetings over. We can go to bed now. You okay?”

Perhaps he had lost most of his family, but at least he still had jean and Sasha.

“Yeah I’m fine. Let’s go to bed. I am so tiered.”

Perhaps it was all just a dream? He’ll never know. And he tried his best to forget about it and think of the things ahead.

Zeke Yeager:

Zeke was confused at first and also thought he might be in the paths by accident but he noticed some stares as he walked through Marley, he thought he might be imagining it so he didn’t think about it much but as he was walking he noticed a little blonde boy walking with his head down.

He looked so sad, it reminded zeke of himself. So much so that he stoped walking. The little boy accidentally walked into zeke and he looked up at him and apologized politely.

When he looked up zeke was in shock.

The little boy looked exactly like him, well…when he was younger he looked exactly like him.

The little boy found the man’s reaction a bit odd but he had a longs exhausting day so he just kept walking again.

„you can...see me?” zeke said.

He wasn’t sure why he said it,

perhaps it was because he was confused on why the little boy could see him and talk to him.

The little boy turned around with a slight confused expression.

“Uhm…yes?”

At this moment zeke tried to get out of the paths but he realized he couldn’t, because he wasn’t in the paths.

He figured that this was probably a dream.

And while he was here, he might as well enjoy the little break from his bussy life.

“Would you…uh, would you like to play catch?”

Zeke asked the little boy.

A sparkle lit up in the little boys eyes but he was a bit hesitant.

“I-…I don’t know, it’ll get late and I should get home-…and…”

“Come on, a little catch won’t hurt, will it?”

Zeke said.

“Okay.” The little boy said with a slight smile. He seems excited.

They went to a place that had a bit bigger space, and less people in the way.

As they started to throw that ball to each other zeke asked the boy

“What’s your name?”

“Im zeke, what’s yours?”

The ball fell to the floor, zeke was surprised. Something in him kind of knew that the little boy was him but he played it off as impossible. Now he knew for sure. He didn’t know why he was so surprised. It was a dream after all, right?

In dreams, the weirdest things are possible.

“Uhm…well this might be hard for you to believe but, my names zeke too.”

He said as he picked up the ball and threw it.

“What a coincidence.” Little zeke said with a smile on his face. It seems that he was just happy to be playing catch, even if the man he was playing with was a bit strange.

They played for almost two hours, throwing that ball over and over again, coming up with new rules and methods after it was getting too easy or too boring. They had a lot of fun and by the time they were done, the sun was already setting.

Zeke had caught the ball one last time. Little zeke was confused as to why he stoped throwing.

“It’s getting late. I don’t want to get you in trouble.”

“Hm? Oh…okay” he looked a bit hesitant, like he was disappointed to leave.

“Will we get to play again?” Little zeke asked.

“Hm?” The question caught Zeke by surprise

“Oh…I’m not sure we will, perhaps, maybe.”

“Oh…okay, I hope we do, you’re very good at playing catch.”

“…go home, your parents might worry.”

“Okay, bye sir!” Little zeke weaved with a big smile as we turned around, but he didn’t walk, he stoped and turned around again.

“Thank you for playing catch with me sir.”

That was the last thing little zeke said before he made his way home.

For a dream, this seemed so realistic, he thought. As zeke started to walk, he suddenly found himself back in the head quarters with the worrier unit.

Did he fall asleep? No…he doesn’t feel restet enough and…he could still feel the sensations of the ball on his hand. He took a good look at his hand as he remembered the feeling when suddenly picke came in the room.

“Hey, we’re waiting for you outside.”

“Right. Im coming.”

What a strange day.

Thank you for reading:)

@briefpeachdinosaur

[chunkyhunkyduck]

Tina saw them—Tammy and Zeke—pressed close together on the dance floor, body against body, chest against chest. Tammy relished sliding her fingers through his messy curls, her long pink nails trailing along his neck. Tina caught the tiny shiver that ran through Zekes body. It made her want to puke.

“I don’t feel like dancing anymore,” Tina murmured, gently removing Jimmy Jr.'s hands from around her waist.

“Wait, what?” Jimmy called after her, confused, as she turned and walked quickly toward the gym doors.

Outside, the night air was cool against her face. Leaves and dust twirled in the breeze, caught in their own silent waltz. Tina looked up at the moon, the light reflecting off her glasses. Her mind brought her back to the way Zeke had held Tammy. His arms wrapped so tightly around her body, holding her close, like he was protecting something important. But that’s what she was, wasn’t she? important.

Important to Zeke.

Tina slowly wrapped her arms around herself and lowered her head, hoping the tears welling in her eyes wouldn’t spill over.

[facethemusic505]

Did I finish Invisible Boys or did Invisible Boys finish me...

