reikoackerman

[reikoackerman]

Our happy little family

Characters: Levi x Rei (me)

Genre: Modern!au

Warnings: SFW, fluffy. Mentions of childbirth and everything kinda bloody and gross. Also very very VERY self-indulgent. Block the tags #levi x rei and #reivi to refrain from cringing. Also, I cried happy tears writing this, so I hope you all can happy cry together with me 🥺

Word count: 6k I'm very fucking sorry lol

A/N: Yes lol the day is here. Finally, you all will know the name of the last Ackerman Junior ~ ^_^ I'm tagging the loml @mrscommandersmith just because <3

Also I've obviously not given birth before so there might be some inconsistencies hahaha I'm sorry and do not mind me :') I tried not to talk too much about medical terminologies so, bear with me and enjoy the story hehe.

[03 July 2022]

It's here.

Again.

Once every 15 minutes, I keep feeling that annoying pain in my abdomen, as though I was having a very very bad cramp. Breathe in, breathe out. Calm down, Rei. You got this. I told myself. I turned to Levi who was sleeping peacefully next to me, his breathing slow and deep, a contrast to my own ragged and harsh panting. Clutching on to my watch tight, I looked at the seconds ticking by, counting till the contraction subsided.

Thirty seconds later, the cramps were gone. I quickly noted it down in my phone.

Is today the day? I wondered. Hange told us that our little princess would be due any time during the first week of July, and Levi and I have been like a bundle of nerves since then. Levi already prepared the overnight bag last week and also took the week off work, ready to drive us to the hospital whenever. I quickly got up and washed my face, making my way back to the bed before I started contracting again.

Fifteen minutes passed, and the contraction came back again stronger. Out of instinct, I grabbed Levi's hand hard, and he suddenly jumped awake.

"Mon cœur—" Levi let out a yawn mid-sentence. "What's wrong?" The sleepiness was still evident in Levi's voice. He briefly pushed himself up and saw my face covered in a light sheen of perspiration.

"L-Levi, I th-think, I think it's—" I grabbed Levi's hand tight again and closed my eyes before feeling the cramps subside. I slowly let out a long breath before looking at my husband. "I've been keeping track for the past 45 minutes. The contractions are coming at a regular interval." Levi's eyes widened as he wiped my perspiration away.

"I-I think our little princess is arriving today." I placed my free hand on my bump and gave Levi a shaky smile. Levi scrambled out of bed and went to wash up, calling his mother to meet at the hospital. I tried pushing myself up and poured myself a glass of water, dropping Mia a text to tell her what was happening. It was close to midnight, and I didn't want to wake her up since she had work tomorrow. Before my cramps came back, I quickly called Isabel as well, telling her and Farlan to come over and babysit the kids and our fur babies. I knew Levi would call Farlan and tell him the same thing too; they already have the spare keys to our house. Knowing Levi, he would have dropped Erwin and Mike a text as well.

Levi quickly gave Hange a call to tell them what was happening, and that we would reach the hospital within an hour. Another wave of cramps hit and I winced, willing myself to finish the glass of water before leaving. Levi rushed to the kitchen and took out some granola bars, dark chocolate, milo bars, and bottles of water and added them into the overnight bag. Grabbing a thick wool jacket of his that he knows I love wearing, Levi draped it across my shoulders before helping me up. Checking on the twins and Renée, Levi carried me out of the house and locked the door, a look of worry all across his face.

"Amour, calm down, I'm fine, really," I clutched onto Levi's hand while he placed me down in the passenger seat. "This is our fourth child already, relax." Funny how I'm the one about to give birth, but Levi is behaving like a lost sheep instead.

"Do I need to remind you about what Hange said? Every pregnancy is different." Levi placed the overnight bag at the rear before quickly going to the driver seat, passing me a pillow that he knows I'll definitely need. "How are you feeling?" He adjusted his mirrors before driving, interlocking my hand in his.

"Fine, for now," I closed my eyes again as another wave of contractions came. I grabbed the pillow and Levi's hand tight. When we stopped at the red light, Levi turned on the radio, tuning to the station playing classical music. Levi brought my hand to his lips, pressing a soft kiss to each of my knuckles as the contractions subsided again.

"Je t'aime, mon cœur," Levi whispered before driving off when the lights turned green.

"我也爱你，亲爱的。(I love you too, my darling)." I managed to smile before kissing the back of Levi's hand in return. Isabel replied my message and said she and Farlan are already at our house. Our kids are still sleeping soundly.

"You're doing so good, baby, stay strong for a while more, okay? We're reaching soon. Hange's waiting." I nodded before closing my eyes, willing myself to breathe normally especially when the contractions came back.

[04 July 2022]

It was almost 12:45am when we reached the hospital's car park. Hange worked at a Women's and Children's Hospital, and probably one of the best in the country. Renée, Pierre and Léon were all delivered by Hange and their team, and I have absolute confidence that our little princess will be in good hands.

Levi pushed a wheelchair towards the passenger door and helped me sit, grabbing the overnight bag and locking the car properly before wheeling me inside. True to what Levi said, Hange and Moblit were waiting for us. Moblit looked a little pale while Hange was smiling.

"Good day Mrs Ackerman," Hange joked while Levi scowled. "How's everything?"

"I've been having these regular contractions every 15 minutes or so, and each of them last for about 30 seconds," I muttered as Levi wheeled me ahead, Hange and Moblit walking beside us. "I've been keeping track since about 11:15pm."

"You've done really well, Rei. Now let's get you changed and comfortable, and we'll start prepping you, okay?" Hange patted my shoulder as I nodded.

"Has your water bag broke yet?" Moblit asked.

"No idea, I think so? I feel a little moist down there."

"Your water bag broke?! Why didn't you say anything in the car? I would've driven faster and—" Levi frowned and I had to calm him down again.

"I'm fine, Levi! Relax."

"Oh, please calm down Levi," Moblit quickly interrupted, scribbling on his clipboard. "Everything is under control." It's so amusing to see my usually calm and collected husband getting so flustered. Hange was laughing as well, the sight of Levi panicking must be really entertaining.

Once we reached the delivery suit, Hange's team of nurses were already on standby, greeting Levi and I cheerfully. It felt good to be in the hands of such skillful and dedicated nurses, and there was already a sense of familiarity too.

Once nurse Nifa helped me change into the gown, Levi grabbed my hand as Hange did their first round of checks. Thankfully, my water bag hasn't broke yet. The moistness I was feeling was from the mucus plug.

"You're about 3cm dilated now," Hange looked up once they're done. "You know the drill, we'll have to wait till you're about 10cm." The rest of the nurses started hooking up all the wires to the machines to monitor mine and our baby's heartbeats.

"Everything's fine. Just breathe, relax, and call us when you need anything." Hange gently pat my head as they spoke, giving Levi a nod of reassurance.

"This might be their fourth child, but I don't want anyone to be complacent, understood?" Hange spoke to their team of nurses and they all nodded. "Keep me and Dr Berner updated with Rei's progress."

"Yes, Dr Zoe!" Hange then left the delivery room as they had to check on other patients.

"About seven hours to go, then?" Levi looked at his watch. It was about 1:25am.

"It might take faster than that, Mr Ackerman," Nifa piqued. "Since it's her fourth delivery already, Mrs Ackerman might dilate faster than usual."

"I know, b-but, but then, her contractions lasted so long with the boys. I'm just—"

"Amour, it's fine. I'm fine. Relax for me, okay? Our little princess can feel it if you're nervous." I squeezed Levi's hand, smiling up at him. Levi visibly relaxed and gave me a soft kiss to my forehead.

"Mm. Do you need anything?" Levi released his grip on my hand and brought the overnight bag over. "Milo, sweets, chocolate?" Levi took out a milo bar, some sweets, and a few chocolates.

"I'm fine, Levi. I don't need anything. I just want you here." I giggled, grabbing his hand again. Levi gave me a kiss as he swiped my fringe away. He nodded and gazed at me, telling me about something funny that happened at work. Everytime I felt my contractions, Levi would whisper encouragements in my ear, gently rubbing my arm as I squirmed around.

"You're about 4cm now, Mrs Ackerman," Nifa did a quick check. "We might want to induce labour later by breaking your water bag when we get to about 6cm or so." I nodded, taking shallow breaths. Just then, Levi got a message on his phone.

"Maman's here." I nodded, urging him to go talk to Aunty Kuchel. She must be worried and nervous too. "Don't worry about me. Go spend some time with your mum." Levi seemed reluctant to leave me in the room.

"Go, don't worry." Levi sighed, muttering "I'll be quick" before going outside. Waves of contractions came and passed, each getting a little more intense. I wonder what time was it now. Levi came back later with a cup of tea in his hand and the corner of his lips looking a little dirty.

"Was the croissant good?" I giggled. Levi looked a little embarrassed. "H-how did—"

"You have some pastry crust on the corner of your lips, love," I gestured for him to come closer before kissing Levi full on the lips. "And now they're gone." Levi's face turned pink, realising that he was walking around with pastry crust on his lips, and that I just ate the crust off his lips in a room full of people.

"You're really cheerful for someone about to give birth." Levi scowled again, wiping his mouth with some tissue.

"I don't know, I'm actually feeling really excited. I can't wait to meet her." I held Levi's hand again, feeling a surge of emotions. Levi's other hand went to gently pat the bump, giving me a soft smile.

"I know. I can't wait to meet her too." I looked at Levi bashfully. Levi interlocked his fingers in mine, gently stroking my knuckles. I tried to take deep, slow breaths as the intensity of the cramps start to increase. Levi softly kissed the crease between my eyebrows. We've been married for six years and I still feel butterflies everytime he does that. It's funny how back in the day, Levi would feel embarrassed to even hold my hand. Now, Levi is actually showing me affection in a room full of people. I guess fatherhood really changed him. Or maybe, being with me changed him?

Hange came back after 3am, making a check on me again.

"You holding up okay, Rei? How's the contractions?"

"Uhh... they're getting stronger... how far am I now, Hange?"

"You're 7cm dilated now, we'll break the water bag soon to help you induce labour. How's your pain on a scale of one to 10?"

"I guess... about 6? Maybe 7?" I grimaced as I felt another wave of contractions. Levi held my hand tighter. Hange sat by the edge of the bed and began to do something to burst my water bag.

"How are you?" Levi asked me again. I nodded, adjusting my position on the bed. Levi opened a bottle of water and inserted a straw for me to drink. "Keep yourself hydrated, you're going to lose a lot of water later." I nodded again, taking sips of water as Levi opened a granola bar and tearing it into small bite-sized chunks. Our last meal was around 7pm, and I was feeling a little hungry.

"Are you sure you don't want the epidural?" Levi asked me and I firmly shook my head.

"No... I can do it, I can do this. I don't want it, Levi," I grimaced again. I didn't take any of these when I gave birth to Renée and the boys, and I definitely don't want to take them now, too.

"I don't need it, Levi." I looked at him again. Levi stared at me, until he gave me a small nod. He knew how stubborn I am sometimes, and there's no point in persuading me to do something I don't want to. Levi fed me a few more bites of the granola bar.

"What time is it now, amour?" I asked Levi after I was done eating. The contractions were getting even stronger. It was really starting to hurt. Perhaps it was time soon. Levi yawned and checked his watch.

"It's almost five soon," Levi yawned again, rubbing the sleepiness out of his eyes.

"Take a nap if you're tired." I urged him, but Levi shook his head.

"No, I'm staying awake. I want to be with you all the way," Levi gave me a small smile and drank from the cup he brought back hours ago, scrunching his face in disgust. "God, their tea sucks."

"I heard that, shorty," Hange called out as they entered again, Moblit following behind. Levi ignored them and drank some water. The contractions were getting really unbearable now, and I could feel it. Our baby wants to say hi to us soon. I started breathing a little harsher, and both Hange and Levi seemed to notice it too. Hange quickly made a check.

"Rei's about 9cm now. Everyone standby!" The nurses all went to their designated spots, some standing by the monitors, some standing next to Hange. I could feel it again. Our baby is pushing against my cervical opening. The pain got even stronger and I clutched Levi's hand tight. I tried to regulate my breathing, Levi whispering next to my ear.

Once Hange told me I was close to 10cm, Levi's usually stoic expression was long gone, he clenched my hand tightly in his as Hange kept telling me to breathe in and out.

"You're doing good, Rei, keep breathing. When I say push, push as hard as you can, hmm?" Hange called out and I grunted.

"One, two, three, push!" I tried pushing as hard as I can, hands squeezing Levi tight. I don't know how hard I'm grabbing him, but I could tell that Levi was bearing with the pain too. My face was screwed up as I pushed again with all my might once Hange told me to push. It may be my fourth time giving birth, but I'm never ever going to get used to this pain.

I don't want to give birth ever again.

Once more, Hange told me to push harder, our little princess' head was slowly getting closer.

"Good girl, mon cœur, you're doing so well. So brave, my wife," Levi repeated next to my ear, wiping my perspiration and tears. I huffed and puffed, feeling nothing but excruciating pain. Hange told me to push again and I did, mustering all my strength and pushing as hard as I can. I grit my teeth and clenched my fist, I'll brave through all these pain for our little princess.

"I can see her head, Rei, keep going! You're doing well!" Hange called out again, further encouraging me. My face was so wet, I didn't know if they were from my tears or perspiration anymore. Hange told me to push again, as hard as I can.

"C'mon, baby, you're doing so good, I'm so proud of you. Just a bit more—" Levi caressed my cheek and kissed my sweaty forehead, muttering endless words of encouragement next to me. "I love you, Rei, I love you so much. My darling, the love of my life, my Rei of sunshine. My girl, you're amazing." Even through my pain, I could tell Levi was choking up. I knew he would rather be the one in my place, to help relieve some of my pain.

I calmed myself down and brought Levi's hands to my lips to kiss them, feeling strength flow through me again. Hange kept encouraging me to push harder; they could see our little princess. I held on to Levi's hand tighter just as Levi leaned his forehead again mine, I pushed with all my might.

All was quiet for a moment, until we all heard the first cries of a newborn. Tears welled up in my eyes as I breathed and panted, looking up at Levi. We both turned to the source of crying.

"Congratulations, Mr and Mrs Ackerman, it's 5:10am, say hi to your baby girl." Hange was beaming as they carried our little crying princess over. She looked like a little baguette, her skin red and sticky. Her cries were crisp and clear. I quickly placed her against my chest, letting her feel my heartbeat and skin. Her cries started to soften. No matter how many times I've given birth, this moment always feels the most magical to me. The skin-to-skin contact. The mother and baby bonding. It's a special moment between our little princess and me. My baby. Our baby. Our daughter.

She's here. Our little princess is really here. My tears started falling uncontrollably as I looked up at Levi with a teary smile. Levi's eyes were moist as he gazed at me lovingly. Wiping the perspiration off my forehead, Levi pressed his lips on my sticky skin and leaned his forehead against mine again.

"I'm so proud of you, mon cœur. I love you. I love so much." Levi choked again as we wept tears of joy.

"Okay, Levi, time to cut her cord," Hange chuckled, carrying our baby girl over to a bunch of towels. Levi stared at Hange.

"Oh, come on! You've done this three times already, don't tell me you're still nervous?" Hange joked and Levi hastily wiped his tears, following Hange’s instructions even thought he probably already knew them by heart. Once Levi cut our little princess' umbilical cord, Hange briefly cleaned her up and put her on a weighing scale, taking down our baby girl's vitals and measurements. Then, Hange wrapped her in a towel before passing her back to me.

"We'll just have to wait for her placenta to flush out, and then we'll do the clean up." I hugged our little princess close to my heart again, beaming towards Levi. Her eyes slightly opened to peep at us.

"She's gorgeous. Just like you." Levi smiled as he gently stroked our little girl with his finger. "It's still too early to tell, amour. But y-yeah, she's lovely. And s-so t-tiny..." I choked up again, feeling a little lump in my throat. Hange did tell us before that our little princess is a little underweight, and I couldn't help but blame myself. Now that I'm taking a better look, our baby girl was a little tinier compared to how Renée, Pierre and Léon were when they were just born. Maybe I should have taken better care of myself, or eaten healthier food. I should've taken those prenatal vitamins consistently. Tears started falling again, but they weren't happy tears.

"Rei—mon cœur, listen. Listen to me," Levi wiped my tears and made me look at him. "Hange said she's healthy. And that's the most important, hmm? Come on now, don't cry anymore." Levi kissed me softly as he stroked my head lovingly.

"Shhh, baby, don't cry. I love you, more than anything else in this world. Always know that," Levi softly pecked our little princess. "You're my wife, my beloved, and our children's mother. You're the best." Levi smiled at me again as I blinked my tears away. I gave him a little nod, the corners of my lips turning up.

"I hate to interupt this lovely moment, Ackermans, but we have to register her name," Hange came over, writing on a clipboard. "Have you two thought of her name already?" Levi and I looked at each other and smiled before turning over to Hange.

"Charlotte Rachel Ackerman. That's her English name." Levi replied with a smile. Aunty Kuchel helped us choose her first name, she said 'Charlotte' meant 'strong' and 'free' in French. Levi and I decided on 'Rachel' together. It was a lovely name, and it was a Hebrew name, just like what all our children have, and what Levi has as well.

"And what about her Chinese name?" Hange looked at us again once they wrote down Charlotte's English name, birth date, and birth hours.

"It's 佳琪 (Jia Qi)。佳 (jia) for beautiful, and 琪 (qi) for fine jade." I told Hange. Levi repeated Charlotte's name over and over in her ear, and she peeped at us again, her tiny mouth widening just a bit. I gently patted her back, rocking her to sleep. Nifa and the rest were already done cleaning me up as well, leaving the delivery suit while Hange and Moblit remained behind.

"You've done so well, my love, I'm so proud of you." Levi stroked Charlotte's cheek again and planted a soft kiss there before kissing me on the lips.

"I love you, Rei, so so much. Thank you." Levi held back another sob as he kissed my forehead, letting his lips linger for a moment longer.

"I love you too, Levi, thank you too, for everything that you've given me." I gave him a teary smile, looking at Charlotte who was lightly snoozing. Levi kissed my forehead once more, as Moblit carried Charlotte away, giving her all her first immunisations while Levi and I just gazed at each other. Renée and Léon cried a lot during their first injections, but Charlotte was so quiet. She merely squirmed around and let out a small cry, but soon after Hange was done, Charlotte was snoozing again.

"She really is a strong little girl, just like her name. I've never met a baby who's so brave when they're given their injections," Moblit smiled as he handed Charlotte back to us. "She's already living up to her name." Levi beamed at her proudly, stroking her cheek once more.

"But she's so quiet. I remember the twins crying a lot more. Is this normal?" Levi looked at Moblit with worry.

"Don't worry Levi, she's fine, she cried a lot earlier, didn't she? Her breathing's normal." Moblit threw his gloves and washed his hands before patting Levi on the shoulder. "We'll let Rei rest here a while more before transferring her back to the normal ward." Levi thanked him and Hange before they both left. The sleepiness started to consume me, and I passed Charlotte to Levi who placed her back in her little cot. The last thing I could remember was Levi kissing me good night, and all I saw next was black.

[06 July 2022]

"We're home," Levi called out as he unlocked our door. Aunty Kuchel was sitting at the living room couch feeding Léon his porridge while Renée was playing peek-a-boo with Pierre.

"Mama! Papa!" Renée called out as she dashed towards us. Aunty Kuchel placed Léon down on the couch before coming over to us as well.

"We're home, Maman," Levi and I called out together as we removed our shoes.

"Mes coeur! Rei, my darling, come here—" Aunty Kuchel grabbed my overnight bag from Levi and guided me to the couch while I was carrying Charlotte. Renée came over to us and stared at the bundle in my arms.

"Say hi to your little sister, ma chérie," Levi smiled as he placed an arm on my shoulder. Renée looked at the both of us and her eyes went back to Charlotte.

"哈喽妹妹，我是你姐姐。(Hello, younger sister, I am your older sister)." Aunty Kuchel carried the boys over too.

"Say hi, boys!" The boys started giggling once they locked eyes with Charlotte, and they happily cooed '妹妹 (younger sister)' together. Hearing all the noise, Charlotte briefly opened her eyes for a little while, and she let out a small whine and a cute yawn. Uh oh. She's hungry.

"Guess it's time to feed her," I told Levi and he brought me back to our room. We made Levi's study room into a temporary bedroom for Aunty Kuchel because she's staying over during my post-natal recovery. We've shifted the twins' cots over to the study room too, so that we can have Charlotte in ours. Renée followed us into the bedroom cautiously.

"Mama?"

"Yes, ma chérie?"

"...... can I touch meimei?" She asked us with wide eyes. To be honest, Levi and I were initially a little worried about Renée's response to yet another younger sibling, furthermore, a younger sister. After we had the boys, Renée got so grumpy and kept throwing tantrums all the time because we could no longer have all our attention on her.

However, it seems like we were thinking too much, because the moment Renée had her eyes on Charlotte, it's like the two of them were starting to form their own special sisterly bond too. One that only the both of them will share and have.

"Come here, ma chérie," Levi called her over and Renée softly poked Charlotte's cheek. Renée even reached her face down to give Charlotte a sniff.

"Meimei smells nice," she muttered, stroking Charlotte's arm now. Levi and I laughed.

"You smelt like that too, you know."

"Really? Was I so wrinkly too?"

"Yes, of course. Now, go out and look for Grand-mère, your Mama needs to feed meimei." Levi patted her cheek and Renée skipped outside. Once Renée was playing with the boys, Levi closed the door and held Charlotte as I briefly undressed. Charlotte was beginning to cry a little louder. Levi quickly handed Charlotte to me, and I cradled her in my arms while guiding her to find my breast, hopefully to get a successful latch on my nipple. It took me a few tries, but in the end, Charlotte managed to latch on my nipple and as she started sucking, I heaved a sigh of relief and lay back on the pillow.

"Damn, my boobs hurt," I whined as I closed my eyes, dreading the countless pumping of breast milk for our baby. My boobs were already feeling so heavy and sore and it hurts.

"I'll massage them later," Levi sat down next to me after changing out of his clothes, patting my knee.

"You just want a chance to grope them, don't you? You're jealous your daughter gets to suck my nipples and you don't," I joked with Levi and he frowned.

"Who said anything about wanting to suck your nipples? I have my entire life to do it." Levi crossed his hands behind his head and leaned on his pillow too.

"I'm serious. If they're hurting, let me know, okay? I'll massage your boobs before every time you pump. I'll freeze your guasha tools and jade roller too."

"Okay okay, amour. I will." Once Charlotte had her fill, I slowly rubbed her back and coaxed her to sleep, laying her against my chest and keeping her warm. As Charlotte snoozed, Levi and I just gazed as her. I still can't believe I gave birth to this angel two days ago. Levi, I, and our four children. Our little Ackerman family seemed whole and complete now. Who would have thought that the both of us would be in this stage of our lives in just six years? It was like Levi knew what I was thinking, and he reached an arm across my shoulder and hugged me close, pressing a soft kiss to my cheek.

"I love you, mon cœur. Thank you for everything that you've given me." I merely looked up at Levi and hummed, smiling as I felt tears starting to dot my lash line. I am so not ready for those mood swings again. Levi seemed to know what I was thinking too, because he wiped those tears away and tried to stiffle his laugh.

"I am so not looking forward to your random outbursts of crying," Levi stroked Charlotte's cheek again.

"I'm not too. But it's all good. I know you'll always be there for me." I whispered, slowly patting Charlotte's back as she snoozed. "But first, let's prepare ourselves for all the visiting that's coming for us soon—" I let out a yawn, quickly making sure that I didn't accidentally scare Charlotte.

"Mm. Don't worry. I told everyone to come only at their allocated time slots." Levi whipped out his phone and started going through the 'baby visiting schedule' he planned. Erwin, Mia, and their kids will be visiting tomorrow evening, followed by Nanaba and Mike the next day. Hange and Moblit will be dropping by when they both end work, and Farlan and Isabel will visit during the weekend. Before I knew it, my eyelids closed on their own and I dozed off listening to Levi's voice, my head leaning on his bare shoulder. Levi didn't realise I fell asleep too, until I stopped replying to him. Smiling to himself, Levi adjusted my head properly, hugged me a little closer, and just like that, we drifted off to dreamland together.

It felt like we were only asleep for a second, because Levi and I were both abruptly shaken awake by Charlotte's cries.

"She's hung—" Levi let out a yawn mid-sentence and rubbed his eyes. "She's hungry again? It's been barely two hours." I undressed again and tried to get Charlotte a successful latch, and moments later Charlotte was happily enjoying her milk.

"My daughter's hungry, and I am too," I grumbled and Levi started laughing. "She's only two days old and already having such a huge appetite."

"Guess who does our little angel resemble now, huh?" Levi kissed my forehead and pushed himself out of the bed as I continued to feed Charlotte.

"I'll get Maman to cook something for us. I'm starving too." Putting on a shirt, Levi went out to tell Aunty Kuchel to cook something. She's probably already going to make some confinement food for me. Mmm, my mouth watered at the thought of eating sesame oil chicken.

Levi didn't come back after a while, even after Charlotte finished drinking her milk. While coaxing a milk-drunk Charlotte to sleep, Levi came back later with a cup full of hot red dates tea. He urged me to finish drinking it so that I wouldn't feel so lethargic. As I finished drinking, Charlotte was sleeping peacefully as well. Levi and I just remained in bed while we waited for Aunty Kuchel to be done with dinner.

