Shingeki no Kyojin/進撃の巨人 1. Prologue: New Beginning

**A/N: Just a short note about a few things: Eren's up to nineteen and Levi's aged down to twenty-two. I apologize in advance for slight OOC as well :3**

**Enjoy!**

**~•~**

**August 15, 2013**

**6:13 PM**

It was a slow lazy day in Titan Chronical Cafe. Eren leaned on the counter, dozing off into the boring news broadcast as he tried to distract himself from the mid summer heat and boredom. Usually, the small café would be packed with costumers buying coffee or pastry or leave their children here to listen to his mother tell stories in the brightly colored corner. He never understood why his mother called the café Titan Chronicle, but it still seemed to catch attention of many tourist and townspeople. Maybe it was the stories his mother had to tell about an alternative world about titans and how they affected civilization and how brave soldiers fought against them for humanity's freedom. Though his mother always sugar-coated the endings and certain parts of her story to keep it child appropriate.

A small chime came from the door and Eren looked up. A tall goofy looking girl looked around rapidly at the small decorations here and there in the café. Honestly, he curiosity to the café's decor wasn't unexpected nor was it new. It wasn't what you'd usually see in any ordinary café. What his mother visioned was a large gray wall drawn around the cafe with a few open cracks here and there, reveling half of a titan's face offering the illusion of a titan inside the wall. The Colossal as his mother called it peeked over the wall while smaller titans ran along the wall. They had strange-looking faces for comedic effect and many seem to like the idea.

His mother's imagination was something. The corner of his lips twitched to a smile as he thought about it. He didn't notice that strange-looking woman was inching closer and closer to him. Not until the woman invaded his personal space enough Eren could feel their breath on his head.

"Ah! What the-"

"You," The boy looked up quick to see the woman walking towards him. "You're perfect! Absolutely sexy! Well sexy would be too much as an overstatement... but you're cute!"

"Uh... thank...you?"

"Look at your eyes! Beautifully stunning! It crosses the border of green and blue, it's likes the ocean without all the impurities!" The woman declared, grasping Eren's shoulders tightly. "You look so cute, innocent, naïve, perfect!"

Eren let out a confused, ragged breath and tried to pry himself from the woman's surprising strong grip. "Ah, you have a slim body..."

"Ma'am, are you going to order anytime soon?" Eren asked slowly.

"I want to see it!"

"W-what?!"

"I want to see every inch of it! Let me see your body!"

"Ma-marco!" Eren shouted, he managed to break free of her grip but she caught his hand and pulled him back. This time determined not to let him go. "No no no, don't be afraid. I'm not gonna hurt you. I just want your body."

"Excuse me," The freckled boy stared at the scene before stepping between the woman and his coworker, smiling lightly at the woman. "Hello, welcome to Titan Chronical Cafe, how can I help you?" Marco's words were generic, nothing new to a coffee lover, but his voice was gentle and sweet. "I want his body, gimme the boy!"

Marco's face flushed and he giggled awkwardly. "Sorry miss, Eren's not for sale."

"I want him, he's prefect for modeling with Levi!"

"Levi?" Eren asked. He wasn't into social media and stuff like that. He definitely wasn't into the modeling world either. It wasn't a career he thought would be stable enough to give him good bright future. "Here" She dug into a large handbag and pulled card. "Take my card. By the way, my name is Hanji Zoe. I'm a scouting agent for Recon Corps Talent Agency."

Marco gripped Eren's sleeve and pulled him close. "This doesn't sound safe, Eren. How do we know if she's legit?"

"Oh no, I'm legit. You can call my boss and search my company."

"No thanks," Eren dismissed politely handing Hanji her card. She frowned. "But I honestly don't have what it takes for modeling. Sure I may have the "look" but I don't think it's the right choice."

Before Hanji could protest, a small chime came followed by an annoyed voice. "Oi shit glasses, how long does it take to get a fucking cup of coffee?"

"Levi! Just in time, short stuff!" The man shot a look at her and stood next to her. His eyes bounced from Eren to Marco then back to Eren, studying his features and look. Eren shifted his weight trying to hide his obvious discomfort. "This is Levi," she said before turning to the short man. "I found you a partneerr~" She chimed happily. Levi remained silent, still eyeing Eren as if he was a secret code he was trying to decipher and piece together.

"Eren, this is making me uncomfortable..." Marco whispered.

"Which one? The freckled shit is too tall to pose with. He's also looks shy as fuck and wouldn't' look right in the photo shoot." Levi said.

"He's right here you know," Eren interrupted, angered by the fact they were bashing Marco right in front of him. This is one of the reasons Eren hates celebrities. Just because you have a shitton of money doesn't mean you're better than anybody else. "And he's not too tall, you're too short. Why don't you get a step-stool so I can see your short ass." Eren leaned over the counter for a dramatic effect and to get his point across. Eren was a person who acts based upon his emotion more so than what his mind.

For midsummer, the temperature seemed to drop below zero. The man gave off a challenging glare and Eren didn't back out. He was much shorter than him, what the hell can a man of about five feet do to him? Marco stepped in defusing the heated fight rather quickly. "Don't worry, Eren. It doesn't bother me that much." He turned to Levi who rose a brow. "Is there anything you'd like? I can see you're in a hurry."

The two remained silent. Hanji glanced at Levi who only stared at Eren. He reached in his pocket and pulled out a black wallet followed by a twenty-dollar bill. "Medium coffee, black. And you," The man focused his attention on Eren. "I want you in my next photo shoot."

The brunette signed, running his fingers through his hair annoyed. "I'm not becoming a model."

"Why the hell not?"

"Why not? For starters, you insulted my friend,"

Marco spoke softly, "I said it was fine."

Eren continued. "And I have a well-paying job already. I can't go to school, complete assignments, attend class, model and work here on top of that. Plus I'm struggling to pay off my tuition fee. So I shouldn't add something distracting like modeling on top of that." The teen walked to the coffee machine and began to brew a fresh cup of coffee for the costumer.

"You said you have a tuition fee to pay off?" Levi asked. Eren glanced over his shoulder as he placed a top on the cup. "Yes." he answered simply.

The model thought for a moment before speaking. "Thanks," he said taking the cup from the barista.

"Anything else I can get you?"

"Large mocha cookie crumble frappuccino," Hanji called. She stuck her tongue out when Levi snarled at her when she was told specifically not to get anything. "Whipped cream." Hanji added.

"Anyway," Levi started. "I want to make a deal."

"...What kind of deal...?" Eren asked slightly concerned.

The model sipped on his coffee slowly. "If you agree to model with me in my next photo shoot, I'll pay off the rest of you and your boyfriend freckles over their tuition fee."

"He's not my boyfriend!" both boys shouted in unison, Marco a little louder than Eren.

"Could have fooled me," Levi said with a roll of his eyes. "But all bullshit aside, what do you say? An hour and a half in a photo session in trade a full paid tuition. Sounds like a good ass deal to me."

Eren handed Hanji her drink who sipped happily on it. He leaned on the counter in front of Levi thinking over his choice. Was it really so easy to make a deal like that? The logical part of Eren's brain whispered to him, Life is Never this Simple. Turn down the offer and continue on with your life and earn what your need to succeed. Use his mother as an example: she wasn't born with a silver spoon and neither as Eren. They struggled to survive on the cruel world but with his mother love and working odd jobs to keep her family feed, they made it.

But then again... his tuition would be paid off so he wouldn't need to use his portions of his paycheck to pay St. Rose university back and he would have more money for him and his mother. It was one little job that would pay off a large burden in his life.

"You don't have to. It's your choice, please remember that." Marco said with an understanding smile. Eren nodded his head and straightened his posture. "An hour and a half snapping photos... that's it?"

Levi nodded his head, drinking more coffee. "It's just a one time job."

"Today's a slow day," Eren mumbled. He turned to Marco who already read his mind. "Go ahead, I'll watch the shop. Just be careful. I don't know what I'll tell your mom if you get in trouble."

The boy smiled and removed his apron. "Alright, I accept, just one photo shoot." Hanji squealed happily and unlocked her phone. "I'll alert Erwin right away!" Eren smiled lightly at Hanji's enthusiasm and it finally struck him.

"Oh, and by the way, that'll be 6 dollars and 18 cents."

* * *

"Why is it called Titan Chronicle?" Hanji asked out of the blue. Eren looked up to see the agent peering in his face.

"U-um.. well my mom used to tell me stories about these creatures called Titans and brave people going into the war to protect humanity. But my mom alters the stories a lot. Though many people enjoy them."

"Ohhh~" Hanji cooed and jumped happily. "I want to hear the stories uncensored!"

Levi scoffed. "You make it sound like a bad porno." The woman rolled her eyes and looked at Eren. " Do you have any questions? You look like you have to throw up." Eren thought for a moment. "What kind of photo shoot will this be? Nothing nude right?"

"No, Levi would never be comfortable with that. Petra, our clothing director slash designer wants to promote her new fall clothing line for the upcoming season. And Erwin wants to start sales August 22nd. So this shoot will be a promo to get everybody pumped up!" Eren nodded. "Why do you need me to model with Levi then?"

"Because you'll balance out the "rough, serious edge" I bring to the photo. Petra wants a happy, preppy shots to give off a "fall feel." It'll more or less be like a test shoot to see how I'll look with a younger, innocent type." Levi answered.

The car pulled into the Recon Agency and Eren felt out-of-place. The building was about 50 meters tall with a sleek, clean design. When they entered, a cool breeze greeted Eren and he couldn't be happier for the advanced cooling system. His mother couldn't afford a heating or cooling system meaning rapid spinning ceiling fans and thickly knitted wool blankets during winter. Inside the building smelled like... an office. The smell of heated printing paper, freshly brewed coffee, and rose scent filled the air.

They walked to the elevator and went to the 38th floor.

Not many people resided in the hallway except for a few personal assistants, tall beautiful women and husky men walking around shifting room to room and exchanging small talk and laughs. They reached then end of the hallway and opened the door.

A woman with light ginger hair and amber-coloured eyes with her hair tied in a loose bun walked around rapidly performing different tasks. "Oi, Petra," Levi called. She froze midway and looked at the three. She then smiled. "Ah, Levi, Hanji," She stood in front of Eren and introduced herself, "I'm Petra as you can tell," She smiled. "Mr. Smith alerted me and said you're on your way."

Eren nodded his head. "I'm Eren... Eren Jeager." She hummed acknowledging Eren and walked around him. She walked around slowly taking in every detail of his body like a painter would to a new canvas figuring out what to do with the blank art to transform it into something new. Finally she clasped her hands together and paced to a curtain and pulled it back. "You have the perfect look for the shoot, Eren. You can head behind back and try on one of the outfits. Same goes to you, Levi."

**~•~**

Next thing Eren knew, he was standing in front of a black back drop in front of a camera. What the hell was he doing? Was modeling only about putting on different clothes and smiling for the camera? No, it was about modeling; posing and having fun and looking like you belong in the photo. But is Eren really able to pull it off?

"Alright Eren," Petra agusted her lens and smiled. "For starters, just smile for the first shot." Eren's photo session seemed to drag on. At first, Eren started out looking awkward. Staring at the camera uncomfortably, his body tensed with a fake smile and dull green eyes. But as Petra encouraged him on, he felt more confident. As he posed more freely and explored different facial expressions. "You really are photogenic." Petra said. She clicked through the photos nodding her head approvingly. "Levi, would you mind getting in the shot?"

Eren shifted his weight and suddenly felt nervous. The man is a professional model; Eren is nothing more than a rookie taking a few photos just for a paid tuition. "Hey Petra,"

"Yes?" She asked sweetly. "I don't think I should be in this." She looked up concerned. "Why not?"

"Well I don't think it'd be right."

"You said you'll pose with me if I pay off your college fee." Levi said.

"I know, but you're a professional." Eren offered dryly.

"He may be a professional but you have potential. You have a natural pull to the camera, Eren. You're a natural! It's hard to take the camera off you, let alone eyes." Petra started. "You have that sweet, innocent, soft look that contrasts with Levi's serious, risky look beautifully. Hanji and Levi made a good choice when they chose you for the photo shoot."

Eren blinked once. Then again. "I guess but-"

"Just one picture. Once you get comfortable, I'll snap the shot and it'll determine whether you're the right pick or not. Please, this means a lot to me, don't let me down." The woman positioned the camera, clicked a few buttons and focused the picture. "Levi, lean against the backdrop... good. Don't focus on the camera too much, Levi. Alright, now Eren, I want you to relax. Take a deep breath in and let it out."To Eren, Petra's words were like therapy. Soft, genuine, and trying to help. She's a sweet young woman whom Eren felt like he should trust. He was only a smile and a few poses away from a full paid debt him and his mother don't have to worry anymore.

So maybe... he should take a deep breath and smile for the camera.

* * *

**A/N: I'm sooo sorry I stopped there, I was afraid this was going to be too run on so I decided to stop it there. How was that? This chapter ia somewhat a test chapter to test out my writing abilities. This was just a plot that came to mind and I typed it out quick before I lost it. Should I continue? I want to hear your response :) Um... I think of I continue the rating may go up and there might be some triggers to drive the plot along as well as some twist and drama. **

**But all honesty, should I continue? Do you guys want to read more?**


	2. Chapter One: Hot Cocoa

**August 20, 2013**

**5:12 PM**

"I'm telling you ma'am, hot cocoa sales don't begin until the temperature starts dropping, so order something else or leave." The young barista hated to sound rude but the woman was seriously getting on his last nerves.

The woman huffed she crossed her arms like a spoiled child and began to rant. "This costumer service is terrible, how the hell do you not sell hot cocoa in a café but you can sure as hell service coffee and tea but I don't want either of those things! I'm a paying costumer and I can't get what I want!"

Eren rolled his eyes. "Sorry, our motto isn't "Have it your way"

"Isn't that written in your employee handbook?"

Eren blinked clearly dumbfounded by her question. "Our motto is ... well we don't have one, but why do you want hot chocolate in the middle of August? It's high ninety outside."

"I want your manager!"

"And I want your off button, but I don't seem to be getting what I want, do I?" The barista smirked softly as the woman stepped back gasping dramatically. The woman snatched her purse off the counter. "I will never order from this establishment again."

Ah, the sweet sound of an angry costumer storming out the café.

Lovely.

Eren pushed his hair out his face before another chime was heard. "Good morning Eren," He looked up and was taken back. To his surprise, it was Petra. She walked in with a warm smile and a brown envolope in hand. "Petra?"

"Surprised much?" She slid into a stool in front of Eren and set down the envelope. "What are you doing here?"

"What, I can't visit you? I'm hurt." She said with a teasing pout.

"No, no, that's not it. I didn't expect to see you. Would you like anything?" Petra scanned the menu quickly. "How about a Hazelnut Macchiato, medium please."

"Commin' right up." Eren smiled. A small silence lurked in the air and Eren handed Petra her drink. "Thank you," she took a quick sip before speaking. "I have your photos."

Eren walked around the counter and sat next to the woman. "We've started promoting my clothing line and the photos you and Levi taken really got some positive feedback from social media."

"Really? I haven't seen anything online involving me." Well... then again, he doesn't worry nor check social sites... but a lot of people in the city do check social media but not many people seem to recognize him on the streets and such.

"Have you checked?"

"No."

"What about on celebrity gossip channels?" She turned to the small flat screen TV hooked up to the wall. "You haven't changed the channel from the news, right?"

"Maybe..." Petra rolled her eyes with a small smile as response. "Take a look at the photos."

The first photo was simple; it was Eren's headshots. A simple zoomed in photo focusing on his face and complimenting his features. There 1:1 (or 6:6) traditional square format photos but slightly different from one another facial expression wise.. One with his usual bright smile and sparkling eyes. The second, a cocky confident smirk just to explore the boundaries a little. "The original shots were given to Erwin, the owner of Recon Agency. He asked me to create a portfolio for you, with copies of the photos taken. So if we need you again we'll give you a call."

"It was a one time job. I'm not looking for modeling job or a career in modeling. It's not something I want to do in my life."

Petra nodded understanding. "Many are wondering who you are. Some photographers are requesting you for their sessions already, Eren!"

"I'm really sorry but the answer's no."

Petra sighed. "I'm not going to force you to do something you don't want, but I wanted to invite you to my clothing release party tomorrow at seven PM. Since you were a big help, I want you to come with your family and friends."

"Isn't that a lot? I mean I only modeled, it's not like I did something spectacular."

Petra smiled. "It's not a lot, plus I'm inviting you. It's a way to say thank you," Petra slid off the booth and handed Eren fifteen dollars. "Will this cover the cost?"

Eren nodded and gave Petra back eight dollars. "It's only seven fifty."

"Alright. Oh, and Eren,"

"Yes?"

"You're invite is in the envelope, I'm hoping to see you at the party. Don't be afraid to invite people, I'd love to meet your family." And with that, she left with high hopes.

**~•~**

**8:56 PM**

The sun finally set over the city and Eren cleaned the counter top of the café while his mother closed up shop. His eyes continuously wandered over to the brown envelope containing his photos and invitation. Sometimes, he found himself glancing over unintentionally. No matter how much he tried to distract himself, he kept thinking about Petra, the launch party, and the photo shoot.

"Hey mom..." He mumbled. She stood on her tip toes to adjust a thick book on the top shelf in the story telling corner. "Hn?" She hummed.

"I... I wanted to invite you to a special party." She turned around and smirked. "Don't you think I'm a little too old to be tagging along at a college party? What if you find a girl you want to-"

"Mom!"

She laughed and slapped Eren's shoulder lightly. "I'm only joking, you're so sensitive."

Eren rolled his eyes. "Well it is a girl party-"

"You're finally coming out the closet?! I'm so happy for you!"

"Stop it." His face flushed and he sighed in his hand. "I'm not gay... and I mean it's a party for Petra... well I um... I did a small job for her clothing line,"

"You mean modeling?" She asked as she removed her apron and folded it. "Yes."

Carla raised a brow. "I never took you as the modeling type."

"Ha, me neither..." He slid on top of the café counter and continued, "But I have some pictures from the job and... well... here..."

His mother took the envelope from her son and examined the photo. A smile kissed her lips as she looked at the photos. Finally she said, "These are lovely photos... you know you get your looks from me, right?"

Eren groaned. "Mooooom, stooop it. You can't come if you keep teasing me like this."

"If you don't invite me, I'll follow you there and find your potential wife~"

"You won't stop will you?"

"Nope,"

"Fine...you can come." She smiled and kissed his forehead. "Congratulations, sweet heart. I'm proud of you."

Eren smiled. "Thanks. But it's not a career I'm hoping to excel in." A small vibration came from the kitchen counter making Eren's heart jump a little. "Is that your girlfriend?"

"I don't have a girlfriend, and it's Armin."

"What did he say?"

"Turn on the TV channel 23 and quick." He slid off the counter top and grabbed the remote, quickly flipping through the channels.

"Ah! What a doll that boy is! Just look at him, Sammie!" The brunette woman exclaimed.

The woman called Sammie nodded her head before turning her attention to the audience. "Mhm, you got that right. The new clothing line by Petra Ral will be hitting the market tomorrow noon and these boys are definitely drawing the right attention, especially the boy next to Levi."

The woman leaned over and buried her face in Sammie's shoulder and squealed happily. She then turned to the camera. "We all know and love Levi as the serious type to bring that sexy, dark theme to the photo; but Petra brought in an entirely different element and mixed it in; almost as mixing darkness and light."

"Well we all know one thing, that boy is absolutely adorable and I'd love to know who he is. Am I right? Who else wants to know who this boy is?" Eren's phone vibrated again.

**Armin: Did y****ou see it?**

**Eren: Y****eah**

**Armin: ****When did you... how..you're famous, Eren!**

**Eren: I wouldn't necessarily say famous.**

**Armin:You're on TV though!**

**Eren: So...?**

**Armin: Don't act like you're not the least bit excited :P**

**Eren: :) I kinda am... but I don't want things to get out of hand where media's concerned. **

**Armin: I don't want you to get caught up in the fame. What if you become starstruck?**

**Eren: Don't be ridiculous, Armin. I'll be off the TV in a week. Anyways, are you doing anything tomorrow around seven?**

**Armin: Yeah, sorry :( I'm really busy with a semester project Annie, Jean, Marco and I have to finish for science.**

Eren sighed.

**Eren: Don't worry, it's not a big deal anyway. Good night.**

**Armin: ...**

**Armin: I'll make it up to you**

**Armin: Goodnight.**

Eren turned to his mother and slid his phone in his pocket. "Looks like it's just me and you."

* * *

**August 21, 2013**

**4:36 PM**

**3 hours before the release party**

Eren felt guilty. His mother gave him nine hundred and fifty dollars from her savings for him to buy a suit, tie and shoes for tonight's event. It made him feel terrible knowing he had to take all that money from his mother, but she insisted and there was no argument out up. He walked along side shopping buildings which he never thought he'd be walking into. The furthest he's gotten to any of these businesses was outside window shopping before the store manager scolded him and Armin for loitering on property. But he never expected to be walking inside any of the stores.

He walked inside a large store called Esquire and immediately got bad looks from the workers and shoppers. Maybe it's because they saw the TV last night?

...Nope...

"Excuse me uh... sir..." The man elongated sir with obvious disgust. It was like saying "sir" to Eren was a virus and he didn't want to catch it. "But what exactly do you think you're doing in here?"

Eren wrinkled his nose. "Obviously I'm here to buy something. I'm looking for a suit for tonight."

"Yes, I'm sure you are,"

"What the hell is that supposed to mean?!" Eren asked. His voice drew attention from nearby costumers. "This is a fine enterprise, not a playground."

"Shut the hell up. I'm a paying costumer and this is how I'm treated?!" Oh great. Now he was starting to sound like the old hag from yesterday morning.

"Paying costumer? You're a boy, just look at how you're dressed. You're dressed the equivalent of a thrown around peasant. I'm a man of high standards. Please, remove yourself from the premises before I call the police to have you escorted."

Eren growled. "Fuck you, fuck your "high standards", just fuck rich snobs all together." Eren hates rich people. Simply put. Especially the "High Class" from the Sina District. Without another word, Eren left the store. There was nothing different about him from others. The only thing "different" about Eren and the civilians of Sina is his clothing. A worn out ACDC T-shirt, black pants and black converse. Sure it's not Gucci, Prada, or Dior but that doesn't mean he had no money to spend. Sure him and Carla are on a tight budget but that didn't translate to them being peasants.

Eren walked a few blocks down and made a sharp left in search of another formal store. One stupid suit for one important night is giving him so much trouble. He looked through every grand window awestruck by the grand designs and bright lights brightening the stores and displays. But the brightest store caught his attention and he found himself walking inside. The store's air wrecked over mixed perfumes, and many women looked at him like he was a foreigner with weaponry.

A soft tap on his shoulder, "You're in the wrong store." A woman with a monotone yet strong voice said. He turned around and took a step back when she removes her sunglasses. "L-levi?!"

The girl's eyes narrowed a little. "I'm not Levi. There's a slight problem physically and voice wise." The woman had long ebony hair that reaches her shoulders, her eyes were a steel-gray like Levi and her lips were painted a soft red. "I'm Mikasa... I'm his younger sister..." Eren noted her scowl on the words younger sister.

"I didn't know he had a sister,"

Mikasa nodded her head. "I'm Eren."

"I know. Petra's told me about you... what are you doing in a woman's store?"

Eren looked around and sighed. "I'm not... used to the Sina District. I'm looking for a suit for Petra's party in a few hours and I went inside a store earlier and I got kicked out."

"Why?"

"I'm not a fucking royal, that's why." Eren said crossing his arms. Mikasa took Eren's wrist _and_ dragged him out the store. "Follow me."

**~•~**

A black suit folded neatly in a bag, shiny black dress shoes and a simple black tie. The fresh smell of a new suit felt so foreign to his sense but absolutely delighted him.

A towel drapped around his dripping locks as he texted Mikasa.

**Eren: Are you going to the party too?**

**Mikasa: Yes.**

**Eren: Do you model for Petra like Levi?**

**Mikasa: No. I'm not a model, I'm a personal trainer. I own a gym downtown Sina. And Levi doesn't only model for Petra.**

Eren dried his hair and pulled on his dress pants and buttoned up his white dress shirt. He glanced at his phone.

**Petra: We'll be at the café in about fifteen minuets :)**

Eren smiled and texted Thank You back. His mother and him couldn't afford a car and planned on walking to the event, but Petra volunteered to pick them up and arrive at the event at once.

Eren slid his suit jacket and googled How to tie a tie.

**~•~**

"Where the hell is that shitty brat?" Levi groaned, rolling up the sleeve of his tuxedo to check the time. They have to be there in fifty-five minuets and Levi would much rather not be late.

The door to the Hanji's SUV opened followed by a smiling Carla, a blushing Eren and a happy Petra with a Hazelnut Macchiato.

* * *

A/N: Thank you for the reviews, follow and favorites!

Encouraged me to continue and I'm writing out chapter 2 now and I'm trying to push the plot forward. I'm so sorry for any misspellings and such •~•. English is not my first language.

Ah, I know strange way to introduce Eren to Mikasa :3 but had to be done. I will be posting a new chapter every two to four days; but mostly two to three. That's all for now!

Review Response:

Kikisan333: Thanks for the review ^_^ I didn't think I'd get a review on the first chapter so when I saw yours it made me smile. :)


	3. Chapter Two: Hazelnut Macchiato

The sweet, savory aroma of food tickled Eren's senses making him drool. Paparazzi snooped around looking for exclusive shots and gossip, rich snobs exchanged conversation and his mother seemed to blend in rather nicely with the high-class crowd. Petra's home was beautiful. Classy and elegant, decorated simply for the event. Her home was large and modern; obviously expensive. Eren swore if he broke anything, heck, if he made so much as a speckle of dirt on the floor he'd owe an arm, leg, and an internal organ.

Her home was much better than living upstairs in the café.

_Long live the rich. _Eren thought sarcastcally. Eren tucked his hand away in his pants pocket and fished out his phone.

No messages.

No missed calls.

No voicemails.

He missed Armin. Even though Carla's having a good time, Eren wished Armin was at his side making side remarks and funny jokes. He needed something to lighten his day.

He sighed and poured himself a glass of wine before heading out to balcony. To his surprise Levi already beat him there. Eren stood for a moment taking in Levi from behind. (Please don't think wrong.) His suit clung to his body, showing off Levi's built stature. His hair look somewhat messy but not a hair looked out-of-place. He leaned over the balcony, enjoying the night air and soft winds.

"Oi brat, what the hell are you doing?" He mumbled.

Eren took a few steps closer. "I could ask the same to you."

The man took a sip of red wine before responding, allowing the sweet taste delight his taste buds. "I can do whatever the hell I feel like, and I felt like escaping those media whore pigs called paparazzi inside. Does that answer your question?"

Eren shrugged, leaning over the balcony. He stared at the red drink. "I guess so..."

"Why aren't you in there?"

"I feel a little homesick, that's all. I'm not used to all this. Usually by now I'd be upstairs studying or something."

"Ahh," Levi breathed. "That reminds me," He dug in his pocket and pulled out a sleek black checkbook. "How much is your tuition?"

Eren forgot. He actually forgot about his deal because of all the sudden turn of events in his life. "You know, it's not a big deal right now."

"I'm not begging. We made a deal and I'm keeping my end."

"Currently, I'm not sure what the cost of my tuition is." Eren lied.

"Stop fucking shitting me, I had to deal with enough bullshit tonight."

A soft knock came from the balcony door. "We're about to make the announcement." Petra said. Without a word Levi swallowed the rest of his wine and stormed into the home. Petra sighed defeated before turning on her heels and walking inside.

It was official. Eren missed Armin and there is no question about it.

**~•~**

The clicking off glass and the large room quieted down within a matter of seconds. Eren walked into the home with his glass still in hand, full.

Petra stood with a growing smile on her face. "I'd like to thank everybody for taking time out of their busy schedules to make it here tonight. I'd like to thank the Recon Talent Agency for many oppertunites and I'd like to thank Erwin."

The crowd cheered before she continued. "I'd also like to thank Levi for agreeing to be in the photo shoot. But my heart goes out to one special person tonight," her eyes locked with Eren's for and she motioned him on stage. He looked around slightly confuses before finding the willpower to walk next to the ginger haired woman. "I'd like to thank Eren for bringing the look to the photo. Many photographers have done a dark mix with light contrast in photos but Eren really stood out along side Levi. So without further ado,"

She took a few steps back and smiled. "This is the official release for my new fall clothing line, Hazelnut Macchiato"

**~•~**

The party finally came to an end and only close affiliations to Petra were allowed to stay for dinner. Meaning no paparazzi, no obnoxious people, just close friends and family.

"Hazelnut Macchiato?" Eren mumbled to Petra. She giggled. "Hey, what can I say? It grew on me." She sat down to the dinning room table along with Hanji, Carla, Erwin, Mikasa, Levi, and her current boyfriend Auruo.

"I thank you all for coming."

"It was a pleasure to invite us." Carla ate her sweet potato, enjoying the taste. "Its rare for Eren and I to have such foods. We don't have a lot of money to spend. With owning the shop and paying bills and Eren's education, money is a burden."

Levi glanced at Eren hearing the words "Eren's Education" and "Money is a burden." which made Eren shift uncomfortable in his seat, picking away at his food.

"If money's a struggle, It wouldn't be too much to have Eren model in the future, would it?" Erwin asked. Carla remained silent and looked at Eren who made a face. "I think that's up to Eren," Carla said. "Right?"

Eren nodded his head. " it's not a big chance I will."

The blonde man nodded his head understanding Eren's answer. "I heard you're a college student, what are you studying?"

"Marine Biology."

"So..." Auruo interrupted slowly. It was obvious he had something to say. His eyes kept glancing at Petra and his foot tapped uneasy under the table. "I believe there's a reason we invited them all here..."

Petra nodded slowly, swallowing the last bit of food. "You're right..." She along with Auruo stood. She clasped her hands together tightly and began. "A few nights ago, Auruo has done something very... special." Levi noticed she spoke slow and chose her words careful which threw him off a bit.

"I'd like to announce Petra and I's engagement." Aurou smiled. A few claps, an over excited Hanji, and an pissed Levi. Eren noticed Levi's frustration, but before he could say anything Mikasa kicked him lightly with her foot. "Don't say anything." She mumbled.

"Why?"

The sound of a chair moving across the floor followed by his jacket shuffling and folding. Levi cleared his throat awkwardly. "Thank you for the meal and hospitality. Also congrats on your release party and... en-engagment... but I think I should head home, it's getting late and I have work I need to finish up."

The room fell dreadfully silent when the model left. Petra shook her head disapprovingly before she faked a happy voice. "Well, let's finish our meal, shall we?"

Mikasa signaled Eren by tapping his foot and whispered, "There's a tough tension between Levi, Petra and Auruo."

'Why is that?" The woman didn't respond. Instead she turned back to her meal ignoring Eren's question.

"Um... I'm going to the bathroom." Eren dismissed quickly. As he left the room, he cursed himself mentally for using such a stupid lie. He looked around the big home before noticing the front door unlocked.

With soft steps, he walked over and exited.

Eren shut the door quietly behind him. The barista looked around the entrance and saw a short figure waiting by the front gate. "Levi.." he called, he paced quickly to the shorter male who rolled his eyes as soon as he heard Eren's voice. "Are you alright?"

"Shut the fuck up."

"...You were upset just about the entire night."

"Well thank you Mr. It's so fucking obvious, I couldn't tell."

Eren rolled his eyes and sat down besides the gate. "You're going to ruin your suit like that."

Eren looked up and shrugged off his words. "It's no big deal. I'll try to pay my mother back the money."

There was a small silence before Eren broke it. "Why did you bail like that?"

The man ran his hands through his locks, pushing them out of his face. He sat besides Eren and said lowly, "I have my reasons, shitty brat."

"...It's Petra and Auruo, right?"

"How much did Mikasa tell you?"

"Not a lot, just a tension between you three." Levi's eyebrow rose and fell. "It's none of your fucking business. You're just as fucking bad as paparazzi."

"If there's a tension between you and Petra, why did you agree to do the photo shoot?"

"Because I'm not going to sabotage Petra and I's career over some petty bullshit argument. It's childish to let something like that come between something that gives us the necessities to live," Levi stood and dusted himself off. "I'm heading home."

"Can I come with?"

Levi glanced back. "Won't your mother be worried?"

"...No, I'll call her and say I wasn't feeling well so I headed home."

Levi scoffed. "I'll look like a pedophile if I take a child home. How old are you? Thirteen? Fourteen? I can't take a minor with me."

Levi smirked a little, somewhat pleased with Eren's reaction. "I'm nineteen. Which way are you headed."

"SinaDonna Lakes, way off from Rose Capitol."

"Then when we have to split, I'll head home." Levi rolled his eyes and shoved his hands into his pocket. "Sure, bring your stubborn little ass. But if a cop pulls us over and asks what I'm doing with an eleven year old girl, you better have an excuse."

* * *

**August 23, 2013**

**11:12 AM**

It's been a day since Petra's clothing line, Hazelnut Macchiato been released. It's been two days since the release party and engagement and his small encounter with his one in a life time modeling partner. He could faintly remember the small talk of mature, dark humor from the man while Eren tried to talk about the café and living style.

The man was... strangely comforting. He was really down to earth which Eren enjoyed. But the vulgar, bitter conversations through him off. "You seem happy today," Marco walked in the door and walked behind the counter. "How did the photoshoot go?"

"Hm? It was fine. Do I really seem happy? I don't feel like it..."

Marco shrugged, tieing his apron around his neck and waist before standing next to Eren. "You're becoming a trending topic,"

Eren looked up. "What?"

Marco nodded his head scrolling through his Twitter feed. "Look, your name is a trending topic on media sites, I thought that's why you seem so happy."

Eren shook his head. "No... can I see your phone?"

The freckled brunette nodded. Eren scanned the screen and saw #Erin under trending topic. "This isn't me, My name's spelled with another "e" not "i"

Marco nodded his head. "I know that but I was curious and when I clicked it photos of you showed up."

Without second thought, he clicked the hash tag.

Over a hundred fake Eren accounts, all consisting of incorrect spelling of his first or last name showed up under results.

Last time Eren checked his name wasn't Erin or Eryn. And his surname definitely wasn't Mchottie or GorgeousEyes and his username most certinally wouldn't be

OhmaigodErinorErynishotnosexymybodyisreadyIWantYourBodyIWantYourChildren16...

Interesting...

As he scrolled down the results, he saw some... unique usernames but it wasn't until he saw a fan account titled ErinAndLeviAckerman

Ackerman?

That was Levi's last name? Unless they thought Eren's surname was Ackerman. But didn't Mikasa say her last name was Ackerman? He wouldn't dare click on the link, but he couldn't help but notice the thousands of retweets. And the retweeting was growing bigger by the second.

A chime, followed by the door slamming open and an angry midget marching inside.

"Levi? What's got your panties in a tw-"

"You better shut the hell up Jeager. I will not fucking hesitate to drop kick your sorry ass into your grave!" Levi shot a look at Marco and growled, "If I were you, I'd take my freckled ass somewhere else."

"Y-y-y-es sir..." Once Marco cleared the room, Levi began.

"Are you fucking stupid? Don't you realize how this could jeopardize my career?!"

"What are you talking about?" The short man took a deep breath and sat down a stool trying his hardest to calm himself down before he died of a heart attack. And he wasn't looking forward to dying before his thirties.

"Have you seen the gossip? This bullshit is spreading around like wildfire." He mumbled.

"Do you want something to drink?" The man looked up. If looks could kill, Eren's sorry ass would be burning in Hell. Eren took an uneasy step in case the man was thinking reaching over and choking him. He rubbed the back of his neck and muttered a soft "Sorry..."

"Does your shitty ass have any idea what's going around in media right now?"

Eren shook his head making Levi groan. He locked eyes with Eren; a serious, deadly glare in his steel eyes yet completely unreadable. Levi could say anything and it would catch Eren off guard. "The bastards think we have a "secret affair" going on."

...

"Haha, very funny Levi! You almost got me there! Hahaha...ha...ha...why...why aren't..you laugh...ing?"

"I'm so fucking serious about this, shitstain. Why the fuck would I joke about something like that?"

Jesus Christ Eren. Way to make the conversation more fucking awkward than it needs to be. Eren bit his bottom lip and gripped the counter trying to search for the right words to say. "Why do they think that?"

"Because of _your _dumbass," Levi added too much emphasis on your before he continued. "If you stayed with everybody else at dinner, they wouldn't believe this crap."

"How is this my fault?!"

"You should've stayed behind; if you stayed with everyone else, paparazzi wouldn't be on our ass to get this."

Levi took out his phone quickly typing on his pass code and held the phone out. Blood rushed to Eren's cheek as he realized what the photo was. A blurred image of a cameraman hiding in nearby bushes snapping a quick shot of Levi standing on his tip toes as if... kissing..him...

It made sense now. That's why he was so popular online. That's why people kept making fake accounts. Why _ErinandLeviAckerman existed._

"T-this is fake! We didn't-"

"I know," Levi said annoyed. "We didn't kiss, yeah yeah yeah but that's not the point. Only we know what actually happened and I didn't come here to waste my time arguing with you."

"Then what do you want?"

Eren watched Levi slowly drift away in thought, obvious trying to choose his words wisely so he wouldn't throw Eren off. "I want you to go out with me."

"What?! I'm not going out with you!"

"We're not actually dating, dumbass. Hanji checked social sites earlier and saw you're becoming popular with the brainless brats online. Since you're such a fan favorite, I... I decided to get more publicity for the Recon Agency, you and I, we should give the shits what they want." Levi explained.

Eren's eyes narrowed. This is a stupid, reckless idea. Even for someone like him. Again, the battle between logical and outcome came to mind. If he did this, who knows what kind of money he could get for him and his family. A modern home, maybe a car, they'd be set for life... he could be the man his father never was...

"What do you want? Money?" Levi pulled out his wallet and waited for Eren's request. "I don't want your money. You can't buy your way through life, ya know." The man slid his wallet back into his pocket along with his phone. "I'm aware of that. I'm not buying my way through life. I'm buying you."

"You make me sound like a prostitute." Levi tsked and wrinkled his nose. "I wouldn't know you if you were a prostitute. I don't settle on women who have no respect or themselves. I don't sleep with prostitutes. I don't pay for them, I don't speak to them, hell, I feel filthy looking at them."

"...So you respect me?"

Levi shrugged. "I guess you can that. So what do you say brat? A few weeks living in the shoes of a celebrity. Plus if you land more modeling jobs you'll get a well-paying paycheck. Especially since you're in high demand from higher agencies."

"How long do I have to do this?"

"Until you and I are out of the pigs' mouthes."

"What if that's in a week."

"Then we'll pretend to be a couple for a week."

"Then I'll continue on with my normal life? As if nothing happened?"

"Not exactly. You'll live a normal life but people will still recognize you."

Eren nodded his head slowly, coming to a conclusion. "Alright then. I'll do it."

**~•~**

**11:34 AM**

"It's simple, you brat. We give them what they want." Eren and his "boyfriend" Levi sat in a booth trying to escape the blistering heat.

"Do we hold hands and stuff?" The brunette mixed around ice in his strawberry sweet tea attempting to defuse the awkward tension he was feeling. How could he not feel weird? He's "dating" a rich model for a week because an altered and blurred image surfaced the internet and sparked positive controversy from many fans of Eren and Levi basically forcing them together for more fame.

Way to sum up the current situation at hand... how the hell is he supposed to tell his mom this?!

Hey mom, I'm dating this hot model just to please the fan girls. Aren't you so fucking proud of me?

Wait a second...hot...? Levi hot? Shut up Eren, turn off your brain, just shut it down.

"Are you listening to me?"

"...Hmn? Oh...Oh.. yeah, mhn..."

"What did I just say?"

"..."

Levi rolled his eyes and rubbed his temples. "We only hold hands when necessary. Other than that, no."

"Okay..."

"Also, you should also visit me. It'd look off if we're not around each other often."

"Isn't that too pushy?"

"It's not like you're trespassing."

"I see..." Eren drank his drink slowly. "Is that it?"

"For now, yes." Levi said. "Questions? Ask 'em now because I have a meeting soon."

"Can I have your number?"

The man arched a slim brow. Without a word, he reached across the table and took Eren's phone, punching in his number. "Don't give anybody my number. Bad enough I have to keep you as an acqantiance, I don't want your shit friends begging for my autograph too."

"I thought I was your _boyfriend_." Eren said with an amused expression and a teasing voice. Levi smirked lightly. "Don't piss yourself," he gathered his belongs and walked to the exit.

"And if anything, you're my girlfriend."

* * *

A/N: Annnnd chapter two is complete! Thank you guys for the love on this story so far! Everyone who reviewed, follow and added it to your favorites! Kudos to you guys! Is it strange my best friend has OhmaigodErensohotnosexymybodyisreadyIWantYourBodyIWantYourChildren16 written on her backpack?... No? Okay, cool. She wrote that after her boyfriend broke up with her. So remember ladies, if your man breaks your heart, write a rant on your bag about an anime character to piss your ex off. Don't foget to mention their an actual person. ;)

Oh my little freckle baby, I'm so sorry Levi is abusing you!

Chapter 3 will be posted sometime around Tuesday or Wendsday. Thanks for the support! :3

Review Response:

Guest: Thanks for the comment! Nice to know you enjoy the fic so far!


	4. Chapter Three: Sugar Cookies

**September 4th, 2013**

It's been three weeks since Levi and Eren started "dating" and by now they thought the media would have forgotten all about their latest scandal but it was still a trending discussion.

Eren wasn't sure why he was here... but here he was. Standing outside a grand home looking like a lost puppy. He looked down at the text Levi sent him not too long ago.

**Levi: Oi brat, bring your ass over here and quick. If you take a cab or bus, I'll pay**

**16065 N Sinadonna Lakes (Give anybody my address you'll gonna have to shit your phone out later.)**

**The code for the entrance gate is 104**

**Don't bring your shitty friends and make sure paparazzi isn't following you.**

**Eren: I'm outside and I already paid bus fare.**

After a few moments his phone buzzed.

**Levi: Do you want a fucking invite? Get your ass in here, the door's ulocked.**

**Levi: And take your filthy shoes off, I don't want you trailing dirt into my house**

The brunette slid his phone into his jacket pocket and jogged to the large front door, amazed by its height. It wasn't huge like the other homes he saw down the block, but it was a sight. He could imagine how the community looked around Christmas! And the smell of Thanksgiving! or even better the lights flaring into the sky and exploding into color on New Years.

Eren took off his shoes, pushed open the door and walked inside.

The TV was on. The sound of Sherlock Holmes mixed in with Erwin and Levi's conversation and Hanji losing herself in the television.

"Hey um.. Levi," Eren called.

"In the kitchen, and lock the door behind you." Eren did as told and walked slowly into the modern home. It wasn't... bombastic or unusual. But that would be uncharacteristic of Levi, wouldn't it? But Eren had expected a few creepy things lurking around the home. But it was a friendly greeting into the home instead of a "walk on my lawn expect to have your limbs dangling in front of you." vibe.

Through he had a feeling Levi would do that.

The decor was minimum. Nothing over the top. As he caught sight of a shadow, he made a left assuming that's the kitchen. When he entered, Levi was leaning over the counter propped up on his elbows in a blank tank and black slacks. He was reading over a paper Erwin given him to skim over. He noticed Levi's reading glasses and smirked.

"So you're blind and short?"

Levi glanced over and snorted.

"Hello Eren, I see Levi has invited you here too?" The brunette nodded his head and walked over to the blonde man, sliding onto the stool next to him. "I don't know why though. I was helping my mom around shop and he texted me."

"How's Carla?" Erwin asked.

"She's doing alright...Do you..."

Erwin raised a brow with a soft smirk. "I like to keep in touch with my client's family. You should meet Levi's grandmother-"

"Erwin, the brat doesn't need to know."

The man leaned over to Eren and whispered, "His grandmother's ninety-three and wanted me to stay the night."

Levi noticed Eren's facial change and said, "Have fun thinking about that tonight," Gray eyes looked up and locked with the two as he stood and fixed his posture. "I'll read over this later. Anyways, Eyebrows, I invited you and four eyes here to talk about my plan for the Recon Corps. I'm sure you wouldn't mind a few white lies."

"Don't bother me, short stuff!" Hanji called from the living room.

"Wasn't planning to. Just don't orgasm on my fucking couch, I'll make you lick it up!" Hanji laughed as response.

"Was that really necessary?" Erwin asked shaking his head disapprovingly.

"I'll make you lick it up with her. Boss or not."

"Ah, you haven't changed a bit." Erwin said with sarcasm. "No more bullshit." Levi snapped lightly. "I'm sure you heard about the rumors going around."

"I'm happy you've moved on, Eren is a cute one."

"Dammit Eyebrows, I don't like this bastard, that photo is fake and blurred as fuck."

"Blurred because of censorship...?"

"I'm so fucking done with this shit." Erwin laughed as Levi tried to retain his anger and not throw the nearest kitchen knife at his work provider. "Stop being a dickbag for one minuet and let me explain."

The blonde raised a thick brow and pinched the bridge of his nose holding back more laughs and mumbled, "Continue."

Levi relaxed, sliding himself into a seat in front of Erwin. "Since Eren is receiving positive feedback from the media, fans, and that photo surfaced the internet we've agreed to get more recognition for the Recon Agency. Eren and I are in a false relationship to bring more attention to your facility."

Erwin turned to Eren. "Is that true?" Eren looked up lost in his thoughts and nodded quickly. "Yes sir."

"Now Eren, do you really want to do this? You don't have to you know, you have as much say in this as Levi." Eren felt Levi's intimidating eyes staring through him as if burning his soul and forcing him to say yes out of fear.

"Alright then. As long as your both on the same boat I have no problem with it. But you two have to make the act believable. You never know when someone's around to get the dirt on you and sell you out. And if the media finds out this is all just a big hoax, expect to be out of work."

"Why?" Eren asked slowly. "The Recon Agency's reputation would be ruined along with mine. Nobody likes to be lied to, meaning I would lose business."

"People lie all the time."

The man nodded his head slowly. "You're right. But that's how it works."

"Erwin!" Hanji came running into the kitchen, knocking over a nearby vase and accidentally stepping on the cat's tail making the animal growl in pain and anger. "Oops, sorry Isabel." The cat purred angrily and walked towards its owner, rubbing affectionately at Levi's leg.

"Why the hell do you have to destroy my property? You'd think with those big ass glasses on your face you'd not knock shit over and step on my cat." He scolded angrily. He leaned down and scratched behind Isabel's ears. When the cat purred and settled, he turned back to the group.

"You have a cat?" Eren asked. Levi made a face that said _what the fuck does it look to you? _Eren chewed his bottom lip softly, mentally cursing himself for asking such a stupid question. But he couldn't help but think about the cat's name a few times. It didn't seem like a name he'd name a pet.

"Like I said, sorry. Anyway, Erwin, I just got off the phone with Garrison and they scheduled a meeting with you in about twenty minuets," Hanji said.

Erwin glanced at his watch. "That's fine."

Hanji continued. "But that's not all, they also scheduled a meet and greet in Book'afe for Eren and Levi today from twelve thirty to one thirty and-"

"Who the hell do they think they are? I never agreed to do a meet and greet, let alone on such short notice!" Levi exclaimed. He narrowed his eyes at Hanji who giggled seeing his frustration.

"What? Little boy doesn't wanna meet his fans? Hmm? You afraid you're gonna get trampled by fan girls?" she clung her arm around Levi's neck and pulled him close putting him in a head lock.

"Oi! Let me go! Hanji I will shove those fucking glass so far down your throat they'll-"

"Levi." Erwin said sternly.

"What if I have something planned around that time?" Levi asked.

"...Do you?" Hanji asked with a goofy voice.

"No. But keep this up and I'll be hiding your body around that time."

"Oh, stop it. You know you won't hurt me~" She cooed.

"Ya wanna bet, shitface?"

"What about you Eren? Do you wanna do a meet and greet? It's not always about you, Levi." Erwin said, slightly annoyed by his comrade's behavior.

Eren shrugged. "I don't mind as long as they don't become pests I'm fine with it."

Erwin smiled lightly and turned to Levi. "Since Eren agreed, you have to do it to." Levi growled, attempting to slam his hand into Hanji's stomach but she unhooked her lock before he could. She jumped teasingly and crossed her arms amused.

"I don't have to to this, let the brat go by himself. Does he needs to be spoon feed all the time? Put your big boy pants on and grow some balls."

"Aren't you two a couple?" Erwin said.

"No!... Well... yes. Goddamn it!" The short man ran his hands through his ebony locks and sighed heavily.

"Fine. One fucking hour of underaged girls creaming themselves while social pigs force cameras into our face and bombard us with questions... ugh, I've been through worse."

He turned to Hanji. "Tell Garrison never again plan an event without notification nor our consent."

"Will do~" She sang happily. "It's half past the hour and I'm starving. I'm driving," She snatched the keys off the counter and ran towards the door, Levi on her heels. "Touch my car and I'll end you!"

"You'll have to catch me first, midget!"

Hanji's laugh and Levi's rage echoed through the home. Erwin smiled and slung an arm around Eren's shoulder. "You should get used to those two. It's a never-ending game of cat and mouse with them."

**~•~**

The sun blared down on the city but the chilling winds coming in kept the area down to a cool low eighties, high seventies. Levi growled in the front seat while the loud pathetic pop music blared through the speakers by none other than Hanji. He gripped the wheel angered by his coworker's taunting. So close, he is _so close _to unbuckling her seat belt, slamming on the breaks and watching her fly through the windshield.

He stopped at Burger King, got Hanji her stupid Shrek toy and value meal and she still wants to bother him! And Erwin won't do a thing about it. Levi made a left and pressed down on the gas pushing the car faster. He never liked putting wear and tear on his car but he also didn't like being tortured by a stupid looking scouting agent who tries to piss him off.

As a large building came into view, Eren found himself pressed up against the window. The Garrison building was a good 70 meters tall with rose bushes surrounding the entrance along with workers outside conversing. Levi's black mustang came to a slow stop. He groaned happily when the radio shut off and the door opened.

"Don't forget to mention me in the meet and greet, Levi~" The short man swore Hanji's Satan. he had no idea who he pissed off or what god was against him but they definitely knew how to get revenge.

Erwin pushed the seat forward and thanked Levi for the ride. They sat for a moment, Levi rubbed his head grumbling softly. "Come sit in the front."

"Why?"

"Stop questioning everything brat and sit your ass up here. It'd be a lot easier to exit my car than having to push the seat forward." Eren did as told, buckled in and Levi pulled out of the parking lot. They drove in silence for a while. Levi stopped at a stop light and rested back in his seat.

"You're silence for once."

"Is that a bad thing?"

"Mm, no. I just thought you'd be talking out your ass by now."

He was right. He would be talking and making sarcastic remarks like the night they walked home together. Eren was silent just about the entire day feeling... different. He really did miss Armin and Marco and wasting away in the coffee shop or boring classroom lectures. He even missed talking to Mikasa. He isn't used to a life-like this. It was all too new to him and coming at him so quick. Who knew one day out the coffee shop could silence him like this?

"Look kid," Levi pressed down on the gas. "You're not used to this, I get that. But you're over thinking it. Just relax and answer the motherfuckers. Take a few pictures, sign a few autographs and it'll all be over in no time."

"I never took you as the caring type."

"I'm not. Consider yourself lucky." The vehicle parallel parked in front of the small shop. Levi peeked into his rear view mirror to make sure the coast was clear before he told Eren to go ahead inside.

**~•~**

Screaming. Eren stood halfway and stared at the line of screaming girls shouting requests, holding signs and taking out their phones to take photos and video. Eren took a small step back only to bump into Levi who grabbed his waist to calm him down.

Though it frightened Eren more.

Levi stood on his toes, his lips brushing against his earlobe making the line of girls cry with happiness. He whispered, "Calm down. Remember when I told you times you're allowed to touch me?"

Eren nodded slowly.

He released Eren's waist and walked to his side, gentle resting his arm to his lower back and pulling him close, proudly guiding him. The girls shirked. Flashing lights blinded Eren but Levi paid no mind to the attention. "Smile brat. You look like you have to take a shit."

Smile...

Smile...? Eren let the words sink in, slowly down his pace a little. He remember saying he was only a smile and a few poses away from a paid tuition... so what if he was only a smile and a few cute pictures with Levi away from being forgotten?

_Smile Eren. Just smile. Think of something positive... A better life with mom, higher finances, a future career in Marine Biology with Armin... finally making mom proud_.

The corner of Eren's lips twitched before he flashed a sweet smile to the audience. The lights and blood curtailing screams were unbearable but he stuck it through. He wiggled himself free of Levi's hold and instead took his hand, turning him to face the crowd. Levi rolled his eyes listening to the fans exclaim with delight. Eren waved to the crowd feeling his heart sped up a little.

"You guys are so cute together!"

"Ah! I got a picture!"

"Look at Eren, he's so cute!"

"Smile Levi!"

"Yeah! Eren's smiling, you should smile too Levi!"

Levi growled and tugged Eren, walking to the double doors. Before Eren could open the door, Levi beat him to it, opening the door for him and saying, "Allow me, Ma chérie." He kept his eyes locked with a dumbfounded Eren to ignore the flashing lights.

Wait a second... Levi knows French? Eren blinked, his mouth ajar.

"Close your mouth; swallow a fly I won't be giving your sorry ass mouth to mouth."

Eren swallowed thickly and walked into the empty café with chairs set up in rows with a walkway in the middle leading up to the stage. His mother always wanted to have a stage for live entertainment, but it would cost too much to pay for an entertainer and the café would be dull with an empty black stage. He walked up the stage and sat down watching the flood of fangirls rush inside and take their seats. When Levi sat down, a woman walked onto the middle of the stage with a microphone.

She was dressed professionally. She wore a gray business suit with a tight fitted skirt that fell above her knees. Though her hair was messy and threw her look off a bit. Eren couldn't help but notice the large rose emblem on the back of her uniform. It looked like the same rose that surrounded the entrance to the Garrison Company.

She waited for the crowd to settle before speaking. "Hello. On my company, Garrison Talent Corporation and the Recon Corps Agency behalf we'd like to thank you all for joining us," She turned to the boys on stage and Eren took in her look: Cheek length blonde hair and silver-coloured eyes behind a small framed pair of glasses. "And the Garrison would like to thank Eren and Levi personally for joining us on such short notice," The audience cheered happily. Eren smiled lightly and waved.

"We have an entire hour so use it wisely." With that the woman walked away leaving the room in silence.

Eren coughed awkwardly in the mic in front of him. "U-um... does anybody have any questions?"

"They all have questions, idiot!" Levi mumbled quietly so only Eren could hear. The model leaned back in his seat and crosses his arms occasionally glancing at the coffee cup-shaped clock on the wall.

"Um... how about you? The girl with the black ponytail in the front." The girl stood enthusiastically. "Hi, um, I just wanted to know how did you two meet?"

Eren cleared his throat softly and spoke into the mic. "At my job... I work at my mother's coffee shop in Rose Capitol. Um..." his eyes scanned the room. "How about you?" he pointed to a short girl with a brown pony tail.

"How long did you two know each other? On my Instagram feed, I saw a picture of Levi kissing you. Obviously you two known each other before."

_What is Instagram? _Eren wondered. _God, there are more websites with that fucking photo?! _Eren swallowed thickly remembering that horrid misleading photo that messed everything up and to his surprise Levi spoke.

"I met him at a café I stopped at while I was in Rose for a meeting. I sent my asinine coworker to get me coffee since I was low on energy but it took her almost twenty goddamn minuets to fetch a cup. I walked inside, saw Eren and this is how this all started."

A girl stood without being called on, shooting her hand in the air. "Why did you chose Eren and who is your coworker?"

"I chose Eren because he had the right look and it's not in my consent to give her name," Levi lied with a slight shutter. "And stand the fuck up without being called on, get your ass out. That goes to all of you."

"Levi!" Eren snapped. Eren rested his hand on Levi's forearm before smiling at the girl. "I'm sorry, he's in a bitter mood. Don't mind him." The girl giggled before sitting down.

"How about you, with the gray tank top, what's your question?"

"Do you know about Levi's past sex life?" The room fell silent and all eyes were on him, including Levi's. His face flushed and his eyes wandered around trying to think of an answer. Camera phones were waiting for the answer and one wrong answer would ruin everything. Of all questions why the hell that one?

"W-well um-"

"Why the hell does my past sex life concern you? How does it include you in any way, shape, or form?" Eren's eyes widened slightly as Levi pulled his chair close to him. He pulled Eren on his lap, nuzzling his chin on Eren's shoulder-blade staring darkly at the girl. The crowd snapped photos like mad. Some even stood up to get a better angle.

"Tell me something, do you tell your lover about your past relationship? How do even know if I had one before Eren?"

The brunette couldn't help the dark crimson painting his cheeks. This was embarrassing! Levi held tightly onto his hips securely. He kept pulling Eren to his body when Eren tried to pull away but Levi kept him in place. He could feel Levi's even soft breaths crease his cheeks making him roll his eyes with red cheeks.

"If you can't answer that question then I'd suggest you shut the fuck up. No personal questions. Ask anything that's personal to me or makes Eren uncomfortable please get out. This is a warning to every last living soul in this room. Next question?"

**~•~**

The meet and greet went rather... smoothly.

Expect for the time when Levi made threats to a few girls, insulted them and made rude snide comments but Eren assumed they viewed Levi as "Over protective." Both males were given complimentary sweets and coffee from Garrison as reward for doing the meet and greet in which Levi says is fucking stupid and wasn't afraid to voice his opinion to the Garrison representative.

But Eren was happy he at least got something. He was going to give it to Carla anyway. Well except for the cookies.

Eren sat in the front seat gnawing away at the sugar cookies given. "For a dumbass, you did really well with the audience."

"And you were angry as fuck. What the hell was wrong with you?"

"They pissed me off. What did you expect me to do? Keep my mouth shut? Hell no, if they have a death wish they'll tell me to shut the hell up. But until someone with huge iron balls tell me that to my face, I won't hesitate to get on someone's ass if they irritate me. Including you."

Eren rolled his eyes. "You were already on my ass," Eren shut his mouth quickly. He really needs to think before he speaks... Out the corner of his eye he noticed an elegant brow arch questioningly. "You mean when you were on my lap? We were supposed to be a couple, I did my part."

"I know but you took it too far."

"For fucks sakes brat, why the hell are you complaining? Don't think I didn't notice you blushing."

"I wasn't blushing!" Eren snapped. "It's called being fucking embarrassed. I felt humiliated on your lap like that, I'm not a baby."

Levi nodded his head and smirked darkly. "Yeah cause I'd think it'd be disturbing if a baby got a boner on a grown man's lap, wouldn't you?"

Eren snarled. If that's how he wanted to play, so be it. Eren has a few remarks up his sleeve too. "Pfft, how long has it been since you last gotten a boner old man? Have you even gotten laid?"

"Before you start with getting laid, that freckled coworker of yours doesn't count as a fuck buddy."

"Don't bring Marco into this. And he's not my fuck buddy for your information, geezer."

"Your mom doesn't count either."

"That's too fucking far Levi!" Eren's voice raised a octive making Levi laugh to himself. "Hey, you wanna start shit, I'll end it."

Eren smiled lightly. "Honestly, I thought you're just hostile and resentful but maybe... never mind, you're a bitter old shit who needs to lighten up."

"You sounded like me for a second minus the last part." He chuckled.

"_Honestly_," Levi mocked in a high-pitched voice to mimic Eren. "I thought you were a fucking brat," His voice returned to its usual monotone. "But nevermind, you're a stubborn hardheaded shit brat who complains too damn much."

"Alright, I'll take that you old bat. But I don't sound like that."

"You're voice is a turn off when you whine like a spoiled child. But you have a nice ass." Levi punched in the number to Sinadonna Lakes and waited for the gates to open before driving into the community. Eren continued to argue with Levi as they pulled into driveway of his home.

"Wait, I thought you were dropping me back home." The man removed the keys from the ignition and faced Eren.

"I am. I just wanted to stop home to check Isabel is all." Eren couldn't get a word out before Levi removed himself from the vehicle and unlocked his front door.

Now. Eren had two options. Either stay in the car and be bored until he gets back and god knows how long that'll be or go inside in the air-conditioned luxurious home.

It wasn't a difficult decision. He got out and ran into the home shutting the door behind him. He looked around and walked further into the home to find Levi settled on the couch petting the all black cat who purred to his touch. Levi had already removed his shoes and replaced his flannel shirt for a black tank.

"You're so kind to the cat, why not people?"

The man glanced up and said, "Petra and an old friend of mine got my this cat saying that I need company. The only thing that upsets me is the fact she shits all over the place." He pulled the cat's nose lightly and the cat placed it's paw on Levi's hand bring it down.

"What was your friend's name?"

"What did I tell you about your damn shoes?"

"...What?"

"Take your goddamn shoes off. If I find even the slightest of dirt on my floor, your licking up you piece of shit."

"Is that some type of fetish?... Okay, okay I'm going. Geez, don't have a fucking heart attack, I'd hate to call an ambulance."

Isabel yowled as Eren came back in the room and joined Levi on the couch. "To answer your question, her name was Isabel. She died in a car accident three years ago with another close friend of mine, Farlan."

"Oh...oh.. I'm sorry..."

"No reason to apologize, shit happens, and there's nothing we can do about it." Isabel purred, rubbing her head against Levi's stomach making him roll his eyes. "Go eat, you spoiled shit," The cat hopped off Levi's lap, making her way to her replenished food bowl. "You want anything?"

The man walked to the kitchen and fetched himself a wine glass and bottle.

"Whatever you're having is fine."

"Wine? I'm not giving alcohol to an eleven year old girl."

Eren scoffed. "You wish I was an eleven year old girl."

"Watch it, Jaeger," Levi drank the beverage slowly savoring the rich taste before going into his fridge. "Plus I wouldn't want that."

"Why not, perv?"

"Because an eleven year old girl doesn't have an ass like yours."

The brunette buried his face in his hand and stood walking to the kitchen and getting a glass of water. "What're you making?"

"You'll see brat. For now, try not to make a mess of my living room and relax."

**~•~**

Levi was being too... nice. Well nice is too much of an over statement. He was calm with Eren being around but Eren didn't pay mind to it. With the exotic, uncommon smell filling the home, Eren couldn't take his mind off his stomach. He wasn't hungry. He didn't want to ask Levi for food, he should wait to get home before eating... but damn that smelled good.

"Hey shithead," Eren looked up and Levi handed him a bowl.

"What is this?"

"Fuck you're annoying..." Levi sat down next to him and began eating.

"Where's my wine?"

" Up your ass."

"Bitter bat," Eren muttered. He looked down at the dish: Beef chunks with peas, carrots, mushroom with a piece of French bread. The dish was simple yet smelled amazing. "It's Beef Burgundy, you're staring at it like it's drugged."

"...what if it is...?

"If I wanted to fuck you while you're unconscious, I would have done it hours ago. Now eat you cheeky brat, you're lucky I'm feeding you."

They ate in silence except for Eren's happy noises as he ate. Levi was obviously annoyed by his childish behavior but it felt nice to have company over every once in a while.

"Why are you being so nice to me?"

"Here we go with the questioning," Levi groaned. "Because I can. Plus it'd be good if we got to know each other a little better so our dating scheme would be more believable. We got away with this because those girls are fucking stupid."

"I didn't know you could speak French." Eren said out of the blue.

The man shrugged. "My mother was French and my father was american. He went on a business trip to France and met my mom."

"So Mikasa's French too?"

Levi shook his head. "No. We're not biological siblings. We're close and share a few physical simalarities. When we became close she started calling me big brother and I went along with it. We're both an only child so it was nice to have someone to call family. I met her on the streets in France when my mother died and I ran away from my abusive father. She told me she escaped from human traffickers who kidnapped her from Asia and brought her to France to be sold."

"Better you than me. I would've killed those pigs for that! It's sickening!" Eren growled.

"The world is a cruel, unfortunate place. We lived on the street for three and a half years like animals, almost the equivalent of thugs."

"Did you guys steal and kill?"

Levi leaned back against the arm of the couch. "We did what we had to do. And mugging wealthy individuals was how I met Isabel and Farlan. Turns out I plotted the wrong person to mug and if it wasn't for Isabel's overactive ass, my brains would decorate an alleyway in France."

Eren set his bowl down on the table and turned to Levi, bringing his feet up to his chest. "How did you become a model?"

"Well Isabel and Farlan decided to live with Mikasa and I and partake in our crimes. One night, I saw Erwin with Hanji and decided to mug the both of them and leave their bodies to rot. He had money to spend, it was written all over his smug face. When I assaulted Erwin, he flipped the script and I was the one who ended up with bruises and scratches and with a gun to my head. From there, Hanji took us in, annoyed the fuck out of me and Erwin wanted me to model for his company. I was forced to do it. If I didn't I would be turned over to the police along with Mikasa, Farlan and Isabel for our crimes."

"How old were you?"

"Fourteen when I ran away. I was seventeen when I met Erwin and Hanji."

"What about Mikasa?"

"She was twelve when I first met her. We're two years apart. Anything else?"

"N-no. I think I should head home."

Levi stood, took Eren's empty bowl along with his and took them to the kitchen. When he returned his keys were in hand and slid on his shoes. "It's okay, I'll catch the bus."

Levi threw on a black hoodie and zipped it up. "It's getting late so I'll give you a ride. After all, we are dating."

* * *

A/N: Ma chérie means My darling! Thank you Google Translate! Speaking of thanking people, you guys are the best! Thank you thank you thank you for the support on the last chapter and sweet reviews. I swear I got cavities from the love! Thank you for following and adding it to your favorites!

We have Levi's back story! Hurray for character develpment~ I will give Eren's back story in a few chapter from now and I apologize for the agonizing pace. I don,t want to rush into their relationship, i want to build on it first. Oh, and next chapter will be revolving around Eren's college life instead of Levi so expect Jean, Marco, Armin etc, etc.

Do not listen to Free! 50% off while writing fan fiction. I had to rewrite half the chapter because of the crack I added...

Lastly, can we just talk about this? Levi ordering from Burger King. Just turn everything off, sit in a dark room and think about his expression ordering a Shrek toy... just think about it.

Till next time!

Review Response:

0nlooker: I love model AU's. It's hard to find one that's not on hiatus though.

Neekuchiki: Thanks Neeku-chan!

Hibary-Hiwatari: Ah, you broke my heart :P You'll love me soon enough, Hibary-Chan! Thanks for reviewing!

KitKatCyn: Thank you~ I like your username btw

AnimeAddictionFreak: Thanks! Happy you're enjoying it so far :3


	5. Chapter Four: Pink Ribbon Cupcakes

Sun fluttered on Eren's eyelids as he woke up to rapid buzzing. As Eren sat up, he rubbed his eyes and checked his phone.

Twenty four new messages

Six missed calls

Four voicemails

Eren sighed and unlocked his phone, spamming messages popping on his screen. To his surprise they were all from Levi.

**Levi: Hey brat, I hope you're not hung over as fuck if you are too fucking bad. We have a meeting today at 10:30 with Garrison**

**Levi: Do you need a ride?**

**Levi: Wake up brat, I'm not an alarm clock**

**Levi: It's thirty past the hour, if your late you're not hearing the end of it**

**Levi: Meeting's in twenty minuets**

**Levi: It's 10 fucking 30 where the hell are you?**

**Levi: You're fifteen minuets late and we're waiting for your fucked up ass**

**Levi: Are you fucking dead?**

**Levi: You better be fucking constipated brat, get your ass over here**

**Levi: I'm fucking done, if I get there and you'll ass is still in bed expect to wake up in a body bag in a foreign country**

**Levi: Answer your fucking phone**

**Levi: I swear to god when I see you I'm gonna kick your ass**

**Levi: I'm busting my ass stalling for you get your shitty self down here before I find you and drag you here**

**Levi: Fucking brat.**

Today was going to be a long day.

**~•~**

As Eren got on the bus, he received strange looks from the passengers. But he decided to ignore it since his brain was pounding against his skull and took a seat in the back. He glanced down and texted Levi back slowly.

Eren: Dont pass out you old fart, I'm on my way.

Eren rested his head against the window, watching the scenery pass by. When they reached Rosearia Circuit, Eren got off the bus and walked into the Garrison Building. He walked to the front desk, the smell of rose-water fueled his senses. "I'm Eren and I have a meeting with Garrison. Levi sent me a message this morning to come here."

The receptionist blinked before picked up the desk phone. "I have an... Eren down here requesting ?... Yes sir, I'll send him up," The woman looked up at Eren who was dozing off into his hand. "Excuse me,"

"Hm? Oh yeah..?"

"... Take the elevator to the top floor."

"...Thanks..."

**~•~**

"Should we reschedule the meeting for a more suitable day?"

Levi growled as Erwin spoke. "Yes, I think we should reconsider-"

"I'm here..I'm here, so sorry I'm...late... I had... something..." Eren took a seat next to Levi who used all his willpower not to choke Eren in the middle of "meeting" and not land himself forty plus years in prison for first degree murder.

"Well nice to meet you, Eren. I'm Dot Pixis, cofounder of the Garrison Company."

"Eren... Eren Jeager."

"So you care to tell us why you're an hour and six minuets late?" Levi asked. Eren shrugged. "Some... stuff came up."

"Than that "stuff" better be good."

"It's none of your business."

"Don't try that shit with me!"

"Somebody should call the hospital, Levi's blood pressure is rising." Eren smirked as Levi breathed heavily.

"Calm down, Levi," Erwin mumbled. "And Eren, you can tease him later tonight. Ah, Levi, don't say anything."

"Don't test my patients, brat."

Pixis laughed quietly. "Nevermind that, I didn't call you three in here to bicker. Rico, if you may."

Eren remembered the girl called Rico. She's the same Garrison Representative who was at their meet and greet. The only difference she wore her hair tied back.

Pixis began. "The Garrison would like to propose an offer. We would like to promote breast cancer awareness and we would like to have Eren and Levi model for us."

Eren looked down at the sheet of paper. The page contained a brief summary of the photo shoot and jobs they would have to do. He also noticed the date of the shoot along with many other important dates with Garrison. "We're doing this today?" Pixis nodded. "Is that a problem? We've confirmed with Levi today at four would be fine."

"It's fine, i just need some rest."

At the bottom was a small note along with a line to sign his signature.

"Rico." Pixis said.

The blonde nodded her head. "We want this photo shoot to show even though you're living with the ribbon, you're still worthy just like every other living human being. Looking at these photos should give them hope and express that they should live life to the fullest-"

"I uh... please excuse me." Levi stood and rushed out the room quickly, leaving the room with an awkward atmosphere. "Is he-"

"Yes," Erwin interrupted. "He's fine. It's best if we leave him be." Pixis nodded and focused on Eren. "Would you like to-"

"No." Erwin's voice was low and gruff, filled with seriousness. "Knowing Levi, it's best not to bother him."

"Understood. I believe this is all we have for the meeting," Erwin stood and nodded, shaking Pixis hand before gathering his stuff. "We'll see you later."

**~•~**

**3:21 **

**16065 N Sinadonna**

"Erwin, I don't know if I can keep this up." Levi sat on his couch, sipping wine. Eren slept peacefully upstairs in Levi's guest room which he'll have to go out his way to clean spotless once the brat leaves.

Erwin laughed. "It was your idea."

"Yeah and I'm not afraid to say this may fuck up."

"He's nineteen, let him live a little."

"He can live. I just don't want anything to do with him..."

"...Are you alright?"

Levi glanced up and leaned back. "I don't know."

"If you don't to do the session, just say and I'll cancel. It's a lot we're asking of you."

Levi shrugged and set his glass down. "Modeling asks a lot from me. I'm getting too old for this shit eyebrows."

"You're twenty-two. You have your entire life ahead of you. You can quit modeling at anytime, you're well aware of that. But I don't want you doing something you're not comfortable with."

"If I wasn't comfortable with this I wouldn't have agreed to do it."

Erwin smirked lightly. "I thought you agreed because Eren agreed to do it-"

"Not everything I do has to do with the brat, dickbag. I'm my own fucking person and I don't need the shitstain guiding me through life and making decisions I can make myself."

"Ah, good old Levi."

"Eh, what the fuck's that supposed to mean?"

"You're a cynical little man."

"And you're stoic douchebag."

"Look in the mirror lately?" Levi nodded. "You're right. But looking in the mirror is fucking pointless."

"Funny hearing that from a model."

"Model or not, it doesn't matter. It's not like modeling was my life plan." Erwin nodded. "I know, I know," Erwin's phone beeped and he checked it. "Who is it?"

"You're grandmother."

"You can go straight to hell. Stop shitting me."

"It's from Garrison. They wants us to head to St Sina medical center and meet them on the roof."

"Go wake Eren up, I'll meet you guys outside."

* * *

The sun was slowly setting over Sina and Eren snuggled in his hoodie as he watched the scene pass by. Eren watched as Levi drove into the hospital and parked around back. "I'm not going in there."

"Why not?" Eren asked.

"It's disgusting in there."

"Please don't try to clean in there." Erwin said.

"As if I'd waste my fucking time. Let's just hurry and get this over with."

**~•~**

Disgusting. An absolutely nauseating scent made Levi cringe as they made their way to the roof. A bright radiant sunlight greeted them as they opened the door. Eren looked around amazed by the grand sight. The hospital overlooked the city, the sun glaring off the black sleek, shiny windows of a building that was a good twelve meter taller than St. Sina Medical Center. Soft winds blew through Eren's locks as he gawked at the sight. "Eren!" Levi called. He snapped out his trance and walked over to where Levi was standing quickly picking up on the conversation.

"You're only going to have one clothing option," Rico stepped aside to revel an empty clothing rack. It was basically bare with the except of two suits, one white the other black with two pink balloons tied together on the rack blowing with the wind. "I want Levi with the black and Eren, you get the white. Head behind those curtains over there and get changed."

Eren's face turned red. "What, no, I can't undress in front of him!"

"You've seen me naked plenty of times,"

"Levi!"

Rico grimaced and rolled her eyes, "I don't need to know what you do in your personal time. Just go ahead and get dressed."

Levi had to drag Eren behind him and once they were behind the curtains Levi began to casually undress. "What the hell are you doing?" The brunette yelled hushed. "Getting dressed for the photo shoot," Levi hauled his shirt over his head. "What does it look like?"

"But aren't you self-conscious? We've never seen each other naked!"

Levi turned around and scowled. "Like hell I'm self conscious. And I fucking know that! Now, turn around and shut the fuck up." Eren's face reddened as Levi's belt dropped and his pants unzipped.

Of all situations to get caught in...

Eren unzipped his jacket and stripped himself of his Nirvana T-shirt and jeans, quickly replacing them with the clothing provided from the agency.

"Hey um Levi?"

"What?"

"How do you tie a tie?"

"...Are you fucking kidding me, you can't be serious right now."

"I am."

"How did you tie your tie for Petra's party?!"

"...I googled it..."

Levi growled and turned Eren around, taking his tie in hand. "You should be a-fucking-shamed of your self."

"Shut up you old bat. You never knew how to tie a tie at one point."

"But I never googled it." The small space grew quiet before muffled laughs filled the air.

"You better be laughing at yourself, Jeager." Eren shook his head, tears brimming his eyes, "Nope. I'm laughing at you-"

Levi pulled down Eren's tie, pulling him down to a threatening eye level. "And what's so damn funny." He said it more like a statement than a question. Eren rubbed the back of his neck before mumbling, "You're like a housewife. You cook, clean, rant, tie my ties-"

"Don't piss yourself you little shit."

Eren laughed and walked out of the curtain's, Levi walking calmly behind the taller male. Eren noticed Rico talking to someone on the phone while Erwin spoke with a tall blonde man standing behind a camera. Before Eren could walk to the two blonde men, Levi caught the cuff of his suit. "Wait,"

"What?"

"Look kid... don't... don't fuck this up, alright?" Eren raised a brow. "Thanks for the motivational speech, geezer." Eren walked up behind Erwin and the other man.

The man turned on his heels and greeted Eren. "You must be Eren. I'm Hannes. I'll be head of the shoot for today since our lead photographer called out."

Once they introduced themselves, Hannes Instructed Eren and Levi to the edge of the building for the first shot. They sat next to each other, holding hands while holding the pink balloons he saw earlier in the same hand.

"Alright now... Levi, get off the ledge and sit in front of Eren-"

"I'm not sitting on the ground, it's fucking gross."

Hannes angled the camera and looked up. "It's just for two seconds." Levi rolled his eyes and sat on the ground. He growled in his throat as Eren nuzzled his chin on Levi's shoulder and laughed. "Come on Levi, if I smile you have to smile too~"

"I don't smile." Levi responded simply. Eren pinched Levi's cheeks and brought them up. "See...you look...haha! I thought something supernatural would happen if you smiled. Ha! I guess I was wrong."

"If you're going to be another Hanji we can end this relationship here and now." Eren brushed his cheek against Levi's and smiled. As soon as Hannes gave a thumbs up, Levi pushed Eren off him. "You know you're really fucking annoying."

"And you're really fucking temperamental," Eren poked Levi's cheek and cooed, "You need to find some inner fucking peace~"

"Fuck off, brat." The photo shoot seemed to drag on longer with the brat constantly badgering and hanging on Levi just because he was bored. They tested out with different poses and props throughout the shoot.

Finally, the sun was setting slowly and Hannes decided to take two last photos and call it quits.

"Alright, Eren you're up," Eren twirled a pink fresh rose between his fingers. He noticed Hannes was on one knee to get test out the angle. "Eren, I want you to stay at least four inches away from the camera and hunch over slightly. Straighten a little.. good. Now hold the rose. I can t see your face move the rose. Okay now Levi, I want you to hold Eren's hand but stay a good distance from him. Like he's dragging you along. Good,"

Hannes took a step back to get Levi in the shot and took the picture. After that, they switched their positions.

Levi stood at the camera, wearing a small smirk as he held the rose to his lips. The petals touching his lips softly. In the background, Eren looked as if he was running towards Levi with one hand extended carrying he rose. The wind blew softly in Eren's eyes, making it look like he was running.

A shutter sound sounded making a shiver run down Levi's spine. He bit his bottom lip as memories began to cloud his mind. His heart fluttered rapidly and his heart felt like it was hanging my a flimsy thread.

Who knew the color pink could make his heart race and drop like this?

* * *

The sun was slowly setting over Sina and Eren sat uncomfortably in the front. The car ride was awfully tense and the negative ora was coming from Levi. Maybe Eren really pissed him off this time...

Eren opened the car window and allowed the breeze to cool off his heating face.

"Do you know where we're going?" Levi asked lowly. Eren sensed the uneasiness in the man's voice. He replied, "No."

Levi eased off the gas a little, gradually slowing down their speed. He then looked at Eren. "I need to do something," he said. Eren watched as they drove up Sina Bridge, the sun dancing happily on the ocean below. If they continued down the road, they'll no longer be in the Sina District. But to Eren's surprise, the car slowed and parked on the side of the bridge. "What are you-"

"Stay here and don't touch anything." Eren's eyes caught notice of the pink rose in his hand and before he could say anything, Levi got out the car and walked to the bridge.

The man sighed and griped the brick-built bridge. He looked off at the ocean before saying, "Hey...mom..." he swallowed building tension in his throat before continuing. "I... I'm sorry I can't visit your grave in person, but this is the closet i can get for now. I promise one day I'll come see you." Levi placed the rose on the bricks and lowered his head. "I've had a fuck ton of work to do and I... I can't stay long. I just want you to know... I love you and I miss you..."

Levi heard shuffling and the door close softly. He looked back. "Come here brat. Quit eavesdropping on me and get your nosy ass over here."

Eren walked next to Levi and glanced down at the rose. "I'm sorry..." he muttered. Levi grimaced. "Don't apologize for shit you didn't do."

"It's really pretty out here. The sunset is really beautiful."

"Don't start that shitty romance shit with me. You think everything is beautiful."

"I don't think everything is beautiful. You're definitely not. You're just a dark void, inside and out." An arm snuck around Eren's waist pulling him close. The man opened his mouth but nothing came out. And instead, he knitted his eyebrows together.

"I thought you were pissed at me."

Levi glanced up. "I was. You pissed me off on a daily basis. I fucking hate you."

"Hm. That's probably the nicest thing you've said to me ever since this started." Levi inhaled deeply and let out a low breath. "Come. We should go, it's getting late and I want to take you somewhere."

Eren turned on his heels, watching Levi get in his car. He started up the engine and the roof slowly went down. "You're car can do that?! How?"

"Fuck you, that's how. Now are you gonna stay there or are you gonna get in?" Eren took one last look at the rose before running into the passenger's seat and locking in.

Taking his car out of park, he sped off and drove towards the city next to Sina before making a U-turn and heading in the opposite direction. The wind blew happily in Eren's face and he smiled happily as he watched the sun set. The night placing its blanket over the Sina district. Levi glanced over and smiled lightly. The man relaxed. Sitting back in his seat and letting the night air releave his stress. "You should sit back. If you fall out your ass is getting run over."

"I have the seat belt, old man." Levi raised a brow and unhook his seat, making Eren jump slightly. "What seatbelt? It's useless if you're not wearing it."

"Shut up. I've never had a car... and the roof is down! The bus roof can't do that!"

"Like I didn't know that. But sit your ass down before I hit the brakes."

"You can't do that,"

"Why not?"

"Because your mom would be disappointed."

Levi rolled his eyes. "My mom would be proud. She doesn't deal with shit either, brat."

"So you're more like your mom?"

Levi's eyes narrowed questioningly before he shrugged. "I guess you could say that."

"I wish I could meet her."

"..."

"She sounds like a nice woman."

"My mom would fucking despise you."

"Sure about that?"

"Positive."

Eren chuckled and leaned back. "Looks like I have a lot to prove, huh?"

* * *

A/N: Edit: As of last night, my grandmother was admitted into the hospital. I wanted to dedicate this chapter to my grandmother and to everybody who has lost somebody or who knows somebody who is going through the battle. I deleted the original chapter because I wanted this chapter to have a deep meaning and the other chapter was not serious in any way and it was out-of-place in the story. I have trouble failing asleep last night and I typed this up. The original plan for the photo shoot was going to be Heartbreaker inspired by Marina and the Diamonds but I decided to go along with this instead. I really need to get some rest so this is it.

Review Response (original chapter):

Mermaidhorse: Thank you love and I love your icon. Adorable!

NanaChii: Wow I feel stupid, I forgot you need to tag them in... thanks for the tip and review.

Hibary-Hiwatari: Challenge Accepted ;) Trust me, challenge cannot start from this chapter. We'll do this next chapter! Until then!

Edit: I knew you were going to start it from... the original chapter. I know... that chapter was terrible. Saying it was bad is an understatement. 0~0

TheSwordHolder99: And oggiling will be done

neekuchiki: Flattered :3 Do you know anymore good model AU's? It's hard to find a good one nowadays.

Edit:

xKireyy: Thanks. The story will provably be completed somewhere near April or May. So if I do a seuqqel, I'll start it off in June with a swimsuit photo shoot.

Lovely-Bunny: Thank you a ton!


	6. Chapter Five: Stawberry-Lemon Margarita

Warning: Homophobia is in this chapter (Reasons are posted in AN)

.

Levi pulled his car around front and parked near the valet. "Why are we here?"

"Just another publicity stunt. Plus I'm feeling generous, so shut the hell up." Levi got out his car and opened the door for Eren, shooting him a dark look. Once Eren was out, he told Eren to wait and walked to the valet. "If I find so much as a smudge of dirt from your filthy hands expect your-Mghm!"

"Please excuse him, he didn't get his midmorning nap." Eren tightened his grip around Levi's mouth as he pried the keys from his hand. "Thank you." Eren had to fight and struggle to drag Levi inside with his hand over his mouth. He mad it halfway before Levi's elbow connect with his stomach.

"The hell was that for?!" Eren exclaimed. He clinged onto his stomach as pain emerged.

"I don't know where the fuck you hand's been, don't put that shit in my mouth!"

Eren chuckled and smirked. "That's dirty Levi~"

"Oh real fucking mature, you shit. And if we actually have sex you're dick is going nowhere near me."

A blush mixing between embarrassment and desire painted Eren's cheek. He shrugged off Levi's words and said, "I'll never have sex with you. I don't like you anyway. Take a fucking joke."

Levi scoffed and laced his arm around Eren's wasit, ushering him into the restaurant. "I won't ever fuck you either, but that ass is still fine." They walked inside. The restaurant was bright lit, small chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. The tables were all covered with white soft cloths. Laughter and conversations mixed together with the band playing on the small stage. Eren looked around rapidly and scoffed. He nudged Levi gently.

"What brat?" he asked quietly. "Is this going to be a pain in the ass establishment? Because I can't stand rich snobs."

Levi shrugged. "I don't think so. I've eaten here before with Hanji, Erwin, Petra, and Auruo."

Eren remained silent as a host approached them. "Do you have a reservation?"

"No," Levi said. He took a step forward releasing his grip around Eren. "I'd like to make a reservation tonight for 7:19."

"That's... in one minuet?"

"That's the point." Levi deadpanned.

The man rolled his eyes. "Sir, you can't do that. You need to make a reservation ahead of time. This isn't a walk in restaurant."

Levi groaned and rolled his eyes. Before he could get a word out, Eren tugged at his sleeve and said, "It's okay, we don't have to eat here. We can get McDonalds or something."

Levi raised a brow and turned to the man, digging into his pocket and pulling out at least three hundred dollars in cash. "Will this cover the troubles?"

"I-Ah... yes sir, follow me, right this way." Eren was awestruck. Honestly, it was like the only way to get what you want is to buy it. Seriously. Eren really hates rich spoiled people. How could Levi call Eren a brat?

They were lead to a table around back near the mini bar. The host watched Levi pull Eren's chair out and sneered at the sight, obvious disgust on his face. He left without a word and Levi took his seat.

"We didn't have to come here." Levi waved him off as he read over the menu. "Don't worry about it. And order whatever you want."

"Are you sure?"

"You know, I really hate when people ask me that annoying ass question. If I wasn't sure on my decision, I wouldn't have suggested it."

Eren sighed and looked over the menu.

Blanquette de Veau - 45.29

Soupe à L'oignon - 30.99

Boudin Noir Aux Pommes - 50.20

Poulet Basquaise - 39.99

Gigot D'Agneau Pleureur - 62.43

Eren set down his menu. What the fuck was this bullshit they listed on the menu? And the prices?! He would have to sell his soul if he brought more than two items. Why the hell couldn't they just go to McDonalds like Eren suggested?! At least he wouldn't need to chop his arm off on the spot or get thrown in jail for failing to pay up. And at least at a fast food chain he would be aware of what he's eating.