(100% recommend it especially if you're looking for Joseph Zada content before he plays Haymitch in SOTR)

[zeketarion]

tw: mention of physical abuse

it was always talked about; how a mother loved her child. unconditionally, from the time she learns she's pregnant from the time her child is finally brought into the world.

she stares at them with adoration.

but dina never looked at zeke that way, not that he can remember at least. she always looked so sorrowful, like she pitied him, or herself. he couldn't really tell. she was always so submissive, gentle but passive and almost a pushover. letting grisha do all the talking, letting him rule the house.

like a tyrant.

grisha was never physically abusive but when his anger roared zeke always cowered, often looking to his mother for support, for protection but she never delivered. maybe she was afraid too, or maybe she stood back believing his approach was the only approach.

though, zeke never blamed her for the pain that was inflicted upon him. she was just as stuck as he was. despite that, he can't help the resentment that still lingers in his heart. the feelings of anger, that she didn't step in, that she rarely stepped in. that she sat back and watched.

it was always talked about; how a mother loved her child. unconditionally, from the time she learns she's pregnant from the time her child is finally brought into the world.

zeke still wonders if it's true.

[cal781]

Levi Snippet #26 : First Night In The Woods

Y/N,Levi and Zeke , were outside the carriage and now they were in the Forest of Giant Trees. While Y/N and Levi were on a horse, Zeke was standing on the ground looking at the place with a frown. Zeke looked at the trees with his jaw dropped. “this is my hotel?” “got a problem with that? you bearded piece of shit.. captain levi thought it’d be the perfect place for you”. y/n’s face showed very little emotion , zeke wasn’t able figure out how much the short woman hated him.

“well it might be loads of fun with ODM gear” telling the lieutenant. zeke then looks over to his right shoulder, calling out to Levi “Hey, Captain Levi. Think I could show Gabi and Falco this natural wonder?” Levi just scoffs, eyeing him down again .“Tch.. whether they see the sights or not depends on you”. knowing it might take a bit of time to talk to eren, zeke decided to entertain himself even if it was brief “careful with that tongue of yours princess .. you won’t catch a husband with that attitude of yours”. y/n never spared him so much as a glance ‘silent treatment huh.. what a feisty woman’ smiling at the thought she might actually be interesting . “Oi”.. it wasn’t y/n who called out to him it was actually levi . “she’s married”. before the bearded ape could push further levi’s pissed off face clearly told him ‘fuck around and find out ‘. putting two and two together he figured it out quickly that both the captain and his lieutenant were married .the first night they were around zeke in the woods , y/n didn’t sleep . her insomnia that she thought vanished came back . the screams of her comrades echoing in her head back in shiganshina. “can’t sleep?” making the woman flinch at first but nodded “forgive me for waking you , yeah about 4 years ago before that “shitty brat” betrayed us” . he nodded in understanding “you can go back to sleep i’ll be fine “ showing a smile but her husband knew that it was a fake one . muttering a “tch” the strong raven haired husband pulled his wife against his chest on their cot . “L-Levi!” showing a surprised look at him , levi kissed y/n’s forehead tenderly showing his wife a soft smile only for her . “you don’t need to pretend .. not with me .. you can let it all out .. you already know i’ll always be there for you “. with her mask that she built up cracked she quietly sobbed while her husband stroked her back to soothe his wife . “I miss erwin levi .. bushy brows really trusted you i think even more than me .. i didn’t care just as long he never stole you away from me “. it was a mixture of playfully teasing him and a hint of jealousy , he frowned at that last sentence . growling at that hint of insecurity levi smashed his lips against y/n’s . this kiss was different it was a possessive kiss , almost like he was trying to consume her .. to prove a point to his beloved. once he had let go both were panting with flushed faces . “dumbass , you’d have to be fucking stupid to think i’d leave you for anybody .. i told you when we started this that you belong to me and i belong to you “. it didn’t take much for him to harden in his boxers while he was marking her everywhere y/n showed skin . feeling his bulge against her cunt made y/n soaking wet . “Levi .. please i need you .. use me .. mess me up “ stunned at her bold words made him lightly blush . “fuck y/n , you’re driving me insane .. i’m going to take what’s mine and don’t think i forgot that you called me “captain” earlier . hostage or no hostage of that shitty ape , i won’t allow you to call me that, you’re the only one from our past that i want you to call me “ levi “ and only you my love .. i won’t hold back tonight “ . “then don’t .. only you’re allowed to have me “.. smirking at her he whispered seductively into his wife’s ear “you’re damn right I am

[haewchh]

Late Nights & Heartbreak (teaser)│L.A

Pairing: Detective!Levi x Burlesquedancer!Reader

Summary: when chief erwin smith finds a lead for the infamous mafia in the form of a burlesque dancer, he sends his coldest detective to investigate.

Tags: detective/mafia au, 1950's au, sexual tension, eventual smut, mentions of sex work, smoking, drinking, violence, mentions of death/murder, reader uses the fake name 'Vivienne', non binary hange

Word count: 2741 (teaser)

A/n: HEAR ME OUT! i know this an oddly specific trope but i need to share it with the world. Here is a teaser for a new fic i have in the making. Gonna be the first piece of writing on this account, i'm so excited! This might be cross posted on AO3, i haven't decided yet. Please ignore spelling and grammar mistakes, i am so awful. Based on the song 'Late Nights & Heartbreak' by Hannah Williams <3

❈────────•✦•────────❈

♬⋆.˚ Why do I find it so hard to love you,

When i know in my heart that i want to? ♬⋆.˚

❈────────•✦•────────❈

New York. 1956. The city that never sleeps and never lets you forget it. Yellow taxis prowled the avenues, the beaming headlights cutting through the thick fog. The air stunk of wet concrete, cheap cigarettes and women's perfume. Couples stumbled the streets in their evening wear after hours of drinking the night away. Somewhere in the distance music wept, bleeding through the brick and grime.