The first evening with Charlotte went okay, she didn't really cry much and drank her milk well. I was thankful to have Aunty Kuchel helping me watch the twins too, as they kept playing with their food. While I made sure Charlotte was properly fed, Levi was doing the same for me too, feeding me small mouthfuls of food. Renée was a great older sister as well, helping her Grand-mère and I with the young ones. She ate her meals quietly and helped Aunty Kuchel feed Léon. I had my hands full with taking care of Charlotte, and I was glad that I had such a supportive mother-in-law and husband. Even my eldest daughter was beginning to show more of her 'big sister' side.

Once we were all done with our meals, I went back to the bedroom and started to coax Charlotte to sleep again. Levi was by my side, giving me a shoulder massage. Just then, there was a knock on our door.

"Mama?" Levi and I both turned our heads and saw Renée outside, holding her brothers on each side.

"Yes, ma chérie?" Levi ushered the children in and carried the boys onto our bed.

"Can we all sleep together on your bed tonight?" Renée asked as Pierre started crawling on our bed and Léon ran into Levi's chest. Carrying the boys on his left and right, Levi smiled and told Renée to come up too. She giggled and snuggled in between Levi and I. Instead of sticking close to her Papa, Renée shifted closer to me and started staring at Charlotte again. We both looked at each other, surprised by her behaviour.

"Who wants a bedtime story?" Levi suddenly spoke and the twins started laughing. Renée loved it when Levi read her bedtime stories. Levi was surprisingly good at story-telling, and he can even change his pitch and voice when he was changing between the characters. Levi started telling them about Goldilocks and the Three Bears, not forgetting to make things a little exaggerating to scare them too.

However, Renée was still uninterested in whatever Levi was doing and instead, she hugged me while Charlotte was still in my arms too.

"Mama, can I carry meimei?"

I hesitated for a while. Can I really trust my six-year-old with my two-day old baby? What if Renée didn't know how to carry Charlotte correctly and injured her? What if she hurt herself too? In the end, I gave Renée a smile and nodded.

"Of course you can, sweetheart. Show me how do you carry Mr Teddy?" Renée grabbed a pillow and imitated my arms, cradling the pillow pretending it was her favourite bear.

"Good job. But you must be careful, okay? Meimei is a lot heavier than Mr Teddy. You must tell Mama or Papa if your arms are aching." Renée nodded again and she placed the pillow on her lap, using it to support her arms. I slowly placed Charlotte in her arms while Levi watched. Renée groaned when she felt the weight on her arms.

"I don't like meimei anymore," Renée whined again and I quickly carried Charlotte back into my arms. "She's heavy when she's so tiny."

"You were this tiny and heavy too, ma chérie," Levi chuckled and Pierre stirred in his sleep. "Imagine how tired Mama is from carrying meimei all day." Renée kept quiet for a while and she looked like she was in deep thought.

"Mama, if you're tired, I'll massage your arms." My heart softened hearing Renée. She really is growing up and acting like a big sister now.

"What about me, hmm? My arms are aching after carrying your didi too." Levi started complaining and Renée giggled, saying that her Papa doesn't need massages because his arms are stronger. Who knew the day would come where Renée would actually talk back to Levi.

As time passed, Renée was getting sleepy too. She closed her eyes and lay down on my pillow. Levi was still carrying the boys too. And as we looked at each other again, we gently kissed our four children goodnight, before washing up and getting ready for bed too.

"And finally, we have the entire house to ourselves." Levi grumbled while we were brushing our teeth. He went to shave his stubble while I changed into my night gown. Now that our children are all asleep, I can finally pump my milk without getting disturbed.

"You were the one who said you wanted a fourth child, amour, don't forget that." I yawned and went to grab the pumps, wondering if I will be getting proper sleep. Taking my seat on the armchair next to Charlotte's cot, I attached the pumps onto my breasts and let them do their work.

"Of course I wanted another one. Look at how happy they all are." Levi came out after he was done and squeezed himself onto the armchair, draping an arm across my waist. "I didn't have siblings growing up, and neither did you. Maybe this is why I always wanted to have many children." I hummed in agreement, feeling the fatigue slowly consuming me.

"I know, amour. I feel the same too. B-but it's ju—" I let out another yawn and Levi let out a soft laughter.

"Get some sleep, baby, I'll take care of Charlotte if she wakes up." I nodded again and leaned my head on my husband's shoulder, drifting off to sleep as I felt his lips gently kissing my forehead. Levi and I are now proud parents to our four beautiful children, and no matter how tired things get, I'm sure we'll never exchange this for anything else in the world. Levi, Renée, Pierre, Léon, Charlotte, and I. Our happy little family.

Hehe yes everyone, the little princess is called Charlotte Rachel Ackerman 🥰 and yes, I'll post the meaning behind the kiddos names soon!!! I've put A LOT of thought into our children's names so please hold up and wait out for that post hehe. ALSO. Don't you all wanna know how the four Ackerman juniors look like?? Hehe.

And I know some of the things here are taking place in the 'future' lol BUT LET IT SLIDE OKAY IT'S FICTION HAHA. Lastly. I apologise for the verbal diarrhoea I know it is very long-winded and dramatic 😂

[reikoackerman]

hello everyone i am turning in an assignment from @strawberrystepmom​ 🫡 it is very late… sorry kendy please dont fire me </3 (thank you for sharing this kendall!!! mwah!!)

i’m tagging @stellamancer​ @namodawrites​ @acerathia​ @lorelune​ @flamingblinglove​ and anyone else who wants to do this!!! (yes, seriously! if you’re reading this and you want to do this, do it and tag me because I want to see!!!!!)

template under the cut:

Keep reading

[reikoackerman]

Happy Birthday, Levi

Characters: Levi x Rei (me) feat. Ackerman Juniors and many friends

Genre: Modern!au

Warnings: SFW, fluffy. VERY VERY DISGUSTING AND SELF-INDULGENT PLEASE PROCEED WITH CAUTION. IT'S 4. 2K WORDS LONG LOL.

A/N: This is what I meant when I said @mrscommandersmith motivates me to write potentially embarrassing and indulgent things with regard to self-shipping. I can't believe you made me do this Mia 🙈 also @hashaneeee here's something else for you to scream about hahaha love you <3

It was that time of the year again. 

However, this year was extra special. Yes, I said the same to Levi last year, and I told him that last year was very memorable. Yet, this year, I find myself repeating the same thing again. 

Thrice a year, our house would be full of guests and loud laughter; Chinese New Year¹, Mid Autumn Festival², and Christmas eve. Levi’s friends obviously don’t celebrate Chinese New Year and Mid Autumn Festival, yet they still make it every single year without fail, enjoying the yearly hotpot during Chinese New Year and eating mooncakes with us during Mid Autumn.

On Christmas eve every year, we would host a Christmas dinner, partly to spend Christmas together, and also celebrate Levi’s birthday. This year, however, instead of us doing all the cooking, we’re doing a potluck instead. Levi was in the kitchen preparing the roast beef and the other dishes while I went to arrange the cutlery with a dinner set that we only use during this time of the year. 

As usual, Erwin and Mia arrived first with their dishes in tow along with their beautiful children. Erwin brought over homemade mulled wine made by his mother, and Mia baked many amazing pastries for us for dessert. Our three dogs excitedly ran to them and begged for head scratches while Erwin and Mia's children followed behind their parents.

“Aww, who are these handsome boys?” I cooed as Theodore, the oldest, and Isaac, the younger brother, came forward to greet me after removing their shoes. 

“Merry Christmas Aunty Rei!” The both of them called out in harmony. Theodore was the carbon copy of Erwin. He has his hair and his striking blue eyes. Isaac on the other hand was a perfect mix of Erwin and Mia. He has his mum’s face but his dad’s eyes. 

“Good boys. Uncle Levi’s in the kitchen.” I gestured to the kitchen and they ran in. I turned my attention to the toddler in the pram. 

“And hello there little Aria!” I reached my finger out and Aria gently grabbed it, giving me a toothless grin. She’s the youngest among their children, barely a year old. 

“Good to see you, Rei! Your skin looks fantastic.” Mia hugged me tightly as Erwin went to the kitchen to say hi to Levi. 

“Oh, really?” I blushed, hand touching my cheek. “Maybe because I’ve changed my moisturiser.” I giggled as I said hi to Erwin as well. 

“Jia Ling, say hi to Uncle Erwin and Aunty Mia!” I called out in Mandarin, and within seconds, a little pink figure with two low pigtails zoomed out of her room and straight into Erwin’s arms. 

“Hello, Renée, you look lovely today.” Erwin laughed while Mia stroked her cheek. 

“Uncle Erwin! Aunty Mia! Merry Christmas!” Renée, our five-year-old daughter cheerfully replied. Her grey eyes went straight to the paper bag in Mia’s hand, eyeing the contents. 

“Merry Christmas little one, I hope you like this gift from Uncle Erwin and I!” Renée took the bag with a loud ‘merci beaucoup!’ before asking to be let down. 

“Where’s Theodore gege³ and Isaac?” She questioned, her head turning around everywhere. I told her that they were in the kitchen with Levi and she ran there. I chuckled and turned to Mia again while Erwin pushed the pram to our living room. 

“Want to say hi to the twins?” Mia nodded excitedly and I led her to the master bedroom. The twins were up and crawling around in their cots. 

“I think I am a really bad friend because till now, I can’t tell which twin is which,” Mia commented as she smiled at the twins. 

“The one you’re carrying is Pierre, the older one. And then,” I gestured to the white giggling bundle in my arms, “this one’s Léon. You can tell the difference if you stare hard enough.” I brought Leon closer to Mia and she stared hard for a few moments. 

“Hmm…” Mia thought hard with a frown appearing. “Oh, I think I see it! Léon has a mole near his mouth like you.” I nodded as we exited the room with the twins in our arms. 

“You’re right! Leon has the same mole as I do. Also, Pierre has Levi’s eye shape while Léon has mine.” We let the twins down on the carpet in the living room where Erwin was trying to coax a crying Aria. It turned out that Aria peed in her diapers. Mia quickly brought out a new diaper and towel from her bag while Erwin swiftly removed the soiled one and wiped Aria clean. Soon, Aria was giggling again and joining the twins crawling around the dogs. 

“Erwin, you’re so much better at changing diapers than Levi,” I said, bringing out two glasses of water for the Smiths. Erwin shook his hand. 

“It’s nothing. It took me a while to grasp the art of diaper changing too.” We all laughed as Renée ran out of her room, telling me to call her when dinner’s ready because she’s going to go read with Theodore and Isaac. 

“Renée talks about Theo too often sometimes,” I commented while drinking some water. Erwin then joked and said that if Theodore and Renée hang out more, they’re going to fall in love and get married in the future. 

“I’m not letting my daughter marry your son, Eyebrows.” Levi frowned, bringing out the roast beef. “I don’t want to be your in-laws.” I smacked Levi’s butt and told him to be nice. Levi rolled his eyes as I followed him back to the kitchen, bringing out the dishes. 

“Are you doing okay?” Levi hugged me from behind as I sliced some garlic bread. 

“I’m fine, Levi. Don’t worry.” I turned to leave a soft peck on his cheek. “I’ll let you know if I’m feeling sick, okay?” I placed the bread in a basket and Levi turned me around, trapping me between him and the counter. 

“Remember, don’t drink the wine Erwin brought. Drink this cranberry juice instead,” Levi placed a bottle of cranberry juice on the counter. “Don’t eat too much of the fried food that Nanaba is bringing. Also, don’t touch the cheese board—” 

“Levi! Relax, amour.” I pat his cheek, pinching it afterwards. “Don’t worry so much, okay? Besides, it’s not the first time anyway. Just chill and enjoy your birthday celebration, hmm?” Kissing his lips, I brought the garlic bread out with Levi tailing behind me. 

As the sun slowly set, our house gradually got filled. Mike made a fantastic cheese board for us while Hange brought us a huge log cake. Nanaba also brought lots of delicious finger food like fried oysters, chicken nuggets, buffalo wings, cheese fries, and the like. Moblit bought all of us pizza and snacks while Farlan and Isabel made the roast turkey. Other than the roast beef, Levi and I also prepared French onion soup, tacos, as well as some Caesar salad. Everyone wished Levi a happy birthday and placed their presents for him underneath our Christmas tree. 

“Tch, there’s so much unhealthy food. I should have told them to bring more homemade food like—” 

“Hey, Mr Ackerman. What did I tell you about enjoying yourself today?” Levi and I were in our room and he was complaining about the food. I wanted to feed the twins before we ate, in case they start crying. I was holding Léon while Levi rubbed Pierre's back, getting him to burp. 

“But, you can’t eat the pizza Moblit brought. It’s all fat and sodium and you know it’s bad for you.” Levi placed a milk-drunk Pierre back in his cot once he burped. 

“A slice of pizza won’t hurt…” I passed Léon to Levi once he was done, and I went to change. I decided on a light pink dress which was slightly loose around the waist. Once Levi had Léon burp, he gently rocked Léon and placed him in the cot, and went to get changed too. Levi matched me and wore a light pink dress shirt and dark grey tapered trousers. 

“Remember. Stop eating anything that makes you feel sick. I made porridge already.” Levi eyed me from the mirror before stepping out of our bathroom. 

“Yes Sir!” I jokingly got into a salute and went out hand in hand with Levi to join our friends for dinner. 

While the children had their dinner at a small table in front of the television, the rest of us gathered by our dining table in the dining room. Our dining table could only fit six people and we had to add in extra seats to fit everyone. We had to squeeze a little, but everyone didn't mind. It was nice to see everyone gather and catch up on their lives. Everyone loved the roast turkey, and the children loved the pizza. Even Renée, who's a little picky with her food, asked for seconds. 

Dinner progressed through and I had to excuse myself a couple of times. It was either to coax the twins or because the dogs were making too much noise and I had to let them roam around in the backyard before they started to drive our guests nuts. However, there were a few times I had to go to the toilet. Levi kept throwing me nervous glances and followed me wherever I went. I wanted to tell Levi off for being annoying and to tell him to stop shadowing me, but thankfully he kept doing so. I had to go to the toilet to throw up because I ate a fried oyster and felt sick. Levi held my hair and rubbed my back soothingly as I hugged the toilet bowl, feeling nothing but nausea. 

“Are you sure you’re fine? You look really pale.” Levi handed me a towel before helping me up. 

“It’s nothing, love. We went through this before. It’s normal.” I gently patted my mouth with water before tidying up my hair. Levi sighed and looked at me, a look of concern plastered on his face. 

“I know. I know it’s normal. B-but, I just—I just can’t bear to see you like this. I—” 

“Levi Ackerman. Listen to me,” I cupped his cheeks, forcing him to face me. “Don’t let this ruin your birthday dinner, okay? Don’t worry. Also, I’m your wife. I’m stronger than you think” I chuckled, making sure my dress was prim and proper before leaving the toilet. 

“I will let you know if I’m feeling sick again, okay? I promise.” I reached out my pinky finger, assuring my worried husband. Levi relented and hooked pickies with me, and we went back to the dining table. 

“Are you okay, Rei?” Nanaba questioned after pouring herself some of Erwin’s homemade mulled wine. 

“Yeah, Nana, don’t worry. I’m fine. Just feeling a little under the weather.” I smiled, serving her and Moblit more soup. 

“Hey, Rei,” Mike called from across the table, “is the cheeseboard not up to your liking? You haven’t touched it one bit and now I’m sad.” I quickly looked at Levi, not knowing how to explain myself without giving myself away. 

“No dairy for Rei, she’s having a stomachache.” Levi curtly replied before eyeing me again, as though asking me for permission before he could take something off the cheese board. Levi knew how much I loved eating cheese and I knew he was worried that I would feel upset about not being able to eat it. I gave Levi a small smile and patted his thigh, and Levi took a slice of ham and some cheese.

Thankfully, I didn’t feel too sick afterwards and we managed to finish eating dinner without any more incidents. Our friends didn’t seem to catch on to anything either. Farlan and Moblit helped us clean up while the rest of them gathered in the living room to play with the children and to enjoy the desserts prepared by Hange and Mia. The twins seemed to steal all the limelight, and they enjoyed the attention on them too, especially Léon who gets overwhelmed by noise but is giggling and playing with his uncles and aunties. Once we did the gift exchange, everyone urged Levi to open his birthday presents. We’ve been hosting this celebration for Levi for years, yet his face still reddens with embarrassment when he was asked to stand up and open his gifts. Erwin and Mia gifted Levi a new shaver while Hange got him a pair of customised cufflinks. One had an ‘L’ while the other had an ‘R’.

“Well, it obviously stands for ‘Levi’ and ‘Rei’, but I thought that would help you differentiate between your left and right too.” Hange joked while drinking some mulled wine. Everyone laughed while Levi threw Hange a dirty look. Moblit got him a fountain pen engraved with his name while Nanaba bought Levi a set of car fragrances. Farlan and Isabel bought us a set of silky bathrobes and finally it was Mike’s present. It was the largest in size and everyone was curious to know what did Mike bring. Loosening the ribbon and opening the box, inside were a few children’s clothing, children’s storybooks, children’s sneakers, and also new collars for our dogs. Levi stared at Mike with a cocked brow while everyone else started laughing again. 

“So, your idea of a birthday present to me is getting gifts for my children and my dogs, and nothing for me?” Levi had his hands on his waist and looked annoyed. 

“What?” Mike retorted, “who said your birthday presents have to be something for you?” Levi rolled his eyes again but he had a small smile. 

“Fine, you’re not wrong,” Levi looked through the box, flipping through the books. “You better pray hard Renée likes these, and our kids too when they grow up.” As the presents unravelled, Farlan urged Levi to say a few words of thanks. Levi grimaced, silently looking at me asking for help. I simply sat on the armchair next to where Levi was standing, feeling jittery. 

“Uhh. You guys know I’m not an eloquent speaker. But, y-yeah. Thanks for sticking by me all these years, from the time I said I would never fall in love, until now that I am a father myself,” Levi took a good look at everyone before landing his eyes on me, and I gave him a wide smile. 

“Also, we have a special announcement to make.” Levi held out his hand and I stood next to him, unable to contain my excitement. Taking a deep breath, I played with my fingers while Levi’s hands went to my belly. Everyone was staring at us and I felt like throwing up again. 

“We’re expecting, again!” 

Cheers of laughter echoed around the room, and Mia and Isabel rushed forward to hug me. Erwin carried Pierre and Léon, and tickled them saying “well look, you two are going to be older brothers!”. I could also hear Mike telling Farlan “I knew it! It’s impossible for Rei to not eat anything from my cheese board!” in a loud voice. 

“So when is Ackerman number 4 due?” Mia questioned, her hand circling around the barely visible bump underneath my dress. 

“I’m about 10 weeks in, so maybe around June to July next year!” I excitedly told them.

“The both of you need to take a chill pill. I suspect you two are out to earn our money from red packets⁴.” Mike commented while taking another sip of wine. 

“Shut up, Mike, you love my kids. Also, you spoil them too much. Stop giving Renée sweets.” Levi threw a napkin towards Mike while accepting a one-armed hug from him. 

After our friends congratulated us and everyone finished their dessert, it was time for the party to end. Nanaba, Moblit, Hange, and Mike left together in Mike's car while Farlan and Isabel played with Renée while waiting for their taxi. Once their taxi was here, Renée bid them goodnight and went back to her room. Erwin and Mia left with their kids earlier as it was Aria's time to sleep. Renée had a little pout on her face when they left, eagerly telling Mia that she wants to go over to their place soon. 

Once our friends left, Levi went to wash the dishes while I got the dogs to sleep. Pierre and Léon were already in dreamland, sleeping soundly in their cots. I went to check on Renée and she was still up, drawing something on her little desk. 

“Jia Ling, it’s time for bed,” I chimed, knocking on her door. 

“Five more minutes, Mama, I want to finish this and give it to Papa!” I took a peep and Renée was colouring a birthday card for Levi. It was really cute, Levi and I were in the middle of the picture, and she even drew a party hat on his head. Renée was on my left, and the boys were on Levi’s right. She even drew the dogs in their kernels. 

“The card is really pretty. Papa will be very happy. But do you know what will make Papa happier?” Renée put down the crayon and stared at me. “Papa would be happy if he sees his princess clean and ready for bed.” Renée listened immediately and went to the toilet. She stood on her stool and brushed her teeth together with me before changing into her pyjamas. As she climbed into her bed, I tucked her under her blanket and sat down, getting ready to read her a nighttime story. Levi came in after seeing her night light still on. 

“Ma chérie, why are you still awake?” Sitting on Renée’s bed, Levi placed his arm on my shoulder. 

“Papa! I wanted to give you this—” she excitedly jumped out of bed to give Levi the card. Levi took it with both hands and had a wide smile on his face. 

“Thank you, darling. Papa loves it.” Levi caressed her cheek before lifting her blanket, coaxing her to get in. “You’re going to be a big sister again, Renée, and big sisters need to set a good example to their siblings. You’re 20 minutes past your bedtime.” Renée’s eyes widened after hearing what Levi said and visibly sulked. 

“I don’t want to be a big sister again!” Renée pouted, staring at my belly. “Is it a boy again, Mama? I don’t want another brother! Pierre and Léon are so annoying! I don’t want another brother!!” Renée whined and looked at the both of us. “I want a sister! Mama, can I have a sister? We can share our toys and clothes! Aria and come play with us too. And we can fight with Pierre and Léon!” 

“Language, Jia Ling.” I frowned, narrowing my eyes. Of all our children, Renée resembled Levi the most, both in their looks and their temper. Renée giggled and lay down on her pillow. 

“Bonne nuit, Papa! Bonne nuit, Mama! I don’t need a bedtime story tonight.” Renée pecked our cheeks and turned to her side, hugging her big stuffed bear. Levi switched off her night light as I made my way back to our room. Checking on the boys, they were still soundly asleep. I changed into my pyjamas and waited for Levi to join me. Placing my palm on my belly, I couldn’t wait to give Levi his birthday present. 

“Ready for bed, mon cœur?” Levi smiled as he climbed onto the bed, opening his arms to pull me in. I gladly joined him, enjoying the comfortable silence. Levi pushed me upwards after a while and massaged my shoulders. “Are you tired? You’ve done a lot today.” 

“I’m fine amour, don’t worry so much. Besides, you’ve helped a lot too,” I turned towards him, toying with my wedding ring. 

“Have you taken those vitamins? Still feeling nausea? Any leg cramps?” Levi held my hand, fingers gently caressing mine. 

“Yes I have, I’ve taken them already. Also, no I’m not feeling sick and I’m not having leg cramps. Oh before I forget, are you ready for your present?” I smiled, feeling the excitement bubble deep within. 

“You didn’t have to, having you and the kids by my side is good enough.” Levi leaned on the bedrest as I went to take a box from the drawer. Giving it to Levi, I leaned in and gave him a peck on his cheek. Levi looked at me before staring at the box. He shook it, hearing some noise inside. I urged him to open it, and Levi removed the ribbon from the box and took off the lid. He remained silent for a long time and stared at the contents teary-eyed. 

“I-is that—” 

“Yes, amour, it is.” 

Inside the box was a photo of an ultrasound scan, decorated with lots of pink flowers around. The foetus in the ultrasound looked no bigger than an apricot. On the photo was ‘Hi Papa, I can’t wait to meet you ♡’ written in black ink. Levi's thumb gently caressed the photo with a look of longing. “When did you take this?” Levi looked bewildered. 

“During my appointment with the gynae earlier this month, the one your mum accompanied me to,” I took Levi’s hand and placed it on my tiny bump. I took a nervous gulp, grabbing Levi’s hand tighter. Levi’s eyes were on me now. He knows what’s coming, and I know he’s very excited as well. 

“We’re having another girl.” 

Levi let out a sob before hugging me tight. I returned the hug, feeling tears in my eyes too. Levi and I remained like this for a few minutes, our sobbing echoing around the room. 

“Another princess? Really?” Levi released the hug and stroked my belly again. 

“Yes, Levi, another girl. Renée’s going to be so happy.”

“Thank you, mon cœur⁵, for this amazing present,” Kissing my forehead, Levi pulled me to his side again as we lay down on the bed. “This is the best birthday ever.” I giggled, punching him playfully in the shoulder. 

“You said the same thing last year when the boys were only a few months old,” I reached over to turn off the table lamp, pulling the blankets higher. 

“No, this year is really the best. I can’t wait to meet our daughter already.”

“This time next year, she’ll be in your arms sleeping soundly.” I smiled, staring at Levi. The moonlight shone through our windows, gently illuminating his features. 

“I hope she looks like you. Renée resembles me too much.” Levi smiled, stroking my cheek. 

“She can look like me, but she better have your eyes. Mine are boring.” I pouted, leaning closer to Levi. 

“Nonsense. Look at Léon. He has your eyes but my irises. And I know our princess number two will too.” As Levi and I continued on our silly little banter over who our daughter should look like, Léon suddenly started crying. Levi jumped out of bed and quickly carried Léon, checking his diapers. Within seconds, Pierre started crying too and I followed suit, trying to coax Pierre. 

“I think he’s hungry,” Levi said after checking Leon's diapers. Pierre's diapers were clean too. 

“I guess they are hungry.” I laughed and handed Pierre over to Levi while I quickly made two bottles of milk. The twins kept crying while in Levi’s arms. Once I was done, I took Pierre back from Levi and handed him a bottle. Pierre stopped crying once he had his milk, and thankfully Léon stopped crying too. Once the twins finished their milk, we gently rocked them to sleep again and placed them back in their cots. 

“Are you ready to face all these again next year once our princess is born?” I asked Levi, giggling as I went to wash the milk bottles. Levi hugged me from behind and rested his head on my shoulder. Pressing a soft kiss to my cheek, Levi’s hand went to stroke the tiny bump again. 