The only thing he could recognize was simple desserts like cheesecake and chocolate moose. He also knew what red wine is and a few margaritas here and there but anything besides that, not a chance.

A waiter walked up to their table and exchanged looks between Eren and Levi. He cleared his throat gathering their attention. "Have you decided what you'll like?" Eren noticed the man was heavily focused on him and Levi seeing this, took his hand and squeezed it.

"I would hope you're not staring at my Eren,"

The waiter knitted his brows. "Of course not, sir," he looked at Levi. "Your meal for tonight?"

" Piperade and Tartiflette for the both of us."

"What I don't want that! I don't even know what that is!"

"Trust me, brat. You'll like it. It's nothing too over the top."

"And drink?" his eyes wandered back over to Eren. Taking in his appearance with a sour look on his face. Levi raised a brow. "Eren, why don't we switch seats? This simple-minded fool can't seem to figure out who's who."

The man snapped his attention back to Levi. "Why is this child with you?"

"Child? I'm nineteen for fucks sake!"

"I refuse to service you."

"Why is that?"

"...I don't accept homosexuality." The man spit back bitterly. His words were like glass. Blunt glass that couldn't cut through Levi's feelings. But it did make Eren uncomfortable hearing such slurs. Levi looked up clearly unphased by the man.

"Is that so?"

"Yes sir."

Levi nodded, licking the front of his teeth and glancing over to Eren. "I see. Well I hope you won't have a bitch fit-" He leaned over the counter, pulling Eren's tie and forcing him to his lips, his words gracing the other's lips. "If I do this." Their lips met. He noticed Eren's wide eyes and red cheeks and in response, he rolled his and looked over to the waiter who looked like a volcano wanting to erupt. He laughed inwardly and broke off from Eren's lips, a dark smirk sweeping across his face as Eren took a staggered step back into his seat. Eren let out a cracked hoarse noise and growled quietly.

"Why do you look so shocked? We've done it "plenty" of times before." Levi said, he licked his lips and turned his attention to the waiter. "Now, I paid a fuck ton of money on the spot just to sit down and enjoy a meal with _my boyfriend_. I don't give a fuck how "homosexual" Eren and I may be and I most certinally _do not_ give a flying fuck if you have something against it. I paid to enjoy a meal and I expect to get a meal."

"I refuse to serve you. It's repulsive."

"Ahh, I hope its not as repulsive as waiting in the unemployment line in the Sina District. This does seem like a well-paying job. I hope you wouldn't mind giving it up to someone more deserving of your "well-earned title."

The man growled, snatching the menu from the table. "Right away sir..."

Eren looked up, his fingers running across his lips as his face burned with anger. "What the fuck was that?"

"A bullshit kiss and homophobic waiter who needs a foot up his ass." Levi replied nonchalantly. He blinked as he listened to Eren's rant.

"Don't act like a fucking smartass, why the hell would you do that?! What fucking possessed you to do that!?"

"...Me."

"God fuck, Levi! You're pissing me off!"

"No I'm not. You're pissing yourself off like a spoiled brat." Eren took his seat defeated. Levi was a stubborn, sarcastic old man who enjoyed messing with Eren and starting shit. Eren wanted to storm out the restaurant but at the same time, he didn't want to make a scene. Making a scene eans drawing attention and attracting attentions means annoying paparazzi.

"Are you seriously pissing yourself over this?"

Eren rolled his eyes. "We're not dating, fucker. Did you forget this stupid deal already?" He yelled hushed.

"No, I didn't forget. And it was a stupid thirty-second kiss that didn't mean shit. Grow a pair and grow the hell up already. You're nine-fucking-teen. You'all be twenty in who knows how long-"

"I'll be twenty March 30th next year."

"Thanks for the info, fuckface. You're going to be a twenty year old virgin crying in his room because of one little kiss. That's really fucking stupid. It's a complete waste of your life."

"Fuck you."

"A little life lesson Eren: Cry like a bitch, build a bridge and get the fuck over it."

"Why the hell are you telling me this? You're the one who ran out the fucking room at Petra's party-" Eren's tie was pulled and he was forced to stare Levi in the eye. The man's glare was intimidating as fuck.

It was like a gun was cocked and loaded and to Eren's head. As if a cold barrel was grazing his skin; one pull and he's done for. But like hell Eren was stepping down from him. "Listen here you little shit, I don't know who the fuck you think you are but you don't know shit about Petra and I's history so don't start spewing shit about shit you don't know shit about. Got that?"

Eren nodded and pushed Levi off him. A waiter came around with their food, placing it in front of them. "Your drinks?" he asked darkly.

"Cabernet sauvignon, water for him,"

"I fucking hate you." Eren spat picking at the gooey white cheese on the plate.

Levi smirked. "Don't we all?" When the waiter left, Eren asked. "What is this?"

"The one on the right is Tartiflette, it's potato with melted cheese, lardons and onion. The other is Piperade. "

"What's lardons?"

"French bacon."

"Oh... oh." Eren picked at the potato with his fork and blew it off before eating it. The cheese melting deliciously in his mouth. The waiter came back with two wine glasses, a violet wine bottle and a glass filled with ice water.

"Anything else?"

"Some more of this stuff!" Eren blurted.

"Oi, take it easy," Levi poured himself some wine before saying. "If we need you, we won't hesitate to call."

The two ate in silence for a little. Eren was half way through his meal when Levi interrupted. "Not that it's any of your business but I'll tell you about Petra and It's history."

"...Okay."

"When I left the dinner that night I was jealous of Auruo. Petra and I were once in love and she was everything I'm not. She was happy, smiling, caring, and a potential wife. I decided to propose to her January 21st two years ago,"

"Did you guys get divorced?"

"...We never married. We never got engaged."

"Oh."

"She said she wasn't ready. She didn't believe we were compatible so we broke off and remained friends till this day. I still harbor feelings for her but-"

"Then why did you start this controversy between you and me?" Levi shrugged and chewed his food. "Because I wanted to."

"Is that why you have a shitty outlook on life?"

"Not really. It affected my perspective on life but not the main reason. That day it made me realize life's a bitch and sometimes it won't go your way."

"I know... I've been there before..."

"I doubt that." Levi set his glass down and leaned back.

Their conversation carried on with sarcastic remarks and regular topics they usually talked about with occasional flirting. When they finished their food, Eren ordered desert. Eren ordered a strawberry-lemon Marguerita topped with whipped cream and chocolate drizzle strawberries while Levi sat back sipping on his wine happily.

* * *

Their meal ended with a colorful, rather... imaginative profanity to the waiter as well as an unexpected ass slap via Levi. When the valet brought Levi's car around, Eren got inside and snuggled into the passenger's seat with a flustered, livid expression. He heard soft chuckles from Levi and snorted.

"So same place tomorrow, right?" He asked in a sardonic tone.

"We're not allowed back in that shitty place. Why would you molest me in the middle of the restaurant?"

The man scoffed. "It's not molestation if you like it," he pulled at Eren's cheek. "Stop blushing, brat." Eren slapped Levi's hand away. He didn't respond. Instead, he rested his head against the door, watching the dimly lit Titan Chronicle sign coming into view. His hair tickled his face as Levi's car slowed down then stopped. "Alright brat," Eren lifted his head. "Get the fuck out."

Eren scoffed and opened the car door. "Good night to you too, geezer."

As Eren walked inside, the small chime sounded. The lights downstairs were off but small light upstairs laminated the staircase. He noticed his mom was asleep so he decided to head to his room and strip himself of his suit. He swapped out the formal clothing and traded it for bed pants and a faded Get Scared shirt. He yawned as he sat down his computer and ran his hands through his hair.

As he turned on his computer, his phone rang.

1 New Message.

Levi: Goodnight, brat.

Eren laughed and smiled. Maybe Levi wasn't that bad.

* * *

A/N: Aha! They kissed!... even though it was for shits and giggles... fuck you, Levi. Anyhow, a really goos friend of mine is gay and his name is Isiah. Today, we visited the hospital and after that we decided to get DD for lunch (since he likes their grilled cheese sandwiches and iced tea) and when we got there, the employee kept giving him bad looks because he dresses freely with bright colors and print. (Lol, he's my inspiration to this fanfic.) And the man didn't want to service us and kept saying it's a disgrace to be gay.

I used Levi and Eren as a demonstration to many people's stupidity. Unfortuately, we didnt get grilled cheese sandwhiches and instead made pizza rolls at home :P

Edit: The next chapter will have a time skip and I'll be posting review response and such in the next chapter~ Thanks my shortcakes!


	7. Chapter Six: Burnt Cookies & Lemonade

**October 31, 2013**

**Titan Chronical, 10:21 AM**

"I fucking hate kids. It's so fucking simple brat, what do you not fucking get about it?" Eren sliced lemon and placed the pieces in the glass container containing ice and water. He glanced up and handed a slice to Levi.

"Look at the lemon then think about yourself," Eren continued to place lemon slices into the water before turning on his heels.

"The only similarities the lemon and I share is we're bitter and sour. Make people cringe and hate it."

"Unless," he stood on his toes and stretched his arn above his head reaching the bag of sugar. He walked back over and opened the bag. He pinched the white, sugary dust and threw some on Levi. "Lemons are sweet."

"Are you suggesting I should be nicer?... because it's not fucking happening. I don't care how many fruit metaphors you use or what bullshit item you want to compare me to. I'm not a nice person."

"Well you're going to have to change that attitude today. You can't throw around the f word when we get there."

Levi rolled his eyes. He watched Eren pour sugar into the container before mixing the beverage together. It's been one month. The sensation of October finally set in and the chills of November were coming. The Eren-Levi hype has finally calmed but Eren was still doing small jobs for Garrison and Recon Agency. Even Eren and Levi's "relationship" was still a thing but now between the two males they were friends. Or that's what Eren could consider them as. Today was Halloween. And Garrison arranged a day where Eren and Levi would head to an orphanage and take children trick or treating. Now Levi was quick to say, "I'm not their mommy, why the hell should I leave the comfort of my home and go out with a bunch of rotten brats and walk around a neighborhood full of even more rotten brats for fucking candy I can buy at the store?"

Eren told him otherwise. Plus Eren saw this as a oppertunity to head back to his birth town and take a bittersweet trip down memory lane. But Levi had no business knowing that.

"I have to have a filter around them?"Levi raised a brow and held the lemon in his hand as he watched Eren bend down to place the container of juice in the fridge. A smirk swept his face. "You compared me to a lemon so I'll do you. This lemon has a good feel. Probably like your ass." Monotone. How the hell could Levi say that with a dead voice and straight face?

Eren closed the fridge and walked to the counter. "You can't say I have a "nice ass" around them either."

He handed the lemon back to Eren and said, "They deserve to know. They'll probably acknowledge it too."

"That's... I'm so fucking used to you." Levi smiled light before it disappeared. "What happened to Dont drop the F bomb, Mr. I'm so fucking innocent? And I'm not a role model. No child should ever take after me. Which is why I'll never have kids and why I fucking hate them."

"That's not a reason to dislike kids, you old bat."

"And what makes you such a perfect citizen?"

"I... I just want to help out. I wasn't born with a silver spoon and a gold bonnet, you know!"

"Aren't bonnets mostly worn by women?"

Eren rubbed the back of his neck. "Yeah... it was my mother's bonnet and on cold nights she would give it to me. But that's not the point, it wasn't gold! The point is, it reminds me of myself in a way and I understand what they're going through. The only difference is I had my mom, they only have each other when the times get tough."

"Where was your dad?"

Eren blinked. He looked past Levi then inhaled. "He would usually be at the bar and hitting on prostitutes," Eren unzipped his jacket and held up his white button up shirt half way his abdominal. Levi eyes widen slightly taking in the light purple large marking on Eren's side trailing along his stomach with healed cuts varying sizes. "and when he got home, he would hit on me. B-but that wasn't when I was a baby, I was around seven when he first hit me."

"He cut you?" Eren put down his shirt and zipped up his jacket tucking his hands away in the pockets. "No. I used to get bullied and a girl I really liked used to cut herself to make her feel better. So i thought maybe if I did that, I. would feel better too."

"That's really fucking stupid."

"I know-"

"No, you don't know. Why would you mutilate yourself because some fuckface girl did it? I understand you were mentally confused, you still are now, don't get me wroñg. But why condone it? Why would you adapt it? If Mikasa was cutting herself I would force her to stop; I would force her to change. Not step aside and make matters worse and do the same to myself. What if something happened to you?!"

"Nothing did."

"That's not the point, Eren. You could have hurt yourself bad and where would you be now?!"

"Here."

"And how the fuck do you know that for sure? Huh? What if you died from cutting too deep or hitting an important vein or organ? What would Petra do about her photoshoot if you were gone? What about your mom? Or the Recon Agency? What about me?"

"...I don't see how I affect you-"

"You know damn well how you affect me, I can't stand you. But I'm not the concern here, you are."

"...See, you have a heart. You do give a shit about things."

"Fuck you."

Eren raised a brow and continued, ending their mini argument. "Even though I cut, the abuse never stopped. Whenever my mother got in, she would end up hurt too so I tried to take my dad on myself. One day, an officer came to my school. I thought I was going to jail because of a fight i got into a few days back. But instead I got the worst and best news of my life. Good news was my father went missing. His car would found at the bottom of a lake because he ran his car off a bridge. The police still don't know if it was suicide or if he's still alive. Bad news was that meant we would have nowhere to go. Dad was the only one working. When we lost the house, my aunt managed to score us a run down, shitty one bedroom apartment until my mom started working odd jobs to keep us fed. That was when I met my best friend Armin and his uncle took us in and gave us better shelter and a place to call home for a while,"

"When did you move to Rose Capitol?"

"When I was fifteen. To keep this short, my mom found this place and here we are. We live upstairs, I go to Rose University and... that's it. That's all you need to know."

"Fine by me... Your cookies are burning."

"What?"

"The oven, dumbass." Eren turned and opened the oven quickly, a black smoke rising and contaminating the air. Eren cough and reached in only to get burned by the heated metal pan. As Eren rolled up his sleeves and fumbled with Carla's kitchen gloves, Levi sat back obviously amused by the sight. He wanted to laugh. Really, the brat was asinine. There's no questioning it. And if anybody opposed the statement, Levi would not hesitate to step in and prove them dreadfully wrong.

When Eren set the pan on top of the counter and successfully fanned out the smoke, Levi clapped and swallowed back the laughter threatening to escape.

"Congradu-fucking-lations, brat. You fucked up."

Eren coughed and threw the gloves down. "And to think you're a potential housewife, you almost burned the place down."

"There wasn't a fire, it just... overcooked..."

Levi reached over the counter and picked up a singed cookie, watching the cookie crumble. "I dare you. Give this to the orphanage and watch those kids shove this up your ass."

Eren smirked. "It probably happened to you before. Or they thought you were one of them."

"...Tell me... what do you really mean by that?"

Oh Levi's famous death stare. Enough to make a grown man of a tower six foot want to crawl in a hole before the look sends them to their grave. Eren chuckled awkwardly and picked up a large bowl. He held it out to Levi with a frightened smile.

"It means help me make more cookie batter, shorty."

**~•~**

**7:02 PM**

**Shiganshina**

Eren felt at home. He felt protected yet threatened at the same time. Eren requested to drive with the roof down through the small city. He watched kids pass by with friends and family as they gathered candy and had fun. Sometimes he wished he was still a kid. But driving through these neighborhoods gave him the same feel as living in them. Dark rough times yet memorable. He held the bag full of cookies close and they turned the corner and parked close to the entrance. Eren carried two bags; one with cookies, the other with costumes he bought for him and Levi. Levi carried the gallon of lemonade Eren made earlier.

They walked inside and saw an older woman sitting down reading to children. The orphanage was small. There was a kitchen, a living room with a modern TV and toys scattered all over the fucking place to Levi's dismay. The kids turned their heads when they saw Eren and Levi and immediately on their feet run up to them.

"Kids, settle down. It's rude to shout at guest." The woman smiled and got up walking to the males and greeting herself. "I'm Maya. I got a call yesterday from an... Darwin Smith saying you two would like to take the kids trick or treating."

Eren laughed sweetly. "I believe it's Erwin Smith and yes, actually. I made cookies and lemonade earlier today for them as well." Levi rolled his eyes as the woman thanked them, thinking she was coming on too strong.

"I'm Eren and this is my boyfriend Levi." She turned to the shorter male and kissed his forehead making him scowl. It upset him slightly that the woman was a good four inches taller than him.

"You can place them on the kitchen counter and you can take the children out for treats." God, would it kill them to keep the place the least bit organized?! Levi nearly tripped over a plastic toy car and a doll that immediately said "Play with me." after he stepped on it. When they placed the snacks and beverage on the counter, Eren took Levi's hand and asked the woman for the bathroom.

"It's down the hall, take the second right."

Eren handed the bag to Levi after he took his costume out and said, "I did a little shopping before you came over to the café... b-because Erwin said we have to wear a costume tonight!" Eren lied. He walked off without a word leaving Levi in the living room.

"Hey mister," He looked down to see a little boy dressed as a scientist. His coat was an old bed sheet sewn together and hanging off his hands and dragged along the floor. "The fu... What kid?"

"Drink this!"

"...What is this?" Levi asked taking the coffee mug from the child.

"A spell! Or a magic potion! Wait, I'm not a wizard... am I?' He asked wryly. Levi shrugged, sniffing the cup. "I don't know, use your imagination. Is this dirt?"

The child nodded. "It's dirt with crushed egg whites and ketchup. It's a spell!"

"Noooooo! Mr, he's evil! Don't drink Colin's spell!" He looked to the right to see a little girl hopping over like a frog and whispering, "Between you and me, his spells turned me into a frog, ribbit!"

"You drank this?!"

The girl nodded and Levi grimaced, handed the cup back to the child named Colin. "Fucking disgusting..." he muttered. Levi turned to see Eren dressed as a... dog? Puppy? Wolf? It was simple; a dog collar, a leash, puppy ears, a black shirt with matching skinny jeans and converse, topping it off with paws.

"And what are you supposed to be?" The girl asked. "I'm a puppy, and Levi's a- where's your costume?'

"I'm wearing it. I'm Levi."

"That doesn't count."

"What the fuck else do you want from me?" Levi muttered so only Eren could hear. Eren hummed and smirked. "Well, I guess you as yourself is scary enough."

"You're lucky we're surrounded by kids, brat."

"I'm gonna name you... furry!" The girl announced, attaching herself to Eren's leg. "No! Spots!" Colin said, taking a hold of his other leg.

"Puppy!" A little boy exclaimed. And the army of young children ran up and attached themselves to Eren. "So why did you chose to be a dog? Besides the fact you are one?"

"When Erwin called me, he mentioned they've always wanted a puppy. And I am not a dog."

Levi leaned back and watched his "boyfriend" get tackled by overactive kids with a growing smirk on his face as an idea formed in his brain.

"Alright brats," he said with a clap of his hands. "Who wants to go trick or treating?"

**~•~**

Hate: To dislike intensely or passionately; feel extreme aversion for or extreme hostility toward; To be unwilling; dislike.

This statement was beyond an understatement in Eren's case. His feelings for Levi right now have gone out the window and replaced with a word exceeding hatred in every way, shape, and form. He was humiliated and angered. He never would've guessed what Levi meant saying "Who wants to go trick or treating?" he meant "who the fuck else wanna take advantage of Eren and treat him like a legitimate dog even though he's clearly a fucking human being and not a pet slash torture object for Levi and a piggy back ride for children."

Levi even wrote "Property of Levi Ackerman" and "If found, please return to 16065 N Sinadonna Lakes" on his collar. Why is it when you do a good deed... Levi will turn it against you?

The man walked proudly with Eren's leash in hand dragging the exhausted teen down the sidewalk as he used his strength to carry three children on his back who switched out every five minuets. They pulled on his cheeks and tugged his ears. But he was grateful to the little boy... Isaiah? because Isaiah fed him Snickers as they went house to house. And just like in the commercials, when you don't eat a snicker your a pissed off 50 meter monster destroying a city... he hoped these candies will turn him into a 50 meter titan so he could step on Levi like the old cynical ant he is.

"Tell me, dog, how are you doing back there?"

"I hope you have a heart attack," Eren spit bitterly. Levi glanced back and smirked. "That's not how you talk to your master, dog. Right brats?"

"Right!" the kids chanted in unison.

So what, Levi had his own army of little kids now? Is he some type of fucking dictator? Eren laughed as he said his thoughts aloud. "Haha! Levi, you have the perfect army! They're all your height! Ha, at least you don't have to feel intimidated standing next to them!"

Levi yanked his leash forward, making Eren yelp high-pitched. "Apologize."

"I'm sorry..." Eren mumbled.

"For?"

"You being the size of an overgrown infant."

_Smack!_

**~•~**

"Levi can we keep Spots?"

"Her name is Princess!"

"She's not a girl!"

"Levi! I wanna keep it!"

The man groaned angrily as the children pulled at hi pants leg and continued to argue and rant over Eren's pet name or what gender Eren is. Eren was forced onto Levi's lap as he held him down by his leash, holding his waist to his waist enjoying Eren's warmth.

"Shut up, brats and listen," when the kids settled down, Levi spoke. "His name his Brat and no you cannot keep him. He's my brat. And he's a girl."

"The hell?! You know damn well I'm a boy!" He said in Levi's ear quietly.

"I don't have proof brat. You could be hiding something," He placed his chin on Eren's shoulder and tightened his grip on Eren's leash.

"Who the fuc... who wants cookies?" Levi asked. The kids jumped happily and started shouting to get their sweets first. Honestly, the children didn't need anymore sweets but Levi was pleased with the mini brats.

"If you want cookies clean this pig's den up. I better not find a single toy on the floor." Eren smiled as the kids got to work, quickly following Levi's demands. He tugged forward making Levi lose his grips around his leash. Eren shifted on Levi's lap, turning his body so he could. face the shorter male, placing his legs on either side of Levi.

"Are kids still as bad as you think?" He draped his arms around Levi's neck and Levi tightened his grip around Eren's waist, pulling him over his crotch purposely. "I think they're little shits in general. But the kids aren't that shitty. Except that Colin and frog girl, they're fucking gross."

"You should've worn your costume. I spent like twenty dollars on it and I have to take it back."

Levi shook his head. "Don't do that. You paid for it, I'll keep it. But don't spend money on me, brat. Especially if you're on a budget."

"What are you gonna do with it?"

"Don't worry about it, I'll think of something." He pushed Eren off him gently and stood walking to the living room with a small, almost invisible smile. If you squint really hard you could see a smile ghosting his lips.

"Everybody sit down. Good, now this is how this'll work. Name one thing you like about Brat... and maybe you'll keep him... maybe."

Oh for fucks sakes... since when has Eren become a prize?

_Riiight_, when he dressed up like a dog wanted to be sold to a loving owner but instead his owner was Levi. At least that's what his collar said.

Each answer given was as expected innocent, vague and heart filled. While dirty thoughts ran through Levi's mind as he listened to each child's answer, he felt his heart tug at his chest. He wanted to vomit. This feeling was sickening and he felt like he wanted to slap himself to make the feeling calm the hell down.

Eren smiled as he watched Levi embrace the kids. The way he acted around them was as if he knew they all individually and vice versa. When each child had cookies and juice, Levi asked Eren to keep them company until he came back. When Eren asked where he was going, he got a "Stop being nosy fuck," as response.

Levi walked around the home and looked inside each room before he knocked on the only closed-door in the room.

"Come in," Levi opened the door and shut it behind him. "Oh, hello Levi. I hope the children were no problem for you. They're usually a hand full."

He tucked his hands into his jean pockets and said, "They aren't a hand full but they're not angels either."

He reached into his back pocket and pulled out his wallet, taking out all the money inside and handing it to the lady nonchalantly. "It's not a lot right now but it's all I have on me. Take it."

"You don't have to do that-"

But I want to." he deadpanned. "I'd feel like shit leaving here without giving anything. And I'll come back soon to give more. Trust me, I have a fuck ton of money that I have no fucking idea to do with."

She took he money skimming over it quickly before taking Levi's hand. "You're such a sweet boy; heaven sent."

"More like Hell sent. I'm nowhere near clean. My hands have already been stained." She nodded and put the money inside the drawer. "I'll buy the kids some clothes and food and I'll try to fix the bathroom sink."

"Like I said, I'll be back. It's getting late and I should drop Eren home." Levi turned on his heels and paced out. Feeling a little bit better about himself.

**~•~**

Levi yawned as he opened the front door to his home. He trudged upstairs, showered quickly and changed before collapsing on his bed. Isabel meowed, notifying Levi she was in the room before hopping on his bed and snuggling next to him.

"You spoiled shit," he said, petting her head. "Get the fuck off my bed before you sleep outside." The cat blinked and snuggled deeper onto his side, purring lowly.

He smirked and lifted her up setting her on the wood floor making her yowl angrily. "You can get your own place anytime, Isabel. Until then you can't do anything." he said as he dozed off into a light slumber.

A strong, disgusting aroma hit Levi's nostrils making him jump out of his deepening sleep and growled as he realized the situation at hand. "I really despise you right now." Isabel swayed and walked out the room as if she didn't just substitute the bathroom with his fucking shoes. "Well, I guess you can piss on my shoes you shit," Levi said. He picked up his tarnished shoes and threw them away before he washed his hands and wiped the floor.

As he settled back in bed, he caught notice of the white bag Eren brought with his costume. Now that he thought about it what did Eren get him? Curiousity got the best of him and a series of michevious thoughts ran through his mind as he pulled each item out the bag.

A maid's dress, stockings, an apron and a small card that said:

_I saw this and thought it sscreamed nagging, clean freak housewife and thought of you._

_~Eren_

He scoffed and placed the items back in the bag. As he rested against his headboard, he reread the simple note card with only one thing in mind.

_Good job brat. You just wrote your own future._

* * *

A/N: Hello my mini shortcakes! I have decided to post two chapters because I head back to anime school this Monday! (God, I wish...) and I'm not sure if I'll be able to keep up the two day post pace I started but I'll try. So if I'm not able to post on Tuesday, you have the next chapter. I should head to bed because it's one am where I am and I'm neglecting sleep.

Review Response:

CheshireKitKat: Don't worry, I will x)

MonkeyDL: Thank you and only Levi is French in this story. Eren is German in this. I read fanfics were Levi is French so I'm sure if it's true or if it's a fun thing. But Eren is for sure of German heritage

ella343e: Thanks for the support, I appreciate it.

DarkAngelz99: Hey, dont wish better for me, I should be wishing you the best of luck! I'm sorry to hear about your family, I know how that is. Stay strong and positive.

Lady-Mademoiselle: It's appealing because it' hasn't been done. I've searched for model AU's in the shingeki fandom and there aren't alot so I thought why not make one myself?

Mermaidhorse: Thanks a bunch!


	8. Chapter Seven: Strawberry Zabaglione

A/N: Some lime lies ahead.

.

**Levi's Home**

**6:24 PM**

"Levi, what's in the bag~ I wanna know~!"

The male gripped the handle on the prongs as flipped the thick chunk of ham, the smell of grilled ham and seasoning filled the backyard and scented the lively home. Quickly, he kneeled down and pushed the bag closer to his foot.

"What's. in. the bag?!" Hanji nearly shouted, she smiled widely and jumped waiting for the answer.

"None of your fucking business, four eyes. Now sit your annoying ass down."

"I'm bored! Erwin won't let me watch TV!"

Levi rolled his eyes. "That's not my problem. Go play with Petra or something, I'm busy."

"But she's upstairs with Auruo!" Levi's ears perked up hearing this. He narrowed his eyes dangerously unintentionally and mumbled, "Doing what, exactly?"

Hanji laughed like a madman, she hooked an arm around Levi and cooed, "I didn't know you were into that pervy stuff~ but I tried to listen but I couldn't hear anything but mumbling."

Levi pushed her away in disgust. "You say I'm the pervert?" Levi looked back when he heard the door unlock followed by footsteps, Mikasa's voice then Erwin's voice.

"Tell Mikasa come here, four eyes. Now you have something to do." Hanji left quickly. Her annoying voice asking Mikasa to go into the backyard and when Mikasa was there, Levi turned to his younger sibling.

"I want you to watch the food," He picked up the white bag and handed the prongs to her. "Why should I do this? I picked up Eren and his mom like you said. You can finish dinner."

"It's only for a few minuets. I'll come back down and help you, okay?" The woman stared at her brother, trying to read his expression before nodding her head and walking to the grill. "Hurry up." She said simply.

Levi mumbled a quick thanks and walked inside his home. He noticed Carla and Hanji sitting in the living room; Hanji bombarding Eren's mom with questions about his personal life. He then realized Eren was in the kitchen and paced towards it.

He entered the kitchen, cautious of Isabel's tail. He looked up to see Eren sitting at the kitchen counter, quickly typing away at his phone. Too busy to notice Levi standing only a few inches from him.

"I would hope you're not associating yourself another lover," Eren looked up quickly. He noticed Levi's voice was more enigmatic than sarcastic. He could see a faint playful smirk ghosting his lips. His eyes then wandered to the white bag from...

Dear god...

A bad feeling emerged from his stomach as thoughts circulated from his mind, thinking about what Levi was going to do. "What, you staring at me like I killed your dog and dangled him in front of you." Those infamous dark, dreadful attempts at humor that only Levi would find enjoyable and not the least bit disgusting.

"I-I'm not! I... I'm not talking to another lover, it's Armin. And you're not my lover, old man!" Levi scoffed and walked closer to Eren. When he was standing in front of the younger male, he shoved the bag into Eren's chest and smirked darkly.

"Remember when I said, and I quote: Don't worry about it, I'll think of something?" Eren responded with a timid shake of his head.

"Well I thought about it brat. And I'm sure it'll be fun... for me."

Eren set the bag down. "I'm not putting that thing on! It's yours, not mine! You're taking this whole "relationship" scandal to a new level. I know we're still a "thing" but we're at home. No paparazzi, no fans. Plus my mom is here!... And I don't care what sick kinks you want to satisfy."

Levi crossed his arms, clearly unphased by Eren's ridiculous rant. "It's not exactly a "kink" I want you to fulfill. It's more like... punishment."

"For what?! I didn't do shit to you!"

"Eren, are you alright?" Carla called from the living room. Eren rolled his eyes and yelled a quick "I'm fine," before focusing on Levi.

He noticed a devious look on Levi's face that made Eren uncomfortable. Levi took a few steps back before saying, "She doesn't know, does she?"

"You mean my mom? Of course not. Why would I tell her I'm dating a douchebag?" Levi shrugged. "Good point, you shit. Like strike a deal."

"Nope. I don't do deals anymore. And knowing you, you'll find someway to screw me over."

"Yes, I will. But this deal is simple and it's not a dangerous one at that; just humiliating."

"I'm not doing it," he turned back to his phone and went online. Seeing this, Levi snatched his phone and held it away from him. "Give it back, you old bat!"

"Listen to me and you'll get your shitty phone back."

"I don't have to listen to you. Why don't you find the nearest daycare to take over? The nearest one is within a mile radius." The shorter man gripped the phone tightly making Eren squeal as a small crack formed in the upper left corner. "This phone is a piece of shit. Like you. Now, if you want this back shut the hell up, sit down and listen to my instructions. Got that?"

When Eren nodded, Levi loosened his grip. He slid the phone into his pocket and looked at Eren.

"If you don't want your precious mommy finding out about us, I'd suggest growing some balls and do as I say. For dinner, I want you to service our guest in that maid's outfit you got me."

"My mom is sitting out there on your fucking couch, and you want me to walk out dressed as your petty little servant?!" He yelled hushed.

"...Yes. Seems like you're not completely mentally handicap after all."

"I'm not stupid, old man. I don't want my mom seeing me like that, it's embarrassing," He put his hands on his face at the thought of it. "It's bad enough she thinks I'm dating Mikasa."

"...What was that?"

Eren looked up. "She thinks that Mikasa and I will be a good match and we'll make beautiful children one day. With my eyes and her hair."

Levi scowled and inhaled deeply. "Then you're definitely wearing this. Like hell your mom's gonna to play matchmaker with my sister. And why the fuck you?"

"Thanks for the confidential boost."

"You're fucking welcome. Now put on the dress, fuckface. You have guest to serve."

**~•~**

"You have outdone yourself, Levi. You haven't cooked this much in a while." Erwin said, watching the foil wrapped trays of food placed in the middle of the table. "I helped cook this too." Mikasa said, taking her seat across from where Eren's supposed to sit.

"Ah, you too Mikasa."

Auruo's hand reached to undo to the foil to dive in but it was quickly smacked away. "It's impolite to eat without Eren," Petra scolded. "Speaking of Eren, where is he?"

"Right-whoa! Ri-right here..." Silence. The thickening awkward silent lurking through the air except for Hanji's over excited breathing. Eren shyly tugged at the annoying frills on the dress. Feeling rather feminine doing so. "You almost busted your ass in those heels, I'm not looking forward to paying for you medical expense in the hospital." The short man said bitterly.

Mikasa kicked Levi and shot a dark look at him. With her expression alone Levi knew she wanted an explanation behind this. But he wasn't giving one up anytime soon. Oh no, not while he was enjoying it.

Carla cleared her throat and asked slowly, "Why are you dressed like that?!"

"Please don't ask," he muttered back. He straightened his posture and walked with slow, cautious steps around the table, leaning over Erwin and Mikasa's shoulders to unwrap the food. Eren could feel everybody's eyes staring solely at him. Their gazes were uncomfortable but he stuck through it with dark red cheeks. When he walked past Levi, he felt a small slap at his ass making him yelp high pitch and growl. He stood in place for a moment, using all his strength not to snap and continued to feed Levi's guest.

Once everyone had food on their plates, he was finally seated next to his mother. She glanced at her son who picked away mindlessly at his food. "Eren, shouldn't you also provide us with drinks?" Levi asked.

"I think Eren's done enough," Petra said quickly. She stood and said, "Wine anybody? My specialty." She hurried to the kitchen with Auruo in pursuit.

"Eren~" Hanji cooed. "You look so cute! Ah, this maid idea was absolutely cute! Are you into that kind of stuff?! Huh!? Is it some type of fetish?"

"Stop creeping him out, four eyes. And stop with your intolerable questioning." Levi said with a sharp tone.

Hanji rolled her eyes. "It's just a few questions. Now, Eren, do you enjoy cross dressing? Are you into cosplaying kinky stuff? I mean a maid is pretty sexual-Ow! Calm yourself Levi. I'm sorry you have a short temper. Ahahaha~!"

"Real fucking clever, you shit. Now why don't you take your clever ass and get the hell out my house? I don't need to take your shit."

"Can't take a joke, Levi. Shame on you~ It's bad not to laugh often, you'll end up lonely and with no sex life and... oh... sorry..."

Petra returned with full glasses of wine, placing them in front of everybody before taking her seat.

"The brat can't drink," Levi said casually, pressing the glass to his lips.

"I insist," Petra retorted. "It's a Strawberry Zabaglione. My favorite desserts with wine."

Eren picked up the glass, drinking it slowly and loving the taste. From there, dinner carried on like normal and when Eren was comfortable, began eating. When he took a bite of his macaroni, he bite into something hard. He looked at Eren and asked, "What the hell is in this? I bit something hard."

"It's probably bacon you shit. Or maybe it's the fucking chicken, dumbass. Now shut up and eat your food." Eren chewed slowly, testing out the piece before swallowing it and drinking a mouthful of wine behind it. He shivered softly then finished the rest of his ham.

Carla seeing this, rubbed his back softly and kissed his cheeks. She then asked softly, "Why are you doing this?"

"What?"

"Dressed like that. I know you'd have more morals than to dress like that. I want an answer. And I don't want "Because I wanted to" as an answer because I know that's bullshit."

"Levi... is a prick." he whispered.

She casted a dark glance at the smaller male who ate his food as if he did nothing wrong. "He made you do this?"

Eren nodded his head and before Carla could get up and beat the shit out of the cynical old man, Eren stopped her. "You can't do anything. Stay out of this!"

"How can I not do anything? You're my son and this is completely inappropriate!" Eren sighed, pushing his locks out of his eyes. "B-because you can't. No matter how much I want to leave this bastard, I can't."

"And why the hell not? This isn't a good thing!"

"I know, I understand that. Just drop it, okay?"

"I'm not dropping this, you-"

"Stop worrying about me!" Eren shouted. "I'm not a kid anymore, so stop! Just fucking drop it already!"

Carla scowled and turned away from her son. "Then I won't worry about it. You're nineteen, you're an adult. So I guess you don't need me, huh?"

"I didn't mean it like that."

"You sure said it like it." Eren stood quickly, escaping the situation with wobbly steps and walked up stairs.

"Carla, you should-"

"I don't want to hear it, Erwin. He's my son and you know how it goes, mother knows best."

Hanji smiled and said, "That's riiight~ Speaking of mothers knows best, how do you feel about him dressed like that? Pretty hot right?"

"Hanji, stop it," Erwin said lowly. "I can't have any fun! I want to arrange a photo shoot! How about a maid Eren and a Prince Levi! Or how about Eren as Levi's slave?! Or how about the other way around?!"

A slam of table wear sounded and an angry Levi stood. "I'm sick of this shit. I'm heading up stairs where I don't have to listen to her nonstop bullshit. This is ri- goddamn- diculous. I'll see you all later."

~•~

Levi walked up stairs and followed the trail of black heeled pumps and stockings scattered about leading to the guest room. He opened the door and saw Eren sitting at the foot of the bed with his face buried in his hands. He closes the door behind him, making Eren look up angrily. "What the fuck do you want now? You got your sick laughs and fucked up how everyone's respect for me. What else do you want from me?" Levi next to Eren, resting back on his elbows.

"...I ah... look kid, I'm not a person who apologizes but I guess I can say I'm sorry." Eren rolled his eyes pushing Levi away from him. "You're a joke, you old dick."

"How so?" Levi asked nonchalantly. "Like you'll ever be sorry. You'll just keep up with this crap and act as if it's nothing! I'm sick of it!"

"Calm down brat, you'll give yourself high blood pressure and your balls haven't dropped yet."

Eren's eyes twitched softly and he groaned, falling backwards onto the bed, completely out of it. He was done. He was sick of the torture, he was sick of the fame, and most importantly, he was sick of Levi. Just fucking sick of everything. He wanted his old life back. No. He needed his old life back.

But Levi's mindset was entirely different from Eren's.

Levi couldn't help but take in Eren's body. He wasn't afriad to admit his body looked too good in that outfit. Eren pulled the dress off much better than Levi could. He looked so innocent. So pure like a newborn baby. Absolutely no impurities or sins against him. He was an angel. An angel Levi wanted for so long. Now was the perfect time. He should take him now while he had the chance...

A light flutter arose from his chest making him tsk in disgust and discomfort. This fucking feel was back, just like the day of the photo shoot. Shit, but this feeling was stronger. It wasn't guilt or missing someone dear to him. It was much different. It was a feeling that made you want to throw up and ignore but you can't because it keeps pestering you! Is this... disgusting. This feeling was nothing more than sexual tension and Levi needed to relieve it; Via Eren.

"Tu es tellement vulnérable, Eren," Levi said lowly. He slowly crawled towards Eren. The boy sat up quick, hearing his name. "What did you say?"

Eren took in the dark and...seductive? smirk on Levi's face. Out of instinct, Eren crawled backwards trying to escape the smaller male's uncharacteristic glare.

"Je me demande comment vous regardez cul..." Eren's back leaned against the pillows and his head hit the dashboard with an audible thump. Levi crawled in between Eren's legs, pinning his wrist down to the bed. Why wasn't Eren fighting back?! His brain screamed from Eren to move and push the filthy geezer off him. But his body was more in control; and his body said stay still and don't move.

" Vous auriez l'air si belle sur vos genoux..." Levi purred lowly in his ear, nibbling softly on the skin underneath his ear. Eren clenched his fist and said, "Stop speaking French. I can't understand you." His eyes dilated as Levi kissed along his neck; sucking thin skin trying to leave a mark. A dog collar with his name saying Eren was his property was feeble. But leaving a love bite meant Eren was his and only his.

"Voulez-vous vraiment me comprendre? Oui ou non, gamin?" Qui means yes! So non meant no...

"Oui?" Eren replied wryly, inhaling a sharp intake of breath when Levi's cold hands moved along Eren's inner thigh, rubbing smooth circles on the skin dangerously close to his length which was restricted behind lace panties Levi decided to buy as part of the costume. At least a size too big for Eren's hips so they hung a little loose along his hips.

Levi chuckled, pushing Eren's weight against the headboard, sitting him up and sliding his hands underneath Eren. He propped the taller onto his lap and grouped him happily.

"Parler une langue que vous comprenez, c'est ennuyeux. Alors vas te faire encule. Dieu, ton cul est incroyable. Vous êtes presque-" Eren wrapped his arms around Levi's neck tight, feeling light headed. His stomach grumbled and bubbled, making Levi grow slightly concerned.

"Oi, you alrigh-" Eren was quick on his feet, nearly tripping over in the process but made a B-line to the bathroom. He clumsily closed the door halfway before hunching over and throwing up. Levi wrinkled his nose and muttered, "Such a fucking turn off..." before getting on his feet and walking to the bathroom door. He knocked softly, listening to the disgusting sounds from Eren. "You better not vomit on my floor, you brat. I just mopped." Eren coughed up viciously, followed by more sickening sounds.

He pushed open the door and kneeled besides the teen, rubbing soothing circles on his back. Eren groaned loudly, falling backwards against the tub.

The man took some toilet paper and cleaned the vile from the corner of his lips. Eren's head lolled onto Levi's shoulder. The man pressed his hand against Eren's head as he slowly drifted to sleep. "Jesus," Levi muttered. He pulled Eren to his feet and ushered him to the bathroom counter, running cold water into the sink. "I want you to wash your face. Do not put the water on anything but cold. I'll get you some clothes, okay?"

Out the corner of his eyes, he watched as Levi paced out the bathroom. His body wanted to shut down on him. He had no energy left. As if everything was slowly down and blurred. He took a dizzy step, quickly catching himself and using the bathroom counter as leverage.

Shit, I need to keep my eyes open... I can't sleep yet...

He took another step, this time falling over and knocking his face against the door frame. He lied there, listening to the hazy water fill the sink soon to run over. The room was falling dark and all he wanted to was sleep.

This all felt like a dream to him; A bad dream that he didn't want.

But everybody knows sooner or later, at some point, you have to wake up.

* * *

A/N:Translations (Apologies if they're wrong):

"Je me demande comment vous regardez cul..." ~ "I wonder how you'd look ass up..."

"Vous auriez l'air si belle sur vos genoux..." ~ "You'd look so beautiful on your knees..."

"Voulez-vous vraiment me comprendre? Oui ou non, gamin?" ~ "Do you really wish to understand me? Yes or no brat?"

"Parler une langue que vous comprenez, c'est ennuyeux. Alors vas te faire encule. Dieu, ton cul est incroyable. Vous êtes presque-" ~ "Speaking a language you'll understand is boring. So fuck you. God, your ass is amazing. You're almost-"

Again, I'm very sorry if they're incorrect translations. But thank god for Levi's French dirty talkin' ;)

.

Hello my mini cakes! Thanks for reading and supporting this story as I always say~

I hatee how i paced this chapter but I'm on the bus and I'm trying to type this out, watch my sister and ignore my friend Ethan who's trying to see what I'm trying up.

Wait, speaking of the bus and friends, did you guys go back to school this week? If so, how was it? and if not, lucky you. Angst will start from this chapter so next chapter will be focused more on Levi and Eren's relationship and shiz like that.

Anyways, it's 6:30-ish so I gotta head off to school.

Till next time, stay sweet~

Review Response:

ella343e: Mhm. Definite relationship tension. But'll be love-hate relationship instead of full on lovey-dovey.

Pupples: Tell me about it. But unfortunately, slapping somebody is considered "violence"... even if you have a reason to.

CeruleanCat: Awesome. There are some really good Riren/Ereri fanfics out there. Some of my inspiration for this is the author Lunatrancy

Letyourselfgo42: And it'll keep getting better. And this is not the last of that costume. It cannot go this way xD

Lovely-Bunny: Thanks. I'll try to add fluff to lighten the story a little.

neekuchiki: Website please~ I'd love to read it

Hibary-Hiwatari: Penalty game is set but not done. We will be seeing the maid outfit again.

Mermaidhorse: MrHouseWife... I gotta start using that :3


	9. Chapter Eight:Pomegranate Cherry Pudding

"Mama! Papa!" The seven year old Eren ran to his parents. The sun was shining bright above, kissing his skin.

His feet ran swiftly through the sand before reaching the large beach blanket where his parents sat and ran into his mother's embrace. He snuggled his mother, inhaling her deeply immediately recognizing her. Her brown locks tickled the side of his chubby cheeks making him grin wider. Finally he looked up to see Carla moving her hair from her eyes with a gentle smile on her face.

"Mama, I wanna go in the water! Can we go?! Can we go?!"

Carla giggled softly and kissed Eren's nose before saying, "The waves are crashing onto shore and it's a rough current out there. Plus you can't swim."

The boy's smile died a little but his face changed into determination. He gripped Carla's hand. "I promise I'll stay close to shore, I won't go too far out! Plus I'll wear a floatie and papa can watch me!" Eren inhaled a soft breath.

The woman was no longer focused on her son. Instead she changed her view and stared out into the ocean, watching the current get stronger with each crash on shore. Her demeanor seemed to change. Her lips thinned and her eyes narrowed. Soon she replied, "Go ahead."

He let go of his mother's hand slowly, a look of confusion and skepticism on his face as he took a few steps back. Eren stared at his mother for a bit who sent dark sideways glances at him. But, he decided to ignore the butterflies, adjusted his floatie and ran out towards the ocean.

He took slow, hazardous steps into the big blue and within minuets his tiny, stubby feet could no longer reach the ocean floor.

"Mama, look at me!"

...

"Mommy, look at me! I can swim, see!" Eren called out, he used his small hands to keep in steady from the ocean's current, attempting to keep himself for drifting away from shore.

...

"Mommy?... Can you still hear me? I'm right here, mommy; please look at me!" He watched as Carla muttered something and stood along with Eren's father.

"Go get him, Grisha."

The man scowled and walked slowly put the ocean. "Are you sure I should get him?"

"Go get him. I'm not asking again." Her voice was demanding; threatening. The man finally dived in, the cold water gracing his heated skin. Eren only watched from afar. He was well awear his father's coming to save him but in all reality, he wanted his mom to acknowledge him. Finally, a force broke through the surface making Eren jump back but a hand caught his arm before he could drift away.

"Are you ready to go, Eren?" The boy smiled and latched onto his father, holding onto his shoulders tightly and burying his head into Grisha's shoulder-blade. "Mhn, I'm ready, I'm sure mommy's waiting for- daddy?"

Salty. Disgusting, irritating salty water that filled Eren's tiny lungs in a flash. He kicked his feet and wailed his arms rapidly as he tried to break through the water's surface but he was only held deeper into the dark blue. He could see his father staring down at him though the water offered a hazy, wavy blur.

Eren's oxygen supply was thinning and he knew he didn't have much left. He wanted to get out, the water suffocating him was hurting him in such ways words can't describe.

But in that moment, the young Eren realized a dreadful, haunting thing: The ocean is a beautifully cruel thing.

**~•~**

Levi woke up to a sharp hit to his face from none other than Eren's elbow.

"Oi, you shitty brat!" Levi sat up suddenly, feeling his bruised jaw line. He wanted to push Eren off the bed out of aggravation but the idea quickly slipped away after recognizing Eren's soft whimpers resonating through the room.

"Eren?" Levi glanced towards Eren. His voice was low and gentle. He watched Eren's fist curl and uncurl as he twist and turned uncomfortably.

Levi grimaced at the sweat soaking Eren's bandaged forehead

"Brat, come on wake up."

Levi looked up quickly at the heart monitor as the beeping sped up along with Eren's breathing. What the hell is wrong with him?!

Levi's heart dropped into his stomach as a swarm of bad things came to him. Without thinking he placed his arm over his chest, careful of the wires protruding from his body and shook him slowly yet forcefully.

"Come on brat, get up." He remained calm. No way in hell was Levi going to sound panicked. But he wasn't scared to say he was. Eren clutched onto the hospital sheets, making Levi's facial features soften. "Come on, come on! Wake the fuck up, Eren! Don't kill yourself, you brat! You're heart needs to slow the fuck down.."

Levi stopped shaking Eren and instead took his hand and swallowed thickly. He held Eren's hand tightly and smoothed the sweat filled bangs from his eyes. "You piece of shit..." he muttered.

The mumbling became rapid, and his breathing was uneven. Levi's heart panged in his chest as he caught his mother's name and a man named Grisha? in Eren's frantic spew of words.

A nightmare? How childish. Levi thought. He rubbed smooth circles on the back of the teen's hand, mumbling softly.

Eren gripped Levi's hand before his eyes flew open. Panicked sea green eyes enlarged and frightened. He reached out to search for anything solid, finding grip with Levi's shoulder. His grip tightened as Levi wrapped his arms around Eren's torso, holding him securely. Eren shivered before struggling to release himself of Levi's embrace.

"No! Stay away from me!" Eren cried. He waved his arms around before hitting Levi on his back. The shorter man threw Eren down on the hospital bed wincing in pain. His hands balled to fist as he stood on his feet and tried his best no to hurt Eren. That was the last thing he wanted to do.

"What the fuck was that for?! You're the one pissing yourself in your sleep like a bitch!"

Eren growled, hauling himself back and away from Levi. "Stay away from me! Don't touch me! Don't hurt me anymore!"

"What the hell are you talking about? Hurt you? I tried to help your dumbass."

"You're all against me," Eren clawed at his face, his breathing became ragged again as he began to rock back and forth. He started past Levi and the shorter male noticed his darkened orbs. "You're all against me... you-you-you're all pigs!"

"Who's against you?"

"All of you! Mom, dad, Mikasa, Armin, Petra, you! You're all monsters, just leave me alone!"

"...Did you vomit your brains out too or are you just that fucking stupid? It's a damn nightmare, get the hell over it. Why are you taking it seriou-"

"Shut up," Eren spit bitterly.

"Eren-"

"I said shut the hell up! Shut up! Shut up! Shut up, shut up, shut up, shut up, shut up, SHUT UP!" Eren tugged at his hair, resting his back against the wall with a distressed look. Levi opened his mouth to say something but nothing cane out. Instead, he looked at Eren with no emotion. He stood about a good length from Eren, completely unphased by his uncharacteristic behavior. Eren's eyebrow twitched making Levi wrinkle his nose.

"I want you to die. Go crawl in a hole and croak! How about I kill you? One slit to the neck? A stab through the heart? Huh? Or-or how about a gunshot to the head? T-there all quick and painless!"

"I don't know what medication they're giving you, but it's driving you bat shit crazy." Levi began walking out but before he could reach the door a loud crash was heard, followed by quick footsteps.

An elongated beep filled the room.

Levi turned quickly, a sharp object slicing the first layer of skin on his cheek. Eren's arm launched back ready to strike Levi. The man noticed the object was a large white piece of glass which he recognized as the flower vace Carla got him.

"You can't kill me, if I kill you first! I'll kill you all! I'll kill all of you!" Levi maneuvered to the left, avoiding the attack. He pushed Eren back said, "Are you fucking insane?! What the hell's gotten into you?!"

"What's going on in here?" Levi and Eren turned to see a man standing in the door way taking in the situation. "Why did your monitor flat line?"

"He's trying to kill me!" Eren exclaimed quickly, his hands searched the floor for the glass to try to finish Levi off.

Levi sent a dark glare at Eren. "Kill you? You're out your goddamn mind, Jeager. If anything, I was trying to avoid being killed by that angsty, over emotional teenager."

"I'm not over emotional, you're all trying to hurt me! You're all a threat-"

"Stop fucking saying that! The only thing that's a threat in here is you! Trying to go on a killing spree with a fucking glass vace; that sounds pretty fucked up to me!"

A broad hand rested against Levi's shoulder. He pushed the hand away and turned on his heels. "Is there something you want?" he asked coldly.

"I believe visitor hours are over. Please, come with me,"

"..." Levi's brow furrowed questioningly. It was only quarter past the hour and visiting time was over at eight forty.

...but then again, getting the fuck away from Eren before he tries to slaughter his guts over the wall with a Get Well card seemed like a good idea. The hospital worker called in an assistant who guided Eren safely back into bed while the man escorted Levi out and to the waiting rooms.

"What in god's name is wrong with him? Is there a reason he's completely out of it? This kid is bouncing off the homicidal manic walls and it's creeping me the fuck out."

The man sat down with a long sigh. He pinched the bridge of his nose and mumbled, "When you first brought him here and we did tests, we found a drug in his system. It's unidentified at the moment but for now it's along the lines of PCP to legal highs. Though, it's more likely PCP due to his unstable, psychotic state. He's been having some really bad hallucinations. There's also some alcohol in his system which is also affecting his nervous system and we may or may not let him go depending on his condition later in the week."

Levi took a tissue from the table and sat down, wiping his bleeding cheek. "PCP?" he said with a rise of a brow. "Drugs are for fucking idiots. Where the hell would he get PCP or any of that shit?"

"In the Sina district it's easy to obtain from local dealers. Do you want a band-aid for that?"

"No. This isn't about me, this is about that mentally unstable brat in the room. I always knew he had problems. From first glance he looked like the type of kid who would crack easily but he's the opposite. But I never liked the idea of giving him alcohol but it was only to fuck with him."

The doctor tapped his chin. "Who gave him alcohol?"

"We were at a dinner party at my house. A friend of mine made her favorite dessert which does contain some alcohol."

"You're lucky it wasn't full on liquor. Otherwise, Eren would've overdosed right then and there and that would have been death on your watch. Do you know anybody who lives in Sina who may be able to get their hands on drugs?"

Levi nodded. "Yes, a few close ties."

"Are they family?"

"I have a sister. That's it."

"What's her first and last name, date of birth and age?"

"None of your fucking business, born in Shitember and she's fuck you years old. Any more questions?"

"I uh... no sir."

Levi took a seat in front of the doctor, cozying into the cliche furniture. "When I came back upstairs, I found Eren laying on the floor and his nose was bleeding. Which is one of the reasons I brought him here."

"He hit his head pretty hard which may have triggered something. I wouldn't say he was dying but he was pale and cold which I could understand why you were scared. Bringing him here was a good thing, if we didn't put him on treatment soon enough well..."

Levi stood quickly and said, "I've heard enough. I'll be back to check on the brat later."

"Wait, where are you going?!" The doctor called.

Too late. Levi was already out the building, inhaling deeply the fresh November air. He zipped up his jacket as the winds started to pick up. He walked to his car with long, quick strides and when he was inside, started it and pulled off.

**~•~**

The first thing he did was head downtown, made a few turns stopped at two lights then finally turned into the city plaza and parked near the large building with the name _**ACKERMAN**_ on top.

He paced inside quickly to avoid the soft chills. It's been while since he's last been inside Mikasa's gym. The last time he was here was about four months ago when she didn't have lunch and Levi offered to bring her something.

He could hear the loud music mix in with Mikasa's strong voice followed by synchronized hits to a punching bag. "Alexandrea, your jab should be with your opposite hand. You're right-handed, correct?"

"Right!"

"Then you should be punching with your left hand." Levi walked past the receptionist counter who flashed a quick smile to the man. He walked into studio B-3 and knocked on the open door.

"Oi, Mikasa," he called. The woman's head whipped around, he hands still correcting her student's faults. "Levi? Why are you here?!"

"It's Levi!"

"That's the actually Levi!"

"Mikasa, you know him!?"

"Ah! I want your autograph!"

"Me too!"

"Can I get a picture!"

"No, I want the picture!"

The man groaned and took a few steps back as the swarm over young to middle-aged women began to crowd him. Mikasa only stood, placing a gloved hand on her hip before sighing heavily. She sent a threatening look to her older sibling, making him roll his eyes in annoyance.

"What happened to your face?"

"Oh my god is he bleeding?! Someone get a paramedic!"

"I know CPR!"

"I know it too!"

"CPR and an ambulance is unnecessary. It's a fucking cut." Levi responded, pinching the bridge of his nose.

"You're so cute! I bet the cut's from Eren!"

"Where's Eren? I want a picture of him too!"

"Are you guys still dating?!"

"I hope you didn't break up!"

"Where's Eren?!" Levi felt a wave of guilt come over him hearing Eren's name. He chewed his bottom lip softly and said, "Eren's a little sick right now."

"He spoke to me!"

"Nuh-uh! He spoke to me, he was staring at me with those pretty eyes!" These woman act as if Levi wasn't human but an object. Of course he could speak what the fuck did they think he is?

"Wait...Pretty eyes...? The only one with pretty eyes is Eren..." Shit, he said that aloud. And the crowd screamed in delight, immediately snapping photos of the model. His eyes darkened realizing the stupid mistake.

A loud sound rippled through the air, causing Levi's heartbeat to jump. It was Mikasa's whistle and it worked to. The women lined up in front of the trainer as she stood displeased by their behavior. She let the whistle drop and rest against her chest.

Hm... maybe Levi should get a whistle instead... or just use Mikasa as a bodyguard.

"You're actions are unacceptable," Her voice was calm and commanding. Her voice was one of a leader, it was no wonder why everyone listened to her. "Now," she bent down and picked up a bottle of water and drapped a towel around her shoulders.

" I expect all of you to get back to work and go through all the drills until I get back."

Levi smirked as he watched the women begin, getting into their beginning poses and finally getting to work. Mikasa walked past her brother without a word, leading him outside the gym. Once they were outback she immediately asked, "Why are you here? I told you not to come unless I call."

"I know, I know," Levi closed the door and ran his hand through his locks.

"That's the exact reason you can't come around here. I don't want my name in media."

"I understand that, alright? I would'nt come here unless I really need too."

Mikasa smoothed her hair back and tied it up in a bun. "How's Eren? Is he okay, has he been released?"

Levi shook his head. "No. He's paranoid as fuck right now and tried to slit my throat with a glass vace," he turned his face, showing her the irritated wound on his face. She walked to her brother and rubbed the cut with her thumb. "He did this? What did you do?"

He pushed her hand away. "How do you know I did anything to the shit?"

"You always do just to get a sick laugh out of it. Remember, you put the poor boy in a maid outfit and heels."

"Like that'll be the last time..." He muttered. "But this time I didn't do anything except try to make sure he was alright."

"I see."

"PCP."

"What?"

"The doctors believe he has PCP in his system, though it hasn't been confirmed yet. I left in charge of dinner, you helped cook the meat but you made the sweet potato salad, the mashed potatoes... the macaroni."

Mikasa rose an unimpressed brow. "I did. Eren told me he likes macaroni and it's been a while since he's last had it. So i decided to make some."

"He told me he bit into something hard."

"Okay...so?"

"PCP can come in capsules, meaning you hid a pill in his food without him knowing."

"Levi, that is the stupidest assumption I've ever heard. Do you have any proof? Why are you throwing me under the bus when I didn't do anything?"

"It have to have been you. You were the only person in the kitchen."

"You're terrible. Why would you think that?! I would never hurt Eren!"

"Bullshit! You're trying to get rid of him so nobody can take me away from you. I'll always be your "big brother" huh? You can't stand the fact that someone else will have me."

"Open your damn eyes Levi! I would never hurt Eren, he means something to me; he's like an alternate version of you. Why would I want to hurt someone who's means something to me? And it makes it worse that your spewing all that crap about me! Of course you'll always be my big brother, you're all I have. You and Eren are the closest things I have to call family, so why would I try to get rid of family?!"

"..."

She marched to Levi and gripped his shoulders tightly, shoving him harshly against the building. "Answer me,"

"Let me the fuck go!"

"No! I can't believe you right now!" He grip tightened and she brought her head to Levi's chest. "How could you think so poorly of me? I've known you for eight years, dammit. We've lived through hell, we know what it's like to go days without eating and not knowing where we're gonna lay our heads that night. If I hurt Eren, I'd hurt you; if I kill Eren, It'd kill you too. I don't want you to suffer. You didn't let me down so why would I let you?"

"...Look I-"

"You're stressed out. You're worried about Eren and I get that," she raised her head and released her strong grip. "But you can't go around accusing people because that'd look bad on your part. Especially if you're wrong." Levi could heard the sharpness in her voice. Like venom from a snake pulsing through him rapidly,

She opened the gym door. "I have a class to get to. I... I should go,"

"Wait but-!"

"And by the way, I wasn't the only one in the kitchen."

**~•~**

Levi felt like shit. He rested his head against the steering wheel and mumbled a rant of profanities. Not only was Eren homicidal and in the hospital but he pissed off his Mikasa as well. Plus he had no fucking idea who put Eren in this predicament and his chest would not stop pounding on top of that; god, he was tired of this bullshit. He couldn't stop thinking about Eren and what he did to Mikasa was shitty and knowing that made him feel more like shit.

Oh today is just a win.

Why couldn't he be a sociopath and not care bout how others felt and not feel sympathy for no one but himself? Sometimes, life just isn't fair.

His phone buzzed and annoyed he read the text.

**Hanji**: Holy shit! Eren's crazy! We're at the hospital BTW

**Levi: **I couldn't have fucking guessed. And I know, it's just a drug he took that's making him paranoid as shit. Who's with you?

**Hanji: **Erwin and Carla. He's vicious towards him mom... he's kinda scaring me D: This is like a horror movie and Eren's a psycho escape patient who goes on a wild killing rampage wand kills everyone he hates!

**Levi: **You're a psycho escape patient four eyes. Oi, shitty glasses, do me a favor

**Hanji: **No, I do not have advice on how to grow taller

**Levi: **You're lucky I'm not in the same room as your blind ass. I need you to tell me what you can on PCP

**Hanji: **...

**Hanji; **You shouldn't do drugs. No matter how depressed you are

**Levi:** _Th_anks doctor fuckface, I really needed the medical tip. I know that and it's not for me. The doctor says he has that drug in his system and that's fucking with his nervous system. So what do you know about it, I don't have all fucking day.

**Hanji: **Well, back in college when I was studying to be a scientist, I tested how drugs effect the human body and the state of mind. PCP also know as Phencyclidine or commonly called Angel Dust. It's basically a hallucinogen. It was developed as an anaesthetic and painkiller. It might make you feel really happy and upbeat but in Eren's case, he's very panicky and paranoid. He believe things that aren't true which makes him more aggressive and violent. That's about it...

**Levi: **Alright shitstain, thanks

**Hanji: **Anytime short stuff ^_^

**Levi: **By the way, was anybody else in the kitchen with mikasa yesterday?

**Hanji: **I dunno

**Levi: **Fucking useless as always

**Hanji: **I didn't have to explain PCP to you! Take your ass on Google next time!

Levi scowled and turned on his car, pulling out the parking lot and pulling out onto the main road. He gripped his wheel as the words "next time" invaded his head. It made him sick to his stomach knowing Hanji said those words. As if Levi would let something like this happen to Eren again, Mikasa would never forgive him! Mikasa?

Levi scratched his head aa he said his thoughts softly, "Is it really Mikasa who'd never forgive me?... Or am I using her as an excuse to not forgive myself?"

Damn brat. What the hell is he doing to Levi? His feelings have never been this intense before and it was extremely sickening! It's just worry for the brat. Everyone who's acquainted with the fucker are having these mixed feelings too. It wasn't just Levi...

He glanced to the passenger seat where his brat should be sitting. He should be in awe at the sights, watching the sunset with the roof down just the say he likes it. Then Levi should be making sarcastic jokes to the brunette who'd reply with something equivalent to the comment but sugar-coated.

...Maybe Mikasa's right.

Eren is an alternate version of Levi; while he's a brash and insulting person, Eren is possesses great amounts of selflessness, perseverance, fortitude, and vigorous determination. Eren is special; to both Levi and Mikasa. Eren's that positively Levi and Mikasa needed in their life to mix things up a bit. And Levi wasn't going to let that slip away so easily.

He smiled light and said, "I swear, Eren, there won't be a next time. For your sake, Mikasa's and mine."

* * *

A/N: This chapter was a fucking rollercoaster! I almost cried typing out Mikasa's dialogue. I had to add some sibling bittersweetness in there!

I've been wanting to write a paranoid Eren for some time now soo I decided to drug him :)... yeah... I don't think I should be so proud of myself... but I wanted someway to try to bring out Levi's repressed feelings so I'm thinking maybe if I turn Eren against him in someway, he'll realize. Plus, it'll be a way to get Eren and Levi to trust each other more.

Anyway my mini cakes, thanks for the support, kudos to you guys~ I'll do something special soon, promises!

Review Response:

Airi 65: I'll continue this till the end, nothing to worry about. Thanks~

Hibary-Hiwatari: Lol, it's too soon for smut... sadly, but we'll get there eventually. I know, I didn't put the maid uniform to good use, but I'll use it to an advantage later.

Mauigirl201: Next chap. is here! Thank you for reviewing!

LovingLifeandCosplay: Thank you~

Lovely-Bunny: Sick and insane :( It won't mess with his modeling job too bad though

ella343e: Agreeing with you on this one! If he was a girl, I would've thought the same thing. Save that perverted smile till later on, my dear. You're gonna need it. :)

Mermaidhorse: How was your school week? I was just trolled and got work shoved in my face. T-T Thanks for the review.

CeruleanCat: I just love this comment, I could just imagine Eren wiggling his eyebrows and saying that.


	10. Chapter Nine: Lemon Meringue Pie

"Levi, you can't put off another meeting. Get out of bed and let's go." Levi groaned, rolling over in his bed before sitting up with a sour look.

"Who the hell says I can't? I'm not going anywhere." Erwin sighed, sitting down at Levi's feet. "You have a career to attend to. You canceled four meetings ever since Eren got admitted into the hospital. You can't sabotage your career for-"

"I fucking get it. And I'm not sabotaging shit, dickbag. How the hell do you know this is because of the brat?"

"You haven't moved an inch ever since you visited him. That was two days ago."

"Big fucking whoop. I can do whatever the fuck I want and if I'm not moving, get the fuck out and leave me alone. I'm not forcing you to watch me, I'm twenty-two, I don't need a grown man watching over me like I'm some child."

"...You sound like Eren."

"Fuck you. Tell Garrison kiss my ass because I'm not going."

"And why is that?"

"Because."

"Because what?"

"People keep pestering me. Where's Eren? Why isn't Eren with you? I want Eren - blah blah blah, shut the fuck up and continue with your lives. It's none of their business where he is."

Erwin sighed as Levi sat up, stretching his arms and legs with an audible snap. "Well pestering or not you signed a contract and you can't break it unless you want to pay a fine," Levi rolled his eyes.

"I'm fucking done with this bullshit. Do me a favor and tell Garrison until I say I want a meeting, leave me the hell alone. Unless they want me to go out my way and personally burn down their company building, I'd suggest they stay the fuck out my way,"

Erwin smirked, standing on his feet with his phone in hands. "When do you plan on showing up?"

Levi glanced over at the man and slid his arms behind his head. "When the brat is out the hospital."

~•~

Levi's stomach growled angrily as he pulled into the super market parking lot. If there was something Levi hated more it was heading out to the grocery store and child his peace while many people snapped photos and squealed over him pick up a can of vegetables or use a coupon.

He took his keys out of the ignition and sighed heavily. "You go,"

Erwin glanced at the man. "Don't I have to make a call. You've canceled a lot of things Levi~"

"I don't give a fu-"

"Hello this is Erwin Smith, head of the Recon Talent Agency~" He said with a teasing smile. Levi opened the door and cursed his employer before storming out his vehicle. He tugged at his jacket as the wind tussles his hair.

He pulled out dark shades from his pocket and put them on quick.

When he got inside the store, he grabbed a cart and walked throughout the store continuously looking at the list Erwin gave him.

Meat - fish, pork, chicken and beef

Rice

Half pound of cheese from the deli - thin sliced

Oil

Pasta

Vegetables

Donuts

Popsicles

Fruits

Growth Fertilizer ;)

Oreos

...

Levi growled, crumpling up the bullshit list and throwing it on the floor. "Real fucking funny..." he muttered. He walked through the store picking up what he needed before making his way around towards the deli. As he neared the assortments of meats and cheeses, how caught notice of a familiar face and an unforgettable voice.

"Captin' Levi!" A short body ran towards him, quickly attaching himself to his legs.

"Colin?" He muttered, he kneeled down and removed his sunglasses. "What are you doing here?" he asked, prying the child from his leg but the kid wrapped his arms around his neck.

"Get off me,"

"I can't! Don't you remember me?!" The kid smiled widely, unwrapping himself from the man.

"I wish I didn't..."

"I'm here with mommy and my brothers and sisters and I went to the bathroom to make a spell!"

Levi made a sour face. He pushed the kid away from him. "Now you can really stay away from me. Even now you're still a filthy kid."

"What does filthy mean?"

"Look kid, I don't have time for this."

"Can I come with you?"

"No,"

"Please?"

"No!"

"I bet mommy and the other's wanna see you!" The man remained silent, staring at the kid with a blank look. He sighed heavily and said, "Fine. Just make this quick, I have someone I have to see."

"Can I hold your hand?"

"No."

"What if there's an emergency?" Levi picked the young boy up, placing him in the cart and pushing him through the store. Levi noticed he was wearing the same coat he wore on Halloween.

"What emergency?"

"What if there so a fire?"

"...Then we'll burn?"

"No, I can't burn! Maybe you can but not me! I'm a wizard and guess what!"

"No."

"I can poof out of here and you'll burn Mr! How do you like that?!"

"You're a weird kid, you know that? Where's Maya and your siblings?"

"Over there," Levi turned on his heels and looked down an aisle to see the woman with the kids running around and picking stuff up. Levi pushed the cart towards the woman who paid no attention to him; instead she was trying her best to get the kids to settle down.

"Ms...Maya..." The man muttered, he lifted Colin from the cart and out him down.

The woman couldn't turn around before the children all shouted "Levi!" and ran up to him, almost making him fall over from all the sudden added weight. Maya smiled and walked over to him, wrapping her arms around him and kissing his forehead before saying, "It's a surprise seeing you here!"

Levi stumbles backwards. "Well, I have to eat too. And this is the closest shopping center to my house so..."

The woman laughed. "Alright kids, let the poor guy go I'm sure he doesn't like handling all of you at once."

"Levi, how's Rosy?"

"Rosy?"

"Her name's Rocket!"

"Noooo, Rocket's not pretty enough. It's not a girl name, Ethan!"

Levi blinked utterly confused by their continued rants over a girl name.

"Are you sure Rocket is a girl?" The boy called Ethan asked, pulling at the girl's pigtails.

"Stop it!" She cried, yanking her head from Ethan. "And Levi said she's a girl, so he name is Rosy?"

"What are you guys talking about?" Levi finally asked. The kids silenced and turned to the older male. Soon, a girl with unevenly cut hair stepped forward.

"Our puppy! You got us a puppy! You and that other...girl? Boy?'' Levi felt like laughing but choked it back and kept his blank façade.

He forgot all about him and Eren's shenanigans on Halloween and how he forced Eren to be his dog and enjoyed the children's company. To think he actually had fun. that night...

How smirked lightly. "Eren's definitely a girl, no question about that. And Brat is doing... fine..." he swallowed thickly and continued. "And she's right, Brat's a girl."

"Where's Eren?" Colin asked. Levi glanced down and said, "He's not... feeling too well."

"Does he have a cold?"

"Not... not exactly..." What the hell was Levi supposed to tell them? He highly doubted the kids would understand Eren's current predicament, consider the fact that the Harry Potter otherwise known as Colin- wannabe made a "spell" in the bathroom. But even if they did understand and sympathized, he didn't want them going home with Eren on their mind.

"Is he okay?"

"Where is he?"

"Did he die?" Levi's breath hitched in his throat. He wrinkled his nose as if he smelled something bitter and it was making his stomach turn. The kids all stared at him wanting an answer. And they wanted the right answer. "No. H-he's not... I'm actually planning on visiting him after I finished shopping."

"Oh well then we should get going. Sorry for bothering you." Maya said.

"I came to you, so you shouldn't be apologizing for anything."

Levi looked down to see frog girl tugging at his jacket. "Levi, can we see Eren?"

He shook his head with slight hesitation. "He's really sick a-and I don't want any of you guys catching something." Did his voice actually crack? He was holding back so many emotions. Was he... breaking?

"We won't catch anything, I promise!"

"You can't promise anything. You can't go. Stay with Maya and your siblings."

"They can come too!"

Levi groaned, running his hands through his hair in defeat. He was sick of saying no. Honestly, he was. But he couldn't tell them the truth. Why have children worrying about him? Everyone acquainted with the brat was worrying their asses off over him.

"Maya, can I talk to you for a second?"

The woman nodded, and followed Levi a few inches away from the kids. "About Eren, he's not in the best mind state right now and he's a lot more aggressive than his usual nerdy ass."

"You mean he might hurt the kids?"

"Possibly. But I was thinking, since they won't stop begging me I would take them over while he's asleep."

"I'm not too confident in that. Eren's a sweet boy but if he might hurt one of them-"

"I understand. But my sister has taught me something and I believe she's right. Eren does mean something to a lot of people and I haven't been the best to him. And I admit I'm afraid of what's going to happen in the future. And I know if there's one thing Eren wants to see or at least know is there, its the kids. When I dropped him home that night, he couldn't stop rambling about them and saying they're like a miniature version of me, and he loves them... and even if they weren't like me, he'd still love them. And after that, I felt something. But point is, Eren loves these kids and I think it'd be nice for them to visit him."

"If they're going, I'd like to come along."

"Of course. I wasn't going to forget you." Maya smiled and said, "Then we should finish shopping so we can go."

**~•~**

"Levi, I'm squished!"

"Colin, stop biting me!"

"I'm not biting you, Elisa! And you're a frog, you can't talk!"

"Ribbit! Yeah, I can. Ow! Leeeviiiii!" The man scowled as the back of his chair was kicked. It was a good thing he dropped Erwin and the groceries at his home or else they're complaining would be no end. Bad enough his seat was getting kicked and children were yelling at him then proceed to yell at each other to move over. But having Erwin in the car would be hell and the kids would be pressed up against windows from the tall could barely fit in Levi's car as it is.

He turned into the hospital lot and parked in the closet spot near the hospital entrance. Maya opened the door and helped the children out the car. When they were all out, Levi lead them inside the hospital and walked towards the front desk.

He fixed his glasses on his face and tugged his scarf closer to his lips. "I'm here to see Jaeger Eren." The woman's eyes crept around and took in each child. She then looked back at the man. "Are they all with you?"

"Yes. And also, it's around two so the brat- I mean Eren.. should be asleep by now."

The woman nodded gently. "He is. But I'd suggest you keep a close eye on him and if the kids are going in keep them at a distance. Your name?"

"Just Ackerman." The woman wrote his surname on the visitors tag and did the same for Maya. "Take the elevator to the fifth floor."

They did as told and when they reached the fifth floor, they were surprised and pleased with the silence. Levi lead them around back and to room 358; he then opened the door and said, "Stay right here for a moment,"

"Wait, I wanna go!" Colin cried, clinging himself onto Levi's leg. He rolled his eyes and picked him up.

"Me too!"

"No,"

Elisa caught hold of Levi's hand and smiled widely. He groaned and walked inside, shutting the door gently with his foot. The TV was on low volume and mixed in with the steady rhythm of the heart monitor.

The door creaked and in walked Maya and the others.

"Be quiet, alright?" Levi whispered. He set Colin down and instructed then to stay behind him as he walked to Eren's bedside.

He watched Eren's chest rise and fall softly as air came and left through his slightly parted lips. Strange. He was breathing out his mouth when he usually breathes through his nose...

Colin stood on his toes and looked at Eren then Levi. "I see why you like her, she's pretty!"

"Aha! She's like sleeping beauty!"

"Shhh!" Levi scolded. "Quiet."

A small silence lurked through the air before Elisa broke it. "Can I kiss her?"

"No."

"...Can I kiss her?" Colin asked.

"Absolutely not! Neither of you guys are doing anything intimate with her."

"Levi, what does intimate mean?"

"Levi, I think she's waking up." Levi looked to Eren and saw him shifting uncomfortably in his bed. "Get out," he told the two softly. The children ran out, some held Maya's hand as they left the room leaving the two boys together.

He watched Eren toss and turn and mumble small rants as if trying to escape his dream. Levi felt a small sense of pity for the boy. He looked absolutely devastated in his sleep. In his spew of mumbles, he constantly heard "Grisha," and "Please don't leave me," and the most common one, "I'm sorry."

Levi took a step closer, taking a seat next to Eren and placing his cold hands on top of Eren's. He wanted to say something to the frantic teen but his words got caught and jumbled in his throat. This was the moment. This was his only chance to finally straighten in things out with his mind and emotions concerning Eren.

He wanted to sort out these unwelcome and certinally unwanted emotions and it was about time he let his heart control his body rather than his mind.

He tried it once and vowed never to do it again.

But this time, it felt right and he felt like he'd get the reaction he wanted.

Levi moved closer and took a deep breath. He hands roamed over his chest and gave him a soft shake. "Wake up, Eren."

Eren's head lolled to the side and he gritted his teeth. "Wake up before you hurt yourself," he said gently. "Your monitor is gonna skyrocket if you don't wake up soon."

"Griisha..I'm so sorry..." He curled his hands. Levi felt a small smile grace his lips as he brushed Eren's hair from his eyes. He shook Eren a few times before the teen finally opened them, tears brimming his eyes. He gripped Levi's hand, digging his nails into the tender flesh.

"Why are you here?" Eren asked grimly. He shook his hand free of Levi's hold.

"I wanted to visit out of respect, brat."

"Well you're respect's been paid so get the hell out."

"I see you're not trying to mutilate me, I guess you're fine." Eren's hand clenched to fist and he swung his arm back to strike but instead, the script was flipped and Levi caught his slender wrist and pushed it down, doing the same to the other hand.

"Let me go!"

"Shut up, you shit," he muttered. He placed his body weight on Eren's to hold him in place from his continuous struggle. "Who's Grisha?"

"Fuck you! Go fuck yourself," Levi's gripped tightened out of anger and his cold eyes pierces Eren's rage infused ones. "I'll ask again, who's Grisha?"

Eren chewed his bottom lip angrily and he toward his head to the side, avoiding Levi's glare.

"Listen Eren, I wanna know who this fucker is because he's causing you some serious angst and it's pissing me off. I know you're not yourself and that drug's fucking with your mind but the Eren I know is in there. This aggressive, violent "alter ego" of yours isn't you. It isn't apart of you and it isn't who you are,"

He heard a small sniffle followed by a low growl. He whipped his head to face Levi. His eyes furrowed and his voice was laced with venom. "Why the hell do you care about me all of a sudden? What's with this "I want to make sure you're alright," and "I wanna care for you." bullshit? You don't fucking give a shit. If you did you wouldn't be such a fucking dick all the time."

"I know I don't have a degree in expressing affection but I do care for your well being."

Eren rolled his eyes. "Yeah right. You're just like dad, a fucking prick who has no idea how to appreciate what he has and instead treats it like garbage,"

Alright, that stung a little...

"...I don't know shit about your dad but I do know he's a low life douchebag who can't take care of responsibility. And let me tell you something, Jeager, I'm nothing like that fuckface you're forced to call a father. I may be a stoic dickhole but don't ever compare to me scum like that again."

"Why? Because you can't stand the truth?!"

"No, because you're fucking wrong. You wanna know the difference between you and your father?" Levi inhaled deeply, calming the anxious feeling in his stomach before smashing their lips together sloppily. The sudden theater made Eren squeak and curl his hands into balls, attempting to grip Levi's hand and pry him off with little success.

Levi was too caught up in the moment and his head spun like a broken record from the dizzy rush. Too many things swarmed his head at once as he stared into Eren's softening eyes. He was making a mistake. Levi knew this awful feeling too well.

Suddenly, Eren's mouth opened enough to bite Levi's bottom lip. The man retracted from the late teen, licking his lip and tasting the metallic taste of blood and... Eren...

"Y-you're fucking insane!" Eren cried. Levi scoffed, a small ghosting his lips as he tended to the small wound. "You're one to talk about insane,"

"You kissed me!" Eren used his arm to rub his lips to rid himself of Levi's taste. "Yeah, so? I like you, brat. Don't you get it?"

Eren crawled back against the wall. "Of course I don't get it! Why did you do that?!"

"Do you need me to spell it out for you? I. Like. You. That's what makes him and I different," he held Eren's hands and hauled him onto his lap, cautious of the medical tubes. "I like you. I want to help you instead of running away from you,"

"You're such a fucking liar!" Eren's voice cracked and Levi snuggled Eren close. He wasn't used to this affectionate bullshit but it felt kinda nice. Eren was warm through he reeked of hospital stretch.

The door opened and in walked a nurse who looked similar to Hanji. Same hair except worn back neatly, same bullshit glasses though she lacked height and had a thicker build. "Eren it's- Ah..Oh... I'm sorry for intruding."

"No, I was just leaving," He set Eren down, watching and trying to predicate if he'll try to hurt him again but instead Eren was calm highly flustered. The nurse watched as Levi cast a glance at him before walking out along side the woman. "I have to give Eren his meal. The head doctor of the floor would like to speak to you in private,"

"About what, exactly?"

The woman shrugged before turning on her heel. "I'm not sure but it's concerning your friend."

Friend? Who said Eren was his friend?

Levi nodded without a word. He walked towards the simple door, knocked, and walked inside. Levi noted it was the man who asked for Mikasa's information. Levi closed the door and said, "Someone said you wanted to speak to me... in private..."

The man nodded. "Take a seat,"

"I'd rather stand,"

"Alright. My name is Joshua Aquino, I head of this floor,"

Levi removed his name tag. "You can call me Levi. You don't need to know my last name for personal reasons."

"I...see... well, about Eren's health. He's fine. His fever has gone down, he's still a little pale but he hasn't been vomiting lately so that's a good thing. His mental health

is still unstable but he has improved. Eren hasn't been violent towards others and he's not making death threats towards visitors and employees. But he has an aggressive, sharp tongue. He still has hallucinations and talks in his sleep-"

"Why does he do that? It's like he dreams the same thing or the same people at least."

"Those may be repressed memories."

Levi's eyes narrowed questiongily."Repressed memories?"

Joshua reached into his desk and pulled out a manilla folder containing Eren's medical information. "You shouldn't look at this but here,"

Levi walked forward and took the envelope. He took a seat and read over the documents carefully.

Birth Certificate

Shiganshina Medical Center

**This is to certify the birth of Eren Jeager**

**Date of Birth: **3/30/1994

**Sex: **M

**Height: **16 inches

**Weight:** 7 lbs, 6 oz

**Parents of Child:** Carla and Grisha Jeager

**Registration Number: **33094-104

The next page was dated **April 15, 2001. A r**eport filed from Shiganshina Elementary school concerning bruising on Eren.

**May 6, 2001. **Another report from the school this time about a black eye and bruised face Eren came to school with.

**July 21, 2001. **Water filled in lungs after a near death experience at the beach. Eren's only response was "He loves me."

**February 19, 2002. **A report from his third grade teacher about a large black marking on his inner thigh.

**December 13, 2004. **Broke his arm in a fight against a sixth grader.

**January 6, 2006. **Admitted into hospital with Saint-fleur, Carina. Large purple bruises and deep wounds covered abdominal area. Possibly suicidal.

Levi looked up. "Who's Carina?"

Joshua shrugged. "His girlfriend, I guess. She seemed to have quite an influence on him."

Levi raised an amused brow. "Tell me, do you have a file on her?"

"I'm not a liberty to give you such information. I shouldn't have given you Eren's file since you're not his family-"

"I'm his boyfriend." Levi deadpanned.

"That doesn't mean you're family."

"I don't give a fuck," He shuffled the papers neatly and slid them back in Eren's folder. "What does this have to do with repressed memories?"

"He was abused as a child and decided to put it behind him and continue with his life. PCP can mess with your mental state and the drug must have triggered an old memory. The drug and the memories might be the reason why he was violent towards others, making him think what happened back then will happen now."

"But he's not trying to hurt anybody. It seems he's gained some self-control."

"You're right, he has. The drug is wearing off but it'll take a few more days for him to stabilize and take control of his psychological state. But we'll keep him an extra day to run a few more test to make sure he's safe to go home. But he'll need to be kept under intense watch by family and close friends."

Levi stood and sighed. "I'm heading back to Eren. Thanks for the details on him." The man walked to the door quickly and before he walked out Joshua's voice sounded.

"Have you found out who did this?"

"I... no. It'll take some time to figure this bullshit out so until the don't bother asking."

**~•~**

The ride to Shiganshina was somewhat relief to Levi. Though the kids were loud as hell, at least they were having fun instead of complaining about being squished in the back seat. He put the roof down so their hyperactive voices weren't as obnoxious as it would be in a closed car. They seemed to be enjoying it too.

He rested back in his seat, letting the wins blow through his hair and calm his anger.

He came to a light and his phone rang. It was Eren's number...? He had his phone with him? Levi was sure Eren would've smashed his phone to pieces if he saw the caller ID Levi. Or whatever Eren had him saved under in his contacts.

Prepared for an expected rant from the teen, he answered his phone. "Eren?"

"Haha, well not exactly,"

"Carla?" The model took his foot off the brake and eased on the gas.

"Mhm," the woman hummed. He heard sounds of dishes clanking and water running in the background. "How's Eren doing? I couldn't visit because the shop was busier than usual and I couldn't catch a break."

"He's doing better actually. He just needs a few more days before he's released," Levi turned into the orphanage and parked near the building. He said his good byes, gave his hugs and pulled off headed towards Sina.

"That's good to hear," Carla said. He could hear the sudden calmness in her voice. It sounded she was holding her breath prepared for better or worse. "Is he still upset about what happened?"

"..." That sounded off... what if she's the one who drugged Eren? but then again Carla went nowhere near the kitchen... when they were downstairs.

"What do you mean by that?"

"We got into a slight argument at dinner. Is he still mad about that?"

"...I can't say. I haven't asked Eren about it."

"...Alright..."

"Say, I have a question,"

"Go ahead."

"I have a friend who's studying in psychology. Currently, she's studying in drugs and how they affect the nervous system and such. Do you know anything on PCP?"

"I know it's a bad drug and it's highly addictive."

"Do you know where she could get some to test it out?"

"On herself?! Tell her don't do something as foolish as that!"

"No no, not on herself. But I'm just asking, so you know where she could buy some?"

There was a small silence on the phone and the sounds of water turned off. "You can get it from the Sina district but they're illegal. You'll have to know somebody really high up to your hands on that. Why doesn't she study something less dangerous?"

"Because you just sold yourself out."

"Excuse me?"

"Remember the dinner party? Did you go anywhere near the kitchen?"