“Hurry up, four eyes.” Levi spat. The collar of his coat was turned up, guarding his pale face from the late night winds.

“Just a second,” Hange mumbled, a cigarette planted between their lips. “This damn wind.” They shuffled around in the pocket of their tan trench before pulling out a metal cladded lighter.

“Hush levi, not like we’re on company time.” Erwin said with amusement.

“Tch.” Levi found himself leaning on the brick wall situated behind them, impatiently waiting for Hange’s cigarette to burn away. 

Of course, they were all familiar with this part of the city. The night life was truly a fever dream. Jazz, gin and too many bad decisions in too little time. In the dingy basement clubs, cards were being dealt, hips swayed to the trumpets and every stranger had a more interesting story than the one before. It was chaos wrapped in velvet. If you weren't careful, it would chew you up and spit you out again.

Levi just possibly couldn't understand why they were here, especially off the clock. ‘La Maison Rouge’ -a burlesque club buried under a pawn shop on 52nd. No sign, no welcome. Just a red bulb above a steel door and a doorman with bulging biceps.

“Please remind me why we’re here.” Levi muttered, his voice sharp with irritation. His dark silver eyes burned into the back of the blonde's head.

“I need you to meet a friend of mine.” Erwin replied. His tone is calm and unreadable as he stood with his back still turned.

“Oooo, so mysterious.” Hange drawled playfully, a crooked smile tugging on their lips as they gently tapped the end of their cigarette. The ash scattered lazily on the pavement, drifting beside their worn out boots.

Levi’s breath came out as a mist as he shoved his cold hands deeper into the pockets of his coat. “And what makes this friend worth dragging us out at this hour?” He spat.

“She agreed to help us with the yeagers,” Erwin said, finally turning his head ever so slightly. He paused for a moment, taking a gentle gander at his surroundings. “I believe she has some crucial intel, could make or break us.”

She? Levi’s mind caught on like a snag in a thread.

Before he could ask, Hange cut in with a teasing whistle, the sound echoing off the brick walls. “Erwin’s got a lady friend,” they said with a grin, stomping out their cigarette under the heel of their boot.

Hange stepped into the empty street, their figure briefly illuminated by the flickering streetlights above. They raised a hand in a silent signal, all business now. Erwin followed close behind, his long strides deliberate. Levi hesitated only a second before trailing after them, boots silent against the damp pavement.

Erwin greeted the doorman with a courteous nod, his voice calm and composed. The man stationed at the entrance was built like a wall. Broad shoulders, clean shaven, and dressed in an immaculate black suit. He didn’t speak, only returned the gesture with a solemn nod before stepping aside.

Without a word, the trio of detectives slipped past him and into the belly of the building. They were met by a narrow staircase that plunged downward, a dim light casting long shadows on the steep steps. They walked single file, their footsteps echoing faintly until they reached the bottom.

The room opened before them in a wash of deep crimson. It was all low lights and high sins, soaked in a moody glow. Velvet curtains lined the walls, all rich and heavy. Every table was dressed in flickering candlelight, casting golden halos across unknown faces.

Levi’s eyes swept the room with sharp precision. The bar was the first thing that truly caught his attention. It stretched along the far wall, shelves rising high and crowded with what looked like a hundred bottles of every booze imaginable.

Directly across stood a small stage, quietly commanding the room. Its edge was wrapped in a lush red fabric that glimmered under soft lights, a visual promise of a show not yet begun. In the ceiling above, bulbs hung like stars, illuminating the space with a tender glow. In the far corner, half-buried in shadow, a live band played slow, dirty jazz. 

Levi and Hange followed closely behind Erwin, weaving through the dimly lit crowd. They stopped at an empty table directly opposite the stage, the best view in the house. Without a word they slipped off their coats, draping them over the backs of the polished mahogany chairs.

Settling into their seats, they each took a quiet moment to adjust to the atmosphere. Levi leaned back slightly with his shoulders tense, his sharp eyes flicking across the room. Beside him, Hange looked around like a child seeing the world for the first time.They practically buzzed with excitement, taking everything in. In contrast, Erwin was unbothered. His gaze was steady and focused- he had definitely been here before.

Levi didn’t know how to feel. Sure, he’d been in plenty of bars. But this? This was something else entirely. There was elegance here, a kind of quiet danger. It was breathtaking in its own way.

A young man approached the table, slipping between guests with ease. He was dressed immaculately, a tailored vest, bow tie and a crisp white shirt. A towel draped over his forearm, in the opposite hand, a slim notepad and pen.

“Good evening,” he said with practiced grace, voice smooth but polite. “What can I get for you this evening?” He flicked the pen into position with a fluid motion, ready to take note.

“Two double whiskeys on the rocks and one house red,” Erwin said without pause, his tone clear and authoritative. The waiter nodded, jotting down the order.

“I’ll be back with that in just a moment,” he replied, already turning away from the table.

“Thank you,” Erwin added with a small smile, more habit than warmth.