“Even with three children, I don’t think I ever will be. Heck, I don’t think I’m that great of a father myself,” Levi turned me around and trapped me against the counter again. He seems to really like doing this recently, though I’m not complaining at all. “But for you, for the kids, and for this little one, I’ll always do my best.” I locked eyes with Levi and suddenly felt an overwhelming urge to cry. I don’t know what good deeds I did in my past life to deserve someone like Levi. Sometimes it still feels so surreal that he’s mine. It must be the hormones going haywire because tears started falling before I even knew it. Levi let out a sigh and a low laughter followed behind. 

“I have to admit, I’m not ready for your weird food cravings and crying episodes again, that’s for sure.” I laughed while weeping and Levi pulled me into a hug and slowly patted my back soothingly. Once I had calmed down, Levi wiped the tears on my cheek and gave me a smile, and we made our way back to our bedroom, making sure not to wake the twins up. Making ourselves comfortable under the blankets, Levi pulled close to him, laying my head on his chest and draped his arm around my waist. Our lips met in a soft kiss and Levi whispered “goodnight, mon cœur”. Just then, the clock on the nightstand let out a tiny ‘beep’, and it was exactly midnight. I snuggled closer to Levi, hearing the steady pulse of his heart. 

“Happy birthday, Levi.”

1: Chinese New Year - Occurs on the 1st day to the 15th of the first Lunar month, usually in January or February. The biggest holiday for Chinese. Also known as Lunar New Year and observed by the Vietnamese (Tết Nguyên Đán), Koreans (설날 seolnal), Japanese (正月 shōgetsu) etc.

2: Mid Autumn Festival - Occurs on the 15th day of the eighth Lunar month, usually in September. The second biggest holiday for Chinese. Also observed by the Vietnamese, Koreans (추석 chuseok), Japanese (月見 tsukimi) etc.

3: Gege (哥哥) - Older brother in Chinese. Can also be used on guys older than you.

4: Red packets (红包 hongbao) - Given by married elders/couples to children/unmarried individuals during Chinese New Year. Red packets contain money and it signifies blessings and good fortune from the elders to the younger ones. Children usually pay respects to the elders with a pair of Mandarin oranges, and usually wish auspicious messages to the elders. The red packets are then given in return.

It is also common for children to give red packets to their parents and grandparents to wish them good luck, health and happiness in the new year.

5: Mon cœur - 'My heart' in French. A special nickname I hold close to my heart because my Chinese name has the character for 'heart (心 xin)' in it 🥰

[reikoackerman]

Birthdays

Characters: Levi x Rei (me) feat. Ackerman Juniors and Mama Kuchel

Genre: Modern!au

Warnings: SFW, fluff. Also very self-indulgent as heck hehe.

Word count: 2.8k

A/N: Happy birthday to the husband, the one and only Levi Ackerman 💚 here's my second birthday fic for him!!! There are a few references to my selfship writing and one-shot, and I'll link them here in case anyone is interested in reading them hehe.

And knowing me... there's some kind of humour and suggestive content lol but it's still sfw in general hehe please enjoy!!!

Happy birthday, Levi (Levi x Rei feat. Ackerman Juniors and friends, SFW)

Food play with Levi (Levi x fem!reader, NSFW)

Dance with me (Levi x Rei, SFW with suggestive ending)

Today was Levi's birthday, and the kids, well—Renée—were so excited. Not only was it Levi's birthday, it was also Christmas, meaning that not only their Papa gets presents, they will be getting them too. 

Every year, we would host a birthday dinner at our place with Levi's friends, but this year, we decided to keep it small. With Charlotte's arrival, we just really didn't have the time and ability to host a large birthday dinner and to watch over our four children simultaneously. Levi was totally fine with the idea, happy even, when I told him we weren't asking our friends over this year. 

"Well thank fucking goodness. I never really enjoyed it much anyway," Levi complained to me one night while I was feeding Charlotte, "there's too much noise and too much food." 

"They all mean well, you know. We see Erwin and Mia pretty often, and Farlan and Isabel drop by once every few days too," I gently rubbed Charlotte's back to get her to burp before wearing my pyjamas properly, "but we literally only see Mike, Hange, Moblit, and Nanaba once a year." Walking to Charlotte's cot, I slowly coaxed her to sleep while Levi went to iron his clothes for work tomorrow. 

"I know, but really, I would definitely choose a simple dinner rather than a huge gathering," Levi paused for a short while before letting out a sigh, "remember last year's? When we did that potluck? You were three months pregnant and you had to plan and prepare so many things on top of everything else and you had to pretend you weren't carrying a baby in you and—"

"Shhh, amour," frowning when Levi started nagging, "you're going to wake our angel up." Levi stared at me and let out another sigh before continuing to iron his trousers. Once Charlotte started yawning and fell asleep, I placed her in her cot and hurried over to Levi's side. 

"We'll do a simple dinner this year. Just you and I with the kids and Maman. Okay?" Levi gave me a nod and pecked my cheek before hanging his clothes. 

"Mm. You know I'll love anything you plan and prepare, mon coeur," Levi and I went to wash up and prepare for bed, fluffing the pillows and setting our alarm for the next morning, "can't wait for that day." And with that, I started planning and preparing for Levi's birthday dinner together with my mother-in-law. 

Since Levi and I didn't have to work on Christmas, we went out to the shopping mall at noon while Maman stayed home with the kids to decorate the house and prepare some of the food. Levi and I had a nice time walking along the streets and admiring the sparkling and pretty Christmas decorations outside of the shopping malls. We went to collect the roast turkey and meat I pre-ordered from the grocery store, and we also got some wine and cheese for our cheese board too. Levi even bought jelly beans—Renée's favourite sweet treat. He also bought the boys baby biscuits too.

"You're in a good mood huh, amour," I teased Levi as he took a few bags of tortilla chips and added them into the trolley, "you never liked letting the kids eat anything sweet. You don't even like it when I'm snacking." Levi merely shrugged and walked on ahead. We got a few more things too; some blueberries and strawberries, oatmeal, milk, apples, and honey. We went to the bakery to collect Levi's birthday cakes too. Levi doesn't know yet, but this year, I got him a small dark chocolate fudge cake with 75% cacao, just the bitterness we both loved. It was for the both of us only since we both love dark chocolate. We also got another chocolate banana cake that was meant to be eaten together with the kids and Maman. Once our chores were done, we made our way home. 

Opening the door, we were greeted by the fragrant smell of mushroom soup and truffle fries. We quickly greeted Maman who was in the kitchen and we changed and helped out too. Levi was arranging and preparing the cheese board while I watched over the kids. Before we knew it, it was already 6pm and all the food was ready. I went to feed Charlotte while Levi was preparing the dinner table. As he was helping the boys into their baby seats, everyone was ready and seated by the time I was done feeding Charlotte. 

"Okay, let's eat." Levi smiled and we all started digging into the wonderful dinner prepared by my amazing mother-in-law.

"Mmm," I hummed in delight after eating the truffle fries, "Maman this is absolutely delicious! It's so much nicer than the ones Levi and I had in restaurants." Maman gave us a pleased look.

"Oh, it's nothing, ma douce, I was just testing out your air fryer and it's really good." I giggled and fed Pierre his potatoes and broccoli. He was playing with his food again and I had to stop him before he started throwing carrot sticks into the mushroom soup. Levi was having no issues with Léon who ate everything obediently. He even wanted more chicken cubes and gave us a grin when Pierre was chewing on the broccoli stalk. 

The roast turkey from the supermarket was really fragrant and tasty as well, and the cheese board was really good too. The cheese complimented our wine perfectly, and Renée wanted to be cheeky and have a sip of red wine, to which Levi vehemently denied her from doing so. The tofu salad Maman made was spicy and delicious too. We gave Renée a little bit of the salad to try, and she handled the spice surprisingly well. Levi and Maman were amazed.

"Good girl, ma chérie, you have inherited my superior genes," I laughed as I added more chilli sauce to my tofu salad, "Mama will bring you to eat tom yum with me when you're older." Renée happily laughed and started eating more potatoes. 

Once we were all done, I told Levi to clear and wash the dishes while I went to prepare the cake and candles. Renée went to change into another dress as well. She also took out a party hat from her room and opened up her piano, sitting on the bench and waited for Levi to return. Maman was standing by the light switch while I lit the candles. As soon as Maman gave the signal, she switched off the lights and Renée began playing Levi a birthday song while we sang along. Levi jumped when all he saw was darkness, but that look of confusion was soon replaced with a gentle smile once he saw me holding the cake. 

"Happy birthday, Papa!" Renée happily cheered once we were done singing Levi his birthday song. She ran towards him with the party hat. Once Levi took his seat, Maman switched on the lights and Renée put the hat on Levi's head. I quickly brought the camera over, snapping a few photos of Levi with his birthday cake before the candles melted. 

"Make a wish Papa, and then you can get your present!" Levi obliged and listened to his princess before closing his eyes, pressing his palms together for a few seconds before blowing out the candles. As the candles extinguished, Renée gave Levi her present.

"I made this during my art and craft lesson in school, Papa!" Renée chimed. They were learning about textures in kindergarten and Renée made Levi a birthday card with alphabet pasta, cotton wool, ice cream sticks, old cloth, straws, buttons and the like. Renée also sprinkled glitter over the card, making it really sparkly. Levi took the card with a huge smile on his face. 

"It's beautiful, ma chérie. Thank you."

Next, it was my mother-in-law's gift. Aunty Kuchel took out a few knitted sweaters from a large bag and handed them over to us as well as the kids. Charlotte on the other hand received a beautiful anklet with her Chinese name engraved on a little gold plate. We promised Aunty Kuchel that we would put it on Charlotte when she's a little older. Both mine and Levi's sweaters had a reindeer's face while Renée's and the twins' sweaters had little baby reindeers. 

"Cute," Levi sniggered, putting it on before Aunty Kuchel forced the sweater on him, "must've taken you a long time to finish them, Maman." Aunty Kuchel waved her hand and said it was no big deal. Levi turned around and looked at me expectantly.

"Well, I have two presents for you, but you're only getting one for now," I laughed and walked into our room, coming out with a small box in my hand. I passed it to Levi and he untied the ribbon. Opening the box, Levi looked at me and smiled. I got him a mechanical watch that he'd been eyeing for the longest time. "Like it?"

"Love it," Levi kissed me on the cheek, "you sneaky brat, you bought it without me realising?" Levi took the watch out and put it on his wrist. The colour and design fit him perfectly, and the watch really suited him. Levi took my hand and gave me a light squeeze before taking the watch out and keeping it safely inside the box again. It was time for everyone to have the chocolate banana cake. Picking out the candles, I started to slice the cake for everyone, giving Levi a huge slice. Renée and Maman had their own plate of cake while I fed the twins. Everyone marvelled at how good the cake was, even our princess who was an extremely picky eater. 

Soon, it was time for the Christmas presents. Renée was jumping excitedly, wondering what we got her this year. Levi told Renée to close her eyes. When she opened them, I had a Teddy bear wearing a pink leotard and tutu in my arms. Renée squealed with happiness as she took the stuffed bear from me, thanking us loudly. Levi and I bought Pierre and Léon a huge Shinkansen toy set with railway tracks and new storybooks as well. Then, Levi went to the kitchen and took out a paper bag and he passed it to Aunty Kuchel. She took out the contents inside and gave us a smile. Levi and I got her the Choya Gold Edition because we knew how much she liked drinking umeshu. The box was a beautiful golden yellow decorated with ume flowers, and Aunty Kuchel told us she couldn't wait to try it at home. Once the presents were all given, we all sat by the couch in the living room and finished the remainder of the cake together. 

After a long day, the boys were clean and tugged in their cots. Renée was asleep as well. Maman said she was going out to have drinks with her friends, and Levi and I had the house and time to ourselves. Levi was sitting at the bar counter. He was watching me while I made some simple chocolate fondue in the kitchen. The strawberries and marshmallows were already placed on a plate. 

"You and Maman outdid yourselves today, mon cœur," Levi smiled as I brought the melted chocolate, strawberries, and marshmallows over to the bar counter, "thank you." 

"All I did was order the food. Maman did everything this year." I chuckled as I took out the dark chocolate fudge cake from the fridge. Levi looked surprised. As I took the cake out of the box, Levi smiled seeing the words 'joyeux anniversaire mon amour' written with strawberry cream. 

"So this is my second present?" 

"Mm-hmm," taking the knife, I sliced a large piece of cake and placed it on a plate for Levi, "I ordered it the moment you told me to plan for your birthday since this cake always sells out." Using my finger, I scooped the chocolate fudge stuck on the knife and licked it off. 

"Mmm, delicious," I sliced another cake for myself and dipped a strawberry into the melted chocolate, "c'mon, amour, eat it before the fudge melts." Eating the chocolate-coated strawberry, Levi kept eyeing me with a frown instead of eating the cake. 

"Stop doing it." Levi suddenly snapped as I ate the strawberry with the cake.

"Stop what?" 

"Why do you always use the same old tricks?" 

"What?" I sounded a little more impatient as I dipped a strawberry into the chocolate and stuck it on Levi's slice of cake. Levi suddenly grabbed my arm and pulled me towards him, kissing me full on the lips as he had another hand in my hair, cupping my head and bringing me even closer. Levi sucked my lower lip harshly and broke the kiss, his hand was still in my hair. 

"This. Enticing me using the same old shit, Reiko Ackerman…" Levi's voice was a tone lower than usual as he whispered, looking at my now-swollen lips, "strawberries and chocolate again? Stop seducing me like this." I gave Levi a sultry smile before breaking our eye contact. 

"Well, learn to control yourself then, Levi Ackerman," it was my turn to tease Levi as I kept the remaining cake in the fridge and walked him towards our living room. Levi gave me a confused look. "Remember your birthday seven years ago, when we just got married and moved in here?" Levi and I looked at each other as I locked my hands behind his neck while Levi's arms were around my waist. 

"Yeah, of course. We were slow dancing, just like what we're doing now." Levi rubbed his nose against mine and closed his eyes. 

"And you suddenly blurted out saying you wanted us to be parents to human babies," I laughed a little louder, "and I honestly can't believe you actually said it so bluntly, amour." Levi smiled at the memory. 

"I didn't blurt it out 'suddenly'. Everything was leading up to it nicely." Levi commented and I chuckled, pulling Levi closer to me. It seemed so long ago, yet it felt so close to our hearts as well. We looked each other in the eye, slowly dancing around in circles. Has it really been seven years since we got married? Where did all the time go?

"Look at us now, seven years later," Levi pressed a chaste kiss to my forehead, "who would have thought we would have so many kids." 

"Why, having second thoughts?" 

"Tch, 'course not, mon cœur," Levi rolled his eyes again, "I wouldn't give this up for anything. You, Renée, the boys, and Charlotte. You and our children are the best thing that happened to me." Levi gave me another smile as we swayed in synchronised steps. 

"You say the same thing every year." I laughed, recalling what Levi told me on his birthday last year.

"It's the truth." The both of us looked at each other as we stopped in our steps. After a few moments, Levi tightened his hold around me and hugged me close, resting his chin comfortably on my shoulder. We remained in each other's embrace. Suddenly, a wave of emotions started to overwhelm me as I thought about how far Levi and I had come. Damn it, Rei! This isn't the time to get sentimental. I could hear Levi sniffle his nose a little, and I knew he was thinking the same. I quickly blinked away the tears that were dotting my lashline and kissed Levi's cheek. 

"Come on now, amour, let's finish up your birthday cake," I quickly wiped my eyes and gave Levi a small smile, "and then maybe I might give you a third present later." I took Levi's hand and dragged him back into the kitchen before taking out the cake from the fridge again.

"Urgh, the fondue hardened." I complained, bringing the pot to the stove and turning it on. 

"Leave it, mon cœur, we'll just have the cake."

"I want to eat it with the strawberries, amour. Don't waste it." 

"Leave it. Or I'll do something else with the chocolate." I cocked my eyebrow and looked at Levi as he smirked. Coming closer, he switched off the stove and trapped me between his body and the kitchen counter. Levi reached a hand up to my face and slowly stroked my cheek. "So unless you want to smell like chocolate, leave it." I couldn't control my laughter anymore after hearing Levi. 

"Oh my god, amour! Control yourself, you old man," pressing a soft kiss to his lips, I chuckled as I placed my hand on top of his, "you're 35, maintain yourself. We're not having Ackerman number five." Levi rolled his eyes and pulled me towards the bar counter. 

"Which is why I said to leave the fondue and let me enjoy the cake with you, hmm?" Taking his seat, Levi made me sit on his lap and he fed me a slice of cake. I did the same for him as well, showering him with kisses every time I fed him a mouthful of cake. Needless to say, we did end up having and enjoying the chocolate fondue, and of course, the strawberries didn't go to waste. 

[reikoackerman]

Ackerman Juniors

Warning: Extremely self-indulgent, proceed with caution. Mentions of the Vets, Farlan, and Isabel.

Yes, I'm here to introduce Levi and I's four precious children ^^ our kids' names are a nice mix of French, Hebrew, Chinese, and Japanese, so I hope you all are interested to know more about them hehe.

Why these languages, you ask? Because Levi is canonically French, 'Levi' is a Hebrew name, my ethnicity is Chinese, and I go by a Japanese name <3

Our daughters:

Renée Naomi Ackerman 秋山 佳玲

Renée (French) - Reborn

Naomi (Hebrew) - Pleasant one, above all, beauty

佳玲 (Jia Ling) - 佳 (Jia) beautiful; 玲 (ling) tinkling

Birthday: 16 September 2016 (Virgo, Year of the Monkey)

MBTI: ISTJ

Likes: Teddy bears, sweet stuff, dresses

Dislikes: Bugs, getting dirty, anything bitter

Hobbies: Dancing ballet, drawing.

Renée is our first born, and she's Levi's favourite child (yes, he is playing favouritism here). Renée looks a lot like Levi, and in turn, she looks like the mini version of her paternal grandma Kuchel as well. Renée's temperament is very similar to Levi. She has fair skin, long black hair that's a little wavy, and light grey eyes. She has a mole on her right cheek like me.

Although she looks and behaves a lot like Levi, her hobbies and interests are similar to mine. Renée showed talent in dancing when she was young, and she picked up dancing and piano just like me. Renée also hates getting her hands dirty, but she enjoys helping me when I'm tending to our garden. Renée is also more soft-spoken, aloof, and likes doing things on her own. Renée also likes to spend time with her godma Aunty Mia.

Charlotte Rachel Ackerman 秋山 佳琪

Charlotte (French) - Strong and free

Rachel (Hebrew) - Ewe

佳琪 (Jia Qi) - 佳 (Jia) beautiful; 琪 (Qi) fine jade

Birthday: 04 July 2022 (Cancer, Year of the Tiger)

MBTI: ESFP

Likes: Hands-on activities, sleeping, playing with Renée's hair

Dislikes: Spiders, being bossed around, sweet stuff

Hobbies: Origami, hairstyling

Charlotte is our baby girl, and she's the youngest of all the Ackerman juniors. Charlotte is active, outgoing, and friendly; the complete opposite of her older sister. Charlotte has light grey eyes and fair skin, but she looks more like me compared to Levi. Charlotte likes to keep her hair up in a ponytail, and she also has a mole on her right jaw like me.

Charlotte is very active and likes moving around. She is also really good with things that involve her hands, like arts and crafts, hairstyling, pottery/playing with clay, origami, and building toy models. However, she can be a little impatient, and cannot stay still for too long. Charlotte loves playing with Renée's hair because it's long and wavy. She loves to practise tying different braids and updos on her older sister. Charlotte also loves her Aunty Isabel a lot because she always buys her lots of snacks and origami books.

Our twin sons:

(Top) Pierre Aaron Ackerman 秋山 子竣

Pierre (French) - Strong and solid like a rock

Aaron (Hebrew) - Forest, strength, high mountain, inspired

子竣 (Zi Jun) - 子 (Zi) child/son; 竣 (Jun) complete

MBTI: ENTP

Likes: Sports, staying up late, race cars

Dislikes: Cucumber and beans, math, routines

Hobbies: Playing basketball, swimming

(Bottom) Léon Nathan Ackerman 秋山 子豪

Léon (French) - Lion

Nathan (Hebrew) - Gift from God

子豪 (Zi Hao) - 子 (Zi) child/son; 豪 (Hao) pride

MBTI: INFP

Likes: Blueberries, animals, being alone

Dislikes: Strangers, loud noises, crowds

Hobbies: Reading, solving puzzles

Birthdays: 03 August 2020 (Leo, Year of the Rat)

Pierre and Léon are our twin boys, and they're our middle children! They are identical twins, but they have very slight differences. Pierre has Levi's eye shape, while Léon has mine. Also, Léon has a mole on his right jaw just like me.

Pierre is also taller than Léon because he likes to play basketball. Pierre is also the more outgoing and active twin, while Léon is more passive and introverted. Pierre loves meeting new people and making new friends, while Léon prefers a small group of close friends. As Léon is more soft-spoken, Pierre used to bully him a lot when they were young, until Levi got so angry that he banned Pierre from playing with Léon until he knew how to love his younger twin.

The twins have very different personalities and temperament as well, so it's not that hard to tell them apart when they're older.

Pierre loves running around, and he loves playing sports. Pierre also asked his Uncle Farlan to teach him how to play baseball. Whenever Levi's friends come over, Pierre sticks to Mike and Farlan, and the three of them (and sometimes Charlotte) play basketball together.

Léon is Pierre's opposite, and he prefers doing things alone. Léon likes to read and do jigsaw puzzles, sudoku, and other kinds of puzzles. Léon asked Levi to teach him how to play chess, but since Levi had no clue at all, Léon went to his godpa Uncle Erwin for help. Léon also likes Hange a lot, and always asks them lots of questions whenever they're here visiting.

[reikoackerman]

Off Days with Levi (iii)

Characters: Levi x Rei (me)

Genre: Modern!au

Warnings: SFW, fluff. Extremely self-indulgent. Does not follow present timeline (aka there are no Ackerman Juniors, just Levi and I with our three dogs and two rabbits XD). Mentions of a FPS game.

A/N: I was doing a clay mask at 5pm and this stupid idea just came into my head I am sorry. Also..... I might write a continuation to this.......... hahaha.

It was a lazy afternoon, and Levi and I had nothing to do. We've cleaned the house, done the laundry, and even cleaned the dogs and changed the hay for the rabbits' cages. It was also raining heavily and we couldn't go out as well.

Levi was in his study room, playing CounterStrike with Erwin, Mike, and Moblit. I would usually join them during their games, but I suck at playing first-person shooter games and they managed to get Moblit to substitute me.

Rolling around in bed, I was scrolling through Instagram and I came across an advertisement about sheet masks. Just then, I had an idea. I went to my drawer and searched for a tub of clay mask that my cousin bought from Sydney. I excitedly clipped my fringe up with my Hello Kitty hair clips and went to the toilet, putting on the clay mask.

Returning back, I saw Levi lying on the bed. I didn't know his game ended so soon. Levi saw me returning and jumped.

"What the fuck is this greyish green shit on your face?"

"It's a clay mask, amour. The one I'm doing is supposedly good for moisturising my skin." I lay my head on Levi's chest, looking up to see what he was reading on his phone. It was a walkthrough on how to clear a certain chapter in his game.

"I know something else than can mosturise your skin better than this gross-smelling thing. It probably smells better too." Levi smirked and I rolled my eyes, hitting his thigh.

"No, Levi, I am not putting your cum on my face. Also, you should do it too. Your skin is looking kinda meh recently." I sat up right and went back to my drawer, fishing out another tub of clay mask. It was bluish unlike mine. I also took out a fluffy white headband with rabbit ears. Going back to the bed, I pulled Levi up and he complained his way from the room to the toilet.

I forced him to sit down on the toilet seat and made him wear the headband while I applied the clay mask on him.

"This is supposed to help your skin become glowy," I giggled. Levi looked like someone from the Avatar movie instead, his grey eyes and bluish skin making him look like an alien.

"And how long do I have to put this shit on my face? I want to continue gaming. We were taking a break and Moblit and I are about to kick Erwin and Mike's ass." Levi grumbled and wrinkled his nose again.

"Until the clay dries," I dragged Levi back to the bed, "and in this shitty weather, maybe 25 to 30 minutes. Also, no headphones during gaming. You're going to squash my rabbit headband." Levi groaned. I pulled him back to the room and he sat down on the chair, pulling out the wires of his headphones unwillingly.

Soon, the four of them were back online and continued playing their game. It was funny watching Levi, because there were a lot of times where he wanted to scratch his face, but he resisted the urge to do so because he didn't want to dirty his hands. I sneakily took a photo of Levi's face and sent it into my group chat with Erwin's, Mike's, and Moblit's spouses, giggling because I was anticipating their response. Levi gave me the side eye when he saw what I was doing, but he couldn't say anything because the microphone was on.

"Tch, that was easy," Levi muttered after 30 minutes. His game ended and they were all taking a break again. "can I wash this stupid thing off now?" I giggled and nodded, bringing Levi to the toilet, I helped him to wash off the clay mask and as he dried his face with his towel, he kept looking into the mirror. I sniggered and washed the mask off my face. My husband can be so vain sometimes.

"I told you, this will help your skin become glowy," laughing, I dried my face and did my skin care, "anyway, I'm not done with you yet, amour." Levi rolled his eyes again.

"What kind of weird shit are you going to put on my face again?" I gave him a small smile.

"I'm going to give you a facial tonight." Levi rolled his eyes.

"A what?"