"Yes. Mikasa called me in to help her with the sweet potato salad and wash the dishes."

"And that same day you and Eren got into a disagreement and not too soon later he ended up passing out upstairs."

"Are you suggesting I drugged my own son?!"

"There's a saying that goes: if the shoe fits, wear it."

"How dare you! Eren and I may have our ups and downs but I would never go to extremes lengths like that. It makes me sick to my stomach knowing the same person my son is forced to be with will think this!"

"And it makes me sick to my stomach knowing the likes of you would harm Eren like that."

"Boy if I could see your face..."

"You'd try to kill me off too, huh?'

A long dreaded silence loomed over from the other line. Levi turned into his house driveway and turned off his car waiting for Carla's next response.

"Erwin and Auruo were also in the kitchen at some point. They didn't necessarily help us but they were also in there while you were with Eren upstairs before dinner started."

"..."

"Also there is no way I'd be able to face Eren after I've done something as terrible as that."

"I-"

"Now, I'm heading upstairs to bed so I can see my son tomorrow, whether you like it or not."

"Good-" The phone hung up followed by a long tone. "Night..." he sighed, closing his phone and resting his head against the wheel.

Tomorrow was going to be a long day...

* * *

A/N: So many writers blocks -_- I became lazy writing this and I forced myself to type. I was going to post this yesterday but things happened and I finished it this morning and I'm posting it now.

I kinda hate how I wrote Levi for this chapter :(

Thanks my strawberries for all the positivity you're giving the story and I have to apologize for the story moving along so slow. The next chapter will focus around Levi and Petra and after that get ready for a photoshoot ;3

Review Response:

a: I understand that completely. It I made Levi that way because I wanted him to start out cold and hostile towards Eren and as the story progresses, he'll growing to love Eren. He's basically a tsundere and he's that way because of his relationship with Petra.

xKireyy: Haha, I loved this chapter too! But I love the Halloween one more ^_^

Mauigirl201: Please do that, I'll love you forever. And good luck on your fanfic!

Instagram: I somewhat rp and share an instagram account with my friend. If you like it's Http. Corporal Lol, I know... but I won't post pics of myself! But I'll follow you!

PurpleParadoxx91: I loved the abridged refremce you put in there. And they'll get to it. Sadly, it's plot first then smut. I wanted Levi and Mikasa siblings because they're like each other except gender bend ;)

TheSwordHolder99: Lol, you got it ;)

ella343e: Who do you think drugged Eren? And more about Eren's repressed memories will be explained in the next chapter.

Lovely-Bunny: I was thinking Carla but then... I though maybe it shouln't be her. Good guess, I mean really good guess.

PassingBye: Thaaank you

Nee Kuchiki TT3TT: Adorable right?! Just wait until the story drives along, Levi will just get cuter

Hibary-Hiwatari: I'm not goona lie, I need my derpy Eren back too.

CeruleanCat: I want him to go detective... but I'm afraid everyone will ban together and go against him for assuming they did it.

Mermaidhorse: Our teachers did the ice bucket challenge and our assistant prinable wore a long black formal in ninety degree weather -_- so I'm finally enjoying school more. Love is definitely in the air, Eren just needs to snap out of it and return to his nerdy self.


	11. Chapter Ten: Shortcake :: MiniChapter

"I dislike all of you."

"Aha!" Hanji beamed. She took Eren's hand and squeezed it, smiling brightly in his face. "We're making progress!"

Levi looked at the woman irritated. "What the hell are you talking about now?"

Hanji's head whipped around quickly. "He said he dislikes us! He didn't say he hates us! We're getting somewhere~"

"She's right," Mikasa agreed. She sat at Eren's feet and looked at him resting her hand gently on his. "How are you feeling?"

"A little better. Why?"

"I'm just making sure. As long as you're alright..." Levi walked and sat next to Mikasa looking at Eren then at her. Mikasa sighed heavily, gripping Eren's hand. "It's alright. Don't worry about it. I'm not mad at you so just drop it."

A soft knock followed by a soft cheery voice. "Hey Eren," Everybody looked over to see Petra walk in with Auruo at her side. She walked next to Eren and pulled up a chair. She smiled brightly and said, "I'm sorry I haven't visited you lately, I had a lot of work at the agency."

Eren shrugged turning back to the television program. "I hear about what happened and it's good that you're doing much better!"

"..."

Petra's smile died and a voice sounded."Try not to bother him right now. He'll talk when he wants to."

Petra turned to Levi and nodded. "I brought him a gift," She held up a small teddy bear with a white card in its hand and get well balloons tied to it's fuzzy arms. On the card it read Eren in cursive red letters. "I know it's not a lot but I stopped by the store and decided to get this. Isn't it cute?"

"Oh! Speaking of gifts," Hanji interrupted. She reach down and held up a large basket containing fruits, chocolates and a small card taped to the front. "This is from Erwin and Garrison. The card and... other things are in there too! Those items are from me!"

"Other things?" Levi asked questioningly, staring at the basket.

"You'll see when he opens it! It's from the heart by the way so don't worry!" The door opened and in walked Carla who was removing her jacket and shaking her legs to warm herself.

"Outside is getting chilly," she closed the door gently and growled when she saw Levi. She didn't have to say a word for Levi to know she really hates him now and that he ruined his chance of Carla accepting him.

Oh well. Fuck it.

She walked next to Eren and pressed a kiss to his forehead as Eren stared forward without a word. She sighed heavily and took a seat. "You're still mad at me, aren't you?"

Eren nodded gently, finally resting his head against Carla's chest. She smiled and hugged him. "I'm sorry, baby. Maybe I took it too far that night-"

"You let me drown." Eren deadpanned darkly. His voice was uncharacteristic and monotone. Even Levi was somewhat surprised by his sudden change in vocal tone.

Carla looked down confused. "What?"

"You let me drown, mother. Don't you remember?"

A throat clear followed by Levi's voice as he stood. "Excuse me, may I borrow you for a moment?"

"Aren't you afraid I might poison you?" She asked bitterly. She followed Levi out the awkward tension room and into the hallway.

Before Carla could open her mouth, Levi cut her off.

"About Eren, when I visited him yesterday a staff member pulled me aside and gave me his medical records. I know it's none of my business but I know when he was younger he almost drowned."

Carla sighed and walked to the window overlooking the parking lot and a few taller buildings off in a distance. "We never talked about it and I was nowhere around when he floated off to the ocean. If I was there, none of this would've happened."

"You weren't around?"

Carla shook her head. "Nope. I left him with his father and I fell terrible about it."

"...He's has repressed memories and they're finally coming to light. I'm not sure what his dreams are about but they mostly contain the name Grisha."

"That's his father and I guess I can say ex husband."

Levi stayed silent for a moment. "So you didn't let him drown? If you were there he never would've drifted off to sea?" Carla nodded and sat on the windowsill. "That's right. I'm not sure what happened out there, all I remember is when I swam out to help, Eren was already unconscious and since then I never liked to let him out my sight."

"Why was he such a troublemaker in school?"

Carla rubbed her temples. "I'm not sure. I guess it was just a phase or a bitter emotion. He always held back his feelings at home and kids bothered him at school. He never had self restraint and I guess his anger always got the best of him. I always knew it was because of the way Grisha treated him and I could never do anything about it. Grisha would beat me and Eren," She looked to Levi. "Has he already told you this?"

The man shrugged. "In a way, he's told me some things about his childhood. But I'm actually surprised to hear more about it. He doesn't like to talk about it, he would much rather move on and carry on with his life."

"...He's nineteen and I guess he's right,"

"About what?"

"He needs to live. I shouldn't keep babying him and let him become more independent in himself. He needs to let go of his past, I don't want it to keep hanging over his head his entire life. I'd rather him grow from the experience and never let it happen again instead of letting it stop him from having a fulfilling life. I want him to see things, go to different places and explore the world. I can't keep him coped up in a café all day."

Levi nodded and said, "I wouldn't mind taking him places. There's a lot in the world he should see before he turns thirty. But his life's just starting, I wouldn't expect him to want to leave home right now. Plus he'll worry about you. He told me when you're stable and the shop's in good condition, he'll consider traveling. But right now, he needs to mature a little."

"He's talked about leaving?"

The man shook his head. "Not exactly. He just wants to see different places. Of course he'll want to return home."

"Levi," They turned to see Mikasa standing in the doorway. "Eren's asleep now."

An elongated sigh. "I should head back to the shop, shouldn't I?"

"Do you need any help?" Mikasa asked.

"No, I don't think you-"

"I insist. it's probably really busy without Eren's help."

"Marco's helping out-"

"I want to take Eren's place until he gets better," Mikasa said. She wrapped her scarf around her and walked towards the elevator.

"Can't you stop her?" Carla asked with a small smile. "She's a woman. Who am I to stop her?"

"Then I shouldn't keep her waiting. Please tell me if anything else happens." She began to walk towards Mikasa.

"Fine by me,"

"I'm still mad at you!"

"Fine by me." Levi repeated. He walked back inside the room. Hanji and Erwin were packing up and saying their goodbyes. "Are you two gonna fuck or something? Where the hell are you going?"

"If by "fuck" you mean cancel another meeting, yes," Erwin said calmly. "And you're a twenty-two year old man with the mouth of a high schooler."

"I graduated four years ago, shut the fuck up."

Erwin laughed and walked past Levi with Hanji in pursuit. He got a bad feeling watching Hanji try to retain her laugher with that huge ass smug grin on her face.

"I'll see you later, Levi." Erwin called.

"Goodbye, eyebrows." Levi closed the door and scowled immediately.

...

...

...

"What the fuck are you staring at? Do I have something on my face that interests you?!" Levi asked harshly. Auruo raised a brow and rolled his eyes.

"You're still the same old repugnant, spiteful man, aren't you?"

Levi narrowed his eyes threateningly. "Yeah, so? Unless you want your balls kicked in you'll do something about it,"

"Levi!" Petra cried. Out of instinct her hand gripped Auruo's preventing him from getting up and causing a ruckus. "Auruo, sit down and stop it."

The man gruffed, touching the woman's hand lovingly. "His mouth and attitude is the same reason you didn't want to marry him."

"That's not tr-"

"Don't even start. You know it's the truth, there's no point denying this."

Petra sighed turning her attention to the shorter male who leaned against the wall with his arms crossed, his eyes digging their way into her soul. "Levi I... Auruo, can you leave? Just for a few minuets so I can talk to Levi in private?"

"No. Like hell I'm leaving him with-" She held his hand and looked into his eyes. "Trust me. Nothing will happen and knowing Levi he wouldn't try anything. Just please, I need to talk to him."

"..." The man stood and exited the room leaving Petra and her ex fiancée in the room.

"...I'm sorry for Auruo. I know there's still some tough tension between you two."

Levi shrugged, closing his eyes and throwing his head back. "Don't fret. I don't take his bullshit to heart anyway. It goes through one ear and out the other just to go into the shitter."

Petra laughed, making Levi smile a little. "I don't like seeing you two fight. It's getting old and it hasn't changed. It's been two years. Call it truce and put it behind you guys."

"It's not that simple, Petra," Levi looked her dead in the eye making a shiver run down her spine. "Imagine how I felt after you left me that night. Imagine how I felt sitting in that restaurant by myself and having to cope with the fact somebody I loved didn't feel the same way,"

"I know and I'm sorry. I didn't feel like it was the right thing to do. I-"

"Don't think about yourself for a moment, put yourself in my shoes. I wanted to marry you, I wanted a life with you, I wanted a family with you because I thought that you and I had a strong connection that nothing could break. But instead I got a I don't think you're the right choice for me-"

"I never said that-"

"But you sure did do it. Instead of trying to fix things you accepted a ring from another man."

"We are not compatible, Levi! Open your eyes!" Petra exclaimed, she got to her feet and paced to him. "This would be us everyday. You're not amiable, you're not sympathetic, you just never paid enough attention to right things. You were so caught up with work you just forgot about me."

"And who said I didn't at least think about you? You know I called, and if I couldn't I would always make it up to you,"

"I'm not debating this. This topic isn't up for discussion right now."

Levi nodded, slowly pushing past Petra and sitting next to the sleeping Eren. "You're right. I'm not apt to argue with you or Auruo." He took off his shoes and adjusted himself comfortably next to Eren.

"I must ask, is this really just a big hoax for publicity, or do you really like him?"

"...It's both now I guess. I started letting my emotions take some control rather than my brain on decisions where the brat's concerned."

"You can't call him brat, you know,"

"Why not? He's my brat."

Petra smiled and said, "Eren's a really sweet boy. The girls would run you over just to look at him."

"..."

"Point is," Petra started. "Try not to drive him away; accept him."

"I've driven him away plenty of times but he seems to become more attached. I've done some pretty bad shit to him though he always seems to come back," Levi sighed. "I can't wait for this damn drug to wear off, I want my brat back."

"I just want you to show him love and compassion and he'll give it back. There's no need to dress him up and use him as a servant,"

"I know we said we're not debating this but what the hell do you know about love and compassion except for the fact you can give it to Auruo when he wants it?"

Petra sighed, hauling her purse over her shoulder. "We just weren't compatible. I loved you too, don't get me wrong. But we weren't made for each other." With that she walked out and Auruo's obnoxiously loud voice sounded as they walked away. Of course he was ranting about Levi. He continuously asked "Did he touch you?"

"Did he hurt you?"

"I'll go in there and beat his ass!"

Levi rolled his eyes and caught notice of the basket Erwin and Garrison left for Eren. Then he remembered the special "gifts" Hanji left that were "from the heart."

...Why did his curiosity have to get the best of him?

He stood and walked over to the basket, lifting it and examine the contents. Nothing looked out of place except for that bottle of lube and bright pink vibrator.

...

He then looked at the small white card taped at the front. He picked it up and anger filled his body and it took all his strength not to run out the room, track down Hanji, choke her to death and leave her shitty corpse in a river.

Slowly, his eyes skimmed over the card.

_Physician: Dr. Hanji Zoe_

_Condition: Ur in love_

_Prescription: Get laid__  
_

_*But you probably can't because your penis is probably as big as your height! But I don't think Eren will mind ;)*_

_~Love, Hanji_

He picked up his phone and texted Hanji, his fingers pressing hardly against the screen.

**Levi: **You motherfucking shitbag, what the fuck is this bullshit you left Eren?

**Hanji: **...

**Hanji: **You'll thank me later

**Levi:** The only thing I'll be thanking you for is being quiet while I zip your ass up in a bodybag.

**Hanji:** You can't hurt me, not even if you tried.

**Levi:** Don't be surprised when you wake up in the depths of hell tomorrow. I'll be sure to send your ass first class, shitstain.

**Hanji:** ...What?

**Levi: **Have a safe trip, bitch.

* * *

A/N: Just a short minichapter~ I typed this up quick and decided to post it just because I want to hurry to the next chapter and because I'm being flooded by school work -_- Till next time~

Edit: I'll answer reviews in the next chapter


	12. Chapter Eleven: Blueberry Scones

"Hanji, shut the fuck up!"

Ahh. Such a serene way to start the day. Well... Not exactly. This morning was much more "peaceful" for than the current situation at hand.

Levi's wake up call was a painful slap to his face with lubricant by none other than the Recon's Agency's very own talent scout. Then he was held back by his boss because Erwin didn't need one of his most successful client behind bars for assault against a woman. Not to mention the "small" kitchen fire because said talent agent left eggs, bacon and sausage on the stove on high and completely forgot about it. Another broken vace and a pissed off cat.

And to make the day even better, stuck in your car forced to listen to shitty music.

Erwin didn't seem to mind with those ear buds buried deeply in his ear to cancel out all other sounds except for what he was listening to. Lucky, lucky bastard. The blonde sat in the back seat scrolling through important dates and conferences while Levi had to sit up front and act as a shofar to them.

Finally, Levi growled.

"I fucking swear. Turn this shit down or get the fuck out."

Hanji raised a brow and turned the knob backwards. The model signed in relief as the radio was at a low volume. "Are you still mad?"

"What the fuck do you think?"

"I don't see why it was such a big deal."

Levi's cold eyes glanced over the talent scout. "You almost burned my house down you shit. With us in it."

"Yeah so?"

"I'm in my early twenties and I still have shit to live for. I don't feel like getting reincarnated. Especially if it was your fault. That's a shitty way to die."

"I saw something interesting, it was nothing bad!"

Levi gripped the wheel and chewed his bottom lip. "How the hell does a twenty six year old woman get distracted by the wiggles? Think about that. We could've burned because of grown men dressed up in different colors who sing and dance and shit."

"Stuff happens..." Hanji muttered.

Levi scoffed. "You should be ashamed of yourself." Levi made a left and eased off the gas a little, taking a quick glance in the rear view mirror.

"Can we get Taco Bell?" Hanji asked out of the blue.

"I don't give a fuck. You deserve to starve for that bullshit you pulled this morning."

Hanji groaned. She smiled wide and cooed. "Oh come on, don't be that way! Pull that thong out your ass~"

Hanji pulled at Levi's cheek and the man smacked it away as if it were a fly. "Don't be disgusting. Walk your ass across the street and get food on your own time, I want to visit Mikasa and Eren."

It's been two days since Eren's discharge and contact with him was kept at a minimum. Small texts exchanged consisting of vulgar jokes, witty remarks and bitter comments. But that was all Levi needed to keep him satisfied. And it pleased him to know that the brat didn't really seem to give a fuck what Levi was talking about and he replied with something equally as bad as a retort. And that's how Levi knew his brat was alright and back to his usual nerdy self.

"Ohhhhh. I see," Hanji started. "You wanna try to get in Eren's pant- whoa!" Levi slammed on the breaks and looked at Hanji with venom in his eyes.

"Shut the fuck. Up!"

* * *

Eren sat at the counter, half listening to Marco ramble about school, Jean, and Armin occasionally throwing in Annie, Reiner, and Bertholt. The teen sipped quietly on orange juice.

Mikasa wiped down the counter and glanced at Eren intently as she did so.

"But I guess Annie got annoyed with Jean's jokes and left so Reiner and Bertholt decided to follow to make sure she's-"

"Who's Annie, Jean, Bertholt and Reiner?" Mikasa interrupted, setting the dishrag in the sink.

"A few friends," Eren answered quickly. "Except horse face."

"Who's horse face? Is he mean to you?"

This time Marco responded. "Jean. A-and he's not mean. Just a little... Cocky?"

Eren noticed Marco's flushed cheeks. Marco watched Mikasa through the corner of his eyes and the freckled boy shifted uncomfortably. Seeing this, Eren raised a brow for a second before his eyes shifted towards the door. Honestly, he expect his mom to come sauntering through the door. But unless his mother was five foot nothing, was a man or somehow changed into one, and looked exactly like Levi... Then it was Levi.

The barista could barely get half a word out before Mikasa spoke. "What are you doing here?"

Levi walked up to his sister and leaned over the counter, placing a kiss on her cheek. "I came to see you and Eren."

"Mi-mi-mikasa?" Marco stuttered. He swallowed thickly and tried to keep his eyes off Levi but he was failing miserably.

"He's my brother,"

"Oh...oh... C-can I get you anything?" Marco spit out quickly. He still keep his focused off Levi since he found the shorter male rather intimidating?

Levi nodded, sliding into a seat next to Erwin. "Yeah, a small coffee, two raspberry swirl pound cakes and you can keep your eyes off my sister, thanks."

"Y-y-y-y-yes sir,"

"Oi, don't call me sir you freckled shit."

"Levi!" Eren and Mikasa shouted in unison. "There's no need to say that." Mikasa said.

"And I told you stop bashing Marco like that. You're such an old bitter bat, you know that?" Eren asked.

Levi rolled his eyes and looked at the cup that was placed in front of him and the plate of cakes with bright red swirls on it. "Anything else?"

"A strawberry ice tea, six sugar cookies, five blueberry scones and ohh! A chicken BLT sandwich with... Mozzarella cheese! Oh and-"

"That'll be all thank you," Erwin cut in, he gave a small smile and watched Marco walk behind into the kitchen. "I wasn't done ordering!"

"This is a café, Hanji. Not a fast food restaurant. We are guest," Erwin turned from Hanji.

"How are you feeling Eren?" Levi asked.

"I feel better. And why the hell do you care? I'm old enough to care for my health, I don't need to be spoon fed."

"Shut the hell up you spoiled little shit. You're lucky I care for your ass."

"You're right, that is all you care about. My ass! Not me. Just my ass."

"That's partially correct. I do care about you. If I didn't I wouldn't have wasted my time next to you in the hospital." Levi retorted.

Eren scoffed and crossed his arms. "I didn't know by "care" you actually mean texts containing profanity mostly about-"

"Don't go there. And a good portion of the messages were legit."

"Whatever you old perv. I know you have to get it off but I'm afraid you'll croak before you get the chance to."

Erwin set his hand on Levi's shoulder before he could say another thing and continue to add gasoline to the fire. "I believe there's business we need to get down to."

"Haha, yeah. And that business he'll be getting down to is lotion and tissues alone in his room!"

The model stood quickly but before he could march to Eren, Mikasa grabbed his arm and pulled him back. She shot a threatening look at Eren and he got the message. "Eren, be quiet and quit trying to provoke him. And Levi, calm yourself before you do something you might regret."

"I never regret anything," Levi deadpanned.

"Well knowing you, whatever you were about to do you will regret. So sit down, hush up and quit acting like children."

Erwin smirked and raised a brow, nodding his head approvingly of Mikasa's control. "Thank you, Mikasa. Now, back to work. Garrison has scheduled a meeting tomorrow at one fifteen."

"The brat just got released Eyebrows, and already they're trying to bombard us with bullshit."

"You're not one who usually complains," Erwin started. "You're behind on your work. You've been on hiatus for the past few weeks and you're not holding up your end of the contract."

"Tell them fuck off,"

"I hope you won't mind say that when you're unemployed."

The model threw his hands up in defeat and rested his back against the counter. "Talk away."

Erwin shot a slightly irritated look at his employee and said, "First thing's first, Rico emailed me a few important upcoming dates. But before I get into details about that, Celeb Feast is coming and Pixis would like you to-"

"No."

"You don't know what I'm going to say."

"I'm not going." Levi deadpanned.

"You haven't been there since you started modeling."

"Yeah, so? Am I supposed to feel bad or something?"

"Remember. It's up to Pixis, Eren and I."

"Hold the fucking boat. Since when the fuck did the brat start making my decisions?"

"Since you started the Eren and Levi relationship scam." Levi's shoulders relaxed as he signed annoyed. "If Eren agrees to do Celeb Feast, it'd look strange if you're not with him especially if he performs."

Eren's ears perked up hearing the word perform. "What is Celeb Feast?" Eren asked cautiously.

"The most provocative, disgusting entertainment system created for people who have nothing better to do with their lives so they sit down with their children and families just to watch celebrities act like skanks and terrible role models on TV for money and publicity."

Erwin laughed. "Half of that is true. Celeb Feast is an all celebrity event. The top twenty trending celebrities attend the event and perform. It's somewhat like a hangout for celebrities if you think about it?"

"It an event celebs do to sell their shit. The bigger a whore you are, the more money you get roll in and the more fame you get."

"It's raunchy of course but what do you expect?" The blonde man asked.

"A little class from those-"

"Anyways," Erwin snapped sternly. "It's a three-day event filled with performing, music, entertainment etcetera, etcetera."

"Why is it three days?"

"Because those sluts didn't think it was fair they only had one day to prance on stage and the red carpet half-naked. So they changed it to three."

"Levi, shut up. You know you thought at least one of them was hot." Hanji laughed.

"Hanji, fuck you." He mimicked. Levi looked back at Eren and said, "The first day which is December 20th is for autograph signings, photographs and shit like that. The next day is promos. And the last day which is December 22nd is the actual event and a day uses to an advantage for celebrities to whore it up."

"I see..."

"We're getting off topic," Erwin chimed as he scrolled through his phone. "You'll have to decide by tomorrow because once we get to Garrison and we get past the introductions, we're getting straight to work."

"Are Levi and I still in the top twenty trend?" Erwin shook his head and handed Eren his phone. He read through the stats carefully.

_47\. ErinandLeviAckerman_

_64\. Levi Ackerman_

_82\. Erin Jeager_

Wow... They're "couple" name was actually doing better than themselves...

"We've only been gone for a couple of weeks."

"A couple of weeks too long," Erwin took his phone back and scrolled to the top. "You can be on hiatus for so long until people get uninterested. The current top twenty spots are taken and currently in the lead to perform at Celeb Feast."

"Did Levi perform at Celeb Feast?"

Erwin nodded. "He did a routine-"

"Look dickbag, the brat doesn't need to know shit!"

Eren raised a brow and smirked. "What? Did you break a hip on stage?"

"No, you cheeky shit. I did one little stupid dance routine to a song and I never wanted to go back since I fucking hated it."

"It wasn't bad. He did really well." Mikasa comment. "They wanted Levi and I to do a duet but I declined since I didn't want people getting the wrong idea."

"What spot were you?"

"I got the fourth spot on the most trending."

"Why did you hate it?"

"Because I did. Don't question me, brat."

"Can I see the routine?"

"No."

"Why not?"

"Because I said so."

Eren stood up, clearly agitated by Levi's bitter behavior. "I'm heading to the bathroom."

**~•~**

Eren stated at the empty search engine as he sat in front of his computer trying to think of the right thing to type in. He felt strange. He was sitting in front of his computer preparing himself mentally for what might come up if he typed in Levi Ackerman in the search bar.

He actually used the bathroom lie to escape to his bedroom and look up his fake boyfriend just to watch the dance he did at the 2008 Celeb Feast as a "performance"

His fingers danced over the keyboard and all he had to type was Lev and already google was finishing his sentences. He clicked the search option and many results cane up consisting of different articles, new stories, and articles all focused on one topic.

He clicked the first result which was Wikipedia. In the top right corner, a picture dating back to July 2013 was presented. It was a simple monochrome photo. Levi stood with a soft smirk as he bit his bottom lip. His hair was disheveled and his forehead and built body glistened with sweat. For someone of his height... God damn he had a nice body and it made Eren's face grow hot knowing that was underneath Levi's clothes. He was slender but he still had a good amount of upper body strength...a lot more than Eren, that was for sure.

_Dear God what am I doing with my life? _Eren asked himself as he stared at the photo.

His right hand ran along his abs, resting against his belt that held up his jeans while his other arm rested against the back of his head.

No. This level of sexiness should not be allowed. Especially if it someone like Levi...

He looked at the small caption at the bottom reading_ July 10, 2013; Ackerman Levi front cover shot for Allure Magazine Issue 06_

Eren's eyes looked below to find basic information about Levi.

Rivaille Levi Ackerman (born 25 December, 1991), better known by his stage name Levi Ackerman or simply Levi, is a French-American model from Saint Cloud, France. He left for the United States at the age of 17 with his sister Mikasa and current employer and head of the Recon Corporation, Erwin Smith.

He scrolled through the page looking for something to catch his eye. From the article, he learned that Levi's real name is Rivaille? Or maybe it's just a mistake? He was born in Saint Cloud. And holy shit he was born on Christmas?! Why the hell does someone as old and mean as Levi get to be a Christmas baby? His eyes nearly popped out of their socket when he read Levi was bisexual.

In a recent interview with J&amp;J, Levi has stated he is bisexual. _At first, I believed that I was only interested in women. I did what any man would do. Find a girl, fall in love, settle down and start a new chapter in my life. But when I proposed, I got reality slammed into my face and I decided I need to fix my priorities before I try to involve anybody else. That is until I met someone. At first I thought it'd be a one time thing but it turned into much more than that. He's something special and he sure knows how to fuck with my emotions and he truly pisses me off._

A report asked why is he bisexual? Is it a choice and is it all just for attention in which he replied with, _Why the hell would I lie about my sexuality just for attention?_

Eren had to take a break for the second. That one statement was hypocritical and a complete bullshit lie. But as Eren read on, he felt like Levi was being honest and not talking through his ass.

_To me, I don't give a fuck who you are. As long as you meet my standards which are pretty damn high and you interest me, I will befriend you. And if you interest me enough, I will want to date you and start a proper relationship. You can be a man or a woman, as long as you and I get along and I see you fit. I will like you._

He then read a paragraph titled Controversy and his curiosity took control of his body and his nose was pressed against the computer screen as he read the page word for word.

A random reporter came up to Levi on his way to New York City for an interview with Premiss Magazine before he was able to get on his flight and rudely commented, _"You're photos are like an STD! You're like an infection that nobody can get rid of! You're on every single magazine when you're nothing but a douchebag pretty boy who uses his good looks to get ahead in life. You have a shitty attitude and terrible outlook on life."_

In which someone held him back from getting into the interviewer's face and he replied with, "_Everybody is entitled to their own opinion and I respect that. Even though your fucking wrong. See, now that's my opinion and since you said what you had to say now I'll say what I have to say. I didn't choose to be a model. A matter of fact this wasn't a career choice, when I was sixteen a good five years from now I still expected to be running the streets with my family consisting of close friends scrounging around for food and shelter. I'll admit I do have a terrible outlook on life and terrible attitude and personality towards others, but I would think you would too if you didn't trust anybody except for a few close ties and if all you known to do your whole life is steal and kill. So you either like me or you don't and to be honest, I don't give a fucking fuck if you don't."_

He decided to bookmark the page and returned back to the Google page and before was going to exit out, he noticed the Image tab.

No, Eren. Control yourself. This was enough stalking for one day. I feel like a complete creep for reading halfway though the man's BIO. But why stop what you've already started? Plus there was no turning back now since the page was flooding half-naked images of the man.

How old was he again? 22?

There should be no reason he has over a billion photos in the span of 5 to 6 years when the most photos Eren has taken in a lifetime added up to about thirty. Including school pictures. Not to mention half his photos are softcore porn.

Lip biting, lidded eyes, erotic stares, erotic poses, ice cubes, monochrome, shirtless photos, poles- POLES?!

This was just too much to comprehend. He knew Levi was a model and all but these were like porn advertisements. Except pornography is raunchy in Levi's case. He was just too... Different and elegant than to be compared to something as tasteless as stripping down and fapping on camera for human enjoyment.

Fuck it. There was no denying it anymore. Eren was actually turned on by Levi.

He could feel the bulge in his pants thicken and he continued to scroll. He lowered his free hand to the hem of his pants and unbuttoned his jeans. This felt messed up. He was going to have to model with him tomorrow and go through the entire week with this man. And he was sitting upstairs in his room doing the unthinkable while the man sat downstairs in the café trying to organize their next session together.

He let out a pleasurable moan as his hand slid up and down his length. He through his head back as he let the moan escape his throat and all the tension was lifting from his body. His hips bucked forward shyly as he opened his eyes halfway to look at each photo.

"Ahh~ L-leeevii~"

"You called?"

Eren's heart sank and his eyes flew open with terror and fear. Either he was hallucinating or the real thing was watching him. Oh he prayed it was all just a big hoax and he was just imagining his voice just to get himself off. But it all felt too real. His presence. Eren knew Levi was standing there.

"I see your busy."

"Can't you knock?!"

"The door was half-open so I decided to come in. But I see you decided to " get down to business" too with that bottle of lotion and tissues, huh?" Levi asked with an amused tone. Eren kept his face pressed against the desk to hide his burning face. The wood desk was actually what he needed against his heated skin. "I don't have lotion or tissues, you bat."

"So brat... Care to explain yourself?"

Eren clicked off the tab and mumbled, "I'm just..."

"A horny teenager with raging hormones," Levi finished. He walked over and took a seat comfortably on Eren's bed. Staring intently at him.

"Cute expression, brat."

"Why are you here? This is Voyeurism!"

"So? I don't give a fuck. Finish." His voice was so monotone. As if he didn't just walk into his "partner" masturbating. It was almost like this happened on a daily basis and Levi just didn't care anymore. As if this was a normal thing!

"You really are an old perv! I didn't mean to do this in the first place!"

"And yet here you are. Now hurry up before I get bored."

"How long were you watching me?"

Levi laughed. "Long enough. I find it interesting you find me sexy enough that you had to resort to this as a way to cure your teenaged bullshit. I find it disgusting yet flattering."

"I really hate you,"

"Yeah but your dick doesn't."

Eren groaned, fixing himself and trying his best to get rid of his red face. He stood, pulling his jeans up better on his hips before staggering towards Levi. He sat down and asked, "Is your name really Rivialle?" He looked around rapidly as he tried to get his boner to calm down.

Levi raised a brow and said. "It's _Rivaille_, you shit. And by birth, yes. Named after my father. Now don't change the subject you shit, finish what you've started before I do it for you."

"What?"

"I didn't stutter."

"What the hell is wrong with you?!" Eren asked quickly. Levi raised a brow and moved closer to Eren who took a cautious seat back.

"You don't remember, do you?"

"Remember what?"

"When you were in the hospital. Do you remember anything around that time? Whereas you and I are concerned?"

The teen thought for a moment. Most of everything seemed like a terrible blur to him. He felt ashamed he couldn't remember a single thing about his experience except for his dreams and what he ate for breakfast before he was discharged. The most memory his brain could manage was his last day in the care unit. He remembered waking up, eating a light breakfast, getting wheeled out to Levi's car where his mom came to get him, going home, watching some TV before dozing off to sleep. Anything before that was a complete white blur.

"N-no... Not really... Bu-but when I think about it, what happened to your cheek?"

Eren ran his thumb over the healing wound and Levi took his hand. "You did this you shit."

"What the hell are you talking about? I didn't do anything to you!" Eren pulled his hand back and Levi rolled his eyes.

"The doctor said you won't recall anything that happens until you're fully recovered. So let's just drop it." Eren nodded and Levi continued. "Listen, while you were somewhat in your normal state of mind but not exactly, I told you something that many people would kill to hear me say. But so far, only one person was lucky enough to hear me say this and that person is Petra. I like you. A lot."

Eren sat for a moment allowing the words to sink in. He didn't mind the fact blood was rushing to his cheeks because he was no longer focused on getting rid of his "problem" instead he was trying to get his heart to stop racing.

"Isn't this all just a game?" He finally asked. "You're not exactly the romantic type."

"I agree," Levi said. He pushed Eren back and hovered over him. "Romance is the type of shit that makes me want to throw my guts up. But with you it just feels right."

"...I'm not sure if I want to do this,"

"I'm not gonna force you to do something you don't want. But I'll say this, I like you. And I need an honest answer before I try to make a move on your nerdy ass."

"But I thought this was all a stunt."

"It is," Levi admitted. "But the crowd already thinks we're a couple. Why don't we actually make this a thing? Only you and I need to know we're legit."

Eren shrugged. He placed his hand on Levi's chest to push him away before he sat up. "I-I never said I liked you back... But I actually kinda do... But I'm just afraid of what might happen..."

"What do you mean?"

"Like what if we break up? What if we're not as compatible as we think? What if it ends like you and Petra did?"

Levi remained silent. Eren did have a point. Levi believed him and Petra were compatible and were going to marry for life but they never did.. Life didn't go like how he wanted it to. But somehow this was different. This was much more comforting and it felt like this wasn't going to go wrong. Eren has all the elements Levi didn't and vise versa. Eren gives Levi the feeling and components he's missing in his life. Something he's been craving ever since his failed engagement. He looked Eren dead in the eye and leaned in, brushing his lips over his.

"You give me what I've been missing in my life, Eren. There's a long way we need to go to build this relationship on a better ground. Something solid but I know it'll work."

He leaned in and pressed their lips together soon to find himself melting into the kiss. Eren kissed like shit but somehow he felt himself enjoying it.

"Aha!" Levi looked up quick and a series of photos were snapped with loud sounds and bright flashes. Hanji stood with a creepy smile, drool running down her lip. "You guys are too cute! Hahahaha! Mikasa! Wait till you see what your big brother's been bangin'!"

"Oh you shitty four eyes!" Levi rolled off Eren and ran after the woman. "Just wait till I catch you!"

"Hahaha!" Eren sat up, red tingeing his cheeks and a small smile on his lips as he wiped his lips. Maybe Levi was right. They could make this work.

* * *

A/N: Oh my gosh, I broke my laptop and I lost everything that I already typed up! So I had to go on my tablet and retype the entire thing as best as I could :(

Im not gonna keep you guys here long so... Thanks for the reviews follows and favorites, your support is my inspirations my strawberries! I have school tomorrow and three pages of homework so I should get started on that. For all the people who leave their homework for Sunday night, I'm with you.

Review Response:

Imerys: Lol, so I basically called Eren a girl?! Thanks for telling me. Is anything else incorrect?

TheSwordHolder99: Lol, my mom gives me those looks too except she says "I tell you anime is consuming your life" at the end.

Rika Orijima: Thanks! Eren: 19 Levi: 22 Hanji: 26 Mikasa: 20 Petra: 21 Auruo: 23 Erwin: 29 Marco: 20 The orphans: Ranging from 4-7 Maya: 53 I think that's it for now

Glasses: He might... Give it some time

Mauigirl201: I like it, you should bring it onto fan fiction so it can get some more views.

Beloved Nightmare Union: Yeah, that's why I tried to make him against Levi since in this he sees him as a threat and a thorn in his and Petra's relationship. I like the theory though. The Petra theory is really good as well.

ella343e: We'll see who did it. And baby Eren just sounds too cute! And I'll be reveling who hurt Eren in about three or four chapters from now

Lovely-Bunny: I dunno. I might like to have some hatred from Carla towards Levi just so she can embarrass him. I love it when the mom hates the boyfriend, its too adorable. And I know it seems like Carla doesn't care but she really does.

Tian Lee: This compared to my other chapters is considered short! And thanks for reviewing!

Nee Kuchiki TT3TT: I can't even lie, Hanji is my favorite to write in this fic! I love writing her dialogue because she serves as comic relief.

xKireyy: Levi will get even more cuter. I swear I will make him overprotective as fuck and a sweetie to Eren.

NanoWorker: Thanks, youre too kind. I want to try to improve my writing though!

CeruleanCat: Very screwed up. I'll try using Levi as a way to give him and his mom a better future.


	13. Chapter Twelve: Pumpkin Bread

Roses.

Something that never failed to capture Eren's attention and entice his senses was the fact the Garrison building always reeked of roses. And it was extremely nauseating.

And it was awfully distraction in the middle of a meeting. Well it wasn't exactly a meeting per say. Unless a beautiful blonde man with extremely thick eyebrows staring at you awkwardly five minuets before the actual meeting started was considered a meeting than alright, we'll go with that.

Through the thick silence, it felt strange hearing Eren's unstable voice pierce the barrier. "Its kinda early..."

Erwin did nothing but stare before he nodded slowly. "Do you know why you're in here?"

Eren shook his head and waited for Erwin to continue. But instead he dug through his pocket and pulled out his phone quickly typing in the pass code and scrolling through the social site. When he found what he was looking for, he showed Eren. And dear god how he wished he never saw it. The photo made his stomach churn and his cheeks turn red. He even wrinkled his nose in disgust as he tried to hide his obvious embarrassment which was actually bottled up hormones.

He clutched his fist as his eyes burned with rage. It was the same photos Hanji took. The same ones Levi quoted "I took care of it don't worry," then proceeded to _try_ to have sex with him.

"Does this look familiar?" Erwin asked calmly. His eyes read Eren's shaken expression like an open book; but that didn't necessarily mean Eren sold himself out.

Yet.

The teen swallowed thickly and he spoke slowly. "No. I don't remember this. This never even happened! Kiss Levi? Why the hell would I want to kiss that old disgusting rotten bat? I'd rather fuck my cat over him...?"

Oh, the world is filled with an infinite amount of liars. And Eren's one of them.

Eren cursed himself when his voice died down but Erwin seemed to buy it so he wasn't going to question it. Especially since he was let off the hook so why continue with the subject? Its like you're in the middle of a bear attack and the bear let's you go but your like fuck it and run right back into the bear's cage because you're questioning if it was right or wrong.

"Is that so?"

"Yes..." Eren said.

"I see..." Erwin nodded. He read through the stats and comments as the door opened and in walked Pixis with his representative in pursuit, Hanji sufficing a laugh and an obviously pissed off Levi who took a seat next to Eren without a word.

"Erwin, Eren, you two got here somewhat early," The older man said taking a seat. He looked at Eren who growled silently. "Is something wrong?"

"N-no. Not at all."

Levi glanced over at Eren, slightly concerned due to Eren's behavior. But shortly he dropped it thinking it was just Eren acting like a spoiled brat like usual.

"Before you continue, I have something I'd like to say," Erwin said to Pixis. He stood and looked Eren and Levi in the eyes. Levi held no expression like always and put on his usual "What the hell do you want," face.

"There was photo that surfaced the internet two days ago sometime around two AM and its been speculating positive responses. This photo managed to take you from the top 100 to the top 30. But the only reason you've managed to move yourselves up on the charts is because of negative comments concerning the photo rather than the positive ones."

"Run that by one more time." Eren said.

"The only reason your current position is number 23 is because of the overwhelming amount of negative criticism from critics and online users." Erwin explained.

"Let me see." Levi said simply, extending his hand. Erwin handed his phone to the model and Levi stared at the photo. He scrolled through the comments and skimmed over them. He wasn't phased by the destructive criticism but he certainly didn't go unnoticed.

"What's the big deal? I deal with this bullshit everyday anyway."

Erwin took his phone back. "You're right. But you know the rules for Celeb Feast."

Eren looked at Levi then at Erwin confused. "There are rules?"

"Mhm. And if you did like I said yesterday, you shit you would know that," Levi responded bitterly. "I really hate having to repeat myself so I'd advise you listen close. You already know celebrities in the top 10 can go so we got that cleared up. But you can only attend if you have a positive fan base. Not the opposite."

"How come?"

"Because everybody follows the crowd. If you have a controversial fan base and it overrules the positive one, they won't allow you to attend till next year and that's only if you clear your name up. Think about it Jaeger, who wants to see someone who's only gonna get booed the entire night?"

Eren sighed heavily and wrinkled his nose.

"So Levi, what do you intend on doing to fix this situation?" Pixis asked. His eyes were steadily focused on the model waiting for his characteristic response of profanity and bitterness. But Pixis was surprised by his answer.

"I don't know. I'll figure something out when the time comes."

"That's strange coming from you."

"And your point is?"

"Levi, watch your sarcasm." Erwin warned.

"Look, I don't give a fuck who you are. Don't say stupid shit to me unless your ready for my reply. If you can't handle my mouth don't bother talking to me."

"Oh Levi, you need to put your balls in a freezer and chill out," Eren laughed. He raised a brow as Levi shot a glance at him. A glance that the teen could swear would rust metal.

"Oh Eren," Levi mimicked. "You should shut the hell up before I take your balls and shove em' in a freezer except I'll sell them to a horny fangirl on eBay."

"Old bat," Eren muttered.

"Little shit,"

"Pungent geezer,"

"Fucking brat!"

"Ladies, ladies, you both have a penis so there's no need to fight." Hanji interrupted cooly. She laughed as Levi shot her an annoyed look before adding a quick "sorry" at the end.

Pixis smiled and said, "You two are really gonna shine when you perform. You guys are quite the entertainment."

"That's_ if_ we perform," Levi responded.

"You will. If you two can fix this thing and continue to keep the audience pleased Celeb Feast will be a breeze. Speaking of which, Rico,"

The girl gave a quick nod and stepped forward, placing a binder in front of her boss before fixing her posture.

"If you two manage to attend Celeb Feast, what do you want to do?"

"What do you mean? Don't be so fucking vague." Levi groaned. Rico sent an annoyed look at him in which he challenged without second thought. She huffed and pushed her hair behind her ear.

"Well for example, a few Garrison employees have taken it upon themselves to decide a few songs you guys should sing-"

"I don't fucking sing. No. Next option," Levi deadpanned.

"You guys could make a live porn," Hanji suggested. Her lopsided grin intensified as Levi's fist clenched.

"Hanji, you were quiet for the past few minuets. Do the world a favor and just continue with that golden silence." Levi said as calm as he could. He had to choose his words wisely as well.

"Come on, you on you like the idea."

"No."

"No anal...?"

"Get out."

"Haha! Hush up, small fry. I'm only try'na help~"

"You're trying to give him a heart attack and its hilarious as hell!" Eren commented.

"I hope it's as funny as you on bottom."

Eren's hand slammed on the desk and his voice cracked as he yelled, "What?! Why am I bottoming? It's the other way around, old man!"

"Are you suggesting we had sex?"

"No! Fuck you!"

"When and where, you little shit? You want to take on Hanji's bullshit expect me to end it."

Eren sighed and elbowed Levi in his side.

"Are you two done?" Rico asked clearly annoyed.

"I'm getting so fucking annoyed by you-" Eren quickly clasped his hand over Levi's mouth and smiled awkwardly at the representative.

"Yes. We are done. I'm sorry for his attitude, he hasn't had his midmorning nap and medicine." He noticed Levi's eyes darkened and quickly removed his hand before Levi could do anything. Well, maybe Levi wasn't gonna bite him but why take a chance?

The model used his arm to wipe his lips and stood angrily. "Keep your filthy hands away and off my face."

"Sorry..."

"Any more suggestions? - Hanji, sit your ass down and don't say another word."

"How about you do another dance? The crowd seemed to really like it." Erwin asked. He was prepared for Levi's com back and he wasn't going to pinpoint words on Levi since there was no filter on the man's mouth and he didn't care who he was addressing.

"I don't care."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Rico asked. "It means exactly what I said: I don't care. Or to put it nicely, I don't gave a single fuck. I'll do it, sure. Just chose a song I'll actually enjoy."

"You know you'll be dancing with Eren, right?"

"I'm aware."

"Wait, I never agreed to this!" The teen spit out quickly. Levi shrugged, resting back in his seat and taking in a deep breath. "Well I did. And aren't we a "couple" wouldn't it look strange without you with me~?"

Oh how Eren wanted to wipe that smug smirk right off Levi's face. He just wanted to smash his face into the ground and beat the man into it. He hated the teasing from Levi and he hated how he was gonna be dragged into something he wasn't sure he wanted to do. Eren can't dance and he knew that damn well. And he surely can't dance with Levi. He'd have to sell his soul in order to get rid of his two left feet.

"I'm actually not too sure on this."

"Well I am. I think this'll be fun. Right, brat?"

"Nuh-uh," Levi noticed how Eren sounded like a spoiled child. "I'm not doing this."

"Remember you little shit, we're both in this shit together. So if you coward out then you throw everything off and we can't afford any speculation. So you're either in or you're in."

Eren looked at Levi, who was staring into him which made him uncomfortable. He then looked at Hanji who held a soft smirk. Then he looked at Erwin who sat back, snuggled in his jacket waiting for Eren's decision. And lastly there was Pixis who didn't mind which ever choice Eren chose. But Eren knew deep inside, Pixis wanted him to agree on this. He wanted everybody on the same boat.

Hell, everybody wanted him to agree to this. So reluctantly he said yes and waited for further instructions.

* * *

This all felt wrong. Eren had that stomach quenching feeling that something bad was gonna happen and there was nothing he could do about it and he wanted to try in all his power to get rid of his anxiety.

Currently, he sat propped up against the studio mirror. Or should he say Mikasa's studio mirror.

Of course Levi wasn't in the mood to drive to the café just for permission to use her studio and instead took it upon himself to use the spare key and trespass.

Eren shivered before he watched Levi paced back and forth trying to set up his iPod to a small set of speakers Mikasa kept in the back.

He really didn't want to be here. Eren would feel a thousand times better if Levi asked to use her place. But then again, she was his sister. So maybe it was fine?

"Oi, brat," Eren looked up, snapping out of his train of thought. "Do you have a specific song in mind?" Levi asked, squatting down and taking the portable music device in his hand. He looked at Eren through the mirror who looked clearly confused.

"I... I don't really have one... Um... My Chemical Romance?"

"MCR fan, huh?"

"Is that supposed to be a bad thing?" Eren asked slightly irritated.

Levi shrugged and looked down at his iPod. "No, not really. I just don't take you as the type of person who's into that kind of music. You seem like a boy who sits back and listens to shitty generic music because a little bit of a guitar solo and drums give you a headache."

"I really don't know what the hell you take me for. But you're pretty old,"

Eren stood and paced over to the model. Eren tugged his jacket tighter around him before he sat down and took Levi's iPod, scrolling through his playlist.

"I don't think you can handle such intense tunes. It might cause your blood pressure to rise. We don't want that, do we?... You have Nirvana on here? ACDC? The Rolling Stones? Apocalypta? Three days grace? Sleeping with Sirens? Starset? You even have Good with Grenades! But you only have one song..."

"Bruises and Bitemarks." Levi said, slightly correcting Eren. "Do you want to practice to that one?"

"No," Eren pushed Levi away from him and stood. "I can't dance. This whole dance routine thing is gonna be completely fucking useless. There's no point going through all this trouble."

"Listen brat, the fact I'm wasting my time in here is enough to know there is a point going through all this trouble. We havent even started and you're already trying to leave."

"I'm not trying to leave, I'm trying to avoid doing all this for nothing."

Levi rolled his eyes and clicked the song. He put down his iPod and walked up behind Eren, wrapping his arms around his waist and pulled the taller boy to his body. The model swayed his hips, moving Eren's along with his in a steady rhythm. Eren's breath hitched in his throat as he tried to pry Levi off him but failed because even though there was a height difference, there was also a strength difference between them too. And even though Eren beat Levi in the height category, Levi had an advantage in the strength department.

"Calm down, shitface. Instead of fighting it, go along with it," His hands guided over Eren's body trying to make him loosen up a bit.

"You say I'm hormonal?!" Eren cringed, still struggling to get out his grip.

"Stop squirming like a disgusting worm. You should feel pretty damn lucky you're in this situation."

"What's so lucky about this?" Eren asked, trying to regain his breath. Levi stopped his hip motions and leaned to Eren's ear. His lips graced Eren's earlobe and he spoke slowly.

"Because we're in here by ourselves. I'm into it and by that look on your face you're into this too." He said, inhaling Eren's scent before burying his face in his neck.

Eren groaned, rolling his eyes as his face grew warm. He lolled his neck to the side and pushed Levi's face away. "Stop letting your hard on talk for you. You're creeping me out."

"Jesus Christ, Jaeger. What the hell's gotten your dick in a twist?!" Levi growled. He pushed Eren away from him angrily and pushed his hair from his eyes so he could look at his partner clearly.

"I'm fucking cold and you're not making it any better!" Eren half lied. Levi blinked obviously dumbfounded by Eren's answer. It wasn't stupid, no. Well not as stupid as Levi thought it would be but he wasn't expecting such an answer. Was he really cold?

"Are you serious?"

Eren nodded and said, "You're wearing expensive shit. I'm wearing an old sweater my mom made and a tattered jacket I had for years. Of course I'm fucking cold. I'm freezing my ass off and the AC is on instead of the heater!"

The AC was on? Damn, Levi didn't notice. What Eren said is true. He did by rather pricey winter clothing and wore a good size bundle while out. But Levi can't stand the cold. If there was something he hated more than stupid people it was the cold.

"Come here," The model walked over to where his iPod rested and paused the song. He took a seat against the wall and lifted up his jacket.

Eren narrowed his eyes and took cautious steps towards the man. "Sit." Levi commanded simply.

"I'm not a dog, you know." Eren spit back. Levi laughed to himself but he didn't show it on the outside Except his lips deceived him and the corners of his lips twitched.

"You're my dog, now sit boy and I'll give you something special."

"God, you make it sound like a bad hentai," Eren said with humor.

He even smiled a little as he sat in front of Levi. The man stared at him for a moment and Eren tried to process what he was thinking coming to no conclusion. After a moment of silence, Levi took Eren's body and pulled him onto him, resting the teen's head on his lap. And before Eren could say a word, Levi's thick jacket was hauled over him and snuggled over the two.

"How about this? Now you don't have shit to complain about."

"I guess this is okay."

"You need clothes, brat. Walk around in this skimpy thing you'll catch hypothermia."

"Levi, what the hell don't you understand by I don't have money? Sure, I'm modeling for shits and giggles but even though I've been caught up with it this isn't my true profession. It's yours," The teen took a deep breath before he continued. "I'm broke. I leave all the money to my mom so she can pay for the shop and buy what the shop needs and pay the bills. We don't have an easy life-like you and I don't know why it's not sinking into your thick skull."

Levi remained silent and let Eren's words sink in. Slowly, Levi nodded his head and rested his head against the wall.

"If I take you shopping, will you shut the fuck up?"

"I'm not doing that, you already have to put up with me."

"Yes, that's true. And I get nothing in return because you're a virgin brat."

"I'm not a virgin!"

"Prove it," Levi said lowly. His voice was gruff and soft like dark velvet.

"I can't,"

"Show me how "experienced" you say to be."

"Gah, you're making this awkward," Eren stood, keeping Levi's jacket wrapped tightly around him. "Aren't you supposed to be showing me how to dance?"

Levi rolled his eyes and stood. He picked up his iPod and went on YouTube typing in the desired song before he looked at Eren. "Before I teach you how to dance, I'll show you the dance I did five years ago."

Soon, a somewhat dark, rather catchy tune came through the speakers and Levi walked into the middle of the room directly in front of Eren.

_**Come baby listen there's some things you wanna know**_

_**But look at about this loveless I know where was gonna go**_

_**Until you let a proof now that you can try to show me**_

_**Other ways to go about it I already know**_

Eren watched him touch himself; running his hand along his toned stomach making their way down to the top of his belt.

_**This is a relationship in which we make sacrifices**_

_**Tip it, cut it, split it up and leave the body paralyzed**_

_**Unable to be clear that you listened that you realized**_

_**That's just what you got, a deal, take the wedge and pay a price**_

Levi moved his hips flawlessly to the rhythm of the song which was a somewhat quick. His moves were fluid and sensual. He seemed... comfortable; almost happy. Well not really happy but oddly comfortable. Though his face told an... erotic yet blank story but from the way he moves, Eren could tell he has confidants; a lot at that. He had no problem moving in such... voluptuous ways.

_**Forty days and forty nights you worked to seduce me**_

_**I listen to the lyrics and the song 'cause it amuse me**_

_**And I sing along and I last long decided to reduce me**_

_**To a puppet on the shelf to scream: "I'm puppet lessa, choose me!"**_

_**So come on baby, come and love me like a kamikaze**_

_**Well good night on flumsy glab the light and lub the Papparazzi**_

_**Go and melt my knees with flames, the flames will all renew the symptoms**_

_**Sum it up to love 'cause I'm ready for the game**_

Eren's face turned red as Levi made his way down half way before bending over backwards slowly, grinding his body to the beat.

Levi turned his attention to Eren and opening his eyes reveling an intimidating gray mixed in with passion. Eren felt so uncomfortable as a lump in his throat formed as their eyes mixed together, slowly getting caught up in the moment.

Levi flashed a quick smirk, making Eren blush like mad. The teen brought his knees up to his chest. This was like a bad car accident and he just couldn't look away.

_**What do you want me to be?**_

_**Show me 'cause I want it**_

_**Give you everything you wanna**_

_**Give me everything you need**_

_**I got a soul for sale, a soul for sale**_

The model grinded to the beat, his hands moving along the length of his body, his hips moving back and forth with no hesitation and no trouble at all. Those succulent, delicious moves as he turned around to Eren walking slowly with his hips swaying side to side.

Eren felt like he was sexually assaulting him with the way he moved. The way he made love to the air. Hm. Eren never thought he'd be jealous of something he couldn't see nor hear and which gave him the necessities to live but hell, he was fucking jealous of the air.

Levi kneeled in front of him, prying his legs open so he could squeeze in between. He pinned Eren's against the chilling mirror which he really needed in this moment. Before Eren could get a word out, Levi's lips brushed over his as he whispered the words to the song on Eren's lips.

"_Sign in the line, Ma__ke a deal with the devil, Make__ a deal with the devil in blood. I know your love is bad but I want it all."_

Instead of kissing him, he kissing along Eren's collarbone. Leaving butterfly kisses along the younger male's shoulder.

He then left a quick peck on his lips and brushed the hair from Eren's dilated, lustful eyes. He looked so innocent yet vulnerable. Just the way Levi liked him. A defenseless, inexperienced virgin just wanting trouble because he's just too damn cute.

Eren's cheeks were red so were the tips of his ears. Yup. Just too damn adorable.

"I can see you're aroused," The model said lowly, not taking his eyes from Eren. The teen shook his head and looked down. "You fucking wish,"

Levi muffled a dark chuckle in his throat and used one hand to run along the hem of Eren's jeans, making Eren jump suddenly. "So if I stripped you of your lower entities, you're cock won't stand on its own?"

A breath hitched in Eren's throat as he squeezed his eyes shut. God, this moment was just too much and everything was happening too quickly. And Levi's gruff, seductive voice mumbling dirty words in his ear definitely was not helping.

"Alright, I believe you,"

What? No no no, Levi did not just give in. Something was up. Levi was gonna do something because there is no way in hell Levi is just gonna believe someone without interrogating them until they finally give in.

Levi stood up and walked out the room. Eren stared at the blank room, trying to figure out what Levi was doing? Was he leaving?! Like hell he was gonna leave Eren inside here!

Eren was quick on his feet. He almost tripped when Levi came back into the room with a white vase in hand. He realized it was the vase that resided on the front counter when you enter the building. He walked over to Eren and shoved the vase into his chest. Eren almost dropped it but he got a firm grip on it.

"I'm going to teach you the methods of seduction. Sell me this vase with your body."

"Eh, what?" Levi grabbed a bottle of water and drank some before he took a seat next to his iPod. "I didn't stutter, brat. Make me _want_ the vase."

"How?!" Eren exclaimed. He held the vase out towards Levi and said bitterly, "Here, take it. I don't want it."

"I don't want it either. And it's because of your shitty attitude."

"What the hell am I supposed to do with a vase?" Levi groaned, tired of listening to Eren's constant rambling and walked over to the younger boy. He took the vase and began.

...

What the fuck was Eren supposed to call this?! This was wrong. This was seriously wrong. The things Levi was doing to that vase should never be consented to the human eye. He was basically fucking a vase and it seriously made Eren uncomfortable. Oh, he'd never look at certain objects the same way again...

"Now you try," Levi said. "Except... Take off your pants,"

He couldn't have been more straightforward. And that fucking monotone voice and matching face. God how it pissed Eren off how he would be so blank and emotionless when demanding stuff like this.

"Oh, and your shirt."

"Hell no!"

"I hope you know you're gonna be dancing shirtless on stage with me. So its best if you get used to dancing in front of me shirtless or you're gonna shit yourself on stage. Now hurry up and strip."

Eren stood for a moment, twittling the vase in his hands. "Hurry up brat, we don't have all night."

The teen sighed. He set the vase with hesitation and stared at it for a moment. His hands slid over Levi's jacket as it slid off his shoulders and onto the floor. He then unbuttoned his homemade sweater, followed by his button up shirt leaving him shirtless and in his jeans. He picked up the case and stared at Levi. "That's all I'm taking off."

"Why is that?"

"I'm pretty sure I won't be stripping my pants on stage, you perv."

"Do you know why I ordered you to remove your pants?"

"...No...?"

Levi smirked light and said bluntly, "I wanted to see how hard you are. And they way by doing that was by asking you to," he kneeled down and stroked Eren through his jeans teasingly before standing back up.

"You should sound like that more often. I honestly hate high-pitched voices but when you moan-"

"Shut the hell up!" Eren squeaked. "Ju-just teach me your "methods of seduction."

"I already showed you. Make me want the vase, shitstain." He picked up the vase again and held it in his hands. He looked at his hazy, unclear reflection and took a deep breath. He tried to imitate Levi's move,guiding the vase from his chest and gliding it along his stomach.

"You look stiff. Relax." Levi coaxed. Eren felt strange moving the foreign object along his body. Especially after Levi raped it. It just felt... Fucked up.

He moved the vase down and when it was at the hem of his jeans, it slipped through his fingers and became varying pieces of glass babies.

He looked at Levi, taking a cautious step back even though Levi was a good amount of feet away and sitting across the room against the wall.

"I... I broke it..." Eren said flatly.

Levi rose an unimpressed brow and replied sharply, "Like I didn't fucking notice," He lifted his water bottle and tossed it to Eren who caught it.

"Hopefully, you won't find a way to break that. Take a quick break while I chose a song."

Eren took a seat. He ditched the water bottle and sighed heavily. This was stupid. Honestly, he was waiting time slaving away trying to learn how to seduce a fucking vase but said vase decided to commit suicide due to Eren's mediocre moves. Jesus, they weren't mediocre. They were terrible.

He looked up as a slow, rhythmic paced song flowed through one ear through the next. Levi walked to him and pulled him up, immediately spinning him around so he wasn't facing Levi. The man's hands ran along Eren's sides, examining his body with his hands and taking in every detail via touch.

Levi took note on his body. Eren was tall, no more than about 5'6, 5'7. He had a slender yet somewhat built body. Nothing special. It wasn't good but it wasn't bad either. He loved how Eren's body felt. His hips were somewhat defined and rounded perfectly, yet they weren't feminine. His hands ran along Eren's developing abs which weren't too defined but they were there.

"I want to teach you..." Levi groaned, he held Eren's hips in place and guided him along with his. "Instead of listening to the music, feel it. Youre not going to get anywhere just by listening. You have to forget everything except the song and dance along with it."

"Wow, you're _so_ inspirational," Eren said sarcastically with a smirk.

"Shut the hell up, brat. You need to loosen up, you're like a cow in heels trying to climb a tree with a rope around its neck. And that rope is tied to a in motion fourteen wheeler."

"Thanks for the enlightenment." Eren said with a roll of his eyes.

"Anytime, shitstain."

"Levi, stop it. This is so fucking pointless and it's getting nowhere." Eren said calmly. Levi stopped all motions and stared at Eren indirectly through the mirror. Levi let Eren go and turned on his heel and walking to his iPod switching off the song and unplugging it from the audio port.

"Maybe you're right, this is getting nowhere," Levi finally said.

"I told you!"

"Its getting nowhere because you don't want it to get anywhere. You're like a fucking train wreck."

"..."

"Let me tell you, when we get into the studio to learn our choreography for Celeb Feast, you're gonna be a fucking mess. And we'll only have a good two to three weeks to learn it." Levi wrapped his headphones around iPod and threw it into his pocket.

"I'd suggest you get out of this "I can't do shit" phase and man the fuck up. You have a good body and ass, use it to your advantage."

"I'm just not sexy-"

"And that's where you're wrong. You have a shit ton of potential in photos. And modeling is basically the same thing as dancing, except your moving your body instead of posing. Same elements and bullshit as modeling. And watching you shit on yourself like that is a complete turn off just like when you complain. You're stubbornness ruins the mood it pisses me the fuck off."

"You know, not everything's about you."

"You're right. This is about you."

"..."

"I know, this may be stressing to you. But you need to calm down and stop over thinking it."

"I... Alright..."

"I know I can't say we'll do this again but if you need a stress reliever, you know who to call."

* * *

Eren was happy to finally be in front of Titan Chronical. He never thought he'd miss the café after being away from it for a good fourteen hours. The light inside was still on meaning his mother was still awake or Mikasa was closing up shop.

Eren pushed open the front door and the smell of pumpkin bread filled his senses. Yup. It was good to be home. Way too good.

He noticed not only Mikasa and Carla was in the café but also Jean and Marco.

"Eren, sweetie!" His mom smiled, she stood up and paced to her son quickly throwing her arms around him. "You've been out for a while. When I woke up this morning, you weren't home."

"Come on mom, let me go! Not in front of everybody!"

She smiled and hugged him harder. "Show me low and I'll stop teasing ~" she cooed.

Eren rolled his eyes and locked his arms around the woman, placing a kiss on her cheek. "Oh, that was new."

"I'm in a good mood, I'm feeling generous." He responded. The woman got a questioning look and she looked at Eren. "Who's jacket is that?"

"Levi's," Mikasa answered. She stood off the couch with Marco and Jean's eyes following. She walked over to Eren and asked, "Why do you have Levi's jacket?"

"Because I was cold. Mind your own business, I don't need a babysitter."

Carla smiled lightly before clasping her hands together. "Well, we don't need to question Eren. Who wants pumpkin bread and tea?"

"Hey mom, don't give it to Jean. You shouldnt give horses tea and pumpkin bread. Basic horse 101."

"Watch it, Jaeger. You think just cause you got a new jacket from some chick you're tough shit."

"J-j-jean, Levi isn't a girl," Marco said softly. Mikasa shot a threatening look back defending both Eren and Levi. "Levi's my brother."

Jean's eyes widened and he laughed awkwardly. "Yeeeah, that's what I meant! I guess he'll be my b-b-brother in law someday, hm? I-I wasn't really looking forward to a sister-in-law anyway." Jean said, he shyly wrapped his arm around Mikasa who pushed him away respectfully.

"I don't like you. We're simply friends."

"See Jean, she has respect for herself. She doesn't suck or fuck horses," Eren laughed.

"Oh lord..." Carla groaned, she pinched the bridge of her nose as she walked to the kitchen to get her bread and to escape the escalating situation.

"She likes me Eren, she's just playing hard to get."

"She doesn't like you and I dont blame her."

"I like her..." Marco added softly. Jean, Eren and Mikasa looked at the blushing freckled boy on the couch and Jean was the first to speak.

"But s-s-she'll look good with me, isn't that right, ba-babe?"

"No."

"I think she's really pretty. Beautiful actually." Marco smiled.

"Me-me too! I like your hair! Y-youre really cute!" Jean blushed.

"Thank you." Mikasa replied flatly. Eren rolled his eyes and made his way upstairs to his room with Mikasa in pursuit.

Jean and Marco only stared at the situation and Marco had to grab Jean's wrist before anything got out of hand.

"What if something happens?!"

"Nothing will happen," Marco reassured with a gentle smile. Jean sighed and finally sank down next to the taller, but shy male.

He looked up at Marco and asked desperately, "You still love me... Right Marco...?"

Marco blinked confused by his words for a moment before smiling. "Sure Jean, you're a nice guy!"

"Can you tell Mikasa that?"

Marco shook his head with a laugh, "I like her though."

"May the best guy win?"

"S-sure? B-but I think Eren's beating us by a landslide."

"Marco!"

**~•~**

"Why do you have Levi's jacket?" Eren groaned as he fell on his bed and unlocked his phone.

"Like I said, I was cold and he gave it to me. I'll give it back tomorrow or something." Mikasa stared for a moment before she nodded her head.

"Alright."

"It's almost midnight, you should head home to get some rest."

"Okay."

"A-and you don't have to work at the cafe everyday. You still have...your..gym..." He swallowed thickly bringing up the gym.

"I insist. I like helping out, your mom is nice."

"Alright then, its your choice." Mikasa nodded and mumbled "Good night" before walking out and closing the door.

Eren sighed heavily as his notification sound beep and he saw the new messages.

**Levi: Keep watch of social media. Erwin sent me a message saying that photo is weighing out the positive reviews. So be prepared for tomorrow, brat**

**Levi: I'm not gonna be a fucking alarm clock so you better wake your ass up and be ready when I get there**

**Levi: Goodnight, brat**

Eren smiled a little seeing the last one and typed a quick good night before shutting his eyes and getting some sleep.

* * *

A/N: First off, I'd like to thank xChokoZani (Azania) for helping me write Levi's dancing part. So a big thank you to her!

Next week I'm posting a short chapter and then a special chapter because I may not be able to update the week after because of school shit. Ohmaigosh! The followers broke 100? Holy freckled Jesus you guys are awesome!

Don't worry all my reviewers and favorites, this story would be gone without you guys too! So a huge thank you to you guys for support and I promise I'll give you guys something special to celebrate.

Alright sooo... I'm not gonna stay long and I'm gonna start up the next chapters which hopefully will be posted next week!

_Song used: Soul 4 Sale ~ Simon Citrus_

_. _

Edit: I got sick with a fever and I swear, I do not remember typing up half this chapter xD but it was pretty good.

.

Review Response:

Hibary-Hiwatari: Punishment game I give a thousand promises I did not forget. It'll help Eren in the end, trust me. My sweet smut is a lot closer than you think so don't worry, I'm torturing myself typing nonsmutty chapters. I know its ooc. I had them in character in the begin and I had transition Eren to crazy Eren and back to Eren. Soo i pray next chapter, I'll have him back into character. And Levi, I'm trying to get him to open up yet still be that stoic douchebag we know and love.

Glasses: Aww, thank you :3 You're comment made my day a little better

Guest: My writing skills aren't really worth gawking over because a lot of fanfictioners have much better wording than me. But I thank you for your review.

Nee Kuchiki TT3TT: Soon, they'll be doing more than just kissing

xKireyy: Mhm. And all it took was like eleven chapters ?

TheSwordHolder99: I can't lie, I even confused myself rereading the chapter two days later. I was rushing to finish this chapter. He'll finish what he starred, don't worry.

CeruleanCat: Me neither xD

ella343e: I know right! Its not the best chapter written but yeah, diffidently cute

Lovely-Bunny: Mama boyfriend hatred is cute as hell!

CheshireKitKat: I won't stop until the end. Thanks

Beloved Nightmare Union: I agree. Personally, I'd think it'd be better for Hanji to be a girl instead of genderless because she's really pushing the feminine boundaries. And at first, I thought Auruo was at least in his mid thirties, early forties and Levi was in his early twenties. Don't you just love how SnK screws with you? But I think Levi bathes in titan blood while Aururo stresses too much xD

Mermaidhorse: I love Hanji, she makes this story!


	14. Chapter Thirteen: Strawberry Smoothie

"Eren, get your fucking finger out of the cake batter!"

Eren looked up, quickly placing his finger in his mouth taking it out with an audible pop. "Don't be so grumpy. Its cake batter, not meat."

Levi rolled his eyes, turning his attention back to his phone. "I don't give a fuck what it is. I don't know where your finger's been. And I don't want to taste it in my food."

"You're making me bake a cake. I think I deserve something special."

Levi had to cover his mouth and bit his lip from saying his thoughts aloud. He was almost about to laugh even.

"You'll get something you little spoiled shit. My foot up your ass." Levi said bitterly, but humorously. It wasn't as serious as Eren thought it would be. But Levi did mean it.

"That sounds a little painful."

"It won't be as painful as-"

"Levi," Mikasa interrupted. She shot a look at Levi, and walked to the sink washing her hands free of the ham she was preparing. "Why don't you butter and season the turkey?"

"Do what?"

"You heard me. You can't seen to keep yourself entertained long enough to prevent yourself from saying such remarks, so I'll give you something to do."

"You don't know what I was gonna say." Levi replied plainly. He slid off the counter stool and walked past Mikasa.

"Yes, but I have the oddest feeling I won't like it. Now get to work."

Thanksgiving was no more than a few hours away and Mikasa and mostly Eren have been working around the kitchen trying to get dinner ready for noon tomorrow. Eren insisted on cooking the meal this year and letting his mom sit down and enjoy it instead of the usual, Carla makes almost everything while Eren acts as a semi-useless assistant.

Levi slid his phone in the back of his pocket, slightly irritated reading the comments online. He simply stared at the uncooked, currently unappealing meal. He wasn't the one who usually prepared turkey, much less knew how since Mikasa always did it voluntarily. Levi knew how to prepare ham, that was a simple task for him. But he knew learned how to properly make turkey.

"Need help?" Eren asked walking up behind Levi. "You're staring at it as if it stole your lunch money. I wouldn't be too surprised if that was true too."

"Real fucking funny, Jaeger-"

"Don't get your panties in a twist, grandpa. Its easy, watch," He gripped Levi's wrist guiding them into the butter and before Levi could retort, his hands slid along the meal, making him cringe at the unwelcoming feel.

"Take the butter and-"

"This is fucking gross..." Levi muttered, taking an unconscious step back.

"Grow the hell up," Eren said teasingly.

"You shut the hell up." The teen finally let Levi's hands go and the shorter male walked to the sink, washing his hand with large amounts of soap with inaudible profanities.

"Levi, do me favor," Mikasa said, pouring cake batter into a glass dish.

"No."

"Run to the store and get me some more vegetables, there isn't enough for everybody."

"Yeah sure, its better than buttering this disgusting bird anyway," Levi said, drying is hands and snatching his keys off the counter. He was careful of Isabel, who was sleeping peacefully near Mikasa.

"I'll be back in about two hours."

"I'm coming with you." Eren said, running to the sink and running his hands under hot water with soap.

"No you're not." Mikasa and Levi shouted almost in sync.

"Why the hell not? Last time I checked I could make my own choices," He retorted stubbornly. He pushed past Levi but the main caught his shoulder and pulled him back. Eren stumbled backwards and before he knew it, a sharp pain emerged from his back.

"And last I checked this was my home and my car." Levi said sharply.

"Eren!" Mikasa kneeled down next to the teen. "Are you alright?"

Eren growled, using his free hand to push her away. He then gripped the counter he bumped in and said, "I'm fine. I don't need you to tend to me like a baby, Mikasa," he then looked at Levi.

"And I'm coming with you."

**~•~**

Levi's top priority besides get out the cold, was to shut Eren the fuck up. He told the little shit to stay home and not come out where its fucking freezing. But if the little stubborn shit wants to get shit then by all means, go ahead. Levi will not give a single fuck.

"Levi, its cold."

"The heaters on."

"And the window on your side is open so... It kinda defeats the purpose."

"Look, I'm not suffocating in my own car because your shitty ass is cold. This is why I told you to stay home. But if you want to freeze your tits off go right a fucking head. See if I care."

"...There's another reason why you didn't want me to come out." Eren said simply, tugging his sweater tighter around him.

Levi eased on the break,slowing the car down a little. He squinted for a second then nodded. "You're right."

"What is it?"

"I'll give you a hint. It's starts with an F and ends with U. And if you guess it right, congratulations. You've proven you're not completely mentally handicapped."

"You're just a ray of light. You need an ice-cube up your ass, it'll cool you down a little." The man behind the wheel reminded silent for a moment, letting his imagination and colorful choice words run free before replying with a simple, "You would this, how exactly?"

Eren looked over. Levi returned the look with a quick sideways glance. "I didn't know you were into the kinky shit. You're probably wet thinking about it."

"You're such a fucking pervert. Go rent a porno or something, I'm not masturbation material!"

This time, Levi remained silent. Uncharacteristically silent. Usually, he wasn't above provoking his opponents or belittling anyone who irritates him. Honestly, this sudden change in character made Eren shut up and shift down deeper in his seat because he was afraid if he said another word something dreadful was gonna happen.

Levi pulled into a parking spot in front of a building Eren has heard about many times from the girls around school. The mall.

Sina districts only mall and probably one of the most expensive place in Sina besides those rich restaurants whereas you must have your pinky up while sipping half an ounce of tea or you'll be belittled and thrown out.

But the main question was why the hell were they here? Mikasa asked for vegetables not 500 dollar shoes with a matching handbag.

Eren had these thoughts running through his mind but the extremely distracting yet strangely beautiful lights coming from the building. He snapped out of his gawking when he heard the door slam and he realized Levi already got out the car and already walking towards the building.

He wasn't really gonna go in there, right?

Without second thought, Eren opened the door, slammed it and ran towards Levi. "Oi, don't break my fucking car!" The man stopped in his tracks and turned to see Eren running towards him.

"I didn't break it!" Eren called. When the teen finally reached the model, he asked with dragged, shaky breaths, "Are we really going inside here?"

"No, we're going up that woman's ass," he said sarcastically, pointing at a blonde woman who was packing her newly brought items into her car. "Don't ask such stupid questions."

"Sorry..." The shorter man began walking with Eren in pursuit. He could hear Eren's teeth rattling as he continued to tug at the worn out sweater trying to find whatever heat supply he could from the tattered winter wear.

Levi sighed, closing his eyes out of annoyance and sympathy. Again, he stopped dead in his tracks, Eren knocking into his back and almost falling over.

"Why'd you stop like that?! Did you go brain-dead or something? I'd hate to-"

Eren's eyebrow raised in confusing as Levi began go remove his jacket, leaving himself in a dark gray thickly weaved sweater with the word _Corporal _sewn on the top right of his chest in black. He turned to Eren and pulled his jacket around him, taking a few steps back to admire how Eren looked with his jacket. He smirked lightly and said, "It looks better on you than me."

"I...um...thank you?"

"What happened to the jacket I gave you last week, brat?" Levi asked, adjusting his sleeves.

"In my closet."

"It better be. Now come on, I got shit to do."

Inside the store, immediately warmth took over Eren's once half-frozen body completely thawing him out. He looked like a lost puppy inside the warm colored mall. He looked up in awe at the large chandelier hanging from the glass ceiling that exposed the night sky to the inhabitants inside.

He couldn't help but notice even the glass was frosting.

He looked back at Levi who was still wandering throughout the store without him.

"Levi, wait up!" Eren yelled. He ran to the short man, pushing past many people calling out "excuse me," and "sorry" to the passing shoppers.

"This isn't a fucking playground," Levi scolded coldly. "If I wanted a child to tag along, embarrass me and piss me off I would've taken Hanji."

Eren groaned, pushing his head into Levi' shoulder. "Don't tell me your becoming a snobby dick too..."

"Pfft, hell no. I like to piss you off, yes. But becoming a high-class douchebag is not what I had in mind."

Eren didn't respond. He was too busy looking around, adoring the sights and smells. He watched people go up the escalade to the second floor, he watched many people wonder in and out of stores. Some of them were even window shopping! But when they saw something that caught their eye, they waltzed inside and bought it. Unlike him and Armin standing outside stores picturing themselves with what they wanted but couldn't have.

Soon, they reached the middle of the store which was an area where you could sit down and there was a huge water fountain in the middle of it.

He didn't have second thoughts about running over and putting his hand in, letting the cool water let his warm skin. He smiled, despite the fact people passed by and gave him bitter looks as if he was a deranged mental patient.

Levi sighed, irritated by Eren's behavior. He sat down next to the supposed nineteen year old and crossed his arms. "You know, instead of you eating at the table like the "adult" you claim you are tomorrow, how about you sit in front of the TV with your sippy cup, bib, plastic spoon so you don't poke your tongue or eye out, I put on some cartoons that'll grant you intelligence and the intellect you'll need in life and call it a day? Your mom could even breastfeed you as a treat, how does that sound?"

Eren rolled his eyes, pulling his hand from the water fountain and flicking his fingers at Levi's face, letting water fly. He replied with an entertained smirk, "Sounds great. Except I'll be fine without the last part..."

"Cheeky little shit,"

"Thank you."

"It wasn't a compliant."

"But I'll take it."

"Whatever."

"Hey Levi," Eren said lowly.

"What the hell do you want now?"

"Do you remember when you said I was wet from thinking about that ice cube thing?" Levi noticed the red tinting his cheeks and the brat wouldn't look him in the eye.

Levi felt his face heat up just a little at Eren's strangely cute actions.

"For fucks sake, don't tell me you're actually turned on by that?!"

"..." Eren made a small whimper as he shifted closer to Levi and Levi didn't hesitate to wrap his arms around his waist.

"I never took you as the kinky type, brat." Eren let Levi kiss his neck. It took all his might to hold back his laugher. He leaned down towards the fountain, dipping his hand inside. He leaned to Levi's ear, lightly nipping on it. He then whispered, "I'm not." His hand swung up, water splashing on Levi and some water splashing on his shirt. Eren jumped back, bursting into an uproar of laughter as Levi stood, wiping the water from his face.

"Haha! Looks like you're the wet one now!"

The man growled, retaining his anger. Calmly, he walked over to Eren. He quickly scooped him up. "Hey, wait. Wait. Wait! Stop! No-no! I'm sorry, okay? I'm sorry! What are you- no!"

Levi didn't think twice about throwing his brat into the fountain. He even dusted his hands clean as if he touched an ancient vase with millions of years of dust built up on it just for dramatic effect.

Eren sat up, his wet locks sticking to his skin just like the clothes on his skin. Plus he was wearing skinny jeans and water only made it cling to his hips, legs and thighs.

Eren sighed heavily, his chest rising and falling as he did so. Hr took his hand pushed his wet hair from his eyes.

Levi only walked over and took a seat with a smirk gracing his lips almost crossing over into a smile.

"I really hate you."

"Well, I could say the same to you, shitstain. Tell me, how does the water taste?"

"Just like your dick. Disgusting."

"I'll give you that one."

"You took it too far!" Levi choked back his laughter, stifling it in his throat and held his hand out.

"Are you trying to help me? Fuck no, I got this myself. I'm pretty sure if I take your hand, you'll push me under the water and laugh as I struggle to come up for air."

"Oh come on, I'm not that cruel."

"..."

"Plus I think drowning is a terrible way to get rid of you. I wouldn't want you to experience that again because from what I know, it sounds pretty fucked up," Eren stood on his own, a wet sound sounded as he stepped out.

"Come here,"

"No."

"Where are you going?"

"Back home."

"How exactly?" Levi asked, taking his keys from his pocket and swinging them teasingly around his finger.

"Give me those."

"I'll give it to you the day Erwin's eyebrows fly."

"I'm not joking anymore. That was fucked up and you know it - What the fuck are you staring at?! Is there something you want because I don't want shit from your snobby asses!" Eren yelled at a couple who stopped and exchanged whispers as if Eren was a caged animal on display.

The couple jumped back startled, the husband wrapped his arms around his wife and ushered her away from the raging teen.

"I guess I'm a bad influence on you," Levi said to himself.

"I'm going home."

"First, you don't have my keys and second, if you did, do you even have a permit? And like hell I'm letting you drive my car and total it. I'll probably find it crashed into the side of an anger management building."

"Fuck you. I'll take the bus or something, I'm getting the hell away from you."

The models hand reached out and caught Eren's pulling him back. "You're really gonna get yourself sick if you do that."

"And you care because?"

"Because, you're a lot more shitty when you're sick and I have to try harder to keep both of us pleased."

Eren sneezed and sniffed. "See? Do yourself a favor and go to the bathroom and get out of those clothes. Give me about five minuets and I'll get you some clothes. Alright?"

"I... Okay, fine."

**~•~**

After Eren changed out his clothes into the foreign, slightly oversized clothes Levi brought, the model gave him about seven hundred dollars to walk around and purchase only clothing for him and his mother. And it took all his strength not to buy the newest game council on the market as well as a few games and gaming accessories.

So he wondered into a store simply called Physique and looked around. He brought a few warm looking shirts and a few pairs of jeans. And it totaled to about forty dollars already. That's how much he spends in about two months tops.

This continued on till about half past the hour. Bags lined his arms and this feeling felt new to him.

He sunk down in a seat in front of Tropical Smoothie. He placed the bags by his foot and placed his bag of wet clothes in the chair next to him. Eren then pulled out his phone, unlocked it and texted Levi quickly.

**Eren: I'm ready to head home. I'm tired.**

**Levi: I'm behind two people before I check out. Where are you?**

**Eren: Tropical Smoothie**

**Levi: Alright, I'll meet you there**

**Levi: Did you buy bullshit?**

**Eren: No, I got what you told me to buy**

**Levi: Good**

**Levi: See you in a few**

Eren set his phone down and sighed heavily, putting his head down to shut his eyes and turn off his brain until Levi gets there and takes him home.

"Is that who I think it is?"

"I don't know, he looks like it."

"What if he is?!"

"Ohhhhhhh, then everybody will be jealous for sure!" Eren looked up and nearly had a heart attack when two girls screamed in his face in delight. They jumped up and down, clinging onto each other and fumbling with their photos to get their pictures.

"You're Eren! The-the-the same boy who's dating Levi!"

Fangirls. The absolute last thing he wanted to see and hear. And just give it a few minuets, the sea of fans will come swarming around.

"Is it true?! Are you actually... Y-you know?" The taller girl asked as she lowered her phone.

Eren blinked for a moment and nodded his head tiredly.

"Where's Levi?! Is he in the line?! Levi? Oh Levi, where arrrrre yoooou~?" The slightly shorter girl cooed. If the other girl didn't have the platform on her shoe, the shorter girl would've been tallest.

"Can we get a picture?!" The taller girl asked. She placed a staw in her mouth and Eren watched as the strawberry smootie shoot through the straw.

"No, you cannot." Levi said as he walked up to the table. He placed a quick kiss on Eren's cheek, earning muffled squeals and took a seat. Keeping his items to himself and out of their sight.

"We don't take pictures with fans, it'll give off the wrong impression."

"W-we understand!" The taller female exclaimed, shoving her phone back into her pocket.

"Can we ask you a question though?"

"Don't fuc-"

"Yes, please. We don't mind." Eren interrupted. They both challenged cold looks at each other but Eren gave in first.

"Why did you guys post that photo? I-its not a bad thing! Don't... Don't get me wrong but isn't that kinda... Personal... Or private in other words?"

Levi nodded, resting against the seat before he said anything. "You're correct. But nothing's private when you're well known and that's a con. Though, it wouldn't have seen the light of day if I didn't have such an illiterate coworker. She must've sent or saved one to some secret file or some shit because I know I deleted all of them."

"How can you be so sure?" The shorter girl questioned. She pulled up a chair and sat down waiting for an answer.

"Are you questioning me? I'm pretty damn sure I got rid of all of them. Sure, there are plenty of dimwitted models but I certainly am not one of them." The model replied coldly.

"Ooh, what made you want to become a model Eren?!" The tall girl asked.

"Oh I uh, I didn't want to become one. I'm still studying to become a Marine Biologist."

"I'm becoming a Marine Biologist! Right, Carly?!"

"I'm not, you can." The girl named Carly deadpanned.

Their conversation fell silent rather quickly and the short girl with the ponytail decided to say, "Do you guys know you're getting a lot of hate because of that picture?"

Eren and Levi's looks didn't change. "We're well aware, thank you." Levi responded.

"You guys don't feel the least bit offended? They keep shaming you for liking eac-"

Levi's fist slammed against the table to signal her to be quiet. The sudden action was enough to wake up Eren's senses. "What was that?" Eren asked.

"They're shaming you guys. On Twitter and Instagram and stuff."

"I think you two should go-" Levi said, standing up and trying to usher the girls away from their table.

"No, wait. They can stay. Explain this to me. Everything."

The girls looked at Levi who sunk back in his seat and currently focused on Eren. "You girls can go. Thanks for the company and big mouthes."

When they left, and stopped snapping photos and screeching like bats out of hell, Eren demanded the truth and Levi was reluctant to give it to him.

"Look, there are a lot of... Slurs going around and we're probably not going to be able to perform at Celeb Feast because of them."

"What are they saying."

"God hates us, death threats, homophobic remarks and shit like that. They act like big shit but in reality their unsocial people who hide behind a keyboard."

Eren nodded. "Why didn't you tell me this before?"

"Because I'm not your fucking social notification. I told you to keep watch of your own feed and what goes up. Plus I didn't think you'd handle it well. The first time I kissed you around someone who was, you bitched at me and cried."

"I didn't cry. And forget about that, what do you plan on doing to fix this mess?"