As the waiter disappeared into the shadows, Levi let his gaze wander around the crowd. To the left was a pair of lovers leaning close, their whispers flirtatious. A few tables over, a group of men laughed loudly over a game of cards, their ties loosened and cigarettes burning low. Tucked in the corner, the elders swayed gently in their seats, eyes half-closed, letting the music carry them away.

“So,” Hange’s voice broke the silence, dragging Levi from his thoughts once again. They leaned forward with elbows on the table. Their chin resting on their hands as their eyes glinted with mischief. Before Levi could speak, the waiter returned. A silver tray balanced on his hand. One by one, he placed the drinks before them with care, the glasses clinking softly against the tabletop. All three mumbled their thanks, each reaching for their choice of drink.

“When are we meeting your lady friend, Erwin?” Hange asked, wiggling their eyebrows playfully.

Erwin brought the glass to his lips, eyes still unreadable. “You’ll see,” he replied, voice smooth as the liquor he swallowed.

Levi narrowed his eyes slightly, the burn of the whiskey on his tongue grounding him. Why was Erwin being so cryptic? he thought. Too many loose ends. Too many questions left unanswered. And Levi hated questions without answers.

All of a sudden, the thick red curtain began to rise. A hush fell over the crowd, followed by a growing wave of applause. It was light at first, then swelling into eager claps and scattered whistles. The golden stage lights warmed the air as anticipation bounced around the room.

On the far left of the stage, a slim blonde woman stepped forward, her figure catching the light like a diamond in the dark. She stood tall and poised in front of an old-fashioned microphone. Her dress dropped to the floor in length and was absolutely elegant. It was stitched in shimmering silver sequins that caught every glimmer of light. It clung to her curves with practiced precision, every movement sending ripples through the glittering fabric.

“I hope we’ve all had a wonderful night here at La Maison Rouge,” she cooded, her voice rich with a thick French accent. The audience clapped again as her lips curled into a knowing smile.

“I’m Marie,” she continued, her voice purring into the mic. “Not only will I be your host for tonight, but also the voice supporting our incredible band.”

A warm applause directed toward the shadowy corner of the stage, where the live jazz band sat quietly. A saxophone let out a playful trill, teasing the crowd. The audience responded with more clapping, showing appreciation.

“With no more time wasted,” Marie said, her tone dropping slightly into something more theatrical, her hand rising in a graceful sway, “I would like to introduce the one and only…” She paused, letting the silence stretch, expertly winding in the crowd.

“…Vivienne DeVille!” she finally announced.

The room exploded. Applause turned into chaos, shouts, catcalls, men pounding their fists against the tabletops with wild grins. The crowd surged with energy, a tidal wave of excitement crashing against the stage. A few women whistled too, laughter tangled together in the noise.

Levi blinked in surprise. He’d seen his fair share of burlesque crowds before. A bit tipsy, flirty, sometimes bold, but this? This was unrestrained. Electric. A reverence and hunger rolled into one. He glanced around the room, noting how the energy shifted. It was as if everyone was leaning forward in their seats, waiting for something unforgettable.

Guess he was about to find out.

The stage lights narrowed into a single spotlight. For a moment the stage stood still, just a mystery in the shadows.

And then she appeared.

Vivienne DeVille stepped through the velvet curtain with a sway in her hips that seemed to command gravity itself. She moved like honey, so slow and deliberate. Her crimson gown shimmered beneath the lights, each gem catching the glow like fireflies in the dark. Levi’s eyes graced her body. There was a slit high at the thigh to reveal a glimpse of stockings and garters underneath.

A matching red feather fan rested delicately in her gloved hands, its soft plumes fluttering as she glided toward the center of the stage. She paused there, one hand on her hip, the other letting the fan trail down her leg with a light tease. Her lips curled into a devilish smile.

She was stunning. And she knew it.

“Well, well…” she purred into the microphone, her voice velvet-smooth with a touch of grit, like good bourbon. “Looks like we’ve got a full house tonight…”

The crowd answered with hoots and hollers, drinks raised high and even some men shouting her name like it was a prayer. She laughed, a low musical sound that floated around the room like smoke.

“You boys behave, now,” she teased, trailing her gloved finger along her collarbone. “Or don’t. I like a little trouble.”

The band picked up a slow, sultry tune with a wicked undertone. She began to move in time with the rhythm. A graceful turn of her heel. A slight shimmy of her shoulders. She twirled the feather fan once, letting it trail behind her.

From the back of the room, Levi couldn’t take his eyes off her.

There was a craft to what she was doing. A choreography,not just of movement, but of attention. Vivienne wasn’t just performing.

She was possessing the room.

Levi felt the pull like a rope around his neck. He was trained not to trust pretty distractions. But there was something about her. Something dangerous beneath the sparkle and glamour.

This wasn’t just a show.

This was a message.

And Levi intended to find out exactly what it meant.

The band slid seamlessly into a slow tune. It was rich with piano, a slight sigh of saxophone and complimented with a seductive play of bass. Marie started to sing, her voice matching perfecting with the rhythm. She didn't belt or blast, her voice was low and velvety. Walking forward, Vivienne started to tease the audience with the bare skin of her thigh.

At the table, Hange leaned forward, eyes wide with wonder. “Holy shit!” They shouted with a hushed tone. “Shes a goddess!” They were completely mesmerised.