"A facial, amour. It's good for your skin. You're going to love it, and you're going to thank me for it."

Levi continued to look at his face in the mirror, touching his jaw. His skin was indeed looking a little dry and dull. He looked at me while I was putting on my moisturiser. When I turned to look at him, Levi gave me a small smile.

"... okay."

"Yay!" I flung my arms around Levi, giving him a hug. "You're going to love it, really. And I promise you, you're going to ask me to do it again for you next time."

"We'll see." Levi followed me out of the toilet and we went back into the room. Levi took his phone and after a while he frowned. "What the fuck?" I peeped over his shoulder and laughed. Erwin sent him a message saying "nice mask" along with the photo I took of him. Erwin's wife, Mia, must have showed him the photo I sent in our chat. Mike replied saying "didn't know you were this vain, bro." and Moblit sent a laughing emoji in their chat. Levi rolled his eyes.

"Aww don't worry, they're just jealous," I joked, earning a flick to my forehead. Levi climbed onto the bed and pulled me into his embrace.

"Mon cœur." Levi spoke after keeping silent for a while. I gave a small hum in response. "Do that facial for me tonight." I laughed hearing him.

"Why, can't wait to show off to them?" I chuckled.

"Yeah, I'm going to make them jealous that my wife can do this for me." He sniggered and pulled me tighter into his embrace. We cuddled for a while more before Levi pushed himself off the bed. They were about to play their next round. "And for now, Moblit and I are going to kick their asses again."

As Levi continued playing his game, I couldn't maintain my excitement. In my head, I was already thinking of the skincare products I was going to use on Levi tonight, and how nice his skin is going to look after the facial. I couldn't wait for tonight to come faster.

[reikoackerman]

Our happy little family

Characters: Levi x Rei (me)

Genre: Modern!au

Warnings: SFW, fluffy. Mentions of childbirth and everything kinda bloody and gross. Also very very VERY self-indulgent. Block the tags #levi x rei and #reivi to refrain from cringing. Also, I cried happy tears writing this, so I hope you all can happy cry together with me 🥺

Word count: 6k I'm very fucking sorry lol

A/N: Yes lol the day is here. Finally, you all will know the name of the last Ackerman Junior ~ ^_^ I'm tagging the loml @mrscommandersmith just because <3

Also I've obviously not given birth before so there might be some inconsistencies hahaha I'm sorry and do not mind me :') I tried not to talk too much about medical terminologies so, bear with me and enjoy the story hehe.

[03 July 2022]

It's here.

Again.

Once every 15 minutes, I keep feeling that annoying pain in my abdomen, as though I was having a very very bad cramp. Breathe in, breathe out. Calm down, Rei. You got this. I told myself. I turned to Levi who was sleeping peacefully next to me, his breathing slow and deep, a contrast to my own ragged and harsh panting. Clutching on to my watch tight, I looked at the seconds ticking by, counting till the contraction subsided.

Thirty seconds later, the cramps were gone. I quickly noted it down in my phone.

Is today the day? I wondered. Hange told us that our little princess would be due any time during the first week of July, and Levi and I have been like a bundle of nerves since then. Levi already prepared the overnight bag last week and also took the week off work, ready to drive us to the hospital whenever. I quickly got up and washed my face, making my way back to the bed before I started contracting again.

Fifteen minutes passed, and the contraction came back again stronger. Out of instinct, I grabbed Levi's hand hard, and he suddenly jumped awake.

"Mon cœur—" Levi let out a yawn mid-sentence. "What's wrong?" The sleepiness was still evident in Levi's voice. He briefly pushed himself up and saw my face covered in a light sheen of perspiration.

"L-Levi, I th-think, I think it's—" I grabbed Levi's hand tight again and closed my eyes before feeling the cramps subside. I slowly let out a long breath before looking at my husband. "I've been keeping track for the past 45 minutes. The contractions are coming at a regular interval." Levi's eyes widened as he wiped my perspiration away.

"I-I think our little princess is arriving today." I placed my free hand on my bump and gave Levi a shaky smile. Levi scrambled out of bed and went to wash up, calling his mother to meet at the hospital. I tried pushing myself up and poured myself a glass of water, dropping Mia a text to tell her what was happening. It was close to midnight, and I didn't want to wake her up since she had work tomorrow. Before my cramps came back, I quickly called Isabel as well, telling her and Farlan to come over and babysit the kids and our fur babies. I knew Levi would call Farlan and tell him the same thing too; they already have the spare keys to our house. Knowing Levi, he would have dropped Erwin and Mike a text as well.

Levi quickly gave Hange a call to tell them what was happening, and that we would reach the hospital within an hour. Another wave of cramps hit and I winced, willing myself to finish the glass of water before leaving. Levi rushed to the kitchen and took out some granola bars, dark chocolate, milo bars, and bottles of water and added them into the overnight bag. Grabbing a thick wool jacket of his that he knows I love wearing, Levi draped it across my shoulders before helping me up. Checking on the twins and Renée, Levi carried me out of the house and locked the door, a look of worry all across his face.

"Amour, calm down, I'm fine, really," I clutched onto Levi's hand while he placed me down in the passenger seat. "This is our fourth child already, relax." Funny how I'm the one about to give birth, but Levi is behaving like a lost sheep instead.

"Do I need to remind you about what Hange said? Every pregnancy is different." Levi placed the overnight bag at the rear before quickly going to the driver seat, passing me a pillow that he knows I'll definitely need. "How are you feeling?" He adjusted his mirrors before driving, interlocking my hand in his.

"Fine, for now," I closed my eyes again as another wave of contractions came. I grabbed the pillow and Levi's hand tight. When we stopped at the red light, Levi turned on the radio, tuning to the station playing classical music. Levi brought my hand to his lips, pressing a soft kiss to each of my knuckles as the contractions subsided again.

"Je t'aime, mon cœur," Levi whispered before driving off when the lights turned green.

"我也爱你，亲爱的。(I love you too, my darling)." I managed to smile before kissing the back of Levi's hand in return. Isabel replied my message and said she and Farlan are already at our house. Our kids are still sleeping soundly.

"You're doing so good, baby, stay strong for a while more, okay? We're reaching soon. Hange's waiting." I nodded before closing my eyes, willing myself to breathe normally especially when the contractions came back.

[04 July 2022]

It was almost 12:45am when we reached the hospital's car park. Hange worked at a Women's and Children's Hospital, and probably one of the best in the country. Renée, Pierre and Léon were all delivered by Hange and their team, and I have absolute confidence that our little princess will be in good hands.

Levi pushed a wheelchair towards the passenger door and helped me sit, grabbing the overnight bag and locking the car properly before wheeling me inside. True to what Levi said, Hange and Moblit were waiting for us. Moblit looked a little pale while Hange was smiling.

"Good day Mrs Ackerman," Hange joked while Levi scowled. "How's everything?"

"I've been having these regular contractions every 15 minutes or so, and each of them last for about 30 seconds," I muttered as Levi wheeled me ahead, Hange and Moblit walking beside us. "I've been keeping track since about 11:15pm."

"You've done really well, Rei. Now let's get you changed and comfortable, and we'll start prepping you, okay?" Hange patted my shoulder as I nodded.

"Has your water bag broke yet?" Moblit asked.

"No idea, I think so? I feel a little moist down there."

"Your water bag broke?! Why didn't you say anything in the car? I would've driven faster and—" Levi frowned and I had to calm him down again.

"I'm fine, Levi! Relax."

"Oh, please calm down Levi," Moblit quickly interrupted, scribbling on his clipboard. "Everything is under control." It's so amusing to see my usually calm and collected husband getting so flustered. Hange was laughing as well, the sight of Levi panicking must be really entertaining.

Once we reached the delivery suit, Hange's team of nurses were already on standby, greeting Levi and I cheerfully. It felt good to be in the hands of such skillful and dedicated nurses, and there was already a sense of familiarity too.

Once nurse Nifa helped me change into the gown, Levi grabbed my hand as Hange did their first round of checks. Thankfully, my water bag hasn't broke yet. The moistness I was feeling was from the mucus plug.

"You're about 3cm dilated now," Hange looked up once they're done. "You know the drill, we'll have to wait till you're about 10cm." The rest of the nurses started hooking up all the wires to the machines to monitor mine and our baby's heartbeats.

"Everything's fine. Just breathe, relax, and call us when you need anything." Hange gently pat my head as they spoke, giving Levi a nod of reassurance.

"This might be their fourth child, but I don't want anyone to be complacent, understood?" Hange spoke to their team of nurses and they all nodded. "Keep me and Dr Berner updated with Rei's progress."

"Yes, Dr Zoe!" Hange then left the delivery room as they had to check on other patients.

"About seven hours to go, then?" Levi looked at his watch. It was about 1:25am.

"It might take faster than that, Mr Ackerman," Nifa piqued. "Since it's her fourth delivery already, Mrs Ackerman might dilate faster than usual."

"I know, b-but, but then, her contractions lasted so long with the boys. I'm just—"

"Amour, it's fine. I'm fine. Relax for me, okay? Our little princess can feel it if you're nervous." I squeezed Levi's hand, smiling up at him. Levi visibly relaxed and gave me a soft kiss to my forehead.

"Mm. Do you need anything?" Levi released his grip on my hand and brought the overnight bag over. "Milo, sweets, chocolate?" Levi took out a milo bar, some sweets, and a few chocolates.

"I'm fine, Levi. I don't need anything. I just want you here." I giggled, grabbing his hand again. Levi gave me a kiss as he swiped my fringe away. He nodded and gazed at me, telling me about something funny that happened at work. Everytime I felt my contractions, Levi would whisper encouragements in my ear, gently rubbing my arm as I squirmed around.

"You're about 4cm now, Mrs Ackerman," Nifa did a quick check. "We might want to induce labour later by breaking your water bag when we get to about 6cm or so." I nodded, taking shallow breaths. Just then, Levi got a message on his phone.

"Maman's here." I nodded, urging him to go talk to Aunty Kuchel. She must be worried and nervous too. "Don't worry about me. Go spend some time with your mum." Levi seemed reluctant to leave me in the room.

"Go, don't worry." Levi sighed, muttering "I'll be quick" before going outside. Waves of contractions came and passed, each getting a little more intense. I wonder what time was it now. Levi came back later with a cup of tea in his hand and the corner of his lips looking a little dirty.

"Was the croissant good?" I giggled. Levi looked a little embarrassed. "H-how did—"

"You have some pastry crust on the corner of your lips, love," I gestured for him to come closer before kissing Levi full on the lips. "And now they're gone." Levi's face turned pink, realising that he was walking around with pastry crust on his lips, and that I just ate the crust off his lips in a room full of people.

"You're really cheerful for someone about to give birth." Levi scowled again, wiping his mouth with some tissue.

"I don't know, I'm actually feeling really excited. I can't wait to meet her." I held Levi's hand again, feeling a surge of emotions. Levi's other hand went to gently pat the bump, giving me a soft smile.

"I know. I can't wait to meet her too." I looked at Levi bashfully. Levi interlocked his fingers in mine, gently stroking my knuckles. I tried to take deep, slow breaths as the intensity of the cramps start to increase. Levi softly kissed the crease between my eyebrows. We've been married for six years and I still feel butterflies everytime he does that. It's funny how back in the day, Levi would feel embarrassed to even hold my hand. Now, Levi is actually showing me affection in a room full of people. I guess fatherhood really changed him. Or maybe, being with me changed him?

Hange came back after 3am, making a check on me again.

"You holding up okay, Rei? How's the contractions?"

"Uhh... they're getting stronger... how far am I now, Hange?"

"You're 7cm dilated now, we'll break the water bag soon to help you induce labour. How's your pain on a scale of one to 10?"

"I guess... about 6? Maybe 7?" I grimaced as I felt another wave of contractions. Levi held my hand tighter. Hange sat by the edge of the bed and began to do something to burst my water bag.

"How are you?" Levi asked me again. I nodded, adjusting my position on the bed. Levi opened a bottle of water and inserted a straw for me to drink. "Keep yourself hydrated, you're going to lose a lot of water later." I nodded again, taking sips of water as Levi opened a granola bar and tearing it into small bite-sized chunks. Our last meal was around 7pm, and I was feeling a little hungry.

"Are you sure you don't want the epidural?" Levi asked me and I firmly shook my head.

"No... I can do it, I can do this. I don't want it, Levi," I grimaced again. I didn't take any of these when I gave birth to Renée and the boys, and I definitely don't want to take them now, too.

"I don't need it, Levi." I looked at him again. Levi stared at me, until he gave me a small nod. He knew how stubborn I am sometimes, and there's no point in persuading me to do something I don't want to. Levi fed me a few more bites of the granola bar.

"What time is it now, amour?" I asked Levi after I was done eating. The contractions were getting even stronger. It was really starting to hurt. Perhaps it was time soon. Levi yawned and checked his watch.

"It's almost five soon," Levi yawned again, rubbing the sleepiness out of his eyes.

"Take a nap if you're tired." I urged him, but Levi shook his head.

"No, I'm staying awake. I want to be with you all the way," Levi gave me a small smile and drank from the cup he brought back hours ago, scrunching his face in disgust. "God, their tea sucks."

"I heard that, shorty," Hange called out as they entered again, Moblit following behind. Levi ignored them and drank some water. The contractions were getting really unbearable now, and I could feel it. Our baby wants to say hi to us soon. I started breathing a little harsher, and both Hange and Levi seemed to notice it too. Hange quickly made a check.

"Rei's about 9cm now. Everyone standby!" The nurses all went to their designated spots, some standing by the monitors, some standing next to Hange. I could feel it again. Our baby is pushing against my cervical opening. The pain got even stronger and I clutched Levi's hand tight. I tried to regulate my breathing, Levi whispering next to my ear.

Once Hange told me I was close to 10cm, Levi's usually stoic expression was long gone, he clenched my hand tightly in his as Hange kept telling me to breathe in and out.

"You're doing good, Rei, keep breathing. When I say push, push as hard as you can, hmm?" Hange called out and I grunted.

"One, two, three, push!" I tried pushing as hard as I can, hands squeezing Levi tight. I don't know how hard I'm grabbing him, but I could tell that Levi was bearing with the pain too. My face was screwed up as I pushed again with all my might once Hange told me to push. It may be my fourth time giving birth, but I'm never ever going to get used to this pain.

I don't want to give birth ever again.

Once more, Hange told me to push harder, our little princess' head was slowly getting closer.

"Good girl, mon cœur, you're doing so well. So brave, my wife," Levi repeated next to my ear, wiping my perspiration and tears. I huffed and puffed, feeling nothing but excruciating pain. Hange told me to push again and I did, mustering all my strength and pushing as hard as I can. I grit my teeth and clenched my fist, I'll brave through all these pain for our little princess.

"I can see her head, Rei, keep going! You're doing well!" Hange called out again, further encouraging me. My face was so wet, I didn't know if they were from my tears or perspiration anymore. Hange told me to push again, as hard as I can.

"C'mon, baby, you're doing so good, I'm so proud of you. Just a bit more—" Levi caressed my cheek and kissed my sweaty forehead, muttering endless words of encouragement next to me. "I love you, Rei, I love you so much. My darling, the love of my life, my Rei of sunshine. My girl, you're amazing." Even through my pain, I could tell Levi was choking up. I knew he would rather be the one in my place, to help relieve some of my pain.

I calmed myself down and brought Levi's hands to my lips to kiss them, feeling strength flow through me again. Hange kept encouraging me to push harder; they could see our little princess. I held on to Levi's hand tighter just as Levi leaned his forehead again mine, I pushed with all my might.

All was quiet for a moment, until we all heard the first cries of a newborn. Tears welled up in my eyes as I breathed and panted, looking up at Levi. We both turned to the source of crying.

"Congratulations, Mr and Mrs Ackerman, it's 5:10am, say hi to your baby girl." Hange was beaming as they carried our little crying princess over. She looked like a little baguette, her skin red and sticky. Her cries were crisp and clear. I quickly placed her against my chest, letting her feel my heartbeat and skin. Her cries started to soften. No matter how many times I've given birth, this moment always feels the most magical to me. The skin-to-skin contact. The mother and baby bonding. It's a special moment between our little princess and me. My baby. Our baby. Our daughter.

She's here. Our little princess is really here. My tears started falling uncontrollably as I looked up at Levi with a teary smile. Levi's eyes were moist as he gazed at me lovingly. Wiping the perspiration off my forehead, Levi pressed his lips on my sticky skin and leaned his forehead against mine again.

"I'm so proud of you, mon cœur. I love you. I love so much." Levi choked again as we wept tears of joy.

"Okay, Levi, time to cut her cord," Hange chuckled, carrying our baby girl over to a bunch of towels. Levi stared at Hange.

"Oh, come on! You've done this three times already, don't tell me you're still nervous?" Hange joked and Levi hastily wiped his tears, following Hange’s instructions even thought he probably already knew them by heart. Once Levi cut our little princess' umbilical cord, Hange briefly cleaned her up and put her on a weighing scale, taking down our baby girl's vitals and measurements. Then, Hange wrapped her in a towel before passing her back to me.

"We'll just have to wait for her placenta to flush out, and then we'll do the clean up." I hugged our little princess close to my heart again, beaming towards Levi. Her eyes slightly opened to peep at us.

"She's gorgeous. Just like you." Levi smiled as he gently stroked our little girl with his finger. "It's still too early to tell, amour. But y-yeah, she's lovely. And s-so t-tiny..." I choked up again, feeling a little lump in my throat. Hange did tell us before that our little princess is a little underweight, and I couldn't help but blame myself. Now that I'm taking a better look, our baby girl was a little tinier compared to how Renée, Pierre and Léon were when they were just born. Maybe I should have taken better care of myself, or eaten healthier food. I should've taken those prenatal vitamins consistently. Tears started falling again, but they weren't happy tears.

"Rei—mon cœur, listen. Listen to me," Levi wiped my tears and made me look at him. "Hange said she's healthy. And that's the most important, hmm? Come on now, don't cry anymore." Levi kissed me softly as he stroked my head lovingly.

"Shhh, baby, don't cry. I love you, more than anything else in this world. Always know that," Levi softly pecked our little princess. "You're my wife, my beloved, and our children's mother. You're the best." Levi smiled at me again as I blinked my tears away. I gave him a little nod, the corners of my lips turning up.

"I hate to interupt this lovely moment, Ackermans, but we have to register her name," Hange came over, writing on a clipboard. "Have you two thought of her name already?" Levi and I looked at each other and smiled before turning over to Hange.

"Charlotte Rachel Ackerman. That's her English name." Levi replied with a smile. Aunty Kuchel helped us choose her first name, she said 'Charlotte' meant 'strong' and 'free' in French. Levi and I decided on 'Rachel' together. It was a lovely name, and it was a Hebrew name, just like what all our children have, and what Levi has as well.

"And what about her Chinese name?" Hange looked at us again once they wrote down Charlotte's English name, birth date, and birth hours.

"It's 佳琪 (Jia Qi)。佳 (jia) for beautiful, and 琪 (qi) for fine jade." I told Hange. Levi repeated Charlotte's name over and over in her ear, and she peeped at us again, her tiny mouth widening just a bit. I gently patted her back, rocking her to sleep. Nifa and the rest were already done cleaning me up as well, leaving the delivery suit while Hange and Moblit remained behind.

"You've done so well, my love, I'm so proud of you." Levi stroked Charlotte's cheek again and planted a soft kiss there before kissing me on the lips.

"I love you, Rei, so so much. Thank you." Levi held back another sob as he kissed my forehead, letting his lips linger for a moment longer.

"I love you too, Levi, thank you too, for everything that you've given me." I gave him a teary smile, looking at Charlotte who was lightly snoozing. Levi kissed my forehead once more, as Moblit carried Charlotte away, giving her all her first immunisations while Levi and I just gazed at each other. Renée and Léon cried a lot during their first injections, but Charlotte was so quiet. She merely squirmed around and let out a small cry, but soon after Hange was done, Charlotte was snoozing again.

"She really is a strong little girl, just like her name. I've never met a baby who's so brave when they're given their injections," Moblit smiled as he handed Charlotte back to us. "She's already living up to her name." Levi beamed at her proudly, stroking her cheek once more.

"But she's so quiet. I remember the twins crying a lot more. Is this normal?" Levi looked at Moblit with worry.

"Don't worry Levi, she's fine, she cried a lot earlier, didn't she? Her breathing's normal." Moblit threw his gloves and washed his hands before patting Levi on the shoulder. "We'll let Rei rest here a while more before transferring her back to the normal ward." Levi thanked him and Hange before they both left. The sleepiness started to consume me, and I passed Charlotte to Levi who placed her back in her little cot. The last thing I could remember was Levi kissing me good night, and all I saw next was black.

[06 July 2022]

"We're home," Levi called out as he unlocked our door. Aunty Kuchel was sitting at the living room couch feeding Léon his porridge while Renée was playing peek-a-boo with Pierre.

"Mama! Papa!" Renée called out as she dashed towards us. Aunty Kuchel placed Léon down on the couch before coming over to us as well.

"We're home, Maman," Levi and I called out together as we removed our shoes.

"Mes coeur! Rei, my darling, come here—" Aunty Kuchel grabbed my overnight bag from Levi and guided me to the couch while I was carrying Charlotte. Renée came over to us and stared at the bundle in my arms.

"Say hi to your little sister, ma chérie," Levi smiled as he placed an arm on my shoulder. Renée looked at the both of us and her eyes went back to Charlotte.

"哈喽妹妹，我是你姐姐。(Hello, younger sister, I am your older sister)." Aunty Kuchel carried the boys over too.

"Say hi, boys!" The boys started giggling once they locked eyes with Charlotte, and they happily cooed '妹妹 (younger sister)' together. Hearing all the noise, Charlotte briefly opened her eyes for a little while, and she let out a small whine and a cute yawn. Uh oh. She's hungry.

"Guess it's time to feed her," I told Levi and he brought me back to our room. We made Levi's study room into a temporary bedroom for Aunty Kuchel because she's staying over during my post-natal recovery. We've shifted the twins' cots over to the study room too, so that we can have Charlotte in ours. Renée followed us into the bedroom cautiously.

"Mama?"

"Yes, ma chérie?"

"...... can I touch meimei?" She asked us with wide eyes. To be honest, Levi and I were initially a little worried about Renée's response to yet another younger sibling, furthermore, a younger sister. After we had the boys, Renée got so grumpy and kept throwing tantrums all the time because we could no longer have all our attention on her.

However, it seems like we were thinking too much, because the moment Renée had her eyes on Charlotte, it's like the two of them were starting to form their own special sisterly bond too. One that only the both of them will share and have.

"Come here, ma chérie," Levi called her over and Renée softly poked Charlotte's cheek. Renée even reached her face down to give Charlotte a sniff.

"Meimei smells nice," she muttered, stroking Charlotte's arm now. Levi and I laughed.

"You smelt like that too, you know."

"Really? Was I so wrinkly too?"

"Yes, of course. Now, go out and look for Grand-mère, your Mama needs to feed meimei." Levi patted her cheek and Renée skipped outside. Once Renée was playing with the boys, Levi closed the door and held Charlotte as I briefly undressed. Charlotte was beginning to cry a little louder. Levi quickly handed Charlotte to me, and I cradled her in my arms while guiding her to find my breast, hopefully to get a successful latch on my nipple. It took me a few tries, but in the end, Charlotte managed to latch on my nipple and as she started sucking, I heaved a sigh of relief and lay back on the pillow.

"Damn, my boobs hurt," I whined as I closed my eyes, dreading the countless pumping of breast milk for our baby. My boobs were already feeling so heavy and sore and it hurts.

"I'll massage them later," Levi sat down next to me after changing out of his clothes, patting my knee.

"You just want a chance to grope them, don't you? You're jealous your daughter gets to suck my nipples and you don't," I joked with Levi and he frowned.

"Who said anything about wanting to suck your nipples? I have my entire life to do it." Levi crossed his hands behind his head and leaned on his pillow too.

"I'm serious. If they're hurting, let me know, okay? I'll massage your boobs before every time you pump. I'll freeze your guasha tools and jade roller too."

"Okay okay, amour. I will." Once Charlotte had her fill, I slowly rubbed her back and coaxed her to sleep, laying her against my chest and keeping her warm. As Charlotte snoozed, Levi and I just gazed as her. I still can't believe I gave birth to this angel two days ago. Levi, I, and our four children. Our little Ackerman family seemed whole and complete now. Who would have thought that the both of us would be in this stage of our lives in just six years? It was like Levi knew what I was thinking, and he reached an arm across my shoulder and hugged me close, pressing a soft kiss to my cheek.

"I love you, mon cœur. Thank you for everything that you've given me." I merely looked up at Levi and hummed, smiling as I felt tears starting to dot my lash line. I am so not ready for those mood swings again. Levi seemed to know what I was thinking too, because he wiped those tears away and tried to stiffle his laugh.

"I am so not looking forward to your random outbursts of crying," Levi stroked Charlotte's cheek again.

"I'm not too. But it's all good. I know you'll always be there for me." I whispered, slowly patting Charlotte's back as she snoozed. "But first, let's prepare ourselves for all the visiting that's coming for us soon—" I let out a yawn, quickly making sure that I didn't accidentally scare Charlotte.

"Mm. Don't worry. I told everyone to come only at their allocated time slots." Levi whipped out his phone and started going through the 'baby visiting schedule' he planned. Erwin, Mia, and their kids will be visiting tomorrow evening, followed by Nanaba and Mike the next day. Hange and Moblit will be dropping by when they both end work, and Farlan and Isabel will visit during the weekend. Before I knew it, my eyelids closed on their own and I dozed off listening to Levi's voice, my head leaning on his bare shoulder. Levi didn't realise I fell asleep too, until I stopped replying to him. Smiling to himself, Levi adjusted my head properly, hugged me a little closer, and just like that, we drifted off to dreamland together.