Levi shrugged. "I don't know. And why the fuck is it always me? Levi, what are you gonna do about this, Levi, what are you gonna do about that? Give yourself some advice and grow the fuck up."

"..."

"How about this. What are you gonna do about this? I'm not the only one in this relationship." Levi said.

"Pfft, this isn't a relationship. It's a rollercoaster ride and I can't get off."

"Oi, I asked you out you little shit. You agreed. So this is like basically a love-hate type shit. Now spew your plan, brat. I would assume you'd have some type of smarts in there."

"Hm... I do.."

"Well then what the fuck are you waiting for? Your balls to drop? If so, let me know so I can leave right now so I can live the rest of my life. I'll be back in about eighty-five years or so."

"You're just mad cause your balls are sagging."

"Like your boobs?"

"I'm not a girl!"

"Mhm. You're cute. Keep telling yourself that."

"Anyways, let's get off the topic of belittling Eren. I saw this... Scarf... In a store and I bought it for Jean..."

"Whoa Jean?"

"My pet horse, I visit him Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays. But hear me out," he reached into the bag below and pulled out a multicolored scarf.

"I was thinking... How about we wrap this around each other and take a picture then upload it. That's all I got."

"Pretty solid idea, fine. We'll go with it. It sounds like a better idea than mine."

"What was yours..?"

"You're over eighteen, correct?" Levi asked slowly, a dark smirk sweeping across his lips.

"I'm going back to the car."

* * *

"So how did you plan on doing this, exactly?"

Eren shifted towards Levi and tied the scarf around his neck, doing the same to himself as well. They were parked in front of Titan Chronical and after this, Eren would head inside and give his mother the gifts he brought for her. But for none, only one task was at hand and it would only take two minuets tops to get over with.

"Kiss me then I'll take the shot, okay? Its simple."

Levi rolled his eyes, turned towards Eren and hesitated for a moment before leaning forward and pressing their lips together. Eren was tense for the first few couple of seconds and exhaled slowly, relaxing his body and melting to Levi's addicting taste.

It was strange. Levi felt so comforting when he was around Eren or at least when he showed his softer side. But he was still a rude bastard who pissed him off. Besides that, Levi had this distinct feel and taste that comforted Eren. His presence made Eren feel the safety he's been missing for a while now. And it felt all too good.

Eren snapped the picture quickly and allowed his phone to drop, letting his hands find purchase at Levi's side and roam freely though his ebony locks. Levi broke away, heated pants was the only thing heard in the car. It was getting cold inside, but it didn't seem to bother either one of them.

"Why did you pull away?" Eren asked with a low voice. He sat uncomfortable on top of Levi who's back was pressed against the door and his head against the window.

"This is gonna get out of hand." He warned. He tried to push Eren off him but the brunette remained planted, instead he leaned closer.

"I was kinda hoping it would..."

Levi smirked, using his thumb and index finger to pulled Eren's chin forward. "Are you sure about this? I'm not taking it easy on you. You're too damn innocent and I'm taking every last bit of that away from you."

"I was expecting an answer worse than that." Eren responded. He was going to continue their heated kiss but Levi stopped him.

"I'm serious. Whenever I try to make a move, you usually complain an it ruins the mood."

"I'm not complaining, am I? If anything, I'm begging."

"I don't think you're ready. Not yet."

"You're always trying to fuck me, why are you giving up now when I'm willing to do this too?"

"Because, I don't want to do something we might regret." Levi half lied.

"I won't regret it."

"..."

Eren kissed him, letting him know via kiss that he won't regret it. Even if Levi does, this is Eren's choice. Even if its a terrible mistake, he'll learn from it. Right?

"I want to." Eren mumbled. He kissed his way along Levi's neck trying to find a place to leave a mark.

"These are your hormones taking control. You think you want to do this, but you don't." Levi moaned softly. Eren rolled his eyes.

"You're giving in too."

"You're right. Now get off. I'm not gonna fuck you tonight."

Eren pushed, finally done with trying to finish the deal with this stubborn old shit. What the hell's with him. For as long as Eren has known him, he would've given in and they'd be banging in the backseat. He slid off Levi, retrieved his phone and new belongs.

"I can see why Petra left you. And to be honest, I'm thinking about doing the same."

* * *

A/N: Authors note and Review Responses are in the next chapter.

Also, yaoi is in the next chapter! And it kinda comes out of the blue~


	15. Chapter Fourteen: Sugar Cubes :: Rated M

A/N: I guess I should say this now, yaoi lies ahead. And it kinda comes out of nowhere...

. sorrynotsorry.

.

_"I can see why Petra left you. And to be honest, I'm thinking about doing the same."_

Those words stung Levi, worse than he thought it would. Not only did it piss him off because Eren brought Petra into this but also because he was thinking about leaving him as well and they were barely dating for a month.

The smell of Thanksgiving fueled the house and the sounds of a television program Mikasa was watching and Isabel's purring around his legs.

Levi rubbed the back of his neck, leaning on the counter next to the oven waiting for the turkey to finish cooking so he could begin to line the table. But his mind kept wondering away from the Thanksgiving meal and continued to replay the haunting words from last night.

He couldn't have sex with Eren. He would love too, definitely. But the fact he went with Petra and took her virginity is the one thing that's provoking him from doing so.

Eren's still a virgin. That's one thing he knows for sure. And Levi was certain Eren believed Levi was still a virgin as well.

It always made him wonder. If he told Eren he already lost his virginity, would Eren still want to continue this? This is the same kid who says sunsets are beautiful and probably knows the dialogue from every shitty romantic comedy.

But... Eren's not the problem. Levi's getting in his own way. And his past is affecting is future more than he thought it would.

But who's to say Petra isn't fucking Auruo on the sidelines? Well, of course she is. It's a way for Auruo to get back at Levi. And that was though Petra. Yes, he still held a few feelings to the hazelnut haired woman but she obviously doesn't feel the same for him so why the fuck is he still trying?

"Levi," Mikasa called. The man snapped out of his thoughts and walked towards the living room. "It's Eren, he wants to talk to you."

Levi hesitated for a moment and walked slowly towards Mikasa's phone, gently taking it from her hand. Before Levi said a word, Mikasa got up and walked to another room to stay out of their business.

"What brat?" He asked coldly.

'"You had to flick off the camera, how childish can you be?!" Levi was clearly dumbfounded by his words. It took him at least two minuets to finally process what he was talking about.

"Ohh, you're talking about that picture we took,"

"You act like a fifteen year old, you had to flick them off?"

"Mm, yes."

"Why?"

"It was my way of saying thank you. And also I don't give a fuck what you think about us, I like you, you like me, they have something against it come take it up with me and see what happens."

"I thought we ended this "relationship" thing last night..." Eren said quietly. The line fell silent between the two. Levi sighed heavily and plopped down on the couch, pushing his hair from his eyes.

"Look, I don't intend to end anything just yet. Just because I won't shove my dick up your ass you think we incompatible? I'm sorry, how old are you again? I can't seem to figure it out since you have the intelligence of a fucking sea-lion._ Oh, he won't fuck me, he doesn't like me._ Eren, get out of that teenaged drama phase because wake up and seem the damn coffee you're nineteen and you'll be twenty by what - next year?"

"Yes," Eren replied bitterly.

"You're an adult. I understand you were aching to get in my pants but last night was not the right time. All we did was kiss for a fucking photo and all of a sudden you're coming on strong. Stop that. Its annoying and immature. Get all heated or whatever when we're not doing something where my job and reputation is concerned."

"I meant what I said last night though, don't get me wrong," the teen informed.

"And it was a shitty way to end the night. I'll be honest, those words stung and hurt like fuck. I never expected to say that but knowing you, you're temper gets the best of you."

"You're not so clean either, you threw me into a water fountain!"

"... Alright, our tempers get the best of us. That's one thing we need to work on."

"Okay..."

"Why didn't you call me? Why did you call Mikasa to talk to me?" Levi asked.

"I had to talk to her first about something's. Don't worry about it, its personal."

"Fine by me." Levi responded cooly. "I'll make it up to you."

"Please don't," He could hear the pleading in Eren's voice.

"Don't worry, I will."

"Will I be getting killed or injured in any way?" The teen asked cautiously. Their was a brief pause before he could hear a small chuckle from Levi's end. "I'm serious!"

"I know. And you're not gonna get killed or injured. Just trust me for once." Levi said.

"See, it's a bad thing when you say that."

"Seriously, just trust me for like ten minuets tonight. I have a few things I'd like to tell you."

"Alright," Eren's voice came through as low and soft. "Are you coming to pick us up?"

"No. Erwin and Hanji are picking up you, Carla, Petra and Auruo."

"See you then." Eren said.

"See you then." Levi responded.

**~•~**

"Happy Thanksgiving~!" Hanji's voice was heard all the from upstairs inside Levi's room. He finished up everything he needed to do before exiting and shutting the door behind him.

"I'm ready to eat!" Hanji cried.

"Calm down Hanji, we just got here." Erwin laughed. She looked at the food lined on the table and took her seat ready to dig in.

Levi paced down the stairs, two steps at a time and walked into the dining room to see everybody was already seated at the table and Mikasa and Petra were passing around plates and silverware. He noticed when Eren saw him coming down the stairs, he didn't look at Levi which threw him off a bit.

Instead of saying anything, he took a seat at the end of the table two seats from Eren.

Once Mikasa and Petra gave everyone a hefty serving of everything -which didn't look to appealing to Levi since he lost his appetite- Carla insisted they all take turns and express what their thankful for this year.

Levi was fine was everyone spoke and he shut Auruo out when he went on with his nonsensical bullshit Levi didn't want to bother to hear. But Levi showed all interesting when Eren stood to say what he had to say. Even though his face was impassive and perplexed, he was listening avidly to the words that came from Eren's heart, processed in his head and finally out his lips.

"I am thankful for my mom, of course. Without her, I would be here. And I'm thankful for Titan Chronical because if we didn't have it who knows where we would be... A-and-and I'm thankful for... For... A lot of other things... But I'm pretty sure what I'm thankful doesn't feel the same way. So that's it." Eren took a seat, taking a quick look at Levi before starting at his food.

Levi groaned in his throat and crossed his arms, sinking down in his seat. He half listened to everybody drag on what their thankful for until it came down to him.

"What are you thankful for, Levi?" Erwin asked.

Levi looked up,not changing his terrible posture and mumbled. "Nothing."

Everybody exchanged looks at each other -excluding Eren who was picking at his food- before focusing on Levi one last time.

"You can't be thankful for nothing," Mikasa started. "There has to be at least one thing you're thankful for."

"It's probably Petra but he won't say cause I'm around. Don't worry, I'll cover my ears just for you." Auruo said slyly. He even put his hands to his ears just for effect and to prove a point. Levi have him a dark glare, a threatening one. And by the look of his eyes, he was restraining his mouth and muscles from moving and causing a terrible scene.

"Auruo, stop that." Petra said. With her hand, she brought his hands down and placed her hands on his. She then turned to Levi and nodded for him to go on.

"... I'm not thankful for anything." He said flatly.

"What about me?" Mikasa asked softly.

Levi only shrugged. "Well... What about-"

"No. My answer is solid, I'm not thankful for anything."

The rest of the dinner was a major drag to Levi. He helped cooked half meals on his plate and he couldn't stomach any of it. If he took a spoon full in his mouth, it taste bland and tasteless and he would have to force himself to swallow not to be rude. Eren didn't look in the mood to eat either. He picked around and ate whenever he felt like. But half his plate was gone because of Hanji taking portions from him.

Levi didn't bother to pay attention to the conversation going around the table until he heard his name from Auruo.

"Oh, you got that from Levi?"

"Got what from me?"

"You're still here? I thought you turned to dust ages ago."

"Auruo, hush!" Petra scolded.

"He's talking about the clothes Eren got me last night. You gave him the money to go shopping and I haven't had the chance to say thank you." Carla said.

"Don't mention it." Levi responded lowly. "It looks lovely on you." It sounded like sarcasm but it was truely guinene.

"Thank you." Carla wore a simply spaghetti strap sundress with flowers adorning it.

"Heey, slow your roll there buddy! You're hitting on Carla because Petra doesn't want you? Isn't she a little too mature for a man like you?" Auruo couldn't stop himself from laughing when Levi stood, ready to attack. But of course Mikasa stopped and sat him back down.

"Why the fuck would I hit on Eren's mother you disgusting piece of shi-"

"I'm a forty-seven year old widow. Levi is a young man. I don't think he'd want someone like me." She laughed awkwardly, trying to break the tense tension.

"You're forty-seven?!" Hanji exclaimed. "I thought you were like twenty something! And I was thinking you and Erwin could get married!"

"Hanji, stop." Erwin said pinching his nose.

"Anyway, back on topic," Auruo cut in darkly. "Why aren't you grateful for anything? I'm sure you had plenty of opportunities this year."

"I did. And why the fuck am I so relevant to you? How am I affecting your life in any way? I don't give a fuck about you, I could live my life perfectly fine if you died today."

"Of course you would, then maybe you'd stand a chance with Petra. Unless that boy toy of yours over there gets to her first?"

Eren looked up, utterly confused by that statement. Since when was he Levi's "boy toy" and since when did he have his heart set out for Petra?!

"I don't like her. I-I mean as a friend, yeah. She's nice and all but-" Eren tried to say.

"Auruo, I already know what you're trying to do and let me tell you something, you're walking on some pretty thin ass ice-"

"Am I? I'd love to fall in. I really want to know how far you'd go to satisfy yourself."

"..."

"_Oi, Eren,_" Auruo said, obviously mocking Levi. "How do you feel about Levi? Hm?"

Eren shifted uncomfortably. He set down his fork allowing it to clank against the plate. "He's an... Interesting person to be around."

"That's it? Just interesting? I'm sure it goes a lot deeper than that."

"Auruo, that's enough!" Petra yelled. "Cant you guys go through an hour without ripping each other's heads off?!"

"I hope you know we didn't start this," Levi stated coldly. "Its that man you're forced to call a fiancée."

"I'm not forced to call him anything, Levi!"

"I told you he's still jealous. He can't live with the fact I have you."

"Auruo, I'm not even joking shut the fuck up!" Levi growled.

"Eren, hurry and speak up, boy. How do you feel about Levi? Aren't you sick of his constant abuse?"

Levi's hand slammed down on the table and he stood quickly, he was so close to Auruo before Mikasa and Erwin pulled him back, restraining him. "I don't abuse that little shit! Sure as fuck he pisses me off but I have never laid a finger on him to harm him in anyway!"

"I bet you've laid a finger on Petra."

Mikasa's and Erwin's grip loosened slightly due to Levi launching forward at Aururo, but it wasn't enough so he could break free.

"Don't fuck with me!" Levi shouted. "I have never abused Petra or Eren! I don't know what the fuck your getting this bullshit from but I wouldn't hurt either of them. Sure, I'll screw with Eren and put him in some pretty fucked up situations, but I swear to fuck. Strip him down and you won't see a single mark on his skin."

"Auruo, come on we're leaving. I'm not going to sit here and listen to you two act like children," Petra threw her jacket around her and stood. She adjusted her heels around her foot and began to walk off. "Auruo, lets go."

"You see what you've done?" Auruo said with a pleased smile. He walked passed Levi nonchalantly and whispered a quick, "I'll take care of her for you. There's no need to worry about her."

**~•~**

After the whole Levi vs Auruo situation, dinner ended rather quickly. Hanji, Mikasa, Erwin, Eren and Carla inhabited the living room. Levi sighed as he sunk down in the kitchen stool. He needed to be alone. That damn Auruo is trying to kill him and upsetting him was a way to do so.

Isabel only stared at Levi with her dark eyes, purring to herself as her head cocked slightly. She mewed loudly trying to capture his attention but failed. Again, she repeated her actions and again nothing. This time, she jumped up on his lap, using her claws to scratch at his shirt. She ran her paws along his shirt as if patting him to get his attention before she mewed loudly.

Okay, maybe he could have one thing to keep him busy. He smiled lightly, though his lips looked like a straight line more than a curved smile.

The man ran his hands along her coat, earning affectionate purrs from her.

"You're a spoiled shit. You always want my attention." In response, she placed her paw on his hand as if to bring it down.

Levi sighed, and looked at his car keys sitting next to a glass of ice water, a notebook and his phone. He thought for a moment. He looked at his keys then Isabel and finally said, "Come on, you're coming with me."

The cat looked up for a second, quickly processing his words and hopping off his lap, stretching her back legs as he snatched his keys off the counter and pocketed his phones.

Levi walked out the kitchen with Isabel in pursuit. When he opened his front door, Eren was already behind him with his questioning.

"Where are you going?"

"None of your fucking business." Eren looked at the cat who stared back at him with narrowed eyes. Jeez. Even the cat had scary eyes, ones that want to kill.

He looked back up. "Are you walking Isabel? I'll come with you."

"I don't need you to babysit me. Go sit your nosy ass down."

"Where are you going?" Eren asked again, he took a step closer but backed away when Isabel challenged his steps. "I'm going for a ride. I need to relax and being stuck inside here isn't helping."

"Then why are you taking Isabel?" The cat growled at Eren. The teen stuck his tongue out and before Isabel could make a warning attack, Levi scoped her up in his arms and held her close. "Because fuck you. See you later, you little shit."

"I'm still coming."

"What the fuck, why?" He asked irritated.

"Because fuck you." Eren said with a smile. Levi thought for a moment and shrugged. "Fine, bring your shitty ass. Just don't open your mouth about anything."

Eren nodded, zipping his jacket up and following behind Levi. They walked outside into the fall's cold air. It was halfway through November and if it was already this cold, December was going to be a killer.

Levi opened his car and got in first. When Eren was about to sit down, Levi stopped him.

"What do you think you're doing?"

"Sitting down, you old bat, what does it look like?"

"Sit your ass in the back."

"Why?"

Levi let Isabel go, and she happily sat in the passenger seat. She looked at Eren. And the resembles between a cat and Levi was fucking horrific. No. There should be a law restricting this. This was beyond fucking creepy. He's de-crusted his grandfather's big toe, seen Jean naked, he even had to kiss Ymir as a dare! But ended up with a broken arm and thank god, didn't kiss her because he would've been rotting in hell.

But this is the utmost creepiest thing he's ever witnessed in his life.

"Isabel sits up here. You can sit in the back." Levi said flatly, snapping Eren from his thoughts. He even pointed to the backseat and without a word - except for mutters of profanity and ranting- he crawled into the backseat and groaned.

Levi chuckled darkly and started his car. He pulled out of his driveway and made a B-dash for the community gates. When the gates opened, he pulled into the main road and began to drive towards the end of Sina.

"Hey, can we put down the roof?" Eren asked, his nose pressed up against the window watching the scenery pass by.

"You're just gonna complain,"

"No I won't, I promise I won't."

"...Alright. But say a word, and I'll hit the brakes and watch you fly." Isabel mewed loudly in agreement. She even turned around for a split second to catch a glimpse at Eren.

"Levi, you're cat's a demon."

"I taught her well." Levi pulled over and put his car in park. He moved a few latches and held the down button until the roof was completely down. Both boys shivered at the sudden change of air temperature. Levi took his car out of park and drove back onto the main road.

"Where are we going?" Eren asked, looking at Levi. The man glanced in the rear view mirror and shrugged.

"I don't know. I just needed to get out the house for a while."

"Is it because of-"

"Yes." The model said grimly. His words were sharp and gruff as he spoke. "It's because of today's events. That shouldn't have happened. It was supposed to be a decent meal with civilized adults, excluding Hanji. But Auruo couldn't keep his damn mouth shut and things escaladed quickly."

"I... I know..."

It fell silent for a moment and Levi said, "I'm sorry about all that."

"It's fine, I don't really care anyway."

"You should. That bastard is trying to bring you into a fued that's been going on for years."

"Why are you guys still fighting?" Eren couldn't resist asking. He calmly waited for Levi's response.

"That's just how things are. We're both immature. Plus he knows I still harbor feelings for Petra."

"Oh..."

"Its nothing serious. It's just... Guilt in a way."

"How is it guilt? Did you do something bad?! Is that why Auruo called you an abuser?!" Eren spit out quickly.

"Hell no. I didn't hurt Petra, Auruo just needs something to spew from that filthy mouth of his."

"Okay... Well then, why do you feel so guilty?"

"Its shouldn't be any of your business but I think you deserve to know before I try anything." Eren's eyes narrowed slightly and Levi took that as a sign to continue.

"He's still pissing himself over the fact I took her virginity and I was her first everything. I claimed Petra when he was clearly in love with her."

"Oh... Ohhh..." Levi noticed Eren's shoulders fell and his eyes darkened a little.

"That was a reason why I couldn't have sex with you last night. It was just a reminiscence of Petra."

"How come?" He asked, unintentionally bringing his knees up. He didn't seem offended. Eren looked somewhat interested so Levi chose his words carefully and continued. "Because it happened the same way. She came on too strong. The only difference was that I didn't let it happen last night. And we weren't in the front seat of my fucking car!"

"We could've went to the back seat..." Eren mumbled, avoiding locking eyes with Levi.

"We would've made a mess and I hope you like licking cum off leather cause I was going to make you do that when we were done."

"Sooo... You're into BDSM?" Eren asked slowly, with a growing smile.

"You said it, not me."

Eren laughed. Calmly, he pushed his hair from his eyes and looked at Levi. He sighed and leaned forward letting his head rest on Levi's shoulder.

"What are you thankful for? Really?"

Levi rustled Eren's hair and kissed his lips for a second. "How do you know I'm thankful for anything?"

"Because. You are. There's a reason you're being so affectionate. You would've pushed me away. Now tell me. Everything you're thankful for this year."

Levi rolled his eyes. "I'm feeling generous. I think you deserve something a little special," Levi took a quick breath. "Well, for starters, I'm thankful for Mikasa. Even though I didn't bother to say it, I am. She's all I have left from the past. I'm also thankful for Isabel-"

"You're thankful for your cat?!" Eren didn't mean to sound so surprised and he was ready for Levi's backlash. Instead, Isabel bitched at him. She scratched his hand twice and hissed at the teen.

"She fucking scratched me!" Eren cried, he rested his back against the back seat and looked st the irritated red scratch marks on his hand.

"Dont test her. She's just like me, not afraid to attack. Without her, my house would be dull and boring. Before I knew you she kept me company. Now shut up and listen you shit. Don't interrupt me."

Eren nodded and said a quiet "okay."

"I'm thankful for my job. My house. Um... Erwin. Without him, I'd still be in France struggling. And Hanji can go jump off a bridge for all I care. But I'd still feel a little sympathy for her. That's it."

"...Is that really it?"

"Yes."

"There's one last thing you're thankful for," he pulled over on the side of the street and put his car in park. Levi could feel a smile trying to tug at his lips but held his façade. He looked at Eren and pulled him onto his lap, gracefully locking their lips together. Eren sat uncomfortable on top of the model but didn't put up a fuss. Instead, he locked his arms around his neck deepening the affectionate act. And despite his hand was stinging from that little monster, he was distracted by the man on his lips to notice too much. Levi broke away for a second to say, "I'm thankful for you."

Eren nodded and smiled a lopsided goofy smile. "I know. I just wanted to hear you say it."

God, how could a person be so damn cute? Cute enough to make him forget everything. It wasn't just Eren's looks that made him cute. It was his personality that shone bright to Levi. Even though Eren's obdurate, headstrong and extremely temperamental, Levi couldn't ask for someone better.

"What about you? There's one last thing you mentioned vaguely." Levi said. Eren leaned back, rested his back lightly against the wheel.

"I'm grateful for you too. Even though I hate you."

Levi nodded. "I hate you too, you're a shitty brat. What more could I ask for?" They sat in silence for a while. Just letting everything settle and their thoughts pass by. Levi glanced down at Eren, slightly confused as the brat began to shift down to the floor.

"What the hell are you doing now?"

Eren shrugged, unbuckling Levi's belt and throwing it to the back. He then began to work on his pants. "I have a good idea,"

Levi shuddered as his cock popped out into the cool air. "Don't even fucking try. The roof's down and I'm pretty sure drivers can see us."

Eren rolled his eyes, he gripped Levi's length and stroked slowly. "Then do yourself a favor and put the roof back on."

"Why are y-you doing this?" Levi asked with a half smirk. "Not that I'm complaining, just why?" He began to do the procedures to place the top on and once it was on, he rolled his head back.

Eren's tongue finally met with Levi's length, slowly swirling around the head and sucking on it roughly before letting go with an audible pop.

Isabel sat aside only watching the sexual scene continue. After a while, she became bored with it and mewed.

Eren glanced over, his mouth half way down Levi's cock. He rolled his eyes and continued with his task at hand.

Meow.

...

Meow.

...

Meow.

"Isabel, will you shut up?!" Eren exclaimed, after his mouth broke contact with Levi. Precum mixed with Eren's saliva covered his lips.

Levi opened his eyes halfway and looked at Isabel who only started back blankly. He shuddered when Eren continued to suck on his length. But the model couldn't take his eyes of Isabel because she kept watching the situation. Maybe it wasn't such a good idea to bring Isabel.

Wait, no. Scratch that.

It wasn't a good idea to bring Eren cause Levi was pretty sure Isabel wouldn't give him a blowjob, and an amazing one at that. Levi couldn't lie. That brat may be talkative but in the end, his mouth really came useful.

"Wh-what do you wa-aaa-nt Isabel?" Levi asked in between moans, scratching behind her ear. The cat purred and rubbed her head against his hand.

"Hey don't be messing with the fucking cat when I'm down here!"

"Shut up, brat." Levi spit bitterly. Eren rolled his eyes and unlatched himself from Levi.

The man looked down and Eren rolled his eyes with his arms crossed. "We should get going. Its getting dark and I wanna head home."

Levi frowned and took his car out of park. "Aren't you gonna go in the back." Levi said it more like a statement then a question.

"No, I can't move."

"How the fuck am I supposed to drive? I know you're stupid but seriously, you can't be that dumb."

"I'm stuck. What the hell don't you understand about that? You have to come out the car so I can get up. And that wouldn't look so good, would it?" Eren asked slyly.

Levi rolled his eyes. "You'll be the one in the shitty position," he used his thumb to clean excess precum from his lip and mumbled, "You're the one on your knees."

"Fuck you."

"Aren't you already?"

"Not exactly. It just a blowjob, nothing serious."

"Fucking manwhore," Levi muttered. "I didn't know you were an expert in this shit."

"Just drive so that demon can stop staring at us." Eren said with a shutter.

Levi glanced at Isabel and took his car out of park. "Don't move too much." Levi advised. He eased on the gas and got back into traffic. This felt weird. His cock was fully exposed and it took everything to try to get his mind off the fact one: His dick was aching for more attention from the little brunette shit in between his legs. Two: His cat was staring knives into Eren's body. And three: He really wanted to fuck Eren. His major concern in this current predicament, his penis.

He listened to Eren shuffle uncomfortably, trying to move as little as possible yet he wanted to get out that cramped area.

So when Levi reached a red light, he pushed his seat back a little. Enough for Eren to shift and get comfortable and once Eren was contented better between Levi's legs, he wasted no time to get back to work.

The model moaned louder than he wanted to. He gripped the wheel and pressed on the gas quickly. Trying his best to keep his eyes open when Eren's tongue worked wonders on his length. His tongue slid perfectly along his shaft, occasionally nipping on the sensitive nerves and playing with the slit. And dear god, when Eren played with his balls...

"A-aha... E-eren..." Levi purred his name. Letting the brat's name roll off his tongue like dark silk. So close... He was so close...

"Faster," he moaned raspily. It was hard to keep his eyes open. His steel, once unemotional eyes watered and his vision became blurred as he finally let go in Eren's mouth. Listening to the teen nearly choke at the sudden release of semen.

Levi let his head roll back, ignoring the road. With one hand, he intertwined his fingers with Eren's hair, forcing the teen forward, using his mouth to ride out the rest of his orgasm.

Eren groaned around his cock, letting the vibrations relax and pleasure Levi.

The model glanced down darkly, seductively. Utterly pleased with Eren's work. And in return the teen, the teen stared up with tired eyes.

A loud screech. Follows by car horns and moments later, a loud police siren. Levi's eyes snapped open and immediately, he glanced in his side mirror and then his rear view mirror to see a cop following close behind him. He looked down Eren who stared at him with dilated pupils.

"Is he behind us?!" Eren asked somewhat hushed. Levi stared forward in case the cop behind him could see his face.

"Yes," Levi mumbled. He pulled onto the side of the road for what felt like the four hundredth time this hour. He pushed his seat forward. At least enough for his exposed length to be covered as well as the brunette.

Levi put his car in park, put down his window and turn his car off. He looked into his side mirror to see the cop getting out his car and beginning to walk to Levi's window.

Levi looked over at Isabel and scratched under her chin. When the officer came to the window, he looked over at him like nothing happened.

"Good day, officer."

"Good day for me, indeed. Not for you." Levi wanted to roll his eyes but had to resist.

"Do you realized your faults?"

Levi thought for a moment. What were his faults? Letting Eren come for the ride and blow him in the front seat, bringing Isabel who wouldn't stop being a creep... He heard cars blowing... Maybe he didn't yield? Honestly, he wasn't paying attention because he had a shit ton of stress lifted off his shoulders. But he couldn't explain all this to the officer.

So he went along with a simple "No."

Meanwhile, Eren couldn't help but think. What would Levi do if their positions were flipped? He thought for a moment, staring at his softening length and shrugged. He was cramped, that was for sure. But there was some space Levi left and Eren made do. He moved as best as he could, wrapping his hand around Levi's lenth, giving it a few gentle strokes before wrapping his tongue around it.

Levi's fist clenched but his face remained unphased.

"You ran two red lights and almost caused an accident,"

Levi nodded biting his lip. Eren picked up his pace, smirking darkly to himself. This was going to fun.

Levi groaned unintentionally. Immediately, he shut his mouth. The man only stared at Levi, narrowing his eyes slowly.

"Sir, are you alright?"

"Y-yes," he cleared his throat awkwardly before he spoke again. "I'm fine. Just perfect."

"Riiight. May I have your license and registration?" Levi nodded quickly. His hand reached into his pocket and he pulled out the needed information.

Eren tongued Levi's slit, savoring the taste of his boyfriend's precum. He slurped, a little too loud for Levi's taste.

"Eren stop!" He signaled through a cough.

"What was that?" The officer asked, staring at Levi's licence.

"H-huh? Oh nothing. I'm just a little sick- Ah~!"

"Are you okay, sir?"

"Yes, why?"

"Your... Your face is turning red." For fucks sake...

"Like i said be-ah...fore. I'm sick." Levi lied, his hips bucked forward, launching deeper into Eren's mouth making him cough a little. And as revenge, the teen used his skillful tongue to lick underneath Levi's head. Licking and sucking the bludgeing veins giving them extra consideration.

Levi leaned his head forward, setting it on the wheel. He mumbled threateningly, "I swear to fuck when this is over I'm fucking your shitty ass."

Eren's mouth came up, using his hands to stimulate the already hardened length. "I'd love to see you try."

"Mr Ackerman?" Levi looked up quick. "Yes sir? And just Levi."

"Its a safety hazard to sit that far up on the wheel. How can you maneuver properly?"

"I-its easier than you think..." He responded cooly.

"Sir, may you please step out the vehicle."

"No."

"Yes." Eren said lowly.

"Shut the fuck up." Levi spit bitterly.

"Excuse me?" The officer asked. It took all of Eren's strength not to bust out into rapturous laughter. He chuckled softly as Levi tried to put up his defenses.

"No no no no no no no. No. Not you. I was just... Nice weather we're having.…?" Dear god... The officer might as well put the handcuffs on Levi and take him away.

"Sir, please exit your vehicle. I will not ask again."

"I... I can't. I..I'm...ahh..mmm..." He moaned in his throat. He bit his lip and hurried his head in his hands, moaning raspily as he did so. When he was done, he looked up and said, "I'm over...overprotective..."

"Of what exactly?"

"His dick," Eren mumbled darkly. "Sadly he won't have much of it left when I'm done."

"C-can I just have my ticket so I can go? I-I...I'm late for a meeting and-"

"On Thanksgiving?"

"...My boss is a d-dic-"_Levi paused for a second, choosing his words better. "Douchebag..."

"I'll be right back," When the officer left, Levi through his head back and moaned loudly, letting himself release again in Eren's mouth. He let his eyes roll back and close, smiling slightly. He was holding back his orgasm until the cop left and he did one hell of a good job too. He was afraid if he didn't release soon, he was going to explode. And it was a good thing he came unexpectedly. It shut the little shit on his knees up.

The cop came back and handed Levi back his information with a slightly phased look. "I've decided to let you go. Just this once since it's a holiday. But you're still getting a ticket. But believe me, if I ever catch you driving recklessly, I'll don't hesitate to cuff you and out you behind bars."

"That's fine..." Levi moaned, his head lolled towards the man with a small smirk.

"W-would you like a ride home? You don't look too good son." The officer said slightly concerned.

Levi started his car and said, "Oh don't worry, I'm fine. Really fine. I'm being taken care of as we speak."

"...Excuse me?"

"Have a good day~"

The policeman nodded and walked back to his car. Once he drove off, Levi pushed his seat back and pulled Eren from his legs. Eren bit his lip to hold back his laughter. But he stopped when he was placed over Levi's softening, wet length. It felt strange, sitting clothed over him. And Eren couldn't help but think something bad was going to happen.

"Eren," Levi said lowly; almost too calmly for his usual persona. His arm skidded around his waist while the other played with the button holding his jeans. "Why do you look so scared? Just a moment ago you thought it was fucking peachy to pull that little stunt."

"It was a joke..."

"A joke you'll have to pay for."

Once his pants were undone, Levi focused on his upper entity of clothes. He stripped him of his jacket, followed by his shirt, leaving him in nothing but his bare flesh.

"What happened to, I can't have sex with you?" Eren asked. Levi's hands roamed over his nipple. Tweaking and pulling at the small nubs, leaning forward occasionally to lick and taste them.

"I've changed my mind. I'll go back on my word just once to get back at you. And don't think this'll be the last time."

Eren rolled his eyes and pushed Levi away from him. Before Levi could protest, Eren crawled into the backseat and pulled off the rest of his clothes. Simply, he placed his hands around his length and stroked away quick. He looked at Levi with his eyes narrowed stubbornly.

Levi glanced in the rear view mirror before he decided to also crawl in the back. He sat opposite of his brat and sat against the door with his arms crossed. He watched Eren with an emotionless face as he did the deed.

"Why the fuck...a-are you staring at me?"

"You're pathetic," the model replied blandly. "You're really afraid of losing your virginity you'll do it yourself?"

"I'm not doing...it m-m-myself!" Eren yelled between pants. Levi grabbed his wrist and pulled it off his cock, quickly replacing Eren's mediocre strokes, with slower and much dedicated ones. It's a fucking waste when you're trying fuck yourself at the speed of light. And it isn't sex if Levi's not doing it for him.

"T-this isnt- ah! Fair!"

Levi laughed darkly, kissing along Eren's neck and inhaling his scent. His teeth nipped along thin flesh and he couldn't help but suckle on the teen's neck. "Nothing's fair," Levi whispered cooly on his neck. He sucked hard. Mixing between suck, biting and kissing the one targeted area, earning soft pants from Eren. "Its called life, brat. Deal with it."

The model's hands roamed up Eren's shirt. He felt Eren's toned stomach, quickly latching onto his nipple; pinching and pulling at the delicate flesh. "You want to be a little shit, I'll treat you like one."

The boy's legs moved up unintentionally, and Levi un-attahced himself from his neck. Admiring the varying bruising he left on his fragile skin.

He stopped his actions, fixing his posture so he could get a better look at Eren from above. "Hm. This is boring if you ask me." He looked at Eren's cock, taking it in his mouth and humming around the sensitive organ, the same way Eren did it to Levi.

Except, Levi moved at a much agonizing pace, listening to the boy pant faster and feeling Eren's fingers intertwine with his hair. This was a brutal game and this is the worst -or maybe the best- Levi has ever treated him. The model's mouth played tricks with Eren's dick and as he spread his legs further, he felt more and more the need to let go. This man was skilled with his mouth, that's for sure. It made Eren wonder if Petra actually has a penis and that's why Levi was so gifted in it. But he quickly let the thought go and cursed himself for thinking like that. But he didn't drop the fact Levi's mouth was beyond brilliant.

The way he worked with Eren's dick and made him want to scream. Eren's body twisted and turned until with one a large moan and exhale, he let go of himself in Levi's mouth.

Levi's eyes widened slightly, tasting the sudden salty stickiness flood his mouth. But reluctantly, he swallowed with no complaint and wiped his lips free of semen.

"That's fucking disgusting," the man groaned. He looked down at the heavy panting teen as he tried his best to regain his breath. Eren's eyes were tightly shut and his cheeks were flushed yet painted a light pink.

Levi smirked softly and placed his semen covered fingers inside Eren's mouth. And without warning he sucked happily.

"I didn't tell you to suck," Levi said bitterly, taking his fingers from Eren's mouth.

"I do... I don't giv... A fuck..." He responded weakly. He smirked softly at Levi and said, "More."

Don't get too cocky you little shit," His took the lubricated fingers and wet his puckered entrance before sliding two skilled fingers inside, moving it slowly on and out.

It felt strange, feeling something inside him making him wither underneath Levi. He kept moving, shifting his lower body to adjust to the new feel and after about five minuets, he moaned when Levi exploded his inner cavern.

Levi, honestly, was getting bored with this. He wanted more, his cocked ached for more than just his fingers exploring inside Eren. That wasn't enough to satisfy him. He wanted to be inside Eren. He wanted to claim Eren as his own and fuck his pretty little brains out.

He slipped a third finger in, earning a shocked shriek from the boy. Levi didn't take his time, he moved his fingers at a moderate pace so he could hurry this along. He scissored Eren's entrance and the teen pushed himself up. "L-L-evi, take it easy..." He said lowly. The man didn't listen to his beck in call and did what his sexual drive said to do.

Pull out and place his cock to the teen's innocent region. "You're already slick enough to inside," he did his three fingers in with ease, fingering him a few last times.

He place the tip in and already Eren's body tensed up dangerously. He stomach quenched as he slid in, his hands gripped onto Levi's back, clawing to get a firm grip and his eyes squeezed shut had tears threatening to come. "I-i-it hurts, come on Levi, stop!"

"Relax," The man moaned. He grabbed purchase on Eren's hips and pulled his slender physique onto his length. "You're tense and its only going to hurt more if you don't relax. You're tight as it is now."

"...I..."

"Before I go in deeper, take a deep breath and relax."

"C-cant..."

Levi didn't have time for this. He took a firm grip on Eren's length and gave it steady, tight pumps. He calmed down immediately, replacing it with long, heated moans that almost drive Levi over the edge. He was too cute, so innocent; absolutely pure and he wanted to change that. Take every last bit of Eren's pureness and make sure he was experienced. And experienced only for him.

Levi slid in without warning, and the brat tensed for a moment and immediately let it go. Eren was tighter than Petra... And most definitely any woman. It would be easy to damage something or severly injure him. And that was the last thing Levi wanted. But he had to admit, as tight as he was, he was surprisingly supple inside.

"Ahgnn-mh-" he sounded like a kitten with his lewd mewls. He continued to shift uncomfortably, trying to adjust to the new feeling pulsing pleasure though his ass. But that pleasure was being overruled by pain when Levi started to move himself in and out of Eren's entrance.

The pain. The tight, unbearble pain that escalated though his body was unexplainable for words. But soon, those agonizing groans were replaced with sounds of bliss, erotic, hypnotizing bliss.

Eren moaned rocking his hips back and forth, rocking himself with Levi's perfect rythem.

"Doss it hurt?"

"Not anymore." Eren was surprised by the steadiness in his voice despite the fact he turned over, face down and moving his hips against the man.

God the brat looked too cute, with his half lidded sea green eyes possessed by lust. Levi slammed Eren's hips against his cock, allowing his moans to flow free from his mouth. His fingers dug into the milky skin covering Eren's hips and waist, leaving red irritated marks on the creamy flesh.

As time pushed on, it felt like Levi's length was being devoured by Eren's tight passage. He fit perfectly inside the teen as he loosened him. Breaking him till Levi's length could slip in easily and out, as if Eren was made for him.

"You're a horny little shit, aren't you? You're ass is just sucking me in." His hands moved along Eren's ass, playing with the perfectly shaped cheeks.

"You're so beautiful, Eren," Levi said, his voice made shivers run down Eren's spine and in return he replied with soft, shaken, "Fuck you."

Levi went in deeper till his adnominal was touching Eren's backside. He waited for a moment to let Eren rest and then pulled out and slammed back in. "The beauty of ruining a virgin..."

"I-I'm not ru-ah! Fuck, right there!"

"...What?" Levi zoned out, utterly confused by his unexpected cry.

"Again, dammit! T-t-that spot, hit it again..." Levi looked down and angled himself, slamming into Eren's sweet spot watching the boy arch his back erotically. Each repeated thrust was met by a quivering sensation in the hot pleats of flesh enveloping him.

_God, this brat is going to fucking kill me thought_ Levi, his brain already muddled with pleasure.

Sweat poured from his brow. Feelings were so overpowering he couldn't stop himself. "Ahhh-" Eren gasped and moaned, his hands sliding along Levi's arms.

The warm feeling inside Eren made him shiver, causing him to set his hips in motion to sync Levi. Eren bent over and tried to kiss him. But Levi turned his face away and pushed his down, resting his hand on his chest.

"Not now."

"You don't want to?" Eren shut his eyes tightly. A tear squeezed out the corner of his eye as his insides tightened. Levi wiped the tear from Eren's cheek. He then creased Eren's hair behind his ear and touched his cheek, trying to comfort the younger male.

"We've already kissed ourselves stupid. But if you want then-"

"N-no..do it-later-do it later." Eren pleaded between ragged pants. For an answer, he kissed Eren's forehead and hit his sweet spot one last time. Eren let out a pitched cry and arched his back. He flipped over gently to rest his sore back. Grappling together on the seat, Eren's head slipped off the edge of the cushion. Levi kissed that exposed the white throat hard enough to leave a mark. Feeling this, Eren hauled himself back on the seat, grabbing hold of his smooth, sweaty thighs and lifting them up. Levi placed his hands on his thighs pushing the up and almost against his chest, adding extra weight to the already numb body. Levi repeatedly thrust into Eren deeper and deeper almost to end of his sexual innuendo.

The sweat streaming from his forehead dripped off the tip of his chin and fell onto Eren's pale stomach. Levi groaned uncontrollably.

Waves of electric pleasure shot through him, delivering pulsing, arousing shocks as he ejaculated again and again. "Ngh! F-fuck! Le-levi!" Raising a thin, keening cry, Eren drenched his lower abdomen. Levi groaned throatily as he released warm, sticky cum inside him. They sat there for a moment, Levi continuing to pound into the abused hole as he finished the rest of his orgasm.

Slowly, he gently withdrew from him. Cum connecting them; runing the seats.

The teen's body trembled from the many orgasms he had received. His damp stomach undulated. Fierce breaths escaped his mouth as Levi turned to him and whispered, "Can..Can I kiss you now?" A goofy-loopsided weak smile rose to Eren's lips.

He pulled Levi to him, wrapping his arms around his neck and kissed him warmly again and again. Their lips felt warm together, creating a hot passion. Tongue intertwining with each other, tasting their explict love-hate relationship. But in the moment, they felt immense passion for one another.

Levi broke away, his tongue missing Eren's taste. He hauled Eren on his lap and said, "I won." His voice was deep, arousing and highly erotic.

"W-w-won what?" He asked trying to regain his lost breath.

"You're so fucking cute." Their lips connect again, their tongues battling for dominance but Eren was determined to win.

Levi opened his eyes a little, wanting to see Eren's cute, cum covered, overly sexualized face. But out the corner of his eye, he got a bad feeling in his stomach and he gently pushed Eren away.

He didn't have any words. Sitting in the middle, simply observing their mischievous act was Isabel. Watching unamused. Emotionless. And bored.

"S-she was there... The entire time?!" Eren's voice was a lot higher than he wanted to be and his ears turned red. "I told you that cat is a demon!"

In response, she simply mewed then purred.

* * *

A/N: I really love Isabel after writing this. Ugh... Writing this was so difficult. For some reason, I had trouble writing yaoi yet it played out so perfectly in my mind. So I had to rewrite this chapter four times and im really pleased with this one. It has a little bit of everything so I really like it.

Please don't ask me how the whole blow job while driving thing is possible because I just thought of it... So... Let's just say underneath the wheel is big enough for Eren to suck Levi.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for the reviews, follows and favorites! You guys make my day and I hope you all know it. :3

Next chapter will be the photoshoot and going over what their going to do for Celeb Feast. Their performing, of course but I'm not too sure on what song. I want them to probably dance twice. Maybe.

So if you have a song that's somewhat slow yet upbeat and sexual, please tell me cause that'd help a lot ^_^

Thanks my little sugar cubes for reading!

Review Response:

Hi xDDDDD: No, Mikasa x Marco isn't canon, don't worry xD I ship Jearco too. But I only have Marco like Mikasa because Jean likes her. It's just a random thought that I went with :)

piscesgirl123: Aww, thank you :3

TheSwordHolder99: I can't wait to write another dance rehearsal (well, with the help of Azania) because I love making Eren awkward.

Nee Kuchiki TT3TT: You need to write some M Ereri fanfics cause with some of that you listed, you got me pretty interested.

xKireyy: I tried. I tried to steer clear of a Simon Citrus song but nothing else seemed to work so I'm like fuck it. I'll do this song. And if you get your friends to read it, I'll really be grateful :)

Hibary-Hiwatari: And what we've all been waiting for has been done! Well, I will be writing it again in future chapters. Thanks.

ella343e: Its official. Vase rape is a thing. And Levi's a candidate.

Beloved Nightmare Union: Hopefully, I explained everything in chapter thirteen. Thanks btw!

Mermaidhorse: I think I was being too mean to Jean. Thanks for the comment


	16. Chapter Fifteen: Chocolate Marble Cake

The lower pain shooting through Eren's lower back and bottom... Was unbearable.

There were many things that pissed him off at the current moment. And many things he can nitpick at to complain about.

First would be the fact the building was fucking cold. Whoever put the air conditioning on cool instead of putting on the heater like a human being is a clear fucking idiot.

It's almost December. How hard is it to switch in the heater inside the Garrison building? Oh, wait, that'd make too much damn sense. But it gave him a reason to wear his mother's scarf -which thankfully was a dark blur color- and keep his jacket zipped up to hide the sexual blemishes harboring around his neck and upper body.

Speaking of "blemishes" from yesterday's activities, the pain that circulated in his lower half. Especially in his... Now sensitive ass... He wished he could go back in time and stop the whole thing from happening because now he understood why Levi said "You might regret it."

Thrid, he couldn't sleep at all last night. He must have drowned half the bottle of painkillers last night but the pain still shot through his back when he moved. He couldn't fall asleep because of it and ended up staring around in darkness uncomfortably until his brain finally shut down and he fell asleep. But he ended up falling asleep late and fifteen minuets late for this stupid meeting.

And lastly, the fact everybody kept rambling on in the meeting. Oh and speaking of a meeting, who the hell holds it the day after a holiday? They couldn't get one day off and do this stupid thing tomorrow? Marco didn't have to work today. Neither did Armin and he works at the local library.

But I guess all that filled Levi's, Erwin's and the Garrison's schedule was work, work, and more work.

Eren's eyes glanced around sleepily, trying to pick on the conversation being thrown around the table.

"Celeb Feast is in three weeks."

"We're well aware of that Pixis." Levi said, trying not to sound rude but failing miserably.

"You two will only have three weeks to learn a number. You may have to learn two dances for Promos and the main night. Meaning tomorrow, eight o clock sharp I except to see you two at the dance center in Sina."

"Don't you think I have other things planned?" Levi asked.

"Don't think I forgot about that photo. Levi, I thought you'd be a little more mature about things." Pixis said, pinching the bridge of his nose with a soft smile.

"I think what we should be saying is, we never thought you two would actually kiss." Erwin cut in, a joking smirk weaved on his lips as he looked up from the job description he was reading from Garrison.

"It was a bullshit kiss. Just like you said, we have to keep the flames burning or else they'll die out. Along with the Garrison and Recon Agency."

"Yes, but the Garrison has other celebrities out there. Remember that, Levi." Pixis warned.

"Yes, but remember the contract we signed, agreeing to collaborate with Garrison? Eren and I lose fans, both Agencies lose profit and recognition."

"Someone's irritable," Rico mumbled with a roll of her eyes.

"I'm telling the truth. If you can't stand me, please get the fuck out. I have no intentions on filtering my mouth and actions." Levi responded bitterly.

"Well, just remember one thing. You can do things without acting like a rebellious teen. That was immature and uncalled for." Erwin said.

"I couldn't give a damn. It's already been done. Move on and let's hurry this thing along so we can get the job done. I'm not looking to spend my entire day here." Levi looked at the untouched manilla folder placed in front of him and opened it.

Eren sat back, staring blankly at the folder placed in front of him. Not knowing what to do with it. He barely knew what was going on.

"Eren, are you alright?" Pixis shook Eren's shoulder softly to get his attention. The teen looked up and shrugged.

"Yeah, sure. J-just a little tired..." He half lied. Levi looked up, now interested in the situation.

"Would you like some coffee? It'd wake you up." Pixis offered.

Levi smiled softly. He leaned towards Eren and whispered, "Or would you like some more of me?"

"Levi, I swear-" Eren whispered.

"I can't believe you're actually tired from that. You really are pathetic."

"Fuck off." He mumbled back. He turned to Pixis, using his free hand to push Levi away. "And yes, coffee would be good."

Rico nodded and walked out to fetch Eren his beverage.

"Now, back room. Downstairs on the fifth floor in room 508 is the photo session. I have Petra waiting for you two and setting everything up. She'll be your photographer today."

Eren was actually pleased to hear Petra was the one snapping the shots. He was comfortable around her. She wasn't pushy nor demanding and she was really encouraging. And who knows what's being set up for Eren and Levi downstairs? What does the Garrison have in mind for Celeb Feast? And if Eren or Levi didn't want to do it, then she would accept it and move onto the next thing she had in mind that she knows they won't have trouble doing.

He glanced over at Levi who didn't look the least bit phased to hear that. Especially everything that was thrown in his face from Auruo yesterday. But he remember Levi saying why let something childish come in the way of something that gives him the necessities to live?

...

Wow... To think one night... One misunderstanding, just one walk home and a little dark humor and a false, misleading picture could lead to all of this?

He was sitting in an office with some of the biggest, well known faces in Sina and around the world.

He's a popular trend on the internet and he can barely log into a social site!

Hell, he's basically dating and just banged one of media's best model and possibly a social sex symbol in which he could hve found any girl. He could have gotten a beautiful Brazilian woman, or a busty blonde or a woman with many curves and luscious lips. Or someone who at least has the ability to bear his children!

But no. He settled on Eren.

Why? Only God knows.

They could have ended this thing and moved on before this spirals out of control. And what if that happens? What if it's all chocolates and roses one day and the next they're throwing grenades and have each other at gun point? That seems like their relationship. That was the only was to describe it.

More or less bittersweet. Love-hate. Wanting to kill each other yet wanting to love each other.

Eren looked up when a medium cup of coffee was placed in front of him. With a small cup of sugar and creamer.

"Thank you..." He muttered. He watched as Pixis gathered his things as well as Erwin and stood. Levi also began to grab his belongings.

Eren added sugar to the drink and looked at the man next to him. "Where are we going?"

"To room 508," Levi responded calmly.

"Why?"

"Were you not listening, shitstain? We have a job to do and the quicker we get this done, the quicker I... Never mind, come, let's go."

**~•~**

Eren shuffled gently behind the group, Levi's arm wrapped gently around his waist as support. Once they were in room 508, Eren and Levi greeted Petra. She hugged Levi. But when she hugged Eren, he let out a sharp high pitched cry.

"Are you alright? I didn't think I hugged you too hard."

"N-no. You didn't hurt me. I'm just having a little bit of... Back problems..."

Eren set his coffee down on a nearby table next to a small chair.

"Back problems? Did you sleep bad? Or did you hit your back against something?" She asked. She turned Eren around and rubbed his back earning painful cries from the teen.

"I s-slept bad... And the day before Thanksgiving I did hit my back against Levi's counter. B-but it didn't hurt that bad after a while, I actually forgot."

"So you just slept bad?"

"Y-yes?"

"... I have some rub and medicine in my purse, but you'll fall asleep in about three hours."

"That's alright. I just want this pain to end. I took some painkillers last night but-"

"Don't worry, you'll feel better after." Petra left for a brief moment to retrieve her purse and ran some heated rub along Eren's lower back and gave him two pills to help with the pain. She also have him some water.

"Now, the rub should be dry in no time. So you should head behind the stage and get dressed."

"Thank you."

"Anytime." She said with a bright smile.

**~•~**

Petra was right. His back did stop hurting and the pain on his backside was starting to subside but it wasn't as bad as before. He headed around back and into the wardrobe.

He stripped down quickly, taking his pants off with extra caution because he had to bend down but somehow managed.

But when he looked at the clothing rack he realized it was almost as naked as him.

The only thing that sat on the rack was black Calvin Klein underwear, a simple white button up shirt, black pants, a belt and a black tie. God how he hated ties...

Eren stood slightly confused, staring at the clothing on the rack. Maybe it was a wardrobe malfunction. A tug came from the curtain's and a head poked through. "Oi, Eren, what the fuck's taking you so long?"

Eren turned, startled by Levi's intrusion. Eren noticed Levi was wearing the same thing. Maybe it wasn't a wardrobe mistake after all.

"At least knock, you old pervert! I could have been naked!"

Levi rolled his eyes. "Oh please, like that's such a big deal now. I was just making sure you didn't go bat shit insane from the coffee. I'm not one to give children caffeine." Levi stepped inside and turned to Eren.

"I'm not a child anymore, I work at a coffee shop for fucks sakes! And get the hell out, I'm getting dressed."

"And its taking you more than three days to get ready."

"Don't over exaggerate. Or maybe you're not and it's from your medication. I heard taking too much could make you delusional."

"Delusional how, exactly?" Levi asked, taking a step forward and lacing his arms around Eren.

"You're delusional because you think I'm letting you fuck me again," Eren pushed Levi away and pulled down the white button up shirt. He threw it around himself and began to button it up quickly. "Better go entertain yourself in front of the computer because we're not doing that again."

Levi scoffed and fixed Eren's collar. He ran his hands along Eren's torso to smooth out the small wrinkles in the shirt. "You're stubborn until you break. You say one thing but do the other; you go back on your word and your emotions will cloud your mind and take over your rational thinking. It's cute that you think we're not gonna sex again. Really."

"Egotistical bastard."

"You used a big word. I should take you out for ice cream for that accomplishment." Levi said teasingly. Before Eren could retort, Levi placed a kiss on his lips.

"I hate you."

"You always say that,"

"Yeah, well, its true," Eren pulled his underwear from the hanger and his pants. "Turn around for a second."

"Why?"

"I have to change and I don't want you to get any ideas." Levi rolled his eyes and complied with Eren's request. "Me get ideas? Do I need to bring up yesterday's stunt?"

"Shut up." Eren deadpanned with a cracked, somewhat pitched voice. The shuffling of fabric was heard. Once his boxers were on, he pulled his pants on quick, buttoning them and adjusting them more snuggly on his hips.

"You can turn around now."

Eren then put his belt on and buckled it to the first notch. He then pulled down his tie and sighed in irritation. Great. First Levi had to come waltzing in here to insult him and now he was going to get defeated by a tie. Like always.

Eren threw his tie around his neck and did the loop thingy and pulled it then put it through the hole and... Wait no... Scratch that. Put it around his neck and cross the tie over then under then... No... You have to put it around your neck, Eren knew that but...

As he tied the god forsaken professional article of clothing, he mumbled under his breath somewhat audible to Levi who sat back unamused and not surprised by the scene in front of him. It sounded like a stupid language the brat made up when he was six while sitting in the middle of social studies class. It was a mix of unidentifiable words, profanity, angered grunts and the occasional, "I fucking hate this shit."

"...Are you illiterate?" Levi asked simply. His voice was flat and unemotional. But he demanded an answer.

"Hell no!"

"Then please, explain yourself. I would love to hear your excuse for getting your tie caught on your belt buckle."

Eren growled, tugging at the tie until it finally let go of his belt. He then shoved the tie into Levi's chest. "Here,"

"Here what?"

"C-can you help me?"

"No."

"What? Why?!"

Levi shrugged nonchalantly and responded cooly. "You hate me. Remember?"

Really? He's seriously going to act like a four-year old debating against his mother? And Levi says Eren acts like a child. Well maybe, but at least he doesn't look like one.

"So what? You hate me too!"

"Yes, but I'm not asking for your help. That's a little selfish if you ask me. One moment you stab me in the back the next you come crawling back needing my help."

"You're one to talk. You threw me into a water fountain and the next day you're in my ass!" Eren shouted.

"Shut the hell up, will you? Calm your angered ass down before you give yourself a stroke and I'll leave your ass here. And damn, could you be any louder? You might as well get a fucking megaphone and announce, "Levi and I had sex!" From the rooftop."

"But its true!"

"And if you killed somebody would you let the entire world know?"

"No."

"Exactly, now shut the hell up."

"Just help me, please?"

"No."

"What will it take?"

"I'll help you when you prove you're a male."

"What the fuck is that supposed to mean?! You know I'm a boy!"

Levi shrugged, throwing the tie around Eren's neck. "Yeah, but it tasted like plastic if you ask me."

"You're such a bitter little man."

"Mhm. And you're hardheaded and impulsive. Oh and stupid, childish, immature, and a brat."

"But I'm your brat." Eren reminded lowly, not losing the angered tone in his voice.

"That's probably the smartest thing you've said all day."

* * *

Petra moved around the perimeter of the dark gray background like a pro on coffee, adjusting the camera lenses, shouting commands at workers and figuring out which angle worked best. Even though the first shot was always a test shot.

"Hm... Aha!" She said with a snap of her fingers. She paced quickly to the next room and within seconds peaked her head out through the door. "Eren, Levi, follow me."

Both boys followed into the extremely small room. It was a compact room with little space and could only hold about ten to fifteen people at max. But there was a comfy, chair set up in front of a fair-sized rounded window. The top was rounded by the sides were squared with black lace curtains draping from the sides. The window let in a tremendous amount of light unlike the first room where the gray background was.

Petra's camera was brought inside the room and she set it up. Testing different zooms, angles, proportions, ratios, and so forth.

"Hm..." She hummed, standing up straight and looking at the two males. She looked at Eren and then Levi.

"Levi, go ahead and take a seat... Alright, move over to the left a little, perfect." She looked into her camera to make sure Levi was lined up perfectly with the center. "Alright, now... How about your put your hands behind your hair, make it look like your moving it along the back of your head."

"Like this?"

"Yes, but relax a little."

"Petra, what do I do?" Eren asked slowly. She looked up from her camera and said, "Just sit back for now. Once I get the first couple of shots it'll be your turn. "

Eren nodded and took a few steps back. He closed the door and took a seat against the door.

"Levi, hold that pose, alright. But relax your shoulders. You look tense and we want the opposite." When the man took her words into consideration, she snapped the photo and scanned it.

"Can I move?"

"No, not yet... That one was lovely, but I really need you to relax a little more." She took the camera stand and moved it closer in the back of Levi, closing in on the screen. Once she took the picture, she instructed Levi to remove his shirt. The first time halfway down his back and the next fully topless.

Eren's jaw nearly dropped seeing a tattoo engraved in Levi's skin. It looked like... Wings... Beautifully painted wings. Something that Eren's never seen before. Plus he never thought Levi would ever get a tattoo. Levi was the type of person who'd say tattoos are tacky and shallow or some shit like that. But seeing the tattoo, it made Eren want to figure out the tattoo's symbolism. What was the meaning behind it? Why did Levi get a tattoo? What made him want one? And more Importantly, why that one? What made him think of something as modest yet expressive as that?

But trying to decipher Levi's reasoning for such action would take too long to figure out and too much brain power since his thoughts could continue on forever when it came to Levi and his decisions.

Levi repeated the pose. Eren took a note on how the wings seemed to spread out and move up and down depending on how he moved his body. So while his arms were up, the wings copied the direction and made it look like the wings were trying to spread and open or as if he was trying to fly.

A shutter sound and a quick bright light. Petra nodded approvingly as she clicked through the few photos she took.

The first part of the session continued on. Eren sat towards the camera with his legs crossed and his palm on his chin with a soft smile on his face at the camera. He also took one with him leaning back, placing his weight on his arms as he leaned back on them with his dress shirt unbuttoned. He held a seductive naive smirk while his eyes were narrowed.

"Hey, Eren,"

"Yes?"

"How should I say this...?" She muttered to herself. "You're neck."

"What?"

She walked closer instead of responding. With one hand she tilted Eren's head to the side and with the neck, she ran her fingers along with dark lovebites.

"Your hickies." Levi said with a smirk. "Remember?"

Eren's face flushed and he pushed Petra away softly. He stood and covered them. "Was it visible in the shots?"

"The first one, no. You're shirt collar was blocking it. But when you unbuttoned your shirt it-"

"Fuck," he groaned. He ran his hands along them one more time. "I-I'm sorry. I forgot about it..."

Petra nodded and leaned forward to his ear. "So it's not because you slept bad?"

"...No..."

"Well who's the lucky lady? Can we meet her anytime soon?" She asked with a smile.

Eren snuck a quick glance at Levi and responded, "She's a lot closer than you think. You've already met "her."

"Oh... Is it Mikasa?"

"No! No, no, it's not."

"Then who is it?"

"Hey, you know. We have to get this photo shoot thing done. Because there's... Someplace... I have...to be?" His face was warm with embarrassment. He must have looked like a thrown around tomato to Petra. He knew his ears were red, just like his cheeks.

"I understand. And don't worry, I'll cover those right up." Petra left the room for a moment and Eren and Levi were left in a thickening silence. Eren didn't look into Levi's eyes because he knew if he did, he would probably get a bullet through the heart.

When Petra came back, she had about 5 to 6 different make up products. She simply placed the makeup on the bed and ordered Eren to sit. The procedure took about fifteen minuets to hide all visable marks. She used 2 different correctors, foundation and concealer. She covered the ones around his neck and covering his chest. "You should tell your girlfriend to take it easy next time. She definitely left her mark."

"I know I did." Levi mumbled.

"Hm?" Petra hummed.

"Nothing. I just said she must really take good care of Eren."

The teen rolled his eyes and ignored his comment all together. Even though on the inside his heart fluttered a little. It's not everyday he hears affection words from the older man. Even though it was only 2% true. The other 98% is a mixture of inappropriate jokes, sarcasm, anger and hatred.

Oh the things that keeps the flame burning...

Once she was done, she got behind the camera and retook the second set of pictures as if nothing happened.

After a few more snaps, Levi also joined Eren. And this is where the sensuality began.

Levi pinned Eren against the window, his lips over his neck as he buried his face in the crook of Eren's neck, inhaling his scent. But it made him wrinkle his nose to smell the amount of makeup covering his neck.

Levi's body was sitting on his waist while Eren's head lolled to the side. While their position was intimate, Eren's expression was not.

"Eren, you look uncomfortable."

"I-I'm not..."

Petra laughed softly. "This is supposed to look sensual, not awkward. This'll be over in no time. But make it look like you're enjoying it."

That was when Levi shifted more on top of Eren. He actually started to kiss his neck quietly, avoiding the covered spots. He focused more below Eren's ear. He even nibbled and sucked lightly on his earlobe. Levi's hand rubbed against Eren's inner thigh, close to his crotch. Rubbing smoothing circles on his thigh while teasing his sensitive area.

"Just like that! Perfect!"

Picture after picture, pose after pose. Eren seemed to be getting used to the repeating actions. His face and actions was on point throughout the shot. Lidded eyes, parted lips, curled fingers intertwining with one another.

The brightly lit background with the window and the carnal poses gave off the right feel to the first session. Petra felt butterflies clicking through the many snapshots took. She chose the filter monochrome for some while others gave off a soft, hazy early morning glow. Every detail was erotic yet classy and usurp.

Nothing rated R but nothing was G rated either.

Eren's favorites was the one with him on top of Levi, pushing him back while hovering over him. He was left in nothing but his underwear with the white dress shirt covering up to his lower back. He had a small smirk while Levi tiled his chin forward wanting a kiss from the younger male. The only thing Levi had stripped was his tie messily thrown on the side with his shirt unbuttoned.

The next one he liked from this shoot was the one with his legs wrapped around Levi's waist. While Levi sat toward the window, Eren sat towards the camera with his head resting against Levi's shoulder. While Levi was shirtless, Eren was pants-less since Petra said, "You have nice legs and you should show them more." Eren's eyes were closed gently as if he was sleeping. Both of his hands held Levi's back running over the tattoo. Eren still was intently interested in.

And after that shot, they were transitioned into the room they started in with the dark gray back drop.

There was now a black painted bench in a square box filled with ankle-deep water.

Now this part of the shoot he loved. Eren thought it was really creative. Hr had fun posing in this one. He loved the photo with him sitting on Levi, with is head turned one forth towards the camera with a small blush and innocent expression. His shirt sat over his waist while Levi held on securely to his lower back. Eren had his legs on either side of Levi.

Oh, and the one with him and Levi on each side of the bench both facing each other. Eren had his legs to his chest while Levi sat with one leg yo his chest and the other in the water. That one was simple so he liked that one too.

The shoot continued on and slowly, Eren began to lose his energy.

**~•~**

Has it only been an hour because it felt like four? Eren was tired and when Petra said he'll be getting sleepy, she wasn't lying.

After about twenty to forty photos in front of the backdrop, he headed back to the dressing rooms only to find out there is nothing there. This is a joke, right?

Maybe the clothing director forgot to give him his clothes? Or maybe they're still trying to figure out what they should do for the next shot. So Eren took it upon himself to leave behind the curtains and head to where Levi was.

"Levi, did you get your clothes too?" He called from the outside. At least he had some respect for the bitter old man.

"What do you mean?" He asked. "And come inside."

When Eren entered, he saw Levi hastily jabbing his phone's keyboard. The man looked up in the mirror to see Eren closing the door behind him.

'"So you didn't change either?"

"Still I don't understand what the hell you're talking about, could you be any more vague?" Levi set his phone down and turned to face Eren.

"I mean there's nothing on my rack. Its empty. Did they forget to put clothes on your too?"

Levi stared blankly at Eren for a moment. He then laughed a little in his throat. "You're really fucking clueless, aren't you? Do you not understand, did I need to spoon feed you the entire way?"

"...No...?"

"Mature a little, will you? Did you bother to read the gestalt?"

"The what?"

"The overview, since I have to dumb it down for you. Basically, did you read your job summary? The manilla folder containing your job descriptions for each section of the shoot." Levi explained. It was silent and with after a moment, Eren shook his head and responded with a soft, "No..."

Levi sighed and began to unbutton his shirt while Eren stood by confused. It was when he began removing his bottom article of clothing Eren began to freak out.

"What the hell do you think you're doing?! I'm not doing this again what the hell don't you understand about that?!"

"It's for the photo shoot dumbass. The next session is nude."

"I thought you don't do nude shoots."

"I don't," Levi admitted, stripping himself of his pants. Eren leaned against the door with his arms crossed and his face red. Trying his best not to look up. "I never expose myself fully in front of the camera. Its tasteless."

"Then why are you agreeing to this?"

"Because I won't be completely exposed. You'll understand when we get out there."

This time, Eren looked up to see Levi wrapping a towel around his lower regions.

"Isn't this like... Porn? It's like Playboy."

"Are you fucking kidding me? I'm a model, Eren. A model." Levi said grimly. His eyes narrowed dangerously and darkened as he stared Eren down.

"I'm not a pornstar you little shit. What I do doesn't involve me fucking someone on camera just for the world's personal enjoyment. I have respect for myself, brat. Just because I'm nude doesn't mean I'm about to fuck somebody or masturbate for the camera. I don't know what filthy shit you teens, and most specifically you, do in your spare time and honestly, I don't give a fuck and I don't want to know. Keep your hormones under control, Jaeger."

"I-I usual don't do that kind of stuff...anymore... But I don't get it. Is it just a waist up shot?"

"No."

"Then what?"

"Again, you'll see when we get out there for now, just get dressed. Or in this case, undressed."

"...Do we have to do nude? Can't we wear boxers or something that'll cover me up?" Eren asked, walking closer to Levi. Levi only stared blankly at Eren, noticing the discomfort in his eyes.

Levi raised a brow then said, "You know, nobody's holding a gun to your head. You don't have to do this. If you're not comfortable with it, say something. I'm not going to force you to do something like this. Anything else, yeah, I will. But, this'll be an exception."

"...I-"

"Don't worry. If you're not too sure on this then say so." Eren thought for a moment. Levi seemed really into the idea of a nude shoot.

Strangely...

It wasn't that he was against it, it was just awkward. Who wouldn't feel a little camera-shy exposing that much flesh? It wasn't something Eren considered himself doing. Especially with Levi...

But then again, this was for a good reason...?

"Okay… It's fine, I'll do it with you."

"Are you sure?"

"M...hm... Yes." Eren answered steadily. "I'll do it. It's not big deal."

"Don't lie you little shit. It's unattractive."

"I'm not lying! And I wouldn't lie for an old man like you anyways so don't get your hopes up," Eren hastily and messily pulled off his tie and wasted no time to strip himself free of his shirt. He had no problem pulling his belt from the loops and dropping it on the floor but when it came down to stripping his pants and boxers, in his head he wasn't afraid to admit he hesitated. But soon, swallowing that restraint, he found himself standing fully exposed in front of a blank expression Levi.

The model sat with his arms crossed resting back against them chair comfortably taking in Eren inch by inch not leaving one detail unnoticed.

It was creepy how someone could stare at another person completely undressed with an expression that said, "I'm plotting your slow and excruciating painful death as you speak," but his eyes were loving everything about the teen.

Arms wrapped around Eren's wrist and pulled his body to him, adjusting the teen on top of his lap and nuzzling his chin on Eren's shoulder. He kissed along his neck, suckling softly on his collar-bone.

"Will you give it a rest?" Eren asked slightly flustered.

Levi chuckled in his throat and latched himself on Eren's ear. After paying some attention to his earlobe, he placed a kiss on Eren's forehead and said,

"I like this outfit on you best."

"Stop it, you old geezer," Eren groaned, he pushed Levi back but his eye caught on to the inked image on Levi's back.

"Hey, old man, what's that tattoo on your back?"

"Hm? Oh, that? Its nothing really."

"You act nonchalant about it. Getting a tattoo doesn't seem like something you'd do. Plus, I never thought you'd get a tattoo like that!"

"What? I can't have a tattoo unless it has flames or a fucking skull that looks ridiculous and tawdry? Or is it because I didn't tattoo the last beer I drank on my arm or something equally as fucking stupid you teenagers and brain-dead adults usually scar yourselves with? I'm sorry for not sinking to level of stupidity many have sunken down to. I respect my body and tattooing a dick on the side of my face isn't on my bucket list."

"Okay, okay, sorry. I didn't need an entire rant on your personal feelings, I'm not a therapist," Eren spit out, a lot sharper than he expected to. "I just wanted to know why did you get it?"

"Because," Levi started, staring Eren deeply in his eyes. "Its something from the past that gave us hope."

"…What do you mean?"

"Isabel. Farlan. Mikasa. They needed something to give them strength. Something that'd give them the optimism and courage they needed to go on another day. Including me. One day, we saw a nest of birds nestled in their nest in a tree nearby where we were resting. We were looking through a pile of rubbish we found. Isabel was hyperactive as usual but that day was different. Normally, she'd be talking up a storm and making a few jokes or complaining about what useless garbage we rustled up. But instead, she was quiet, curious and for once taking in her surroundings.

Farlan was the first to spot and call out the bird's nest and Isabel remarked how the birds huddled together. That was until the mother began to push and encourage the birds out of the nest. Isabel was upset, I'll give you that. I found it humorous how she was getting upset over one little thing,"

Levi paused for a moment. Making sure Eren had caught onto everything he just said. He pulled Eren closer and continued.

"When the mother finally pushed the babies out of the nest, she was pissed off. Stating that the mother bird was a "bad parent." But she was amazed watching the birds catch themselves and use their wings to fly. They quickly caught on and used their instinct. I'll admit, even I was somewhat caught up in the moment. I realized, we can make it out of this. it'll take time and luck. But as the saying goes, spit in one hand and put luck in the other and we both now what'll fill up quicker."

"Okay...?" Eren said sleepily, running his hands over Levi's back. "Finish the story already."

"...Long story short is, wings are a sign of freedom. And something we desperately wanted was to be free of that madness. When we saw the birds soaring in the sky, embracing their new ability, Isabel wished she had wings too-"

"Did she have the same tattoo?!" Eren interrupted. "And Mikasa? What about Farlan?"

"Isabel and Farlan were too young to get a tattoo. And I got this after they died as a memory. Mikasa does not have a tattoo."

"Do you have anymore?"

"No."

"I wish I could meet Isabel and Farlan. I just hope Isabel doesn't act like her cat counterpart..." Eren rested his head against Levi's shoulder and closed his eyes with a soft yawn. That medication was already taking effect. And Eren was happy about that. Maybe now he didn't have to do the nude shoot.

"Isabel acts the same as the cat Isabel. She's attached to me, overprotective around new people and energetic. But I don't think Isabel would hate you as much as the cat. She would get used to you over time and treat you as a brother as well."

"Then what the hell's wrong with your perverted cat?!"

Levi shrugged. "She's a cat, dumbass. What do you expect?"

"Privacy at least... I won't be watching when she finds a mate."

"She won't be getting pregnant anytime soon. I don't want kittens breaking shit and shitting all over the house and annoying me. Bad enough Hanji visits."

"I didn't say anything about her getting pregnant,"

"...Okay?"

"Are you thinking about childre-"

"Eren, shut the fuck up."

"Come on, just admit it. I always knew you had a soft spot."

Levi rolled his eyes and pushed Eren off him, annoyed by his childish behavior. "I don't want kids. End of story. They're time-consuming and spoiled shits."

"But you deal with me,"

"Why are you contemplating this idea? Where did you get the idea of me wanting kids?"

"You started it." Eren argued.

"And I'm ending it," Levi deadpanned. "And the fact you keep persisting this idea proves you're a woman."

"I'm not a fucking girl!"

"Whatever helps you sleep at night," Levi said with a soft, playful smirk. "But you want kids. I don't want really want you to bear mine but I may consider."

"For God's sakes Levi, give it a rest already!"

"You do have somewhat round hips, though I've seen better."

"Maybe because I'm a boy!" Eren almost shouted.

"Levi stop teasing the poor boy, I can hear you all the way down the- ah, oh..." Eren and Levi turned their heads to realize Petra walked in a bag and a cup holder.

"I'm sorry..." She mumbled. "I didn't mean to... Intrude..." Eren's face burned red as he groaned uncomfortably, trying his best to ignore Petra was standing staring at his naked self.

"You didn't intrude anything," Levi said flatly. "I'm just calling him out on bullshit. I see you brought us something."

Petra nodded slowly, letting her eyes fall to the floor. "I brought Turkey Rustico Panini's, Spicy Chicken Salad and Strawberry Mango Smoothies for lunch."

"Did you bring any desserts? Eren's been craving something sweet for the past few minuets."

"What?!" Eren squeaked.

"Craving?" Petra drew out, setting the bag down on a nearby table.

"I believe he's three weeks-"

"I'm not a fucking girl! Get that through your thick ass skull!" Eren exclaimed. He matched over to Levi and began hitting him, Levi sitting at first unphased but soon, it became annoying and Levi began to hit him back. Harder.

"That hurt! Stop being an old bat!"

"Then stop acting like a spoiled brat!"

"God, I hate you!"

"You're not any better!"

Petra laughed, and crossed her arms. "I have some chocolate marble loaf cake in the front. Would you like some of that?" She asked, directly at Eren.

"No. I'm not having cravings, I'm not whatever Levi makes me out to be! Don't listen to him!"

"What? There's no need to be ashamed~"

"Can I go home?" Eren asked with an exasperated sigh. He looked at Petra who didn't look back at him but towards the opposite direction to give him respect. "I've had enough of him for one day."

"You have one last shoot, it'll take at least forty minuets tops."

"Do I have to?"

"Yes." Petra simply responded. "Why are you two arguing anyways?"

"..."

"..."

"...Something about a cat... And other things on that topic... And I'm getting the backlash from grandpa over there."

"Mhm. And he fails to tell you he's carrying my child." Levi deadpanned, his eyes narrowing darkly at Eren.

"Levi!" Petra exclaimed.

* * *

As Eren entered the cafe, he yawned widely and audible. He held the which envelope underneath his arm while in the other held the bag Petra brought in with his lunch and the large smoothie.

Levi's lips still lingered on his as he collapsed on the couch.

"Eren, you're back already?" Carla called, walking down the stair quickly and looking at the kitchen before turning her head to where the couch and TV sat.

He didn't say a word except he responded with a low groan in his throat. He turned onto his side and held the picture closer to his chest.

"What's that?"

"Nothing..." He mumbled under his breath.

Carla walked towards the couch with a playful smirk on her mouth. She snuck up quietly, leaned forward and snatched the envelope from Eren, jumping back with a high pitch laugh as he launched up and forward to get the envelope back.

"Give it!"

"Nope! What are you hiding from me~?" She cooed. She opened the envelope and pulled out the first picture she could before Eren grabbed the envelope back.

She looked over it, her hear sinking to the pit of her stomach and he face twisting in confusion and disgust seeing the little midgit posing with her son.

Of course, she had to pull out the one from the nude shoot. It was the one with Eren one top, grazing Levi's lips. He remember Levi's length right on his entrance and with one wrong move, Eren would be regretting it eternally. Levi's hands roamed through his hair as his eyes bared daggers of dark list into Eren's eyes.

The photo was in black and white and the water had black food coloring in it so in the photo, the water looked really black; almost midnight.

It was strange having this acted out. Eren has thought about different fantasies with Levi but they all popped up by accident and portraying his need for the man wasn't hard as images from his imagination flooded his mind. And he was thankful for it too. It made the images more alluring and believable.

And he gave off the right expression and displayed perfect emotion for the shot.

Carla wastes no time to look at Eren. She wanted to laugh. Well, she did. Which kinda angered Eren.

"What's so funny?!"

"Haha... The fact you're on top. I never took you as the type of person who'd-"

"We're not dating! It was just for the shoot and it was all Petra's idea," Eren half lied. His voice died down a little, and he took a deep breath. "It was just for the session."

"I never said you were dating."

"...Yeah, well... Just to clear it up, I don't want you getting any funny ideas. He's an old bastard."

"Huh, I agree... But if you like him I'm in no place to tell you who you should be with-"

"Mom, stop it."

"...I still like you and Mikasa. She seems like a nice young lady. You can settle down with her and have children-"

"No!" Eren's voice was almost like glass.

"I want grandchildren."

"And I want this conversation to end."

"Calm down, calm down, Eren, I'm only teasing. You're gonna miss me one day and wish I was there~"

"I'm not leaving home anytime soon. Maybe once I graduate, I will... Maybe."

She hugged Eren tightly, making sure to squeeze the life out of him. "M-mhom, let go!"

She kissed his forehead and rested her head against his. "You're my baby and I want the best for you."

"If y-you love me so much... Let g-go!... Thank you."

"You look so cute in this picture. Though... It's not what I... Had... In mind..."

"What about Levi?"

"What about him?"

"You said I look cute, what about him?"

"Meh." She said, handing Eren back the picture. "He could do better."

The teen smiled and laughed. He placed the picture back in the envelope and walked back over to the couch.

"I agree."

"Hey, Eren," Carla called from the kitchen.

"Yes?" He asked sounding slightly annoyed by his mother.

"Don't ever do a naked shoot with him again. Or else you and Levi will not hear the end of Miss Carla Jaeger."

"Yeah, we wouldn't want to mess with her." Carla didn't have to look at Eren to know he was smiling.

"I'm serious. I will beat that little man into an ant."

"I uh... I'll be sure to tell him."

* * *

A/N: Over 100 reviews?! OmaigoshThankYouGuys! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I seriously cannot express how thankful I am for all my supporters you guys are so awesome!

I'm sooo sorry I didn't post this chapter sooner. I have school work and then I'm trying out for soccer and then I just kept procrastinating...

But next week the chapter will be posted up on time.

Till next time, stay sweet my strawberries!

Edit: Oh and thank you Isiah for the ankle deep water idea and the bench for the photoshoot!

Review Response:

TheSwordHolder99: I have no idea how to write smut but those 69 other fanfics I read really helped me out xD thanks for the review!

MishaCollin: I thank you. Like I said there aren't many model AU's so I just had to write one! Thank you, I'm happy that you like it so far! And I didn't want to write a love-dovey relationship because like you said, it's not how they'd act if it was canon. So I'm building a relationship on sex jokes, sex, coarse language, affection, care etc etc... But later on, Levi will soften towards Eren. And I love the user name!

StarryBlight: Levi and Hanji's dialogue is probably my favorite thing about writing this story. Its easy to type dialogue for those two. Other fanfictions? Yes. I have plots already written out in a notebook which I pray nobody will go through at home and at school :P I'm not giving out the titles or the full plot synopsis but expect seeing this: 1920's Mafia AU. Vampire AU (original right xD) an AU based off of Log Off another Ereri fan fiction, a LevixErenxArmin fanfic and many others but I should end this here. Thanks for the support

Glasses: Lol, I'm embarrassed because I sat in the middle of English and wrote that scene down in a notebook while my teacher thought I was taking notes. xD yeah, notes on how Eren gives blowjobs like a pro.

...

I'm sorry

...

Beloved Nightmare Union: Its not being called homophobic, its called being an asshole. If my friend wasn't open about his sexuality and comfortable about it, this fanfic wouldn't exist because he's a major influence when it comes down to writing this.

And don't worry about the wall of text, its always nice to hear what you have to say.

Nee Kuchiki TT3TT: Thank you!

xKireyy: When I reread it, I laughed my ass off reading, "I'll probably find my car crashed into the side of an anger management building," xD I love it cause its something Eren would do.

And thanks. I know you love it cause you continued to give it love and support.

ella343e: A lot will be reveled about Auruo in later chapters. And yeah, I'm in love with Levi's sense of humor

ShouraiLink: Thanks for the review!

Kkekelicious: Thank you. Hopefully later into the story, Levi will open up to Eren more.

Nanoworker: Thank you very much. :3

PurpleOmpski: I forgot the cat was there too. I went back reread it and I remembered Isabel is sitting in the front seat. What'll be a perfect way to ruin the moment? A perverted, Levi look a like cat.

Mermaidhorse: Thank you! And I hope you don't tire out from reading cause I think I might write more than twenty chapters.

Dontkillme!


	17. Chapter Sixteen: Sweet and Sour Cherry

Eren rolled over, glaring at the screen of his phone as it lit up and the familiar ding alerted him of a text message.

**Levi: Hey you little shit. Are you seriously fucking asleep? Get your lazy ass up, I'm downstairs**

Eren grinned, rolling his eyes as he shifted onto his back, stretching with a groan, before sliding, quite literally, out of bed.

**Eren: Come upstairs and get me**

**Levi: Love to. But your mother doesn't trust me**

**Eren: Come get me**

**Levi: No.**

The teen rolled out of bed, stretching his joints before he stood and walked off the carpet, his foot embracing the cold wood floors. His brain was half asleep but he was still focused not to step on any deserted items scattered about the floor.

Once he reached the closet, he through one the closet things in sight. He quickly through off his shirt and worn out bed pants and threw on an old band T-shirt, baggy jeans, his mom's homemade sweater, a another sweater, Levi's jacket, two jackets he bought from the mall and a large coat. He also through on a scarf.

Eren slipped his phone in his pocket, grabbed his wallet and pushed downstairs to be greeted by the aroma of coffee, air freshener, breakfast and sweets tickled his senses and he walked quicker down the steps to hurry to the delicious paradise.

Sounds of the frying pan mixed with the soft sound of the television and his mother talking with the occasional sound of Marco's voice.

"Good morning, mom-"

"Hold the fuck up, brat," Levi interrupted quickly, settling his phone down on the counter and looking up. He hasn't been in the room for 2 seconds and already Levi was going to call him out on something...

"Why the hell are you dressed like that?"

"Like what?"

"Like you're about to capture and kill a fucking yeti." He deadpanned.

" 'The hell are you talking about? Its cold out."

"Yeah, but we're not climbing to the top of Mount Freeze-Your-Balls-Off. We're going inside a dance studio where there's a heater, you brainless shit."

Eren stood there for a moment, slowly letting the words sink into his head. What the hell was Levi talking about?

"Dance Studio? Why are we going to a dance studio?"

Levi groaned rolling his eyes and pushing his hair from his eyes angrily. "Are you slow?"

"And could you be anymore vague? It's like you want to argue with my son," Carla cut in quickly, putting bacon next to the pancakes. She shot a look at Levi which he rolled his eyes to. "Eren come here," she called.

The teen walked up to his mother cautiously, taking precautions not knowing what she might do.

She kissed his cheek, narrowing her eyes at Levi before she gave him the plate of food. "Erwin called me yesterday and informed me that you're supposed to head to Sina's dance center for a practice?"

Eren blinked. Oh yeah... That...

"You never told me you were performing something."

"Huh? O-oh, that... Well, I don't know what we're going to be doing... A-and it was supposed to be a surprise?" He lied.

She rose a brow, unimpressed by this. She pulled on his ear and said, "You're a terrible liar."

"...I'm not..." He mumbled, pushing her hand away. He turned on his heel and marched up to his room.

After Eren changed proceeded to get yelled at from Levi from still not wearing the "proper attire", defusing the situation between Levi and his mother debating: Who is the perfect choice for Eren, Levi or Mikasa? They finally said their goodbyes, some more meaningful than others and headed out.

Today was a little warmer from the usual cold blast Sina, Rose, and most likely Shiganshina have been experiencing for the past few months but it was still considerably cold. When they reached the dance studio, Levi parked around front and Eren noticed the studio was already open and paying costumers were walking inside to get to work.

Within minuets Eren and Levi checked in at the front, making sure the coast was clear before proceeding to do so and before Eren could even open his mouth he was standing on a deluxe dance floor that was glossy and looked like hard wood. But it was clean and sleek and expensive looking. He looked around, his mouth slightly ajar as he took in the large room. It was a simple room with a large dance floor, white walls with a large mirror plastered on the wall parallel to the entrance to the room.

He then heard a sound of Levi's bag hitting the floor, followed by his water bottle placed on the floor. "Wait, Levi, are you sure you can put your bag down?"