Levi didn't say anything. He just stared.

Not like the other men shouting pet names toward the stage, trying to catch a glance from under her lashes. His gaze was sharp, analytical, and curious. He couldn't deny that something about her tugged at the air in his lungs.

She moved with the music, teasing as the feathers trailed behind her. Her eyes swept across the room. For a single second her gaze locked onto Levi. Just for a breath. Barely a moment. But he felt it. The rest of the crowd didn't notice, they were too drunk on her body. But Levi definitely caught it. A spark of something more behind that siren smile.

“That’s her.” Erwin said plainly, just loud enough for the others to hear. 

Hange's eyes flickered to him in surprise, “That’s your contact?!” They shouted as if they couldn’t believe it.

“Vivienne,” he murmured. “The woman that’s going to help us take down the yeagers.”

Vivienne turned her back to the audience slowly, her hands traveling up her sides and over her shoulders. She reached the clasp at the back of her gown and paused, just long enough to build a heartbeat of silence in the room.

The gown slipped down her arms with a whisper of satin on skin. It didn't fall. No, it glided down her body inch by inch. First her shoulders, then the graceful curve of her back. The sequins caught every glimmer as they dropped, glittering like falling stardust. Gasps and whistles scattered through the crowd.

Underneath, she wore black lace lingerie. It was delicate, vintage, and painfully devastating. The corset hugged her waist, it's intricate stitching shimmering faintly under the lights. Stockings clung to her legs, held in place by velvet garters that peeked out with every step she took. Her gloves were the last to go, peeled off finger by finger.

She faced the crowd again, lips curled into a cheeky smile. One arm slid up behind her head as she dipped her hip and turned in a slow circle, giving everyone a taste. Every flick of her wrist, every tilt of her head, every bend of her knee was poetry written in flesh. And as she reached the final chords of the song, standing center stage in nothing but black lace, she struck one last pose. A single hand on her hip, her chest rising with one slow breath.

Then came the eruption. Applause thundered with whistles and hollers.

Chairs started scraping the floors as people rose to their feet, desperate to show their admiration. Vivienne gleamed as she bowed with elegance, letting one arm sweep low while the other held the fan close to her chest.

But as she straightened, her gaze drifted again.

Past the crowd. Past the chaos.

To them.

To him.

Levi.

It wasn’t flirtatious this time. It wasn’t a tease. It was something colder. Sharper. Intentional..

Then, just as quickly, it was gone.

She turned, letting the fan trail one last time along her leg, and walked offstage with the same grace she’d entered with. The curtain didn’t just close behind her. It swallowed her. One moment she was there, the next- gone. 

The band played on, shifting into a lively tune to stir the drunk and dazed. But at the detectives’ table, the spell hadn’t broken. Hange let out a breath that was half-laugh, half-exhale. “Jesus. I think I forgot how to blink.”

Erwin raised his glass, the ice now nearly melted. “She makes an impression.”

Levi didn’t answer. His fingers drummed silently on the table, his jaw tight, his eyes still fixed on the velvet curtain like it might open again.

He didn’t know what game Vivienne DeVille was playing.

But she had just become the most dangerous piece on the board.

❈────────•✦•────────❈

[anlian-aishang]

SNK Men - Falling Out of Love with Them - Levi, Erwin, Eren, Armin, Jean, Reiner, Zeke

tags: snk x reader, sfw, angst, food mention, alcohol mention, smoking mention, break-ups, modern AU, gn!reader

Levi:

You could tell from the second you laid eyes on him: a man of few words, an introvert, full of thoughts but nothing to say. Silent heart held secrets. Crossed arms guarded them. You longed to unlock his cage, to set him free, and shoulder those burdens with him. That desire gave you the courage to approach him. Your kindness kept him there.

Far later, living together, closets and cabinets filled, routines intertwined, such milestones used to give you confidence in your relationship. Over time, though, they became looming doubts. Levi never talked about his day, about himself. When you asked him, he provided mere slivers. When you pressed on, he narrowed his gaze in a way that shut you up. He was the foil to your fairy tales: never professing his love, never a heartfelt love letter just cause. In fact, no confessions of love at all. 

Sharing a bed with you, but not his past. Levi had met your friends, your family, but you couldn’t name either of his parents. Where did he grow up? What brought him to this city? Why does he love you? Does he love you? 

Years gone by, you started to question whether you knew that much more than you did that first night. Tears in your eyes as you surveyed him from across the living room: hand on his cheek, attention solely on his reading. He looked just as mysterious as he did back then. All that time, those efforts, your affection: wasted. 

A man of no regrets gained one in your departure: he should have told you everything. The only one he had ever lived with, the only one he had slept with, he thought it was obvious - how special you were to him. The pain of recounting his past was nothing compared to that of losing you. The vulnerability required to open up was much less than that of reconciling your break-up. In his eyes, he had been an open book. In his eyes, there was no reason to try that again.

Erwin:

Out of your league. Top of the food chain. Tall and blonde, smart and beautiful, he had the eyes of everyone on him. When you learned that his were on you, god, it was a feeling you wished you could bottle forever. If you could have, maybe that would have prevented you from falling out of love. 