It felt like we were only asleep for a second, because Levi and I were both abruptly shaken awake by Charlotte's cries.

"She's hung—" Levi let out a yawn mid-sentence and rubbed his eyes. "She's hungry again? It's been barely two hours." I undressed again and tried to get Charlotte a successful latch, and moments later Charlotte was happily enjoying her milk.

"My daughter's hungry, and I am too," I grumbled and Levi started laughing. "She's only two days old and already having such a huge appetite."

"Guess who does our little angel resemble now, huh?" Levi kissed my forehead and pushed himself out of the bed as I continued to feed Charlotte.

"I'll get Maman to cook something for us. I'm starving too." Putting on a shirt, Levi went out to tell Aunty Kuchel to cook something. She's probably already going to make some confinement food for me. Mmm, my mouth watered at the thought of eating sesame oil chicken.

Levi didn't come back after a while, even after Charlotte finished drinking her milk. While coaxing a milk-drunk Charlotte to sleep, Levi came back later with a cup full of hot red dates tea. He urged me to finish drinking it so that I wouldn't feel so lethargic. As I finished drinking, Charlotte was sleeping peacefully as well. Levi and I just remained in bed while we waited for Aunty Kuchel to be done with dinner.

The first evening with Charlotte went okay, she didn't really cry much and drank her milk well. I was thankful to have Aunty Kuchel helping me watch the twins too, as they kept playing with their food. While I made sure Charlotte was properly fed, Levi was doing the same for me too, feeding me small mouthfuls of food. Renée was a great older sister as well, helping her Grand-mère and I with the young ones. She ate her meals quietly and helped Aunty Kuchel feed Léon. I had my hands full with taking care of Charlotte, and I was glad that I had such a supportive mother-in-law and husband. Even my eldest daughter was beginning to show more of her 'big sister' side.

Once we were all done with our meals, I went back to the bedroom and started to coax Charlotte to sleep again. Levi was by my side, giving me a shoulder massage. Just then, there was a knock on our door.

"Mama?" Levi and I both turned our heads and saw Renée outside, holding her brothers on each side.

"Yes, ma chérie?" Levi ushered the children in and carried the boys onto our bed.

"Can we all sleep together on your bed tonight?" Renée asked as Pierre started crawling on our bed and Léon ran into Levi's chest. Carrying the boys on his left and right, Levi smiled and told Renée to come up too. She giggled and snuggled in between Levi and I. Instead of sticking close to her Papa, Renée shifted closer to me and started staring at Charlotte again. We both looked at each other, surprised by her behaviour.

"Who wants a bedtime story?" Levi suddenly spoke and the twins started laughing. Renée loved it when Levi read her bedtime stories. Levi was surprisingly good at story-telling, and he can even change his pitch and voice when he was changing between the characters. Levi started telling them about Goldilocks and the Three Bears, not forgetting to make things a little exaggerating to scare them too.

However, Renée was still uninterested in whatever Levi was doing and instead, she hugged me while Charlotte was still in my arms too.

"Mama, can I carry meimei?"

I hesitated for a while. Can I really trust my six-year-old with my two-day old baby? What if Renée didn't know how to carry Charlotte correctly and injured her? What if she hurt herself too? In the end, I gave Renée a smile and nodded.

"Of course you can, sweetheart. Show me how do you carry Mr Teddy?" Renée grabbed a pillow and imitated my arms, cradling the pillow pretending it was her favourite bear.

"Good job. But you must be careful, okay? Meimei is a lot heavier than Mr Teddy. You must tell Mama or Papa if your arms are aching." Renée nodded again and she placed the pillow on her lap, using it to support her arms. I slowly placed Charlotte in her arms while Levi watched. Renée groaned when she felt the weight on her arms.

"I don't like meimei anymore," Renée whined again and I quickly carried Charlotte back into my arms. "She's heavy when she's so tiny."

"You were this tiny and heavy too, ma chérie," Levi chuckled and Pierre stirred in his sleep. "Imagine how tired Mama is from carrying meimei all day." Renée kept quiet for a while and she looked like she was in deep thought.

"Mama, if you're tired, I'll massage your arms." My heart softened hearing Renée. She really is growing up and acting like a big sister now.

"What about me, hmm? My arms are aching after carrying your didi too." Levi started complaining and Renée giggled, saying that her Papa doesn't need massages because his arms are stronger. Who knew the day would come where Renée would actually talk back to Levi.

As time passed, Renée was getting sleepy too. She closed her eyes and lay down on my pillow. Levi was still carrying the boys too. And as we looked at each other again, we gently kissed our four children goodnight, before washing up and getting ready for bed too.

"And finally, we have the entire house to ourselves." Levi grumbled while we were brushing our teeth. He went to shave his stubble while I changed into my night gown. Now that our children are all asleep, I can finally pump my milk without getting disturbed.

"You were the one who said you wanted a fourth child, amour, don't forget that." I yawned and went to grab the pumps, wondering if I will be getting proper sleep. Taking my seat on the armchair next to Charlotte's cot, I attached the pumps onto my breasts and let them do their work.

"Of course I wanted another one. Look at how happy they all are." Levi came out after he was done and squeezed himself onto the armchair, draping an arm across my waist. "I didn't have siblings growing up, and neither did you. Maybe this is why I always wanted to have many children." I hummed in agreement, feeling the fatigue slowly consuming me.

"I know, amour. I feel the same too. B-but it's ju—" I let out another yawn and Levi let out a soft laughter.

"Get some sleep, baby, I'll take care of Charlotte if she wakes up." I nodded again and leaned my head on my husband's shoulder, drifting off to sleep as I felt his lips gently kissing my forehead. Levi and I are now proud parents to our four beautiful children, and no matter how tired things get, I'm sure we'll never exchange this for anything else in the world. Levi, Renée, Pierre, Léon, Charlotte, and I. Our happy little family.

Hehe yes everyone, the little princess is called Charlotte Rachel Ackerman 🥰 and yes, I'll post the meaning behind the kiddos names soon!!! I've put A LOT of thought into our children's names so please hold up and wait out for that post hehe. ALSO. Don't you all wanna know how the four Ackerman juniors look like?? Hehe.

And I know some of the things here are taking place in the 'future' lol BUT LET IT SLIDE OKAY IT'S FICTION HAHA. Lastly. I apologise for the verbal diarrhoea I know it is very long-winded and dramatic 😂

[reikoackerman]

Father's Day

Characters: Levi x Rei (me!) feat. The Ackerman Juniors and Maman Kuchel

Genre: Modern!au

Warnings: SFW, fluff. Takes place in present timeline after the events of Tea Party with Papa. Renée is turning six years old in three months, the boys are turning two years old in two months. Baby four is going to say hello soon..... 🤭

Word count: 2.7k

A/N: Well I didn't post any self-ship writing for Mother's Day and also Kuchel's birthday, so I'm here to make up for it with a cute Father's Day drabble for the husband and papa to our kids hehe. Also, my sister-in-law @mrscommandersmith and her husband gets an honourable mention too <3

"妈妈，蛋糕呢？(Mama, where's the cake?)" Renée asked as she dashed into the kitchen wearing her newly bought blue dress. I gave her a smile and nodded, opening the fridge door and showing her the box. She beamed and ran outside, probably to make sure her Father's Day present was prepared. Aunty Kuchel came over too, and she was helping me dress the boys up and also decorating the living room for me while I prepared the plates and cutlery.

It was Father's Day today, and we decided to give Levi a little surprise. Mia and I were in it together as well. I told Levi to go over to their place to collect the cupcakes that Erwin and Mia baked (Mia baked them though, Erwin merely helped to beat the batter). I even told him to do the grocery shopping since he was out. Although Levi grumbled for a bit, he ran those errands for me without a word. Ha, it's good to be pregnant.

Just then, my phone screen lit up while I was arranging the cutlery. Levi said he's reaching home in 30 minutes. I quickly sent him a reply.

"Maman," I called out to Aunty Kuchel who was adjusting Léon's collar. "Levi's coming home soon." Aunty Kuchel quickly escorted me to the bed room to help me change out of my clothes. I was too pregnant to put on any pretty dresses, and I settled for the white dress Aunty Kuchel wore while she was pregnant with Levi. Aunty Kuchel passed it to me when I was pregnant with Renée, and I remember this dress fitting me well even when I was pregnant with the boys. Even though it's been more than 30 years, the white dress was still in pristine condition, and it's more like an Ackerman family heirloom instead. Tying my hair into a low ponytail, Aunty Kuchel beamed as she placed a hand weaved floral crown on my head.

"Maman, when did you even make this?" I looked at her surprised. I didn't see her bringing it over. Or did I forget about it? Aunty Kuchel merely smiled and helped me up, walking me out and making sure Pierre and Léon weren't running around or accidentally hurting themselves. I quickly got Renée to come over and tied her hair into two low braids.

"爸爸的礼物准备好了吗？(Did you prepare Papa's present already?)" I asked Renée and she swung her feet excitedly. She nodded happily, urging me to put the little tiara on her head once I was done. Aunty Kuchel hugged the boys as Renée and I made our way to the door, waiting for Levi to come home. Within a few minutes, I heard the familiar rustling of keys and the sound of our metal gate unlocking. I placed my finger on my lip and looked at Renée while she giggled cheekily.

"I'm home," Levi muttered as he pushed open the wooden door, and just then, Renée and I pulled open a little party popper together, making Levi jump in shock.

"Welcome home, Papa!" Renée squealed as the boys tried grabbing the paper confetti floating around us after cooing 'Papa!'. Levi looked like he stepped into someone else's home. He had some confetti stuck in his hair, and he looked utterly surprised. I went over to take the cupcakes from his hand.

"Care to explain, mon cœur?" Levi grinned as Aunty Kuchel passed Léon over to him while she handed Pierre to me and took the groceries to the kitchen. Our lips met in a brief kiss as we walked to the dining table.

"It's your daughter's idea. She wanted to do a Father's Day party for you," I smiled, placing the cupcakes down on the table and picking out the confetti from his hair. "Your mum insisted on cooking something for us too." Aunty Kuchel came out from the kitchen with a tray of Shepherd's Pie.

"You didn't need to, Maman," Levi shrugged as he helped her place the tray down on the table. "We could've just ordered food." Aunty Kuchel smacked his arm and Levi hissed.

"Nonsense! Why can't I cook for my children? Or would you rather eat disgusting takeout food than your own mother's cooking?" Aunty Kuchel frowned as she placed Léon in the baby chair while I did the same for Pierre. "Tch. Mothers," Levi muttered under his breath. "Okay, okay, let's eat then, shall we?"

"No, Papa, you have to wash your hands first!" Renée reminded him as she tutted angrily. Laughing, Levi left to wash his hands before joining back.

"Alright, I'm done. Let's eat." Levi smiled and grabbed the knife, about to slice the Shepherd's Pie.

"奶奶，吃！爸爸，妈妈，吃！ (Grandma, let's eat! Papa, Mama, let's eat!)" Renée greeted diligently before Aunty Kuchel scooped some Shepherd's Pie into her Hello Kitty plate. Aunty Kuchel really outdid herself and prepared a lot of food. Other than Levi's favourite Shepherd's Pie, she also made Ratatouille, French onion soup, and Bouillabaisse. Aunty Kuchel also made me a lovely lemon butter cod fish fillet in case the smell and taste of the Bouillabaisse was too strong for me. Aunty Kuchel even had pudding prepared, on top of the cake we got and the cupcakes Mia baked.

Dinner was a pleasant affair as we chatted through our meals, Pierre and Léon making a mess while grabbing the mashed potato with their tiny hands. Just like Levi, Léon seemed to love the Shepherd's Pie too. And Pierre who usually couldn't stay still for his meals was obediently sitting in his baby chair, letting his grandma feed him too. Even Renée ate all the beans and carrots in the Shepherd's Pie.

Once we were done, Levi helped Aunty Kuchel bring all the dirty dishes to wash while Aunty Kuchel took some plates for us to enjoy the cupcakes. Levi came back after about 10 minutes, helping himself to a cupcake.

"Jia Ling, what have you prepared for Papa?" I hinted Renée and she quickly ran into her room, coming out with her hands hidden behind her back.

"Close your eyes, Papa!" Levi obediently listened to his princess and kept his eyes close.

"Okay, Papa, open your eyes!" As he opened his eyes, Renée presented a beautifully drawn artwork of Levi to him. Levi was sitting on a throne and had a large crown on his head. On top was a banner with the words '父亲节快乐！ (Happy Father's Day!)' written in it.

"Ma chérie, this is beautiful," Levi opened his arms and Renée jumped in, giggling as Levi started tickling her cheeks with his stubble. "I love it."

"Mama and Grand-mère helped! Mama taught me how to write the strokes properly and Grand-mère helped me draw your throne!" Levi feigned a look of surprise and decided to tease her further. "Ahhh, so this isn't entirely your work, huh... it's also Mama's and Grand-mère's work..."

"No no no! I did everything by myself!"

"Then did you thank Mama and Grand-mère for helping?"

"Yes, Papa, I did! Grand-mère said I was a good girl too." Renée whined and pouted, hoping to hear her Papa praise her again. Levi affectionately ruffled her hair.

"Good girl. Papa loves this very much. But next time, remember to draw Mama and your two didi inside too, hmm? Papa cannot celebrate Father's Day without Mama and your younger brothers. The Ackermans aren't complete without them, and your Grand-mère too."

"Oh, amour, it's just a small thing," I patted Levi's arm as Aunty Kuchel and I gave each other the eye. "It's a Father's Day present for you, of course she'll only draw you inside."

"I know Papa, I'll draw a nicer family photo for us next time!" Renée chimed as Levi smiled at her again, urging her to enjoy the cupcakes. Just then, I felt my phone vibrated, and it turned out that Mia wanted to video call me.

"Hey there Reiko Ackerman," Mia's voice chimed through the speaker. "Hi Aunty Kuchel! Oh, and hi there short stack. Didn't see you," Mia giggled as Erwin snatched the phone away from her. The two of them were in their living room eating the cupcakes too. Aunty Kuchel politely waved to the phone as Levi frowned, resisting the urge to swear because he knew the children would hear.

"Good evening yourself, midget. Your cupcakes are shitty."

"Really? My children are telling me otherwise. And seeing how you have three cupcake wrappers on your plate, your words and actions don't seem to match up huh." Mia shouted again, chasing after Theodore and Isaac who looked like they were about to start a pillow fight.

"Well good evening to you Levi and Rei, and you too Aunty Kuchel. I hope the cupcakes were delicious," Erwin greeted us and took a bite from his cupcake. "Have you had your dinner?"

"Yeah, we did, Maman cooked a feast for us. You all could've joined us."

"Your house doesn't have space for 12 people, honey," Aunty Kuchel joked as she ate her cupcake.

"Remind me how many people we had during the christmas dinner last year, mon cœur?" Levi pretended to think. "Ah, yes, we had uhm, 10 adults, three babies, and three kids. If you ask me I think our house fits everyone just fine." Mia joined in on our conversation again later and we all laughed. We also said hi to their boys who were urging Erwin to set up the blanket fort for their movie night. Little baby Aria waved excitedly to us when Mia carried her up too. We hung up after a while, arranging another time for a visit to their place soon.

"Maman, should we have the cake now?" I asked Aunty Kuchel while she exclaimed in horror. She forgot about it.

"There's still cake?" Levi looked at me confused again while Aunty Kuchel ran off to the kitchen. I nodded and grinned. "Mm-hmm, your daughter's idea again. I wonder if today's Father's Day, or is it her birthday." Levi chuckled and kissed my cheek softly.

"And this is where I think Renée is indeed my mother's granddaughter." We both laughed while Aunty Kuchel came back out with the cake and a few plates. Renée came out of her room with a plastic crown as well.

"Happy Father's Day, Papa!" Renée chimed as she placed the crown on Levi's head. Aunty Kuchel bought a lovely blackforest cake which we all loved. Renée looked like she wanted to start eating the cake already.

"Hang on, we should take a family photo. Before Rei gives birth," Levi went to the study and grabbed our DSLR camera and tripod, and set the camera up. Aunty Kuchel and I brought the boys from the baby mat and we took our positions on the couch. Levi had Pierre in his lap while Léon was in mine. Renée took her spot by Levi's left and Aunty Kuchel stood by my right. With the timer set, the camera flashed a couple of times and our family photo was done.

"Okay Papa, time to eat the cake!" Renée cheered and Levi cut the cake, slicing a piece for her and Aunty Kuchel. Levi also sliced another small one and removed the whipped cream on it before feeding a tiny amount to Pierre while I fed Léon. Pierre tried grabbing the cake with his hands again, but after a few mouths, Léon started coughing, and we stopped feeding the twins.

"I'll take care of him, you go spend time with Rei," Aunty Kuchel took Léon to our room and hissed at Levi when he was about to bring Léon away. Levi shrugged and walked back to the couch, removing the whipped cream from another slice of cake before feeding me some.

"Ahhh—" "I'm not a child, Levi, I can eat it myself."

"Oh, you said something? Didn't hear that. Come now, open your mouth and—" I sighed in defeat and let my husband feed me. The cake was absolutely delicious even without the whipped cream, and Levi even ate seconds as well.

In the end, we saved half the cake for tomorrow and put the rest in the fridge. Thankfully Léon wasn't feeling sick after his little cough too, and we all gathered by the couch to watch some TV.

☆.｡.:*　　.｡.:*☆

It was around 10pm when Levi and I put the twins to bed. Aunty Kuchel wanted to leave too as she wanted us to have an early night. Levi insisted on driving her home, but Aunty Kuchel told him it wasn't necessary, and he told Levi to spend time with me instead.

"Bonne nuit, Maman, call me when you're home." Levi reminded her as we walked her to our doorstep. Aunty Kuchel laughed as she wore her flats.

"Oh dear boy, how sure are you that I'm going home, hmm?"

"Maman, you're 52, not 18, for heaven's sake," Levi rolled his eyes as I giggled. "Can you not be—" "Merde, honey, I'm joking. Can't I crack a joke?" Aunty Kuchel laughed again as she bid us goodnight. Levi shook his head as I locked the door.

"Can't believe my mum still thinks she's in her teens," he muttered as we walked back to our bedroom. The twins and Renée were soundly asleep. We went to the bathroom and Levi helped me remove the floral crown and took off my clothes.

Sitting me down on the toilet seat, Levi removed his clothes too and stepped into the shower, bringing the shower head closer to me and he started wetting my hair. Levi took his time and slowly lathered shampoo into my hair, gently massaging my scalp. The heat of the shower and the soothing sensation of Levi's fingertips were making me sleepy, and I hummed in happiness as Levi washed off the suds. Levi then started shampooing his hair. As he rubbed conditioner on my hair ends, Levi started giving me a full body massage too, starting from my stiff shoulders to my aching back down to my swollen calves. This husband of mine really is one in a million.

"Mmm, amour, maybe you should consider becoming a masseuse," I joked as he rubbed the soles of my foot, giving me a soft smile.

"Not interested. I only want to give you massages." Levi washed the conditioner off as he started to soap my body, doing the same for himself. Levi even helped me wash my face too. We brushed our teeth together once we were done bathing, and Levi helped to blow dry my hair before helping me into my nightgown.

"I can do all these myself you know, I still have my hands."

"I'm not letting my pregnant wife do anything strenous. You should be relaxing and doing nothing." Levi lay me down on our bed and arranged the pillows properly, supporting my back and my belly.

"Fine, fine," I relented, signalling for Levi to come closer. Levi draped an arm across my belly and started caressing the bump. I interlocked my fingers with his and grinned. "Can you believe we're going to meet our little princess soon?"

"Three weeks," Levi replied, gently kissing my forehead. "We'll be saying hi to her in three weeks."

"I wonder who she'll look like."

"We had this conversation before, didn't we, mon cœur?" Levi laughed as he shimmied closer.

"Yes we did, amour, and she better look like you."

"I thought we agreed that she should look like you? After Renée, I don't think I want another daughter who looks like me," Levi chuckled as he reached down to place a soft kiss on my bump.

"Good night, little princess, your Mama and I can't wait to see you." Levi looked back at me again before he kissed me.

"Thanks for today, sweetheart. You must be tired." I shook my head and patted his cheek affectionately.

"I didn't do anything. Maman and you seem to think the same. She didn't let me do anything except to arrange the plates."

"Which you should. You shouldn't even be doing anything with that bump. Just... enjoy having me as your servant."

"Hmm, so you mean you're not going to be my servant after our little princess is born?" I teased Levi and he laughed.

"Tch. I'll be your servant until I can't move anymore. Happy now?" Levi laughed and hugged me closer, leaning my head on his chest.

"I love you, Rei."

"Love you too, Levi. I hope you enjoyed your Father's Day dinner. Sorry I didn't get you anything, baby, I—"

"Shh," Levi cut me off impatiently. "You don't have to get me anything. You, Renée, and the boys are the best gifts you've given me. And, our little princess too." Levi cupped my cheeks and kissed me again softly, letting his lips linger above mine a little longer.

"You're the best present I'll ever have in my life, and don't you dare apologise for stupid shit like this, okay? Promise me." I nodded and giggled, patting Levi's chest.

"I promise. Come now, let's go to bed." Levi pulled the blankets higher and tugged me in nicely.

"Good night, mon cœur," Levi whispered as he rested his palm on my bump again.

"Good night, amour. Sweet dreams."

[reikoackerman]

^^^^^^ this me right now because THE FLUFF IS KLLING ME.

Mrs Smith this is so adorable, I smiled reading the entire thing!!!!!!!

Oh please hurry up and make Levi and I godparents to your kids PLEASE.

An Evening with The AckerBabies

Summary: It's SELF-SHIP SUNDAYYYY. I convinced @reikoackerman to let Erwin and I babysit her and Levi's kids. Now, Erwin may be universally good at everything else, but kids are a whole different mountain to climb. So, this is how our evening with AckerBabies went down.

Starring: Erwin x Mia, Levi x Rei, and three little OCs

WC: ~ 2.9K

Notes: FLOOOF! Levi's daughter is a mini(er)-Levi

“Relax, Erwin! They’re only children!”, I assured. “Besides, why are you so nervous? We were there at the hospital when they were born. We held them when they were just hours old!” 

“I know. But I can’t help it.”, Erwin contemplated. “I just want everything to be perfect for them. We’ve never had the kids to ourselves before.” 

“Perhaps, it’s the fact that they’re Levi’s children that’s making you nervous.”, I laughed. “Or is it because you’re a little scared of Renee?” 

I ran into the kitchen when Erwin glared at me for rightly exposing him before going back to setting the last of the plates on the table. He placed a couple of pillows on one of the chairs to increase its height, and made space for two high-chairs. All our dainty and fragile trinkets were moved to the higher shelves, sketching papers and crayons readied on the coffee table, an array of children’s games to choose from was stacked up by the wall, and a choice of children’s TV shows queued on the television. 

Levi and Rei were going to drop off their little ones, Renee and twins Pierre and Leon with us for the evening while they went out for a dinner date night on one of their rare shared days off work. Levi’s mum, Auntie Kutchel had prior commitments that she couldn’t get out of, and there was no way in hell that he was going to entrust Uncle Kenny with his children. So as the dutiful God-parents to their kids, we were delighted to step in and spend the evening with them. 

I pureed the soup I prepared for Renee, and got the steamer ready to go for when the boys got hungry. Meanwhile, Erwin vacuumed and mopped the floors, dusted every surface and baby-proofed every exposed corner, electrical socket and cabinet that he could spot, so much that I could barely recognize our apartment when I walked into the living room. The man had been on his toes all day, after having spent four hours at the supermarket and the rest of the day cleaning our home. 

“Everything be fine, love.”, I cooed, brushing a stray strand of hair away from his face. “Just be your usual, loving self and remember that they adore their uncle Erwy.” 

He hummed in response, wrapping his arms around my waist and resting his head on my shoulder in defeat. “I’m not so sure about Renee though. She’s always perfectly nice to you and so aloof when it comes to me.” 

“Well, it’s a good opportunity to break the ice today, isn't it?”, I asked, feeling him nod against my neck.  

Just then, the doorbell rang and we both took deep breaths before walking over to open it. My jaw dropped to the floor when I saw the sight outside. Levi and Rei stood before us, him with his usual frown and Rei with the widest grin. The twins were in their car seats and Renee hid behind Levi, her fingers wrapped around his pinky, stealing glances at us one in a while. But what caught my eye the most was the massive pile of luggage they had with them. 

“Are you moving in with us?”, I asked, eyeing the many bags and pieces of furniture.  

Rei couldn’t help but laugh, and Erwin slapped the back of my shoulder. 

“Shut up.” Levi tutted. “You’ll need this for the evening. Its everything the kids require and some extras.” 

“Are you sure you got it all? I feel like you missed a few things.”, I joked, earning a flick to my forehead from my best friend’s husband. 

“Kids have more luggage than adults, Mia.”, Rei said, giving me a tight hug. “You’ll know when you have your own.” 

“Would you like to stay for tea?”, Erwin intervened before I could say more. 

“We’d have loved to! But we’re late for our reservation.”, she smiled as we all began to lug their things from the hallway into our apartment. 