"What do you mean? Where else am I suppose to put it?"

"The floors look expensive. I-I mean this _place_ looks expensive. What if we break something? Or what if it's scratched?!"

"I doubt it. Plus it's not like it's a big deal, if I break something. I'll just pay for it. No skin off my ass." The man replied. Eren groaned and under his breath mumbled, "Rich people." He slid off his jacket slowly and set it down. He didn't really bring anything. It's not like he needed anything. Or atleast he thought. What if he did? Oh well, there's always next time.

A woman walked in with short black hair. Eren would mistake her for Mikasa if her hair wasn't that short. Plus it was tied back and sat messily on top of her head and she lacked height. She was about 4'11 much to Levi's gratefulness. She wore black sweatpants, a black tank top with a bright blue sweater around her waist. She could be mistaken for a 3rd grade girl easily in a crowd of people. "You're Eren and... Levy?"

"Le_vi_," He corrected with a rough gruff in his voice. She nodded,taking his correction into consideration. "I'm Aaliyah... Uh.. Celeb Feast preparations, correct?"

"Yes." They both answered.

She clasped her hands together, standing for a brief moment to collect her thoughts. "I talk to an Erwin and Hanji earlier today,"

"Whatever Hanji has said, I apologize on the Garrison and I's behalf. I have no idea what Erwin was thinking when he took her in as a talent scout..." Levi said. The woman's eyebrows met. "She seems... alright. She hasn't said anything that throw me off. Just a few things on your relationship."

"It's not really a relationship, it's more of a... mutual acquaintance?" Eren tried, drawing out the words "Mutual Acquaintance." Levi shot him a look and spoke up quickly, "We're in a relationship, it's just on... explosive grounds."

"As in...?"

"We go from 0 to 100 real quick." Eren said.

"He's a brat and I'm an "Old dick" and this is why we can't have a stable relationship." Levi added. "That's not true!"

"I've heard enough... well, depending on the circumstances and the information I was given about you two, I have about seven different routines prepared."

"A-are they hip hop routines? Or slow dancing? Or anything that's too difficult to learn? Because I... can't.. really dance..." Eren's face felt warm as it grew with embarrassment. He heard a quiet snide remark from Levi but before he could make his comeback, the woman intervened. "Well, isn't that why you're here? By the end of the day you'll know all three perfectly and from there, you'll decide which performance you want to do."

"We're staying here till the end of the day?!" His voice hiked up a few octaves.

"Do you expect to pick up new choreography in ten minuets? In an hour I expect you to have your first routine complete and we'll be moving on to the next piece."

"Do we have to?" Eren groaned.

"Excuse him, he's a major pain in the ass and suffers from Complain-Too-Goddamn-Much-Syndrome." Levi spoke, he crossed his arms and waited for the brat's retort but instead he got uncharacteristic silence.

And for once, Levi was surprised by Eren's control.

The first routine Levi was not afraid to voice his opinion. The first song was simply titled Fragile by Tech Nine. It started simple. They'd face the crowd, Eren's back against Levi's chest, sliding down with his arms laced around his neck. Then Levi was instructed to get a firm grip on Eren and Eren was to flip over Levi's shoulder and land perfectly on his feet. Of course he handed on his face, there was laughter, a small heated argument but he got back on his feet. Everything was fine until the second verse came on and Levi's filter was broken and his words pounded into Aaliyah's skull until she decided to scratch the number.

They then moved onto the next dance. It was called "Love Me Harder" by Ariana Grande featuring The Weekend. The dance was upbeat yet sensual, especially where the lyrics were concerned. Which Levi enjoyed. But Eren hated this dance. He had nothing against the song, though he wouldn't hear the end of the fact he dance in such ways with Levi but that wasn't his problem. Levi was able to hit each beat with a few mistakes that he could easily correct and continue. But Eren was a stumbling mess. It was like putting a cow on heels and putting it on a treadmill. Eren forgot the beat which threw him off from Levi's sync, he forgot pieces of the choreography given, he was afraid of a few tricks Aaliyah added in which splits, ariels, tilts, reverse turn holds and other skills Eren would never do in a million years. Even if somebody paid him. Well... that would mean money towards him and his mom... but if it had an 99.999... percent chance of ripping his scrotum in half, money isn't worth it.

After about sixty failed attempts to pick up the moves which Levi had down packed in a matter of about forty minuets, Eren figured out a few moves and hit a few accents in the song and finally mimicked Levi's movements. Though Eren was still not up to par with Levi's quick, fluid movements. Plus he wasn't ale to pull of a few of the stunts in the routine. Levi had a few as well. And it made Eren feel a little better because Levi couldn't pull off the gymnastic stunts either but probably by tomorrow he'll be somersaulting around the studio. And Eren wouldn't be surprised by it either.

They went through routine after routine, and Levi denied most of them. Either because of choreography, the music, or just because of Eren's discomfort.

But in the end, they were left with three numbers.

They settled on Latch in the end and completely scratched the Love Me Harder routine. The choreography was simple, movements were kept at a minimum and Eren's feet could stay planted to the ground. Plus the song was slowed so Eren could keep up with his partner's pace.

But in the end, the routine was still a disgusting mess.

* * *

When around eleven forty-five rolled around, Eren was exhausted and lagged throughout the routine, Levi was irritated and Aaliyah was simply sick of watching Eren dance and trying to tutor him. By twelve thirty-three, she gathered her belongings and said her goodbyes, after giving brief instructions on what not to do in her business before locking up the studio. That left both Eren and Levi in a heated room.

Finally, Eren collapsed against the mirror and drowned half his water bottle with a sign when his lips broke contact. He looked around with lazy eyes to see Levi wiping the excess sweat from his forehead with his towel then picked up his phone to see if he got any new notifications.

"Hey, Levi?" Eren said lowly, his voice echoing softly throughout the almost deserted large room.

"What brat?"

"Can we go home now."

"You want to go home with me?"

"Ew, no. N-n-no. I mean can I go home... T-to my mom... You know what i mean, don't make this awkward!"

Levi wanted to chuckle but he choked it back. He glanced over at Eren who waite for a response. "You did terrible."

"Thanks Corporal Obvious. I didn't figure that out the first ten minuets we got here." He replied with a roll of his eyes.

"You couldn't even follow the steps."

"So?"

"Why should I let you go home?" Levi looked up, a serious glare painting his face. Eren's mouth fell open a little, a small shock of surprise on his face.

"I will call the police and tell them you're keeping me hostage. I'm not even joking. I don't know what's going through your sick head but whenever you get that look, it never ends well with me."

Levi groaned. Why does he put up with this kid? Only God knows. This was a stupid idea. Absolutely asinine. This was only going to be a waste of time, energy and most importantly sleep. So why was Levi deficient to go through with this?

He scrolled through the list of music choices Erwin sent him earlier that day. "You think you can't dance, correct?"

"I _know _I can't dance."

Levi nodded slowly, walking up to the large speakers and hooking his phone up to the docks. "You can't dance because you're not feeling the music," the model walked to the corner of the room and grabbed the chair, hauling it back to the middle of the room. He walked to his phone pressed play and walked to Eren. "You're also not confident in yourself."

A soft beat played through the speakers, catching Eren off guard. "Say, Eren, have you ever given anybody a lap dance?"

Levi kneeled in front of the teen who shook his head. " No. And I'm not giving you one."

"Yes, you are."

"No, I'm not." Eren retorted weakly.

Levi wasted no time to pull Eren to his feet and attach himself to Eren. He placed a quick kiss on Eren's lips before he slithered his way seductively down Erne's body. When he reached his waist, he broke away and grabbed Eren's hand, proudly guiding him to the chair while using his strength to drag him there.

He took a seat, keeping a firm grip on Eren's hand.

"Let me go!"

"Dance." Levi said simply. His voice was harsh and rough. Demanding. Eren's face fell red and his feature's soften as he heard the lyrics to the song begin.

_I left my girl back home, I don't love her no more_

...

_And she'll never fucking know that, these fucking eyes that I'm staring at_

"I want you to dance for me, Eren. Do whatever comes to mind."

"Alright, I'll see you tomorrow!" Eren cried, trying to run away but Levi kept a strong grip on him. "Let go! You said do whatever comes to mind!"

"I meant sexually. Not leave me in the wind," Levi stared at Eren for a minuet before continuing. "Listen, when we get on stage, we have to show we're in love. Even though we aren't so good at it, I know we can pull it off,"

Levi spun Eren around and said, "Now," his hands found their way to Eren's hips and he swayed them to the slow rhythm of the song. "Like I said before, I want you to dance for me." Levi's words were hot against Eren's ear, making the hair's on the back of his neck stand and a shiver run down his spine.

"I can't dance." Eren was like a broken, repetitive record.

_Bring your love baby I can bring my shame_

Levi nipped softly at the nape of the teen's neck, pushing his hair aside while still grinding his hips to the song. A flush of crimson sweeping Eren's face as Levi's hands got the mind of their own and slithered their way to the front of his pants.

_Bring the drugs baby I can bring my pain_

Eren's back arched to the words. He bit his bottom lip to suffice a moan and ended up stumbling backwards on Levi. He could hear a brief chuckle from the man and instead of releasing his gasps of pleasure, he gave him a grunt of anger.

"What the hell's so damn funny?!" Eren asked, quickly standing and turning to Levi. He was happy yet... unsatisfied by the fact Levi wasn't continuing his "act."

The man crossed his legs and rubbed his fingers together, feeling the sticky substance moisten his fingers. "Oh nothing. It's funny because I thought inexperienced virgin like you could satisfy me."

Eren raised an irritated brow, narrowing his eyes defensively against the model. "I'm not a virgi anymore. You should stop taking your medication because it's making you forget-"

"Trust me, you little shit, I had to take medication to forget our little innuendo in the back seat. You were a mess then and you're a mess now."

"You weren't saying that when you-" This isn't worth it. Levi just wanted to spark an argument just to piss off Eren and that's not what he's going to get. Instead, Eren was going to make him eat his words. "I'll gladly take your feedback after the _service_," he gritted out, giving Levi a determined look.

A small smirk washed over Levi's face. One Eren's never really seen him give before. Levi was impressed. For once he was actually impressed by his brat's actions. The ocean eyed teen watched Levi uncrossed his legs and lean back, not losing his smirk once.

"Let's see then."

* * *

What was he doing? Why was he grinding happily on top of his loved yet hated extremely rich boyfriend, as Levi's slid happily over his waist? Wow, that sounded like almost every fourteen year old girl's dream...

Not a nineteen year old "virgin" German boy with a nice ass and eyes.

Yet, it was still happening.

Every once in a while Eren gulped nervously. He tried to focus by keeping himself on Levi's eyes. There was something in Levi's gaze that captivated him. His eyes were alluring. They were dull while at the same time sparking with desireable emotion.

_I got my heart right here, I got my scars right here  
Bring the cups baby I can bring the drink  
Bring your body baby I can bring you fame_

The lyrics to Wicked Games pooled into his ears filling his senses with the right amount of sensuality to continue with this. He was actually taking Levi's advice to listen to the music. While he danced, Levi coached. Levi was like a mother you're afraid of who finally finds a heart to teach you to swim. It was like Eren was in the water and Levi wasn't going to let him drown. Even though his words most of the time came out slurred or with a heated moan, he still was learning from this.

_That's my motherfucking word too Just let me motherfucking love you!_

Eren turned around, back facing Levi. Then, with both of his hands bracing against the chair, Eren lowered his hips until his ass was barely above Levi's crotch. Behind the base of his neck, Levi's breath hitched with want, and Eren, stirred by Levi's response, began to move. He gyrated his hip to the music, and as the song rolled to the lyrics _Listen ma, I'll give you all I got, Give me all for this, I need confidence in myself_, Eren dipped his ass and rubbed himself against Levi, giving a few long circular motions over him and earning a delicious gasp and low groan in his throat.

"H-how was that?"

"Perfect." Levi responded with a short loss in breath. "Act like this on stage and we'll be trending for weeks."

Eren pushed himself off Levi's lap and turned to face Levi. Levi's face was flushed yet he still held his cool and stoic façade. "Watch how you land, you stumbled a little."

The boy nodded, taking his words into consideration. "Also, when you slide off, you're more likely to slid off me facing the crowd, not me."

"Do I have to do that again?"

"Make it quick. It's better for you to get used to this now instead of later." Once Eren ran the move again, instead of him landing in front of Levi, he decided to add his own charisma into the practice. He rolled his hips forwards with the music, rocking against Levi's crotch.

Slowly arching his back to an arch and bringing his face up to Levi's. They were close, their breath's intertwining with one another as Eren ran his hands along Levi's jaw line, soon leaving quick kisses along it too.

_So tell me you love me. Only for tonight... Only for tonight..._

Eren stood slowly, seductively, taking his time before he finally paced around Levi's chair, occasionally running his hands around Levi's ingenuous zones to keep him entertaining. Before Eren could finish his movements , Levi pulled his brat back to him and squeezed Eren though his pants. Eren's hips stuttered to a stop. Levi seemed equally excited, if the thing poking into Eren's knee was any indication.

Eren sat still for a moment, using Levi's shoulders to keep him propped up. He allowed everything to sink in and he tried to sit back and wonder what just happened. He was so turned on by this it almost didn't feel right. It felt good. It was energizing. To watch Levi wither beneath him to the very touch.

"Is that all you have for me?" Levi asked with a haughty expression that Eren very much wanted to wipe off his face.

"You fucking wish. I'm not ending this here."

_Even though you don't love me  
Oh, oh  
Just tell me you love me, I'll give you all of me, I'll give you all of me  
Even though you don't love me_

He pushed Levi back against the couch. He was definitely going to show Levi, he was in control. He slid his knees either side of the smaller male, trapping Levi between his thighs. Eren spread his legs apart and lowered himself slowly until his erection was rubbing against Levi's. Beneath him, he could see Levi was biting the inside of his cheek to keep himself from making a sound, and that spurred Eren on further. He wanted to get a nice sound from Levi. He wanted an indication that Levi wanted him as badly as he wanted Levi. He wanted Levi to beg for him. He wanted Levi to beg for Eren.

_Let me see you dance. I love to watch you dance. Take you down another level. Get you dancing with the devil..._

"See, Eren,, you can do this almost perfectly. The only different be-between this is that you're only giving me a lap dance. Our routine is a lot more than just grinding- Ah!" He moaned.

"That's exactly why I can't do the dance. Why don't I just give you a lap dance on stage?"

"Be-because, this is _Celeb Feast_. Not a Strip Club," Eren smiled softly and leaned in close to Levi's lips, slowly connecting them. Eren's finger's intertwined with the back of Levi's head pulling him in close to deeper their act of affection. Levi's hand roamed over Eren's back, tugging his body to his chest, stealing his warmth.

Eren wanted to stay like this. This felt so comforting. This is what Eren wanted in his and Levi's relationship instead of the constant on and off. He wanted it to stay sweet. Or if anything bittersweet. He opened his eyes halfway to see Levi breaking away slowly. Unaware of what was happening, he finally realized the soft vibration not too far away.

A soft ringing came from Eren's back pocket. Levi unwrapped his hands from Eren's waist so he could retrieve his phone. To his surprise, it was Mikasa.

"Hello?" Eren answered slightly flustered.

"Eren?! Oh Eren, I'm so glad you're okay! I called Levi at least a hundred times and he didn't pick up. Are you two okay? Did something happen? Is anybody injured?!"

Eren could hear his mom call from a distance, "Is that them? Are they alright?" and Eren smiled a little on the inside. He wanted to laugh honestly. He was fine. He was doing just fine with Levi.

"No, nobody's injured. Levi and I are oka, we're still inside the studio... We're just... practicing."

There was a quick silence on the other line followed by a quick shuffling. "Eren?" His mother's voice came through. "Are you alright Eren, I'm worried."

"Yes, I'm fine," he replied with a small laughter. He glanced over at Levi who had an annoyed look on his face. One that said, "Hurry up and get off the phone."

"It's really late and Mikasa and I are very worried about your safety."

"I'm fine. Plus Levi's here with me so I'll be okay."

"Like I said before, I'm worried about your safety."

Eren could swear the volume was down at a maximum. But Levi could still hear the other line and he spoke up. "Don't worry , Eren's fine I've kept my hands off him," God how Eren wanted to smack that lying smirk off his devilish face.

"I want you home by one forty-five. Any later and so help me."

"So help you what?" Levi asked.

He spoke calm, a little too calm for Eren's liking. And the words Levi spewed, it made his heart sink into his stomach.

"Don't start with me. Don't touch my son!" Levi stood up and rolled his eyes. Quickly, he snatched the phone from Eren.

"Don't worry your pretty little head about it. I already have. As a matter of fact, I took his virginity. You have a good night , I'll have your son home by three."

* * *

A/N: Writing this chapter was such a pain! This was boring and dry... I'm gonna go hide my shame... Next chapter expect to see the maid's dress... and yaoi and then the chapter after that I'll get back on track with less procrastination. And hopefully I won't get bombarded with school work again -_- I will pray I'll have the next chapter up around Wednesday or Friday

Song: Wicked Games by The Weekend

I'll do review response next chapter because I'm really exhausted. Love you guys and thanks for the support!


	18. Chapter Seventeen: Salted Caramel

The yelling was unbearable. As soon as Levi's car pulled around the front of the café, the last thing he could remember was his mother's ear bursting screaming and being held tightly in her bear hug embrace. You know, how hard is it to keep your damn mouth shut and wait patiently for Eren to get off the phone with his over protective mom?

Apparently arduous since Levi couldn't resist the urge to piss off Carla.

Speaking of the short bastard, he did nothing. Literally. He leaned against his car, zoning out Carla with his arms crossed while staring blankly in her face with an annoyed, irritated expression. Half the time Eren knew he wasn't listening because he would stare past Carla. He didn't care she was yelling at him and he didn't bother to argue back or put up a fight.

He knew this time would come, he knew Carla-IMustKeepMySonSafeAtAllCost-Jeager would freak out and do this. He was prepared for the backlash and was completely nonchalant about it.

He didn't care because she couldn't do anything to Levi but it would be Eren to go through the suffering. And dear God did he suffer.

After Levi hopped in his car and said a simple "Good night." Carla dragged Eren inside and his night began.

First, he was sat down on the couch, listening to his mother lecture him on being in love and starting a family and her not wanting him with Levi but with Mikasa or somebody else who wasn't Levi. Then she went on about wanting grandchildren an wanting Eren to marry someone who won't by him through hell and upset him. So simply, Eren agreed just to end the conversation. Then, he was marched upstairs for a full body naked search for anymore marks and Eren couldn't go against it. So when it came down to it he had to act all nonchalant and pretend like his mother wasn't exzaming every inch of his body in search for any evidence that leads to Eren and Levi's "encounter." But on the inside, his pride and manhood had been stripped from him and he felt completely embarrassed and there was no denying it.

And you think it'd end there. Well, hate to break it to you but you're fucking wrong.

At least he got to bathe himself and dress himself but he couldn't sleep in his room. His mother didn't trust him enough.

He had to sleep cuddled up with Carla. Struggling to breathe since his mother's chokehold was so strong. This is what he gets because of other people's stupidity while Levi gets to sleep in his deluxe bed, in his own room without somebody holding him like their trying to keep a bear in place.

Somehow, Eren managed to fall asleep. And the next day, he woke up by himself because his mom was downstairs making breakfast. And he thought he'd have a few hours to himself but he was dead wrong.

At least ten minuets after he woke up he got message from Levi saying Mikasa was coming to pick him and to be ready.

But Mikasa was already downstairs. He could tell because his mother's voice was cheerful and she was making small talk and offering her food.

Eren went back to his room, grabbed some clothes and showered quickly before heading downstairs.

"Good morning," Carla greeted, sipping on her coffee slowly. Eren responded with a "Good morning," and sent quick glance at Mikasa before heading into the fridge and grabbing some juice.

"Eren, we have to head over to Levi's house." Mikasa said.

"Why?"

"Erwin, Hanji and Petra are over there. We're preparing for Celeb Feast and going over statistics." Mikasa through he purse over her shoulder and grabbed her keys.

"That's it?"

The woman nodded. "It should take at least an hour but it depends on Erwin."

Eren put the orange juice back into the fridge and looked at Carla. "Can I go? I shouldn't have to ask for your permission because I'm nineteen but I don't want what happened late last night to happen again."

Instead of looking at Eren, she looked at Mikasa. "Would you mind watching Eren? I don't want him sneaking off with Levi and doing anything he won't tell me about."

Eren groaned and rolled his eyes.

"I won't mind. Come on Eren."

"Come on Eren," he mocked quietly in a girly voice. "You know, I'm not a dog. And if I do anything I won't tell anybody anything because its my body and my business!"

"I don't care. You're my son, you are to listen to me!" Carla retorted.

"Yeah, whatever. I may be your son but you can't keep babying me and acting like I'm twelve. I'm fucking nineteen and I need to grow up and get away from you."

"Eren-!"

"What? Did I forget my bottle? Do you want to spoon feed me breakfast?" Carla stood quickly. But Mikasa stood up quickly and marched over to Eren, grabbing him by his wrist and dragging him outside. Leaving the dark, awkward tension in the air.

**~•~**

"Why are you driving Levi's car?"

"What the hell is wrong with you?!" Mikasa shouted.

Eren tried to pry his wrist free of Mikasa's grasp but she held it firm in place. "Let me go!"

"Shut up, Eren. What's wrong with you? What was with that sudden outburst?!"

"God, not you too." Eren groaned, he snatched his wrist free and opened the door to Levi's car, wasting no time to get inside and slam the door in Mikasa's face.

The woman sighed and marched around the car and got behind the wheel. Inside, she sat there for a moment, taking a quick glance at the teen who was on his phone. She put the keys in the ignition and started up her brother's car. After a few seconds, she pulled out of Titan Chronical.

They drove in silence. The only sound was Eren's somewhat shaky breathing. After a short period of silence, Mikasa spoke.

"Do you like Levi?"

"No." He lied. He set his phone on his lap and looked at the woman. "I don't. "

"Then why are you so defensive where Levi's concerned?"

"I'm not defensive for Levi. I'm defensive for myself."

"Is it true?"

"About what?"

"You lost your virginity to him." Eren almost choked on his own spit. No joke she was Levi's sister. That straightforward, flat voice was a dead giveaway.

"I didn't do shit with him. He could go die for all I care."

"Watch it," Mikasa warned.

"I'm just saying. Levi and I have no sexual relationship with each other. We do nothing with each other. This is just for the audience and soon, this'll all be over and you guys won't see me ever again..." Lies. Pure lies he spewed from his lips. And it almost made him feel terrible for what he was saying. He was lying to everybody. Mikasa, Carla, himself...

Mikasa turned into Bellasina Lakes and typed in the code to access the community. Once the gate was open, they drove inside and headed towards Levi's home. A few lefts and a couple of rights heading to the back right of the community and finally, they pulled into Levi's driveway.

Erwin's car was parked on the far left with Petra's car parked next to it. Then there was Mikasa's car parked behind the two vehicles so she parked Levi's car next to her's.

Eren noticed that Levi had opened the door and walked outside. His hair was slightly messy, but not a strand look out of place. He wore jeans, a gray zip up jacket and a black tank top underneath. Which was strange clothing for this weather. But his jacket looked sturdy enough to support him. He leaned against the door and waited for them to come inside. Mikasa was out the car first. She got out the car and gave Levi back his keys followed by a hug.

But Eren stayed inside the car. He only stared at Levi. In which Levi stared back as well before he rose his brow for a quick second.

"Are you coming in or what?"

It felt nice to be out of the café and away from his mother and around Levi and the others. Even though Mikasa was watching him like a hawk. But other than that, it felt really nice to be here.

They all sat in the kitchen. Levi read over some paperwork while Petra, Erwin and Hanji discussed Celeb Feast preparations.

"How is the dance coming along?" Erwin asked, taking a seat in front of Levi. The man looked up for a second and continued to read over the details.

"The little shit over there is fucking up the routine. But other than that its alright."

"How are you messing it up?" Hanji aksed. "Is it because you can't handle your boner?!"

"I ah- no! I-it's not that... I just can't dance..."

"No, you're just not confident in yourself. Once you have that down packed, the routine will look a lot cleaner. Also you need to remember the choreography." Levi informed.

"I'm sure he's trying his best with it," Erwin assured. "But the event is in two weeks so I expect by Saturday to know your routines at the back of your hands."

"I'll try my best... But Carla isn't gonna let me out the house after the little stunt Levi pulled last night."

"What did he-"

"Hey, you know, its not that important," Mikasa interrupted Hanji. "We're here because of Celeb Feast so we should get back on topic."

"She's right," Erwin said. "First off, I've been sent paperwork and I've heard Celeb Feast is being hosted in San Diego, California. Currently your spot for trending is 33. Meaning you went up eleven positions. You have two weeks to fix that. By December 18 at 11:59 PM is the last moment to grab a position in the top 10 or else you guys will not perform. I've decided to let Petra do your clothes for the performance. She'll be collaborating with Aaliyah for your Celeb Feast preparations."

"Mhm," the ginger haired woman hummed. "I'm still think about what you two should wear... Oh! And Eren, I'll need your measurements."

"R-right now?"

"No, I haven't finalized a sketch yet. But when I do, I'll need you to come in so I can take your measurements."

"Oh... Okay."

**~•~**

After they went over everything for Celeb Feast and Erwin gave all the information they needed to know, Petra, Erwin and Hanji left. Leaving Mikasa, Eren and Levi inside the home to themselves.

Eren and Levi weren't allowed to sit next to each other, they weren't allowed to go in the kitchen together, they weren't even allowed to look at each other without Mikasa getting in the way.

This went on for about an hour and a half until Carla called to check up on them. Her and Carla talked for a little bit before Carla asked to speak with Eren. Simply, he denied the request and said, "I'm not talking to you. I can't even talk to Levi who's sitting right next to me. So I'm not talking to you."

Carla responded with, "This is why I don't want you around him. He's such a negative influence on you. This disrespectful act you're putting on is not you. You're only trying to get approval from Levi and I don't like it."

"You keep asking me if I like him, what about you? Do you like him, you're probably the one who wants to get on his dick!"

"Eren!" Surprisingly, both Levi and Mikasa shouted out to him. But Mikasa was the first one to make a move. She stood up and slapped Eren, and when he was about to stumble back, she grabbed ahold of his collar and pulled him forward, shoving her phone into his chest.

"Apologize."

"No."

"Eren!"

"No, Mikasa. Don't waste your energy on him. He's always been a trouble child. And he's going to need me one day. He'll regret everything one day."

"I'm coming over," Mikasa said in the phone. She hung it up and shot a death glare at Eren. If only looks could kill. Eren would die the most brutal, painful way possible. She let the teen go and walked to the kitchen to gather her belong's and left without a single word.

Eren turned on his heel to see staring at him with his arms crossed. He didn't look surprised, he wasn't in awe, his expression was blank. Almost as if he was thinking of something, as if he was lost in a deep thought.

The teen opened his mouth to speak but Levi cut him off.

"What the hell was that?"

"What do you mean?"

"Don't play innocent with me. What the hell was that bullshit you just spewed?"

"I didn't mean to say that... It just slipped out... And it was an accident, I never think when I'm pissed off-"

"And that's the reason why we can't be together."

"Wait, you can't be trying to blame this one me. You started this bullshit. If you could only keep your mouth shut this would have never happened."

"Yeah but you only made it worse."

"Big fucking deal! None of this would've happen if you didn't want to piss somebody off all the time!"

"I hope you realize if we ever make this relationship more... This will be a full-time thing. My shitty attitude will never end." Levi said calmly. He walked around the couch and sat down.

The words caught Eren out of track. His eyes widened for a moment and his breath hitched on his throat. "What was that?"

"Clean the shit out of your ears. You're the one always talking about developing a better relationship."

"N-no I'm not! Don't change the subject!"

"I'm sick of arguing," Levi said, grabbing his phone off then unlocking it. His fingers moved around rapidly and he showed Eren his screen. "It's unattractive to lie. Especially when I have proof."

He scanned over the messages and rolled his eyes. "Yeah, whatever. Okay, big deal."

"You made a mistake, Eren," Isabel stretched her back legs before hopping up on Levi's chest and snuggling comfortably. "It doesn't matter if I piss off your mom. You need someplace to live. I'm set. Your mother cares for you, no matter how much you try to sugarcoat if. You may be nineteen but you have the mental capability of a nine year old."

"I can take care of myself-"

"Yeah, but for how long? You don't have a car, you don't have your own home, hell, you probably lost your job because of your stupidity."

Eren sighed and walked around the couch collapsing next to Levi. He rested back against the couch and closed his eyes. "I didn't lose my job."

"Yet." Levi said, glancing up.

"How about this. Since I said what I said and there's no way I'll be able to head back to the cafe... Can I stay.. With you for a while...?"

Levi looked up, narrowing his brows as he scratched behind Isabel's ears. "Where'd you get that idea?"

"We always talk about a real relationship. A-and maybe since I messed up I could stay with you... J-ju-just for one night!"

Levi thought deeply for a moment. Its been years since he's last shared his bed with anybody. Since he's slept next to anybody. Unless Isabel counts...

Plus he's already had sex with him so how would sharing a bed with him feel awkward or strange?

"... Fine. Just for one night but tomorrow, you're outta' here."

**~•~**

Yes... This was awkward... Terribly awkward. He didn't realize how strange it would be laying next to the little shit...

Sleeping with Isabel was a much easier task than this!

He wanted to turn over but if he did he would be smothered under Eren. It would a lot easier to push him out of the bed and make him sleep on the floor. Or underneath the bed if it made him feel better.

Sleeping with Petra wasn't so hard. It was comforting actually. He could actually put his arm around her due to the slight height difference, but with Eren it was like a sea-lion trying to make love to a zebra while kissing a giraffe. It just doesn't look right and it'll end terribly.

"Why do you keep moving so much?" Eren asked slightly annoyed.

"Because you're too big."

"..." A rapturous uproar of laughter assaulted Levi's eardrum, making him growl under his breath. "What's so damn funny?"

"It's too big! Haha!"

"Grow the hell up, Jaeger."

"I can't tell what you're talking about! My dick or my height compared to yours! Ow! Okay, that was unnecessary!"

"It was a pinch."

"On my nipple!" Eren squeaked. Levi chuckled in his throat and sat up. "Anyways, what I meant to say was you're freakishly tall-"

"Compared to you."

"I... Gah... Yes... Compared to me..." Levi scowled under his breath. "But with Petra, I wasn't towered by her. And it was easy to sleep next to her."

"So what you're saying is, you can't sleep next to me because I'm too tall?" Eren asked slowly, a slow arch of his brow.

"Yeah, that sums it up..."

Eren smiled softly and snuck his arms around Levi's waist, pulling his smaller form closer to his. "What are you-!"

"Feel better now?"

Levi shifted, snuggling deeper against Eren. He looked up and rolled his eyes. "I guess this... Works...?"

"What if Mikasa walks in?"

"Then we're fucked." Levi said bluntly.

"What if mom walked in-"

"Do you want to get caught?" Levi interrupted, he turned so he was on his back and his lips were close to Eren's jaw. "This is disgusting."

"But you like it~" Eren cooed.

"This makes it look like you're the man of the relationship and there's a problem with that."

"Why? I could be the man! You're smaller than me! A-a-and you'd look cute in a wedding dress!"

"Don't fucking start with that shit."

"Come on, think about it. You have fair skin, you have a short stature, you're kinda cute when you're not pissed off all the damn time. Just imagine when you blush!"

"How am I cute?! And I don't blush."

"Because look at you... You're like a cute fuzzy ball of anger,"

"Shut the hell up."

Eren nuzzled his chin on the top of Levi's head. He laughed when he heard the smaller male groan and growl under his breath.

"Just think about it. If we get married,"

"If we get married." Levi stressed.

"I think about it sometimes but I know it won't happen."

"Then why do you harp on this topic? Its annoying."

Eren shrugged. "It just comes to mind. Like I think of a beach wedding overlooking the ocean at sunset. I wouldn't mind a wedding that's ocean themed! I think it'd be beautiful."

"Pfft, you think everything is beautiful, I think I'm gonna throw up."

"You think it's gross because you're a depressing void on the inside."

"Your opinion, not mine."

Eren tightened his grip around Levi and placed his lips close to his ear. "How about you? What do you think about me?"

"As in as a person or thoughts?"

"In your thoughts."

"Hm... Well I can't say I've thought about marring you yet. But I have thought about fucking you."

"Oh _that's new_." Eren said with installed sarcasm complimented with rolled eyes. "I _haven't__ heard that one before._"

"No, I'm serious. You're pretty good for a virgin. Even though I did most of the work, it was pretty good. You're a lot tighter than a woman."

"Is that all that goes through your head?"

"Honestly? No. Not all the time. But I was quite surprised."

"Thanks?"

"What? Can't take a compliment? This is why you don't have confidence in yourself. You probably can't dominate me. You'll just be a bore and sloppy."

Eren furrowed his brows and unlaced his arms, quickly sitting up. "What was that? A bore and sloppy?"

"I didn't stutter." Levi sat up and crossed his legs.

"I've never had the chance to turn you on."

"Because you can't."

"How do you know, you've never given me the chance to do it!"

"I don't have to. You can't turn me on, you don't know how to top. That's why you'll always bottom."

Eren stood quickly and smirked lightly. "You're just scared."

"Of what exactly?"

"Me topping. Because I'm better. I can turn you on."

"Don't get cocky in something you haven't tried and can't do."

"I can turn you on," Eren repeated like a stubborn child.

"The only you can turn on is a light switch."

"Then let me top."

"Right now?"

Eren nodded his head, proceeding to push Levi back and crawl on top. He stared in his eyes for a moment, trying to think of what to do. Levi only waited patiently for his next move. Eren took a sharp intake of breath as an idea sparked in his head.

"Say Levi,"

"What?"

"Do you still have that maid costume?"

* * *

A/N:Thanks for the positivity~ Oh my shortcakes, I love you guys. Did you know that? And I thought I should give a smutty, cosplay reward. Did you guys think I forgot about Eren's little present that backlashed? Nope. Ohhhh, we get to have a dominant Eren next chapter. And awww, Levi and Eren's marriage talk! I'm sorry, I read an Ereri doujinshi and Eren wanted to marry Levi and he starts to say how cute he'd look in a dress and dear God that uke Levi made my heart melt into a puddle of feels! It's smut but its still kinda cute.

And whooooooa, Eren! You can't talk to Carla that way!

Anyway, I just got home and I just finished the chapter. Plus, expect smut next chapter.

Till next time, stay sweet.

Review Response:

Hibary-Hiwatari: First off, what yaoi are you writing cause I reeeeally wanna read it xD and next chapter will be sexiness~ and. I know what you mean about the typos. I read the chapters like two or three days later and I feel like shooting myself in the head for the mistakes I made! And trust me, life prevents me from writing chapters half the time.

angellovsyaoi: Yes he did. Believe it. Just wait until she sees him! And thanks. I write Levi like this because I've read a lot of fanfic where Levi is too sweet to Eren and he let's people walk over him with poor retorts back. Exactly why I had to make him sassy and bitchy xD

hawtphoenix: Thank you a ton! I'll try to update asap.

DOACookiMonstr: Aww thank you! Don't thank me, I should thank you. You guys are the reason why I'm still writing chapters for this. Seriously, I love hearing your feedback. :)

PurpleOmpski: Well we got her reaction and Eren's backlash. Thanks for the review.

MaggiexxLove: We got Carla's reactions... But I'm afraid to know how she'll respond to Eren after what he said

ShouraiLink: The only reason why I can nail Hanji and Levi and a few other's personalities is because I pull it from my personality and everybody has a bit of Levi in them. Trust me. And thanks for the kind words~ And I know what you mean by reading a fanfic with such potential and give it up. And sometimes I don't want to write chapters but I force myself and get into the flow of it. And I don't plan on giving this one up.

Beloved Nightmare Union: I make them long because I can never stop typing and because I have a chapter limit I want to stick to since I broke the 20 chapters only limit. And Isabel and Farlan did die I think its stated around Chapter Three: Sugar Cookies. But yeah, they died in a car accident actually. And thanks for the praise! It's because of the amazing support you guys give me! BTW, hope you feel better! I had a cold earlier today and I could not stop sneezing.

KissyMissyx: I really like the song. And you're right, it kinda does describe their relationship. Thank you.

TheSwordHolder99: I can't lie, when I started writing this I thought by now I'd still be an anonymous writer with a growing fan base but dang was I wrong. I'm surprised every time I check the stats and seriously you guys are waaaay too sweet. ^.^

Glasses: I usually write funny endings cause I always think I did bad in a few chapters so I use humor to make up for it xD

Guest: Thanks for all the reviews. And Rivetra is my Notp too. I don't know, I just couldn't see it happening. It was still sad when she died though...

piscesgirl123: I just said "Meh, he could do better," because the dialogue I used for Carla's commentary on the photoshoot would get me kicked out, banned, shamed, and wanted dead by the entire Shingeki Fandom. Most likely the Levi fangirls...

Mitchell343e: Levi's humor is a part of me which is why he's so easy to write. Plus I personally think Eren wont die by getting eaten by a titan or doing something heroic. He'll die from a heart attack because the anger in that one character is just... Wow... Don't ever sleep! Fanfic are life! Sleep is for the weak! Unless you have school the next day because I stayed up one night till 3 am reading fanfics and I have to get dressed for school at 5... Yeah...

Shadowlove'scookies: Thank you for the support, you're too sweet.

xKireyy: After Celeb Feast, you'll find out who drugged Eren. And a lot more stuff will go down...


	19. Chapter Eighteen:Passion Fruit ::Rated M

Either Eren gained weight or the costume has shrunk because it was _way_ shorter than before and a lot tighter around his waist. He felt cold and vulnerable. He tied the bow in the back and tugged at the itchy skirt? What is going through his head? Didn't he remember what happened last time he wore this?

...

...Wait...

The last time he wore this... He could remember him getting sick and heading to the restroom.. But everything after that was a blur...

He stood still for a moment, trying to recall his memories but got as far to the bathroom, throwing up and passing out...

"Eren, are you giving up? You've been in there for twenty minuets." Levi's voice snapped him out of his gaze and he narrowed his brows a little.

"N-no, I'm not giving up!" Now was the moment of truth. These fucking dreaded black heeled shoes. He took in a breath of air and took his first step forward. To his surprise, walking perfectly. Now, only about 40 more steps to get to Levi.

Great.

He stared walking, placing one foot in front of the other with shaky, unstable steps, occasionally using the wall for support. He slid open the closet door and Levi was sitting on the bed, a bored look in his eyes.

"Its about time. You took too damn long."

"Well, I'm here now- Whoa!... So quit your bitching..." He took slow steps to Levi, proud when he was finally in front of him. His maid dress was short, going half way above his knees and barely covering his ass. Every time he moved the thin material would flutter, causing chills down his thighs. The top part of it wasn't any better, the poofy cuffs around his shoulders were annoying and the top was too tight around his chest. Eren pushed Levi back, gracefully crawling on top and putting his legs on either side of the man.

"I want to top but I should give you a few minuets of freedom."

"Sounds like you're quitting."

"I'm not quitting," Eren smiled, leaning closer to his face. "I'm a maid... So you're to order me... Master..."

The way Eren purred "Master," in Levi's ear was shivers run down Levi's spine and a small smirk to grow on his face. Levi, unintentionally, snuck his arms around Eren's hips tugging him close. He slipped his hands underneath Eren's skirt and tried to stroke him, but Eren figured he would do that, so he stopped him. "No touching."

"I'm to order you. Remember?" He asked with an arch in his elegant brow.

"Yes," Eren said, shaking himself free of the man's grasp. "But I don't feel like giving you that luxury. So," he slid off Eren and tugged down his skirt teasingly. "I think I should clean. You're room's a mess."

Bullshit. Fucking bullshit. Levi's room was spotless. Nothing was out-of-place, the floor was shining, the room was organized. He remembered he saw a feather duster inside the closet and decided to use it.

He cautiously walked inside the closet, heading to the back, grabbing what he needed, and walked back out. He made his walk look agile and poised, talking long slow strides as he was closing adjusting to the heels. He looked around the room looking for anything. The teen spotted the nightstand and walked over to it. He bent over teasingly, making sure to put his ass and lace underwear, that surprisingly fits better on him, on full display to Levi's leisure.

He dusted the nightstand, humming a small tune as he cleaned the area. He swayed his hips softly. Acting innocent as if he was playing a harmless game.

Well, if the game was harmless, Levi couldn't wait to join and fuck it up. It was cruel that he had to sit back and watch the brat act like this. It was torture for him because he wasn't allowed to touch him, kiss him, tease him, pleasure him... Devour him...

He grunted softly. Hearing this, Eren stood up and turned with a soft smirk on his face. "What was that?"

"What was what?"

He looked up Levi's slightly pale face and his sharp, narrowed eyes. "Oh, I see. You can't handle the fact you're not in control."

"Bullshit."

"Fine then, Master," The ocean eyed boy but down the cleaning item and walked in front of Levi, he then bent over so their faces were hovering over one another. He then began to grind his hips slowly and passionately. The smirk on his face grew as he spoke. "How about this? Let's play a little game, shall we?" Eren slid off Levi, landing with a soft thud on his heels. He unbuttoned Levi's pants, stripping him of them just enough to get to the desired area. He pulled down his boxers and watched Levi's length spring out, tensing feeling the sudden expose to the air.

"You want to be in control? If you want me to be your slave, then prove to me you're always gonna be the boss of me. Prove even though you're aroused by me, you won't give me the satisfaction."

"What the hell are you talking about?"

Eren moved forward, cocking his head sideways running his tongue along the almost unnoticeable bulging vein. "You can't moan. You can't touch md and most importantly, you can't cum." He moved his tongue along the base before finally lacing his entire mouth among the length.

He bobbed his head slowly, listening to the man above trying to stifle back a moan. His tongue swirled around the head, occasionally taking hard sucks at the sensitive organ.

Eren took a few more strong sucks at Levi's length and finally broke contact, blowing on the wet cock to send shivers up Levi's spine.

Eren looked up, setting his arm between his legs and rubbing his crotch on his arm softly to arouse himself. He gripped Levi's cock and gave if slow, pleasured strokes. "Levi,"

"What?" His voice came out rough and strict. Eren thumbed the slit, obviously irritated with this. This was getting nowhere so far. If he was gonna top Levi, he was going to have to break him. And acting coy while doing so wasn't going to do the trick. He was a complete bitch to Mikasa, and he must be considered a bastard child to his mother so why the hell give Levi the luxury? His job was to dominant him. Eren's goal was to have Levi withering underneath him... Not the other way around.

"... Swap clothes with me."

"What, why?"

"You'll see..."

**~•~**

"Slave," Levi stood in front of Eren, trying his best not to choke Eren for putting him in such a humiliating situation. "I want a blowjob." He stood in barefoot on the cold floor in front of Eren, his garter holding up the panties around his lower body while the uncomfortable object inside his ass mocked him.

The dress fit perfectly on his lithe body. It fell to his thighs and his ass peaked a little from underneath the skirt enough to tease Eren. The white silk stockings complimented his legs. The shoes weren't in his sizes so he stood in stockings before his "master." Well, he couldn't complain. Eren had to do this once... For about five minuets before he bitched out. He'd much rather be in Eren's position.

He had it easy.

He sat on the bed, completely naked, waiting for Levi's loving. It was much better than wearing the same fucking dog collar he put Eren in on Halloween was around d his neck and at any given moment the teen could yank the chain and command him to do what he wanted.

Levi raised a brow. "Excuse me?"

"I didn't stutter." Eren pulled the chain, pulling Levi forward. He smiled lightly as the smaller male stumbled on his chest.

"Since when have you become my master?"

Eren gathered a handful of Levi's locks, pulling him down so his lisp were gazing the head. One more forceful tug and Eren would be inside Levi's mouth. "Since we made this little bet."

"Who says I have to listen to you?"

"I did." The teen pushed Levi down on his length, taking in a sharp take of air as Levi's mouth greeted his cock with a warm mouth followed by a slippery tongue and a surprised grunt. With his hands, he tried to remove himself from Eren but the boy above kept a firm grip on Levi and if he kept struggling like this, Levi would choke. And if Levi died like this, Eren will never be able to sleep again.

Ever.

"Suck. We're not gonna get anywhere if you're gonna be stubborn. I might as well punish you the entire time." Levi groaned around his cock. He bobbed his head up, taking a moment to calm himself before moving down. With his right hand, he forced Eren's hand off his head so he could more freely. He picked up the pace a little once the extra weight was lifted off him. His tongue swirled around Eren's length, delighting in the way he twitched to his touch. His mouth surrounded him, pulling him in.

"Nhghn, Leeevi~" Eren moaned, tossing his head back.

Unintentionally, his hand intertwines with Levi's locks once more. This time, pulling him further down onto him and forcing his erection deeper into his throat.

Levi nearly gagged, but he kept pleasuring his partner.

There were still so many things Eren didn't know about Levi. Now he was beginning to wonder if being dominated was one of the man's major turn-ons. Levi now had that opportunity with Eren. Maybe he was just comfortable enough to ask Eren for that kind of stimulation, or maybe he just never felt like it with any of his other partners. Either way, Eren felt like he'd soon be seeing a whole different side of Levi; and he was so sure he was going to like it a lot.

"L-levi..." Eren moaned, opening his eyes slowly to be greeted by the cute raven haired man on his knees. His steel eyes stared up and he hummed, "Hm?" Around his cock to get Eren's attention.

Levi broke contact with the organ. Heavy pants came from the man below. Levi sat like this for a bit before using his skillful tongue to lick at the base, sending small shockwaves of pleasure to Eren.

"I-I...ah~ T-touch yourself." The words came as a shock to Levi. He didn't know if he was just hearing things or if that actually came out the brat's mouth. It's not like he wanted to. He was far too prideful than to touch himself in front of others. He's ever even done it for himself. Masturbation seemed too... Desperate for Levi. Hell, all the boys around his highschool constantly bragged about their length size and how they are "Sex Gods" and Levi just thought they were complete futile, ridiculous idiots. They might be the reason why he wants Eren to mature into a better person...

God, the things he'll do for this kid...

"Where should I touch myself then?" The words came out like a spill from Levi. His tongue stopped it's actions as he waited for his next command.

Eren thought for a moment. He smiled lightly as he took Levi's hand and pulled him up onto his lap. His arms lockers around his waist and pulled him close.

He kissed the shell of Levi's ear. "Finger yourself for me," Eren whispered into the man's ear, moving his other hand to grip the fine hip, landing a heady kiss on the man's jaw. Levi hummed darkly as he chewed his bottom lip. Eren's hands found their way underneath Levi's dress feeling the silk of the stockings and the milky, creamy skin that was Levi's inner thighs. He rubbed a few circles dangerous close to his crotch before slithering Hus hands up and to the hem of his panties. Without warning, he quickly discarded them and placed Levi against the pillows.

The man sat with his legs closed, shivering as the cool air danced on his member.

"Pleasure yourself for me,"

"Breathe a word of this and it'll be your last." Levi opened his legs slowly. He wasn't one who was ashamed of their body nor was he the type of person who thought sex was humiliating and shy of it. So why was this such a new, bitter feeling? Was he seriously opening up to Eren? He, more or less, was giving into Eren. Before he began, Levi went into the nightstand no more than a few inches away from him and grabbed a bottle. He squirted some lubricant on his fingers, slicking them.

Levi reached down with his hands and worked his fingers between his legs.

Eren sat back, a smirk painted across his face as he crossed his arms and waited for the scene to continue.

He watched those pale eyelids slip shut as Levi's shoulders and arms went to work, finding the right spot and pushing in, a soft whimper leaving those already moist lips. Eren could see Levi spread his legs a little more, trying to find a good angle as he pushed in deeper. Pain was escalating through his body but undeniable pleasure was circulating inside as well.

"Put in another finger." Eren demanded.

"Y-yes... Master..." Levi's voice was thick and threatening towards the taller male. but it wavered heavily. He added his second finger, stopping for a brief moment to adjust to the hole stretching. It went like this. He continued to pleasure himself as Eren demanded he add more fingers and reluctantly, Levi agrees.

Eren looked down, watching as he thought he saw those long fingers go even deeper. He knew Levi was trying to fins the right spot. Levi's body craved extra attention. He could tell by the way he threw his head back. The way his body twitched Evey once in a while. The way he tried yo bite back his sweet little moans, it was sad Eren had to sit back and watch.

"How many?" Eren asked.

"Huh?" Levi asked unintelligibly, opening his eyes slowly to look at the teen. The boy crawled forward between Levi's legs, pressing his lips to the crook of the man's neck.

"How many fingers have you got up that delicious ass of yours?"

There was a small shudder from the man as Eren rubbed his inner thigh, occasionally running his nimble fingers along Levi's cock. Then he heard something fall from Levi's mouth that he didn't think he'd ever hear, not even in sex. Levi stuttered, "Th-three,"

"Impressive," Eren praised. "You've been a good boy," Eren moved his hand over Levi's hand and pulled him out. Levi felt the fire die a little without his fingers keeping him alive. Instead, the feeling was replaces with Eren's cock slowly pressing at the entrance, shyly.

He's never done this before. This would be his first. What if he hurt Levi? What if he did something wrong? What if something bad happened like last time? He didn't want another remake of a few months ago... He didn't want to suffer that experience again...

A million possibilities ran through his mind as he simply stared down the man waiting.

"Don't... Over think it." Levi said simply.

"I'm not..."

"Pfft, yeah right. You were going strong a few moments ago. Then you just stopped. You're obviously thinking of something."

Eren shrugged, running his hand along Levi's jaw. "Will you be alright with this?"

"Why are you asking me? You're my master, how do I have a say in this?"

"Well..." Eren started, his voice trailing off. "It's your body."

"You're right. But I'm not protesting against it."

"..." His sea colored eyes ran over Levi's face, examining every inch of it until he finally stopped at his check. His eyes narrowed questioningly. His hands moved over the chubby flesh.

"What?"

"...I'm sorry..."

Levi blinked. "What are you talking about?" Eren mumbled a small, "Relax," before pushing forward, watching Levi tense up dangerously and cling onto Eren for dear life.

His hips moved against Levi. He smiled lightly as he watched the once, abrasive, unapproachable male whither underneath him like a flower blowing through the wind.

"E-re-en…" Levi mewled. "Er-en. Er-e-e-ennn!" Eren leaned forward and locked his lips onto Levi's own, swallowing those beautiful cries and wasting no time in shoving his tongue down the other's throat, tasting and mapping out the gorgeous mouth, humming loudly when Levi gripped his tongue with his lips and started sucking on it.

Tears did form in the corner of Levi's eyes but Eren's mouth distracted him immensely.

He broke away for a second, his lips hovered above Levi's. As eren spoke Levi could feel his lips move against his. "I'm sorry for all the pain I caused you... I'm sorry for cutting your face with a vase. I hope I can show you how much I truly do care for you. You're an old dick."

Levi looked up, and nodded. "Its he-ah!...Healing a-anyway. I'm not making so much of a big deal about i-it. I don't c-are about it anymore... A-and I guess I c-care to you too, you little shit." Levi was breathing heavily, turning his head so he was resting against Eren's shoulder and kissing the tanned neck. He could taste a lingering salty flavor. Similar to sweat. He hummed, moaned and mewled Eren's name, the syllables sounding more and more incoherent with each pleasure thrust.

Eren was having a difficult time believing that this was only their second time.

"Aha!" Levi's breath hitched and his grip tightened on Eren. He hauled himself up on Eren's lap, wasting no time to began moving his ass to his own rhythm. "H-h-hit that spot again."

Eren blinked confused for a second and grabbed a firm hold of Levi's ass, positioning him a few times before Levi moaned his name in ecstasy, realizing he found that delicious spot again.

His voice grew higher and higher as Eren abused a certain spot inside him. Eren only grinned, continuing to abuse Levi's prostate. Eren could already feel the effect he himself was having on the man, feeling the light sheen of sweat forming on Levi's skin. His moth was ajar and his tongue hung out slightly. His small body was becoming limp and sensitive. It was delicious to watch.

Levi buried his face in Eren's shoulder when he finally came. His ass become tighter around Eren's cock as he did so. And not too long later, Eren pulled out and came on Levi's lower stomach, ruining the costume with his semen.

Their erotic pants filled the air. Levi shook softly on Eren's lap and he mumbled, "Thanks for not coming inside me."

"I was afraid you wo-would do som-something bad i-if I did." He stuttered sleepily. He collapsed back, no longer able to support Levi's weight. Levi fell on top. He looked like a baby from Eren's prospective.

But he quickly dropped the idea when their lips met. A mixture of sweat and saliva filled their taste buds as they explored each other's mouths with no shame. There was something so different about that kiss, their lips pressed together, moving lazily against each other, tongues only making the smallest of appearances. Eren wanted to commit it all to memory, but was sure he'd be forced to forget by tomorrow. So, only the now mattered. He had a few hours to be by Levi and only Levi. This was their time they'd be allowed to be with each other with no interruptions. This was about them.

"O-oi, Eren," Levi mumbled, setting his head on Eren's chest listening to his erratic heartbeat slow down. "What made you remember all that? The doctor said... It would be a while.. Before you'd remember..."

"The maid dress made me remember."

"You're a fucking weird person. Y-you know that?"

Eren smiled and wrapped his arms around Levi's body. "Good to know. You still fucked me though."

"Mhm. You did an okay job."

"Okay?" Eren squeaked, sounding slightly offended. "You were the one moaning and squirming!"

"Whatever. Tell anybody about this and I swear."

"You'll ride me again?" Eren tried with a small sly smile.

"Hell no! Just don't tell anybody."

"Don't worry," Eren cooed. "This is our dirty little secret."

* * *

I didn't want to end it here! But I was afraid it was going to be run on so I stopped. I little rushed, I can't lie but practice is about to start so I'm sitting in the bathroom finishing this xD Uke!Levi was done! Which one do you like better? Uke!Eren or Uke!Levi?

And Eren got his hospital memories back and I'll be interpreting more of that in the next chapter (but not a lot) Eren was supposed to wear the maid dress but I thought it would be weird having Eren top Levi in a dress so I switched it out. Next chapter, they'll be back in the studio and the plot will start driving forward again from there.

Thanks for all the reviews, follows and favorites! I can't thank you guys enough.

Review Response:

Glasses: Definitely xD lol, do you mean that in a good or bad way?

Bittersweet Alchemist: I was trying to steer clear of Simon Curtis but as you can tell I failed. I thought that song worked great so I had to use it.

TheSwordHolder99: I love that doujinshi. It had a littler bit of everything and it was beyond cute. I can't believe how good it's doing on Wattpad! Thank you very much for sharing it :)

ShouraiLink: I try to add more detail just to try to keep it down to earth. And thank you

angellovsyaoi: I thought this chapter was all over the place sometimes :P

NanoWorker: It'll okay if you just stalk the fic, I don't mind. Something in the future will happen but it won't be bad. And don't worry, I ready fanfics during class. I just can't do it in math since my seat's assigned in the very front :P Haha, and if we met in real life, we should Han out (I have like 5 dogs already xD)

Hibary-Hiwatari: I figured your main language in Spanish a few weeks after you started reviewing. xD And yes, Eren will grow some balls in the near future.

PurpleOmpski: Thank you. I'm trying to add as much fluff as I can.

Beloved Nightmare Union: Honestly, it'll be pretty hard to patch that up. And she's giving a warning just to spook Eren. I love Carla for being overprotective because some parents don't do that until it's too late.

Mitchell343e: She's overprotective. Like every mother, but she won't give him freedom due to the past. She lost her husband and she doesn't want to lose her son too.

Nee Kuchiki TT3TT: They're gonna have to bond sooner or later. Mommy-boyfriend hatred can only last so long~

Syaoran837: Mainly, the story is T. But I but rated M in the chapter names and I usually five warnings before the chapter starts or in the chapter before. Next chap will be full of feels, trust me.


	20. Chapter Nineteen:Almond Croissant

Nerve wracking would be an understatement to describe their dance rehearsal. Levi was in clear pain from yesterday, meaning he was allowed a short break. Also meaning that he would have to step up his game to impress Aaliyah. She shouted a whirlwind of commands at Eren. For such a small person she sure had a boisterous, leading voice. She fixed Eren's posture for what felt like the millionth time in the span of ten minuets. She corrected his errors, shouted out when he missed a step and groaned when he was off beat.

Finally, Levi stepped in and began to guide Eren through the dance. This was it. Celeb Feast was next week and he only had seven days to fix his mistakes and clean up the dances.

Eren had to admit he did improve. He finally mastered one dance. That routine was Love me Harder and thank God for the simply choreography. Levi was doing most of the work while Eren looked like his bitch. Levi's words exactly.

He didn't care though. If this was anything else besides dance, he would protest against such statement.

They now moved onto their next dance which was their main dance. This dance would be performed on the night of Celeb Feast unlike Love Me Harder which was being performed on the second night which was Promos.

The dance was titled "Undisclosed Desires" by Muse and my God did Eren have trouble with this dance. Even Levi stumbled over his feet a few times.

It started with Eren sitting in the middle of the stage then Levi would walk up behind him and when the lyrics started, his hands would move along Eren's chest while Eren's head looked in the other direction.

Then by the second beat, Eren would be facing the crowd back in his original position.

Of course the dance went along as it should. Eren managed to stay in sync with Levi for the most part with a few slips. But when it came down to the chorus, Eren became a stumbling mess.

Before the chorus started, they stood a few feet away from each other, completely in line with each other, and facing the audience. When the lyrics,_ I want to reconcile the violence in your heart_, Eren almost tripped over his own feet before almost tripped over Levi's foot because he went in the wrong direction. He failed to keep up with Levi's pace, he didn't follow Aaliyah's directions and he looked timid and alarmed. He looked somewhat... Frightened doing partner work with Levi.

At I want to exercise the demons from your past, Eren mixed up his steps and turned the wrong way, ending with him colliding with Levi and falling to the floor.

"Eren!" Aaliyah's voice sounded as soon as the music came to a quick stop. "What's going on? You're a train wreck out there."

"I-"

"You're a stumbling mess Jaeger. Not even I'm fucking up this bad,"

"Shut up," Eren spit unexpectedly.

"Tch. Whatever, brat." Levi said with a roll of his eyes.

"He's right," Aaliyah said, defending Levi. She crossed her arms and spoke. "You were doing fine earlier. Is something bothering you?"

"Pfft, no. And its none of your business if something is!"

Aaliyah remind silent for a moment and sighed. "How about we take a lunch break? We'll meet back here in an hour, yeah?"

**~•~**

Once Eren and Levi walked out of the studio, they could feel a small tension lurking. It wasn't tense but it was there. And as soon as Levi closed the door to his car and started it, he knew something was bothering Eren. A wrong move could add gasoline to the kindling flame.

Simply, he pulled off the studio property and onto the main road before he asked, "What do you want for lunch?"

"McDonalds."

Levii chuckled in his throat and shrugged. "Alright." They drove in silence for a while but Levi continuously glances at Eren and noticed he constantly checked his phone. With an occasionally groan.

"What's wrong with you? Why are you acting like this?"

"Like what?"

"Just yesterday you were talking about marriage and me in a fucking wedding dress." Levi deadpanned, with a slight roll in his eyes.

"Yeah..." Eren mumbled. He sat up and fixed his posture. "Well, I feel bad..."

"Specific, please?"

"... My mom... Is one of the reasons I feel bad. And last night when you fell asleep, I kept remembering when I was in the hospital and how vicious I was towards mom and now I just... I feel terrible..."

"... I see... You remembered more?"

"Hm? Y-yeah, I did..."

"Tell me about what you remember."

Eren nodded, sitting back and thinking quietly, allowing his thoughts to rummage through his mind as he tried to reminisce his experience. He let out a low hum as he looked up.

"I remember being really drowsy. Like I was really sleepy. In my head I wanted to go asleep but my emotions kept me up and gave me energy. A-and I felt detached from myself. I remember my dreams, clear as day... But in real life, it was really hazy. "

"How about your health?" Levi asked. "Do you remember anything about it?"

"Like what? What do you wanna know?"

"How did you feel? Any pains whatsoever?"

"Mhm," Eren nodded quickly, smiling a little at Levi. "Yes, actually! I had a lot of hallucinations of my dad. I thought he was there with me. He would just sit in the chair across from my bed and I had to sit up to get a better look at him. He didn't say anything, he just stared. I stared at him too and when the nurses came in, they would ask why I'm staring blankly at the wall before forcing me drugs so I would fall sleep. I also had difficulties breathing sometimes and my heart rate would speed up tremendously."

The man nodded, allowing his words to sink in. "Anything else?"

"...I tried to kill myself."

Levi's foot accidentally slammed on the break, causing a quick jerk in the car. He looked up. A mixture of confusion, worry and mostly anger painted his eyes. This was probably the second time Levi showed a spark of emotion other than stoic or somewhat annoyed or angered. Last night was probably the first time Levi showed any type of emotion towards Eren...

"You did what?!" Levi nearly screamed, shooting a threatening look at the boy. A look that demanded an answer. Immediately.

"I didn't _do_ it, I said I _tried to_." He stressed.

"Don't be a smartass with me. Explain yourself."

"Well... I thought you knew about this."

"Shut up and explain yourself," Levi said lowly. Eren could hear the rough edge to the man's voice and he decided to choose his words wisely. "I tried to kill myself because I was starting to withdrawal from... PCP? Right?"

"You're correct, continue."

"And I wanted more of it but I couldn't have it. And the nurse told Auruo and Petra that since the drug is flushing out my system, my mental state will be unstable as I try to adjust while craving the drug. I was going through psychological dependence, craving, and compulsive PCP-seeking behavior. Long story short, since I couldn't have the drug, I tried to kill myself... A total of seven times. It's strange when you think about it, seven unsuccessful attempts."

"You're a real trigger, Jaeger. You wonder why I call you immature and I can't trust you with drugs or alcohol."

"It's not my fault!"

"I know... I know," Levi said, trying to calm down Eren. "And it upsets me. I still have no fucking idea who drugged you and it pisses me off."

"Don't worry about it, I'm still here," Eren said with a small smile.

"Still here to annoy the shit out of me, you brat."

"I'm still your brat,"

"You're still a little shit."

"Hm. I do my best,"

"Cocky, are we?"

After they got their food, they headed back to the studio.

**~•~**

"Count the beats Eren!"

"Stay in sync with Levi, Eren!"

"No, Eren!"

"Don't go in Levi's direction, Eren..."

Eren, Eren. Eren, Eren, Eren, Eren, Eren...

God how he wished he could change his name... This was beyond annoying and no matter how much Eren begged to go home, or otherwise known as Levi's home, Levi deadpanned with "No."

So he was stuck here until Aaliyah was tired of trying to choreograph the number and direct or babysit Eren and decides to call it a day.

The dance was growing on Eren. He wasn't afraid to admit it. He was greatful he was the man in this dance unlike Love me Harder. He got to control Levi. The main point of the dance was for Eren, the man of the dance, to fall into Levi's temptation, the woman of the dance. And basically, it was supposed to start out a rocky relationship and develop into one that's more sensual and exotic... Maybe even slightly erotic since at the end of the dance Levi was to straddle Eren while both of them are almost naked. Almost. Giving off the illusion they had sex.

He had no idea how the whole idea was going to work on international live TV, but the scene seemed to play out flawlessly in Aaliyah's head. And if she had the Recon Agency, most specifically Erwin Smith on her side, this was bound to work perfectly.

Once the song came to end, Aaliyah's voice echoed through the room.

"The dance has a few technical errors here and there. But other than that, it's impeccable. I must say, I'm proud of you two. And you guys improved from day 1."

Both boys noticed she began to pack up her belongings and tied her hair back into a loose bun. She looked somewhat exhausted. And as she chugged down her water, Eren said, "Are we done for the night?"

"...Yeah. I have my master class to attend to. So if you want to practice more, I'll leave the room to you guys." She threw a towel around her shoulder and headed towards the exit. She said a quick "Goodbye" before leaving the large room.

The room was left in silence. And he spaced out for a few moments but he didn't realize it until he heard Levi slumping against the wall and to the floor. Eren turned around and he raised a brow when Levi motioned him over.

Eren walked over and sat down, staring at their reflection in the large mirror across the room allowing everything to settle in.

Levi scrolled through his phone and mumbled, "We're holding number 31 now. Do you remember what eyebrows said?"

"Who's eyebrows?"

"Erwin, you dumb shit."

"Oh... Y-you mean what he said about Celeb Feast?"

"Yes."

"What did he say?"

"It's not what he said," Levi said, standing up and dusting himself off. "Its what I intend to do."

Unintentionally, Eren scooted back against the wall, his eyes widened in alarm. "We're not doing anything else. I've gotten into enough trouble and it was all because of you."

"You get yourself in trouble. I didn't tell Carla she wanted my dick."

"Shut up," Eren squeaked. "I feel like shit, okay?" He stood up.

"Just trust me for once?"

"... Last time you said that we had sex in your car."

"Big deal," Levi said with a roll of his eyes. "We have to do something to get in the top ten."

"Okay... What do you... Have... In mind..." Levi could the fear in Eren's shaky voice. He shouldn't do anything to haunt the poor brat now. His mother already held a vengeance against him, he was struggling - but improving - to learn a new dance. So why add more burden on top of that? He loved messing with Eren. It's what kept their relationship alive besides sex and talking to each other. It helped Levi get to know Eren a little better but sometimes... He has to give it a rest.

"I'm not going to hurt you. As a matter of fact, this is something you seem very confident doing."

"... What are you getting at?"

"Let's make a quick dance."

"Why?"

"It'll be a preview of what we'll be doing for Celeb Feast. Plus captain dickbag wants to see how the routine looks."

"I don't want to learn another routine..."

"Eren, it's a short video maybe twenty to thirty seconds long."

"But it's only going to Erwin. Why do we have to do something different? Why not show him the dance we already know?"

"Because, I know him well. He's going to send the photo in and before we get to perform everybody will know what song we're performing to and how it looks like."

"... Do I wing it?"

"Mhm," Levi snuck his arms around Eren's waist and suddenly, a firm slap was given. "Do what you do best, brat."

~•~

After every thing was said and done, they headed home. Though during the car ride a small argument sparked and it resulted Ina heated car ride home. When they reached Sinadonna, Eren was the first one inside and upstairs ready to collapse to bed.

"What the hell are you doing?"

"What does it look like I'm doing, I'm going to bed."

"Are you insisting on sleeping in my room in my bed?"

"Yeah?"

"I never said you could stay here," Levi said, stripping himself of his jacket. "You're heading back home tonight."

"I am home..." Eren muttered, pulling the sheets over his head. He rested there for a moment, inhaling the lavender scent Levi used to wash his sheets. That smell vanished suddenly when the sheets were pulled back and he was yanked out of bed.

"Hey!"

"You're going home,"

"No!"

"Stop acting like a little shit, Jaeger. I said you could come over to get something to eat not invade my home."

"Technically, this is our home - Whoa!" Eren was pinned to the door, Levi staring daggers into his eyes. "Who said this was your home? I don't see your name on the mortgage, light bill, water bill, so in what way do you own this home?"

"Because you got me kicked out of mine."

"I dont know who the hell you think you are, but you're going home. I don't need police and an angry mother planning to murder me because her son wasn't home by curfew."

"I'm staying,"

"Get out."

"No."

"Why do you want to sleep with me?"

"Isn't that what every couple does?"

"Yeah, when they're married."

"...You and Petra weren't married."

"This has nothing to do with Petra!"

"Yeah, but, its true. You're just mad because I'm not Petra. Because I'm not the ginger whore who's laying under Auruo as we speak-"

A hard, fist connected with his teeth surely causing blood. Because he could swear he felt the world shake and shatter underneath him as he fell and tears whemled in his eyes. He felt a tight grip around his collar tugging him up with a tremendous amount of strength and soon, a cut off of air clenched around his throat, only squeezing hard with each angered word.

"L-Levi...?" Eren breathed out. "Y-You're..sque...ezing too ha-ha...rd..."

"Why the fuck do you have to bring Petra into this you little shit? Do you like to make me feel like shit? Do you like to hear about my failed love life from the past? I couldn't give a damn if she's fucking Auruo. I fucked _you_! I fucking rammed _my_ dick in_ your_ ass and you didn't say shit then. And now that you can't have your way you're going to bring up Petra? This is exactly why you can't go home Eren, you're a fuck up. You fuck up everything. Including our relationship,"

The grip around Eren's throat loosened and he fell to the floor coughing, struggling to gather his lost breath. But he wish Levi kept his murderous grip around his windpipe when he heard the worse thing to possibly come out of his partner's mouth.

"Oh, and by the way, the only reason I dated and fucked you was to get back at Petra."

* * *

A/N: What have I done?! I can't even right now... That last part literally killed me and it came out at the last moment because I'm just a twisted person...

Celeb Feast is next chapter and it'll be split into three parts representing each day of the event...

Eren Y U say that to Levi?!

And Levi... I could fucking hit you :(

Thanks for all the positivity! Thanks for the reviews,follows and favorites everybody! So I'm not going to stay long. Next chapter might take around two weeks maybe? Maybe less.

Review Response:

imperfectionist4242564: Thank you very much! Warms my heart to know you're liking it so far. Thanks for reading.

Glasses: I'm afraid this fic is going to get a little twisted as the chapters goes by... Honestly.

Guest (Nov 9): I need the shortie topping. I'm waaaay too used to it and I wanted to change it up to keep it fresh since most people read it with Levi topping... Including me. Thanks for the review.

Guest (Nov 6): Thank you. It makes me smile to know you're enjoying this fic :)

X FIRE NIGHTS X: Its hard seeing Levi uke, I know how strange it feels. Thanks for the review.

SellAFandom: I do have an Instagram actually, it' Intricat without the spaces. It's in my Fanfic profile as well. I post anime stuff mostly.

TheSwordHolder99: I was writing it while resting during soccer practice and other times I write it in my notebook during class and act like I'm taking You have a nice day as well :)

Mitchell343e: Carla and Eren soon will forgive each other but after this chapter I think we need to mend Eren and Levi's relationship more than anything

Beloved Nightmare Union: He's feminine to me too, don't worry. I'm not into a submissive Levi either. And it was a strange transition for me. And yeah, things started to heat up. Thanks!

PurpleOmpski: Trust me I have a lot more chapters to go.

ShouraiLink: I couldn't help myself honestly. Its easier writing Levi as seme because I'm used to him topping but I wanted to step out of my comfort zone. And don't worry, not pervy at all. Me and my friend's entire conversation on Kik was legit R-18 Ereri pics.

Nee Kuchiki TT3TT: Agreed. They act like children sometimes xD thanks for reviewing

NanoWorker: I'm so happy I'm not the only one who cries watching kids movies. Let me tell you the first ten minuets of Up I was a wreck in the theater. Oh the feels, yes, prepare yourself for them because after chapter 21, you might need a tissue box. Oh and what movie did you watch?


	21. Chapter Twenty: Triple Decker Cupcakes

**48 Hours before Celeb Feast**

Did Levi just say that? Of course he did. He was caught up in the moment and the little shit deserved to hear it. Was it necessary? No.

Did he mean it?

Hell to the fucking no.

He was caught up in the moment and let his anger get the best of him. Was it the right choice? No. Did he regret it? Terribly.

And it only made him feel worse because after he said that and watched Eren's reactions, he dragged the teen out into the hallway and slammed the door behind him, curled up into his bed with no remorse whatsoever.

He slept like a baby that night. After the sudden out burst of energy he slept soundly. He was exhausted, yes. His heart wanted him to crawl out of bed and pull the brat into his embrace, comfort him, and fall asleep with Eren in his arms. He wanted to do the right thing. But his brain did the opposite.

The next day when he woke up, he found Eren sprawled out in on the hallway floor. The kid looked like a mess. His hair was messy and clamped up because that was one of the places Levi grabbed to drag him out. His clothes were disarray because that was another source Levi used to haul him out his room. His face was red and puffy from crying, snot dripped from his nose and his face was stained with dried blood from his nose and upper lip from where Levi had hit him. Not to mention the red marks around his neck.

His anger fueled the attacks and he felt bad. But Levi wouldn't be the bigger person.

Instead, he carried about his days as if Eren wasn't sitting next to his room looking lifeless and limp. Honestly, the kid looked like a rotting corps. His once vivid sea colored eyes have fallen dark and dull due to the loss of sleep and crying.

Levi didn't look too hot himself.

The rings under his eyes have gotten much darker over the span of a few days. He couldn't sleep with that sickening feeling whelming in his chest and choking him at night. Knowing Eren was sitting outside his bedroom door wasting away when he could be next to him in his embrace.

But as stated before, Levi would not be the bigger person.

Because Eren was in the wrong. If he listened and just went home...

He gave Eren food occasionally. Sometimes he would eat because he was starving other times he couldn't be bothered.

But the night Levi finally said something was when he came home with groceries. When Levi put away his groceries and went upstairs to get Eren a snack before dinner, and he was gone.

He panicked on the inside but kept a cool composure. He finally calmed down when he heard the shower running in the guest room. He walked inside the room, which was about half the size of his, and set Eren's food down on the large vanity before waking over to the bathroom door and knocking. He didn't get a response so he decided to enter.

He looked around, obviously Eren had been in there for a while because steam frosted the bathroom mirror. "Eren," he mumbled.

Again no response.

This made his stomach churn. He sighed heavily to alleviate the pain in his stomach a little before sliding opened the frosted shower door to see the teen, looking frail, fragile in weak sitting the corner of the shower, allowing the hot water wash at his tainted skin.

"I called you, you know," Levi said bitterly.

"..."

"... Why are you in here?"

"Showering obviously, what does it look like?"

Levi swallowed his bitter retort. Instead he slides the door back and walks over the mirror. Running his hand over the surface to clear a spot so he could see his reflection. He looked like a corpse who's been rotting in their grave for centuries and ran over by a pick up truck. He couldn't believe he went out looking like this. He wore his sunglasses as usual but they could only hide so much. His sunglasses couldn't fix the imperfections that marked his face. Sunglasses couldn't fix the disgusting, horrid, worsening dark marks underneath his eyes which made him look triple his age. He had to take sleeping pills before he went to sleep and they wouldn't knock him out for the entire night. So he would stay up, stare at the dark void and bitch to himself. The last time he had to take pills for insomnia was after the bad news with Petra. But even then he was able to stay asleep till the next day.

Now, he would have to pop triple his usual dosage of three for better sleep and pray he'll wake up the next day.

But sometimes, after he took the dangerous amount of pills, he hoped not to wake up the next day just to not see Eren suffer. Then maybe when Eren walked in and saw him dead, the teen would just leave or set the house on fire or something and say it was an "accident". Anything so he wouldn't have to see Eren's pain.

But that'd be taking the easy way out. That would be putting more grief, guilt, and burden on Eren.

And that was the last thing he wanted to do.

So, Levi would have to man up and face his demons. Even if it killed him inside.

"Eyebrows- eh... Erwin contacted me earlier and said he wants us at The Recon Agency at two. That's in an hour so you need to hurry up."

"Why does he want us?"

"Celeb Feast is Friday, dumbass." Eren's heart skipped a beat when he heard the crack in Levi's voice. He sounded like he was holding back a lot of feelings.

"... How long have I been here?"

"Almost a week," Levi answered quickly. "Today's Wednesday and we're flying out tonight..."

"I see..." Eren mumbled. He brought his knees up to his chest and put his chin on his knees. The water ran through his tangled locks. His scalp still hurt a little from Levi's abuse. And to think he was still waiting for a sorry...

**~•~**

"Eren, are you okay?"

"Hm?" Eren looked up, utterly dazed and confused. Erwin was staring at him. Along with the Hanji, Aaliyah, Rico, Hanji, Levi, Pixis, Petra... His eyes adverted from Petra because he couldn't bare to look at her. So he turned his attention to the beautiful blonde man in front of him. "Yes, I'm fine. Tires is all," he half lied.

"Try to stay awake, I can't have you looking like a lost dog during the event. Now, I've just discovered that Celeb Feast is being hosted in Las Vegas. Not Los Angeles. Check in time is at 11:00 to 11:30 AM for personal registration. Then at 12, you two will head around back, get into the limo and taken around front for introductions. From there, it's all on you two. Intros will last until three. Next, you'll head back to the hotel and take a short twenty minuet break before heading down to a private studio near Grand Central Parkway. Your coach, Aaliyah and Petra will be there with you from three forty-five until ten forty-five PM. Any questions for tomorrow's schedule?"

"What hotel will we be staying at?" Levi asked.

"Downtown Grand Las Vegas. I'll go over room arrangements on the plane." Erwin explained.

"When is our flight?" Levi questioned.

"Today at one fifteen, so we should hurry this meeting along."

Pixis stood and handed a few paper to Rico. "Good luck tomorrow night. And at promos and the main night. I've made the decision to stay back and attend to duties in the Garrison Building. I also have a meeting with a few clients in Italy so I'm afraid I cannot go. Again, I wish the best of luck and I will be watching. Lets go, Rico."

**~•~**

Eren was astonished by the plane. Never in his life has he ever been inside a plane. Especially a plane this luxurious! Unless making a fake plane from cardboard boxes when you're 7 in your parents room counted as luxurious.

This was the first time he made a different emotion from dreary,dull, lifeless and zombified in days. He looked around the plane, his mouth ajar as he took in every square inch of the plane. Erwin said an "Excuse me," when he squeezed past Eren, he sounded as if he was laughing. He looked at Eren.

"It's about time you changed that face."

"Hm?" He said snapping from his gawking. "O-oh, huh, I never been inside a plane before..." Eren mumbled, looking down. He sounded ashamed of his answer.

Erwin sat down in his seat, nodding to himself. "You're lacking confidence, Eren, that's not like you."

"Yeah... I know..."

"Take a seat, boy. You can't stand when we take off,"

Taking the blonde man's advice, he trudged over to the leather seats across from Erwin and took a seat.

"Is something bothering you?"

"No." The teen lied. "I-Im just tired is all..."

"Is that it? Your words are one thing. They can only go so far-"

"I'm okay! Its nothing, alright?! Its nothing, don't worry about it, it doesn't concern you."

"...You're right. In no way are you incorrect about that. But if your feelings get in the way of Celeb Feast-"

"It. Doesn't. Concern you! Leave me alone!"

The plane fell silent. Eren snuggled back into the seat and seethed. Hanji, Petra, Aaliyah, and Levi all boarded the plane. Hanji, the most excited of them all. Not once did she take a break from talking about Las Vegas or plans for Celeb Feast or about performers, everything about this event she rambled on about. Occasionally she took a breath, but continued in a split second.

No matter how annoying Hanji was, Eren was happy that she continued to talk. It kept the plane upbeat and it informed him on what he'll be experiencing and some pretty interesting places he was thinking about visiting in Vegas.

In no time, he fell asleep. More than anything, something that he desperately needed was some sleep.

And when they landed, he would've stayed asleep if it wasn't for Hanji's excited outburst and Aaliyah pushing him to wake up. It was already dark when they landed and Eren felt like he work up in a foreign country. It felt strange being awake in a place you knew then waking up in a totally different atmosphere.

When they got off the plane, they were greeted by a man in a black tuxedo holding the door for the back of a large white SUV with dark tinted windows.

They all got inside. Eren more sluggish than everybody else. He notice Levi continued to sneak glances or just hold a stare but Eren refused to do the same no matter how much he wanted to. No matter how much he wanted to run up to Levi slap him, throw a few insults, then kiss him to make it all better.

It's what his heart wanted. He wanted to put a band-aid on the crack in their hearts and mend it together.

But that wasn't how it was going to happen.

Ever.

Levi said what he said and personally to Eren, it's what he meant.

His head spun a little when the driver took the car out of park and began to head out of the air port. He blinked, his eyes stinging as they headed out into a city of bright lights and extreme sights. He was enticed by the new atmosphere and trying to take in every inch of it. The city was decorated for Christmas. Not a nook or cranny was left untouched. Everywhere screamed Christmas spirit. And to think he actually forgot Christmas. Hell, he forgot it was December.

Levi, seeing Eren's curiosity to his new surroundings, found his lips trying to twitch to a smile but held it back. But he did chuckle a little. He even tried to put his hand over Eren's but quickly scratched the idea from his thoughts.

"We'll be at the hotel in less than 10 minuets so let's go over the room arrangements. We'll be sharing our rooms. Each room has two beds so I don't think there should be any arguments, right?"

Levi noticed Erwin turned and his eyes focused on him and Eren and unintentionally, he reached out and touched Eren's hand. But the teen retracted it back and turned his body so he would be facing the window.

Levi then narrows his eyes at his boss and mumbled a quick, "We got it, eyebrows. Continue."

"Hanji and I will be sharing a room. That'll be room 606 on the top floor. Then Petra and Aaliyah will accommodate room 608 across the hall and Eren and Levi will be sharing room 610. Agreed?"

Everyone agrees but no response comes from Eren and Levi who both fume, distressed and mumbled under their breaths.

"Do we all agree?" Eren said a little more stern, turning his body so he was looking from the front seat to the back, directly at Eren and Levi.

"D-do we have to share a room?" Eren asked quietly.

"It'll look peculiar if you're not staying in the same room. Paparazzi is everywhere. They all want the latest scoop and we can't afford a slip up. Plus,you don't have to sleep in the same bed."

"Alright then..."

"Since that's settled, our schedule is very tight.

When they pulled around to the hotel, there was a small crowd waiting outside for them. So it took about fifteen minuets just to make it inside and another ten minuets to find the front desk in such a huge complex, five minuets get registered at desk, about two minuets to get to the top floor and about a minuet to get inside their rooms.

Eren felt like he was going to pass out now.

Holy fuck. Were the rooms beautiful. The room was decorated Sophisticatedly and stylish, the colors contrasted perfectly with each other giving off a comforting, home life vibe that Eren really liked.

Man, only if his mom was here. She would never want to leave...

...

...

"Mom!"

How could Eren be so stupid?! He forgot his mom?! He just traveled millions of miles from an extremely overprotective woman who won't even let him tie his own shoe (not literally) into Las Vegas of all places and he forgot about his own mother.

_The Carla Jaeger._

The sane woman who he treated badly...

And now he gets to roll up in a hundred-dollar bed, take a shower in a shower where _who knows what_ celebrity or high-class person showered in!

He gets this luxury for being a complete dick to everybody while his mother, who worked hard her entire life, is still stuck in Rose Capitol in a coffee shop probably worrying for her son right now...

"What, did you shit yourself? Stop standing around and get unpacked, we're leaving in 15 minuets."

Eren turned on his heel, a sharp glare in his eyes thrown at Levi before he said, "I need to call my mom."

"I'm not stopping you. The phone is on the desk."

Eren nodded, looking around the large room to find a large desk settled in the corner with small cabinets, pens, pencils, erasers, a pencil sharpener and a black telephone not looking the least bit out-of-place.

He walked over, picking up the phone with caution and staring at the buttons for a moment before punching in the numbers to Titan Chronical. His stomach tightened and quenched as the phone rang.

_One ring._

_Two rings._

_Three rings._

"Hello, this is Titan Chronical... Marco speaking."

"Eh? Marco?"

"Eren?" Marco said sounding slightly confused. "Where are you? We're all worried. You've been out of school for a week, he missed a lot of classes. Did you get a new phone? The caller ID is saying-"

"Look, something came up and I haven't been feeling well lately... Where's mom?"

"Um... She's in the kitchen. Do you want to talk to her?"

"Yeah..."

There was a brief pause, sounds of Marco calling for Carla came through before finally, he heard his mother's voice.

"Eren?"

He felt his heart twist and ache, finally being able to hear his mother was such a relief. But hearing how shaken and soft it was made him want to break down in tears.

"Hi mom..."

"Eren, where are you?". She sounded a little panicked.

"I... I'm sorry..."

"About what? A-are you hurt?! Who's with you?!" Her voice hiked up an octave.

"I'm sorry about everything that I've done. Everything that I said, you're right, I do regret. And no, I'm not hurt. I'm just tired is all. And I'm with Levi... And Erwin, and Hanji... Oh and P-petra... And Aaliyah..." His voice died down a little saying Petra's name. He made sure to keep it low since Levi was in the same room and he didn't want to start anything again.

"I see... Where are you exactly?"

"I'm... In a hotel... In Las Vegas..." Eren murmured the last part, barely understandable.

"What?"

"I said I'm in Las Vegas right now."

There was a silence. He didn't have to be in the sane room as his mother to know her eyes were narrowed, her eyebrows were furrowed in confusion and her thoughts were tumbling through her mind trying to piece together and decipher everything Eren just spewed.

"Las Vegas? Is that a code for something?"

"N-no. I'm actually in Las Vegas... Like, Las Vegas, Nevada. There's a casino below us in the main lobby." Eren laughed awkwardly, trying to lighten the atmosphere a little.

It helped a little, thankfully. His mother giggled but he knew she didn't believe him.

"Where have you been these past few days? I called you many times but it went straight to voice mail. Mikasa wanted to go check up on you and... Levi... But I said to leave him be for a few days but honestly, I truly am worried."

"I fell a little ill so I stayed at Levi's..." Eren lied. His voice shook a little. He slid into the black office chair and rested back, ready to continue their much-needed lengthy conversation. "But I'm feeling much better now. And we left for Las Vegas this morning because the first day of Celeb Feast is tomorrow."

"Celeb Feast? It's this week?! It's almost Christmas!"

That stung Eren for some reason. He actually forgot about Christmas and he probably wasn't going to be back home in time to celebrate with his mother. He prayed that wouldn't happen but he had to be prepared for what might come up. Only if she was here...

She would be able to see the Las Vegas decorations around the city... She would be able to celebrate the holiday's with Eren... And now that he thought about it, this was the first time he left home by himself without his mother's knowing. The only time he would be able to go anywhere out of the city would be field trips with his classes for Marine Biology or when he hung out with Armin and the others. But it was rare they ever left Rose Capitol. And now that he was away from home, it all felt strange. It felt different... And to think he always wanted to leave home.

Was this what independence felt like?

Is this what if felt like to be away from home?

Imagine if he moved away. Would he still feel like this?

It almost felt sickening.

But as he thought about it more, it almost felt too good.

"Eren? Are you still there?" Carla's voice rang through his eardrums, knocking him out of his thoughts.

"Mhm, I'm here. And hopefully I'll be home before Christmas. I promise."

"Don't make promises you can't keep. Remember that."

"Oi, brat. We're leaving now. Wrap it up." Levi called.

Eren groaned and sighed. "Hey mom, I'll try to call you back later tonight. There's a lot we need to do for tomorrow so I might be busy. If I can't call you back tonight, I'll try tomorrow night... And if not tomorrow night, I'll call you before the show because I'll need a lot of luck."