From the first day you met him throughout the course of your relationship, you never forgot how appreciated he was, even if you wanted to. It was what drew you to him, now what separated you from him. Every morning, he left for work far before you woke up. Every evening, he was home too late for dinner. Weekends were wonderful - lazy cuddles, fancy brunches, movies and museums - but they were all you had: a mere 72 hours of his week. Work was his life, his wife. You were just his part-time, his side hustle. 

Over time, so constantly reminded of his importance, you felt comparatively, increasingly worthless. How many meals alone? The housework of two allotted to only one. Dinner parties where your date was the hidden corner or the cocktail bar rather than him. You realized: you were practically already single, and you would rather be comfortably single than repeatedly broken up with - every time he chose you last. 

What you missed were the kisses on your forehead before he left those mornings, the overtimes he put in so that his weekends could be free for you, the refusal of all-expense-paid business trips to Paris, London, Hong Kong just because they did not fit in your schedule. He had the world at his disposal, but home was always his top destination. Some days, he was late to arrive there. He left earlier and more often than he would have liked. But it wasn’t the mansion that drew him back, it was always you. 

Eren:

Eren’s spontaneity was perfect for that summer fling, the movie star of your coming of age. Last-minute drive-ins, sudden custard cravings, sneaking out of windows, and spur-of-the-moment road trips to nowhere, Eren was game for all of your heart’s desires, the most indulgent boyfriend, maple syrup on tap. 

Seasons changed, though, yet his impulsiveness didn’t. Come your birthday, he had no surprises planned, just whatever you want. Anniversaries that he would play by ear. When leases ran up and it was time to decide whether to move in together, he was a shrug of the shoulders: what do you think? Anything about your future, he played listener and simply let you drone on. He did not change the subject, but his lack of enthusiasm essentially did, a deafening silence to your thoughts: indifferent to a life with you. 

In frustration’s lens, his open mind became a careless one. Adventure was just childishness in disguise. Did he really love you or the idea of you? Were you a special someone or just someone to share experiences with? Unthoughtful, and you don’t deserve someone who doesn’t think of you. 

You decided to give him a taste of his own medicine when you suddenly packed your bags and snuck out of his house for the last time. Before he could realize you were upset, you were already gone, denying him a chance to tell his truth. He did not care about the steps along the way, all he cared about was sharing your path. Leaving decisions in your hands, he let you be the captain while he played passenger to your life. Given your fear of growing up, he felt that he could be your partner in playfulness, keeping your spirits alive. All of him meant to prioritize your happiness, whatever that would take, wherever it would lead you - even if it was out the door.

Armin:

Ocean-blue eyes, sunshine in his hair. Warm smile, soft hands. His appearance caught your attention, his mentality was what hooked you. Armin thought ahead, far ahead, constantly several steps before yours. It allowed you to relax for once, trusting that everything was safe in his hands. Reserving tables, making plans, shopping lists, booking hotels, thorough itineraries, his handling of everything convinced you to worry about nothing. 

In taking away your stressors, though, he had taken them all to himself. He would pile on, pile on, pile on until he was overwhelmed, taking it out through sporadic morning sprints and screaming in scalding showers. Apparently, his preferred decompression lie in caffeine-fueled midnight spells at his desk over a bed with you. When you tried to quell him, he would whimper, I’ll try to do better. I’ll do better. A simple sentence, but misunderstood. You thought he would improve at communicating with you, that he would work to share his workload. He meant the opposite: if he could manage his time better, if he could measure his responsibilities accurately, it would prevent his meltdowns so that he wouldn’t have to run to you. 

You were patient week by week. Month by month, you began to wonder. A year later, and he still had not even thought to let you in. From there, anxiety’s voice amplified: he thinks you’re incapable, incompetent. You can’t be trusted with even the smallest things. He doesn’t trust you.

No matter how many times he read it over, your letter still confused him. Encyclopedias and editorials, no piece of literature had left him lost like you had. A good head on one’s shoulders was his first and foremost requirement of any partner, so why did you say you didn’t have one? You saw his mistakes and loved him past them, how could you claim he was a perfectionist? All of him was with you in mind, but if he couldn’t share his life with you, you weren’t his life partner. 

Jean: 

By his own confession, he was helplessly in love with you. Jean said it early, said it often, both in words and actions. Close cuddles every night, deliberate kisses every morning. Regular reminders of his feelings had lifted your self-esteem from lowest lows to highest highs. You were such royalty in his eyes, you actually started to believe it in your own. Jean willed your status into reality.

You became the decision maker, the head of the home. He became your biggest fan, your yes-man. From things as small as choosing dinner to topics as big as world views and your futures, he was completely agreeable. Your hobbies, your friends, your feelings became his. At first, you thought you had met your perfect match. Despite his praise, though, you knew that the world did not revolve around you, only his did. When you asked him what he really wanted, he looked lost. Starting hypotheticals with if I wasn’t around… left him dazed. 

He was your perfect match because he was your mirror. In becoming yours, Jean Kirstein lost himself, you killed him. Playing his commandant, you destroyed him. Letting him free, you owed it to him. 