For a change, Levi seemed satisfied by how clean the place looked after my poor husband spent hours disinfecting every inch of it, and I heard Erwin sighing in relief. Renee listened intently as Rei whispered some parting words for the evening to her and Levi handed us two thickset manuals. One with instructions for Renee and the other for Pierre and Leon, all categorized by different situations and also by time. They thanked us once again for taking on babysitting duties, and kissed the babies goodbye before driving off to their date. 

And then there were five. 

I looked at the time. It was a little past six pm. There was still an hour before dinner. So, we decided to do some fun activities that Erwin had so meticulously planned out so that Renee wouldn’t feel bored or lonely. We spread out the mat on the floor for the twins and arranged their toys for them to play with. They kept each other happily occupied while we diverted our attention to Renee, who climbed on to my lap and curled into my arms. 

She eyed Erwin skeptically as he shuffled through different games that he had bought for her and some that Rei and Levi had packed, with nervousness written all over his face.  

“Hmmm, let's see... would you like to draw, Renee?”, he finally asked, pointing at the arrangement on the coffee table. 

“Art time is after dinner.”, she quipped in less than a second, a vivid figment of her father. 

“Okay, then do you want to play with Play-Doh?” 

“No, it's messy.” 

“How about we play a board game?” 

“No. Pierre will try to eat the pieces.” 

“A movie?” 

“TV time is already over.” 

Erwin was grasping at straws, the desperation getting evident on his face. 

“Is there anything you want to do, sweetheart?”, I finally asked, taking some weight off his shoulders. 

The little one took a long pause, broken only by the coos and chirrups from her little brothers who were engrossed in an intense conversation that only they could understand. Her knitted brows were a mirror image of Levi as she thought hard to come up with an activity. Erwin didn’t blink for the whole time he waited for her to answer. 

“Makeup.”, she finally spoke. 

“Makeup?”, we both quacked in unison. 

“Yes, Mama and Baba bought me makeup and I want to play with that.”, she responded nonchalantly. 

The demand was bizarre, but who were we to deny her? We were treading on thin ice, since we didn’t want any of them to burst into tears, calling for their parents while they were taking a much-needed break. So, Renee’s wish was our command. She cheerily braided my hair with her little hands, and tied Erwin’s into a pony-tail. She clasped matching clip-on earrings on both our ears. I made a mental note to squeeze any photos of Levi after such a vanity session from Rei. 

It was 6:45 pm by the time my usually messy hair was styled in a rather neat updo. I had to excuse myself just as the makeup was about to begin, to go warm Renee's dinner and make the formula for the boys. Rei called me from the restaurant just as I was about to walk back out of the kitchen with the pot of soup and two sippy cups.  

She was relieved to know that the boys were playing per usual and laughed when I told her about Erwin’s salon appointment with her daughter. She wished me luck when I told her that I had sneaked some veggies that Renee wouldn’t normally eat, into her soup. Just as I hung up, a loud wail coming from the living room grabbed my attention. I prayed that Rei didn’t hear it and rushed outside. 

“What even happened?”, I exclaimed. “I was gone for less than 15 minutes.” 

I froze in my spot when I spotted a bawling Pierre sitting on the mat, a fuming Renee who had moved to the pouffe on the other side of the living room, and an exceptionally glittery-faced Erwin gawking back at me as he held a teary Leon in his arms. Normally, I’d have commented on how pretty he looked with one blue and one green eye-shadow, bright red lips and shiny pink cheeks, but there were more pressing matters to be addressed. The faint stench in the air made it clear what one of the problems was. But what the hell was going on with the others? 

“I swear I didn’t do anything! Leon has had a.. uhh.. a diaper issue. Pierre lost one of his socks and I can’t find it, and Renee is angry because I had to stop her from finishing the makeup so I could pay attention to them.”, he listed. 

I took a moment to assess the situation. Despite the tinted powders, the color had drained out of Erwin’s face, and I couldn’t believe that the decked and bejeweled man sitting in front of me was the august CEO of a multi-million-dollar company, and my generally level-headed husband. I almost felt bad for leaving him alone to look after the children even though it was for a short time.  

“It’s okay. We’ve got this. Team work, remember?”, I picked up Pierre’s sock that had somehow ended up under the couch and put it back on his foot, caressing his back to calm him down. “How about, you have Renee finish your look, and I’ll take care of Leon, okay?” 

Erwin nodded feebly, passed me the sniffling baby and the manual that Levi and Rei had painstakingly put together. As I walked to our bedroom, he turned towards Renee who was now throwing her father’s stare of death at her Uncle Erwy. My heart sank to leave him alone once again. But as much as I wanted to be there for him, Leon needed my attention. I followed Levi’s instructions line by line and cleaned the little one up, before taking him back out, where I walked in on Erwin, Pierre and Renee already at the dinner table, waiting for us in silence. It was Leon finally broke the stillness in the air when he cheered upon seeing his other half again. 

I put him in the high highchair beside his brother’s and took my seat opposite Erwin while Renee sat at the head of the table with just her head and shoulders peeking over the table. We put bibs around their necks and I served her the soup and patties. Levi had asked us to let her eat her own food and just to feed the boys, and so we did. 

Renee surprisingly had the soup without taking objection to any vegetables. But she was mostly quiet, possibly still miffed about the little obstruction of her work from earlier, and only answered questions with short responses. I could hear the guilt in Erwin’s voice every time he tried to strike a conversation with her in vain. Leon gobbled up all the food that his uncle fed him with no aversions. Pierre was a little fussy and it took me a while to have him finish his share. 

Renee quietly thanked us for dinner and walked over to the coffee table to commence her art time after Erwin helped her get off the chair. We picked up the boys and began to ‘rhythmically pat their backs not too hard, but just firmly enough’ as per Levi’s instructions to get them to burp. Erwin gazed at Renee longingly from a distance, disappointed that he couldn’t get into her good books even after a full evening together. He’d been planning for this all day, not even having slept well last night, only to be confronted by the worst-case scenario. 

“Blanket forts!”, he blurted abruptly. “I’ll build her a blanket fort. She loves them!” 

“And how did you know that?”, I enquired. 

“Work and politics are not the only thing Levi, Miche and I talk about, love.” 

After successfully getting the boys to burp, we let them on to their mats again to play. I went back into the kitchen to put away the dishes and Erwin began building the best blanket fort he could muster up for his little niece. Renee eyed him curiously but stayed away, since she still needed to put up the angry front that was now starting to show cracks. She continued to draw while occasionally staring at him move our furniture around. 

“Princess Renee of the Ackerman and Smith household, your fort is ready. Would you like to join us inside?”, he announced right as I returned. 

“Yes!”, she squealed without wasting a moment; the smile on her face finally back after Erwin’s valiant effort. 

The ambient lighting cast a glorious glow over the humongous fort covering the entirety of our dining room. But that’s just how Erwin was. All he knew was to go big or go home, give his everything to the people he loved. Erwin bestowed the tiara that he bought for Renee on her head and she entered the fort to occupy her throne, which was an inflatable Hello Kitty seat. We moved the boys’ mat and toys inside as well, along with some story books. 

The kids all listened intently as Erwin narrated the story of Goldilocks to them with Renee’s make up still on his face. It was endearing to see him in this avatar. In the many years of knowing him, I had watched him wear many hats – that of a son, a friend, a partner, a husband, and now a loving uncle. I couldn’t help but think of what the future held for us. 

“Mia.”, Erwin’s voice broke me out of my trance. “The boys seem to be getting sleepy. Let's tuck them in.” 

I smiled upon spotting the two nuggets struggling to keep their eyes open and continue listening to their uncle. Renee was nestled into his side while the two boys had settled on each of his legs. 

“I have a better idea. Why don’t you stay and finish telling the story to Renee, and I’ll tuck Pierre and Leon into bed.” 

He nodded and looked down towards Renee, whose head was resting on his chest as she smiled up at him, looking a bit drowsy herself. Erwin helped me pick the boys up and I took them in to prep for bed time. He read a few more paragraphs of the story to her until she interrupted him. 

“Uncle Erwy?”, she rubbed her sleepy eyes. “You’re my favorite.” 

Erwin wasn’t sure why such simple words coming from a child’s mouth were making him emotional. But he could feel his heart explode and his eyes sting.  

“Really?”, he asked. 

“Yes.”, she responded, fishing a piece of paper from behind her and handing it to him. 

His breath was caught in his throat when he saw the drawing she made of him, complete with his colorful look for the day. But most importantly, the bright red heart and the ‘I love you Uncle Erwy’ written in crooked crow's feet was what brought a soft smile on his lips. This drawing was about to get framed and put up on our walls. Erwin kissed the crown of her head and told her he loved her too, only to find her sound asleep, snuggled up against him. He inhaled deeply, finally having managed to shatter the invisible barrier in between them. 

Meanwhile, the twins were such champs while I cleaned them up and helped them change into their onsies. I was a bit disappointed since all my attempts at getting them to say Mia, failed. But there was always a next time. I finally tucked them into the bed that Erwin had prepared hours in advance, equipped with many blankets to keep them warm, and pillows on the sides to stop them from rolling over the edge. I stayed with them till I was sure that they were asleep and tip-toed back out after grabbing the baby monitor. 

My calls for Erwin and Renee went unanswered and I didn’t know why until I crawled into the fort. My 6 feet tall husband had fallen asleep clutching the 3 feet tall child to his chest. I clasped the ‘E’ pendant dangling from my neck as I felt myself welling up at the sight. Finally. After a whole day of nerves, and running about to make this evening perfect for his best friend’s children, this beautiful, silly, loving man finally achieved success, despite the path to it being bumpy. I planted light kisses on their heads, and sneaked a picture of them, sending it to Rei and Levi who were now on their way back to our place with the caption, “Shhh... don’t ring the doorbell. The kids are asleep.” 

Erwin woke up anyway when they reached a few minutes later and ignored Levi’s comments about his appearance. He’d never complain about the look that his favorite niece did for him. We helped them pack all their things and fasten the snoozing babies into their car seats, and accompanied them to their car. Erwin and I kissed each of the babies goodnight before saying our goodbyes to the pair and heading back upstairs. 

The apartment looked awfully empty. Eerie, almost. Devoid of the liveliness that inhabited it just minutes ago, albeit chaotic. The sounds of giggles and cries of babies didn’t reverberate off the walls anymore. The coffee table was littered with art supplies, with no one to use them. The blanket fort left abandoned. Children's storybooks scattered on the floor, but no one to read to.  

“Mia, let's have one of our own.”, Erwin read my mind. “If you're ready, that is.” 

“I wasn’t sure if I was ready or not.”, I turned to him and kissed his lips. “But I am now.” 

[reikoackerman]

An Evening away from the Ackerbabies

Characters: Levi x Rei (me) feat the Ackerman Juniors, and the Smiths

Genre: Modern!au

Warnings: SFW, fluff. TOO MUCH FLUFF. I CREII. Also there's a bit of humour somewhere, and also something suggestive near the end.

Word count: 2.9k

A/N: This is all @mrscommandersmith's fault for planting this brainrot into my head lol, and now I can't get this fixation out of my head. Please also read Mrs Smith's version that she'll be posting on her blog hehe ^^

Also this is an alternate version of our AU haha XD

[October 11 2021]

“Hey, 亲爱的 (darling),” knocking on the door, I called Levi while he was in his study reading a book. It was a rare day where we were both off from work. It had been too long since Levi and I had a nice day to ourselves, and I was thinking of going out for a nice dinner with him. It was just a little past 4pm.

“Yes, mon cœur?” Levi put down his book and smiled, opening his arms to pull me into his lap. 

“It’s our off day today,” I began, removing his glasses and combing his fringe. “I wanna go out on a date with you.” Levi looked at me curiously. 

“A date night?” 

“Yeah, a dinner date with my husband.” I smiled and laced my arms around his shoulder. “We rarely get our off days to be on the same day so… I was thinking of going out on a date with you.” 

“Of course I welcome the idea of a date with you, mon cœur. But what about the kids? Maman isn’t free today, she’s—” 

“Shh, don’t worry. I’ve asked Mia already, she and Erwin are okay to babysit for us.” Levi cocked his brow.

“You’re entrusting two people without kids to take care of OUR kids?” Levi scoffed, laughing and snorting at the same time. 

“It’ll be good practice for them to, you know, learn how to take care of kids,” I wiggled my eyebrows, hoping Levi caught the hidden meaning. Levi remained silent. 

“Or would you rather I call Hange, or Mike instead…?” Levi frowned and vehemently protested. 

With the babysitting issue out of the way, Levi went to pack all the necessary items that Mia and Erwin needed: Extra diapers for the twins, milk powder and milk bottles, oatmeal, bananas, blueberries, and strawberries, extra clothes, towels and napkins, baby powder, baby lotion, baby-friendly shampoo and body wash, some toys, and also their pacifiers. Levi also took a spare baby mat we had in the storeroom. Levi even wrote a long list of instructions on how to make their milk and oatmeal, how to change their diapers, how to give them a shower, and even how to clean them if they peed or pooped. Levi also went to pack some of Renée's favourite story books, her colour pencil set, colouring book, and also her favourite stuffed bear. 

On the other hand, I was giving Renée a shower. It had been a long time since she went over to their place. Renée seemed a little apprehensive about going over too. 

“Mama, why do didi and I have to go over to Aunty Mia and Uncle Erwy’s place?” Renée sulked as I soaped her hair. She always loved it when I soaped her hair because she loved this strawberry-scented shampoo I bought her. However, Renée still didn't seem happy. “Do you not love me and didi any more?” 

“Of course not, ma chérie, Mama and Papa loves you and didi a lot,” I washed the suds off her hair and Renée started pouring her body wash on her palm, lathering it all over and doing a good job washing herself. 

“Mama and Papa have some things to do today, so we can’t bring you, Pierre, and Léon out. Next time, Mama will bring you along, okay? 妈妈答应你 (Mama promise you)。” Renée nodded as I washed the body wash, taking a fluffy towel to dry her up. Once I was done showering Renée, I blew dry her hair while it was Levi's turn to shower. Renée chose her own outfit: a black and orange sunflower dress, and white frilly socks. I tied Renée's hair into two twin pigtails. Just then, Levi came out of the shower and urged me to shower while he went to quickly give the twins a quick rinse. 

While I was showering, I thought about how Levi and I were so used to being parents, and suddenly it felt weird that we're going out without worrying about Léon suddenly crying, or Renée throwing a tantrum while we were outside. Levi and I were also managing our three children really well, we've developed a good balance, command and control. To be honest, I was a little afraid that Mia and Erwin couldn't handle the chaos, they don't have children of their own after all. Deep down, I knew that even though Levi and I were out on a date, our thoughts would definitely be on our children, worrying if they would be causing the couple trouble instead. The twins can be quite a handful, and Renée can be a little too aloof at times. 

When I was done, I dressed up in a simple grey short sleeved dress, and quickly dressed the twins up while Levi got dressed as well. Renée was sitting on her chair reading a book. Levi came out 10 minutes later wearing a white button down and khaki chinos. He even styled his fringe into a slight back comb. I knew it. He’s looking forward to our date night too. How is it that Levi still looks so good when he's already a father of three? If I were single and I saw Levi out in the streets, oh I would fall in love with him and hit on him immediately. 

“Looking good, Monsieur Ackerman,” I giggled, slapping Levi’s ass when he came out. 

“Looking good yourself too, Madame Ackerman.” Levi kissed my cheek as he carried Pierre out of the cot while I took Léon.

Putting the twins into their pram, I grabbed my handbag and pushed their pram out while Levi held on to Renée's hand as he locked our gate and doors. The twins were being really active at the back of the car, cooing and making lots of noise. It's like they know that they're going out and they're excited. Renée kept trying to hush them because she was reading, and she tutted angrily when Pierre tried to pull one of her pigtails. 

Soon, we arrived at the Smiths' place. I dropped Mia a text so that she can open her door for us. The lady of the house soon opened the door, her blonde husband behind her with an arm on her shoulder. 

“Hi Aunty Mia, Hi Uncle Erwy,” Renée greeted them as she removed her shoes and placed them neatly by the side of their gate. 

“Hey Renée, come on in,” Mia stroked Renée’s cheek as she brought her in. “Uncle Erwy bought you a pretty pair of slippers.” Renée took her bag from Levi, slid on her slippers, and walked into the living room on her own, placing her bag down on the floor before asking for the toilet to wash her hands. Mia guided her to the toilet while Erwin helped us move the twins’ pram in.

“Thanks for doing this for us,” I pushed the twins’ pram in, and Pierre started laughing the moment he met Erwin’s eyes while Léon started to whine.

“Oh don’t worry, Rei, it’s a small thing.” Erwin waved his hand before taking the large and extremely heavy bag from Levi with a groan. “Oh damn, Levi, what’s in here?”

“Clothes, food, diapers, towels, baby shampoo and body wash, toys, baby powder, pacifiers, and baby lotion. They’re all for the boys.” Levi frowned before reaching under the pram, taking out the baby mat. “And this is for the boys too. Renée’s fine on her own, just don’t disturb her when she’s doing her things.” 

“Also, the boys have to be asleep by nine, and Renée by ten. No bargaining even though we’re out,” Levi reminded Erwin once more while Erwin opened the large bag. I noticed him letting out a sigh when he saw the whole list of instructions Levi wrote. Mia came back a while later to look at whatever Erwin was reading.

“You’d better follow the steps inside there strictly, Eyebrows. Also, do not let Renée sit too close to the tv, and do not let her read while eating. She’ll take forever to finish her food and—” I quickly covered Levi’s mouth. He was scaring both of them. 

“Amour, stop scaring them,” I frowned, only releasing my hand when I was sure Levi would stop nagging. I squatted down to kiss the twins goodbye. 

“佳玲要听话，好好照顾弟弟们，知道吗？(Renée must be a good girl and watch over your younger brothers, okay?)” I called Renée over as she hugged Levi and I, nodding her head and pecking us on the cheek. 

“Just enjoy your dinner. They’ll be fine,” Mia smiled at us as she ushered us out. “I’ll call you if there’s anything.” Levi looked like he wanted to say more, but I quickly dragged him away, waving goodbye to the Smiths. 

“I’m worried,” Levi grumbled as he got into the car. “What if Shitwin accidentally drops the boys when he’s bathing them?”

“Oh come on, amour, relax. The kids will be fine. Let’s trust them, okay?” I laughed as Levi began to drive out of the apartment’s car park. “It’ll be good practice for them anyway.” 

“I would prefer them not using our kids as practice.” Levi muttered under his breath.

Levi decided to bring me out for some Thai food for dinner. The night was chilly and we both were craving something spicy. It was close to 7pm and everywhere was getting crowded. Fortunately, this Thai eatery had seats. I settled for my favourite pad thai with extra dried chilli flakes and a tom yum goong while Levi got himself a simple basil pork fried rice. We both ordered some amazing Thai milk tea and lemongrass tea too. 

Levi and I had such a pleasant time together. No crying babies, no whiny Renée, no weird looks from others. It was just Levi and I, and our dinner was perfect. We could finally talk and spend time with each other without distractions and stress as parents, it was like we were in our early stages of marriage again, before Renée was born. 

Once we finished our dinner, Levi brought me to the shopping mall too, saying that a date out isn’t complete without a gift. Sometimes this man really spoils me too much. What did I do in my past life to deserve such a doting husband like Levi? Levi knew I couldn’t wear jewellery like many others due to my sensitive skin, so instead of buying me a necklace, or a bracelet, Levi got me a bouquet of roses instead. Everyone was staring at us when I walked around carrying the bouquet. Honestly, Levi really is the sweetest husband out there. 

Levi and I had time for some dessert at a café too. He got me a slice of matcha cheesecake while he ordered a tiramisu for himself. He also ordered a pot of lychee rose oolong tea for us to share. It really had been too long since we were out on a date. I couldn’t stop staring at Levi and his handsome face the entire night, it was like I’m falling in love with him all over again. 

“You’re staring at me a lot tonight, mon cœur,” Levi muttered without looking up from his cake. 

“I was just thinking,” I ate another spoon of my cheesecake and leaned forward. “What if you were single and I saw you looking like this while you walked down the street?” I giggled, leaning my head on my palm. Levi grabbed my left hand and lightly kissed my wedding ring on my ring finger. 

“Tch, you would probably just gawk at me with your mouth open, not doing anything and then complaining to someone when I’m gone.” Levi gave me a slight smile and stroked my fingers, looking back at me without a word. I returned his gaze and smile, gradually rubbing my foot against his calf with a slight giggle. 

The both of us remained like this; Levi's hand on mine while I gave him a little footsie under the table. Levi suddenly raised his eyebrows and his smile became a smirk instead. You, me, in bed, tonight. Watch out. My smile became wider, my foot went a little higher. Come at me, baby. I'm more than ready. While our eyes were still locked on to each other, I had to ruin the moment with a sneeze. Urgh, why didn’t I bring along a cardigan or something? 

“Why didn’t you bring a jacket? You knew it was going to be cold,” Levi frowned as he poured more hot tea for me while I took a piece of serviette to clean my nose. I smiled sheepishly, eating the rest of my cake. Once we were done, Levi downed the last of his tea and escorted me out of the café with a hand resting on my back. It was going to be 10pm soon. How did time fly so quickly? Levi suggested making our way over to Mia and Erwin’s place for the kids and I agreed. Levi and I had uh, pressing matters to attend to at home as well. I dropped Mia another text when we were near, giving her and Erwin enough time to pack. 

“Do you think the twins are asleep? Did they eat their oatmeal, or drank their milk?” Levi started nagging again and I rolled my eyes. He was perfectly fine during dinner, and now he’s acting like this again. 

“They’re fine, amour, Mia didn’t call the entire time, right? Our kids are well-behaved.” I chuckled while Levi continued driving. Soon, we reached their car park again and slowly made our way up. knocking the door, Mia opened up and I noticed that the house was dim. 

“Shh, the kids are asleep,” she hushed us as we removed our footwear and stepped inside, afraid of the mess the twins might have created. Instead, what greeted us was the sight of Renée sitting in Erwin’s lap, head on his chest while her arms were laced around his neck. Renée was sleeping soundly on Erwin’s chest while Erwin had an arm around her protectively. My heart warmed at the sight. It was the first time our little princess slept so soundly around others. I turned to Levi who had a smile on his face as well. 

“I hope they didn’t give you and Erwin any trouble?” I asked Mia as we quietly packed the baby mat and everything else while Levi carried Pierre and Léon out from their bedroom and gently placed them in the pram. 

“Oh, of course not, they’re all really lovely and obedient. Renée’s really sensible, she helped us with your boys. Told us how to change their diapers and all that.” Mia smiled as we kept the toys, turning to look at Renée sleeping in Erwin’s lap again. 

“Thanks for entrusting your babies to us,” Mia chuckled as Levi packed up the baby mat and kept it under the pram. “Erwin and I had a lot of fun, and practical experience.” Even under the dim lighting, I could tell that Mia was blushing. Call it a woman’s sixth sense, or my mother’s instinct, but I knew that perhaps, they were finally ready to have children of their own. I gave Mia a knowing smile.

“Don’t worry, you and Erwin and more than welcome to babysit our kids anytime. But who knows? Maybe you’ll take care of your own kids soon.” I giggled and Mia helped me push the pram out of their house as Levi went to wake Erwin up. Erwin and Levi were talking for a bit, and then Levi carried a sleeping Renée out of their house. We bid the Smiths goodnight and slowly made our way to the car. 

“What did Erwin and you talk about just now?” I asked Levi as he drove home, our kids sleeping soundly at the back. 

“Oh, it’s nothing, He just apologised for not letting Renée sleep more comfortably,” Levi scratched his nose and looked at me when he stopped at the red lights. “He also said he’s thinking of having kids.” My eyes widened in surprise. 

“Really?! That’s the feeling I got from Mia too,” I squealed silently in delight. “Oh, oh, yes! Took them long enough!” 

“Know what I told Erwin next?” Levi had a slight smirk again and sped off when the lights turned green. Grabbing my hand, Levi placed a kiss on the back of it. “Told him I wanted a fourth.” My eyes widened again. 

“Baby, we’re parents of three kids already.” 

“I know, but don’t you think having another one would really complete everything?” Levi stroked my knuckles and looked at me expectantly, reminding me of what happened back at the café. Oh. So that’s what he meant. 

“W-well, I, uh, I m-mean, a fourth child does sound okay, b-but—” 

“If it’s meant to be, then it will.” I sighed in defeat, turning in my seat to face Levi. 

“We’ll see if we’re that lucky, then.” I gave him a flirty smile. 

As we reached home, Levi helped me bring out the pram as I placed the twins inside, pushing them into the house as Levi carried Renée and the heavy bag. He locked the car and joined me, carrying Renée into her room while I placed the boys back in their cots. Léon stirred in his sleep before falling silent again, Pierre still sleeping soundly. Levi came back after a while, asking me to join him in the shower with a teasing look. I laughed out loud, kissing my husband full on the lips as he started unzipping my dress. 

Let’s see if we’re this lucky, I thought to myself as Levi removed my dress while I unbuttoned his shirt, moving my hands down to unzip his chinos. 

And of course, Levi and I really were that lucky, because a month later, my home pregnancy test kit said I was ‘pregnant’. 

THANKS FOR THE BABY FEVER MRS SMITH XOXO!!!! Also, yes, this is uhhhh, baby 4's origin story hehe >\\<

[reikoackerman]

My bestie and her husband went out on a picnic date but they ended up cuddling in each other's arms 🥺

Also, guess who took the photo?

Spring Weekends…

The Sun shines. The weather is warm. The birds chirp. Children play. Cottony clouds float. New leaves rustle.

Yet, he and I find ourselves in a dream that’s even more beautiful.