"That's fine by me. I'm just happy I got to hear your voice. I'm sorry for all the trouble I've caused you. And I'm glad you were the bigger person and apologized first, that's how I know I raised you right."

Eren smiled at her words. How long has it been since he's last cracked a smile this big? He even felt like crying!

"Thanks... A lot... I'll talk to you soon. I love you."

"I love you too, sweetie. Goodbye, Eren."

**~•~**

When they arrived inside the studio, Eren, for the millionth time today was astonished by the many unforgettable attractions that is Las Vegas.

Inside the studio looked so exotic. Well, not only the studio but the many trainers and their students looked exotic as well. Some wore vivid, stunning costumes while practicing their dances, most likely preparing for a competition or maybe even Celeb Feast. While the others wore regular dance where, but they still shined. They were much better than Eren. They were better than Levi. They outshined Aaliyah.

They were trained better than the duo, that much was true. They may have even had more experience in the dance world and experimented with different techniques, music and such.

But they definitely weren't from Shiganshina. Especially with the way they trained and the way their students danced.

Once Eren, Levi, Aaliyah, and Petra checked in, they were taken to a room around back. From the outside, it looked like such a small, room you were entering. But inside, was a completely different world.

A different story completely.

Don't judge a book by its cover. Never. Because the room was about as big as two of Levi's home.

There was a chandelier handing high in the middle of the room, there were two large mirrors plastered on both walls, parallel to each other unlike Aaliyah's studio.

But Eren didn't have too much time to gawk, he was immediately put to work. Aaliyah has her stuff set up quickly. She went through a quick five minuet stretch exercise before putting on the first song and watching them go through the routine.

...

Where was their energy? Wait, no. Energy wasn't the right word. Where was their charisma? They looked like they couldn't stand to be near each other for more than two seconds.

They were still in beat with each other, Eren falling out-of-place a few steps, nothing she couldn't fix... But then again, the dance was seriously missing something.

It felt dull.

_Boring._

There was no pull unlike a few days ago when it looked like they didn't want to let each other go.

But Aaliyah remained silent, watching the dance go on as it should, calling out their mistakes every so often. Once the music came to an end, she couldn't help but narrow her eyes and exhale a deep breath. She knew both males waited for her input even if they didn't say anything. But instead of giving her constructive feedback to them, she simply turned to Petra. The hazelnut haired woman was watching the dance as well through the corner of her eye as she set up her rack with the small line of clothing she created for the two.

"What did you think?" Aaliyah asked, directed at her co-partner. Petra looked at her confused for a moment before blurting out an answer.

"I-I thought it was alright. I like the music."

"Mhm... I see... I didn't ask about the music though, I asked about the routine."

"..." Petra looked at both Eren and Levi. "I think it looks really nice. Its a clean routine and you both did good."

"You're too kind," Aaliyah groaned, she stood up and walked over to the two males who now turned around. "Be honest. Give some insistent denunciation. I've already spotted the error that'll mess everything up. I just want some back up and make sure I'm not the only one who sees their mistake."

"...Well, I don't think they're good duet partners. I-I mean, uh, I mean, they dance well its just, I don't think they're right together for this dance... Maybe if we brought a female lead in and mix if up-"

"No, that won't work. We can't bring in another dancer now, it's too late."

"I mean, they work well together. Especially in the photography sessions, they produce beautiful photos... What's happening here?"

"I agree. You two are dancing like two separate dancers instead of one. When doing a duet, from the audience's perspective it's supposed to look like they're watching one dancer perform their own solo. Except, there are two dancers. You can be in sync with one another, and I must say you guys are staying in sync perfectly. But you may perform the dance flawlessly but it'll look monotone and robotic if you're not giving off the right emotion. This song is supposed to be about love, but your faces and actions are saying the opposite."

"..."

"We have charisma. We're just-" Eren tried.

"Prove it." Aaliyah challenged, crossing her arms. The teen sighed heavily and looked at Levi who stared back at him with dark, intimidating eyes. Eren's lips pursed for a second before saying, "Before we left Rose, we did a quick dance. We were going to post it so people would have something to talk about but we were going to wait for tonight to do it. It's on my phone."

The woman raised a brow. "Let me see your phone."

"I don't have it."

"Why not?"

"It's back at home... Well... On top of the bathroom counter in the guest room."

"Good fucking job, brat." Levi blurted, whipping his head around to meet Eren's eyes. "We might as well stop now because there's no way we'll be performing on Friday. Just like everything you fucked this up."

"Don't start that bullshit with me again, I'm not a fucking fuck up, you old bat!"

"I'm not dealing with Erwin's shit because you forgot your phone on the bathroom counter. You're unreliable."

"I wouldn't have forgotten my phone if you-"

"If I _what_?" Levi tried. His eyes narrowing and his voice.

"If you weren't such a fucking dick!"

"Will you two stop acting like that? No wonder why you have no charisma, you guys are probably constantly fighting when not in the studio."

"We're just not compatible," Eren shrugged nonchalantly, as if Levi wasn't there and they didn't just get into a small argument. "Simple as that."

"That's not what you showed me a few days ago. You two have some type of pull to one another. You guys are close. Don't let something stupid come between it."

"Pfft, whatever. I don't have time to be deal with that brat. And we never had anything with each other, like he said." Levi mumbled, he leaned against the mirror and crossed his arms.

"Look, you're going to need something to hype your names up to the top ten in about... Fifteen minuets... Do you think you can do that routine again? Plus I'd love to see what you two came up with. Maybe it'd light that flame again?"

So, reluctantly, they agreed. They went through the dance as if it was nothing, while Aaliyah angled her phone to a low point of view and to the left of the two.

They were surprised they both remembered the dance. More like they were surprised they were this close to each other. With each swift movement, every grind, each turn, their partner work was gorgeous. The way Levi lead Eren through the dance only made the younger boy crave his touch more.

Levi was alluring. No matter how much he hated to admit it. No matter how much he wanted to hit Levi and leave the studio after everything he went through. He wanted Levi.

Question is, did Levi feel the same about him? Or does he want to run back to the woman who shattered his heart years ago?

Eren didn't notice the dance was over until the music cut and Levi's hands were gone.

And once again, Levi's touch was only a ghost lingering over his skin.

* * *

**_Celeb Feast_**

**_Day 1: Introductions_**

Late last night, around 11:53, when everybody got back to the hotel from the studio and headed off to bed, Aaliyah went through her phone and wasted no time to post the quick dance online. She captioned the video with: _Anybody else want to see these two show up at Celeb Feast?_

And no more than six minuets later was everybody talking about it. Commenting on the video, sharing the photo, adding _"ErinAndLeviAckerman"_, "_ErinAckerman_", and _"LeviAckerman"_ hastags. There was end to the reign of fangirls online boosting them up the charts.

When Eren woke up the next day, he was surprised to see how busy his room was. Everybody was in the room. Levi paced around, half-dressed. Petra was organizing everything for Eren and Levi, Aaliyah was talking with Erwin about the video from last night, and Hanji was making sure everything remained on schedule.

Eren just sat up with a big yawn. He looked around watching everything happen. When Erwin finally noticed he was awake, he spoke up with an impressed smile.

"Good to see you're awake. I'm sure you'll be happy to read this," The blonde man walked from where he was and handed a small back envelope wrapped with a white bow on it. The front of it read Erin in large white letters.

How long was he famous? And they still didn't spell his name right...

Once he opened the letter, he skimmed over it.

_Erin Ackerman, you have been invited to an all Celebrity Performance Event dated December 20th - December 22nd. This event is being hosted at Bellagio in Las Vegas Nevada. __You've landed **number 3** on the **Top 10 Most Trending in America** and **number 8 Most Trending Internationally.**_

_December 20th - Introductions: Check in is 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM. Introductions start at 12 noon and will last until 3 PM; Introductions is just a simple way to showcase all the celebrities and different entertainment who will be attending and performing at Celeb Feast._

_December 21st - Promos: Check in is at 7:30 PM. Promos start at 8:00 PM. That is also when filming from inside where Celeb Feast is being hosted will begin. Advertisement for the performing celebrities will be shown that night. (Music Videos, photos, previews, small performances etc...)_

**_Performance Time: 8:45 PM  
__Performing: Love Me Harder by Ariana Grande ft The Weekend  
__Partner(s): Levi Ackerman  
__Dance_**

_December 22nd - Celeb Feast: Check in is at 6:15 PM. The event begins at 6:30. (Celebrities are allowed on the red carpet after check in; you must be inside by 6:30) All Celebrities perform__ tonight._

**Performance time is: 9:20 PM**  
**Pe_rforming: Undisclosed Desires by Muse_**  
**_Partner(s): Levi Ackerman_**  
**_Dance_**

_We look forward to seeing you there._

**~•~**

Eren didn't even get the chance to call his mother before he left. One of the reasons why he was somewhat stubborn and grouchy. But on the outside, he held a huge bright, beaming smile. Vivid enough to blind the sun.

The first day of Celeb Feast had already begun. A sworn of people bring restricted by a velvet rope and security guards pushed past each other to get a few pictures of Eren and Levi. This felt strange.

Both the flashing camera flashes and being held in Levi's secure grip. Its been a while since Levi's last wrapped his arms around Eren's waist and held him close like this. And Eren was enjoying it. Being held like this was the security he always craved from another being. But Levi was only doing this to keep his job, to make sure he doesn't fuck up his career. And Eren? He was only a prop in Levi's eyes. So why did he continue to do this to himself?

Simple.

He was in love with the man. There was no denying it. It was clear as day. He couldn't resist snuggling close to his chest and glancing up at him, embracing the man's beauty. He always wanted to be close to Levi, its been a long while since he's felt this strong about anyone.

...

This was the first time he felt so strongly about someone. A middle school crush? It means nothing if they haven't stayed by your side through the long shot.

Question is if Levi felt the same way about him.

"Oi, Eren," The teen snapped from his thoughts and looked at Levi who looked back at him. "Quit daydreaming. An interviewer is headed this way."

He wasn't joking. A woman who continued to ramble on glancing around every so often was nearing the two, and once she reached, Eren's smile fell.

"Aha! Look what we've found! Mr. Levi and Erin Ackerman!"

"Uh, it's Eren... And we-we're not married..." Eren bowed his head and mumbled the words"we're not married," as if ashamed to say it. "M-my last name is Jaeger. I'm Eren Jaeger." He looked up and smiled a little.

"Erin?"

"Eren," He corrected, taking an unintentional step forward as if it'd make his voice louder and his words clearer.

"How do you spell that?"

"...E-r-e-n. Eren." He spelled it slow. "Eren Jaeger."

"Ah! I see! And now, questions for Levi! What made you chose Eren? There are plently of gorgeous women you could be with. Why him? No offence. he's good looking but why?"

The shorter male scowled when the microphone was pushed in his face follows by the camera. He let go of Eren and pushed the woman's hand away. "First of all, get that shit out my face cause I'm not a fucking animal inside a cage, and two, I chose Eren because he had the look we needed for a photoshoot back in August. Why do I want to be with him? Because he's not like any other relationship I had back in the past. Eren's... Different. He's a lovey-dovey hormonal teen who crys at sunsets,"

Levi let a chuckle slip through by mistake when he said that. He paused for a moment and glanced at Eren before he continued.

"And... I don't know... He makes me feel strange inside... Like I want to stab myself and its a lot more intense then in my past relationships. Like, back then, it would go away after a while and I would forget about it. But now, I want to fucking throw up because of this little shit always infesting my mind and there's nothing I can do about it. He always comes crawling back no matter what I do and he gets more attached. And then I get more attached. Sometimes I wish I could just push him off a building and not have to deal with these suffocating feelings. But then again, life would be dull without him. But I messed up."

"Messed up what exactly?"

"Pfft, none of your fucking business. Go to hell."

"Levi!" Eren shouted. "He's been a little moody today, I'm sorry about him." Eren smiled at the woman. He took Levi's hand in his and gave it a light squeeze, signalling him to tone it down.

"See what I mean? He's a fucking house wife and it's cute as hell."

"Please stop..." Eren groaned, his face flushed and his cheeks turned red along with the tips of his ears.

"Gosh, you guys are adorable! Ah, but I have to ask, you said he was a teen? You're twenty two... How old are you exactly?" Eren noticed the fear on her voice. Her voice wavered slightly and her facial expressions changed. The camera man pushed the camera closer to his face and demanded and answer.

Levi wanted to step in but that would only make matter worse, wouldn't it? It would look like he was getting defensive about Eren's age and it would look like he's dating a fifteen year old.

So instead, he ushered Eren to speak up.

"I-is the camera rolling?"

"Yes, we're live."

"Live?!" His head whipped towards Levi. "You were cursing! Who knows who's watching, my mom could be watching!"

"Big fucking deal, what is she gonna do? Hop into the TV and lecture me on using "appropriate words?" That's pretty fucking stupid, even for you."

Eren rolled his eyes and sighed. "I'm nineteen. I'm a college student and by next year, I'll be twenty."

"Mmm..." The woman hummed, chewing on her bottom lip. "That's true but isn't Levi's birthday coming up?"

"Yes, it is actually," The man cut in before Eren could open his mouth and fuck everything up with a question he knew was going to slip out, "You're birthday is coming up?" That was beyond predictable and it would seem strange if Eren was unaware of Levi's birthday so he refused to let that happen. "What are you getting at?"

"You're turning twenty-three."

"That pretty obvious, anything else you want to deduce Sherlock?"

"Again, I'm sorry for his mouth." Eren said.

"Oh, no, don't apologize. I don't apologize for what I say, people will take me for granite and I'm not one to deal with people's shit."

"... U-um? Well, I mean... Since you're about to turn twenty-three, wouldn't that mean you have an age gap of four years?"

Levi couldn't help his eyes rolling and showing the fact he was clearly fucking done with this interviewer and wished for a truck to come and hit her so he could laugh.

"Yeah, so? Some people have an age gap of twenty to thirty years and that didn't stop them from getting married. So why the hell should I care?"

"Are you thinking about marring him?!"

"If I do, then I do. And there ain't shit you can say or do about it. If I don't, I don't. And like I said before, there's nothing you can do about it."

"What do you have to say about this, Eren?" Again, with the microphone being shoved in his face. He felt like all eyes were on him. Like if he said the wrong thing, a bomb would go off or the world would end or some supernatural thing would happen if he said the wrong thing.

Why was this so hard? Other celebrities made it look so easy. Or that's what Christa always said about them. Well, know that he thought about it, he did believe Christa is pretty phony, so why take her word on it?

"Well... I've never really... Thought... About it.. A-and well.. I um... Um... Erm..."

"Obviously, you're making him uncomfortable." Levi chimed in bitterly. He tugged Eren to him and quickly pecked him on the lips and locked his arms around his waist. "Can we hurry this along? I'm pretty sure there are other, more interesting interviewers for us to meet."

The woman narrowed her eyes and curled her lips down.

"How old are you Eren, really?"

Eren spaced out for a moment, slightly angered by the unexpected kiss. "I'm nineteen."

"Aren't you still a minor?"

"How exactly? I'm over the age of eighteen. And it's not like we're getting married tonight."

"You're right. But Levi's twenty-three."

"I'm still twenty-two until December 25th." Levi pointed out, his voice coming out like sharp, broken glass.

"Personally, I don't think this is right-"

"_Personally_, I don't give a fuck," Levi growled. "Move along now, sweetheart. I want to hurry this along because I'm taking Eren to dinner after this."

**~•~**

"What the hell was that?"

"Clearly a dimwitted interviewer." Levi answer, pulling off his tie and walking over to the sink to wash his face of excess sweat.

"Obviously, I know that. I mean, what was with that bullshit you spewed? About marriage and taking me out to dinner and all that other crap?"

Levi rubbed soap and cold water on his face, washing away the flashing lights and gossipers. He reached over for a towel and dried his face. He then responded. "I meant it. Some of it. I'm not taking you out to dinner you little shit. The marriage thing was legit though, I mean it. And what I said about you was true too."

"... What makes you think we'll get married?"

Levi shrugged, trying to brush off Eren's harsh yet true words. "Don't know. I'm not going to beg you to forgive me. Because I hope you realize you were in the wrong too."

"Gah, whatever. Just shut up and change so we can work on our stupid dance and get this over with..."

"Don't tell me what to do, fuck face."

Once they changed, they headed out. They got to the studio in about twenty minuets. They rushed inside, checked in and headed to the same studio in the back.

Tomorrow was Promos. Meaning tomorrow they would have to perform Love Me Harder to get the audience pumped up and interested in what they're actually going to do for Celeb Feast.

Actually, to be quite honest, Eren had almost no idea how Celeb Feast -or promos more specifically worked. He read the invitation over and over trying to figure out the brief instructions and tried to figure out the block scheduling. Tomorrow, he would have to just go with the flow and acted like he knew what he was doing. It seemed to work perfectly fine since the beginning.

He felt empty inside as he zombied his way through the dance. There was no life. There's no energy. There's zero connection between the two.

Aaliyah wanted to rip her hair out watching the two dance. At first she was annoyed about the fact Eren couldn't keep up with Levi and messed up the routine. After watching them dance several times, she stood up. The music died down slowly, signalling the end of the song and dance. And within seconds, Aaliyah's voice echoed through the studio.

"Maybe we should give the dance a theme."

"A theme?" Eren asked confused.

Aaliyah nodded, dropping her voice to a deadpan tone. "Night of the living dead. Because that's all I'm getting. I've already lectured you both on this and you don't seem to want to take the advice."

Both males remained silent. Aaliyah glanced at the time on her phone and said, "I have to make a quick phone call. While I'm gone I want you two to run through Undisclosed Desires. And when I come back, I hope to see a better connection between you both."

She held her phone up to her ear as she left the room, leaving the boys in a dense silence.

Levi could tell Eren was staring at him waiting for him to the move. Hr wasn't wrong either. When he looked up, Eren's big sea colored eyes were focused on him. But when Levi didn't say a word, Eren spoke up.

"Levi,"

"What?"

"This is all messed up. I don't like where our relationship is going..."

"... What relationship exactly? The one you fucked up?"

"Look, I didn't fuck up anything, alright? It takes two to mess up a situation!"

"And it takes one to start it."

"You're so stubborn-"

"If I'm stubborn, then why the hell do you like me?!" Levi shouted. Eren took an unconscious step back when Levi launched forward. "Tell me, Eren? Why the hell would you agree to do this, besides the fact you wanted a paid tuition?"

"..." The words couldn't form. They wouldn't roll off Eren's tongue but they struggled to be heard.

Levi took a firm hold of Eren's wrist and slammed in back against the mirror, his eyes baring daggers in the teen.

Eren's eyes shook. He tried to struggle out the smaller man's grip with no success. He's seen Levi mad, but this was just terrifying. "Levi, you're hurting me." Was all Eren could say.

"Why are you doing this to me? Why are you making me feel like this?" Levi lowered his head to Eren's chest, pressing his chest to the taller male. "Tell me... Why do you like me? Why couldn't you leave me out to rot, why did you walk onto my life? Why do I deserve someone like you...?"

"... Why do I like you...?" Eren questioned slowly. He again try to free himself with no leisure. So instead of embracing the smaller being, he let his words do it for him. "I like you because you're not like everybody else. You're a cold, bitter person... But I know that's the only way you know how to express love. That's the only way you know how to express affection. And I love it like that. I'm the only person who realizes that..."

"You're a brat."

"I'm still your brat. Whether you like it or not. Even if we did end our relationship. I'll always be your brat."

"... You're a little shit... Stop it..." Levi growled. His grip only grew tighter. He heard a small grunt from Eren when he began to dig his nails into his skin.

"You're all I've ever wanted, Levi." The man's lips crashed into his. His grip loosened slightly, his body gliding along Eren's as he allowed his emotions to run freely. Too many things were running through Levi's head at once. He really hated Eren at this moment, but at the same time he wanted to the stupid shit. Everything Eren said was true. It's just Levi had no idea what to do with his emotions anymore and got rid of them in the most terrible ways.

Even if that meant hurting Eren, he would find a way to relinquish himself of the painful, heart racing, agonizing feelings.

Was this love?

Levi had no idea anymore.

* * *

_**Celeb Feast  
Day 2: Promos**_

"Rise and shine, Eren!" Hanji's voice rang through his ears followed by bright light shining through the windows. He mumbled something and simply snuggled deeper underneath the covers. But of course she through back his covers and hit him with his pillows a few times until he finally sat up.

He yawned widely, stretching his body with a few snaps here and there. He looked over to Levi's bed to see it's already been made up. But there was no Levi. He looked around and didn't see him in sight.

Only Aaliyah sat in front of the mirror getting dressed. "Where's Levi?"

"Oh, he went down stairs with Erwin and Petra to get breakfast. I wanted to go but Erwin said I get to wake you up!" Hanji beamed brightly, taking a seat next to Eren.

"Errren, do you know what today is!?"

"Promos..."

"Yes!" Hanji exclaimed. She stood up as soon as she heard the door open and immediately ran towards it. "Wha'dya get? Hmm? Did they have bacon? Ohh! I smell pancakes!"

"Erwin, I seriously think it's a better idea to starve her." Levi said, setting the plate of breakfast on the counter, scowling as Hanji hovered over him. "Don't touch my food! I have no idea where you hands been!"

"But I know where yours been ~" She chimed happily.

Levi shot her a quick questioning look. "What's that supposed to mean?"

The woman smiled goofily, wrapping her arms around Levi and pulled his cheek. "I know your secret~"

"You don't know shit. And get the hell off me!" He attempted to slam his elbow back but Hanji, already knowing the man's actions, moved out the way and laughed. "Slow down there, don't hurt yourself!"

Levi scowled and rolled his eyes. Instead of retorting, he simply sat down and tried to ignore the woman.

With no success.

"Come on, Levi. Don't play dumb anymore, we all know your little game~"

"Enlighten me," Levi said coldly.

Hanji leaned forward, trying her best to choke back her laugh. "You think you could get past me? You may have everybody else fooled but I know you well. You and Eren need to make up already. Just bang."

If looks could kill, Hanji would be in hell rotting away where she belonged. She laughed harder than she should have when Levi stood up in defense.

"Hey hey hey, don't hurt me, it'll look suspicious ya know~"

"I wasn't going to hurt you, shit stain. How much do you fucking know and I swear to God if you told Erwin or a single soul I will-"

"Oh calm down, will you? I haven't told anybody... Yet."

"Don't play that shit with me." He warned. He glanced over her shoulder to see Eren had already gone in the shower and Erwin, Petra and Aaliyah were outside chatting on the balcony. When he looked back at her, he just wanted to smack that stupid fucking toothy grin off her face.

"Did Eren tell you anything?"

"Pfft, no. Its pretty obvious, you're both horn dogs after all!"

"You're a fucking pervert." Levi groaned.

"Come on, don't be mad at me, you should be mad at yourself."

"Why is that?"

"Because you upset Eren."

"How do you even know he's upset?" Levi asked, his voice wavering slightly trying to forget about their argument...

"Look at the kid. He's not like you. He's not good at concealing his emotions." Levi simply shrugged off her words and sighed heavily. He sunk down in his seat and pinched the bridge of his nose.

"I don't know what to do anymore."

"I can tell..." She mumbled. She hauled herself onto the desk and kicked her feet. "Well, for starters, what happened?"

"None of your fucking business. I didn't ask for your help."

Hanji rolled her eyes. "Ok well... How about you apologize to him? Oh and buy him flowers. And chocolate! Oh! And how about a romantic dinner then come home to a sexy bubble bath? Eren would be all over you!"

"From what happened, I'm pretty sure he wouldn't want to get close to me. We can barely stomach each other."

"Didn't you guys have sex last night?"

"What?!" Levi said, louder than he expected to. "Hanji, what the fuck are you talking about? Probably some sick perverted fantasy or some shit."

"Uh, no. I don't fantasize about you and Eren doing that stuff. That's your job." Levi stood up to leave, completely done for the day whereas Hanji is concerned but she grabbed onto his wrist and pulled him back.

"Will you stop being obnoxious for ten fucking minuets?!"

"Just wait a second! Look, I'll stop okay? Just let me finish."

"No."

"Levi!"

"No."

"Anyway, what I mean by "Didn't you guys have sex last night," I mean, when Eren came back, he seemed all flustered and hot and bothered. Not to mention he disappeared in the bathroom for like forty minuets while Erwin was going over today's schedule." She spit quickly. She took in a quick breath when Levi turned around and recoiled his wrist from the woman.

"He probably had to take a shit." He deadpanned.

"Doubt it," she smiled. "He acted _waaaay_ too casual when he returned and his ears and cheeks were still red. His breathing was also rapid."

Yup... If one person knew his sexual façade well, its was Levi. Eren was probably the cutest fucking sexual partner he's ever had. Seriously. He enjoyed every moment of making love to the brat and it's imprinted into his memory because every single moment was memorable with him. His sweet, delicious moans and mewls and lovely screams, watching his body twitch and shiver in response to Levi's skillful touch, the way his face turned red and he tried to hide his lust filled eyes behind his hands...

"Levi? You okay there, shorty?"

"Huh? Oh yeah, I'm fine. And don't call me that."

"Anyways, why don't you do something special for Eren? He's a sucker for romantic stuff, trust me. He's almost like a girl."

"Ha, he is a girl," Levi laughed. He actually laughed. Well, it was more of a choked out two second laugh but he actually smiled a little.

...

God this brat is going to be the end of him.

"You love him, right?"

"Fuck you. And I don't _love_ him. He's the one head over heels for _me_."

"Mhm, I see a happy ending in your future."

"Yeah, and I see my foot up your ass in your future."

"Well played~" she cooed. "Now, what are you going to do for him?"

"I don't know. You tell me."

"Are you asking for me help?"

Levi shrugged. "Four eyes, do me a favor?"

"What short stuff?"

"How about you push your shitty glasses up your face and back the hell away from my food? Disgusting. You're drooling all over the fucking place, you're not a dog, have some respect for yourself."

"Can I have your waffles?"

Levi glanced at his food then at Hanji who was staring intently at the plate. He cut himself a piece of waffle, and ate it.

"Go fuck yourself," he mumbled.

**~•~**

"Hold still Eren, it'll only take one more second." Petra said, fixing his collar. Eren looked around, feeling somewhat uneasy.

They sat back stage. Inside the dressing rooms, it was somewhat hectic and a little bit disorganized since they were thrown off schedule by thirty minuets. Meaning they checked in late and they had about a fifteen minuet block to get dressed, rush the routine, do fitting and so on. Everything was happening so fast and Eren felt like a nervous mess.

"There you go..." Petra mumbled. She took a step back to admire her work before flashing a big smile. "You look good!"

"Thank you..."

"Eren, get over here, we have to run the routine quickly." Aaliyah called. When he tried to walk over with wobbly legs, Erwin's voice echoed through his ear drums.

"We have no time. They're on in five."

Eren looked at the blonde who was reading over the TV scheduling, scowling as he look down at the papers in disagreement. Eren then looked at Levi who stayed to himself. He stood in front of the mirror, fixing his tie around his neck and tightening it. He slid his hands through his locks, biting his lip softly.

The man truly was beautiful. Absolutely stunning in Eren's eyes.

"Oi, brat, quit staring and close your mouth. You'll catch a fly."

Eren's slightly parted lips slammed shut and he looked away, trying to hide the small blush on his face.

"Levi and... Eren...?" A person who worked backstage entered the room, looking over his clipboard quickly before looking up. "You're on now."

**~•~**

Commercials hadn't even ended, yet the crowd was already cheering for Eren and Levi's upcoming performance as the crew set up the black leather chaise lounge chair with red velvet pillows to accompany the seat. Their names flashed on the large display screen set above the stage and the medium-sized screens on either sides of the larger screen. The audience chanted their names as the crew ran around the stage. Eren took in a deep breath and ran his hand over his chest, finally realizing he forgot something.

"Oh, uh..." He dug into his back pocket and pulled out a sleek back silk tie. "Hey uh, L-levi-"

"Figure it out yourself, you little shit. You should've put on back inside the dressing room."

"..." He sighed heavily and grumbled, "Fine, I don't need your help..." Instead of wasting time trying to tie the forsaken piece of clothing, he let it drop to the floor and undid two buttons from his shirt. He probably wasn't going to hear the end of it, but it was better than looking like a complete fool on stage. Plus the audience had no idea he was supposed to wear a tie. They haven't been rehearsing the routine so they'll never know.

That'll be his excuse.

"Forty seconds!" Someone called from the right.

"Eren, Levi, get into positions," someone else called. He felt a small push from behind ushering him onto the dark stage.

He walked over to the seat. First Levi took a seat, sinking down into the seat and opening his legs a little. Eren stood for a moment, swallowing the thickening hesitation that built-in his throat in the remarkable span of two seconds. He eased himself onto Levi's lap, draping his arms around his neck slowly. He eased forward. Close enough so he could feel Levi's breath on his cheek.

His heart sped up. His face turned hot. The dance hadn't even started and already he was excited.

"Welcome back to our annual all celebrity event internationally known as Celeb Feast," Eren noticed from the corn or of his eye, the announcer stood in the wings of the stage, leaving only him and Levi to do what they were taught to do. "Tonight, we're giving you the sneak peaks for tomorrow's event. Ranging from different acts from singing to acting. Now, without further ado, we have two of the hottest trending celebrities about to perform a sensual dance for you tonight. All the way from Sina,"

Already the crowd (again) started to pick up their excitement. And Eren jumped a little at the unexpected screams.

"A world wide famous sex symbol, performing with everybody's favorite innocent, emerald eyed, sensational boyfriend, here's Levi Ackerman and Eren Jaeger performing Love me Harder by Ariana Grande and the Weekend!"

Wow, all those kind, flattering words were not needed in that announcer's sentence. It only made Eren more nervous and timid.

He almost fainted when the audience screamed.

He noticed the song was pitched down and slowed slightly. He looked over at Aaliyah who stood in the wing with her arms crossed, slight confusion painting his eyes.

She simply rolled her hand, signalling him to just continue and not worry about it.

So he did.

When the first set of lyrics rolled around, he bent back, the audience upside down, Levi's hand supporting his back. (Lyrics) He rolled himself back up, using his right hand to push Levi back while sliding his left off the couch, leaving his right leg still next to Levi's. Once his left foot hit the ground, he mouthed the words, "I'll take the pleasure, take it with the pain." As he eased himself forward.

Instead of locking their lips, Levi pushed Eren away, and stood up. Eren was trying to look as erotic and sexual as possible but by the look Levi was giving him, it seemed like he looked like a nervous wreck.

Levi's face gave off an irritated and annoyed vibe.

Maybe this was what Aaliyah was lecturing them about...

_I know your motives and you know mine_

_The ones that love me, I tend to leave behind_

_If you know about me and choose to stay_

_Then take this pleasure and take it with the pain_

Even though the audience was going insane, chanting and hollaring their names, he knew he was messing up. With the look on Levi's face, he knew he was doing something wrong.

_So what would I do if I can't figure it out?_

_You got to try, try, try again_

_So what would I do if I can't figure it out?_

_I'm gonna leave, leave, leave again_

Eren stumbled. He stumbled over his own two feet. Luckily, he caught himself before he fell but ended up clashing with Levi. Levi didn't fall. But Eren did. They blanked out for a second, more Eren than Levi. But to cover it up, Levi extended his hand forward and pulled Eren to his feet. Doing a quick turn with Eren in his arms, swooped him down then up then locked their lips for a split second.

_ Cause if you want to keep me_  
_ You gotta, gotta, gotta, gotta, got to love me harder_  
_ (Imma love ya harder)_  
_ And if you really need me_  
_ You gotta, gotta, gotta, gotta, got to love me harder_

Eren stood for a second, completely fazed by the unexpected moves. It took a few moments for his brain to process what step to do next.

_And if you really need me_  
_ You gotta, gotta, gotta, gotta, got to love me harder_  
_ (I'm gonna do it, do it. Imma love ya harder)_  
_ Ooo love me, love me, love me (Love you)_  
_ Ooo harder, harder, harder (Love me, love me baby)_  
_ Ooo love me, love me, love me (Just a little bit harder, harder baby)_  
_ Ooo harder, harder, harder_

When Levi waltzed over to the couch, Eren did the same. He remembered he was to do the same moves as Levi now. Eren wished he didn't have to be seated on the side where Aaliyah could see him. He could feel the knives being thrown at him. He could feel the flames burning his poor body. He could just imagine Aaliyah with a voodoo doll shoving knives and needles and just abusing a poor Eren doll for just messing everything up.

He could just imagine how pissed off Aaliyah must be...

He stumbled a few more times, missed a few steps, looked like he'd just seen a ghost, but when the song finally ended and the lights faded dim, he was even more terrified than before.

When they exited off stage, the first person to confront him was of course Levi. And his words weren't kind. He remained emotionless; his voice flat and deadpanned.

"You fucking did it. You fucked everything up as usual. Now hopefully, I won't lose my fucking job and fuck up my career. Because it won't be a happy ending for you."

"Leave me alone Levi, I don't want to talk to you right now. I need to find Aaliyah."

"I'm pretty sure she doesn't want to talk to you either."

"You know what Levi, go fuck off. Go fuck yourself and leave me the hell alone. I don't have to take your bullshit. And I'm a fucking idiot for even trying to fix odds with you. You know, we ended our relationship but the fanbase has no idea yet. They still think we're both head over heels for each other. So why don't we tell them the truth huh? Tell them I'm a fuck up and tell them you're a disgusting douchebag who cares for nobody else but himself."

"Eren-"

"Don't you Eren me. Ask yourself that. Why don't we tell them we broke up? Why don't we tell them we were only fuck buddies? Nothing but a fucking one night stand-"

"You _weren't_ a one night stand." Levi retorted.

"We might as well have been. You don't want to lose your job because of this. But I know that's not the reason why you will never tell them that and it's because you can't face your own mistakes. You won't face your own demons. You know you're wrong. You know you were wrong for being me into this and making me actually fall for you. This was a mistake. Falling for you was a mistake. If I knew this was going to happen and I was going to be the one getting hurt I would've never done it just to save my own ass."

"Eren, stop it-"

"Why? Because I'm right?!"

Levi marched forward, putting his hand over Eren's mouth and forcing him against the wall. "No because we're in public. I will not argue with you here. Paparazzi is everywhere am I will not sabotage you, Erwin, The Garrison or The Recon Agency because of a fight we can handle when we're alone."

He slowly removed his hand from his mouth and gave him a dark look.

"So quit acting like a spoiled brat, you shit."

* * *

_**Celeb Feast**_

The car ride yesterday was absolutely silent. It was awkward and the tension was real and thick. Suffocating actually.

When they got back to the hotel, Eren simply stripped himself of his clothes, washed his face and collapsed on his bed.

But when he woke up the next day, immediately no more than about five minuets after he woke up, his lecture began. And it was too damn early to listen to commander eyebrows lecture him.

"What was that last night?"

"Our routine..." He tried to lay off the sarcasm but hell he just woke up, he's irritated and had zero patience for anybody.

"Cut the sarcasm, Eren. And watch your mouth_."_

He closed his eyes for a second in annoyance, when Aaliyah took a seat at the foot of his bed, looking too calm for his liking.

"Last night, your performance started out strong. And then what happened? You looked like a deer in headlights out there."

"..Yeah, okay, I'm sorry..." Eren mumbled, hoping it would get the blonde man off his ass. But of course the universe hates him and that's not what happened.

"This morning, when Hanji checked social sites, The Recon Agency, as well as you got poor reviews. Critiques have criticized the Recon Agency and who we decide to sign contracts to too and so on. Also, they believe Aaliyah was responsible your actions on stage."

Eren took a quick glance at the woman.

"Aaliyah, do you have anything to say?" Erwin asked.

She remained silent for a moment. "Eren, look at me," she said. When he looked up she continued. "I'm not going to scold you like a child. That's not my place as far as I'm concerned. But I will tell you this, pull that little stunt on stage again tonight and trust me, I will make sure nobody will work with you again. It sounds harsh, I must admit. But don't jeopardize what I have to do for a living."

Was everybody this stuck up? _"Oh, it's about my career," "I can't lost my job,"_ the same things over and over and over again. It was like a broken record with these damn people and Eren was sick of it.

He was sick of the celebrity life. He was sick of being well known and having people chant his name and people always wanting pictures. With him, he was tired of having to keep up with social medial and seeing his name spelled incorrectly and under hashtags.

He was sick of this new life.

And he wanted his old one back.

"I'm only going to say this once Eren. Remember that it's not all about you. You're actions will affect others in the future as well."

Who is she? His mom? He didn't need to hear this.

So reluctantly, Eren agreed with what she had to say and within minuets their ridiculous conversation was over and he headed to the shower. Tonight was the last night before they headed home so he might as well make the best of today, right?

**~•~**

"Levi, you're a fucking dick,"

"And you're an infuriating brat, so shut the fuck up."

"Stop arguing for like ten minuets please? We need to get this dance done. This dance is more technical that Love Me Harder and so help me if you mess it up," Aaliyah called over the music. "This dance better be perfect."

Through rehearsals, they were sluggish. Aaliyah has seen leaves dance in the wind better than what the two were giving her now. They even had more life and energy. With these two, if felt like watching a terrible soap opera.

They acted like an old married couple. They wanted to make up with each other while at the same time were royally pissed off and refused to make amends.

But as rehearsals went by, they starting to pick up their stamina and work with each other a little better. But the rough tension between the makes were undeniable. And as Aaliyah sat on the sidelines, occasionally calling out their errors and making small mental notes on how they could improve the dance, she started listening to the lyrics and slowly but surely, an idea began to crawl on her skin. And before she knew it, a small smile twisted on her lips and she began talking.

"Eren, Levi," she walked over and shut off the music, waiting for them to turn to her to continue. "Let's take a short break. Get some water and rest. But, while you're resting, listen to Undisclosed Desires."

The room remained silent. And by the confused look on Eren's face, she decided to elaborate more.

"I just thought... Instead of simply performing the routine, how about you feel it. I noticed last night you were nervous and that's probably why you messed up so bad. I'm just going to say this now, you're not a shy person so what happened on stage was complete and utter bullshit. Don't do it again. Now, what I mean by feel the music is, sit down and just listen to the song."

Within a matter of minuets, Eren and Levi were sat against the mirror, a few inches keeping them distant. Eren sipped on his water, his heart skipping a beat as soon as the song came on.

At first, he wondered why Aaliyah had them sit back and listen to the music instead of executing the actually thing but he knew better than to go against her word. But as the lyrics began and he really started listening to it, word for word, he slowly began to realize what she was trying to do. He finally understood what she wanted to interpret into the dance. He finally fathomed why she chose this dance. Why she chose this specific song for them in particular.

This wasn't like Love Me Harder which had almost no concept further than the fact it was about sexual interactions, no.

This song went a lot deeper than that.

This song described them _perfectly_.

Almost_ too _perfectly.

As if Muse sat down and studied their relationship and just wrote a song dedicated to them.

The lyrics seemed to alter between Levi's point of view and Eren's. As if telling a story from each male's perspective. The song spoke the lyrics that Levi wanted to tell Eren and vise versa.

This song was _perfect_.

No,_ flawlessly impeccable_.

Eren didn't love this song before. He did now.

Eren looked over at Levi, his mouth slightly ajar only to see the man sat back with a stoic face. As if the song went through one ear and out the next without second thought...

"H-hey Levi-"

The man only stood, sighing to himself quietly. He looked over at Aaliyah and mumbled something before walking out.

**~•~**

Celeb Feast was like trying to catch a subway in Shinjuku. Backstage was absolutely busy. People were busing about left and right, the stage directors commanding people, celebrities roaming around trying to get ready for their spectacular performance, then there was Eren.

Walking around like a lost puppy even through he was surrounded by Erwin, Levi, Petra, Aaliyah and Petra. He still seemed lost in such a place.

He thought by yesterday he'd be used to backstage but maybe not...

They just finished taking photos on the red carpet and debuting their star-crossed lovers lie. Now they were trying to find their dressing room backstage. You'd think they'd be in the same room as yesterday but of course some international pop star who looks like a failed science fair project, (basically a poor attempt at Lana Del Rey) asked for their room in particular due to some "importance" as she calls it, the room has. Maybe every time (if she's lucky...) She attends Celeb Feast she's always designated to that room?

Or maybe its because she has so much money coming out here ass she can do whatever the fuck she wants. That's how Eren sees it.

And he's 1000 percent correct.

**~•~**

Eren tugged at his long tie that sat a little too snuggly around his neck. They stood in the wings of the stage, this time on the opposite end. Hanji said they would be exiting the stage the way they entered it last night. Which again made no fucking sense in Eren's head but yet again knew it was best no to question it.

"You guys are gonna do great!" Hanji beamed.

"Mhm. No mess ups. And I right, Eren?" The teen could feel the words firing into his skull from the short woman behind him.

"That's right..." He mumbled.

Eren noticed the seat used from last night's performance was rolled back into the middle of the stage. The difference was this couch looked like a high school senior girl with entirely too much social life her hands. The couch was completely contoured.

Completely redone.

Instead of the leather seat, it was made from a soft black thick fabric. Unlike the wood legs from the couch from last night, it was painted black and the wood lining around the seat was painted pink adorned with pink and white pillows with black rose petals on the seat.

"Don't you think the rose petals were a little too much?" Eren asked Hanji. She shook her head vigorously and said, "I think there are too little! There are only about five rose petals out there."

Eren chuckled a little.

"Oi, Petra... Why pink? Usually we wear red." Eren heard Levi say. He turned around and noticed Petra fixing a small pair of pink, mixed with black framed glasses on the bridge of his nose.

A matter of fact there were blots of pink here and there on their outfits. But they weren't dressed identical.

While Eren was dressed more business like, Levi was dressed like a teenaged boy.

Eren chuckled a little. Would you look at that? They changed roles in the relationship. Eren was the responsible, mature adult while Levi was a rebellious teen who was to listen to him.

Levi wore a simply black button down shirt with dark skinny jeans with converse. Typical_ Eren_ wear. While he was stuck in a white shirt, black pants and simple dress shoes... Boring.

He snapped out of his thoughts when he heard the crowd roar. It wasn't as spectacular as last night... But it was still something... This probably meant he was really going to have to step up his game and hopefully, by the end of this, the crowd would be going insane for him and Levi.

The announcer walked out on the middle of the stage with a crooked smile. "Welcome back everybody! Its been a long night, can we all agree?"

The audience cheered happily and the man continued, pacing back and forth slowly. "We've seen live performances from top artists. We've seen martial arts fighting, even profession acrobatics on silks. But now, we're going to unwind for a bit. You know them, you love them, America's favorite couple and modeling companions, here's Levi Ackerman and Eren Jaeger dancing to Undisclosed Desires."

The lights went dim and the auditorium went dark. Dark enough for Eren to sprint across stage and get into his position. He pinpointed some people shouting out "Eren," and "Levi," with the occasional "I love you," and other things like that. But what really captured his attention was many people shouting the word _"Ereri."_

He had no idea what that meant, but it sounded like a part of his name?

The brunette almost fainted when the lights on the stage came on and he was revealed to the audience, the music finally coming through followed by Levi's voice over.

There was a short instrumental at the beginning and Aaliyah decided to add some last minuet dialogue in there.

Plus, she thought it would help explain the concept of the dance more since the rest of the viewing audience. had no idea about their fued. Why not explain the storyline to them?

Levi walked from his end of the stage slowly, mouthing the words as he walked. "Oi, Eren... Tell me something."

"What?" Eren mouthed, trying not to focus his attention on Levi. He noticed people in the audience wearing... pink? Was Celeb Feast revolved around pink or something? Or was it just a coincidence?

"How do you feel about me?"

Eren snapped from his thoughts and swallowed, throwing his mouthing off a little. "What's that supposed to mean?" Finally Levi was behind Eren, he leaned forward a little, his lips brushing over Eren's ear while his hand ran down his chest, attempting to undo his tie. "Do you love me?" The audience was screaming at those words.

Eren rolled his eyes, trying his best to portray an annoyed expression. "No." Of course some male shouted "Yes you do!" from the audience making Eren's ears turns red...

Levi stopped undoing Eren's tie and stands up straight, he crosses and arms and scowled. "Tch, brat."

"Bitter old man,"

"Little shit."

Levi pulled Eren up from the seat, and Eren immediately tried to swing at him. But Levi simply caught the assault and pulled Eren close.

_I know you've suffered,_

_But I don't want you to hide,_

_It's cold and loveless,_

_I won't let you be denied_

When the lyrics _Soothing_, rolled around, they were center stage, far back away from the chair but lined up with it. Eren locked his arms around Levi while Levi stripped him of his jacket while kissing the exposed flesh of Eren's neck. He pulls the tie loosely but not enough to pull it free.

_I'll make you feel pure_

Levi slithers around Eren, standing behind him, his hands starting from his midriff slowly making their way teasingly to his crotch. The audience started to hoot and hollar at the scene displayed on stage.

_Trust me,_

_You can be sure_

Levi marches around in front of Eren and tugs his tie forward, standing on his tiptoes to kiss the teen but the boy pushes him away as the chorus starts.

_I want to reconcile the violence in your heart_

_I want to recognize your beauty is not just a mask,_

_I want to exorcise the demons from your past,_

_I want to satisfy the undisclosed desires in your heart_

Now it was time to show the audience that it was Eren's turn to seduce Levi and as the lyrics echoed through the event, Eren played his part to par.

_You trick your lovers,_

_That you're wicked and divine,_

Levi faced the wings of the stage, his arms crossed and his face sour. Eren sneaks up behind him and pulls him to his waist, tilting his chin up to look deep into his eyes.

_You may be a sinner,_

_But your innocence is mine_

Levi was able to turn around, finally facing Eren. With his hand, he pushed the teen back and onto the seat, settling himself between his legs slowly quickly unbuttoning his shirt but when it reached the third to last button, Eren hauled him up onto his waist and let Levi do all the work.

_Please me,_

_Show me how it's done,_

_Tease me,_

_You are the one_

Eren draped his hands onto Levi's waist, adding extra pressure on the rotating grinds on his crotch. Eren bit his bottom lip, sooner allowing a low, deep moan escape. He almost couldn't hear the crowd as he lost himself in Levi's seduction. From the way the man stared at him was enough to make his heart race and his body ache...

_I want to reconcile the violence in your heart_

Eren's eyes darkened a little and as part of the dance, pushed Levi off him, and Levi as instructed, slid off his partner's lap and stumbled backwards, grabbing onto Eren's collar to drag him forward.

_I want to recognize your beauty is not just a mask,_

Levi was to catch Eren and undo his shirt completely, throwing it to the sea of people and hell did they fight each other for the rare merchandize. It was like throwing steak at a pack of vicious starving dogs...

_I want to exorcise the demons from your past,_

Levi turned around, setting his ass against Eren's crotch and grinding against it. The only thing with this was not apart of the dance. What the hell was Levi doing?! Eren was confused, completely but didn't let it show through. Instead, he went along with it.

_I want to satisfy the undisclosed desires in your heart_

Right now, they would back at the studio, just the two of them practicing around this time since Aaliyah would leave to attend to her Master Class. Right now, it would be them in the studio making a few jokes, inappropriate or not, talking about life or whatever came to mind. They would just sit back and act like a normal couple. Forgetting about the spotlight and fame, and just relaxing with one another.

They were comfortable with each other on stage, this was like being back at home with each other.

_Please me,_

_Show me how it's done,_

Levi pushed Eren back, crawling on top of the taller male and smirking lightly. His boner rested against Eren's chest and it took all his willpower not to take Levi right here and now.

Not like he would let him do it anyway...

Instead, he unbuttoned Levi's pants and unzipped them but Levi gave him a look that signalled him to stop. The smaller male leaned forward, undoing the final buttons on his top and rested his chest against his. Levi's thin, cold lips leaving ghost kisses along Eren's chest. He straddled Eren and smirked darkly now.

_I want to reconcile the violence in your heart,_

_I want to recognize your beauty is not just a mask,_

_I want to exorcise the demons from your past,_

_I want to satisfy the undisclosed desires in your heart_

As the song came to its climax, Levi placed a quick peck on Eren's lips. Levi and Eren just started at each other. Only Eren mattered. And only Levi mattered. They laid on the couch, looking like a complete erotic mess with their erratic breathing, their disarray clothes, that passionate look in their eyes. Except this was only child's play. Their love making was much more than what was interperted on stage. Levi muttered something, but Eren couldn't hear it over the uproar of the audience. Not like they mattered. He only saw Levi's lips move and him remove his glasses and set them on Eren's face.

Eren loved Levi's face during this moment; slightly parted lips and greedy eyes.

**~•~**

As soon as they got back to the hotel, they slammed and locked their hotel door. They already had a good 60 percent of their clothes stripped so there wasn't much to go.

Levi slammed Eren against the wall as their lips battled for dominance, their tongues colliding in a fiery passion.

They broke away for a moment, panting heavily, nothing wanting more of each other.

"This isn't right," Levi stated, pulling off Eren's pants.

"T-then why do you continue this? Stop of you don't want to..."

"I don't want to stop. Don't tell me what to do you shit," Levi purred into the crook of Eren's neck, his breath making the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. "If I wanted to stop, I would've stopped."

"Then why did you say this isn't right?"

"Because... This isn't..."

"Stop being like- _ah!_ That..." Eren moaned, his head lolling.

Levi broke away from the teen, Eren shivered as he did.

"Tell me Eren, do you love me?" Levi asked.

"N-no..." He lied.

"Do you love me?" Levi repeated.

Eren grabbed Levi's chin and pulled him into another tongue twister. His head spun and swirled with passion, ecstasy, want, _desire_. Their tongues played games with each other. Mixing between deep sucks and exploring each other's mouths. Eren pulled away for a moment to mumble a quick, "Go to Hell," against his lips before locking them again.

_This isn't love._ Eren will always told himself that. No matter how much he wanted it to be, _it never will be._

But one thing he knew for sure about their relationship, was that even Levi's tongue knew how to dance.

Not just his body.

* * *

_A/N: Holy hell that was a loooooooooong chapter. I'm tired and it's almost six in the morning so I apologize for many errors and mistakes throughout the chapter. I'm also sorry for rushing at many parts! I'll try explaining Levi and Eren's attitudes towards each other next chapter in case you don't understand cause the way they act is pretty confusing even for me. I'll just say this, they're in denial of wanting each other because neither of them want to confess first. Even when they do confess to one other, the other one tries to push them away or deny their true love and affection, simply thinking they want each other for sexual interactions only. That's not the case though._

Yeah, I'll go through their relationship difficulties next chapter.

I'm really tired but so I'll do review response next chapter. Thanks for all the favorites, follows, and reviews! I'm sorry I didn't update sooner! I had a bad writer's block writing each part and I ended up rewriting a few parts up to at least 8 times... so I'm not gonna stay long, again thanks for the dedication you guys give me to this story and until next time! Stay sweet!


	22. Chapter Twenty One: Rice Pudding

When they woke up the next morning, Eren expected his limbs to be tangled with Levi's. Instead, he got a slow lazy morning that he was very grateful to have.

He was sore, that was the down side. But when he opened his eyes, he got the most perfect morning awakening anybody could ask for. Levi was standing on the balcony, leaning on the railing, allowing the morning breeze to kiss his skin and hair. He stood outside in a black tank top and gray sweat pants that hung loosely off his hips. He held his a cup of coffee his unusual way, overlooking the city.

He wanted to crawl out of bed and walk up behind Levi and show him love and affection, but instead, ignored the temptation.

Sadly, the sun wasn't up yet. But the lights on the balcony illuminated the man, giving him a gorgeous glow.

He sat up and looked over on the dresser expecting to see his phone. Only to realize it was on Levi's bathroom counter. So he looked at the alarm clock to see it was half past five.

He couldn't remember what time he fell asleep last night.

Maybe two almost two thirty when they collapsed next to each other?

He looked around sleepily and noticed Levi's suitcase was packed and all his other belongs were set and ready to go next to the door. Were they leaving today? They only been in Vegas for about three days and he didn't get to do anything except work, work and more work.

"We're leaving Vegas in about thirty minuets. Hanji and Erwin left to get breakfast so you should hurry up and get dressed."

Eren look at Levi, quite surprised actually.

"You knew I was awake?"

"Don't question my intelligence, shitface." Levi turned around and walked inside. The one thing that threw Eren off was the white, long burning stick hanging between his lips.

"You're smoking?!"

Levi shot him a look, a daring one at that. Meaning ask another stupid question, see what happens.

"You can't smoke, Levi!" Eren crawled out of bed, his feet and hands occasionally tangling with the sheets. "That's bad for you!"

"Can you put on some damn clothes? How are you supposed to explain yourself if somebody walks in?" The man collapsed in the arm-chair, sinking down into the seat with dark eyes.

"Don't change the subject!" Eren sat down at the foot of the bed, throwing the blankets over his naked half. "Spit that out."

"Fuck you."

"Get rid of it!"

Levi removed the cigarette from his teeth. He puckered his lips and blew out, accomplish a ring of smoke to provoke the sea eyed teen.

Eren squeaked, a small noise escaping his lips as he watched. "Why are you smoking?! That's not like you!"

"And why do you care? We're not dating. And last time I checked, I'm a grown man and I can do whatever the hell I want."

"Levi..."

"... I'm smoking to clear my head. I can't think straight."

Eren inhaled deeply and let it go through his nose. He ran his hands through his hair and mumbled, "We can't keep doing this..."

"... I know." Levi says simply, he closed his eyes and mumbled, "Get dressed brat, we're heading home."

**~•~**

When they boarded the plane, the first thing Eren did was waltz to the back, grab a seat and look out the window, whispering small "Goodbyes," to Las Vegas.

They did nothing. Absolutely nothing on their stay! He wanted to go into the casino, but no. Eren's too immature to gamble. But he felt at ease as his hand ran over the fairly big box holding his mother's present.

He had today all mapped out. Once they landed in Rose, the first thing Eren was gonna do his head home. Not Levi's home, but his home. With his mother and his somewhat messy, teenaged boy's room. Then maybe later after he explains everything to Carla he would head back over to Levi's and get his phone and other belongings.

His heart thumped against his chest when Levi took the seat next to him.

Eren stared at him for a second, completely amazed by his actions.

Levi scoffed. "Close your mouth. I'll laugh when you catch a fly and choke."

"..."

"And stop staring while you're at it. Its creeping me the hell out."

Good old Levi, never changes.

Eren nodded his head, taking the man's advice into consideration. He shifted his body so he was turned towards the window once more. The sun was coming up. He could see it off in a distance. The sky was dark, but towards the east he could see gold sitting on top of that darkness waiting to be broken free to shine upon the Earth. It was a low hazy glow off towards the east.

Finally, the plane took off. Eren snuggled back into the seat but didn't take his eyes off the view out the window. He was going to be home within a matter of hours. To think, in just a few hours he gets to see his mother again. And this time, he would hug and kiss her and never let her go. He wanted to apologize for his mistakes.

He just wanted to make it up to her.

He smiled a little when the sun started to creep out from behind the clouds.

Slowly, but surely, the sun began to rise. Its radiant, magnificence gracing the world below, lighting it up like a Christmas tree. Pink, orange, different shades of blue and magenta colored the sky beautifully.

Unintentionally, Eren pulled his legs up and sat on his knees, propping himself up against the window, pressing his nose and hands against it.

"Still gawking over sunsets, are we?"

Eren shrugged, not opening his mouth an inch to respond. Instead, his eyes narrowed slightly and his lips thinned.

This was gonna be a long ride.

**~•~**

"I want to go home," Eren said as they entered the back of Auruo's car.

"Don't worry Eren, we'll drop you home after the party."

"The party for what?" He asked, turning on his heels to see Erwin putting luggage into the truck.

"You'll see once we get there."

Eren swallowed a thick lump in his throat and looked down at the gift. He ran his thumb over the wrapping paper and sighed heavily.

He then looked up.

Levi stood next to the car and Eren felt his heart thump a little. He couldn't help but noticed Levi looked somewhat... Devastated.

"Eren, why are you standing around?" He heard Petra. She walked up to him, Auruo's figured firmly pressed against the side of her body holding her close.

"Huh? O-oh, I'm just... Thinking..."

"About what?"

"My mom..."

Petra looked at Auruo and signaled him to the car. Once he left, she wrapped her arms around Eren and held him close. Eren didn't return the hug, of course.

He didn't deserve to be treated nicely by the kind woman.

"Eren, you'll see her. I know how you feel, having to be dragged thousands of miles away from home. You're just homesick, that's all."

The teen nodded and wrapped his arms around Petra, burying his face on her chest. "I'm sorry..." He mumbled, inaudible.

"What?"

"Thank you. For everything." He mumbled, smiling a little.

**~•~**

How long as it been since he's been inside Petra's estate? He's been in here once before and he wasn't used to it.

He remembered a few months ago, when he first came in here, there were so many rich people it felt completely nauseating. He felt like a peasant around those rich bastards. But Carla looked like she belonged and lived around the rich class and it actually surprised Eren how well she conversated with them.

And then, once the party was over, they headed around back into the dining room and sat down to eat dinner. Which was where he sat now. Same seat as before. The one closest to the large window overlooking their meal, while his mother sat on the right of him and Erwin on the left and Mikasa sat across the table.

Except Mikasa and his mother wasn't here. Levi was in her seat. Well, now that he thought about it, it was understandable that Carla wasn't here...

"Where's Mikasa?" He asked out of the blue, interrupting the conversation being thrown around the table.

"You know, now that I think about it, where is Mikasa?" Erwin asked. "She didn't come with us to Celeb Feast."

Everybody's eyes were now focused on Levi, who completely disregarded the dish made by Auruo.

"How am I supposed to know? Mikasa's a woman, she knows how to take care of herself. I trust her to be alone because I know she's safe."

"Why haven't you eaten anything?" Auruo asked. He finally took his seat while Petra walked around pouring everybody a glass of wine.

"I have my reasons. I'll eat once I get home. Ah, the brat's not allowed to drink." Levi chimed by instinct. It was an unconscious blurt and he surprised himself when he said it. The remark just slipped out.

Eren looked up, somewhat surprised. Levi also returned the look.

"Hm, why is that?" Aururo asked. He ushered over Petra with his hand and gently took the bottle from her, kissing her hand while he was at it.

"..." Levi's brows furrowed then one of his elegant brow's arched up.

"He's not allowed to have alcohol, simple as that. He can't handle it, he's just a kid."

"I can handle it!" Eren said, slightly offended. More surprised than offended actually.

Levi nodded slightly, brushing his ebony locks from his eyes. "I don't care if you can. You're not getting hurt again."

"Hurt?" Auruo's head cocked to the left. "You hurt the poor kid? Oh, Eren, you should leave before you end up in the hospital."

"Do me a favor Auruo, and shut your fucking mouth." Levi retorted bitterly.

"What, guilty conscience?"

"... I never put him in the hospital," Levi claimed calmly. "Yes, I hurt him. But I never had intentions to hurt him... We both fucked up. Big deal. Why the fuck do you care anyway?"

Auruo shrugged. He nonchalantly cut at his meat and put it in his mouth. "Just small talk."

"Pfft, small talk my ass. More like you want to start shit,"

"Why so you say that?"

"Simple. This has been going on for years. I know your bullshit tactics, it's getting old, petty and childish. Even for you."

Auruo nearly choked on his drink. His eyes darkened dangerously as he stared at Levi. Levi, however, only smirked back. Pleased by Auruo's actions.

Auruo simply placed the glass down and picked up a napkin, wiping his lips clean of the beverage that dripped down his lips.

The man looked up, his eyes blank. As is to intimidate Levi. Then he smiled softly at the man.

"You're right. This is petty and childish, Levi," His hand extended, the smile remaining. "How about we call it a truce and put an end to out foolish rivalry?"

This wasn't right.

There was no way in hell Auruo would just give into Levi's words like that. This came to easily. Nothing in life would ever come this easy.

And that smile.

It was disgusting, vile, manipulative. Levi knew this. Levi felt it. The smile that tainted his lips was one Levi never saw the man crack, more specifically, towards him. This smile was one that would hold your hand one moment and shove a knife deep in your side in the blink of an eye.

But Levi extended his hand forward, prepared for what might happen within seconds. "Truce."

But behind Levi's back, he kept his fingers crossed. Did he need to? No. It was an unnecessary move. He was perfectly capable of keeping his word.

But he did this so Eren could see he had is fingers behind his back. Clearly Levi didn't trust Auruo, and neither should Eren. He wanted to make sure Eren was safe and cautioned himself around Auruo.

Once they pulled back their hands, Auruo stood and clasped his hands together. "Say, we came here for a reason," He stood up and escaped to the kitchen for a brief moment returning with the first cake in hand. He set the cake in front of Eren and ushered him to open the box.

"Congratulations, Eren for your time at Celeb Feast." Every shouted, except for Levi.

"Thank you for being apart of the Recon and representing us," Petra smiled.

Erwin nodded and smiled lightly, "I know we've been on your ass lately and you haven't been having any fun. But we thank you very much."

"Now, now, let's not forget about him," Auruo said, hinting at Levi. Again, he disappeared to the kitchen and came out with a cake the same size as Eren's. He set it in front of Levi and mumbled a quick "Happy Birthday," before walking on the other side of the table.

"... Its not my birthday. Today's the 23rd of December. My birthday is the 25th." He clarified.

Auruo smirked a little and wrapped his arms around Petra. "A little early birthday gift."

He looked at Eren. He noticed his cake was in a box showing it was bought from a store. While Levi's cake was set on a platter with unlit candles.

The generic "Happy Birthday" sprawled across the cake and a small Christmas Tree in the bottom right corner.

_Cute._

Eren opened up his cake and sighed softly. "I hate to complain... Um... I'm kinda a fan of chocolate... Bu-but I love it! Thank you all for this, it looks really good." He gave a small heartwarming smile before picking up his knife and putting it into the cake cutting himself a piece.

Levi eyed him, feeling his stomach twist a little. "Oi, Eren, let me take the first bite." He had no idea what kind of games Auruo was playing but he was going to take the fall for Eren.

Eren looked at him somewhat confused, but he finally realized when Levi's nodded his head softly.

Eren then handed the plate to him and frowned. His heart panged in his chest, making it ache.

Levi hesitated for a moment, picking up a fork. He looked at Eren before he sliced a small piece and put it inside his mouth.

Nothing taste strange. It was extremely sweet and that was about it. Too sweet for his liking.

He swallowed and waited for something to happen.

But nothing did.

"How does it taste, Levi?"

"Sweet. Very sweet."

"Hm. Good to know," Auruo said. "Now, Eren, how come you gave your cake to Levi?"

"... Well... I um-"

"You don't trust me, do you?"

"N-no! That's not it!" Eren lied.

"Ah, I see. Is it simply because you're Levi's bitch?"

"That's enough, Aururo!" Petra scolded. Simply he ignored the woman and continued. "Oh, come on, think about it. You're big toe has more freedom than you'll ever have being glued onto Levi. And to think you were dragged into this whole scheme. Has anybody ever thought about how you felt?"

"Y-yes? I would think-"

"No, you don't think. You should know. Has anybody ever considered how you felt?"

"I... I guess not...?"

"Good!" Aururo smiled, quickly switching the happy look for something more mischievous. "Then I'll start."

"Auruo-" Petra tried.

"How do you feel about Levi? You are his boy toy, right? Just a prop in the spot light? You're the bitch in the "relationship", correct?"

"I-"

"Or are you used as his maid? Do you clean up around his home for extra cash? Or do you sit aside and let him beat you?"

Eren took in a sharp breath. Auruo smirked. "Ahhh, I get it. You are his bitch! You sit aside and let him mutilate you just to get paid or even better for a roof over your head and food in your mouth. You probably let him fuck you for the clothes on your back. Tell me, Eren, are you dear old Levi's little whore? A disgusting, filthy hooker. You work the street corner at night too, right? Are you a prostitute for Levi? Is that how he makes his cas-"

"Levi, no!" The short male moved like lightning as he attack Auruo. Auruo turned around and flashed a quick smile at the angered man as he pushed back into the dinner table, the short male quickly easing his hand up and slamming down connecting with Auruo's jaw. Before he could make the second hit, he was hauled back by Erwin. Hanji kneeled down and held down Levi's kicking feet.

"Stop it, Levi! Ah! Don't kick me!" Hanji squealed.

"Yeah, Levi, you should calm down." There was that evil glare in Auruo's eye as Petra ran over to make sure he was alright.

"Don't tell me to fucking calm down, bastard! I'll kick in your fucking face!"

"Levi, that's enough!" Petra yelled. Auruo gently pushed her away and turned to Eren.

Levi, seeing this, on instinct, launched forward. Erwin almost lost his grip on the smaller male. "Don't fucking touch him! Hurt him and I swear!"

"Oi, Eren~" Aururo cooed, "You never answered. Do you whore yourself out to Levi?"

Eren stood up and backed away, trying to find a way out of this. This was all happening so fast and he didn't know what to do. His head was spinning, the world felt heavy as if everybody's burdens were being placed on his shoulder and forcing him down.

"Please stop..." Eren mumbled.

"Scared to be thrown out to the dogs if you say anything?"

His world started spinning, he felt like he could throw up and everything felt hot. His body trembled, his legs were weak. He could've sworn he could hear his heart at pounding in his ear drums.

He wanted this to end.

"Eren, your nose is bleeding!" Petra said.

Eren looked down, his eyes dilated. He raised his hand to his nose and felt the liquid red pouring out his nose. Quickly, he grabbed a tissue and held it to his nose.

"Eren, are you-"

"Leave me alone, Petra." Eren shouted angrily as he maneuvered his way around the table. He knocked a vase as he ran towards the staircase that lead upstairs.

!Levi pulled his arms forward with no leisure. "Let me go Erwin!"

"You need to calm yourself down!" The blonde said sternly. "Don't tell me what the fuck to do. I have to make sure that little shit is okay. Now let me go."

"You're gonna try to get Auruo again!" Hanji exclaimed.

"Look, I don't give a shit about him. Let me go to Eren! I don't want him to do something stupid..."

**~•~**

Eren tilted his face forward over the sink of hot running water. The palm of his hand cuffing his forehead. He watched as the blood pour from his nose and into the water and rush down the sink.

He could hear heavy footsteps bearing the master bed room and with a sharp turn, the foot steps neared and in a matter of seconds, Levi was in the door frame that separated the bedroom from the bathroom, almost out of breath.

"What do you want?"

"Are you okay? I came here to make sure you were alright." Levi walked into the bathroom, cautioning the drips of blood on the floor leading to the sink.

"I'm fine."

"Stop with the "I'm fine" bullshit already. It's getting old." Levi scolded, running his hands through Eren's locks. "Obviously, you're not fine. Look at you. You look like a fucking train accident."

"Thanks for the confidence boost."

"Oh shut up, you shit."

"..." Eren closed his eyes, trying to swallow back the tears. He bowed his head more and gripped his hair.

Levi sighed. He turned off the sink and gathered up a wad of toilet paper. He handed it to Eren. Once Eren took the tissue paper, Levi simply leaned down and scoped Eren up with a swift movement.

"H-hey! What are you!"

"Shut up before I change my mind." He walked out of the bathroom and around the bed and on the other side. Simply, he sunk down with Eren still in his arms and once he was on the floor, tightened his grip around the teen.

Eren's face was pressed up against Levi's chest, inhaling the scent of lavender.

... Levi's fabric softener. He knew this scent on the back of his hand and it made him feel more at ease. How long has it been since he was locked in Levi's embrace?

"How do you feel Eren? Nobody's ever asked you that, correct?"

"... Correct..." He mumbled, holding the tissue to his nose.

"Then talk. I want to know how you're feeling. We're alone, its just you and I and we both need to just unwind and take a step back and reevaluate. So, talk."

The teen shuffled himself between Levi's legs, resting his head on Levi's lap and taking a quick silent breath. "I'm stressed," Eren began.

"...Explain."

"I can never catch a break. Its always about work. And I'm thankful for the... Celebration that always escalates... But I really wanted to see my mom. A-and I'm stressed out because of Celeb Feast, even though its over I'm sure people are talking. And... Our relationship.. I stress myself out because of this too..." He turned his head and buried it on Levi's lower stomach.

"And Auruo only made it worse. I wanted to see my mom because I know she'll help me through my time of angst. She'll help me feel better about it and help me through it. Like give me advice and tell mem to follow my instinct and do what i feel is right... And once I felt better and stress free, I was gonna come and talk to you to apologize. But Auruo was down there and said all this stuff and I didn't know what to say. And I was afraid to open my mouth because last time I did that, I messed up our relationship."

"... Is that it?"

Eren nodded, his head still pressed Levi's lower stomach. "You didn't mess anything up. And I think I was the reason you messed up the second night of Celeb Feast." Levi pulled Eren closer and nuzzled his chin in the brunette's hair.

"I'm not gonna lie. We've become some poor excuse of love that's come undone. We've become undone and we need to rekindle that flame, don't you think?"

Eren shrugged, his body warming as Levi kissed his forehead. "Right now, we're just a piece of shit gasoline fire burning through the woods. We need to light a bigger flame and ignite into something more."

"You mean like a wildfire nobody came put out."

"Mhm," Levi hummed. "That's exactly what I mean."

Eren looked up at Levi. The model's facial expression softened into something Eren's never seen before. A soft smile on his lips, his eyes gentle and loving... Almost as if he was in a dream or maybe just imagining it.

So simply, he rested his head back onto his chest and closed his eyes softly. Everything fell quite. This was what he needed. A break away from society and the spotlight, he needed to get away from the magazines and online post and TV host. He just wanted this. A normal life snuggled up with Levi. This was what he's always wanted.

"Levi, did you mean what you said about you only wanting me to get back at Petra?"

Levi remained silent for moment, feeling his heart sink into the pit of his stomach. Now, he would have to tell him the complete, honest truth.

"Yes."

"..."

"When we first started this, it was all a plan to steal back Petra's heart. But then, you made me feel something. You were different. Something that made me always wonder why I chose someone like you to play date with. But then, as time passed by, I truly realized my intentions. And then I realized, oh fuck, I'm starting to like this kid, aren't I? And you are something Petra's not. Whenever I pushed you away to stop the feelings, you came back ten times harder and I started to let my guard down around you. I hate this fucking lovey-dovey shit. Its disgusting and you're only making it worse."

"So, you didn't mean it?"

"When we first met, that was the plan. But now, I kinda... Love... You... Its gross, and I'll probably shit my guts out later but you need to hear it since I've been neglecting you for the past few weeks. And honestly, when I said that, it was an impulse. I wasn't thinking and I was very pissed off that night. And I dragged you out and hurt you and I'm sorry for that. I shouldn't have done that to you. I know how sensitive you are. I won't even let you stomach alcohol. I fucking baby you, I put up with your shit. That's how much I like you."

Eren smiled and closed his eyes and let his thoughts run rapid. After a while of silence while rummaging through his thoughts, very faintly, he heard a small thumping. And even though he tried to ignore the small noise, it only grew louder like it was creeping up on his skin.

And finally, it hit him.

He could hear the man's faint, steady heartbeat.

...

...

...

...Levi has a heartbeat...

Levi has a heart...

He actually has a heart and a beautiful heartbeat that could be Eren's eternal lullaby.

"Hey Levi?"

"What brat?"

"Your heartbeat makes butterflies fly in my stomach."

* * *

A/N: Hey guys, I'm not going to stay long because my mom just got a call my grandma's just been admitted into the hospital and I really need to go. Thanks for the reviews, follows and favorites and thanks for the all around support, you guys are amazing, honestly.

Now like I promised, review response:

KiraMiracle123: Oh... Thank you. I usually get confused with words like these! Thanks for the tip and thanks for reviewing!

Beloved Nightmare Union: They would think that Eren as an adult take the job seriously with zero miatakw. Its kind like when you have a job and your boss expects it to get done perfectly without mistake or failure. And that's why they put a lot of pressure on him. And they think, "Hey, Levi can do it,why not Eren," sometimes completely disregarding the fact Eren's still just a teenage boy who was dragged into this for a paid college term. And they also forget he's not Levi! Thanks for the review :)

Leora: No, I can't have my baby attempt suicide. xD It was just because of drug withdrawal and he's fine now. Thanks for the suggestion though, I appreciate it.

Madamoiselle Nana: Thanks ^_^ your reviews make me smile.

angellovsyaoi: I'm so happy you thought it was good. I usually have troubles writing out dance scenes. It plays perfectly in my head but trying to describe it to words is kinda hard for me!

pinky chan: I sat down and reread your review a few times before I finally understood your point. I need to add an extra element to their relationship and give it more. I just have to get past all the celebrity things before I can dig down and develop their relationship further. And that's what I plan on doing next chapter.

TheSwordHolder99: I actually forgot about the story on Wattpad /hides/ I'm been so busy lately and I'm having trouble updating this one on time since I have finals this week. Thanks for managing the wattpad story though! And thanks for telling me how it's doing. I'm quite surprised to hear its doing so well.

PurpleOmpski: The reason why I wrote the chapter like this is through experience too... I didn't mean to honestly, it just came out like that. Thanks for reviewing! And I hope you find someone better!

ShouraiLink: Thanks I try to detail it as much as possible to make sure my readers understand. And more or less his words were out of compluse. But in the beginning it was a way to win back Petra's heart, now, he truly loves Eren.

Scarlet Raindrop: Thank you. And they made up in this chapter and next chapter I'm gonna try to push their relationship forward. This chapter marks the end of celebrity work and focusing more on Eren and Levi.

CandyqueenKay: I'm so sorry I hit you in the feels. Thanks for reviewing. anon: He tried to commit suicide because of drug withdrawal. He's in his right mind, trust me. And Levi does feel like shit, it's eating him away on the inside and that's the reason he's constantly snapping at Eren. He's guilty.

Guest: Well written is kinda an overstatement, but I thank you for the compliment. Hopefully, after this fan fiction my grammar and English will improve and I'll be writing more advanced words and better sentence structure. Again, I thank you for the kind review.

Glasses: I may change it to angst... Thanks for reviewing ;)

Hibary-Hiwatari: I surprised myself as well, going from smut to wanting to fucking kill each other in just two chapters. I feel like I need to hurry the story along. And thanks for reviewing, its been a while :)

Scarlet Raindrop: You're too kind ^_^ thank you very much

Magic Morgana: Your review made me cry like a bitch. Cause I get what you're saying because of experience and I just cried when I read how deep and true this is.

MaggiexxLove: You know, I was thinking about doing that but then I realized, the Recon would be kissed at Eren and it would only get worse on him so I decided to scratch the idea. It was one of the chapters I already typed up but has to start over because that would affect the rest of the story on a way I wouldn't want it to. Thank you for your review.

Mitchell343e: He went veeeeery overboard with his actions. I'm ashamed by him honestly, he should know better. Thanks for reviewing.

PurpleOmpski: And I love you for putting up with my shit :)

Shadowlove'scookies: You have better get prepared for the feels because somebody has something up their sleeve and it'll be revealed next chapter.

Nee Kuchiki TT3TT: Lol xD I have no plans on them getting married in this fic. Maybe, I'm not sure...

DOACookiMonstr: Levi, in my fan fiction and possibly canon Levi is a Kuudere. He is really cold and emotionless, but they slowly open up to their love interest/a person they trust. That's how I try to portray him in the fanfics and possibly somewhat Tsundere.

patty pancakes: Oh, it happened...

Quirinius: I killed myself on the inside having to end it like that. Seriously, I felt sooo dead inside T_T and thanks for the kind response.

NanoWorker: Lol, I was not chill with Levi when he said that but then again, Eren did throw the bait. But maaan, that was a low blow from Levi.


	23. Chapter Twenty Two: The Skin of A Plum

They sat there for what felt like an eternity. It was silent. Levi occasionally brushed Eren's hair behind his ear while Eren dozed off into a light slumber.

It remained serene until Levi's phone started ringing. Eren jumped a little, no lie there. His eyes flew open and he sat up quickly, immediately meeting Levi's finger pressed to his lips.

"Hello?"

He looked at Levi, somewhat confused. He pushed Levi's finger away from his lip and sat on his knees.

"Yes, he's speaking... Uh... He's right here," Levi handed the phone to Eren, who took it softly from his hands. He looked at the caller ID first. It was a local number, somewhere in Rose Capitol.

Eren brought it to his ear and said a sleepy, "Hello?"

"Hello, this is Eren Jaeger, am I right?" The other asked.

"Yeah, I'm Eren... May I ask who this is?"

"I'm Dr. Taylor Nash, the head nurse in the Intensive Care Unit. A few minuets ago, a woman with brown hair and brown eyes has been admitted into the hospital with theird degree burns and about three gun shot wounds to the chest, abdominal and one shot to her calf,"

Eren swallowed. He looked at Levi, giving him a quick fake smile before scurrying to his feet and into the bathroom. His heart racing, panicking. No, no. There are many woman in town who fit that description, she can't mean...

"Moments ago she was identified as Carla Jaeger."

**~•~**

The first thing Eren grabbed when he left Petra's home was his mother's present. Of course, he didn't give Levi or anybody else an explanation before he ran out the home and tried to hurry to the nearest bus stop.

But before he got there, Levi already caught up to him and demanded an explanation. Once everything was said and done, Levi said it made sense to wait for a bus and dragged him back to Petra's home. But when they got back, Levi asked to borrow Petra's car and said he'll explain everything later, something came up and its an emergency and viola, the car keys were in Levi's hand and they wasted no time. For once Levi didn't open his mouth about Eren's bitching about the nauseating smell of vanilla in her car because he kinda had to agree and he knew Eren was worried.

Bitching was a way to calm himself and release his emotion.

It was better than Eren at the hospital, ready to kill whatever came within a one foot radius because he knew Eren's temper was something not to mess with.

They were at the hospital within minutes. Levi was barely halfway into the round about before Eren pushed open the car door of a moving vehicle to hurry inside.

He tripped in the process and scrapped his elbows and the bottom of his forearms. But nothing would stop him from getting to his mother.

He rushed inside, his head whipping towards the direction of the desk, automatically signalling his legs to head for that location. "U-uhm..." He breated out, taking a quick second to regain his breath. "I-I... I'm looking for... Is there a Carla Ja-jaeger...?"

The woman blinked. She mumbled something before turning to her computer and typing in his mother's name into the computer.

When Eren looked down, out the corner of his eye he could see Levi entering the waiting room. He walked up, and wrapped his arm around Eren's back. "Is everything alright? Have you heard anything about your mother yet?"

"Yes, Carla Jaeger was admitted a few minuets ago," The woman said quickly. "Along with a Marco Bodt and a... Mikasa Ackerman?"

Levi's head snapped up and his eyes widened slightly. "Mikasa Ackerman? What's wrong with her? Why wasn't I alerted?!"

"Mikasa isn't in critical condition. She took a few minor bruises, scratches and a gunshot to her leg. She's also on respiratory because she was having difficulties breathing. She also has first degree burns."

"What room is she in?"

"Room 15 in the ICU. Make the first right down the hall on your left,"

"What about my mom? Is she okay...?" Eren's voice came out shaky and unstable. Like a child who just lost his mother in a large store.

"... She's not in the best condition. It's a lot more crucial and perilous than the other victims. She's in a very bad state."

Levi felt like he just got hit by a truck watching Eren's face twist into complete and utter despair. His eyes were glossy and his bottom lip quivered as he held himself together.

"May I ask what room she's staying in?"

"She's in room 2, ICU."

**~•~**

They stopped by Carla's room first. Levi insisted on going inside with Eren but Eren said otherwise.

"Levi, no. Go ahead and see Mikasa, ok?"

"She's in a better condition than your mom. I know she's okay because she's strong like that. I want to stay by your side."

"Levi, please!" Eren shouted, grabbing onto Levi's wrist. His expressions soften along with his voice. "I have to do this by myself. I haven't seen my mother in weeks... And to make it worse this may be the last time I see her," Eren looked down at the gift in his hands then looked back at Levi.

"I have to do this alone."

Levi inhaled then pushed Eren's hand off his wrist, taking it in his hand. "Okay. Just promise me you'll stay inside the room. I don't want you doing something stupid. I'll be back in about ten minuets, is that okay?"

Eren nodded. "That's fine."

Once Levi left, Eren knocked on the door before entering the room. Mentally and physical my preparing himself for whatever may behold him.

His heart dropped. To the deepest pit of his stomach. And dear God did it hurt him. He could barely inch towards his mother seeing her in this condition. Many tubes were going in and out of her body, an IV tube was also bring used along with a bag of blood supporting her. Her skin...

The once, milky smooth pale skin was now burned. It was singed and scarred, with spots of white on her flesh. In a few areas, her bone was exposed and the layer of muscle and tissue was also out in the open. Her skin was charred and overall nauseating.

Her heart monitor was barely beeping. Meaning she honestly didn't have long.

Eren walked closer to his mother and rested his hand on hers. He had to be careful. The skin was fragile and broken.

"Eren?" His mother's voice came out. She opened her eyes slowly. They were glassy and dark. Like she's losing all life. As if her life was slipping through her fingers.

Eren smiled, a tear streaming down his cheek. "You're awake! Mommy, I'm so happy to see you!"

She smiled a little. Not enough though.

"Yes, I'm awake sweetie... Look at my boy, it feels like a life time since I've last seen you," her thumb weakly ran over underneath his left eye, wiping the tear away.

"I... I know... I wanted to see you... N-not like this through... Its heartbreaking seeing you like this."

She nodded slowly, despite the pain. "Yes, I know."

"You know, I wanted to see you sooner. Because while I was in Vegas, I was thinking about you and I bought this."

Quickly, he unwrapped the paper and opened the sleek back fair-sized box. Inside, the black box was a necklace...

"That's very lovely, thank you so much Eren. I thought you were joking about Las Vegas... Did... You really go?"

The teen nodded, a smile forming on his lips.

" I wish I could have went. But I'm sure you had a grand time. It's about time you started experiencing the world. You started out with something big, I'm actually surprised."

"Mhm. I'm gonna leave it here. So the first thing you do when you recover is put it on."

The room fell silent. Dreadfully and painfully silent. The way her face fell from a sincere smile to a dark, sad expression was enough for Eren to want to rip his own heart out.

"Eren," her voice came out low and steady and a little rough.

"Y-yes?"

"Do you think I'll be recovering anytime soon?"

"... Yes..." He choked out.

The woman looked ashamed. She closed her eyes for a second, inhaling before she opened them again.

"Eren, on the back of the door, there's a clip board. May you bring it here?"

Eren stood up and walked towards the door, he grabbed the clipboard, and walked back over, and sitting down.

"Now, move all the papers until you see one that says Euthanasia." Now, Eren's never been a medical expert. Nor does he want to be. But that word sounded too nauseating.

So he did as he was told and quickly skimmed over the passage. His heart breaking piece by piece as he read each meaningful word.

**This hereby states that if the following patient _Carla Jaeger_ is in discomfort, pain, or any of form of suffering, we have the right (with the patient and the family member's consent and signature) to put the patient to rest.**

...

He looked up, his eyes widened in horror and on the brink of tears. H opened his mouth but he had to scower through his mind to find the right word.

"Mom... This... This is... Why?"

"Do you think it's right for me to have to live the rest of my life-like this?"

"Bu-"

"I'm in pain, Eren. I'm suffering. Do you honestly think its right to have to see your mom like this everyday? Me having to burden you. I can't move Eren, it hurts, I can barely talk. I don't want to have to go through the rest of my life with broken skin. Do you think it's fair?"

"N-no mom... But mommy, I need you. You're all I have left! Dad is gone! Please don't leave me too. I don't think I will know how to deal with that.."

"Don't be selfish, Eren. I raised you better than that."

"Mommy, I-"

"I can't live like this Eren. I'm hurting beyond belief. You don't know how bad I'm hurting right now..."

"Mom..."

"Eren put your hand above my heart." He did as told, waiting for his mother's next instruction. "I was shot somewhere near there. And the doctor said the bullet is lodged deeply inside my chest and the doctors can't remove it yet... It will only hurt more as time goes by. I'm already in agonizing pain. Do you think that's right?"

"But mom, what am I supposes to do?! I need you, my life's barely begun. What am I supposed to do without you?"

"You're supposed to live on,"

"Mom!"

"Eren, that's enough."

"..."

"Please, for once, why don't you listen to me? Even on my deathbed, you're still stubborn." Swallowing broken glass and pouring bleach on his eyes would be a much easier task than hearing that. Dear God, that was a shot through the heart hearing those words. He nearly broke down hearing that. He couldn't take this. Everything in his life was collapsing too fast and he was afraid there would be no end until it comes down to him just breaking down and killing himself.

She was right. As her son, he is to do what's right. Even if that meant this. It would make his mother happy. And that's all he wants.

Her happiness.

"What am I supposed to do?" He slowly asked.

She smiled a little. She motioned him forward and kissed his forehead.

"Sign the papers. I love you very much Eren. Don't ever forget that."

**~•~**

When Levi knocked to enter, he got no response. So, he took it upon himself to enter. But once he did, he saw only Carla and a doctor disconnecting all the IV's and such from her.

Levi sighed, feeling a little empty inside.

He leaned against the wall and brushes his hair from his eyes. As if things couldn't go from bad to worse with the blink of an eye.

Speaking of eyes, where is Eren? Levi's eyebrows furrowed as he pushed his weight off the wall and took his phone from his pocket. He typed up a quick text, sent it, then began walking around. There weren't many places to go.

First he checked the main lobby, then he checked the cafeteria. Then he went out to his car and found nothing. He checked his phone once more before looking up towards the sky. It was freezing out here. And the brat isn't stupid enough to try to walk home. He doesn't have his jacket and it didn't make sense if he didn't have his phone on him.

When he walked back inside, his phone vibrated.

**Eren: I'm in the back. In the hospital's garden**.

Of all places... He wasn't going to send a message back. He simply slid his phone in his pocket and asked the receptionist where the garden was.

**~•~**

Once Levi opened the door to the back, a harsh chill braced him. He was stunned him briefly.

"Eren?" The sounds of a large water fountain danced with the howling wind. The teen sat on the edge of the fountain, hugging his knees to his chest. He wasn't crying, no. Much to Levi's surprise.

He closed the door and walked over to Eren. He hovered over him for a moment before taking a seat. He swung his legs up and put his back against Eren's.

"... You know... Its cold out here."

"Obviously..."

"Where's your jacket, brat?"

He shrugged. "I don't need it. Sooner or later I'll catch hypothermia and die."

"..." Levi remained quiet for a moment. The model removed his jacket and threw it around Eren. "Don't say that. We don't need to lose another valued soul around here."

"... I don't want to be here..." Eren mumbled. It fell silent and Eren let the sounds of the fountain calm him.

Even through the water made noise, it still couldn't drown out Eren's small whimpers. To Levi, it sounded as if he was holding a lot of emotions back...

"Are you crying?" Levi asked.

"Wh-what? No! I'm not crying..."