Jean could not disagree, no matter how much he wanted to: he had become yours, you had changed all of him. What you got wrong, though, was that it was for the worse. The role of significant other was what made him come alive. Before you, he was nothing. With you, he was something. Your needs gave him purpose. Your smiles gave him rewards. You had led him down a candy trail in pursuit of your affection. He had always imagined it would lead to a lifetime with you, but instead, you cut him off in the middle of your forest: lost and confused, alone and hopeless, nowhere and nobody. 

Reiner:

Radiant. Blonde hair reflected all light, making him stand out in any scene. His voice was deep, you dove and drowned in it. A head-turning, infectious laugh. Reiner’s body language was confident, his figure strong. His smile was inviting, his eye contact solid, attractive conventionally and especially to you. Broad shoulders would carry your troubles, soft lips would kiss your wounds. You clung to him like a life preserver, someone to share your struggles.

It was selfish of you, but he didn’t see it that way. In fact, he took it as the opposite. In catching your tears, he knew you would be there to wipe his. Listening to your vents, you had handed him a microphone to voice the things he needed off his chest. With you, Reiner was comfortable, even more than times he was alone. You let him cry while his inner voice yelled for him to stop. Tears penetrated your shirt, soaking all the way to your heart. Ashamed to admit it, but you used to enjoy them. A one-person audience to his other side. Proof that he could be himself with you. You took pride in that exclusivity.

Night after night, though, those emotions started to lose their rarity. Bags under your eyes, drifting off to sleep but woken up by a loud sob, Reiner was no longer romantic, but pathetic. That assured and capable man from before turned hollow in your presence. This isn’t what you signed up for. You’ve been tricked. You’re not his therapist. Instead of sympathy, apathy. Your former desire to hear all he had to say was overshadowed by your longing for him to be happy. The more he cried to you, the further you reached towards the conclusion: he was more often sad than happy in your presence. 

You said it was best for him, but you were the best thing that ever happened to him. You said that you could still be friends, but his friends didn’t know what you did, no one did. You had taught him it was okay to feel, but finished the lesson: just not with me. 

Zeke: 

Sharp, critical, an opinion for everything, above it all. You found him flawless because he could find flaws in anything, so when you managed to make him fall for you, your ego swelled: you were perfect. 

Reserving a passenger seat in his car, you felt you had booked a celebrity. Movie tickets, plane tickets, side by side, the exclusive partner for his excursions. Sharing his bed felt too good to be true. In it, the adoration he gave you was ripped straight from your dreams. For you, he only had praise. When he became your everything, your flaws disappeared to nothing. Two perfect people in love with each other, you thought your relationship would be the same.

It was for a while. Hearing his rambles, you savored his cynical perspectives and the low sound of his voice. His contempt for everything else, you translated it as proof of his love for you. When all else was awful, he found solace with you. Eventually, though, that lens grew cloudy in cigarette smoke. You could listen for hours, but the only thing that stopped his rants were the Marlboros. You never minded the smell of smoke, but when you thought of its connotations - confiding in cigarettes rather than you - you grew to hate it, to envy it. 

You worked so hard to make your home a happy one, but rant by rant, it was filled with sadness. If he had so much to complain about, he must not have been happy. If he was not happy, you were not helping him, at least, not enough. Not enough, not enough, not enough - no matter how much he insisted. 

// masterlist //

[thena0315]

Never forget that Levi was able to take down 27 Abnormal Titans all on his own in a short time (Zeke had 3 with him when he tried to escape, so technically Levi didn't take on 30 at once).

And it hurt him like hell to put his subordinates to rest after what Zeke did.

[nyny-berry71]

You plus me me is not equal us:

Yan/Zeke Jeager x reader

5-

A bottle had been thrown in the endless stream of their lives.

Yet, that night, this bottle seemed to have reached the other’s one soul.

The way they learned so much about an another life’s perspective as the seconds passed seemed to be a fairytale.

That night, they learned to know each other better.

She learned so well, she had forgotten everything about her own troubles.

As the minutes passed next to each other, she was slowly becoming fond of him and his way of being.

Everything about him attracted her.

And when she lingered her eyes on him and saw nothing but the light of her heart, she knew she would never leave his side.

The way he looked at her. His compliments filled with shyness. His attitude towards her. The way he was him.

The manner in which they had so much in common yet so much differences forced her to believe they were connected in some way.

Or that they were destined to meet on that balmy summer's evening.

"I fear you are right on this point but the destiny is quite awful."

She knew he was talking about the events that occurred earlier in the evening so she laughed.

"The destiny is the destiny, we can do no worse nor better…"

She was not able to finish her sentence as she yawned, tiny tears forming at the corner of her eyes.

"I do think it’s getting late and it may be time to take you home. Can I ?"

"No need, as I told you, I live quite away from your home and It would be an unnecessary detour for a warrior who has to get to the training camps at dawn."

"I simply cannot leave the woman I have spent the whole evening with. I owe it to you."

She looked at him with a dubious expression as an answer to his sentence. "The phrasing is certainly strange but I do accept your proposal." She gathered the few belongings she had brings with her and tried to get up from the grass which had long since cooled off.

Yet, the now embarrassed man, stood up quicker than she could and offered his hand to help her to her feet.

When she reached for him, she was not expecting to be swiftly shoved into his arms.

The sudden warm sensation she felt on his chest was the most intense sensation she had ever experienced in her young life.