My first official self-ship art. So be nice 🥲

© 2022. Mia'sCanvas. DO NOT RE-POST ON ANY PLATFORM. DO NOT MODIFY.

[reikoackerman]

Shhhhh my bestie and her husband are taking a nap y'all 🤭💕

It had to be done. He deserves a good sleep and i need it.

© 2022. Mia'sCanvas. DO NOT RE-POST ON ANY PLATFORM. DO NOT MODIFY.

[reikoackerman]

Dance with Me

Characters: Levi x Rei (me)

Genre: Modern!au

Warnings: SFW, fluffy. Extremely self-indulgent. Block the tags #levi x rei and #reivi if it's too gross. Story takes place before Renée was born (aka in 2015) which also shows hints as to when Renée was born. Also a little racy near the end 🙈

Word count: 2.1k (I'm sorry lol)

A/N: I have an issue whereby if I have a FIXATION on something, I have to write it. So please pardon my self-indulgence and fantasy byeeeee n_n also yes I have a post in my drafts about the birthdays of the four Ackerman Juniors so I will post it when the time is right!!!!

Also, tagging my sister-in-law @mrscommandersmith because you're probably one of the very few people who can tolerate my indulgent nonsense 🤪

[25 December 2015]

It was just after Levi's 28th birthday dinner. I was washing the dishes as Levi went to clean up the dining table. It was the first time we were celebrating Levi's birthday as a married couple, and instead of going out for dinner like we used to, we've decided to avoid the Christmas crowd and celebrate it at home instead.

Dinner was simple and cosy, just the way we liked. It had been a little more than a month since we got married and moved into our new home together, but it felt like nothing changed. Our home. It had such a nice ring. Sometimes I still can't believe that I'm married to someone as perfect as Levi, and now I'm no longer Miss Akiyama, but Mrs Ackerman.

While I was still washing the dishes, Levi's Spotify playlist started playing a familiar old tune.

As Close to You by The Carpenters started playing, I closed my eyes and gently hummed, remembering the choreography to this song. It was for a Teachers' Day dance performance I did when I was still in secondary school, back in 2009.

Why do birds suddenly appear, every time you are near?

Just like me, they long to be, close to you.

Why do stars fall down from the sky, every time you walk by?

Just like me, they long to be, close to you.

My body automatically swayed to the music, the choreography still as clear as day. My feet started dancing on their own.

Step, up, step, kick, step, turn, step, relax.

I didn't realise Levi was behind me until I felt his arms wrapped around my waist, his strong chest against my back.

"What's with the little dance, mon cœur?" He whispered next to my ear, resting his chin comfortably on my shoulder. My heart raced when I heard his voice and a smile automatically appeared on my face.

"Nothing," I giggled, reaching up to put the plates on the drying rack. "I just remembered that I danced to this song when I was 15." Levi spun me around, and trapped me against the sink. Silently, he stared at me for a while, until he suddenly chuckled.

"Tch. You can still remember something you performed six years ago?" A laugh escaped my lips, and Levi's eyes turned into little crescents. I dried my hands on the towel hanging by the cabinet.

"I can remember every single dance performance I did ever since I was four years old, until now," slowly snaking my hands up his chest, I interlocked them behind his neck as the music continued playing in the background.

That is why all the girls in town, follow you all around.

Just like me, they long to be, close to you.

Just like me, they long to be, close to you.

"Dance with me?"

As the bridge played, Levi and I gently swayed in synchronised steps, eyes never leaving the other. From the kitchen, we somehow ended up in the living room. With his hand loosely supporting my waist and my arms behind his neck, our dance didn't stop even after the music ended.

Beautiful in White by Shane Filan came up right after, the introduction wordlessly drawing us in. With a smile, our hands transitioned as though we were just practicing; my left hand on his shoulder while his right was behind mine. Our other hands interlocked, and when Shane Filan started singing, we continued our dance. It was like our wedding night all over again.

Not sure if you know this

But when we first met

I got so nervous I couldn't speak

In that very moment

I found the one and

My life had found its missing piece

So as long as I live I love you

Will have and hold you

You look so beautiful in white

And from now 'til my very last breath

This day I'll cherish

You look so beautiful in white

Tonight

"Have I ever told you, my mum loves wearing white?" Levi told me once the first chorus was over.

"Mh-hmm, yeah, I noticed," I gave Levi a small smile. "Maman does have a lot of white clothing. Her favourite dress is white too."

As the second verse played in the background, Levi was silent once more.

"Have I also ever told you, that you remind me a lot of Maman?"

"Yes, Levi, countless times, actually."

"Can't believe how possessive and needy the both of you are sometimes." Levi rolled his eyes.

"We'll, I can't help that we're both born in the year of the dog, amour. Dogs are possessive. Look at ours." Chuckling to Levi, we both simultaneously turned to our three babies. Haruma was lying in his doggy bed without a care in the world. Hitomi and Hidemi on the other hand were chasing each other, trying to bite the other's neck in a playful wrestle. Before we knew it, Levi's arms were around my waist again while my hands loosely hung on his shoulders.

And if a daughter is what our future holds

I hope she has your eyes

Finds love like you and I did

Yeah, and if she falls in love, we'll let her go

I'll walk her down the aisle

She'll look so beautiful in white, yeah yeah

"I hope our daughter has your eyes," Levi softly says as he held me snug against his chest.

"No, our daughter need to have YOUR eyes, Levi. You need to pass on your mesmerising grey eye genes to the next generation," I scowled, playfully hitting him on the chest. "Dark brown eyes are so boring."

"A black haired brat with my grey eyes? Tch. She's just going to look like my mum." Levi scoffs, his fringe swaying along.

"What's wrong with that? Your mum's a beauty. Our daughter will be a pageant queen if she has your hair and eyes."

"Our daughter will be a pageant queen if she has your dimples and smile."

"Then what's our son going to get? Your shitty temper and my dark circles?" I laughed out loud, staring at Levi.

"He'll have your eyes."

"No, Levi, our children needs to have grey eyes. If they get MY eyes, I'll disinherit them." Levi frowned, cupping my cheeks.

"You're not being serious, are you?"

"Levi, baby, of course I'm joking. How could I disinherit our own flesh and blood?" It was my turn to frown now. I can't believe he thought I was being serious. Hearing me, Levi heaved a sigh of relief and hugged me close again. We both remained like this in each other's embrace even after the music ended. Now his playlist was playing I'll Make Love To You by Boyz II Men.

"You know... I've been thinking." Levi suddenly spoke up after a while. We both stopped in our steps. I let out a hum, looking at Levi. There was something different in the way he looked at me, and I couldn't help but feel jitters in my gut.

"We're parents to our fur babies right?" I nodded. Levi must be referring to our three dogs in the living room and the two rabbits sleeping in the study room.

"Uh-huh...? What about them?"

Levi started stroking my cheek with his thumb, and I could see a faint hint of red tainting his alabaster skin. His lower lip quivered before he spoke.

"I, uh, I was just thinking... that m-maybe, uh, you know, it's time for us to... perhaps b-become parents to human babies instead?" Levi stuttered and spoke so softly by the end of his sentence, yet I heard his message loud and clear. My eyes widened, and my heart fluttered.

"Baby, I've only been your wife for slightly more than a month, and you want me to become a mother already?" I looked at him shyly, feeling my face heat up. We both knew we loved and wanted children, it was just a matter of when, and I definitely wasn't expecting Levi to bring up this topic so soon. Levi suddenly looked a little conflicted.

"I know it's a big decision for you. You're only 21, and you're already bound to me for life. You should be enjoying your youth, and not being tied down as someone else's wife, or a young mother." Levi let out a sigh, releasing me from his embrace. "Sorry, mon cœur, I shouldn't have said anything." Levi walked towards our bedroom without a word. I quickly dashed forward, hugging him tight.

"What makes you think I'll say no?" Levi turned around with a bewildered look and I couldn't help but giggle.

"Is this your idea of asking me for some birthday sex, amour?" I gave him a shy smile, walking away to switch off the living room lights. Levi remained standing by our bedroom door. Despite the lack of lighting, I could tell Levi was probably blushing and feeling very embarrassed as well.

"W-well, I didn't mean it that way, b-but—"

"Would you believe me if I told you I was thinking the same?" I cut Levi off before he could say anything more. Levi was stunned.

"Even if you didn't say anything, I would have dragged you into the bedroom and made out with you so passionately that you'll be horny and begging me to let you fuck me." I winked at Levi and went to the bedroom, Levi trailing behind me looking dumbfounded.

"Also, I don't oppose the idea of having kids at 21, maybe 22, seeing how we're in December already." Closing the windows, I drew the curtains and switched on the aircon. I closed the bedroom door with my foot and slowly pushed Levi towards our bed. Levi was visibly surprised at how forward I was. As his knees hit the bed frame, he fell on the mattress while I straddled him tight.

"So, Levi Ackerman," I whispered in his ear, watching him shudder and feeling goosebumps appearing across his skin. Levi's hands were also cupping my ass cheeks. "Wanna make me the mother of your children tonight?" I could feel a low rumbling in Levi's chest before he swiftly switched our positions, pinning me down on the mattress instead. Levi hovered above me with a look of hunger in his eyes. Stroking a finger across my cheek, Levi look a long whiff against my neck before kissing me underneath my earlobe, lowering one hand until it was in line with the hem of my shirt.

"I hope your body can keep up with me then, Reiko Ackerman." Levi swiftly removed my shirt and kissed me roughly before staring hard at my clothed chest.

"Is this new?" Levi smirked and ran his palm across the navy coloured lacy bralette, feeling the material under his touch. "I don't think I ever saw you wear this before." I nodded and shyly bit my lip.

"Do you like it? I bought this with Isabel when we went shopping last month. She said this would be a perfect birthday present for you." Isabel told me I would look sexy as hell in this lacy lingerie set, but I was actually feeling a little nervous. I never wore anything so skimpy and lacy before and I was afraid I looked ugly instead. Levi, though, seemed to disagree.

"I love it, baby. Gotta thank Izzy the next time I see her." Levi kept staring at my chest and I was slowly feeling embarrassed. "You look beautiful, my love, but you know what? I think you look better without it."

Without delay, Levi unclasped the lacy bralette and harshly threw it aside, kissing me with urgency. I moaned into the kiss, feeling excitement pool in my belly. Sex with Levi was always passionate and interesting, but tonight seemed a little different. It wasn't just making love for our own pleasure and desire anymore. Levi broke the kiss after a while and leaned against my forehead, his lips moistened and his chest heaving.

"Oh, my dear husband, I'm more than ready, you know. It's that time of the month." I shyly smiled at Levi again, hoping he'll get the hint. Levi looked stunned for a while before he let out a gentle smile instead, and softly pressed a kiss to my forehead.

"I love you, Rei."

"I love you too, Levi. If all goes well, you'll have your belated birthday present nine months later."

Pulling Levi closer to me, our lips met in a heated kiss once more. As Levi started roaming his hands to the waistband of my shorts, my hands lingered across his back before peeling his shirt off him. It was a night filled with nothing short of passion and love, and probably Levi's most memorable birthday to date.

And everything did go according to plan, because nine months later, Levi and I welcomed the best present of our lives on 16 September 2016, the birthday of our firstborn daughter, Renée Naomi Ackerman. Needless to say, our little princess did get Levi's grey eyes.

Well it was supposed to be Levi and I slow dancing LOL I'm sorry it escalated to something else. Who else can I blame other than myself? *facepalm*

Also!!! In case anyone is confused, I headcanon Levi to be born on 25 December 1987, and Kuchel's birthday is 20 May 1970. Yes if you've done the math, Kuchel gave birth to Levi when she was 17. It's another story for another time XD. Also, if anyone of you are feeling confused as to what the heck is the year of the dog, you can read all about it here!!

Also, the names and breeds of our fur babies can be found here!!

[reikoackerman]

@postwarlevi @sckerman I have the urge to pull you two to join @mrscommandersmith and I in my self-ship sunday OMG LOL HELP. MIA. SHOULD WE DRAG THEM INTO HELL LIKE US.

Happy birthday Rei! Saw Levi this morning, maybe getting your present and he asked Jean and I to stop by and deliver this note. No worries, your house was on the way! And that's really nice of Erwin and @ack3rlady to watch the kids. I'll see if I can be of any help later. Can't wait to go to karaoke with you guys this weekend! All my love 💙

I'm replying you with three memes instead of one because 😭💕

Eliza this is so incredibly sweet of you!!!!!

(Self-ship kind of answer below the cut hehe)

Oh Eliza thank you and Jean for passing me this note!!! I hope Levi didn't disturb or torment you two too much!!!

And yes, Erwin and Mia were so kind. The kids had fun at their place too. Renée didn't want to go home T.T

I can't wait for karaoke with you and @ack3rlady this weekend too!!! We're going to hog on to the mics and sing our hearts out 💕 Erwin told us to dedicate our hearts so that's what we're going to do!!

Oh speaking of Levi. He came back with new pots of flowers and we spent the day re-planting them into our garden!! You and Jean should come over and hang out with us soon!! Our oranges are growing pretty nicely and we'll have freshly squeezed juice for you guys!!

Thank you for the birthday wishes!!! Please send my regards to Jean too, and your fur babies!!!

[reikoackerman]

Mrs Smith you have no idea how happy I am after seeing this (okay actually you do because I can't stop screaming).

You based it off my self insert and WOW you have absolutely delivered 🥺❤ I didn't even mention anything about my dress in that self insert but omg, you drew me my ideal dress. You drew Levi perfectly in the green coat. How did you even nail my skin tone and my hair length perfectly?!?!??!!? 😩💕

Thank you so much for this lovely present my bby, Levi and I love it very much and we love you 😍

"Happy birthday, my Rei of sunshine", he whispers.

Can't keep calm because its my bestie's birthday!!

Never in my wildest thoughts, did I think that this hellsite would bring to me not just a dear friend, but a sister I never had all the way from across the globe in the form of @flamingblinglove. I could go on and on about how my days are 39420892% brighter since the day she came in!

So, like the amazing sister that I am (and also very modest), I've decided to spoil her a little bit. I made her this sketch inspired by her own little indulgent self-ship fic, 'In A World of Our Own'. The painful suspense I've been building up is finally over, Rei!!

My heart was racing away while I drew this because I couldn't believe how perfect these two are together!!

Happy birthday, Rei!

You deserve all the happiness, not just today, but for every day of your life. And I'm going to continue adding to it with little snippets like this one :) I love you, my precious girl! And I'm grateful everyday to have met you! And I hope you like your present!!

© 2022. Mia'sCanvas. DO NOT RE-POST ON ANY PLATFORM. DO NOT MODIFY.

[reikoackerman]

Happy Birthday, Rei

Characters: Levi x Rei (Me)

Genre: Modern!au

Warnings: Smut. Yes I've gone overboard and delusional. Soft birthday sex (I'm w e a k). Extremely extremely EXTREMELY self-indulgent and probably very cringy. Also this isn't following any specific time line. The four kids aren't here xD

Word count: 4.7k (yes I am that crazy, forgive me)

A/N: Yes you all it's my birthday so let me fantasise about having a soft session of making love with Levi okay????? Also @mrscommandersmith and @hashaneeee I only have you two to blame for making me write this extremely embarrassing and indulgent thing. Also, Levi's outfit is inspired by this amazing fanart <3

Also there's a few songs I listened on repeat while brewing this smut lmao so uhh; Versace on the Floor - Bruno Mars // Be Your Everything - Boys Like Girls // Baby Good Night - GD&TOP // I'll Make Love To You - Boyz II Men // A.D.T.O.Y.(하.니.뿐.) - 2PM // You're My - Taeyang // Lullaby - BEAST

Today was the third of March, and also my birthday. 

Levi booked a suite in a fancy five-star hotel for the occasion even though I told him not to. I wanted to scold him for splurging on unnecessary things, but Levi said he wanted to pamper me since it was my birthday. I relented and eventually, we packed our bags for a short staycation at the hotel. 

We had breakfast in the hotel and set off to our first destination. Levi brought me flower viewing at the botanic garden. It was springtime and the flowers were all in bloom. We took lots of amazing photos and also had people take photos for us. We also had our photos taken and developed by their souvenir stand, and Levi bought them at the counter. He bought a photo frame to place in our room, and another in the shape of a crystal ball for his desk. We had lunch at the nearby mall and caught a movie too. We also had dessert at the ice cream parlour where I wanted to have waffles and ice cream. I asked Levi where my birthday cake was and he kept saying ‘later’.

For my birthday dinner, Levi brought me out for steak. I wore a sapphire halter neck dress that accentuated my shoulders, bringing along a light grey scarf. I tied my hair into a low ponytail while he styled his fringe up. Levi wore a charcoal grey three-piece suit and he wore a black necktie too. Levi even wore a long black coat even though it wasn’t that cold outside. Who was he trying to look good for? I frowned. 

“Really, amour. Leather gloves?” I cocked my eyebrow as I finished applying my mascara. 

“It’s unsanitary outside,” Levi simply said as he styled his hair into a messy backcomb. As I put on my lipstick, Levi was already wearing his socks. “You should bring your leather jacket, you know. Then you can match me.” Levi told me as he slipped on his polished shoes. 

“Fine, fine.” I rolled my eyes and laughed as I went to find a jacket instead since Levi did say the restaurant was cold. When we reached the restaurant, Levi suddenly took out a stalk of red rose from nowhere and gave it to me. I bit my lip and smiled at Levi shyly, suddenly feeling weak in the knees. 

“Is that why you’re wearing that coat when you obviously don’t need it?” I chuckled as Levi pulled out the seat for me. Levi merely shrugged and told me to order my food. 

We had a splendid dinner, the view from the restaurant was astounding. We had a panoramic view of the city and the night lights were stunning. The food and ambience were fantastic too, Levi’s ribeye was cooked to perfection and my striploin was tender and fragrant. The wine that the sommelier picked for us complimented our meals as well. Tchaikovsky's Rêverie du soir in G minor played in the background by a live pianist. I caught Levi looking at me while I was having my food, and when he realised it, he winked at me instead. I felt my heart leap to my throat, feeling utterly surprised by Levi’s act.

My second surprise came in the form of a blackforest cake which was my absolute favourite. Levi then said he was saving the best for the last. Just as I thought the day couldn’t be more perfect, Levi brought me to the rooftop garden of the hotel to stargaze. From high up, the stars seemed so close and within our reach. The cloudless sky was littered with countless stars, and the absence of the moon made the stars sparkle brighter.

“So beautiful.” I muttered, unable to take my eyes off the scenic view. The more I look, the more stars I see. They seemed impossible to count. Levi was silent, his eyes were dazed. Hugging my waist, he looked at me with a smile on his face. 

“You’re more beautiful, mon cœur.” Levi softly said. I felt my heart throbbing and heat crept up my cheeks. It was a good thing the surrounding was dim because I know how bad of a blushing mess I have become.

“W-what?”

“Tch, you've been with me for so long. Can’t take a little praise?” Levi teased, placing his hand behind the small of my back. He guided me to the lift. Looks like we’re going back to our suite.

“N-no, it’s… unexpected.” The lift door opened and we stepped in, pressing the button for the 50th floor. Once we reached, we slowly walked back and Levi opened the door to our suite. 

“Then maybe I should praise you more.” Levi whispered into my ear and I felt my heart leap to my throat again. Why does he keep saying things like this? We removed our shoes and Levi handed over his coat to me and disappeared somewhere while I went to pour two glasses of water from the kettle. Returning back to our bedroom, I hung up his coat and my jacket, sat by the dressing table and removed my earrings. I wanted to unzip my dress but it got stuck with the hair on my nape. 

“Amour,” I called out. He was still nowhere in sight. Weird. He wasn’t in the bathroom either. “Amour? Levi?” I called his name again, walking to the bedroom door. 

“Happy birthday, Rei.” Levi appeared in front of me with a bouquet of sunflowers so huge it looked bigger than Levi himself. I was pleasantly stunned, unsure of how to react. They were my favourite flower. I gladly accepted the bouquet, looking up at Levi. He told me to stand by the window of the balcony so that he could take a photo of me with the bouquet. 

“How did you hide them? They’re so huge.” I had to hug the bouquet with both hands while I stood by the windows. Levi merely shrugged and told me to smile. 

“Come here, amour.” I urged him to come over and take some photos with me. It was hard capturing nice photos because the bouquet was too big and occupied most of the space in the photo. It was hilarious, seeing Levi and me looking so tiny next to the bouquet. Placing the bouquet down on a small sofa, Levi stood by the table looking like he had a lot to say. He took a remote control on the table and pressed some buttons. Just then, the curtains in the room closed, and the lights dimmed. 

“I-I didn’t know what to get you,” Levi stuttered, sticking one hand into his pocket and the other hand loosening his tie, “it feels like you already have everything and anything, and you’re lacking nothing in your life.” I closed the distance between us, staring deep into his steely grey eyes. 

“The reason why I have everything and anything is that I have you. You’re my everything, Levi, and I’m nothing without you.” I held his hand and gave him a smile. “You don’t have to get me anything, because you’re all I need.” It sounded cheesy, but it’s the truth. Levi completes me and he’s all that I can ever ask for. Levi took a step closer and now we’re standing almost face to face. Excitement bubbled deep inside me, anticipating what Levi would say and do next.

“Instead of giving you something tangible, I’ve decided to give you a memory instead,” Levi raised his hand and stroked my hair, using the same hand to softly cup my cheek, “a memory of us that you will never forget.” With that, Levi gently pulled me closer to give me a tender kiss on my lips. One hand remained on my cheek while Levi’s other hand wrapped around my waist to pull me closer to him. My hands snaked up Levi’s chest, interlocking behind his neck and pulling him even closer. Levi’s tongue prodded against my lip and I gladly welcomed him, our tongues dancing together in perfect harmony. The room was silent except for the sound of our wet kisses and heavy breathing. It was starting to get cold, but Levi felt so warm and too hot for comfort. Levi’s hand on my waist started going higher and higher up my back. He tugged on the elastic band on my hair, letting it cascade down my back. As he slowly pulled my zipper down, I removed Levi’s jacket, contemplating if I should drop it on the floor. 

“Leave it.” Levi muttered next to my ear. I dropped his jacket and started unbuttoning his vest to throw it on the floor as well.

“Why did you have to wear so many layers?” I complained as I removed Levi’s necktie, letting it join the pile of clothes on the floor. Levi pulled me in for another passionate kiss, prying my dress off my shoulders and letting it fall on the ground. 

“Hm, so that you can have fun undressing me.” Muttering against my lips, we briefly disconnected from our kiss to look at each other. 

Levi had red smudges on his lips from my lipstick, and his cheeks were flushed. We’ve only been kissing for what felt like five minutes but those kisses got me panting for breath. Stepping out of my dress, our eyes locked on each other as I unbuttoned Levi’s shirt slowly, tracing his muscles with my finger. Levi cupped my cheek and kissed me harder, moaning into the kiss as I locked my arms behind his neck and jumped on him, interlocking my ankles behind his back. Levi walked towards the mattress and put me down gently, throwing his shirt somewhere. 

“So beautiful,” Levi muttered as he trapped me with his body, his hands grabbing mine and keeping them above my head, “and all mine.” Leaning his forehead against mine, our lips met again in another urgent kiss. I rubbed my thighs together, squirming around to dissipate the wetness gathering around my core.

Levi broke the kiss and peppered kisses to my neck, nuzzling his head between my nape and shoulder. Pressing a kiss beneath my ear, I let out a soft moan as I tilted my head to give Levi more access. Levi released my hands and caressed my cheek while he nibbled on my neck and continued to kiss me slowly and sensually down my clothed chest. Levi bit and gently sucked on the skin above my left breast, leaving a hickey right where my heart would be. Crying out a small whine of delight, I squirmed again and my knee brushed against Levi’s crotch. 

“Arch your back for me, baby.” Levi coaxed as his hands reached to my back. I obediently listened and he swiftly removed my strapless bra, my bare chest in full glory. Kissing his way slowly down my chest, Levi took a hardened nipple in his mouth, teasing the little bud with his tongue. A mewl of pleasure escaped my lips as I gently stroked Levi’s hair, watching him have fun circling my nipple with his tongue. Levi rested his right cheek on my chest and looked up at me. He noticed I was watching him, and Levi stopped everything he was doing to smile at me instead. At that moment when our eyes connected, I felt heat creep up my cheeks again, a sudden wave of bashfulness causing me to bite my lower lip. Levi chucked and latched onto my nipple once more. 

“Ahh! Amour—” my breath got stuck in my throat as Levi sucked on my sensitive nipple, his tongue flicking and circling it non-stop. Levi took his time, using his tongue to slowly play with the nipple in his mouth while the other hand massaged my breast. His fingers gently pinched and tugged at the hardened bud while my fingers now threaded themselves in Levi’s soft ebony hair. Within seconds I became a whining mess, my wet pussy throbbing with want and need. Once he had his fun, Levi released my nipple with a soft ‘pop’ before slowly kissing his way to my other breast, each soft kiss eliciting a moan from my lips. Giving both breasts the attention they deserved, Levi continued to lick and suck on the perky nub, driving my senses up the wall and making me feel closer to my release. I covered my mouth to hide my gradually increasing voice. I didn’t want to ruin the mood with my nasty voice and weird pants. Levi however was thinking otherwise and pulled my hand away.

"Let me hear your voice, mon cœur, don’t hide it from me.” He chimed softly while looking at me. My face flushed red with embarrassment, Levi’s words igniting a burning want in me. I cupped his cheek and I meekly nodded. “I want to hear those beautiful moans coming from your pretty lips.” Levi kissed my palm before going back down on my breast again. 