"Why not?"

"... Because... I'm strong just like you, Levi. You never cry."

Levi snickered. He grabbed Eren's chin and kissed him on the cheek. "Flattering," he said. "You're cute for a brat. But that's not how this works. You show strength when you cry. For me... I just can't cry. I don't know how to and if I cry, I'm afraid I'll do something irrational and make matters worse. And if that happens, I might never be able to pick myself back up. So I chose not to cry."

Eren nodded. Levi dug into his pocket and pulled out a box of cigarettes and a lighter. He put the stick in big mouth and lit it, making a puff of smoke as he exhaled.

He waited for Eren's retort to stop but got nothing.

"Go ahead," Levi said with the stick still between his teeth. "Cry."

He felt a sense of relief when Eren finally let his guard down and started to cry. It was much better emotional relief instead of keeping his emotions restricted and have a complete emotional breakdown that will only lead to depression or worse.

Eren was a balling mess. His tears streamed down his face as he pressed his face deeper between his knees.

Levi hated to see Eren like this but it was the very first step to Eren's recovery.

Simply, Levi relit the cigarette and takes in a bigger puff of the poisonous fume. He could feel his head clearing and his body distressing. This was a terrible habit and he was planning on dropping the disgusting deed soon. But tonight, it was what he needed. He closed his eyes and drew in. Once the black ring floated around his head, he mumbled.

"And while you're at it... Cry for me too."

* * *

A/N: I just died on the inside... No joke...

Thanks for the reviews, follows and favorites! Oh thank you guys for breaking the 200 review marker! Thanks for being loyal readers! It makes me so happy to know you guys are attentive readers and love the fic despite it's flaws. That's how I know I have the best readers anybody could ask for.

And can somebody please take Eren away from me?! I don't deserve him. I can't keep treating him like this! Someone take him away from me! I'm crying right now! T_T Then give him back when I learn to treat him right.

Oh Eren, I need to stop... You know I love you baby, I promise to make it better! And did anybody else feel a part of their heart being ripped and stepped on when Eren called Carla "Mommy."? I swear I cried while reading this chapter. And I was listening to Breathe Me by Sis while writing the scene between Carla &amp; Eren.

And can we have a moment of silence for Carla? Please?

We'll be finding out what happened in the next chapter. We'll be finding out everything.

**Edit: Thank you to ChiVall for telling me the correct term for Euthanasia. Before it was Absoulute Deathway. So a big shout out them.**

Review Response:

TheSwordHolder99: She's doing alright right now actually, thank you. Payback will be next chapter. Or maybe a little after. But a lot will be coming out next chapter I can barely wait. Happy end? I'm actually not sure. I just go with the flow. But possibly, yes. There will be a good ending.

Guest: You have a whole army on your side. I have made many people dislike Auruo in this fic xD

Beloved Nightmare Union: Thank you for the hopes for my grandma. Thank you so much. And we are coming to an end soon. I'll be done hopefully by late January maybe early February next year? That's with writer's block. Sometimes I can just whip up a chapter off the back of my hand other times procrastination is my middle name.

a: It's a rushed confession because I was rushing it on the way to the hospital to see my grandma. But it's genuine, trust me. As the chapter's continue, you'll see Levi is true to his word. And I never meant to showcase abuse and I hope it doesn't ruin the fanfic for you.

pinky chan: Thanks for the kind words. Next chap. I'll be explaining why Auruo's like this and won't leave Levi and Eren alone.

SisBloodCarnivalOtaku: Really? Thank you so much! I'm planning on using French waaaaaaaaay later in the story so it may be a while before I need a translator. But thank you very much, you don't know how much I appreciate it.

Mitchell343e: Ohh, next chapter is going to be something, just wait. And I'll explain why Auruo's always starting shit and trying to mess up Levi and Eren's relationship every chance he gets. I'm so sorry for this chapter! I know, I'm pretty sure everybody was wanting Eren to see his mom... Just... You guys weren't expecting to see her on her deathbed... Oh... And they're chapter is bring rebuilt.

Shadowlove'scookies: Bitchweasle. Lol, I'm dying. And I love Auruo in the anime, in my story, I couldn't resist making him the antagonist. Thanks for the review.

Magic Morgana: Very wise words. Couldn't have said it better myself. And I was surprised and hapoy when you realized Petra acting all comforting to Eren but disregards him later. Next chapter, you'll see why. And I'm going go go over why nobody ever stops Auruo in the next chapter as well but they stop Levi every time. Again, everybody has such high expectations of Eren they look past the fact he's not Levi. He's continuously viewed as a second Levi who can take whatever anybody has to throw at him. They forget he's Eren in the flesh. Not Levi.

NanoWorker: I laughed at the first half of your comment because I though the same thing when I read the last part of the chapter. Then I realized, he kinda does. Becuase I noticed how drastically he changed when someone dies. And I know how much he values human life. And thanks, I'm in love with the last half of the chapter too.

PurpleOmpsk: You know, there's always something better. I always wanted to fix everything with my ex too. He was my everything. But then I realized, you have to let something go to get something even better in return. Thanks for reviewing.

Scarlet Raindrop: Thank you. And in this chapter, there was a large unexpected turn that really hurt me on the inside... I actually have almost no idea where I'm going with this but I think by the next chapter, I'll be answering the one major question in this story. Thanks.


	24. Chapter Twenty Three: Dark Chocolate

Over the span of the next few days, Eren was a complete emotional wreck. Levi thought it was painful to see the Eren in such state, it was even more terrible seeing Carla's death certificate and other medical information.

It gave vague details about the incident.

Turns out there was a fire at the cafe and the whole place burned down. However, the gun shot wounds on the three victims still remains a mystery. The first conclusion investigators came up with was there was a burglary that they tried to stop.

They were still waiting for Mikasa and Marco to wake up for questioning but that may be a few days to a few weeks.

Investigators were still snooping around the debris and rubble trying to find more evidence towards their claim. Eren wasn't allowed near the shop until further notice or until police contacted him for questioning.

Levi was trying his best to be by Eren and comfort him the best way he could. But Eren would only push him away. And that was understandable. He needed time on his own but Levi wanted to make sure Eren was still safe and comfortable.

Late one night, Levi got a quick voicemail from Petra asking him to come over to receive a gift for Eren and to sit down for a small talk.

Now Levi never had intentions on leaving Eren home alone considering his state, but maybe she knew something about the fire? Or something about the incident... Any little detail, a small hint, even if it's something found they would be one step closer to figuring out who did this.

Later that night, when Eren fell into a deep slumber for the night, Levi left.

If Eren was to wake up, which didn't seem likely because he took insomnia pills and he was snoring which he never did unless he was completely knocked out, Levi left a note on the bathroom counter explaining where he was going. But not the exact reason why he was headed to Petra's estate.

It took about an hour and a half to get over to her home.

He pulled into the driveway and turned off his headlights before they shined through the large window. He then turned off his car and sat back against the seat for a moment.

He looked at his phone and saw it was seventeen minuets past midnight. Taking in a deep breath, he got out the car. The brisk air battering against his face as he shoved his hands into his jacket. He was dressed lightly.

In case anything happens, he would be able to maneuver with ease instead of with heavy baggage weighing and slowing him down.

Once he got to the front door, he rang the door bell and took a few steps back for caution.

Within moments, he heard the lock on the door turn and finally, the ginger haired woman peered from the slightly ajar door before opening it.

She smiled and said, "I didn't think you were coming."

"Yes, well... I'm here."

"Come in," she opened the door wider inviting him in. He walked inside, removing his lightweight jacket leaving him his dark gray sweatshirt.

He heard the door close and lock, making his senses enlighten and sharpen. He needed to be prepared for whatever may happen. Always expect the worst.

"You can take a seat in the dining room."

"No, thank you."

"Please, I insist. We've left something on the table," Petra through her jacket around her and grabbed her keys. "So if you want it, don't be afraid to take it."

"Where are you going?"

"Auruo's been feeling ill lately so I'm heading out to buy him medicine. But in the dining room I left Eren's present."

The woman waved a little before walking out, leaving him in the middle of her home. He looked around, waiting for some type of sign. And without anything to provoke him to leave as well, he decided to do as he was told and go into the dining room. He was doing this for Eren, she probably had something and didn't want to be around? Maybe she didn't want to be there to explain? They all felt like bullshit excuses but it didn't stop him from continuing.

Inside the room was dark. It was dimly lit with the exception of a small glowing light coming from the table. He put his hand into his pocket and walked towards the large table.

One foot in front of the other, it was a matter of time before he was in front of the source of light.

His birthday cake.

The same one Auruo made for him with the stupid fucking Christmas tree rotting in the bottom right corner. The cake was disgusting. It was rotting, obviously it's been exposed for too long and the flies have gotten to picking at it.

Why did they still have the disgusting thing and most importantly was was it lit?

Were they planning on sitting him down and eating this shit?

His heart stopped for a moment and his body froze as a large object was wrapped around his throat, pulling him back.

He took in a sharp intake of breath, soon realizing he had dropped his weapon.

"Oi Levi~" Well shit. Speak of the devil and the devil will come. His eyes narrowed darkly and Auruo's arm was finally released from his throat, but Levi was only pushed forward, into the table. He was shoved closed to the cake while both hands were held behind his back and his head was pushed closer to the flames.

"Its good to see you again Levi!"

"Mhm, I agree." Levi said with a soft smirk, not sounding the least bit intimidated by the open flames "So what are you planning to do, Auruo? Trying to get on me now?"

"Why do you say that?"

"Ha... You're boner's poking my ass."

"Flirting, are we?" Auruo let go of Levi's head and turned his around, not letting go of his hands.

"Don't get too cocky," Levi said with a roll of his eyes.

"Sorry, I'm taken by your woman. And on the downside, I fucking dispise you. So, you better go home to your little boy toy."

"Dont worry, when this is all over I will. And I just thought I'd let you know, Eren is the best fuck I've ever had. Every time we were finished, I always questioned why I ever went with Petra. And I'm happy she's screwing you now. Is she still doing a half-assed job?"

"She's definitely improved." He noticed Auruo's lips thinned and his hands tightened.

"So, he really is a fuck buddy? A fling?"

"No. You've got Eren all wrong. He's not a fucking whore or whatever you make him out to be. He's my boyfriend. Get shit straight."

"Boyfriend?"

"That's right. In the flesh. Not only in the spotlight but behind closed doors too."

The man scoffed. "That's a shame if you ask me."

"It's a shame that your parents had you, but that's if you ask me. So, Auruo, I'm not here for shits and giggles, I'm here for information. Tell me, what's this bullshit on your dining table?"

"Oh that! Its your birthday present of course."

"Disgusting."

"Why so?"

"I have no intentions on celebrating my birthday, especially after all that's happened."

Auruo smirked and let go of Levi's hands. "Take a seat, boy."

"I'm not your dog, so don't talk to me as if I am."

"Ha, soon, once you have nothing, you will be."

"It'll be a damn shame if a dog walks over it's owner," Levi took a seat at the end of the table, his small knife visible through the corner of his eye. "So don't get too confident."

He snarled when he felt Auruo leaning over him, but he was somewhat confused when a knife and a fork was placed in front of him. But he soon understood when Auruo said "Eat up," with a quick pat to Levi's shoulder.

The model watched the man walk around the table, taking a seat at the opposite end of Levi, directly in front of the window.

"Now, Levi, let's go over some ground rules before you cut your cake, shall we?" Auruo dug into his pocket and pulled out two items. A remote and a small picture. First, he held up the remote.

"You see this? This is this home's security system. Now, with the click of this button, this will lockdown the entire home meaning no one can get in and no one can get out unless it's deactivated. This button over here sends a distressed signal to the police meaning if I press this button, I can send the cops and say you were caught trespassing on private property, but that's only if you fail to abide by me. But here's the catch, I could either press this button and say you were trespassing or give them this piece of evidence as to who burned down Titan Chronical."

Levi's eyes widened slightly, he was ready to get up and grab that photo and kill whoever did this. But then again, how did Auruo get his hands on it...? That's the one thing that never crossed his mind until now.

"Who is that?" Levi asked sternly.

Auruo turned the picture so Levi could see it. It was a man, who's height was average. However, he was too tall to stand as Levi. But you couldn't tell by the bird's eye view shot. He had black hair and fair skin...

"What the-"

"It's you." The man said calmly.

"No it's not!" Levi shouted. "I was with Eren when we got the call, I didn't leave your house once."

"Mhm," Auruo hummed. "That is true. But are the cops really gonna believe you when I have the evidence right here? Think about it now, this looks exactly like you-"

"But you can't see the face." Levi clarified.

"You're right. It is an above ground shot. But whatever, It still looks bad on your part."

"... What kind of sick game are you playing?"

"A game by my rules. It doesn't matter which way you turn, I'll always have the upper hand."

"Who burned down the shop?"

"I may or may not have hired a special someone to do the job... Pretty shitty job if you ask me. I gave strict instructions to kill all three victims. He didn't even kill one of them. Carla, right? The old hag who have birth to your new boy toy, she went with _voluntary_ euthanasia. She's a little bitch if you ask me. Can't take a little burnt skin-"

"You bastard!" Levi was quick on his feet, picking the knife off the table and running towards Auruo this is to end now.

"Ah, ah, ah, not so fast," he held the remote teasingly. Levi was a mere good inches a way from him and he came to a skidded stop, the knife nearly lodging into Auruo. "You don't want to go to jail, do you?"

"What the hell's your problem? Why the hell did you have to bring Eren and his family into our little sin game? How the hell was that any fair on Eren's behalf? He barely knew us for a year, he hasn't been with the Recon for more than a year and already he's a fucking mess. He shouldn't have to be suffering like this, he's still a fucking kid who still can't tie his own tie. And to make the shitstorm worse, he lost his mother almost a week and a half ago. And you're sitting in your luxury home fucking Petra and drinking vodka while Eren's home crying his eyes out when he should be out enjoying his years. But of course he can't do that. Don't you think he needs a break? He had to sign papers for his mother to be _euthanized._ How the fuck do you think he's feeling?! No teenager should have to go through this,"

Auruo put down the remote and slid it across the table. He laced his fingers together, a small smirk forming.

"And you think this is all fun and games. You're fucking immature. I am too because I always give in. But let me tell you something, I intend to but an end to this hellish game,"

Levi's hand tightened around the handle of the knife and he launched forward. Something twisted in his stomach. Something felt strange. Why wasn't Auruo moving? Why wasn't his scowering away like the scum he was.

But once he saw the silver object pulled out his pocket, Levi finally understood why.

He didn't have the chance to defend himself before the gun was cocked and fired, grazing his shoulder.

Immediately, Levi dropped the knife and held onto his shoulder, groaning him pain. He looked up when Auruo stood, and walked over. He picked up Levi by his thick black locks and pulled him up, placing the gun to the back of his head.

"Like I said Levi, I'll always be ahead of you."

"Give me one good reason why you're bringing Eren into this."

"... Simple. It's because of Petra. Now, we're both the same-"

"We're not the fucking same!"

"Open your damn eyes," Auruo growled, tightening his grip in his hair.

"We're both jealous fucks. That's why I bought Eren into this. Because Petra was still wondering about you and constantly wondering how you were doing and it pissed me off constantly. Now, I know you have a thing for Eren and you seemed happy. You're looks changed, you've gotten more confident in yourself, you seemed... Happier... While I had to listen to Petra talk about "How about we invite Levi over?" Or "How do you think Levi's doing?" And to make matters worse she starting to bring Eren into our conversations."

"She still wonders about me?"

"Sadly,"

"Petra and I are nothing anymore." Levi said, his voice lowering an octave.

"I don't give a damn! I want you and that little fuck out of our lives so I never have to hear or see you ever again."

Levi growled. He needed a way to flip the script. He looked around for a way out.

Simply, he sighed and moved his head back quickly then swung it forward, his head knocking against Auruo's crotch. That gave Levi a few seconds to get up and run over to grab his knife. He scrambled to his feet, his arm stinging as he did.

He was close to the object before something grabbed onto his ankle and pulled him back. He looked up to see Auruo hovering over him and within seconds, he was hauled up and pushed up against the wall, a vase tumbling over in the ruckus. Levi noticed Auruo had dropped his gun and remote.

Levi raised his arm and slammed his elbow into Auruo's face. Once his feet hit the floor, Levi grabbed ahold of Auruo's collar and connected his fist to his face.

When Auruo fell to the floor, Levi walked over and stepped on him. Levi always thought he was stronger with his fist more than his feet but hell, you learn something new everyday.

He watched Auruo curl into a ball and he scowled. "Pathetic,"

Levi turned on his feet and started to leave.

"It's embarrassing that you let a "dog" walk all over you. I don't know about you, but I think pain is the best discipline for scum like-"

Shots fired.

One gun shot fired into the back of Levi's right leg and another one fired on Levi's forearm, the same arm the bullet grazed him.

He dropped down, grabbing his thigh. Another bullet grazed the side of his neck, the flesh turning red and irritated.

Levi turned around to see Auruo walking over to him, the gun tightly gripped in his hand.

The model had to do something and quick. There was no way in hell he was dying here and specifically at the hands of Auruo. He looked around and saw a way out.

Quick on his feet, despite the pain, he ran over to the broke vase, a gun following close behind him. He rolled to the floor quickly picking up a large chunk of the vase and throwing it at Auruo, the glass successfully launching into Auruo's knee.

Once Auruo dropped, Levi grabbed another piece of glass and limped over to Auruo as quick as he could.

Auruo looked around quickly for his gun. Once it was in his hand, he held it up.

It was one on one. The gun barrel was right between Levi's eyes. However, Levi was disadvantaged. He only had a piece of glass which could only do so much. Not as much as a single bullet though.

But Levi was never one to be looked down upon. As he stared at Auruo, a plan was wracking through his brain ready to take affect at any given moment.

Auruo smirked, his finger toying with the trigger, irritating Levi.

"This isn't a fair fight... Is it?" The man asked sarcastically.

Levi snickered, a cocky, prideful smirk on his lips, showing his natural confidence. "I don't know when this'll sink into your thick ass skull, Auruo, but I couldn't give a single fuck. As long as I successfully wipe you off this earth, I'll die a happy man."

"Who says I'll die? One pull of the trigger and you're done for. You'll be a souvenir on our dining room wall, overlooking our meal."

"Please, don't piss yourself. You shouldn't underestimate me, Bozado. You'll end up a dead man."

The room fell silent. They only waited for one of them to make a move so the other could end their life with a swift movement.

Levi was waiting. Just wanting the man to make a move...

Instead, Auruo started laughing. He exploded into a loud, uproar of laughter that threw Levi off. He didn't let his gaurd down even if Auruo did put the gun down. The rapturous laughter was like running nails on a chalkboard to Levi.

His eye twitched, watching the man wither and bellow as if this was all just a fun, sick, dangerous game.

Wait a second.

This was.

That's all this ever was.

A game played by rivals.

The man's laughter died down, but not his twisted smiled. He looked at Levi, his eyes dark and his voice filled with venom.

"Oi, Levi, let's never end this. Let's take it to the grave."

"Eh?"

Auruo swung his foot to trip Levi, but Levi moved out the way quickly. But once he landed on his leg, he collapsed and immediately grabbed his wounded leg.

Auruo stood, removing the chunk of glass with a long, deep painful groan. He pointed the gun at Levi and began.

"We don't have that much longer before Petra gets home and she has no idea what's going on. So, let's hurry this along," he walked over to the cake with a soft limp, trying his best to ignore the stinging pain.

He then put the cake on Levi's lap and simply said, "Go ahead, eat it."

"I'm not eating this shit. What's in it?"

"Smart boy," he teased. He dug inside his pocket and threw a bottle at him. Levi's stomach twisteded and churned as he read the label watched Auruo turn on his heel to leave the room.

It was in a clear bottle with a black top.

"I drugged your precious Eren. I was wondering what to get you for your special day that would really surprise you,"

_Phencyclidine_.

"I'm sorry I couldn't give it to you on your birthday,"

_Also known as PCP_.

"But I thought, now that Eren's lost everything, why not top off the cake?"

_PCP is known as a dissociative anesthetic._

"So let's recap,"

_Users of the drug seem to be "disconnected" from the environment around them._

"I stole your wife,"

_It distorts perceptions of sight and sound_.

"I'm going to marry her. I fucking hate you and your disgusting boy toy,"

_And produces feelings of detachment._

"I hated him so much I tried to kill him just to watch you suffer,"

_PCP can have different effects on different people._

"But that didn't work so when we invited you over for dinner, I was planning on poisoning you with cake. That cake is filled with Alcohol and Phencyclidine. I wanted you to eat it and croak so I laugh at your expression and to watch Eren breakdown, crying to bring you back. But you're smarter than you look. But I knew you would know something's up. So since I couldn't get rid you, I would get rid of people who meant something to you and Eren."

Levi swore he could hear his heartbeat muddling his hearing. He had no control over his actions anymore. Only one thing was on his mind and that was to kill Auruo.

His body was aching in pain, his leg was yelling at him to stop. But he kept at the man.

He wasn't as agile. It was hard for him to move with the bullet still launched in his leg. Auruo was much quicker now. But Levi's senses were much more enlightened and alerted.

However, Levi knew he was going to fall out soon. There was no way he was going to be able to continue this with his leg and body in such state. Finally, Levi, slightly out of breath collapsed to his knees.

"Giving up?"

He didn't respond. Instead, he tightly held onto his leg.

Auruo smiled. "What? You think because you got a few bullet wounds I'll go easy on you? Ha, don't make me laugh,"

Auruo walked over to the remote and picked it up. "When you get to prison, don't forget to write. Okay?"

And with the blink of an eye, a siren went off and all the doors locked.

* * *

A/N: I'm pretty sure it was kinda obvious Auruo did it xD I tried not to make it so blunt but hey, it's all good...

Kinda...

Ugh, I can't write a fight scene for my life /hides in shame/ but I loved the idea of Levi using a vase as a weapon because Eren did the same thing.

I'm gonna lighten things a little next chapter cause everybody, including me, needs it. I explained PCP and how it works because a reader sent me a PM asking me to expain the drug and how it works.

Thanks for all the sweet sugary love, my readers. I thank you all very much for it!

Till next time!

Merry Christmas!

Review Response:

Shadowlove'scookies: Thank you. And Merry Christmas! I feel like adding fluff next chapter

Beloved Nightmare Union: I'm trying to stay away from canon Eren as much as possible cause he's batshit insane. And I try to tone him down a few. And I'm so sorry it brought up unpleasant memories for you... I was hesitant to do this at first but then I just wrote it. Usually when I sit down and write a chapter I think of the following things:

How will it affect a character?

Will it cause character development?

How will it affect the other chapters, story progression and plot?

That's what I go by. And as the chapters continue, you'll understand why Carla died. Besides what you just read in this chapter. You'll see a few characters changing. Again, I'm sorry it brought up bad memories. Merry Christmas to you and thanks.

NanoWorker: Lol, thanks for the trophy! I never meant to kill anybody's feels... I thought I'd have this chapter done wayyy before Christmas but I had a major writers block that threw me off.

Guest: Thank you. And oh my gosh, I'm sorry to hear about you lost. I lost my dad back in 2010 so I know how you feel. I hope you have a good Chriatmas! And thanks for dropping a review. Again, Merry Christmas!

Guest: Thank you. And you really got that excited for a new update?! Now I really feel bad for typing up this chapter. Thanks for reviewing. Merry Xmas

Glasses: I will lighten the mood soon. I think everybody needs it. Have a good Christmas

pinky chan: I hope I explained enough details. If there's any questions you have, just ask! Thank you. Merry Xmas

Mitchell343e: Oh Auruo did something... And he will be leaving them alone for a while, we won't be seeing him till probably the end of the fanfic cause now I wanna focus more on Ereri. Merry Christmas

PurpleOmpski: I'm so sorry... I promise I'll stop with the feels. Merry Christmas.

ShouraiLink: I was actually going to do that. While writing this chapter, I wanted to have Levi say his goodbyes to her as well, but I have something in mind and maybe next chapter I'll do it. Thanks for reviewing. Happy Xmas!

Hibary-Hiwatari: This happened because of Auruo. And more of that will be interpreted in the next chapter. And I'm leaving Eren alone, that's it. He can't take anymore. And no, I'm not making him seek revenge and a complete rate machine of a teenaged boy like the canon verse. And I'm leaving Marco alone, don't even... T_T No. The cafe is no longer standing and where Eren will live will be sorted out next chapter. Merry Christmas!

Bittersweet Alchemist: If this chapter will hurt he, I would suggest she not go near it. I know what its like to lose someone you love dearly. So really, an extra read or review and such doesn't matter to me. Don't let her read this chapter if it'll upset her. You and her have a Merry Christmas!

Scarlet Raindrop: I know. I have many loyal readers and I'm thankful for you guys. Honestly, I have no idea how you put up with me xD Merry Christmas and thanks

ChiVall: Thank you a million for that! You have no idea how happy I am! Have a good Xmas!


	25. Chapter Twenty Four: Pecan Tart

The last thing Levi could recall was getting manhandled by police, cold hand cuffs choking his wrist and being thrown into a holding cell overnight. He wouldn't dare fall asleep in such filthy conditions but his body got the best of him. He had to cover up with the blankets because of shock. He didn't let the police know he was shot be cause like hell they were gonna do anything, he'll just head to hospital when he gets a chance. And as Auruo said Don't tell the police anything or you wont be seeing Eren's pretty face anymore. He wasn't going to take Auruo's softly. Better safe than sorry. Plus if he lost Eren then there will be absolutely no restraints of Levi's behalf. If anything is to happen to Eren and Auruo is the cause of it, he will kill him.

_Dead._

He was confused when he woke up the next day. Absolutely disgusted when he figured out he was drooling and his head settled on the filthy bench he sat on, but he quickly dropped it once he saw Eren paying bail.

"E-eren?" He muttered, his words slurred as he spoke.

The teen only looked at him, his eyes dim. He watched the brunette with heavily lidded eyes before the officer stood up and walked over to the cell.

"It's your lucky day," the officer said, running his hand over his keys and taking the correct one, quickly shoving it into the lock and turning it.

"Now get your sorry ass out here, bub. I don't wanna see your face again."

**~•~**

He wished Eren knew how to drive. Because if he did they wouldn't be sitting at the bus stop waiting for a fucking bus in shitty weather. And the pain Levi was in was beyond belief. They had to walk half a mile to the bus stop first of all and the bullet was still in his leg. But he managed to stop the bleeding by tying his belt around his leg.

But that did not allievate the pain radiating from injured areas of his body. However, Levi was not the one who should be complaining right now, should he?

He looked over at Eren, who stared down mindlessly down the street waiting for the bus to arrive. He looked like he was in a deep mind of thought. Levi only glimpsed at him occasionally, trying to piece together the right words to say into a sentence.

"Hey... Eren...?"

"Hm?" He hummed acknowledging the man. Though he didn't look at him.

"Where'd you get the money to pay bail...?"

"..." Finally Eren looked at him and scratched the back of his head. He smiled awkwardly and said, "Well, funny thing about that. I kinda know where you keep a secret stash of money in the house... Not so secret anymore... Ha ha.. Ha..."

"..."

"... A-are you mad? I'm sorry..."

"No I'm not mad. Why'd you do that? And why the fuck do you know where I hide money, brat?"

"Well, I got a call around eight this morning and it said you were trespassing and they were going to hold you here until Monday night and I didn't want to wait that long and I didn't want to be alone and I know you wouldn't like it in there so I took the money and bailed you out. I promise I didn't take anything else I just didn't want you to be in there for so long."

"How do you know where I hide money?"

"Oh that? Well, the last time we had sex and when we were getting dressed the next day, while you were showering, I was looking for my next shoe and I looked underneath the bed and I saw a fair sized box and-"

"So being the nosy fuck you are, you looked in it?"

"... Yes...?" Eren drew out.

"Thanks for bailing me out. You saved the skin on my ass. How much was bail?"

"1600 dollars."

"I see."

"You're not mad?!"

"Pfft, nope. It's my money and my stupidity, why the hell would I be mad?"

"... Okay... What happened your leg? Actually," Eren turned to Levi and brought his legs up. "Tell me everything that happened. Why did you go and why are you so hurt?" Eren's fingers ran over Levi's neck, the man flinching as he did so.

"Didn't you read the note?"

"What note?"

"Looks like my questions been answered..."

"Not mine,"

Levi stayed silent for a moment. He signed heavily and said, "Petra invited me over to talk about some things. It escaladed and Auruo and I got into a fight. He pulled a gun and-"

"He pulled a gun? Why didn't you called me?! I would've came to help you!"

"How exactly? First, I'm a hundred percent sure you don't have have a license, more so, a permit. Second, you don't have my keys. And lastly, there's no way in hell I'm letting you drive my car. Wait a second-" he stood up, digging in his pocket and pulling out his car keys.

"Why the hell are we taking the bus when I can drive?! And where the hell's my car?"

Eren half smiled. "Yeaaaaah, about that... The officer said your car was towed so-"

"Are you fucking kidding me?!" Levi exclaimed. "No..."

"Jesus Christ..." He pinched the bridge of his nose. "What a pain in the ass..."

Shortly, Eren began giggling following by a muffled laughter. "Do you think this is funny, you shit?!"

Eren covered his mouth and he squeezed his eyes shut before muttering a small, "You're gonna ride the bus now."

His eyes narrowed mixing between confusion and irritation. "What are you getting at?"

"Aha! You're filthy fucking rich!" Eren smiled loopsidely, tugging st Levi's hands.

"Yeah, okay, big deal? And stopping pulling me, get to the fucking point. You're pissing me off."

"You can basically burn money, and now, you, Mr Levi Ackerman has to ride the bus. A community transmit. A public ride! You can finally see what it's like to be broke!"

"I'm not broke dumbass. And calm your ass down, it's just the bus, I'll disinfect you and I later."

"Ahaha, you're gonna ride the bus~" he pulled at Levi's check until the man smacked it away. "God, don't become a second Hanji. I'll drop your ass quicker than a hot pot."

He paused for a moment to see Eren's smile dying down a little but it still held that happy glow. Levi wanted to smile a little, in which he did, and ran his finger underneath Eren's eye.

"Its good to see your smiling again. I missed it."

**~•~**

Once Levi got home, the first thing he did was collapse on the couch. He was beyond exhausted and he felt fucking disgusting having to ride the bus. He had no problem with it. He would do it again with Eren. However, if there is another person coughing, sneezing and doing anything of the sort in such a small, enclosed area such as the bus, Levi will have to take it upon himself to correct the person, cleanse his surroundings and himself and politely or quite rudely - leave the area.

Eren closed the door and sighed heavily, bushing his hair from his eye and behind his ear. He walked around to couch to see Levi holding his leg and groaning silently to himself.

"Levi, are you alright?"

"Yeah, I'm fine. Just a minor wound, nothing serious." He brushed Eren's words off nonchalantly.

"... Then let me see."

"Nope."

"Why not?"

"Because I don't want you to."

"Are you sure you're okay?"

"Yes," Levi snapped. "Leave me alone, go read or something, just don't bother me."

"See, you're a liar. Because obviously something's up. You're sitting on your beyond clean couch, a couch so clean I could eat food off it, and you're all sweaty and... Bloody...? Levi, what happened?" Eren marched over and tried to move Levi's hand away from his leg but Levi pushed him away.

"Like I said before, just a stupid misunderstanding. This is nothing, I can deal with it."

Eren stood for a moment, staring at the model who refused to lock eyes with him. So, Eren raised his arm and hit Levi's leg. Not too hard but hard enough to get a pained reaction that was not something Levi would respond with.

Levi had a high tolerance for pain, so a man of Eren's muscle mass- which was about the equivalent of a fourth grader, quoted by Levi- was very unlikely and unusual for the man. "What the hell was that for?!" Eren crawled on Levi with almost no struggle at all. The man squirmed underneath him but he injury was provoking him for doing much more than he was capable of. "Get off me!"

"Let me look at the wound, please? Just to make sure you're okay. It might be a lot worse than you think... And I don't think I can handle losing you too... So for safety precautions?" He said slowly. His voice died down softly, gentle on Levi's ears.

"I fucking hate you, fuckface." He said bitterly, but a little softer than usual.

Eren smiled lightly. "I love you more."

Within a few minuets, Levi was sitting up while Eren sat on the floor settled between Levi's leg. He had to cut Levi's pants right below where his belt was wrapped tightly around his thigh to his dismay.

"Hm... Levi, scoot over," Eren climbed onto the couch once he did as told and pulled the living room table with medical supplies aka common household items closer to him.

"Okay, now flip into your stomach so I can see the wound,"

"I still think this is stupid." He said, shuffling him to follow Eren's instructions.

"Hush." the teen scolded. He pulled Levi's leg onto his lap and got to work. The first thing he did was clean up the injury, it was dried with blood and his pants managed to soak up most of it, but it still wasn't clean. So taking a cloth soaked with alcohol he cleaned around the wound with ease. The bullet, lucky, didn't lodge too deep in Levi's leg and Eren used tweezers and a pair of medical scissors, skillfully and carefully nipping away at the dead flesh and excess to clean around the bullet. Levi's flesh tore around it a little bit causing the man to groan and bite down into his hand with a calm expression.

With a small cloth dabbed with alcohol, he wiped around the wound to both cleanse and lubricate it.

He was going to have to cut away at the skin around the bullet to make a slightly bigger opening because if the bullet rubbing against the skin when he pulls it out, it would hurt Levi a lot and it would probably cause infection. So with the scissors, he cut around the bullet. He sliced away about 3 millimeters of skin away from the bullet.

He watched Levi's toes curl and he shifted a little to get more comfortable.

"Try not to move so much," Eren said. With the tweezers, he got a grip on the protruding end of the bullet and slowly tried to pull it out. He slipped up a few times, the tweezers losing grasp on the object and only causing Levi more pain.

After a few tries, he finally got a firm, solid grasp on the bullet and pulled it out.

Eren's eyebrow furrowed as he pulled out the bullet out and grabbed a dry cloth any placed it inside the wound to stop the bleeding. Occasionly, he changed the part of the towel when one end was soaked.

"You're doing really good so far Levi," he said softly as he dug through a bag filled with medical supplies. He pulled out a gauze, some antibiotics and some medicine to dress the wound. "Just a little bit longer, I'm almost done."

He cleaned it with alchol one last time and spread some medicine over it. The bleeding stoped, thankfully and he was able to place padding over the wound to soak up the remainder of the drainage and blood. Then he took the gauze and wrapped it around his leg tightly.

"There, you should be fine now. You can sit up."

Levi sat up while Eren removed his gloves and got up to throw them away. Levi looked at his leg, staring at the bangaging. He was surprised, he had to admit. He never knew Eren knew how to do that. He had no idea Eren was experienced in the medical field. It never seemed like something he would dabble in.

The teen walked back in with a glass of orange juice. "Here, drink this. I noticed you seem out of it and you should get your energy back up."

"Thanks..." He took the glass from Eren's hand and took a few sips. He placed the glass down and said, "I didn't know you knew how to remove a bullet. It seems out of character for you. But I will admit I am quite surprised."

"My dad was a doctor," Eren said dully, taking a seat on the couch and putting back away the supplies. "He was pretty popular back in Shiganshina. He got paid pretty well too. I always used to tag along on his medical visits and learn a few new things. There were a lot of gangs and shootings back in Shinganshina and many people couldn't afford the hospital or high end medical attention. That's where my father and I came in."

"You should become a doctor, from what you did you're pretty good at it."

Eren shrugged and zipped up. "Its not my thing."

Levi didn't respond, instead he ran his hand over the gauze. "... I'm gonna go take a shower... I have a headache. Try not to move so much on that leg for now."

"Can I come with you?" Levi asked, a small smirk forming.

"No." He snapped lightly. He took a small inhale of breath. "I need some time to myself."

**~•~**

While Eren showered, Levi tried his best not to doze off into slumber.

But his eyelids felt like a surfer trying to fight the gigantic ocean currents during a hurricane. And within minuets he fell asleep. A deep sleep at that.

He wasn't one who usually had dreams at night. If he was lucky, every few months or so, he would have ominous, dynamic, rather mysterious dreams that felt real. He always felt like it was his past life or something that happened in the past. It was either he dreamed of that dark, distorted universe or just a straight black void.

But never has he ever dreamed something so bright; vivid even. The dream was irenic, eloquent, very striking. Levi was never one to dream so lucidly but just for this one time he was willing to make an acception.

When he woke up, he felt like he was asleep for only a few minuets. Turns out he was asleep for nine hours. He felt more at peace than usual. His guard has been let down completely. He sat up a little bit only to see Eren hunched over with his hands on his face.

He stared at him for moment before he sat up slowly, he scooted closer to Eren. "How long have you been crying?"

"... A few hours..."

Levi pulled Eren to him, hauling the teen onto him as he laid back down. He propped his head on the arm of the couch and brushed Eren's hair behind his hair.

"I knew you were gonna cry. I wanted to shower with you to comfort you."

"I wanted to be alone." Levi brushed Eren's locks back and kissed his forehead.

"I'm not surprised to wake up to you like this."

"... Why is that?"

"I had a dream about your mom." The words came as a shock to Eren. He sat up quickly, cautious of Levi's leg. Not once in the past few weeks has Eren dreamt about Carla. He wanted too.

He was desperate to see her anyway he possibly could. So why Levi? How come Levi got to see her when Eren wanted to?

"What happened? Did she say anything? Tell me everything, I wanna know everything that you saw."

"... Well for one, I never had a dream as bright and intense like this one. Everything was very resplendent and lurid. I got to see Carla... Like I said before and she was happy. I'm not sure how dreams work and I've had some pretty fucked up dreams."

"Did... Did she anything? About me?"

"Mhm," he nodded his head slowly. "She said she's proud of you. She said she's happy and she misses you but she's watching over you."

"Is that it?"

"N-no... There's some place I want to take you."

"But you don't have your car and the buses stopped running at five thirty... Which was about forty minuets ago... Are we gonna walk there or-"

"No. Its a lengthy distance. And who the hell says I only have one car, shitface?"

"What do you mean by that? Don't you only have the musta-" Levi began to get up with an irritated groan and a roll of his eyes. Eren only sat back, watching him walking away. He was confused.

"Are you waiting for an invite to a fucking tea party? Get your ass up and follow me."

Eren was quick on his feet and following closely behind Levi. They were led to the back of the home Eren didn't know that existed or to the part Eren never bothered to look for. Connected to the living room was a hallway that lead down to two rooms: The laundry room which was most likely Levi's favorite part of his home and the garage.

Levi turned the latch and opened the door. Eren, from the view of before you enter the garage, it looked like there was one car. But once he entered, his jaw nearly dropped. Who the hell needs this many cars?! First of all, his garage was gigantic, about half the size of Levi's already huge ass home. And don't even let Eren get started on the cars. If Eren miscounted, then there were a total of four cars not including Levi's mustang.

"Wha... What the hell is all this?!"

"The rest of my cars, what the fuck does it look like?"

"I know what it is... I mean... How did you-"

"I stole them," Levi said sarcastically, leaning against the door with his arms crossed. "From celebrities along the coast. They still haven't caught me."

"Yeah, maybe it's cause you were too short to be seen..." Eren mumbled, running his hand along the hood of a black car. It was smooth to the touch. He was afraid to leave even a speak of dirt on any of the cars cause like hell he had money to pay for anything in this room.

He could barely pay for himself.

"What was that, I didn't hear you. Care to speak louder, you're not talking to a mouse." Levi urged, his voice ruff.

"Are you sure about that?" Eren tried, his voice laced with humor.

"Shut up," Levi pushed himself off the wall and walked over to a rack that held keys. "Since your mouth is so confident, how about you chose which car we take?"

"What? Really?!" He speaker excitedly, a big grin on his face.

"Look at that. One moment your a cheeky, arrogant shit, the next your ears are red and you sound like a woman."

"I'm not a woman... And... I want um... Which one goes the fastest?"

"My dick." Levi said a little too monotone and overall too seriously.

"What the hell, no. And you call me cocky and arrogant."

"Alright then, let's take this one," He completely ignored Eren's last remark and walked towards a dark gray car.

Levi opened the door and got inside. Eren took his time working around the black car which from a quick glimpse at the tag was a Bently. He looked at the car Levi decided to take before he got inside. The car started up.

"You don't need keys?!"

"Does this look like I need keys?"

Inside smelled so clean and brand new. The smell of fresh leather graced his senses and it smelled like nobody had ever been inside or ever used this car. As a matter of fact, none of the cars looked like they were ever used. It was either _very _well kept or they had very high and unaffordable maintenance.

Levi sat for a moment, allowing his hands to grip the wheel before he clicked a button that was connected to his radio and the garage door opened. When it opened fully, he put the car in reverse, closed the garage again and they pulled out into the main street slowly. It was obvious to Eren Levi's never drove this car before. He was so used to the mustang's interior, he wanted to take this car slow first before he picked up.

Levi continued to look out the corner of his eye trying to wonder why Eren was sitting like he was in a box. He then realized, Eren was a freaking giant. A towering five foot seven being compressed into a car which height was no more than about four foot three and a half at most. It was a slightly tight fit for Levi too. But when he bought the car, he was a little shorter.

"You said you wanted a car that goes fast," Levi said.

"You're not proving it's speed when you're driving so slow. Look, that snail over there is gonna make it past the light before we do!"

"You're always finding something to complain about," Levi's hand slid over something and the windows began to roll down and within a few seconds. The top of the convertible began to come down too. And once Levi heard it snapped, he pushed down on the gas pedal and they were off.

Eren was happy he had on his seat belt. He was leaning forward before Levi actually started to drive to pass the imaginary snail. He could finally straighten out and sit up properly. How long has it been since he was not out the house? He had no idea but hell it felt good.

He felt alive, energetic... Happy even. The wind blew through his hair and he couldn't help but smile. He sat on his knees leaning out the car with his elbows propped on the door.

"Do you not know how to sit like human being in car? I might as put a dog leash on you."

"We're going so fast though!" Eren cried. His smile widening. "The bus can't do this! I like this car better than your mustang!... No offense..."

"I'm not offended. Takes a shitload more to bring me down."

"Did you know the buses roof can't go down? And, and the seats aren't leather and- look at the radio!" He sat down and leaned towards the radio, his hands roaming over every button on the system. "You have FM radio? I think the bus only has AM..."

"There's also satellite radio,"

"Even better! Can I listen to something?!"

"Knock yourself out, kid."

"I'm not a kid,"

"With the way you're acting, I beg to differ."

"Look Levi! You have a map! We can see where we are and where we're going!"

Levi's eyes narrowed in a way that said, "Isn't it fucking obvious?" However his words cane out a little more softer. "Yeah, I know. That's the point of a map."

"Its cool! The bus doesn't have-"

"I know my cars are better than the bus. That's why I drive you around."

"Haha, just you wait! When I get my license, I'll get my own car and drive myself around. And I'll get a car even better than yours!"

"Ohhh, don't piss yourself..." Levi said slyly, the car coming to a halfway stop before Levi turned and once his car straightened out, his car immediately picked up speed and in the blink of an eye, they were halfway down the street and managed to make it across the yellow light in a split second.

"That was so cool! Levi, do it again! Haha, go faster!"

"I'm already going about six miles over the speed limit."

"Pfft, old man. Don't bust a lung while you're living to the extreme. Haha, six over the speed limit, you're making me laugh. My cat's lived more dangerously!"

Levi smirked and laughed a little. His hands gripped the wheel a little tighter. Within seconds, the engine was roaring and Eren was smiling like a clown. His hair was blowing rapidly and his cheeks danced with the wind.

"Is this fast enough for you?

"... Yeah..."

"I hope you pisded yourself."

"Kinda did..."

"Are you serious?! You're cleaning that shit up, if you messed up the seat-"

"Calm down, don't kill yourself."

"Did you seriously piss yourself though?"

"A little..."

"Disgusting brat." He muttered.

"Hey, we're going towards Rose..." Eren said, looking around somewhat confused .

"Yeah, you noticed this now? Not the sharpest pencil, are you?"

"I haven't heard that one."

"Keep it in mind then."

"Why are we going to Rose?"

"Who said we're going to Rose?"

"Then where are we-"

"Just sit back and enjoy the ride for a while. Just don't break anything."

**~•~**

Levi took a detour which ended up adding an extra twenty minuets to the ride but if he went the usual way, they would have to drive past the remains of the shop. And cutting off a few extra minuets and miles was not worth seeing Eren in pain again.

Eren was smiling, Eren was laughing, Eren was making jokes, Eren was being Eren.

He got to have time away from stress and pain. This was the next step to him healing emotionally.

"Hey, we're not staying in Rose? I thought we were-"

"We're going into Shinganshina, alright? I'm not spoiling anymore for you. Sit back and wait. You act just like a child."

Eren raised a brow and fell silent for a moment. He then smiled a little and cooed. "But daddy-"

The car went silent. Dead silent. It took a few moments for those words to process in Levi's head. "... Excuse me?"

"You heard me. I called you daddy. You're always calling me spoiled, and a brat and a child. So what does that make you? I'm the spoiled child or brat in some cases, so you're now my daddy."

"... Are you always this cheeky?"

"I don't know, you tell me... Daddy~" Okay, now this kid's pushing his luck and Levi's buttons.

"Is this supposed to be some sexual hint or innuendo I'm supposed to figure out? Are you horny or something cause that's all I'm picking up."

"What, no!"

"I'm picking up some sexual tension. You need to calm your little boy hormones."

"Its nothing sexual, you pervert. You're my daddy and I'm your spoiled brat."

"Jesus, Eren... You make it sound like a bad porno..."

"What? Why can't I call you daddy? You call me brat and other names... So why can't I have a pet name for you?"

"Its not about having a pet name. Its about the past."

"What about it?"

"You don't want to know anything from my past. Its been said, it's been done, nothing to do about it now except forget about it."

"Come on, please? I promise I'll stop calling you daddy... Only if you give me a reason not to though." Levi knew that pose. The one where Eren would shift around to face him and bring his knees up to his chest. Then he would patiently wait for not an explanation, but a story.

He sighed heavily, easing his foot on the brakes to slow down the car a little to a reasonable speed.

"I don't like the term daddy. When we first met, I told you why I ran away from my father, do you remember?"

"N-no... Not that much... Sorry..."

"Don't fret about it. After my mom died, I started getting abused physically by my father and I ran away after a few years of abuse. He was a strong, happy man while my mother was alive. After her funeral, he started getting angerier and more aggressive. And his anger was taken out on me. I used to look up to him, I admired him."

"So why can't I call you daddy?"

"Because that's what I used to call my dad, and I had a lot of high expectations of him. After he let me down, I didn't want kids. Simply because they were going to have high expectations of me too and I don't want to let them down like my father did to me."

"Sooooo... You think if I call you daddy, I'm holding you to certain expectations?"

Levi shrugged. "I don't know. I just don't like the word."

"Do you think you're gonna let me down?"

Again, he shrugged and mumbled a quiet, "I don't know..."

Eren stared at Levi, he opened his mouths to say something but nothing came out. He let his words form in his head before he spoke slowly. "I'm still going to call you daddy. And when I call you daddy, I am going to hold to expectations and I want you to own up to them. Be the man your father should've been. Be a father to me since my dad let me down too. Okay?"

"..."

"How does that sound?" Eren asked, his words coming on strong. He wanted an answer. A simple yes or a no.

"I... Alright. Call me daddy then. But only when it's nessessary. Don't make that my new name and don't run it into the fucking ground and into Hell. This is a privilege that I don't give to many people so don't abuse it."

"Really?!"

"Don't make me repeat myself."

"Oh, okay!" He didn't have to look at Eren to know he was smiling.

"Know," Levi began. "What are your expectations for me?"

"My... My expectations?"

"Mhm, nothing too unreasonable. And don't let your penis think for you."

"I'm not... Okay? Um... How about," he drew out. "You can't yell at me a lot. Sometimes I feel really bad when you tell at me harshly. And you have to try to be nicer to me,"

"I'm not nice." Levi said blankly.

"I-I know... But I mean, try to be a little nicer... And please hear me out when we argue. Sometimes, I can't get a word out when we fight. And... Maybe... For the last one... Please be there when I need you. Don't leave my side because I don't think I can handle that... I'm not asking for money, I'm not asking for materialist things, all I ask is for your attention and affection."

Levi smiled a little, nodding his head while he was at it. "I understand. You got yourself a deal, brat."

**~•~**

The sun finally went down and night had already placed it's blanket over the city. They finally pulled into their destination and Eren was quick out the car. However, his feet came to a skidded stop. Eren's heart dropped to the pit of his stomach and he froze. He backed up, looking utterly terrified as he did. He bumped into Levi and nearly tripped.

"Wh-why are we here? Why did you bring me here?!"

"Calm down, Eren. I bought you here because when I was asleep, I dreamed we were here. How long has it been since you've been here?"

"Take me home!"

"Come on,"

"No, Levi! Stop, I don't wanna go! Please, stop it, Levi!" Eren cried.

"Oi! Are you crying, brat?!" Eren only responded with quiet whimpers and soft sniffles.

Levi managed to drag him halfway down the shore before he sat down and pulled Eren down next to him. It took a few minuets for Levi go calm Eren down. He managed to do that by pulling him between his legs and placing his head to his chest and wrapping his arms around him.

"I don't like it here." Eren said bluntly.

"How about this, take a moment to look around and see what interests you."

"Nothing interest's me." He said quickly. "Before you answer, look around."

Eren groaned and looked around. He didn't find anything that caught his eye except the frightening ocean waves despite the fact at they were small and barely crashed on shore.

He scanned and looked around, trying to look for something that would catch his eye. And something certinally did.

"Levi, I want that shell."

"What shell?"

"Over there." He pointed towards the ocean and sure enough down by where the waves were crashing, there were a few shells varying in sizes, shapes and colors. Levi raised a brow and stood up.

"Come on, "

"Who, me?! I'm not going anywhere near that evil thing!"

"Oh please, the ocean's not going to hurt you."

"How do you know?!" Eren called.

Levi smirked little, pulling Eren up and draping his arms around his neck, holding him in a light headlock. "Because I'm here, shitface. And while I'm here you're not getting hurt. I'll make sure of your safety."

"I know but I don't like the-"

"You want the shells, right?"

"Yes. My mom really likes shells so I want to get those." Levi's hands unlocked from Eren's neck and slithered to his side and found purchase on Eren's hand.

He then pulled him forward and began walking. Eren was freaking out. He was acting as if he was a little girl who had just seen a gigantic tarantula. Tears were starting to roll down his cheeks and he started breathing rapidly. God, this brat was going to give himself a heart attack before he sees the light of his twentieth birthday.

"Levi, don't let me die! Please. Don't go near the-" Before he could get another word out, something cold washed upon his feet. Immediately, upon contact, he shrieked and yanked his hand from Levi, and within seconds, Eren fell back and into the water.

Eren's heart stopped for a split second and if took him a while to process what happened. "Its cold..." He mumbled. "Just like how I remember it..."

"Are you ok-" when the waves hit Levi's legs, he felt the world underneath him shattered and before he knew it, he was carried halfway with the wave.

He blinked and sat up quickly, his body shivering due to being exposed to the cold.

"Wha-" he breathed out, his words trembling. "Why the fuck did you do that?"

"You pushed me into the water... So I did it back."

"You pushed your fucking self you brat!"

"Please don't yell at me, daddy..." He cooed coyly. He looked down like he was an innocent bystander but on the inside he wanted to laugh.

"Don't fucking daddy me, I will-!"

"Daddy, please don't yell at me... You're making me feel bad..." The sentence caught Levi off guard entirely. His eyebrows let up, erasing some of the harsh shadowing on his face. Soon, he sighed and stood up slowly, his body heavy from the wet winter clothing. He walked over to Eren and extended his hand to pull him up.

Once Eren was up on his feet, Levi hugged him and whispered, "Don't think you'll get off the hook that easy, shitface."

When the waves came crashing back, he dived into the water, pulling Eren down with him. He held Eren tightly, making sure not to lose him to the current. The water was dark but he could tell Eren was frightened.

He and Eren both broke the surface. Eren was looking around frantically and his legs were kicking back and forth trying to find the ocean floor.

"...L-Le...vi..." He breathed out, his voice hitching in his throat. Levi felt Eren clawing at the back of his shirt, trying to keep a firm grip on him. "Calm down Eren, I got you."

"Why d-did you do that?!"

Levi shrugged nonchalantly, looking around at the dark ocean. "I wanted to get you wet too, and to show you the ocean isn't really a bad thing. I want you to face your fear a little."

"... That's what she said..." Eren mumbled, a small giggle forming.

"Excuse me?"

"You wanted to get me wet too. Does this mean I got you wet first?" He teased, his hands finally getting a good grip. This however, did not stop Eren from kicking his feet like a madman.

"I will not hesitate to let you go and let you defend on your own for that stupid and immature remark."

"You wouldn't let me drown, daddy."

"Wanna bet?"

"No." He said quickly.

"Is the water still so bad?" Levi asked. "We're a few feet away from the shore."

"I still don't like it..." He admitted.

"Eren, let me ask something. What are you studying in college again?"

"Marine Biology."

"Okay, now define your career choice to me in your own words."

"Hm... Well... Marine Biology is the study of life in the oceans and other saltwater environments such as estuaries and wetlands." He explained slowly.

"Ok, now, think about it. The study of life _in the oceans and other saltwater environments_," Levi stressed. "You're going to be working with the _ocean_ and you're terrified of it. Did you think about that when you signed up for the course?"

"I thought about it. I was going to do partner work with my friend Armin,"

"Isn't Armin the one with the shitty freckles?"

"N-no! That's Marco and he's in the hospital you bat! Don't talk about him like that!"

"Alright, alright, sorry, I guess... Continue."

"I was going to do partner work with Armin. I would stay back on the shore while Armin would go out into the sea. That's how my job would work."

"Ok, but what if you and Armin can't work together on certain jobs or school assignments? What if its a solo job? What if Armin gets sick, huh? There are endless possibilities on what could go wrong."

"Well then... I don't know... I'm make up some type of excuse."

"That's taking the easy way out, brat. And you're boss or professor won't take an excuse. You'll either get fired or a failing grade."

"..."

"I don't want to be so hard on you, but I'm opening your mind up to reality. Cause let me tell you something, life is a bitch."

"I know..."

"Do you know how to swim?" Levi asked out of nowhere. His eyes focused on Eren.

"No, not really." He admitted.

Levi let Eren go and wiggled out of Eren's grasp. On instinct, he starred to splash around until Levi grabbed his hands and began to guide him through the water.

"Stop kicking your feet so much! You're making a mess!"

"A mess how?! We're surrounded by water!" The teen exclaimed, his hands holding onto Levi's hand tighter.

They went on like this until Eren's excessive kicking calmed down. "Do you think you know how to do this now?"

"No!"

"I'm letting go."

"Levi- ah!" His one source of surviving let down and swam back a little to give Eren space to freely maneuver on his own. Eren wailed around and Levi didn't help him until his head was under water and bubbles floated to the surface. But once they were at the top and he made sure Eren was alright, he let him go again. This time only giving him advice to keep himself afloat.

"Eren, first of all, calm down and stop splashing around, that's why you're drowning." Eren took in a large inhale of breath to calm himself and reached out for Levi who took his hand.

"See, I'm not gonna let your drown. Once your head goes below the surface, I'll come to help you. Now that you've calmed down, use both your arms and legs. Make sure to stay upright and keep your breathing normal. I'm gonna let you go now,"

Eren closed his eyes for a second and opened them when he felt Levi's hands holding his waist lightly.

"Move your arms horizontally."

Eren did as told, tilting his head up as he started to sink below. "Oi," Levi said. "Just because you're using your arms doesn't mean you can stop using your feet."

"Okay..."

Once Eren started to float on his own and Levi saw he was starting to get it, he told him he was going to let him go one last time before he Eren threaded the water. He managed to stay above for a few moments. At first Eren was confused when he was doing it on his own but then it twisted into a smile.

"Levi..."

Levi smirked lightly. It wasn't really a smirk. It leaned more into a smile. "Is the ocean still bad?"

"Yes," he answered. "Just because I can kinda do this, it doesn't change my feelings on the ocean..."

"That's fine." Levi shrugged. "Hey, Levi?"

"What?"

Water splashed in his face followed by laughter. "So you think since you know how to swim you're gonna get cocky?" Levi threw water on Eren.

"I'm not cocky," he swam closer to Levi, it was slow but once he got there he returned the same gesutre.

"If you're not cocky, quit acting like a brat."

Eren smiled and pushed Levi back into the water, pinning him down and smiling quickly pinning his lips onto Levi's and running his hands over Levi's jawline. They came up for air after about forty five seconds of intimacy.

**~•~**

They sat on the beach, huddling next to each other trying to kindle any kind of warmth to beat out the cold air. They shivered next to each other. Going into the water was such a stupid idea but they had one hell of a good time.

Levi hasn't been to the beach in years. The last time he was near the ocean, a few months later Isabel and Farlan were gone. So it felt good to be here with somebody again. He was actually having fun with Eren. Even though now he was struggling to keep his ass from freezing off but he felt good.

He didn't want to inside the car because there was no way in hell he was going to mess up his leather seats.

Eren was silent for the most part much to Levi's surprise. He could feel Eren shivering and his body occasionally jerked due to the cold. But he seemed preoccupied by the many shells in his hand which he found interesting earlier. When they came out the water, Eren and Levi- more Eren than Levi- walked along the beach collecting many different seashells. This was one of the elements that made their relationship continue to function and clash perfectly with each other.

Levi was the serious one while Eren's child-like behavior clashed with Levi's making the model a muchsofter, easy going person while it molded Eren into a mature adult.

It was only a few minuets before what was on Eren's mind murmured on his lips. "What are we gonna do for my mom's funeral?"

Completely unexpected, but not a strange question.

Levi had to think about that for a second. "It's not up to me. Now is it?"

"No. I-I mean, I don't know... I'll need the help though."

"I'll be right here to help you. Did your mother leave a will?"

"Yes. This morning, while I was on my way to bail you out, I got a call from somebody who called me in for nine fifteen appointment to sort out my mother's will... And I'm not sure what I'm gonna get... And I need to plan out her funeral after I get her inheritance. That's why I'm so quite."

It's not that easy hearing someone say that. "Well.. Where was Carla's favorite place to go?"

"She really liked quiet places. Places that are really pretty and serene. I want to release her ashes at sunset. That's her favorite time of day."

"Is that why you swoon over sunsets?"

Eren shrugged. "I have my reasons. You're just not sentimental, so you wouldn't understand."

The model rolled his eyes and curled his toes as wind blew against him. He held Eren tighter trying to gather more warmth. "I thought we were gonna bury her?"

"Hm? Oh, I thought about it... But then I thought my mother's always been kinda restricted and held back so I asked the doctors to reincarnate her so I could release her ashes to let her go free."

Levi nodded softly. "You know, you've been through a lot. I'm sorry this happened."

"Don't worry about it..." Eren mumbled. "I want everyone to wear white though,"

"Eh? How come?"

"Because, it means renewal and rebirth... I looked it up and I'd rather everybody wear white. And maybe one thing that's black."

"But isn't white for weddings?"

Eren nodded. "Mhm. But on my wedding day, I'm going to splash in red. So it'll be red, white, and ... Black."

"..." Levi's eyebrow narrowed a little. "Explain those colors to me."

"Well, red means warmth, love, boldness, excitement, strength, energy, determination, desire, passion, courage and socialism. While black means elegance, sophistication, formality, power, strength, illegality, morbidity, and of course death. So I just thought about throwing in a few colors. It'll also give it something untraditional and a little different."

"Do you not want a traditional wedding?"

"No, not really, sorry. I want something that I'll remember and untraditional. I hate following the crowd. But I don't want something too over the top. Simple yet memorable."

"I see..."

"Levi, can we go home now? I have a long day tomorrow..." Levi nodded and stood up. He then sneezed. "... We should be dry enough now. Plus I have to change the bandaging on my wound."

"Oh yeah! I forgot about that! We should've never went inside the water. We have to shower and I have to disinfect it again and apply ointment..."

"I think we should be more concerned about you,"

"Why?"

Levi ran his thumb under Eren's eye and said, "Your eyes are red and dark. And it looks a little swollen."

"It's just irritated, I told you the ocean's evil."

Levi snickered and laughed a little, he wrapped his arm around Eren's waist and tugged him close.

"Tch, whatever brat."

* * *

A.N: Thank you everybody for all the reviews, follows and favorites as always. This chapter was a little harder to write because I had a writers block and I had some help writing this from a close friend of mine (she mostly wrote the bullet removal part) so thank you to her. I'll review next chapter, I'm so sorry I can't do it in this one. I had to play soccer in the rain so I'm literally soaked right now xD but thanks again for all the positive support from everybody. Till next time?


	26. Chapter Twenty Five: Lemon Honey Tea

"Achoo!"

Levi's sneeze echoed throughout his home. Eren laughed to himself as he poured a pot of hot soup into a bowl along side his signature lemon honey tea.

He opened the refrigerator door and took out a small container of egg salad, some lettuce went into the cabinent to find bread. He quickly whipped up two sandwiches for Levi and put the container into the sink. He then placed the lettuce back in the fridge and put the bread back where it belonged.

Quickly, he cut the sandwiches in half and put it on the tray next to Levi's bowl of soup.

He picked up the tray and walked up the stairs with caution. He turned left then walked down the hallway and to the master bedroom. He opened the door to see Levi dozing off to sleep.

"Hey shorty, how ya doin'?" Eren chimed, sounding a little too happy for Levi at this moment. He didn't open his eyes but he said, "Just fine, shitstain. How was your day, you intolerable brat?"

Eren snicked. "Temper, Levi, temper. Geez, you're a lot more snappy when you're sick."

"I hate being sick." He snapped lightly.

"Haha, I know," Eren walked around the bed. "Sit up, I made you some lunch."

"I'm tired."

"You can sleep after you eat." There was no way the brat was going to leave him alone and quit pestering him so he could get an ounce of sleep. So he sat up slowly and pushed his back against the bed. Eren rested the tray on Levi's lap and Levi raised a brow.

"Is all this food just for me?"

"Yes, actually. I'm going to be out for a while so I made you this. You're gonna fall asleep soon so I wanted to make sure you ate something."

"Isn't it still breakfast?"

"Yeah, so? I won't be home until sometime around lunch anyway. So eat up, I have to be at the bus stop in fifteen."

"Let me drive you."

"No, Levi! I don't want you make your cold any worse. It's freezing outside, so I'd much rather you stay here and rest."

"I don't want you to go by yourself." Levi was already trying to slide out of bed. But Eren placed his hands on his shoulders pushing him back down. "No. Levi. Stay here and try to get as much rest as you can. I want to do this alone anyway, please respect my decision."

"Hm, then I want you home before nighttime. And stay safe. I don't want to get a call from some asshole who kidnapped you asking for big bucks. That'll be a pain."

"I don't get kidnapped." He mumbled. "And I won't get into any trouble."

Levi picked up two halves of the sandwiches and handed them to Eren."You should eat something too. Going to sort out the will shouldn't be done on an empty stomach. And I know you'll let your stomach bother you the entire time."

Eren shrugged and took one. "Keep it." He stood up and took a bite as he walked towards the bathroom. Levi looked down at his meal and picked up a spoon, stiring his soup before eating a hot spoonful.

He cursed as the hot substance hit his tongue but he sallowed it down reluctantly.

"Haha, don't hurt yourself. I know how eager you are to swallow."

"... Was that supposed to be a joke?" Eren walked out the bathroom and smirked softly before giggling. "I have to go."

"Are those my jeans?... And my shirt... And jacket... Why are you wearing my clothes?" His question came out almost demanding.

"Oh these?" He said. "My clothes are dirty and I don't really have that much clothes to wear anymore. After the fire, I only have like... Three shirts, two pants and the big jacket you gave me. I also have my mother's homemade sweater which I'm wearing."

"Why didn't you tell me sooner?!"

"I didn't want you to spend anymore money on me. Now I have to go, okay? I don't wanna be late and I want to get back home as soon as possible. I don't think it's right you have to stay here all day."

"I'm not alone, I have Isabel," Eren looked at the foot of the bed to see a bundle of black fur curled up in a ball and sleeping soundly; her tail was sprawled out across the floor. The teen looked at Levi and sighed.

"Fine, okay. Just don't get too attached-"

"Don't tell me you're jealous of the cat."

"Maybe, a little. She's problematic."

"Ha, you're still intimidated by her! Hurry up and get going before she wakes up, I'd hate to see you piss yourself!"

**~•~**

Levi sneezed for what felt like the millionth time in just a few minuets. How long has Eren been gone? How many times has Levi texted him? He didn't know anymore.

So now, he was sitting on his bed grumpy and irritated watching a ridiculous gameshow while Isabel sat on his lap, purring against his chest.

"This is fucking stupid..." He mumbled, rubbing his temples. "Its behind the second fucking door! If you go for the first door-... Of course you chose that door. You wanna know why? Cause you're a fucking idiot!"

Isabel looked up and blinked. She tilted her head slightly and meowed loudly, making Levi jump.

"... Yeah, yeah, okay... I'll change it. You're as spoiled as Eren." He smiled lightly when she hissed at him.

"You can't do anything." He teased, rubbing underneath her chin before grabbing the remote and flipping through channels. One boring thing to another, one TV program to the next. It was a short time until he heard one thing that truly interested him and captured his attention.

And that was the name "Eren" coming over the TV. He turned up the TV a little more and groaned when he finally realized who's talk show it was.

"Look at Eren boy! Haha, the poor boy looked like a deer in headlights! Oh, it's almost sad watching him freeze up on stage like that, am I right?" The audience was a mixture of laughter and applause showing they agreed with the obnoxious woman.

"I can't believe they're still talking about Celeb Feast..." The man mumbled.

"Oho, but it seems like good ol' Levi hasn't changed a bit hasn't he? Same old look, same terrible attitude, he may be eye candy to many of you, certainly not me in my opinion, but this man isn't typical husband !material. Dating material at that. One look at him and you'll want to throw him in the trash!" The audience laughed before she continued.

"I honestly don't see what Eren boy sees in him. I'm not joking. Eren is beautiful while Levi... Isn't.. You know, I'm not sure why America, or teen girls in this case, calls them "America's greatest couple," or "Star crossed Lovers," but I can confirm they are neither of those things. However, if Eren was to get himself a pretty wife, then they would be America's greatest couple. That's just how I feel on the topic... And since we're on the topic of the ongoing trend #Ereri, may I ask where is the couple now?"

"Oh god, when will this woman get fired for being complete scum?" The model asked bitterly. Isabel purred softly and snuggled up against his side. The cat then made a disgusting look towards the TV.

"They've been on hiatus since Celeb Feast ended. We haven't heard anything about them even through they're still a pretty popular tag. And the modeling world is fairly small."

"Maybe its cause we're tired of dealing with celebrity bullshit?" Levi tried with a sarcastic look. Without Eren he felt like he was slowly losing his sanity. He was so used to being around him and constantly releasing steam around him, that the only way he could release steam now was bitching to his TV set and like hell that was any fun.

"However, I still think they're not a good match and they're Celeb Feast performance could've been better. Especially that first performan-" the TV cut off followed by a quick profanity echoing through the empty home. Levi smiled on the inside as he looked for his phone. He picked it up quickly. It wasn't Eren to his dismay. But it made him smile a little bit bigger when he realized who it was.

"Mikasa?"

"Hello, Levi," she greeted softly. "How is everything?"

"it's good to hear your voice again. I'm sorry I haven't been visiting you so much lately, I've been with Eren..."

"Don't worry, as long as Eren's okay."

"Everything is fine over here, how about you? How's you and freckles?"

"You make it sound like we're a married couple," she laughed. "He's alright. We've been moved out of the ICU and to the third floor. We're going to be discharged today at twelve, that's why I called." She said.

"Ah," he drew out, his mind piecing words together like a puzzle. "Eren left about a hour and a half ago to sort out his mother's will. I have a cold and I haven't showered for today yet so I'll be at the hospital in about an hour or so."

"Oh, I see..."

"Have you eaten anything yet?"

"No. I was planning on grabbing lunch once I check out... I actually think Jean is bringing over some food."

"Why don't you ask him to drop you home?"

"... I don't want him to know where I live. He's been trying to follow me home a while back before Marco and I were admitted."

"Haha, got a stalker on your hands. If he messes with you, just tell me."

"Don't worry, I will. But I can defend myself, you know that," She sounded like she was smiling a little bit. "Levi, I really need to talk to you and Eren... But if Eren's busy at the moment then please pass the message on to him."

"What is this about? The café?"

"... Yes. Marco and I actually know what happened and we're willing to explain." She said.

"Alright, I understand. Like I said before, I'm getting up right now to shower to come and get you."

"Okay, I'll see you then."

**~•~**

When Levi got over to the hospital and checked in, it took him a few minuets to find Mikasa and Marco's room.

He knocked before entering and he was somewhat confused when not Mikasa answered the door or the freckled shit... But some teenager with an ash brown undercut and a long face. He opened the door with a loopaided smile as well.

First impressions, he looked like your typical highschool douchebag.

But when he opened his mouth you got your typical highschool idiot who knew all the right things to make a fool of himself.

And the very first thing he said was, "Mi-mikasa? I think your old man is here. Hey are you Mikasa's grandfather or maybe her father? Cause I'd like to ask for her hand in marriage."

"... You insufferable, shitty brat. Just who in the hell do you think you are? Clearly, I failed to get the memo."

"Jean Krischstein, sir! And you are...?"

"About to shove my foot up your ass, its a pleasure to me you." He said bitterly. "Now, if I'm not mistaken, which I am not, Mikasa Ackerman should be in this room, correct?"

"Yes..."

"Wait a second, Jean Krischstein you said?"

"Yes sir!"

"Stop calling me sir, shitface."

"Sorry... Ha-has Mikasa talked about me?!" Jean smiled widely, his confidence showing.

Levi nodded, his expression not changing. "Yes, she has,"

"Oh, well then. I ask for your hand in marriage- oh! I mean your daughter's hand in marriage."

"God, you're a fucktard,"

"Eh?"

"First, I am not her father or grandfather, I am her older brother Levi."

"Oh really? Ahh, welcome to the family bro!" Jean slammed his arm around Levi's neck and pulled him close.

Levi coughed and once Jean pushed him away, he said, "Why are you welcoming me into my own family? And I'm not your "bro." Plus all the things Mikasa has stated about you is true. You're obnoxious and annoying."

"O-oh... She's just playing hard to get. She's a babe like that."

"Please, don't call her that."

"Right, sorry."

"Look, I don't have time for this, I'm here to pick up Mikasa." Levi pushed past Jean and entered the room.

Mikasa was attentively listening to Marco as she pulled her hair back into a bun. She looked up as Marco's head swung around to see Levi in the room. "Are you ready to go?" The model asked.

Mikasa nodded. However, she didn't move.

"Levi, before you go, come sit down." Levi stood for a moment then walked over to sit next to his sister. She grabbed her purse off the nightstand and opened it. She moved a few things before she pulled out a small box and handed it to Levi.

"What is-"

"It's from Carla," Her words came out quick and she bit back her tears. "She wanted me to give this to Eren but since he's not here, I'll give this to you."

He took the box from Mikasa and stared at the plain white object with a gold ribbon wrapped on it. His hand ran over it and he looked up.

"You said you wanted to talk to me." Levi said simply. His eyes scanned Mikasa. She had bandaging over her arm and a bandaid across her cheek. She was also sporting a bruise on her collarbone which made Levi's stomach turn to no end.

He looked at Levi who was staring at the pair. His face turned red a little when Levi looked at him. Levi's eyes narrowed as Marco refused to make eye contact with him.

"Oi, freckles, what's with the red face? Did you do something?"

"W-what do you mean, sir?"

"Don't call me that." His voice said darkly.

"Yes si- Levi... Continue..."

"What I mean is... She's sporting a bruises and when I looked at you, your face was as red as a fucking tomato."

"Levi, what are you getting at?" Mikasa asked quickly.

"Did you touch her?"

"Levi!"

"N-no sir! I would never touch her like that! I-I mean I touch her... Bu-but not like that! I like to do her hair, she has really nice hair! I promise I'm not the sourse of that bruise... It was from the accident."

"... Tell me more," Levi unknitted his brows and watched as Marco stared at him slightly confused.

"Well... A few days after talked to Eren, we got robbed... As a matter of fact, we got robbed about an hour and a half after she got Eren's gift. She put it under the tree though... But when the café got robbed and the robber set the place ablaze, she told Mikasa to grab his gift and make sure to give it to him..."

"I see... Well, that still doesn't tell me how she got that nasty bruise."

"We tried to fight off the attacker. He just came waltzing into the cafe, and pulled a gun on us. Mikasa was at the register and defended herself. Except, she did get injured in the process. He laid his hands on a woman and I hope he's behind bars."

"... Sadly, he's not... Yet... But soon, he will be. Even if its the very last thing I do."

"Do you know she's exceptionally skilled in hand to hand combat? I was surprised to see how strong she is."

"That's my woman!" Jean exclaimed, happily walking back into the room.

"I'm not you woman..." Mikasa mumbled.

"Come on babe-"

"Touch her and I'll cut your hands off." Levi warned.

"Right, sorry..."

"Anyway freckles," Levi said slightly irritated. "I want a description of this creep, the more I know, the better."

"I can't give you an accurate description, I'm sorry. The man who came inside had on a black mask... And he black hair though... Kinda like yours actually now that I think about it. But... His hair looked more synthetic than natural."

"Yes, I'm aware of that. Somebody tried to frame me to get my ass thrown in prison."

Mikasa gasped and took a hold of Levi's chin and turned it towards her.

"Somebody tried to frame you?" She stressed.

"Yeah. Look Mikasa, don't stress yourself out about it."

"Who was it? Do you know who it was?!"

"No," Levi lied. "Just drop it." He took Mikasa's hand and snapped his head around to see Marco. "Can you tell me anything else?"

"The fire started before beforehand. It seemed like before he entered the café, he poured gasoline in the back and lit it and quickly it spread to the front. He seemed very... Rushed as well. Like he needed to hurry up and get the job done. And before we knew it, the cafe was up in flames and gunshots were fired and Mikasa tried to fight. Ms. Jaeger was upstairs when the fire started and when she managed to make it down stairs, she was shot and the smoke was coming in thick and quickly. Mikasa and I were already shot and the last bullet was meant to... Kill.. Ms. Jaeger. Mikasa and I tried to bring her outside with whatever strength we had left but she knew she wasn't gonna make it..." Marco took a breath.

"Instead, she insisted Mikasa and I get out and leave her be. Of course we still tried to persuade her otherwise but her decision was made and she wasn't going back on her choice. The smoke was getting very thick and Mikasa and I were having trouble breathing, so she told Mikasa to take Eren's present and get out immediately."

Levi stayed silent, he heard small sniffs from Mikasa and he stroked her hand.

"He also had a tattoo."

"A tattoo?" Levi questioned. "Do you remember what it looks like? Where was the tattoo?"

"I don't remember exactly what it looked like but it a black tattoo and it was on the back of his neck. It looked kinda like a snake to me but I'm not too sure."

"A snake? How cliché." The model said.

"That's all I can remember for now. I'm sorry."

"Don't be sorry, you were very useful and I like that."

"Thank you." Marco smiled. The room fell quiet for a while. Jean slipped next to Mikasa and Levi gave him such a look it would give him nightmares.

Soon, there was a knock at the door and to enter was Eren. First his head poked through the door like a turtle peaking out of its shell. He then entered the room with a small smile.

"Hey guys," he greeted he closed the door behind him. He walked up to Mikasa and gave her a hug. A suffocating hug actually. Mikasa was literally suffocating him.

"Mikasa! Pleas-"

"Come on, get off the poor kid. I have more respect for you Mikasa, I didn't know you were into brats." Levi joked.

"Haha! I'm with your bro on this one, baby!" Jean smiled.

"I'm not your baby," Mikasa deadpanned.

"And I'm certainly not your bro," Levi pulled Eren into a hug and kissed him quickly on the lips mumbling a quick, "I missed you, shithead," in his ear before pulling him next to him.

"How are you doing Marco?" Eren asked. The brunette smiled and said, "I'm done just fine Eren, much better actually. Thanks for asking."

"What about you, Mikasa?"

She nodded slowly. "Same. I'm getting a headache though."

"Probably from all that bullshit shitface was spitting over there," Levi said, motioning to Jean.

"Don't insult animals, Levi, it'll hurt his feelings." Eren added. "Oh shut the hell up Jaeger. Don't talk about animals when you are one."

"... Do you need a mirror?"

"No, but you directions to anger management classes."

"I don't need anger management Jean!"

"Stop shouting Eren!" Mikasa and Levi both scolded in unison. "We're in a public place, there's no need to shout." Mikasa said standing up. She through her purse over her shoulder and as she was about to leave, Jean stood up and blocked her way out.

"Wait! Wait, just hold on a sec. Before you go... I just wanted to give you this." He held out a long rectangular somewhat thin box with a confident smile. "I got this for you babe, Marry uh... Late Christmas.. I guess."

She took the box from him. Eren stood up and walked next to her to also look at the gift, both of their eyes exzaming the object.

"Wait, Jean didn't-" Marco tried.

"Not so fast, horseface. What's this?" He ripped off the name tag on the side of the box and held it up. "This was Marco's gift to Mikasa."

"Yeah, I also added in something special... So this was me too!"

Eren rolled his eyes and turned to Marco. "Come here Marco,"

Maroc blinked slightly confused before he got up and walked over to the three. Levi only sat back and watched the trio. "What did you get for Mikasa, Marco?" Eren asked.

"M-me? Well... I uh..." He swallowed the thick lump in his throat. His face began began to burn red as each word rolled off his tongue. "I remember you told me you have a gym in Downtown Sina so I thought you'd might like a new pair of work out clothes... I just bought some sweats, two shirts and a sweatshirt... That's about it..."

"What about you horse face?"

"I got her a watch which is in that box. I also got her a gym bag with weights in it but it's in my truck downstairs."

"Alright then, why the hell are we still here? I'm sick of this place so let's hurry up and go." Levi said standing.

**~•~**

When they finally got outside, they walked halfway through the parklot before they reached Jean's truck. Once they were there, he opened the back trunk.

"Hey, Jean, isn't this your dad's truck?"

"No!" He said quickly.

"I'm pretty sure it is... Didn't he have a black Dodge-"

"He gave it to me, so this baby is now mine. Well my second baby. You know, Mikasa's the fir-"

"Save it." Levi interrupted. "Give her- her gift so we can go."

Jean crawled onto the truck and dragged the bag as best as he could, he managed to make it halfway before he was out of breath. "A little help?"

Levi was about to get on and humiliate Jean not only with his strength but with words, however, Mikasa was quick on the back of the truck and hauled the bag up onto her shoulder with ease. "Thank you," she said. "I will drop these off first thing tomorrow morning at the gym."

"That's my girl! Always putting men to shame!"

"Jean, you're not a man. You're lucky to be called human sometimes." Eren said snidely. He smiled a little when Jean growled and stood up to get off the truck.

"So uh... Mikasa... Friday night, right?"

"No. Levi, where's your car?"

"I'm driving the corvette... My car... Well, let's just say its getting fixed?" Levi felt bad for lying to Mikasa but right now, he didn't want to worry her. And telling her his car got towed and he got arrested and he got shot within a 36 hour interval isn't exactly what she needed to hear. "The corvette is around front, you can't miss it."

He handed her they key and she walked off, leaving Eren, Jean, Marco and Levi behind.

The first thing Eren did was cling onto Levi. He turned him around and kissed him on the lips before throwing his arms around his neck.

"I'm sick, remember?"

"I don't care, I missed you," Eren cooed his lips ghosting Levi's ear. "I guess I can say the same brat. But its a pain now that you're back. My peace and quiet is gone now that you're here."

"Oh, you don't say?" Eren unlocked his arms from behind Levi and turned around. "I guess you don't need me then." He began to walk away, waving just to scare Levi a little.

"Uh, who said you could leave?" Levi caught his wrist and pulled him into a hug. "I never said to leave. Who the hell told you to walk away from me? I haven't seen you all day and you're trying to walk away. You should be ashamed of yourself."

"I was gone most of the day because I had to sort out the-"

"I know why you weren't home, idiot. And I never said I was mad at your because of it, I just said I missed you. Stop being stupid, even if it's just for a minute."

"Eren, you're getting a little too friendly with my future brother in law."

Eren gave Jean a dark look. A look that even surprised Levi a little. Hm... Maybe Levi is rubbing off on Eren... Maybe just a little?

"I'll have you know your " future brother in law" is my current boyfriend. So hell yeah I'm gonna get friendly with him. Whether you like it or not horse face. You're just mad cause you can never get this close with Mikasa- oh, speak of the devil." Out the corner of the teen's eye, he saw Mikasa pull up in Levi's car. She pit the top down, because like Eren, she was a giant compared to the car.

She put the car in park before she got out and raised a brow. "If you two are gonna bicker like children, just tell me so Levi and I can head home."

"Oh, no, we were just on our way." Eren said nonchalantly. His face twisting into a mischievous smirk as he walked around the car if he knew it at the back of his hand.

Jean's face was just too much. It was humorous actually. "Who's car is that and who did you steal it from so I can call the cops?"

"Mine, fuckface," Levi walked to the drivers side and got inside, his fingers tapping the wheel patiently as he waited for Eren to crawl into the back seat. "So if you call the cops you'll be making an Eben bigger ass of yourself. You're a good kid through, you're just not laying a finger on my sister."

"Hey, since we're family now, can I get a ride?" Jean asked.

"What about me?" Marco asked quickly, not wanting to be left behind.

"You, no. The freckled kid? Sure, maybe. At least I know he won't be trying to get on my sister like rabbits in heat."

"Please don't say that..." Marco scratched the back of his head as his cheeks flushed completely.

"We should be heading home, its getting dark and I'm ready to get some sleep." Mikasa mumbled.

"Where do you live?" Jean asked.

"In the neighborhood a few blocks away from your stalls. I'll see you around Jean. Goodnight Marco!" Eren called as the car pulled out of the hospital yard.

"Goodnight Mikasa!" Both boys shouted. And they watched as the corvette pulled out into the main street, the engine roars ripping through the air. Marco looked at Jean and smiled. "I think we should start heading home too, huh?"

"Do you think I can have a car like that too?"

"Mhm, sure! But I think I like your truck a little better." When Jean looked, Marco's smile made his day a little brighter.

**~•~**

After Levi dropped Mikasa home and made sure she made it safely inside and checked her surroundings, Levi and Eren headed home with almost little to no conversation.

But once they got home, they couldn't let each other go. Levi stumbled backwards on the couch as Eren collapsed on top of him. Their lips clashing together as their hands roamed over each other. As Levi's hands moved over Eren's legs, he remembered something...

His lips broke away as each word came out. "I need to give you something."

Eren groaned softly, however, when his eyes focused on Levi's, the model knew to continue. The man reached into his pocket and pulled out the same box Mikasa gave him back at the hospital. At first Eren froze.

But then he realized, if Levi really wanted to propose, he wouldn't let his and Eren's sexual desire or frustration come first.

Levi sat up a little, propping his back on the arm of the couch. "This is from Carla. She was going to give this to you on Christmas but she never got the chance to. But now she did."

Eren felt his emotion wanting to show. But he held onto his strong facade and refused to let it drop. At least for now. His hand ran over it and he inhaled deeply.

"Open it."

"A-are you sure? Should I wait maybe?"

"No. Open it and see what Carla left."

"..." Eren's fingers ran over the ribbon and pulled it, the string coming undone. He set the gold accessory on the table and opened the box reluctantly and slowly. But once he opened it, he felt his heart speed up and his words tangle in his throat.

In the box was a gold necklace with a key on the end. He took the key out the box and held it up, admiring it. He then noticed there was something inside the box where the key was supposed to go. He looked the key and then the key shaped hole and put the two together. He turned the key and heard a soft click.

And from there, his tears were already streaming down his face like a river. Inside the locked area were photos of Eren and his family and their happiest moments. Him smiling with his mother, his father still at their side. Their family as a whole. A complete puzzle with none of the pieces missing. Sadly, there weren't many pictures inside box but there were enough that could last Eren an entire lifetime. The thing that really hurt the mist was to see his mother's smile again. Her lively eyes that always lit up the room. She truly was a breathtaking woman. A mother figure Eren was grateful to have.

There was a note at the side of the box. Eren picked it up and read it with a soft voice.

"Merry Christmas, Eren! I'm so happy that I've spent another year with you. I'm very happy that you've fallen in love and you're smiling and happy again. I understand we've had our moments but let's never let that come between us. After all you are my only child and the best son a mother could ask for. I want you to live a good, prosperous life with your loved ones and significant others. And who knows, maybe you'll bring him some children of your own. What a handful that'll be, huh? But I know you can do it because you've always been a strong child. You were born like that and that's what makes you stand out. I can't wait for you to bring home some passionate, independent children! I can't wait to see you get married. I know who ever you fall in love with, you're making the right choice. And you seem pretty hooked on Levi. I wouldn't mind seeing you walk down the aisle to be wed to him. But he better not cross the line, I will put my foot down when I need to. How is Levi? I'm sorry for the way I behaved, I may have over reacted a little... How about we make up? A little bonding time? Just the three of us! Well... Five of us including the tea and cake. Does Levi like cake? He doesn't seem like somebody who's into sweet things... What am I saying? Everybody likes cake!... I'm sorry sweetie, I'm rambling on, aren't I? I guess I should wrap this up? Anyway, I hope you have a good Christmas and please stay safe. And tell Levi I said Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday. I love you. Yours Truly, Mom. PS. You're gift opens. Read the message I left."

Eren set the note in the box and moved the box to the table, quickly scanning the key for any mechanism that can open the key. Once he found it on the side, he pushed it in and watched the the top open.

Inside, there was a short message. There was also a picture of their family above it.

His eyes then moved to the message she had engraved in the gift.

_ Eren, thanks for being the one person I lived for. To love. To take care of. Something to wake up to every morning. The one thing I have to look forward to each day in my life. You're the one reason I always want to get out of bed. I know you're not a bad kid and I know you're going to be a mature, responsible adult. But it's all happening so fast! Look at you! You're almost twenty and fallen in love! You're growing up so fast, I can't keep up. Before I know it, you'll be a father and supporting your own family. I'm not sure if I'm ready to let you go yet. But someday I have to. And when that day comes, I want you to know that I love you and you're always my baby. You'll always be in my mind and in my heart. Like I said before, I love you Eren. And please don't ever forget that._

His heart ached. He wanted to see his mother again and thank him for such a beautiful gift. And to think she poured her soul into one present. Just for him and only him.