Put this way, it sounds like the words of a woman of virtue who has never had physical contact with a man.

Indeed, it was the case.

Never in her life did she took the time to write letters to a man or simply talk with one of them.

Her dad was, since the day he had learnt he would be the father of a daughter, a protective one.

Since her early years she was not allowed to have male friends or even talking with one of them.

Her father was deeply concerned about her and could not bring himself to think about a possible relationship for her.

She was his only child, his only baby.

"I’m so sorry, I did not measured my force to pull you. Sorry for the inconvenience."

He sounded as embarrassed as a child.

The right side of her head, which layed on him, could hear his heart pounding faster than the usual as he was starting to stutter and mumble nonsense.

She slowly, but surely, pulled out her head out of his chest and looked up at him. However he was tall enough for her to not grasp the sight of his eyes. She untied her arms and took small steps backward.

"I would be concerned if a warrior had no force… it’s indeed a good sign!"

As to tease him, she pointed her finger at him and smirked eyes closed. The man was still flustered by all his embarrassing actions and could not manage to look at her.

As to notify him it was time to leave, she turned around and walked away.

Well, she did not have to walk too long before hearing him speak.

"…please excuse my lack of manners…it’s so lame of me…"

He finally said on a defeated tone.

As she did minutes earlier, she turned around in a rapid momentum.

The way she did was like out of a romance novel.

Her hairs got blown up in the air by the wind.

Her skirt followed her moving.

And her face sported a serious look.

She dangerously stepped forward him and stopped when she was standing not far from him.

"I’m no army, you just don’t have to be so rigid about your feelings and I bet everything will go on smoothly!"

She used her hands to emphasise her sentence.

"I know it’s hard to do so but if you do it for yourself and only you then I’m sure you will not struggle anymore."

"I know but why is it so difficult to feel part of something then? Why is it hard to understand how the others feel? I’m only doing things because I think it’s what they wait from me."

His head was still low, his fist was tight and she could see him slightly shaking.

She was taken aback by his sudden behaviour towards himself.

During the whole time they spent together, he seemed to have so much confidence, yet something was weighing heavily on his consciousness.

Tender face to his open heart, she steadily moved to his side. And it’s only when she arrived close enough to hear him heavily breathing she stopped.

In a attempt to show him she understood him, she reached for his hand in a gentle gesture. When she felt his warmth between her small palms, she tightened it a little. Just enough for him to finally open his eyes and look at the figure beneath him.

She had a soft smile on her face as she looked up at him.

"I have heard you. I will learn you how to feel better about your own self okay ?"

Her thumb gently caressed the back of his hand. "You don’t have to worry about opening yourself to me, I will never judge you for it. I think for now you only need to rest a bit!"

He didn't seem to want to answer but he wanted to talk to her.

"Have you ever done something for yourself?"

She was amused by his words and giggled just thinking about her answer.

"Of course, live!"

She said it with so much enthusiasm, he had to forget for a moment about his own troubles.

How could you live for yourself and not just to live up to expectations? This question, he was so used to asking it himself he had forgotten people could answer.

"I see… please…don’t change the way you think [reader]."

"Never will I Zeke, now it’s time to take you home! Come on! Follow me!"

She pulled him gently so that he finally moved from his immobility.

"Thank you…[reader]."

He whispered to her his gratitude. Yet the whole world could have heard but she seemed to be the only one who couldn’t grasp his words.

That night, he was the one grabbing the bottle from the stream. And he promised himself he would never put it back in the water.

[chunkyhunkyduck]

In an alternate universe, Tina Belcher is married to Jimmy Jr., now a world-renowned dancer. Living what others would call a "perfect life," Tina has settled into the role of a trophy wife—running errands, keeping house, and quietly indulging in her passion for writing short stories. She doesn't mind the routine; after all, she's with the boy she chased for years.

But while cleaning out the garage one afternoon, Tina stumbles upon an old photo. her, Jimmy Jr., Zeke, and the rest of their Wagstaff crew. The sight tugs at her heart, sparking memories of schoolyard antics and childhood laughter. One memory in particular rises above the rest: Zeke, loud, unpredictable, and rough around the edges, muttering that ridiculous line—“You think it’s not gonna happen, but I’ll getcha, girl. I’m gonna getcha.” She laughs at first, but something stirs.

As days pass, her thoughts drift more frequently to Zeke. What ever happened to him?

Late at night, while Jimmy Jr. sleeps beside her, Tina finds herself wondering what if?

Curiosity drives her to search online and she finds him. Zeke is working at a small restaurant in New York, saving up for culinary school and still wrestling on the side. He’s older now, broader, cleaner-cut, but just as the same as she remembered from back then.

Tina makes up a harmless lie to visit him. One meeting turns into two, then more. They talk about life, dreams, and the people they used to be. Zeke is different, yet still the same boy who once made her laugh and annoy her to no end.

As Tina begins sneaking out during Jimmy Jr.’s rehearsals to spend time with Zeke, guilt brews beneath her growing feelings. She has the man she always wanted—but does she still want him? Or has the illusion finally cracked?

Now caught between the comfort of her past and the thrill of something new, Tina must confront a truth she never expected: she might be falling for Zeke.