As he finished lavishing on my chest, Levi kissed his way down my stomach, stopping on top of the waistband of my silk panties. Sitting on the carpeted floor, he eyed me as though he was asking for permission. I lifted my butt from the mattress and Levi swiftly pulled my panties down with his teeth without looking away from me. I swear he needs to stop doing this, for every moment he spends looking at me only makes me want and crave him even more. It left my mouth feeling dry and made my heart tremble. Levi placed both my legs on his shoulders and stroked my thigh, fingertips lightly tracing every mole and scar on my skin. 

Lying on the bed naked and strangely feeling very exposed, I clamped my thighs around Levi’s head as he bit on my inner thigh, feeling me squirm once more. I could feel how wet I was down south, and Levi could definitely see it too. I tried to close my legs out of embarrassment, yet Levi’s hold on my thighs kept them open. Levi sensually kissed my inner thighs from my knee all the way up, not forgetting to leave tiny purple hickeys along the way. As he kissed every inch of skin his lips could reach, I could only pant and moan and let Levi do whatever he wanted to me. I wanted to touch him too, to leave bite marks across his body, to him with my own hands. Yet, all Levi kept saying was that he will take care of me tonight.

“Mmm, I’ll make tonight the best night you can remember.” Levi smiled as he left a featherlight kiss on my clit. I let out a mewl of pleasure as Levi kept kissing my outer lips softly, taking his own sweet time to slowly lick my cunt from the bottom up. I couldn’t control myself any longer. I tried to sound demure to mask my moans. Yet with Levi’s touches and skillful tongue, there was no way I could hold it in. The coil in my belly started tightening and my toes started feeling ticklish. My chest heaved with every breath I took and my moans got louder as time passed. Levi knew how much I loved it when he went down on me like this, and he knew exactly what to do to push me over my limits. 

“That’s it, baby, I wanna hear you out loud.” Levi peeked at me while his lips were still on my cunt doing wonders. His skillful tongue was drawing circles on my clit while he interlocked his fingers with mine, his thumb stroking my knuckles. As Levi continued to suck on my clit, my fingers found their way back to Levi’s hair again. I gently scratched his scalp as he tickled my clit with his tongue, circling and playing with it using his hot muscle. Another dirty moan escaped my lips as Levi licked up and down my cunt once more. Levi hummed against my soaking entrance, pleased with what he felt was music to his ears. Levi’s hands were on my hips holding me down while his tongue began to circle my clit faster and faster. My moans became sloppier, my breathing became heavier. Likewise, the more incessant my moans were, the faster Levi licked and sucked on my cunt. I couldn’t take it any longer, the pleasure was too good to be true. 

“Amour, I-I’m… g-gonn—” the coil in my belly abruptly snapped and I clamped my thighs around Levi hard, my breathing haggard and eyes shut. Levi gave a satisfied groan as he rubbed his hands up and down my thigh and slowly went to cup my butt and lift my hip higher, drinking up all I had to offer. All that clouded my mind was how dizzy I felt, and how Levi made loud slurping noises as he lapped up my essence. As I slowly came down from my high, Levi lowered me back on the mattress and he climbed back up, his body hovering above mine again. We locked eyes and my hand went to cup his cheek. 

Levi’s hair was even messier than before, the remnants of him eating me out were evident on his mouth and chin as well. His face was red and sweaty and the dim lights in our room gently illuminated his features. His steely grey eyes which were usually cold and stoic looked at me with so much love and adoration. I stroked his nose bridge with my finger and swiped my thumb across his lips. I don’t know why I had a sudden urge to kiss him. I swiftly pulled Levi down and met him halfway, a moan escaping my mouth each time our tongues intertwined. All I could hear was the sound of our wet kisses, the loud beating of my heart, and the sound of Levi removing his belt. Pushing myself upwards, my hands went to Levi’s belt and I unbuckled it instead. 

“Let me.” I whispered as I removed his belt, unzipping his pants and pulling it off him. Levi removed them and kicked them off, clad in the boxers I bought him for his birthday. I opened my arms and pulled Levi back to the mattress. For some reason Levi started to tickle me before I could kiss him, his fingers kept attacking my waist and he nuzzled his head near my neck, letting out hot breaths on my skin. Levi tried to nibble my earlobe but I quickly pushed him away, rolling on the mattress to escape his clutches. 

“Stop it, amour! No!” I squealed as I jumped off the mattress, running around the bedroom. Levi was a lot faster than I was and he swiftly rugby tackled me on the mattress once more, trapping me beneath him and mercilessly tickling me all over. I laughed out loud, begging Levi to stop torturing me through my endless giggles. Levi seemed to be having fun because he decided to not only tickle my waist but also blow raspberries on my neck too. I was a laughing fit, unable to control my spasms and movements. While laughing, I accidentally kneed Levi loudly in the stomach and he collapsed on top of me with a loud grunt. 

“Levi!!! Oh my gosh, I’m so sorry amour, I-I didn’t do it on purpose—” I tried to push him up but his body was like a dead weight on me. “Amour…?” I tapped on his arm only for him to look up at me again with his chin in between my cleavage. “Are you okay?”

“You know, Rei, you have a really lovely smile and a beautiful laugh.” Levi scooted closer to me and his face was just inches away from mine. I was flabbergasted, why was Levi praising me out of nowhere again? Levi picked up a few strands of my hair and twirled it around his finger lazily, ignoring the confused look on my face. “You always try to hide your laughter because you told me you sound like a bird cawing but I beg to differ.” Levi pressed a gentle kiss to my forehead, the tip of my nose, and even under my jaw. That simple gesture made my lower lip quiver and my words got stuck in my throat as Levi sucked on the skin on my neck, whispering sweet nothings next to my ear while removing his boxers. 

“I love your eyes. They’re full of vigour and life, and I love staring into them,” Levi kissed my eyelids as he grabbed his shaft and tugged it up and down a few times. “I love your cheeks. They always turn into such a lovely shade of red whenever you’re embarrassed or flustered,” Levi stroked my cheek with his free hand while the other was busy prodding my entrance with his dick. I could feel tears welling up and threatening to spill the more Levi continued to praise me. Without breaking eye contact, Levi entered me slowly while pushing my knees to my chest. 

“But the biggest thing I love about you most is your heart, because of all the men in the world you could have chosen, you fell in love with me.” Levi captured my lips in another passionate kiss and I eagerly kissed him back, my hands cupping Levi’s cheeks as he continued to thrust into me at a slow, loving pace. Levi rolled his hip gracefully into me as I weaved my fingers through his hair again, feeling absolutely pampered and loved with his gentle movements. We continued kissing each other, Levi’s breath still had hints of the wine we had for dinner. Breaking the kiss to catch our breaths, I laced my hands behind Levi’s neck as he stared at me again. 

“Why do you keep looking at me tonight, amour?” I questioned him before I knew it. It’s not like I dislike it, but Levi has been staring at me a whole lot and I really wanted to know the reason why. Levi looked at me with a blank look before lowering his gaze, unable to control his laughter. 

“Why can’t I look at you? I’ll stare at you all day if you allow me to.” I can’t believe we’re actually having this conversation while Levi’s dick is still grinding into me, his rhythm comfortable and easy. I looked away pointedly, unable to hide my smile. No matter how long we’ve been together, Levi really never fails to surprise and fluster me. 

“Does that answer your question, you silly girl?” Levi playfully tapped my nose and kissed me once more. Levi’s pace on my cunt was slowly building up in me and fuelling my need. I reached my finger to my clit and circled it, moaning into our kiss. Levi broke the kiss and looked at me again. 

“Besides, I want to look at your beautiful face while we’re making love,” Levi pressed our foreheads together and cupped my cheeks, “let me look at your face while I stuff you full of my cum.” At that moment, Levi looked at me like I was the most precious thing in the world. His touches were so delicate and his movements were so graceful. Levi sucked on my nipple once more while I continued to finger myself, feeling my euphoria coming soon. I kept whining and panting, feeling nothing but pleasure and Levi’s dick softly thrusting in me. My toes started to curl, my body started to spasm. Levi sang praises next to my ear and there was only one thing on my mind: Love. 

From the day we met until now, Levi never stopped showing his love for me, be it a simple gesture like holding my hand while we were walking, or pampering me with hugs and kisses. Levi was never good at showing people his emotions. Yet with me, Levi always expressed his feelings whenever he could. Tears started forming in my eyes again when I think about how lucky I am to have someone like Levi in my life. 

“I love you, Levi.” I blurted out, sensing my orgasm approaching. I quickly blinked my tears away as Levi kissed my cheek. I didn’t want him to see me cry. My finger quickened its pace on my clit while Levi continued to thrust into me slowly, his dick brushing past my sweet spot. I bit my lip again, trying to muffle my moans. My other hand wrapped around Levi’s sturdy back, my fingernails leaving their mark all over his alabaster skin. Levi kissed me again and again, dragging his wet and swollen lips across my jaw. 

“Don’t hold back, baby. Let me hear you.” With that, I let out a loud cry and hugged Levi close to me, my hips involuntarily grinding Levi and my walls clenching tight around his dick. Levi continued to pant and grunt as he rolled his hips chasing after his own high. Moments later, Levi let out a gasp as he collapsed on me, panting loudly as I felt his dick throb inside me. I felt so warm inside out. We stayed like this for a while. No words exchanged, just Levi and I with our sweaty bodies and synchronised heartbeats. 

“I love you too, Rei,” Levi swept my fringe out of my eye and smiled at me, “more than you ever know.” I gazed at Levi lovingly while he cradled my body and held me up tightly, making sure not to let even a tiny drop of cum land on the sheets. Locking my ankles behind his back, I latched onto Levi like a koala bear hugging a tree. Levi walked us to the bathroom and set me down in the jacuzzi, filling it with water and switching it on. Levi lit a candle and told me he’ll be back after a while. I sank lower into the warm water as Levi wore a bathrobe and went out. 

I closed my eyes and was nearly dozing off when I heard Levi singing me a birthday song. When my eyes opened, Levi was holding on to another slice of black forest cake, two champagne flutes and a bottle of champagne. I quickly made a wish and blew out the candles. Levi threw the candle away and removed his bathrobe. Popping the bottle of champagne, Levi joined me in the jacuzzi as he filled both our flutes. Levi handed me one and offered me a toast. 

“Happy birthday, mon cœur,” our glasses clanged as we both took a sip, “I hope you like your present.” I beamed at Levi and cuddled close to him, laying down on his chest. 

“I love it, amour. Thank you. I’ll burn this memory into my brain and bring it to my grave.” Levi had an arm draped across my shoulder, fingers gently stroking my arm. Laying on Levi’s chest and listening to his strong heartbeat lulled me to sleep. 

“Hey, wake up. You still have your cake to eat.” Levi tapped me suddenly and I rubbed my eyes sleepily. 

“Can’t I have it for breakfast tomorrow?” I whined, snuggling closer to him. Levi chuckled and pushed me up again. 

“Your birthday cake is to be eaten on your birthday.” Levi took the plate and fed me a small slice of cake. I hummed in delight and urged Levi to have a few bites too. We finished the cake and our champagne, and it was time to get out of the jacuzzi to take a proper shower. We then brushed our teeth and took turns blow-drying each other’s hair. While I was doing my skincare routine, Levi went to wash the flutes and plates. Levi came back and fluffed the pillows, lying in bed while waiting for me. I joined him in bed when I was done, switching off all the lights and taking off my silk robe.

“What did you wish for?” Levi hugged me close, kissing my temple. I stuck out my tongue before realising that Levi probably can’t see what I was doing. 

“I'm not telling you, Levi. If I tell you what my wish was, then it won’t come true.”

“That’s a whole load of baloney.” Levi complained as he pulled the comforter higher. Pulling me close, my back was snug against his bare chest. Levi’s arms wrapped themselves around my waist while I interlock my fingers with his.

“Bonne nuit, mon cœur,” as Levi pressed a kiss to my shoulder. I hummed a soft “bonne nuit, mon amour” as we closed our eyes, letting the sleepiness take over. 

I wish that Levi and I will be happy together until forever ends. 

A/N: I am very sorry for the cringe and how disgusting this is omg. Thank you for reading till the end of this embarrassing writing >\\< just... let me enjoy my birthday fantasy lol kthxbye.

[reikoackerman]

Tea Party with Papa

Characters: Levi x Rei (me) feat. Ackerman Juniors

Genre: Modern!au

Warnings: SFW, fluff. A little sad somewhere, but still fluffy. Takes place in present timeline after the events of Happy Birthday Levi. The Ackerman Princess #1 is five and a half years old, the Ackerman Princes are 18 months old. Ackerman Princess #2 is uhh, still 16 weeks (as of 06/02/2022) in the making.

Word count: 2.5k

A/N: Yay happy Self-Ship Sunday!!! All thanks to the dad!Levi art @mrscommandersmith drew for me for her 600 follower event, I have this compulsion to WRITE OUT THE HECKING TEA PARTY OUR BABY GIRL HAS WITH LEVI AFTER SHE MAKES LEVI PRETTY AND READY. Tagging @hashaneeee because you asked for it too <3

Also yes I like to call my daughter by her Chinese name hehe. My half-French baby needs to be reminded that she's also half-Chinese.

It was around 7:45 pm when I heard the rattling sound of keys by the main door, and the excited 'thump thump thump' of footsteps that followed. I felt the 'thump thump thump' of my heart too and I quickly cleaned my hands and headed outside.

"Welcome home, Papa!" Renée stood by the door, greeting the man of the house who just returned home. She beamed at him, jumping up and down liked an excited little puppy. He quickly patted her head.

"I'm home," Levi called out after removing his shoes, looking at me expectantly with a smile.

"Welcome back, amour," I took Levi's bag as our lips met in a brief kiss. Renée was hugging onto Levi's leg like a koala bear hugging a tree.

"Do you want to take a shower first, baby?" I asked Levi as he walked to the dining table, rolling up the sleeves of his light blue button shirt.

"It's fine, I'll eat first. I'm starving. Besides," Levi carried a clingy Renée and placed her in his lap. "this little bear doesn't want me to leave." Renée giggled as Levi started bouncing her up and down in his lap and tickling her, laughing and screaming for her papa to stop. I shook my head and laughed as I brought out Levi's dinner. Tonight's dinner was honey baked salmon. Levi would usually buy dinner back home after work, but since it was my off day, I decided to cook instead.

"Jia Ling, let Papa eat his dinner. Go read your books first, or play with didi¹." Renée sulked as I carried her off Levi's lap, watching her pick out some books before going to our room. Moments later, Levi and I heard Renée reading aloud to Pierre and Léon.

"You must be tired," Levi stroked my cheek and pressed a kiss to my forehead, placing his palm on my belly. "Nah, I'm fine. Didn't really feel sick today too." I assured Levi, my fingers caressing his. "You better eat before it turns cold. Renée's waiting to spend time with you too." I chuckled, taking a bite of salmon from my plate.

Levi and I chatted over dinner, catching up on our day. About an hour later, I brought the plates to the kitchen while Renée came out of our room with a little pink bag in her hand.

"Papa, are you done?" Renée asked, pointing to the bag in her hand. Levi carried her onto his lap and gently combed her hair.

"Yes, ma chérie."

Renée giggled and started digging through the bag for a purple elastic band, tying up Levi's fringe. Once she was done, she took out a white container and opened it, dabbing Levi's cheeks with the compact powder (which was actually mine).

"Close your eyes, Papa." Renée frowned as she started pressing the sponge on Levi's eyelid. As soon as he felt she was done, Levi sneakily lifted an eyelid to take a peep at what Renée was doing.

"Papa, don't move!" Renée complained in fluent Mandarin, frowning when Levi kept fidgeting while she was dapping his face with the compact powder. She stuck her hands on her hips and pursed her lips.

"Tch," Levi let out a small laughter. "You look just like your Mama when she's angry with me." Listening obediently to Renée, Levi kept his eyes closed when Renée was still dapping his face. Once she was done, she took out a brush and a container of blusher.

"Smile, Papa!" Renée cheerfully spoke up.

"Hmm? Why do I have to smile?"

"Because Mama smiles when she puts this red powder on," Renée looked at Levi innocently with her wide grey eyes. "And Mama looks nice when she smiles." Levi let out a chuckle and gave her a smile. Renée excitedly dabbed the brush and very lightly gave Levi's cheeks a pretty red flush.

"Are we done yet, princess?"

"No, Papa, you still need to put on lipstick." Renée grumbled again before looking through the bag, deciding on a light pink glossy lipstick.

"Papa, Papa! Make your lips like this," Renée tapped Levi's arm, making him look at her puckering her lips.

"You little monkey², who did you learn this from? Hmm?" Levi had a slight frown when Renée puckered her lips towards him.

"Mama! She always does this when she puts something on her lips!" Renée replied truthfully. "Oh, Papa, you and Mama do this too before you two kiss kiss." Levi felt his face heat up and he sniggered, doing what he was told and keeping his eyes closed while Renée dolled him up.

"Mama! Princess Papa and I are ready for the tea party!" Renée called out to me once she was satisfied with her own creation. I took out a tray with two cups of oolong tea for Levi and I, and a cup of warm chocolate milk for Renée.

"Mhmm, Papa looks gorgeous, doesn't he?" I smiled as I saw the both of them. Levi's face looked exceptionally pale because Renée dabbed too much powder on him. Levi's lips were also shiny and glossy and looked extra kissable. I took out a pink chiffon bow and tied Renée's hair into a high ponytail.

"Nice lips," I teased Levi before taking a seat, giving him his cup. Renée happily took her chocolate milk and beamed at us.

"Why am I the only one with makeup?" Levi looked at the both of us bewildered.

"Mama is pretty, but not you, Papa! You look pretty now." Renée giggled before drinking from her cup.

"Papa, why do you hold your cup like that?" Renée looked at Levi, and looked at the way she held her cup.

"Because when Papa was young, Papa was drinking tea by holding the handle of the teacup and it broke. So from then on, Papa started holding teacups by the rim." Levi patiently told her, taking a sip of oolong tea.

"Then Mama, why do you hold your teacup the same way as Papa? Did your teacup break too?"

"Mama copied Papa because Mama thinks he's cool." My eyes met Levi's and he gave me a small smile, stroking my cheek with his other hand.

"Then should I copy Papa too? I want to be cool like Papa!" Renée then placed her cup on the table and started imitating Levi. Her tiny fingers barely covered the rim of the cup. She looked a little disappointed that she couldn't lift up her teacup.

"Ma chérie, I'll teach you how to hold the teacup like me when you're older, okay?" Levi held on to Renée’s little hand and tried to cheer her up. Renée gave a small nod, but she still looked a little sad. Levi gave me a look and I knew what he wanted me to do.

I went to the kitchen and took out a few chocolate chip cookies, and Renée's eyes lit up immediately, happily eating one and offering Levi another. While I sipped on my tea, Renée and Levi went on and on, talking about anything and everything, from Renée's day at the kindergarten, to the newest book she started reading. All her attention was on her Papa, and she didn't even spare a glance towards me.

I stared at my empty saucer, feeling left out that I wasn't included in their conversation and I wasn't given a cookie. Hearing them talk in French wasn't making me feel any better too. However, seeing Levi and Renée so happy and spending some father-daughter time together, it did warm my heart, yet there was still a numbing feeling tugging at my heartstrings. It was hurtful, it was depressing. I hate how I was feeling. Yet, I grit my teeth put on a smile, and made sure my husband and daughter don't see me crying.

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"Is she asleep?" Levi looked at me when I entered our room. He was seating by the cots gazing at our twins. I gave Levi a small nod and went to the bathroom, wanting to take a quick shower and brush my teeth. I could feel Levi's eyes on me, yet he didn't say anything.

"Come here, mon cœur," Levi gestured as soon as I came out in my pyjamas. Levi guided me to the bed and started massaging my shoulders, down my back, and slowly descending to my calves. Usually I would be a chatterbox, but tonight I was silent. Levi knew something was up, but he just kept quiet and watched me.

"You okay?" Levi spoke up after a while. I hesitated before answering.

"Mhmm."

"No you're not. Something made you upset?"

"Do you think I'm a lousy mother?" I spoke up after a long while, my voice choking up. I didn't want to say anything, but the thought in my head and the ache in my heart just refuses to leave. Levi stopped whatever he was doing and looked at me sternly.

"No of course not. Who the fuck told you that? My shitty uncle?"

"No, it's not Uncle Kenny. It's..."

"Hey. Mon cœur, listen to me. You're not lousy."

"Then why does Renée love you more than she loves me?" I stared at my fingers, tears spilling down my face. Damn you, hormones. Damn you, brain. Damn you, Reiko Ackerman. Stop it! Get a grip! Levi immediately pulled me into a hug and rubbed my back.

"Who told you that? Our daughter loves you and you know it." Levi whispered next to my ear, cradling my head gently.

"She didn't want to talk to me."

"... Rei, ba—"

"She didn't give me a cookie."

"I'll buy you your favourite cookies."

"That's not the point, Levi! I don't want cookies, I-I, I want—"

"Shhh, it's okay, baby, I know—" Levi hugged me tighter, rubbing my back and taking some tissue from the bedside table. I sobbed on Levi's shoulder, tears soaking his shirt.

"Don't ever think she loves you any less, okay?" Levi slowly released me from the hug, wiping my tears with his fingers and kissing my forehead. "Renée loves you and you know it. She called you 'pretty', didn't she? Renée said "Mama is pretty" and indirectly called me ugly." I remained quiet and stared at my fingers. Levi sighed before standing up.

"I feel the same with our boys sometimes you know," Levi lifted me in a bridal carry and walked to the bathroom, setting me down on the toilet seat. "Pierre and Léon cry all the time when I'm feeding them, but they stop the moment I pass them to you." Wetting my face towel, Levi gently patted my face clean.

"I felt like they preferred your embrace more than mine, as though they love you more than they love me. However, you need to remember this, Rei." Levi hugged me and let me rest my head on his chest.

"Remember, they're all our children, our flesh and blood. They are products of our love for each other, and our children love us, just as we love them." Levi squatted down in front of me, placing his hands on my tiny bump again. Our little princess has been growing up so quickly, soon I can't even hide my baby bump anymore.

"Reiko Ackerman, listen to me. Don't ever think of yourself as a lousy mother, okay? You're doing an amazing job." Levi stood up and kissed me softly, hinting me to stand up to go back to bed. Prepping the pillows, Levi made me sit upright and pulled me close to him, an arm around my back and his free hand loosely draped across my belly. I still had a little pout and Levi seemed determined to get rid of it.

"You're my wife. Levi Ackerman's wife. You're stronger and greater than you think, stronger than anyone else. But if you're tired and weary, always remember that you can lean on me. Okay?" Levi cupped my cheek and softly pressed a kiss to my forehead, going down to kiss the tip of my nose, and finally landing on my lips.

"I'm your husband, I'm your king. Depend on me, hmm?" Levi leaned our foreheads together and kissed me with passion. I clutched his shirt collar tightly, feeling a flame lighting up in me. I returned the kiss with vigour as Levi's hand started slipping under my pyjamas top, softly running his fingers across my skin. The fire in me started burning stronger, the feeling in my heart started growing larger. I straddled Levi's thigh and kissed him harder. Damn you, hormones.

"During dinner earlier, when Renée was on my lap," Levi said in between kisses. "Remember how she kept laughing and asking me to stop?" I broke the kiss, panting against Levi as I nodded.

"All I can remember is a certain someone on my thigh bouncing and laughing," Levi held my waist and pulled me close, making sure he wasn't pressing on the baby bump. "However, instead of asking me to stop, she kept begging me to go faster." My face burned at that sentence, and I quickly pushed myself off Levi, utterly embarrassed at a certain memory. I bit my lip to hide my smile, playfully hitting Levi's thigh.

"See, now you're smiling," Levi caressed my hair and made me look at him. I laughed and took my phone, scrolling through my gallery.

"Oh don't talk to soon, baby, wait till you see this —" I showed Levi a picture I took and his smile faltered.

"W-when did y—" "While you were having fun, obviously?" I giggled, showing my phone into Levi's face. "I'm going to send this photo to Mia and Erwin."

"Oh no way you're going to do it, Mrs Ackerman."

"Try me, Mr Ackerman." I wiggled my eyebrows, preparing to send the photo to my bestest friend. Levi started tickling and wrestling the phone out of my hands while I suddenly squealed. Just then, we heard the twins let out a small cry. Levi and I stopped whatever we were doing and quickly checked on the twins, hoping we didn't wake them up. Luckily they were still fast asleep.

"You better not send that photo to Shitwin and Mia in the morning." Levi warned me as we snuggled close under the blankets, feeling Levi's arm around me and his chest flushed against my back. His hugs always made me feel so protected and loved, like he would shelter me from all harm and fear.

"What if I told you I already hit sent?" I giggled, turning around to kiss Levi's jaw.

"Bonne nuit, amour," I smiled at him once more. "Thank you. And, I love you." I whispered as I snuggled into Levi's embrace, feeling his heart beating so strongly against his chest. Levi kissed the crown of my head and pulled me even closer to him.

Bonne nuit, mon cœur." Levi then drifted off to sleep with a slight smile on his face. Little did I know that the reason for his smile was because of the picture I took. It was a photo of Levi with his puckered lips and tied up fringe, while Renée was putting the shiny pink lipstick on him.

1: didi (弟弟) - Younger brother, or can also refer to a young boy.

2: Little monkey (馬騮仔 maa lau zai) - Cantonese, translates to little/young monkey. Used to describe a naughty child.

Okay there you go. Go ahead and judge me. I will gladly take my leave BYEEEEEEEE.