Eren smiled as his tears stained his jeans. He out his head in his hands and began to sob. Not only tears of sadness but also tears of happiness. As he cried, he has a soft smile on his face. He was sad of course, it pained him to know he's never going to see Carla again. But to know he hasn't lost her completely is the best feeling in the world. It made Eren a lot happier to know she was still with him. Very close at that.

"Levi, I'm so happy..." He mumbled.

"... What do yo-"

"She's still here. She's still with me. This present... Is the only thing I have that's connected to my mother, the last bond I have with her physically. I'm so happy... You don't even now how elated I am..." Levi smiled a little and softly took the necklace from his hand. He brought it behind his neck and locked it snuggly in place. The gold was cold against Eren's heated chest. But somehow, it made him feel safer and a little warmer inside.

"There, now its even closer." Levi said, admiring his work.

"Now she's on my heart. Both literally and figuratively. I love it..."

"It looks good on you."

"Thank you." Levi pulled Eren on his chest and held onto him tightly. Stroking his hair softly and leaving soft kisses on his cheek. This moment felt perfect. Something that he never wanted to end. Not only was Levi with him but his mother was too. Soothing his nerves, making him feel calmer. This made Eren feel like he wasn't alone and completely dependent on Levi.

That made Eren feel special. It made him feel the need to always do his best and to never let his mother down. Because his mother is his hero. The one thing that got him through life. The one thing that gave him life. And like hell he was going to let her down. He was going to be the absolute best he can be.

Even if it kills him.

* * *

A/N: Man I had a lot of writer's block writing this chapter it was almost painful! I like this on and how it turned out. We got a little bit of everything. I think I'm gonna add a little celebrity work next chapter but that won't be the main focus.

Thanks for all the lovely reviews, follows and favorites you guys are super sweet! And it makes me feel bad because I'm losing some inspiration to write this due to personal problems. But I'll get over it and hopefully I'll have the next chapter up on time!

Anyways, as I promised last chapter:

Review Response:

AnimePrince15: Thank you! And that was really what I was aiming for when I thought about how the characters should act and what should they say and interact with one another etc... Eren and Levi specifically. And I noticed how in many fanfictions, their relationship doesn't feel too realistic. Like in the canon verse if the Ereri ship does become canon, I highly doubt they would bring flowers and buy chocolates and be overly sweet to each other. It's very unlikely. So I started it off rough and not wanting to stand each others guts to something that's still romantically evolved yet they still fight and act like sarcastic bastards to one another. That's just kinda how I wanted the audience to relate to their relationship. Its something down to earth and that's how I wanted it to be.

Lizziebean95: Thank you. But hopefully, my upcoming fics will be even better. I'm glad you're enjoying it so far.

piscesgirl123: Eren really is precious. And Levi really changed from the beginning.

egefriend2: that's what happened to me too while reading a few parts. I as smiling like I was freaking insane!

Mitchell343e: Aurou won't be in the next upcoming chapters for a while. He might no be back until near the end. And trust me, the end is almost here.

NanoWorker: Thanks for the comment, appreciated as always.

PurpleOmpski: Thank you!

Bittersweet Alchemist: I'm gonna to try adding fluffy parts to lighten the story a little. Everybody needs it to be honest, thanks for reviewing.

CheshireKitKat: haha, it won't be a usual thing. Maybe every so often as a playful thing.

percydeathrotdeathdragonslay: Thanks for your kind words, it really means a lot! I'll try updating a lot sooner. Again, thanks for your nice commentary.


	27. Chapter Twenty Six: Black Forest Strata

The feeling of a cold morning was the first thing that Eren woke up to. Last night was the first time has slept well in weeks. When he sat up, he realized that Levi has already gotten out of bed and he was the only one left in the room.

He ran a hand through his messy locks and smiled softly to himself remembering last night's events. After he put on the necklace, Levi gave him something much better than passionate sex.

He gave him attention and made Eren feel needed. They cuddled, Eren's favorite thing to do, and talked about things they wanted in life. Whether it was with each other or something they wanted to achieve.

However, that didn't last for too long and in the end they joked with each other and shared a few laughs.

The teen ran his hand over his chest, feeling the key sitting upon his skin.

Slowly, he slid out of bed and inched towards the bathroom. Once he was inside, he closed the door behind him and ran a shower.

Today was gonna be a long day.

**~•~**

As soon as he exited the shower and tied a towel snuggly around his hips.

The first thing he noticed was the small breakfast waiting for him on the table next to the TV but the thing that really caught his eye was his suit folded nearly waiting for Eren to come out and put it on.

Today was the day. The day where Eren turns his life around completely and vows to start fresh.

Today, December 31st, 2013, was Carla Jaeger's funeral. Well January 1st, 2014 was the day of Carla's funeral. Why did Eren decide to arrange her funeral today? Simple.

He was planning on releasing her ashes at midnight which marked a brand new year, a brand new start. And tonight meant renewal and it meant tonight was the night Carla should be set free. She should be let go on a day in which everything of the past is left behind and all she could do now is look forward and continue to wherever the wind may take her. And even if the wind stops blowing, that doesn't mean she has to stop.

"Levi," Eren called. He waited for a response but got nothing. "Levi," he tried again.

"Yes, Eren?"

He sighed lightly in relief. "Where are you?"

"In your asshole," he replied snidely. He could hear Levi was proud of his ridiculous retort and as a result, Eren rolled his eyes.

"Haha, very funny. Are you already dressed? We have a lot to get done before the reception starts." Eren already began getting dressed. The towel was already pooling his ankles and he was stepping into his boxers.

"Of course I'm already dressed. I'm ready when you are."

Eren dressed quickly. Already he had his pants on and his shirt buttoned up. He threw on his jacker and buttoned it halfway. And now it came down to his absolute favorite article of clothing: his tie.

His skinny black tie that was a complete mockery to his existence.

He sighed and put it on the bed. He looked at the small plate of food and walked over to it, smiling softly. It was like how his mother made it... Except Levi made it and his mother wouldn't draw a penis out of maple syrup on his pancakes.

Ahh.

Good ol' Levi.

**~•~**

Eren finished eating in a record time. Levi still haven't came up stairs. As a matter of fact, he sounded pretty busy downstairs. He was on the phone with many people, or that's what it sounded like to Eren.

He jumped from one conversation to the next. He knew at one point he talked to Erwin and made amends with him, and it sounded like he talked to the hospital, and to somebody who is making him cough out a large amount of money. But Levi, as usual, made it sound like it wasn't such a big deal. And at one point, it sounded like he even spoke to Mikasa.

Once he was finished eating, he gathered his phone, and the disgusting necktie and headed out the room and downstairs to where Levi resided.

He bought down his plate because Levi would have one hell of of bitch-fit if he saw a dirty plate left in their room. When he rounded to the kitchen, he saw Levi leaning over the counter, busing himself in front of his phone.

He walked up behind Levi silently, not wanting to disturb him just yet. He saw a checkbook opened and filled out in front of him. Levi's signature topping it off. He then saw a small pile of money which fell out of it's ordered stack. And then there were documents surrounding him. His pen didn't look the least bit out of place within the mess.

"Oi, brat, are you just gonna stand there and stare like the impolite shit you are, or are you gonna kiss me and tell me good morning?"

Eren's heart jumped a little, not expecting to get caught since he was such an expert on sneaking. However, he kept his cool and played it off with the shrug of his shoulders. "I think I'll go with the first option." He put the plate in the sink and wrapped his arms around Levi, pressing himself against his small figure.

"What is all this stuff?"

"None of your business," Levi muttered, sounding like he was getting lost in something he was reading on his phone.

"I should've went with the first option. You're not even paying attention to me." Levi rolled his eyes and turned around, quickly placing a peck on Eren's lips and returning to what he was doing. "There. I noticed you."

Eren gasped, exaggerating. "Ah! Oh my gosh, Senpai noticed me!" He squealed, his eyes widening dramatically. The model didn't have to turn around to known Eren was smiling with that sarcastic, goofy grin.

However, he didn't respond to Eren's childishness.

This made Eren cock his head. He raised a brow and waltzed over to the sink. He turned on the water and began with his shenanigans.

"Oh, Levi look. I'm doing your favorite thing! Cleaning. Ohh, look at this! It's dish liquid! And it's going all over the plate! And watch this, I'll take the scrubber and rub it all over the plate to clean it! See? You're favorite thing, cleanliness!"

"Mhm, that's great." Levi scribbled something down and continued to give Eren little to no attention at all.

This made Eren irritated.

"Hey, the soap is scented."

"I know."

"Lemon scented~"

"I can smell it."

"The plate is clean."

"Okay."

"... There's a bottle of bleach in the cabinet. If you want I can give you some?" Eren urged.

"And what am I supposed to do with that?"

"I don't know... Clean?"

"You made it sound like I'm going to drink the damn thing,"

"You can do that too. You've always talked about being clean inside and out," The teen continued.

"Why are you trying to eat my attention, Eren?" Levi asked, his voice sounding annoyed. His facial expression didn't waver from calm however, and his eyes didn't lift from his phone screen once.

"Because I'm bored. I wanna play with Levi."

"We'll play later, I'll take you to the park or something."

"Ugggh," Eren stressed, he laid his head against Levi's back and inhaled his scent. He smelled like light cologne and god damn did it capture Eren's attention. It made him smile a little. If he could just find the right words to irk Levi...

"You look like a business man with all these papers and such in front of you. And with the way you're dressed... I should make you dress and smell like this more often, it's kinda hot."

"You're smelling me?"

"I wouldn't necessarily say that.. The smell just hit me."

"You're a strange kid, you know that?" It didn't come out as an insult, Levi seemed more amuse by Eren. He was starting to give into Eren and the attention he wanted was finally coming.

"Anyways, about looking like a businessman, the look really suits you. You gotta slicked your hair back and everything."

"Ew, I look like a senior with my hair slicked back, that's exactly why I don't do it."

"Really? Maybe you just don't do it right?" Eren leaned forward, close enough so his breath could tickle Levi's ear.

"Trust me, I will never slick my hair back."

"Why don't you let me do it?"

"Come on, Eren, stop trying to distract me."

"Buuut daaaaddy~"

Yup. That worked. Levi stopped everything he was doing. He put his phone to rest and set it down, fixing his posture. He turned around, taking Eren in his grip. "Daddy? Really? I thought you forgot about that."

"It's about time you started listening to me. I'm gonna start getting lonely you know." Eren smiled.

"You have Isabel."

"I don't converse with demons," Eren said flatly. His face matching his facial expression. "That'll open a gateway to Hell."

"She's not a demon. And I can't keep giving you my attention, especially in times like these."

"What do you mean?" Eren asked quickly. "Did something bad happen, is everything okay?"

"Yes, everything is fine. I'm just trying to get everything organized for today. I want everything to run smoothly and like clockwork. I don't want anything to go wrong today."

"You're starting to sound like Erwin."

"I know. I spoke with commander eyebrows earlier. He does have these nauseating effects on people. He truly is a shitstain."

"Okay, okay, come on now, tell me what you're doing. I can probably help you."

"No no, I don't want you to have to worry about anything today. The only thing I want you to focus on is your mother and where you want the funeral to be held. We still haven't discussed that yet."

Eren sighed and ran his hands through his hair, softly wiggling himself free of Levi's hold. "Yeah, I know... I'm still thinking about it. I don't want it to be too far but there isn't really any significant place in Shiganshina, Rose, or even Sina! So I'm still thinking about it. I want it to be special, ya know?"

The man nodded, understanding Eren's request. "Don't worry about the distance, as long as it's reasonable, I'll take you there with the others following close behind. So don't let distance be a burden. But we need to know where to go as soon as we finish running errands."

"Okay. Speaking of errands, you still haven't told me what you're up to, Mr. Ackerman. Explain your job description to me~" he battered his eyelashes and pushed himself against Levi, his finger lining the collar of his suit.

"What is this, the introduction to a bad porno?"

"... It can be."

"Eren, no."

"Eren, yes!" He exclaimed, purposely making it sound like a sexual cry.

Levi chuckled inwardly and began to maneuver each paper skillfully and into their own designated pile according to each document's purpose.

He then picked up his checkbook and organized the money, setting it down on their own pile.

"These documents," he started, pointing at the papers on the far left. "Is for the lot holding my car. I got a call earlier this morning from the lot and they're threatening to sell it if I don't pick it up by nine AM today to cover the towing and storage fees. They also need documentation from my insurance company, my ID and my driver's license so that's in this pile. The stack of money on top is to cover the cost. This pile is for you, actually," he said, moving onto the next pile.

"This is for the hospital. I have Carla's death certificate and the cost for the hospital bill. You'll need your ID, so don't forget it,"

"Don't worry, it's in my wallet and I won't forget it."

"This is for the cremation parlor. For Carla's cremation, it was a total of nine hundred and ninety eight dollars. So basically a thousand plus tax. They asked for identification and Carla's medical records and stuff so that's in this pile. They said whenever we're ready, we can come and pick up her ashes."

"That's a lot of money spent in one day..." Eren mumbled, biting back his words a little.

"That's not even the end of it."

"What do you mean?"

"Nothing, nothing, don't worry about it... Oi, Eren, you have a permit right?"

"N-no... Not really... I mean I drove about twice at night because Jean and the others were too intoxicated to drive... And I was sober enough so I got behind the wheel and managed to get them home and myself home in one piece. Does that count?"

Levi remained silent for a moment, taking it into consideration. Was he really gonna allow Eren to get behind the wheel of a moving vehicle? Hell, he wasn't allowed to work the blender without Levi's supervision. Sometimes he wouldn't even trust Eren to watch over a shopping cart because he knows when he comes back the shopping cart will be the same height as Mount Everest.

However, under these circumstances, he's gonna have to put his utmost faith in Eren's driving capabilities and pray they'll make it back in one piece. But if Eren said he managed to drive at night and get home safely, he'll take his word for it and trust him.

"Alright, then. I guess I have no other option..."

"What are you talking about? A-are you expecting me drive your Corvette? Or one of your other cars?! I'll happily oblige! Which one goes faster? I want the one that'll go from 0 to 200 in only a matter of milliseconds!" Eren exclaimed, a bright smile painting his face.

"Um, no. There's no way in hell I'm letting you get behind the wheel of a car that is worth more than Oprah. You're out of your mind, brat."

"Okay, then are you planning to buy me a car?"

"I wouldn't even trust you on a bike."

"Then why are you asking if I have a permit or not?" Eren was starting to get annoyed now.

Levi didn't respond. Instead he gathered up the papers and kept them in order by which task was gonna get done first, slid his phone in his pocket, and snatched his keys from the hook.

"Come on, we have a lot to do today. It's a little past six forty five and it takes about an hour to get over to the hospital, so we should get going."

"... Fine, but I better have an explanation after we leave the hospital."

"Deal." Levi began to walk out the kitchen, taking one last peak to make sure everything was in check. "Oh, and Eren, be a good boy and replenish Isabel's food bowl, will you?"

**~•~**

Eren wanted to go back to sleep but he knew he had to fight against his eyelids will to fall.

They were about ten minuets away from the hospital and it wouldn't be right to go there looking like a zombie who woke up in the middle of the night.

Plus, if there was something Eren hated more than Levi's cat, it would have to be getting woken up in the middle of a nap or even worse, sleep. He's not exactly a happy camper when he's right in the middle of a peaceful rest and he gets disturbed.

So instead, he let the wind of the morning kiss his skin and brush his hair and he stared in the direction of the sunrise. It was coming up. Slowly, but surely.

Splashes of blue, purple, pink and orange swirled in the sky dancing with each other. The sun was peaking through the buildings in the distance. Just a few more minuets and the sun would be in the sky warming up the day. It was still winter in Sina and even if Eren did have on his jacket, like Levi, he was still cold.

However. He wasn't wearing his jacket for his suit. So, he was wearing his button up, his mother's sweater and the jacket Levi gave him.

Within a few minuets, a few turns and stop lights later, they pulled into the round about leading to the front entrance.

Levi opened the glove compartment and pulled out the top stack of papers and dug into his pocket and pulled out money.

Quickly, he counted the money making sure it came out to the complete amount. "You have your ID, correct?"

"Hm? O-oh, yeah, right here in my wallet."

"Good. Go in there, show your identification, and give them the money for the hospital charges. Don't forget to gather any belongings of your mother." Levi took Eren's hand and handed him the money along with Carla's documents.

Eren smiled before he got out and pulled his jacket close to his nose.

He was grateful the hospital had a heater and it worked well. He walked up to the front desk. A woman with slightly dark, heavy eyelids begging for sleep, sat behind the computer. Her hair was wrapped up in a sloppy bun which was falling off the top of her head.

Eren could relate since he wanted to do the same thing.

"Um.. Excuse me?"

"Mmm... Hold on..." The woman groaned, lifting her head up to communicate better with Eren. "Are you here to visit someone?"

"No. I'm actually here to pay a bill. I-i'm the son of Jaeger, Carla."

"Ahh... I see..." She went to work, her fingers working across the keyboard. "Are you over the age of eighteen?"

"What does it look like?!" Eren didn't mean to come off as rude. But by the raise of her brow, he mumbled a small apology in return.

"May I see your ID?" Hm. So this is why Levi said to bring his ID. He's always going to be mistaken for a kid in their early to mid teens instead of a legal adult.

Instead of saying another word and possibly starting something completely unnecessary, he dug through his pocket, pulled out his wallet and fished for his ID, quickly handing it to the woman.

Her eyes scanned over it, and she said finally said, "Alright, for the bill that'll be six hundred and forty seven dollars and seventeen cents."

He counted the money, his hands occasionally fumbling. "Oh uh... I'm short seventeen cents but uh..." He handed her the money and took his wallet. "I have a dollar... Can you accept that for now?"

"Yes, but I'd have to go get change, so if you want you can wait here until I-"

"No," he interrupted, mumbling a soft sorry. "I really have to get going and it's just a dollar so keep the change. It's no big deal." Eren was starting to sound like Levi where money is concerned. It even surprised Eren a little. However, Levi coughed out money like it was water and it was an endless supply. He would give out any extravagant amount and it wouldn't be a problem. This was just a dollar and Eren had yet to learn how to give generous, and I mean really generous, amounts of money.

That'll be if he ever makes it to the extreme amount of money Levi has.

It'll probably take Eren ten generations before he gets that amount while Levi literally got half of it in about a year tops.

"Are you sure? It'll be really quick."

"Its fine, I really have to go anyways." Eren flashed a quick smile before turning on his heels and marching out, saying silent goodbyes to the brilliant hearing system and stepped back out into the Sina's undesirable cold.

"Honestly, I thought you were gonna take longer," Eren could hear his voice poisoned with sarcasm and only ignored his remark.

"Where are we going now?"

"To get my car. So sit back and enjoy the ride, it's gonna be a while before we get there."

Eren did as he was told. He sat back, trying to kindle some more heat in the jacket to fight against the cold. He laid his head back and watched as the sun continued to rise, light blue following behind to brighten up the skies. Eren felt calm, he felt like today was going to be a really good day for everybody. Even through there we're loads of tasks to complete, Eren was all in for it. He didn't mind because he knew in the end, it would mean something.

**~•~**

By "It's going to be a while before we get there" you would think he meant about thrity, literally was a while before they got to the car lot. About an hour and a half actually. And it surprised Eren they made it there in time, well about twenty minuets early, so they still had time to spare.

Levi pulled up to the security gate and the look the gatekeeper gave Levi was priceless. He looked utterly confused when Levi pulled up in a car that looked beyond out of place such as this. Hell, Levi looked out of place.

"A-are you... Oh my gosh..." The man smiled. His eyes gleamed and sparkled as Levi rolled his eyes showing his oblivious annoyance. "You're Levi Ackerman! The famous supermodel! One of celebrities top sex symbol! And he's here... At the gate... Of a place I work... God is real."

"... Yeah... Okay, uh-"

"I'm one of your biggest fans! You're such a positive inspiration for me!"

"It's always good to hear my fan base isn't just a bunch of eleven year old girls with an iPhone. Oi, Eren, remember when we first met I called you an eleven year old girl?"

"You still remember that?" Eren asked quickly.

"Eren's with you too?! Can I have your autograph?!"

"Look Eren, your first fan!" Levi laughed.

"I want your autograph too Levi, don't leave me hangin'."

"Alright, listen," Levi started. "I have about a good solid... Fifteen or so minuets left to pick up my vehicle before it's auctioned away. So if you don't mind I'd like to-"

"Can I pleeeeeease have you autograph? Please? I'll pay you! You can have whatever you want. If you'd like I get paid on Friday so you can drive down here on Friday to pick up my check! Or would you like my car? How about my house? I'll give it to you!"

"No! No, no, that's not necessary...!" Eren shouted, his voice falling as each word escape his lips. "We'll give you our autograph, it's no big deal. Right Levi?"

In returned, Levi made a soft sound with sounded like a grunt mixed with profanity.

The man happily handed the a pen and paper to Eren, which he happily signed with no complaint and he was even a little flattered, and then he handed it to Levi, who made a quick swivel of his name.

He even added a small, "Thanks for being a fan, I appreciate it," at the end.

Within a few minuets, they were inside the gates, and it took them about two minuets to find the front office. He pulled up front and gave strict instructions to Eren to stay inside the car and in under no circumstances is he to exit the vehicle or touch anything.

Even though Eren hated having to be under strict instructions, it meant be got to sit back and simply think of a place that would be perfect to let his mother go... And he had only a few more hours before it had to be decided and confirmed.

Levi said he would go the distance as long as it wasn't in Timbuktu... But there wasn't really a place that made Eren get that strong, overwhelming feeling he was looking for. Every serene place he thought of would just become a thought of the past within a seconds. Nothing held a steady, lingering feeling that made the hairs on the back of his neck stand up.

The places he thought of were beautiful, breathtaking actually. But they hold any significant meaning to him. They were lovely, but no exactly the type of memorable he wanted. What he needed to feel.

They could could past the City of Sina and go over the bridge, however, they would be crossing into another state, no longer the small area that consisted of only three large locations. Though, arguably, Sina is the smallest of the three.

Eren never thought this would be so hard. Well, he's never actually put any thought into this since his mother had another good forty or so years left on this earth... This isn't the easiest thing for somebody his age had to do. And by himself. He had Levi, yes, and Levi was a big help and encouragement along the bumpy roads. But Eren didn't have a father to help him, he didn't have a sister, or a brother, or any older significant figure in his life anymore. He was the only one of his family. Just him... Even though Levi was at his side, he wasn't considered family yet. Unless there's a ring on his finger, vows said followed by "I do," and sealed with a kiss, it was not official in Eren's mind.

They were nothing more than a couple in the media and behind closed doors.

The door to the front office opened and out walked Levi and a man of a towering 5'10 followed closely behind. The man looked at Eren through the corner of his eye, but looked away when Levi called him.

"Where is my car parked?"

"Over here, sir," the man lead him over near the mid-left of the lot. Eren only sat back and watched as the man removed the locks from the back of Levi's rear tires.

"You're the owner of this car, correct?" The man asked.

"In the flesh,"

"Is that boy going to drive your Corvette?"

"No sir, I am." Levi responded.

"You're not allowed to do that." The man deadpanned quickly. Levi was taken back by surprise but didn't allow it to show. "Why can't he drive the Mustang? There's no way in hell I'm letting anybody but me get behind the wheel of my Corvette."

"Then expect your Mustang to stay here overnight. But don't expect to pick it up in the morning. Only the owner of this vehicle is allowed it drive it off the lot. Sorry, company rules."

Levi was literally a second away from giving this man a tongue lashing of that would burn his dead ancestors. However, he held his peace and directed his attention towards Eren who eagerly waited for Levi go give him the go. Levi should've know sooner of later the brat was going to get what he wanted. No matter how much it killed him to admit it...

Eren really is spoiled.

Isn't he?

"Alright. Rules are rules," Levi said with a shrug. "Oi, brat. You got you wish."

Eren's eyes lit up like a Christmas tree. And Levi couldn't get half a word out before Eren unlocked his seatbelt and dashed to the drivers side of the car. His legs were squished, he had to admit that. Leg room in this car were built for midgets... Or people of Levi's height.

He moved around, trying to get his legs comfortable. He eased on the gas listening to the engine purr.

His body shivered listening to the fine art that is this car. His fingers ran over the wheel and a large, toothy grin rose to his lips showing his excitement.

Levi smiled halfway and took his keys from the man's hands. "It was good doing business with you." He opened the drivers side of his car and got inside, quickly starting up the engine and flashed a smirk at the man. He eased out of the lot and drove slowly waiting for Eren to take the Corvette out of park.

"What are you waiting for brat?" Eren noticed Levi put the roof of his convertible down and staring at Eren with unblinking eyes through the rear view mirror. Eren blinked and reached down, shifting gears.

His foot toyed with the gas, taking the car slow first to get a feel of it.

Levi waited for Eren to drive by first before he pulled off behind him. There was no way Eren was going to be behind Levi.

The man at the gate with a smile, let them leave and it was up to Eren to lead the way. Except, he had absolutely no idea where to go now. He's been following Levi up until this point. He pushed down on the gas, taking the car up to fifty MPH. Levi raised a brow and did the same to catch up with Eren.

The teen was smiling and he didn't even realize it. Another sign of independence and Eren's never felt more happy; more alive. He remembered what Armin told him. Just follow the lines of the road, stay calm and don't drive recklessly. Don't speed, stay within the speed limit, and don't drive recklessly.

He chuckled to himself as he looked around, cars scattered about driving at their own pace on the three lane road. However, him and Levi stayed neck and neck. Well, Eren a little bit more ahead than his partner.

Eren glanced back in the rear view mirror at Levi, sending signals hr had absolutely no idea where he was going or where to go. Levi only shrugged and smirked a little.

Was this Levi telling Eren he had authority over where they were headed? This day was only getting better!

The only thing was, Eren had no specific location in mind on where they should go...

**~•~**

Levi knew where they were going, even though Eren looked like a lost puppy thrown behind the controls of a speeding train. This is the same exact route they took to get back to Sina so of course there was only one place they were headed.

The first red light they came to, Levi pulled on the side of Eren, giving him an impressed look.

"You know, I don't know why you don't have at least a permit. You're not half bad, for a shitstain."

"Thanks, old man."

"Though, you were over thinking it. And you looked panicked a couple of times. And when you do that, you unconsciously accelerate on the gas."

"You noticed?" Eren asked, his voice hiking up an octave.

"Mhm," the model hummed. "But it's nothing we can't fix."

"I don't mean to... But I slow down when I realize I'm going too fast." The teen mumbled, turning his attention back on the road in front of him. When the light clicked green, he was off. The Corvette was halfway down the street and Levi only chuckled when he saw the brat off in a distance. This was a pretty good day so far. The brat isn't completely useless, he finally got to drive a luxury car, what more could he ask for? Eren was happy so Levi was automatically happy.

Plus, it was interesting to sit back and let Eren take control on what they were doing for once.

A few stop lights later, they crossed over into Rose. At first, Levi was surprised because they were taking the same roads to Titan Chronical but then the idea faded when Eren continued straight through the round about instead of taking left which lead to Rogue Avenue.

Eventually, they would end up in the heart of Rose Capitol.

It didn't take too long before they reached their obvious destination. It took all of Levi's willpower not to smack Eren on the side of the head because of this.

"Wendy's? I thought you were taking me to where the funeral's going to be held." Levi turned off the engine of his car and got out, walking over to Eren.

"I'm hungry and I really want a frosty... And I still haven't decided where to go yet. I'm trying, honestly." Levi sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose.

"I hate going inside restaurants..."

"You go inside the supermarket."

"Yes, with sunglasses and such. And on days when I don't have such an important upcoming event later that night!"

"Ugh..."

"Speaking of which, have you figured out where to hold the funeral yet?"

Eren exhaled heavily through his nose and through his head back. "I'm thinking! I'm only one person, ya know!"

"..."

"You know what?" Eren said, snapping his head towards the model. "Why don't you think of a location? Don't just dump the load me."

"Dump the load on you? The hell are you talking about? I'm giving you a break. You just drove my fucking Corvette for fucks sakes and I'm willing to eat fast food with you. I fucking hate fast food and you know it. But I deal with it because you like it, and I don't complain."

"Don't change the subject." Eren said stubbornly.

"I'm not changing the subject. You have no room to say I'm putting a load on you because, hello, this is for Carla. You're her son, you're her last piece of family, I understand this is hard on you but we can't put this off."

"I know that. I'm not trying to put this off-"

"Then stop procrastinating and get your shit together."

"... Fuck you."

"Not tonight."

Eren giggled softly and looked up. "I'll stop bitching once I eat... I'm still getting a frosty, right?"

"Of course, you little shit."

Levi managed to bribe the cashier into giving them a private table at the back of the restaurant... Well it wasn't exactly private per say but it was away from all the obnoxious costumers and nobody bothered them while they were at their table.

Many exchanged glares. Some confused why two of the world's top well known celebrities were sitting in Wendy's in the middle of Rose, some disgusted to see two males simply enjoying lunch and exchanging small talk and because they were in love. Some even stared with that one smile on your face when your parents say you're going to Disney World.

But Levi responded with a quick look, sometimes a mean, cold look when people were staring just because of their sexuality, and went back to his meal and Eren.

Right now, everybody excluding Eren and Carla was not important.

If it didn't concern Eren or plans for Carla, he didn't want to hear it.

The model did not allow Eren to overeat. Since whenever Eren came to fast food restaurants, he likes to order three-fourths of the menu. For a kid who only weighs at least 140 pounds, he can sure eat a lot. His appetite comes as a surprise.

Even though Eren was upset he couldn't have two large fry, three burgers, a drink and so on, once Levi said "We are going to eat tonight, so save your appetite," Eren reluctantly agreed to cut down his eating options.

They couldn't stay long. A swarm of people were starting to gather in Wendy's and trying to look in the back to see them. A few camera lights went off too.

Plus, it wasn't like their day ended here. He let Eren take the wheel for once, however, it was time they got back on track now.

Allowing Eren to drive wasn't on his to do list today.

Levi stood. Eren's bright eyes only looked up, slightly confused as the man fixed his jacket and began to throw away his garbage.

"Are we leaving now?"

"Yes, we still aren't finished with the day. I have more plans and staying in here isn't what I had in mind." He walked over to the garbage can and glared at the crowd of girls beginning to line themselves up along the window.

"Plus this is starting to get out of hand..."

Eren nodded. He looked over at the girls and smiled lightly. This is what they wanted so why not play in a little bit? Coping Levi's actions, he gathered his trash and threw it away. Toting his large Strawberry Lemonade drink and his medium fries and walked out the door, bracing himself for both the cold and the screaming girls.

"Oh my gosh, look, it's Eren!"

"Smile Eren!"

"Look at his eyes! They really are sea blue!"

"They look green!"

"They look more like teal, leaving more towards blue though..."

"Eren, where's Levi!"

The teen took an unconscious step back and his smile faltered. Okay, so maybe feeding the crowd wasn't such a good idea because he was being bombarded with questions.

And the swarm was only getting bigger, multiplying by the minute. It was like a bug infestation that wasn't going to end soon.

His heart jumped when Levi touched his shoulders and pulled him close. Levi glared at him, but didn't say a word.

"Levi! Eren! Where are you heading to next? Where are you going?!"

"That's none of your business. However, I will say that we have a very busy and personal day today so if you can excuse us, we'll be on our way," Levi said calmly, slipping his hands around Eren's waist leading him to the Corvette. He dug through his pockets and gave the keys to Eren before walking around and getting into his Mustang.

"Wait wait wait!" Somebody cried from the crowd. "Why are you and Eren in different cars? Did you guys get divorced?!"

Divorced? Who in God's name said they even tied the knot?

Levi groaned and started up his car and Eren did the same. "Who said we got divorced? Who even said we were married?" Many of the girls shouted they read it in a magazine or they saw it online which only irritated Levi further.

"You shouldn't believe everything you see and hear, especially if it didn't come from the source or cold hard evidence proving it. Eren and I aren't in the same vehicle because this one was in the shop and I needed to pick it up. So I let Eren drive the Corvette while I drive this one. And it's a little treat for Eren." Levi half lied. The last part was true but they didn't need to know and carry on about how Levi got arrested and got his car towed.

"Anyways, ladies and gentleman, it was a pleasure to speak to you but Eren and I must be on our way."

**~•~**

Levi insisted leading the way and Eren wasn't opt to put up a fight and retaliate against his decision.

So Eren followed closely behind Levi and he wasn't surprised to see Levi was heading home. Levi punched in the gate code and made many twist and turns before they pulled into the long, curved driveway. Levi put his car in park and clicked open the garage with the remote.

Once the garage was open, he motioned Eren around. "Alright brat, you know where the car goes right?"

"Yeah... I think so... Right next to the BMW, right?"

"No, park it next to the Bentley. Once it's parked, turn it off and bring your ass back and get inside the passenger's side. I'll explain where we are going once you're back."

The teen nodded and eased his foot on the gas slowly pushing it down and pulling into the open spot next to the pure black Bentley.

He sighed heavily, a smile gracing his lips as he ran his fingers over the wheel on last time and turned off the engine. He sat there for a moment and looked over at the assortment of cars in the garage before getting out of the Corvette and saying his silent goodbye's.

Once he reached Levi's Mustang, he smiled and hopped into the front seat, locking in quickly.

"That was really fun," Eren said softly. Levi didn't respond. He only clicked the button on the garage and put his convertible in reverse and began to pull out of the driveway to his home.

"I'm sure it was. Live in the moment, I want you to. Because you're not ever driving another one of my cars again. This is just pure luck."

"Mhm," Eren said, a cocky shit eating grin painting his lips. "We'll see about that. Sure, it may be luck but my New Years Resolution is to get my license and get my own car."

Levi shrugged off his words nonchalantly. "Do what you want brat, as long as my stuff isn't involved."

"Why are you in such a shitty mood? You act like I did something wrong."

"I'm not in a shitty mood; I'm somewhat... Happy..." Levi pulled out into the main street of Sina and took the bridge that headed towards the opposite end of the city. "I'm not saying give up on your Resolution. I'm quite fond of it actually. I'm just saying my cars and other items like that are not to get involved."

"What, do you not trust me or something?" Eren asked, his face twisted into irritation and offense.

"No, its not that. I trust you, its just... Those cars go a lot further back than you think."

"What do you mean by that? You know... Now that we're on this topic, I've been meaning to ask... Why do you have so many cars when you usually only drive this one?"

"... The cars you see in the garage weren't all meant for me. A majority of them were meant for close friends... Or should I say family?"

"Go on... I'm kinda getting the message... A little..."

"Hm... Well, the Bentley you saw in there, the black one, that was meant for Mikasa. But she told me to hold onto it because she bought herself an SUV. But when there's a special occasion or an A-list event she's invited to, she will take the Bentley. But usually, she denies many invites to parties like that. She's not into the social status and she'd much rather keep it that way. The Jaguar, Lexus, and the Camero belonged to a friend of mine named Farlan. Him along with Isabel died in a car accident a few years back."

"Oh... I remember you told me that.. When we first started our dating lie."

"Yes, I just didn't think you'd still recall that."

"Don't worry, I did. Did you buy anything for Isabel? What about her?"

"... The only thing she wanted was a Mustang."

"And did you buy one for her?"

"Are you serious?"

"You didn't?!"

"You're sitting in the car I was going to give to her, idiot! Jesus, I know your slow, Eren but come on. Think logically with that brain of yours."

"I am! And I'm not slow..." Eren's voice died down slowly. The car fell

silent for a moment before Eren finally spoke up and said, "How come she wanted this car? I-I mean it's pretty cheap for you... I-I mean uhh... I mean the other cars you bought are around 120,000 and above... And this car is no more than about 27,000 at most. So... How come she wanted this one in particular...?"

"... She likes the body of the car, a lot. It's affordable, I mean, she chose a car that is no skin off my ass which I was pretty surprised because I thought she was going to chose the most extravagant, outrageous, most expensive car possible. But she chose a Mustang. Simply for the reasons: the roof can go down and she likes the body of the car. And this Mustang costed around 40,000. Simply because it's a GT Premium Automatic."

"What's the difference? Aren't they the same thing except more expensive than the other?"

"The interior, really. Plus, it drives a lot smoother on the highway. It's a little more upgraded in performance."

"That's it?"

"Yeah, the pretty much sums it up."

"I hate you rich snobs. Buying shit like its nothing..." The teen muttered, his words not affecting Levi one bit.

Eren cleared his throat as the conversation died down again.

Out of the corner of his sea colored eyes, he watched as Levi sink down in the seat and let his hands loosely glide over the wheel. His facial expression dropped to nothing more but blank and almost robotic.

"Is that why you always drive this car... Because Isabel had her eyes set on this one?"

"Mhm." Levi hummed simply, with no intentions on saying another word.

Eren sighed softly. "Did you buy anything for yourself?"

"What do you mean?"

"Did you buy yourself a car?" Eren specified. "You seem to like to pamper others and disregard yourself at times. So, did you buy yourself something as well?"

"Of course I did. The Corvette, a BMW Z4 , a 2014 Maserati GranTurismo, a 2014 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class, and a 2014 Porsche 911. But, I don't usually like to buy these things for myself, I like to buy them for my family to keep them happy."

"I see... Hey, Levi?"

"Yes, brat?"

"What was Isabel and Farlan like?"

Levi went silent, dreadfully silent. His brain was clicking everything together. He opened his mouth to say something but nothing came out. And instead, his jaw closed.

"Did I say something wrong?" Eren asked slowly, his words taking precaution.

"No," the model said lowly. His voice coming out soft. "Nobody's really ever asked me that question before... So it took me by shock a little. It was unexpected."

"Oh, I'm sorry..."

"Don't fret. Anyway, Farlan, in contrast to Isabel, was very focused, level headed, and he hated when things got out of control. He also knew how to make the distinction between fun and when to get serious when the time came down to it. Isabel however, was the complete opposite. She was energetic, outgoing, headstrong and quite confident in her abilities, kinda like you honestly... Actually, now that I think about it, she was much like you to be honest. The only difference is she had red hair and her eyes are a deep emerald green. Other than that, you two are exactly alike,"

"So... If I was to meet her, we would click automatically?"

"Pretty much. When I first saw you, I had to take a second look because I thought I saw her for a second. That's one of the reasons why I wanted you to do the photo shoot with me."

"You liked me for the most selfish reasons..." Eren mumbled.

Levi shrugged, and pulled on Eren's cheek. "Yes, I did. Now I genuinely like you... Sometimes."

"What's the supposed to mean?!" Eren exclaimed.

"It means exactly as you think it means. I did use you at first and I ended up falling for you. Understand?"

"Of course I understand!... Levi... Why are we..." His words died down when they drove into South-Side Sina Cemetery and Crematorium. It went uphill, to the left of them were beautifully kept graves. The grass was a bright green; bright colors laid on top of graves along with occasional presents here and there. On one grave there was a medium sized teddy bear with a pink and blue bow tied around it's neck.

Maybe children were buried there?

Eren swallowed hard as he tried with all his might now to look at the graves. He thought if he stared too long, it was disrespectful to the people who silently rested.

Levi didn't look to hot himself. Even though his face kept its usual blank façade, it was slowly slipping away as minutes ticked by. He didn't want to be here, Eren knew it. Maybe it wasn't such a good idea to ask about Isabel and Farlan since they were heading towards a funeral parlor.

But it's not like Eren knew they were going here!

... But he should've guessed...

The model parked perfectly in a spot two spaces away from the entrance. He shut off the engine and sighed inwardly as he closed his eyes slowly. He sat there for what felt like minuets with his eyes closed before he opened them.

He looked at Eren who only stared back, freight and terror mixed in his eyes.

Levi took his hand and smiled softly. "You know, you're doing very well so far. You're very strong emotional wise, especially on a day like this. You've remained happy throughout the day and I'd hate to see that smile die,"

He softly brushed his hair behind his ear. "If you want, you can stay inside the car and I'll let you download a game on my phone to keep you entertained until I come back, oka-"

"No!... No... You don't need to do that, Levi," he smiled softly. "I can go with you, I'll be fine."

"... You sure? If you don't want to, you can stay here. Its no problem with me."

"I know it's not," he said. "But, I think I should go inside with you."

"Are you sure?"

"Mhm,"

"Positive?"

"Yeah, I'm sure." Eren smiled reassuringly.

Eren got out the car with Levi in pursuit. And no matter how much his stomach churned and his heart ached as he inched closer, he ignored the uprising feelings and entered the brightly lit building. Inside was beautiful.

The atmosphere was calming and serene. Inside, from the candles and the chandeliers, gave off a golden, hazy glow. The inside was warm compared to the cold weather outside. The furniture was very vintage and gave off a 1920's feel.

He stood in the middle of the spacious room, taking in his new surroundings. That was until Levi snuck up behind him and wrapped his hand around his. Levi dragged Eren to the front desk.

He didn't say anything, Levi spoke up for him. He gave the papers to the man at the desk, he introduced himself and Eren, showed identification, and even told the man who's ashes they were here to receive.

The man simply typed in the given info, took Carla's records and headed around back to get what they came for.

After a few minuets, the man came back out with a white jar. He handed it to Eren with a gentle smile. The wrinkle under her his folding up giving away his aged appearance.

"You're 's son, right?"

"Yes sir," Eren replied respectfully, taking the beautifully crafted urn from the man's hands. It was a fairly sized jar with a dove crafted on the front of it. Underneath the lid, Carla Jaeger was printed beautifully in black ink. Behind the dove, was an assortment of different blossoming pink flowers. The colors weaving between light and dark pink with thick, rich colored vines peaking here and there behind the flowers. His lips cracked into a small smile as he looked up.

"Eren, right?" The man asked.

"Hm? O-o-oh yeah, it's Eren..." His voice was low.

"You seem like a nice kid. You have beautiful eyes, very uncommon around these parts,"

"I know. I come from German and Turkish roots so that explains my unusual complexion."

"Unusual, but gifted," the man said. "You don't see many German or Turkish folk 'round Sina or Rose; not even Shiganshina," He held out his hand to Levi and gave him an all too familiar object. "You got a special friend, buddy."

"He's much more than a friend." Levi said simply. He looked down at the necklace and looked at Eren who had tears brimming his eyes.

"This belonged to your mother. I removed it before I started the cremation process. I thought that you might want it back. I'm sure your mother would much rather leave it in your possession instead of burning it."

Levi handed the necklace to Eren who took it quickly, running his hand over the finely crafted jewels. "Thank you for giving this back to me," The teen's voice wavered.

"No need to thank me. I shouldn't keep you two here, the day hasn't ended yet. Altogether, the total comes to nine hundred and ninety eight dollars."

**~•~**

The ride back home was awfully silent. Many things ran though the teen's head. Occasionally, his ming would think about the money Levi had to dish out today without complaint, and the kind words the elder man complemented him with. But overall, his mind continued to always go back to one topic: His mother's funeral.

He would think about anything, ranging from food, to music, or even video games to not get himself emotionally worked up. But even still would he have to try to fit back the tears.

Sometimes he would try to find something to do one his phone resulting in nothing more than failure.

Once they got back to Levi's home, Eren noticed many cars parked in the driveway.

Many of which were exceptionally valuable, wealthy cars that he didn't seem to recognize with the exception of a few.

He recognized the black Cadillac Escalade parked closest to the house- which was obviously Mikasa since he's seen it in front of her gym numerous times and once in front of her home. He also noticed Hanji's Barrosa Premium Land Rover parked somewhat crookedly compared to other cars. But what should they expect? He then realized that Hanji and Erwin did not come together. Erwin's car, a midnight dark blue Rolls Royce Phantom, was parked perfectly in the back of Mikasa's vehicle and next to Hanji's car.

He also remembered the white Lexus that smelled like vanilla...

He didn't know why but he got an uneasy feeling know that Petra was here. He knew that if Petra was here, most specifically Levi's home, Auruo would be tagging along with his guard up.

He looked at Levi, slightly confused why everybody was at his estate but Levi didn't seem phased by it. "It's rude to stare brat, especially with your mouth open. You'll catch a fly."

Eren's jaw snapped shut and he cocked his head slightly.

"They're here for the funeral, use your head. I don't mean to sound harsh, so don't take this to heart. I don't want you to get the wrong idea, especially in a time like this. Now, Eren, tell me that you've finally decided on a location."

Eren remained silent, his face dropping to a blank. His lips thinned as Levi turned off the Mustang in the back of Hanji's sloppy parking skills. Levi would have to scold her later.

"Have you?" Levi asked a bit more harshly, demanding an answer from his younger partner.

"No." Eren said simply.

"Why not? Eren, don't you realize that this is important? We don't have time for indecisiveness, its about two hours before sundown."

"I know that!" Eren nearly shouted. "I just haven't thought of anything so please, just stop putting pressure on me. I understand we literally have two hours to get over to where we're going to release her ashes and give me about... Another hour to decide."

Levi sighed as Eren opened the car door and paced quickly to the door. He watched as the door opened and an extremely over excited Hanji answered, pulling him into a bear hug and dragging him inside. The first thing that crossed Levi's mind was, who the fuck allowed Hanji to answer the front door? His front door to make matters worse. She'd probably let in a serial killer or a robber with open arms and a loving smile.

The model opened his door and tugged his jacket tighter around him as the wind started to howl. He hurried inside before an explosion goes off somewhere in his house or his house gets flooded or something worse than that. He opened the front door. Oh, such a surprise... she forgot to lock the door...

Only if Levi was an escape prisoner looking for a nice house in Sina to rob.

"Oi, shitty four eyes, you left the fucking door unlocked,"

"Leeevi!" A pair of arms wrapped tightly around his neck pulling him down into a headlock and an embrace. "Jesus, you shitstain, get the hell off!"

"Don't be like that~ come on, you know ya missed me. Give mama Hanji a big ol' hug-"

"Get your filthy arms off me, I don't know where you've been!"

"Don't be like that~"

"Alright, Hanji, that's enough. Give the man some space, will you?" Levi's fighting died down completely when that soft, feminine voice danced through his ear.

Hanji let him go and turned to the source. "Lighten up, Petra, I'm only saying hi to Levi. I haven't seen him and Eren in such a long time, I thought they fled the country!"

"Is there something wrong with your head?... Wait, no, don't answer that," Levi wiggled from her grasp and fixed his disarrayed clothing. "I don't need a full on lecture on what goes through that brain of yours. While you're intelligent, you sure are a freaky ass person."

"Hehehehe~ you got that right~" the woman cooed, her smile crooked and her brown orbs widened.

"Hanji, get your creepy ass the fuck way from me." Petra giggled, making Levi's breath hitch in his throat. He took an unconscious step back as Petra took ahold of Hanji and led her towards the living room. "Go with the others and watch some TV, okay?"

"Hell yeah! Hannibal should be coming in a few minuets and like hell I'm missing that!"

For once, Levi actually wished Hanji didn't leave the room. He was thinking about coming up with an excuse to get out of the slight tension which was forming between him and the ginger. Instead, he stood as if he wasn't getting the least bit bothered by the unknowing woman.

"So... Levi..." The woman said, inching closer behind the man. "I heard about what happened to ..."

"It's tragic." Levi says simply. His words monotone yet sympathetic.

Petra nodded slowly. "Tragic, indeed. It's heartbreaking, especially for Eren. I can't imagine the angst he's going through right now."

"I agree. However, his emotional conditions are doing much better now where as his mother is concerned."

Petra smiled a little, placing her hands on Levi's shoulders. "And I would hope his elated emotions would have something to do with you... Am I correct?"

"Mostly, yes. But they also come off of him as well. He's healing and that's a very good thing. Seeing him upset is such a shitty thing."

"Levi, I must ask. What do you see Eren as? What is he to you?" She asked slowly.

"... What do you mean?" Levi turned around, her hands slipping off his shoulders as he did so.

"I mean it as I phrased it, silly," she smiled gingerly. "What is Eren to you? Many of us are questioning whether this is truly a fling or a committed relationship."

"Why would this be a fling? I basically take care of him now. And as I stated before while Eren was admitted into the hospital, I've started letting my emotions take some control instead of my brain. I must admit, it has done justice on our relationship."

"Relationship you say?"

"I didn't stutter." His voice came out more harsh than he intended it too; venom poisoning his words.

"..." Petra didn't respond. She stood slightly shocked by his unexpected tone. Although, Levi didn't seem the least bit phased by his nasty remark.

"I'm sorry to have come off as rude, Petra, but I was just caught off guard by these questions. Tonight, only one person should be on our minds and that's . And I'm curious as to why Eren's well being and the brat's and I's relationship is relevant."

"No, no, I know tonight's supposed to be dedicated to Carla and I respect that, I was just asking about-"

"I understand," Levi started, apologizing to the woman for cutting in. "... I just don't think you know what your fiancés been up to and it's up to me to keep both Eren and I safe. And if not myself, then at least Eren."

"Auruo? What do you mean, what has he been up to?" The woman asked cautiously, her eyebrows furrowing into confusion.

Levi raised an elegant brow and crossed his arms. By the looks of it, Petra was completely oblivious to Auruo's doing, which is to be expected. He was in his own home yet he felt restricted to what he does, says, and how much information or secrets he gives out. The male gave him strict instructions and warnings that Levi will follow and not take lightly. Because, one slip up might lead to the death of another close relative to Eren, Levi or to Eren himself.

His eyes scanned his surroundings; nobody was around. Hanji was in the living with Mikasa, Erwin, and a few workers from Garrison and the Recon. But that didn't necessarily mean Auruo was in the same room as them. Hell, he could be listening to the conversation right now and watching for a distance. Or worse he could be near Eren...

Just the thought of that was enough to anger and sicken Levi.

But, there was no way he could do anything here. In Levi's home, where everyone's gathered just downstairs.

It'd look really bad if Eren unexpectedly turns up dead and with no explanation.

That's too risky.

So, quickly, Levi dropped the terrible thought but, that didn't stop it from lingering in the back of his mind and continue into his subconscious.

"Levi," Petra's voice echoed through his ear, knocking him from his thoughts.

"Hm? Oh, I'm sorry, I spaced out."

"What has Auruo been up to? Is there something you're not telling me? Is he cheating on me?"

"What? No. It has nothing to do with you two."

"Then what exactly do you mean?"

"There's a lot you can't know as of yet."

"Like what, Levi?! What can't I know? What are you and Auruo keeping from me?" She sounded like she was desperate, begging to know.

"Look, its my fault for bringing it up, but right now this doesn't concern you."

"And when will it? My wedding day? When he tells me he's leaving me or something?! If this didn't concern me, why did you bring it up?"

"As I said before, I'm taking precautions for Eren and I's well being."

"So what, you and Auruo teamed up now?"

"No,"

"Are you guys plotting something against me?!"

"What the- no!"

"Then what? Why can't I know? This concerns my future husband and ex boyfriend, obviously something's up!" Petra pressed.

"Was that really necessary? Future husband and ex boyfriend...?"

"Then tell me what the hell's going on! What secrets are so bad that you can't tell me?! Why are you both keeping secrets from me? I know you always kept secrets from me, so I would expect this type of behavior, but from Auruo?"

"..."

"Is that why he stayed home? Is he lying about being sick?!"

"..."

"It all makes sense! Why else would he miss such an important event?!"

Levi was literally seconds away from snapping at the ginger and ready to spill everything she needed to know. However, hearing a confused, softening voice coming from the staircase, he held everything back and put it back under lock and key. "What's with all the yelling? I came down as quick as I could when I heard Levi's voice escalading..."

Before Petra could speak, Lelvi cut in and walked up to Eren. "Everything's just fine," Levi reassured, taking his hand. "Petra and I just had a small disagreement."

Petra scowled and turned on her heels. "You're a disgusting person, Levi. You know what you're doing is wrong and I refuse to let you make a fool out of me."

With that, she left the room. Eren feeling a little more awkward then Levi.

"I-I'm sorry... Did I do something? Or did I intrude on a private conversation or...?"

Levi shook his head slowly, letting go of Eren's hand. "No. You did absolutely nothing wrong. As a matter of fact, this isn't your fault. It's Auruo's... As well as mine for bringing up the topic."

"What topic?"

"Don't worry your pretty little head about it. You'll find out soon enough but right now, you and Petra are irrelevant due to... Safety precautions. I would like you keep you safe because you're all that matters to me."

"Is this another argument between you and Auruo?"

"... If anything, yes. And I'll explain everything when the time is right. Until then, it does not concern you."

"... Alright..." Eren said slowly, drawing it out curiously. "Why did Petra say she refuses to allow you to make a fool out of her and why did she say you're a disgusting person?"

"Because, from what I'm hearing, I believe she's questioning Auruo's loyal commitment to their relationship. But, that might not be true, these are just my observations and opinions," he stated.

"Why do you think that?"

"Simple," Levi started. "If she wasn't doubting Auruo's faithfulness, why would her first assumption be that he's cheating on her?"

Eren shrugged. "I don't know," he continued. "What did you ask to upset her like that? I've never seen Petra so angry. That's unlikely of her."

"I didn't ask anything. Yes, I upset her. I accept full responsibility for that. But she was the one coming on strong with questions about our relationship and how I feel about you. Now, you know I despise Auruo and the fact his soon to be wife is questioning my relationship and my feelings for you, makes me a bit uneasy."

"Oh, Levi, there's no need to be so overprotective. It was just a question. Even I would like to know where I stand in your heart," he cooed, poking at his chest. "Even if there is just a dark void inside."

Levi kissed him on his jawline, leaving light butterfly kisses before kissing his lips. They stayed for a moment, before Eren pulled away with pink dusting his cheeks. "You know how I feel about you. I'll repeat myself if I have to," Levi smirked. However, his smirk leaned more towards a gentle smile.

"Anyways, let's not talk about this anymore. Tonight is about your mother and she's all that should matter. Speaking of which, have you figured out where to hold her funeral? If not, I'll give you some more time."

Eren giggled a little bit and smiled. "Actually, that's what I wanted to tell you. I think I know where the funeral is gonna be held."

"Really. That's great! Plus we have some sunlight left to find the location. Just give me directions and we'll head out now."

"That'd another thing I wanted to talk to you about," Eren looked at Levi and smiled even wider. "I would like to drive."

"My car?"

"Uh-huh."

"To where?!"

"I can't tell you yet, its a surprise. Which is why I want to be the lead in taking everybody there. So in order for me to do that, I have to drive."

"Jesus, kid. You're getting spoiled rotten and a lot faster than I expected too." Levi sighed, brushing his locks from his eyes. "I'm not spoiled. And to make you feel better, you can choose which car we take. Anything expect the Corvette and the Mustang."

"Spoiled brat."

"Is that supposed to be an insult?"

"It can be whatever you make it."

"Okay, then... Thanks, I take it as a compliment. I know I'm a spoiled brat, and its because you spoil me. I'll take no for an answer. After all, you are my da-"

"Save it," the model snapped lightly, his hand covering Eren's mouth. Only for tonight, I won't tell you no. Maybe. As for driving... I guess you're capable of doing so.. But once the ceremony is over, I'll be the one behind the wheel. Deal?" He slowly removed his hand, awaiting the teen's response.

Eren smiled lightly and extended his hand, repeating Levi's offer. "Deal?"

"I'm the only one making deals here brat," Levi smirked, firmly shaking Eren's hand. "You get to chose the car we take this time and we'll be on our way."

**~•~**

Eren was ready to go. He sat inside the Aston Martin Vanquish waiting for Levi to get everybody out of the house and making sure his house was left in tact and with nothing out of place.

So for now, while Levi's OCD for cleanliness drove him berserk, he allowed Eren to sit inside the luxury vehicle and get used to the interior. His foot toyed with the gas and breaks and his hands glided smoothly over the wheel. He was starting to get used to the luxurious lifestyle and he was really enjoying it.

The car smelled like fresh leather. And from just the smell, look and feel of the car, he knew it was worth more than himself. He didn't even want to leave a finger or the smallest of dust particles.

He felt honored just to have a glimpse of the vehicle.

His worship and fondling with the car lasted for about eight minutes. His phone started ringing, startling him. He looked at the caller ID and slid the answer button across.

"Hey Marco, what's up?"

"Ew, it's Eren." The all too familiar voice said. The boy groaned and rolled his eyes. "Man, I had no idea Marco turned into a horse."

"First off all, I'm not Marco-"

"Well, my caller ID begs to differ,"

"I'm using his phone, genius."

"Why didn't you call me with your phone? You have my number."

"... You never answer my calls half the time so it basically unreliable and rendered useless."

"Wow, you used big words!" Eren exclaimed sarcastically, holding back his muffled laughter.

"Shut up, Jaeger. Look, I don't have time for this crap. Right now, we're lost. We're somewhere in Sina and I have no idea where the fuck we are... Any guidance to Mikasa's father's home?"

The line went silent for a moment and Eren sighed. "That's Mikasa's brother, not father. It would be weird if I was dating her dad. Unless that dad was Levi then I wouldn't mind... A-anyways," his cheeks began to turn a shade of red. "Where are you right now?"

"Hm... Marco, where are we right now?" Jeans voice turned away from the speaker and towards the opposite direction.

"Um..." He heard Marco hum.

"We're in the Yarckel District, basically, west Sina." Eren couldn't help the wide smile of surprise on his face. "Armin's with you guys?!"

"Of course he is. Why would he miss such an important event? That Corvette must be going to your head, you should give it to me." Jean said, his voice sounding confident.

Eren scoffed. "Yeah right, keep dreaming about it. Put Armin on the phone, I'm starting to feel stupid talking to an animal."

"Pfft, only you would talk to an animal. You are pretty dimwitted."

"Just put Armin on the phone," he waited patiently for Armin to come on the line.

"Hello, Eren?"

"Hey Armin," Eren said softly with a faint smile.

"Oh, Eren, I can't believe how long it's been since we've last seen each other! I almost thought the celebrity life corrupted you!Thank God it hasn't."

"Haha," he laughed wholeheartedly. "I know. You think I forgot about you, huh?"

"Y-yeah..." The blonde's voice died down at the end. "... I mean, I wanted to call but I just didn't know what to say. I was afraid because what if the famous life really did go to your head? What if you didn't remember me?"

"Why would I forget my own best friend?"

"I don't know... It usually happens."

"Don't doubt me. I may be living pretty, but I won't forget the people who helped me. Especially you and your grandfather... How is your grandfather? Is he coming to the reception?"

He heard Armin sigh before the line fell silent. This lasted for about a minute. "Grandpa has fallen ill. He's running a very high fever and he's asleep right now. I gave him some medicine, hot soup and some oranges before I left home. He's not going to be able to make it go the funeral tonight, I'm sorry."

"Don't worry about it, I understand. There's nothing you can do about it." Eren reassured.

"And I'm sorry about Carla. I know what its like to lose a close family member... I'm going to miss Carla and her warm hugs and kisses, they were the best."

"Tell me about it..."

"I remember when I used to get bullied and you took me home and she would patch up my injuries then make us peanut butter sandwiches with milk. Then to make me feel even more better, she would hold us tight and give us the best hugs while we watch movies. I remember you used to fall asleep like a baby when she did that."

"Yeah yeah yeah, big deal..." Armin laughed hearing the embarrassment in Eren's voice.

"I can't wait to see you, Eren. We're going to have a good time tonight."

"I know. New Years Eve is even better when its spent with your best friend and boyfriend."

"... I-I'm your boyfriend...? ... E-eren, I-I like you but not like that! I'm not ready for a relationship yet, please don't be mad!"

"W-what?! No! Not you! Not that there's anything wrong with you, but, no! I meant Levi! You're my best friend! We're almost like brothers, I can't date you, I know too much about you." The teen laughed, hoping to lighten the conversation. And once Armin began laughing, at first awkwardly, he continued.

"I guess you're right, Holidays are always fun when you spend it with the people you love."

Eren watched the door to the garage open followed by his short, raven haired partner. "H-hey, Armin, I'm gonna have to call you back. We're getting ready to leave now and Levi's coming towards the car."

"Oh, okay. Put we need directions. Where does Levi live?"

"16065 N Sinadonna Lakes."

"Yes, but how do we get there from Yarckel?"

"Dude, I don't even know where that is."

The passenger door opened and Levi got inside, quickly looking over at Eren. "Do you think you have the hang of it?"

Eren looked the wheel and shook his head. "I could use a few more minutes. But my friends Armin and Marco and their pet horse Jean are lost somewhere in the Yarckel area. Can you give them directions?"

"They're bringing a horse?" Levi arched an elegant brow, thinking he misheard Eren. "This is a funeral not a zoo."

"Not really a horse... Well, he is, but he's human. You've met him before. You know, Jean Kirschstein? Two toned hair, undercut?"

"... Oh yes, the one with the stupid hair and has a crush on Mikasa. Who could forget him?" He asked sarcastically, his voice trailing off. "That does not change the fact this isn't a zoo."

"Haha! Yeah, well, my buddy Armin is on the phone so could you talk to him for now?"

The man shrugged and took the device from him. "Hello?"

"U-um, hi... I-is this Levi?"

"Obviously,"

"Don't be rude." Eren warned.

"My name is Armin Arlert, I'm Eren's friend. It's nice to meet you! Or hear you in this case."

"Well then, Arlert, its a pleasure to meet you as well. I plan on meeting you face to face in a few minuets."

"I-I know..."

"You sound intimidated."

"I kinda am sir..."

"Don't call me sir. And there's no need to be intimidated unless you're a complete fucktard and you annoy the shit out of me. Then you can be scared shitless of me. But if you're as well rounded, intelligent and intellectual, civilized, mature human being as Eren brags you are then we'll have no problems."

"Eren really said that about me?"

"Yes, you sound surprised. Was he lying to save the hairs on your ass?"

"N-no. Not at all."

"I see then. Now, you are in Yarckel. That's the East side of town so you're way off from where I reside. Do me a favor and turn around. You're basically in the dead end of Sina, there's literally nothing there. Once you turn around, head into the main part of the Sina, where the mayor's office and the shopping district is. Once you're there, take the road that leads to the Orvud District nd continue North until you reach the bridge. Go into the far right lane and stay there until you see N. Sinadonna. So stay in the lane until you reach the first light. Up ahead on your right, there's a private community called Sinadonna Lakes. Turn in there and wait by the gate. Eren and I along with the others will be there to greet you. Understood?"

"Mhm, I understand. Thank you."

"Anytime. Its about half an hour from Yarckel to Sinadonna so I'll see you... Around... Seven thirty, close to eight perhaps?"

"Yes sir! U-uh, I mean Levi... May I call you Levi?"

"Manners and respect," he turned to Eren. "How are you friends with this kid and then there's Jean?"

"Who said I was friends with Jean?"

Levi chuckled and continued his conversation with the blonde. "Yes, you may call me Levi."

"It was good talking to you Levi, and Marco says hello. I'll see you later."

"Tell freckles I said hello and yes, I'll see you then."

Around eight-ten is when they arrived in front of Sinadonna Lakes. And the first one out of their home was of course Eren and Levi. Eren took it slow and listened to Levi's instructions. He already memorized the way in and out of the community so he didn't need directions.

Behind them followed Mikasa, then Erwin followed by Hanji, then Petra, and a people from the Garrison and Recon Agencies.

They made their way to the gate and behold, Jean's truck sat patiently on the side waiting for them. It was funny to see Jean's jaw drop when he saw the Corvette but, when he saw the Aston Martin, he was awestruck. If he didn't close his mouth soon, a swarm of flies would swoop in.

The teen couldn't hold back the smirk on his face seeing Jean's reaction. He pulled up to his window and smiled cockily.

"Take a picture, it lasts longer."

"You motherfuckin- how did you, where did you get this?! Ah! Mikasa, baby! Look at her looking pretty!"

Marco coughed slowly, tapping Jean on the shoulder with a blush on his freckled face. "I believe the correct term is beautiful."

"I agree with the freckled kid. He uses better terminology and I would much rather have him get with my sister over you. But, it's not my choice- Eren?"

The car was put in park and Eren hopped out of the car, opening the door to the backseat of the truck and crawling inside to meet Armin.

The blonde was confused. Startled when a pair of unexpected, tight arms was around his small frame crushing the life out of him. But quickly, he realized who it was and returned the bone crushing hug.

"I missed you! I'm so glad to see you!" Eren whispered.

"Aha, I didn't know you missed me this much. You're basically crying!"

Eren broke the hug and smiled at him. "Don't act like you're not crying either, I can see right through you. You're holding back a flood right now."

"Haha, you're right. I feel much more relived after being away for so long. I worried about you every so often after you stop showing up for classes. Our professors are getting worried as well. They're starting to think you dropped out."

Oh yeah! In the sudden uproar of events, college most definitely was not the top priority in his mind. Who knows how many assignments he's going to have to make up, just think about coming up with believable and reasonable excuses. Well, he can always tell them Carla passed which is true so he didn't have to lie about that...

But now with modeling, and Levi, and adjusting to his new lifestyle, it's going to be hard fitting school into the schedule. And on the flip side, just imagine the swarm of people constantly crowding him! The hallways were bad enough in between classes but the fact a worldwide, modeling sensation who's dating a man who's considered a sex symbol in America in a University in the middle of Rose was only going to make the situation worse.

Plus the fangirls... He's never going to get a brake.

Paparazzi and cameras will be everywhere documenting his every move. He'll be lucky to go to the bathroom with some privacy which was highly unlikely.

He wouldn't be surprised if his own principal asked him for an autograph.

"I haven't dropped out... Yet..."

"Yet? What do you mean by yet?"

"Well, I can't exactly-"

"Are you actually planning on dropping out of University?"

"No, I-"

"Eren, you worked hard for this and now you're just gonna throw it away? I don't expect you to return to class now but you'll have to come back to complete your Associate's degree. And then we'll start working on our Bachelor's degree just like how we planned."

"I never said I was going to drop out but that doesn't mean I'm not thinking about it. Just think about how difficult it'll be spending my years in college while I'm still a trending hash tag or whatever on Instergram!"

"Um, it's_ Instagram_." Jean mentioned.

"Whatever, I don't care. But seriously Armin, I would love to continue college with you and earn our degrees together but that's going to be a struggle now that my face is all over social media. I'm pretty sure people in Egypt know who I am by now or at least know my name."

"... I know..." Armin mumbled. "I just thought it'd be fun if we experienced college life together. You've always hated school so I thought I could change your opinion on it and show you its not all that bad once you get used to it."

Eren nodded, understanding where he was coming from.

"I'll finish college with you, don't worry. And just like in high school, we'll graduate together. I might not be at the top of my class like you but fuck it, I graduated. And that's all that matters."

"Oi, I hate to break up the little teary, motivational family reunion but we need to get going now. The sun's setting quick and it's going to be extremely dark if we don't go now." Levi called.

Eren looked at him then back at Armin who nodded for him to go ahead. The teen hugged his friend one last time before crawling out the truck and into the Aston Martin.

He looked back over and noticed Armin put down his window and was smiling brightly at him.

Feeling a lot more confident and better about himself, he shifted gears and carefully pulled out into the main street with all the cars in tow.

**~•~**

Levi was quite most of the ride. He listened to Eren ramble on about different things. Occasionally, Levi's eyes would glance back to make sure everybody was still following behind.

Same order except Jean was driving in the back of Mikasa to both hers and Levi's dismay.

Levi looked around trying to get a clue as to where they were going. He knew it was no where in Sina, and Eren didn't take the bridge that took you out of Sina. So it was either some where in Rose or beyond.

They were about two minutes into Rose. But instead of taking the using route which lead to the round about that would take you to Titan Chronical. He took a back road the headed towards the East end of Rose. He'd never taken this way before or knew this road existed.

It was a dark road. A very dark road. There were barely any street lights. At least three down the entire strip of the road. The road was surrounded by forest. Trees and bushes lined up along the road.

Winter was coming to it's climax and thank God too. The snow has melted only showing up here and there at randomly places.

Though, it still was fairly cold outside.

The trees soon disappeared and to Levi's surprise, a big dark blue ocean came into view on the right.

Saying his was surprised would be an understatement. The beach Eren was taking them to was not the same, bland beach Levi took him to a few nights ago.

...

Wait a second...

Levis head whipped towards Eren who was smiling.

Levi then smirked and snuggled back down. "You little cocksucker."

"I only sucked yours." Eren replied with a teasing smile.

The road broke off and Eren got into a the lane that curved down to parking. "How come you chose this location- other than the fact it's absolutely gorgeous at night?"

"Well," Eren started. He pulled into a parking spot, perfectly overlooking the beach area directly in the middle. He turned the car off and sat back in the seat, embracing the night.

"This place holds a lot of memories for me... Last night, while I was asleep, I started getting repressed memories again."

"Wait... So... You brought me to where you drowned...?" Levi asked slowly.

Eren nodded timidly. "That's right. That big blue bliss nearly claimed my life."

"I'm not disappointed with your selection but I'd like to know, why'd you choose a location that holds such a dark past?"

"Because it's a significant reminisce of the past. I may have feared it at once but you've shown me that it's not so bad. The ocean is a beautiful thing. But it's still evil."

Levi laughed. His laugh was like a refreshing breeze to Eren's ears. It sounded so foreign. Like ancient hieroglyphics but Eren understood. Eren's mouth fell to the floor as pink came over his cheeks at the rare sight and sound.

Levi was happy. Truly, genuinely, happy. And it nearly brought Eren to tears knowing that he was the cause of it.

It took all of Eren's willpower not to throw his arms around the shorter male and embrace him tightly.

Once Levi's laughter settled, he said, "That completely defeats the purpose of accepting the ocean."

"What are you talking about?"

"You call the ocean beautiful, you accept what has happened and move on yet you still say and quote, the ocean is evil."

"The ocean is evil! The shitty thing tried to kill me!"

"Whoa, slow your roll there kid. We only need one Levi; and that's me."

Eren giggled and smiled. His finger traced from Levi's cheekbone to his strong jawline. "You should smile more often. And laugh, especially laugh."

Levi shrugged off his words nonchalantly. "It's nothing. And I'm human too shitstain. I have emotions just like you."

"Hm, and I was starting to think I was in love with a robot." Eren grabbed the urn from Levi's lap and exited the vehicle. He made his way to Jean's truck. After about a minute once everybody was parked, they all surrounded Eren somewhat confused as to why they were at a beach at such hours.

The teen wasted no time explaining everything and within minutes every body was on board.

So a half past after eight they were all standing on the beach, waiting for further instruction from the sea-eyed boy. "Why haven't we released 's ashes yet?" Mikasa asked, her head whipped towards Eren.

"Yeah, I agree with the babe. It's not that great standing on the beach with a tux on. No matter how good I look, right babe?"

"No."

"If you're going to be an annoyance, you can leave now. I'm not putting up with your "babe" shit all night." Levi answered. His voice carameled with annoyance and slight anger.

Jean was going to say something, but Marco's hand on his shoulder prevented anything else from being said.

"I know, everybody isn't loving the idea of standing on the beach for four hours-"

"Four hours?!" Just about everyone, including Levi said that in unison.

Eren bit his bottom lip and eased out the word slowly. "Yes..."

"Why are we standing here for four hours?" Erwin asked, fixing his watch around his wrist.

"I would like to release her ashes once the clock strikes midnight signifying the new year. A new year means new beginnings and such and I would love it if my mother's first wish for the New Year is to be unrestricted and free. So I will not open this jar until midnight."

"... Well since we're not releasing her ashes until midnight, what the hell are we gonna do until then?" Jean asked.

"I don't know about you guys," Hanji called, stripping herself of the black dress that she's obviously been waiting to take off. "But the night's still young and it's New Years Eve! Woohoo!" Hanji took off towards the water, clearly not the least bit ashamed she was running out in just her undergarments.

"Hanji, stop!" Petra called out. "The water's probably cold!"

"I agree with Petra on this. Be rational Hanji, you'll get yourself sick." Erwin sighed.

"Don't waste your breath, eyebrows. She has the mental capacity of a fucking sea lion..."

The group watched as Hanji splashed around in the water.

"Well," Jean said with an exasperated sigh. "I agree with what's her name- Hanji?"

"The one and only!" She called from the ocean.

"We're going to be here for four hours so we should spend out time wisely. There's no point in standing around."

"I get your point, Jean. But we're all dressed up. We can't go in the water in formals and most of us won't strip down and dive right in..." The comment leaned more towards Marco, since his face was burning red when he said the last part.

He probably imagined everyone in their underwear in the water or something.

"You're right," Jean said, pulling off his tie. "I believe Reiner and Bert are at the dorms and I'll just tell them to bring us a swimsuit and we'll go inside."

"I'd much rather not have them not going through my drawers... I-I don't mean to be rude but last year, while we were still in our Senior year, during your sleepover, Reiner cut the holes out of my school pants and I wore them the following week. And nobody told me about the hole until gym class..."

"Aw, lighten up Marco, it was just a harmless prank!" Jean threw his arms around the slightly taller boy.

"Y-y-yes... I guess so... But I was still embarrassed... Everybody saw my boxers..."

"_Anditwashot_\- anyways... Nobody remembers that and if it makes you feel better, I'll make sure to make sure your clothes are prank free."

Marco smiled sweetly and nodded his head. "Thanks Jean, I appreciate that."

**~•~**

Most of the guest went back in their cars and did something else with their time. Some of them ran out to the store to buy beach towels and beach clothing so they could enjoy their stay.

Eren decided it would be best to isolate himself from the group and went to the further end of the beach.

Hanji's boisterous laughter was still heard from the distance but Eren didn't mind.

The only thing he needed right now was the urn. He sat down in the sand cross legged. He didn't care if it messed up his getup, that wasn't such a big deal.

He stared at the ocean, the waves softly crashing in.

"Just a few more hours mom, and you won't have to be compressed in the vace. You'll be free."

"Eren! Is that you, buddy?" Damn it. Just a few moments of peace, that's all he needed...

But his head whipped around quick recognizing the voice. A horn blew twice and pulled up in the parking spot closest to Eren.

The driver was Ymir, and next to her was obviously Christa, then in the back was Connie, Sasha, Reiner, Bert, and Annie.

The first out of the Yukon was Annie, followed by Christa, Ymir, Sasha, Connie, Bert and lastly Reiner. Ymir glared at Eren, trying to figure out why he was away from the group but quickly dropped it when her back trunk was being ravaged by Sasha and Connie.

"Yo, Connie, I got the cooler!" Sasha called.

"Alright, I got the soda and chips." The teen responded. Eren was confused at first but his face really twisted when he saw Ymir carrying a grill on the beach.

Eren was quick on his feet, rushing over to his college colleagues. "What is all this? Why the hell did you bring a grill?!... Jean!"

"For once in your life just fucking chill," Ymir said with a roll of her eyes.

"Yeah, Jean called us and explained you guys were on the beach so we thought, hell yeah! Beach party!" Sasha cried.

"I'm afraid all of this is completely unnecessary. And this will be the last time Jean will be doing anything. Do you realize what this is?" Levi asked, walking up behind Eren.

"Yeah, a New Years Eve Celebration. Or is it your 6th birthday party?" The freckled girl asked with a smug grin.

"Why you little shit. Who in the fuck do you think-"

"Aha, Y-ymir! Let's not test Levi now, okay?" Armin said,getting between the two unconsciously. "Tonight's a very important night. Yes, it is a few hours before the New Year but it's also 's funeral."

Ymir's facial expression softened slightly, but she didn't drop her hard gaze at Levi. "I see."

Christa walked over to Ymir and took her hand, calming the teen down tremendously. "We're sorry Eren. Sorry for both your loss and the intrusion. We weren't aware that it was your mother's funeral. Jean just said to bring his and Marco's swimsuit..."

"Hey! Don't throw me under the bus!"

"Do you want us to go Eren?" Sasha asked slowly, joining the group with Connie at her side.

"Yeah, bro, it's fine with us. We'll find another place to hang out. It wouldn't be right to just barge into something important." Connie said.

Levi looked at Eren, his look telling all. "I don't want you guys to go. As Armin said, Holiday's are more fun with friends. Plus, it'll give us some time to catch up together. It's been a while, a long while... I could really use the break to be 19 again."

"But you're still 19?" Jean said slowly.

"I mean, I've had no time to just hang out with you guys. So I think it'll be best if you stay... Just don't make a mess..." The last statement was directed towards Sasha and Connie. Those two were messy alone but together, they made a Garbage truck look sanitary.

**~•~**

Time was ticking away yet it still felt like time was lasting forever. Connie had an extra pair of shorts and let Eren borrow them. So their little group got to go inside the ocean.

It amazed everyone to see how comfortable Eren was floating around in the water.

He explained that Levi had taught him how to swim. He didn't get too in dept with their relationship. And his glorification of the man ended when Ymir stated, "Pedophilia is wrong, Eren. You can't have an intimate relationship with a child."

And on retort he said, "Look at Christa! The only way to turn you on would be if she said I'm not wearing any pull ups today." And Christa was pissed. However, she wouldn't let her sweet, innocent disguise drop and instead crawled to Ymir. But that didn't drop her sideways, angered glare at the teen.

Now it took a total of five minutes to calm down their little argument. Eren even laughed a little at the end of it all! How long has it been since he's argued with somebody except Jean? If it wasn't Jean, then it was Ymir. Even though he was somewhat afraid of her.

Once their argument died down, they continued to have their fun. Connie and Sasha stayed on shore to watch the grill and feed everybody.

Annie also stayed back on shore and sat in a beach chair, keeping to herself.

Armin went in the water for a while but came out to talk to Levi. So those two were settled on the beach, Armin on a beach towel while Levi stood. And Eren really wanted to know what those two were discussing.

"Eren, what are you staring at?" Marco asked slowly. Eren turned around and smiled lightly. "Oh, nothing. I was just thinking."

"About what?"

"Mm... About whether or not I should get something to eat. Now that I think about it, I should. I haven't eaten since lunch anyway."

Eren trudged out the ocean and onto the shore. Now that he thought about it, he was starving. As soon as he aroma of grilled hothogs and hamburgers hit his nostrils, his stomach begged him to get a bite.

"Ayyye, Ereen~! It's about time you brought your ass over here and get some grub!" Connie exclaimed, punching Eren's are playfully.

Sasha and Connie were the perfect team. There were two grills each set up in front of them. The duo was equipped with prongs, a spatula, and either a burger or hotdog in hand. It was humorous to see Connie wearing Sasha's cooking apron with was bright pink with bedazzled words spelling : Potato Girl. There was even a large potato in the middle of it; and to top it all off, small imagery of different junk food varied on the apron.

Sasha just stood in her white bikini top and matching bottom. When she arrived she was wearing Connie's oversized shirt but Eren assumed she didn't want to get it dirty so decided to take it off.

"What'cha want Eren? We got all the good stuff cookin' up and everybody seems to be enjoying it!"

"A cheeseburger, definitely."

"Um... Give em about... Four more minutes of so? For now, you want a hogdog?" Sasha offered. "Sure, why the hell not?"

"You want something to drink?" Connie asked, opening the cooler. "We have soda, water, and Capri-sun. Take your pick."

"Coke is fine and Doritos."

"Soooooo, Eren, how has everything been? You haven't been in class for the past few months. Have you dropped out?" Sasha asked. Eren sighed and shook his head. "No. I-I mean, I don't know yet. I'm thinking about returning but I don't see that happening."

"It's pretty boring without you there," Sasha pouted.

"We had to replace you as QB on the football team. Coach was pretty pissed about that."

"Really? Tell coach I said sorry, I've been busy lately. But I'm probably not returning to the field."

"Damn, that's a downer. We've been losing a few of out games without you," Connie laughed. "We're working our asses off. You were one of our fastest guys and had some good agility."

Eren shrugged, not saying a word.

"People are saying you dropped out because you're doing drugs."

"What?"

Sasha nodded, backing up the bald teen's statement. "They're saying ever since you've gotten fame, you started doing drugs and you're messing your life up. They're saying you're going to be in lights one day then in the trash heap the next week. Pretty harsh if you ask me."

"That was until I managed to knock em out. That'd right! I knocked those suckers into next week for trash talking you!"

Sasha cleared her throat and punched Connie's arm. "Ow!"

"You mean I, a cheerleader, managed to knock them out. While you, a football player stayed on the side and watched like a good little boy. I had to step in when they hit you" She smiled cockily. However, her smiled leaned more towards a radiant smile.

"Yeah, yeah, yeah, you don't have to tell everybody..."

"Then tell the story right."

The trio fell silent as their friends came out of the ocean and Reiner and Bert set up a beach blanket a few inches away from the grill.

"You guys finally gettin' hungry? Mama Sasha's ready to feed her young ones!"

"Ha, if we're your young ones we have a pretty ugly papa, huh?" Ymir asked with a sly grin.

"I don't know who you're talking about, but I'm the one you get your looks from," Connie stepped to the side so they could see his entire body. "Obviously, you can't achieve a rockin' body like this unless you got looks like me."

"... You're wearing your girlfriend's pink cooking apron, get over yourself." Ymir commented.

As a result, the group laughed and gathered on the blankets. They all wrapped towels around themselves to dry off and fight off the cold.

Soon, Annie joined them as well. She left her book on the beach chair and got some food. She sat down next to Reiner and Bert, listening to the conversation being thrown around.

After about twenty minutes, Mikasa wanted to meet Eren's friends as well so Eren politely introduced her to the rest of the group. She fit in rather well too. She wasn't too overbearing or talked about embarrassing things like he thought she would. She didn't come on too strong and laid off Eren. She wasn't like how she was when him and his mother were fighting and thank God for that too. His friends really did like Mikasa.

They were talking about simple things: school life and their classes, relationships, they told jokes and stories, they even played a small game of truth or dare which ended rather quickly because Reiner was dared to run his hand up Christa's thigh which resulted in a bruised lip from Ymir when got too confident.

Once that fiasco was over, Levi and Armin joined them. However, Levi did the same as Annie and simply listened on to their fun. Except, will she added in input every so often, Levi stayed silent the whole time. He sat next to Eren and rested his head against his shoulder.

And before they knew it 11:30 rolled around.

But time continued to pass by like the ocean waves.

The model saw a side of Eren that was all new to him. This was a side that showed his teenage youth. He showed Levi, hey, I'm gonna need good ten to twenty more years to mature mentally. He was laughing and joking with his small group of friends and Levi couldn't be more happy Eren got to finally be the age he truly is. Maybe he should invite Eren's friends over to their home and let them... On second thought, he didn't want to be responsible for whatever stupid shit they might do. One of them would probably get their hand stuck in a blender or their foot stuck in the toilet. How would Levi explain that to their parents?

And those two kids Connie and Sasha looked capable of eating the foundation his house is built on. If you only saw the mountain of food they're able to devour as one.

But the point is, even if Eren doesn't go back to school, he at least wants him to stay in touch with his friends. Levi can't be the only person Eren sees everyday. That isn't healthy for him.

At least once in a while or every weekend or so, he needs to visit them.

Eren's been forced to sacrifice his college life and friendships just to spice up Levi's modeling status. And while he's very grateful Eren agreed to go through all of this, Levi needs to give something back in return. This and even more is to come to Eren.

And while the teen is still adapting to his new life, why not interpret his old one into it? What harm will that do?

As long as his friends won't do anything stupid or around Levi or his belongings. That's where he has to draw the line.

"So uh... Armin... What did you and Levi talk about?" Eren whispered to the blonde.

He looked back, his face drawing a blank for a few seconds. "U-uh... Well nothing special in particular, he's just told me that he thinks I'm a good influence to you. He thinks you should continue your education and such. That's about it."

"That's it?"

"Yes, that's all. Why do you ask?"

"Because you're staring at me and smiling." Eren chuckled to himself. He watched Armin's face drain and his smile die quickly.

"Did I say something wrong...?" Eren asked slowly.

"Uhahaha, nope! I-I-I wasn't staring at you! Nor smiling! Why would even make such an assumption like that?! How would you even know it's because of what Levi said because Levi didn't say anything! I swear!" If there was one thing Armin wasn't good at, it was lying.

Armin's skilled in reading and coming up with diverse plans and comprehending stuff quickly and off the top of his head. If anything, Armin's a genius. But the one skill that the teen lacks in completely is straight up lying to somebody's face.

And this is what would get them into trouble when they were kids.

Eren's mother would never get the truth out of Eren so she would interrogate Armin until he cracked.

If Eren ever robbed a bank, he would let all of Pakistan know instead of Armin because he would choke under the pressure and spill the truth or give it away.

But Eren decided to play it cool and act as if it was nothing.

"Oh, well, are you sure he said nothing?"

The blonde nodded his head vigorously, his locks wailing up and down. "That's right! Not a single word!"

Eren shrugged and smiled lightly. "Okay, I believe you."

"Really?! Are you serious?!"

"That's right."

Armin let out a huge breath. That's another thing that would get them too. He would always hold his breath and let it out at the end.

"Eren, how much longer?" Marco asked, sufficing a yawn. "I'm pretty worn out for today."

"Yeah, usually Marco's the one falling asleep first,"

"Come on, don't embarrass me like that..." Jean laughed and laced his arms around Marco, smiling brightly and he lifted Marco off his feet and swung him.

"Don't be, there's no shame in that. I'm getting tired myself. We've all had a long day." Eren reassured. "And its..." He checked his phone, briefly stunned by the time. "Only seven more minutes until New Years..."

He turned his head, looking up and his eyes immediately meeting Levi's. Eren set his phone down on the blanket and looked down at the urn tucked between his legs.

A hand extended out to him and when he looked up, his heart fluttered and pattered against his chest. Levi towered him, (for once) and extended his hand out. The smile on his face was soft, something not manipulative or maniacal. It wasn't a smirk either. But an actually legitimate smile. I was small. Possibly smaller than Levi. But it was still there and inviting.

Eren couldn't help but return the smile and take it hand, allowing the model to pull him to his feet. "Just a few more minutes and we can start a new year, Eren."

The teen nodded. "I know. And I can't wait! I have butterflies in my stomach...!"

"It's probably my child,"

"What?"

"What?" Levi repeated like nothing.

"Did you just say-"

"I don't know what the fuck you're talking about."

"Hey, Eren! You got a match or something?" He heard Connie call. He turned around to see them setting up fireworks at the end of the parking lot. And Ymir, Reiner, Annie, and Mikasa were still carrying fireworks from the back of Ymir's car.

While Sasha, Connie, Christa, Armin, Jean, Marco and Bert stayed on the far end of the parking lot setting them up.

"One match isn't going to light all of this, idiot," Ymir said coldly, handing a sparkler to Christa. "What happened to the box of matches you bought earlier? How in the hell did you light the grill?"

"I had a box of matches," Connie confirmed. "However... I er said it was a full box of matches, Ymir, you should listen~"

"Don't tell me what to do, baldie." She sneered.

"You guys are literally taking this way too far..." Levi mumbled, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Isn't it illegal to use fireworks without a permit?" He asked, his question directed towards Ymir.

She shot him a dark look as she walked towards the back trunk of her vehicle.

"First of all, my girlfriend's parents have a permit so automatically we got our hands on a permit, so technically, it's legal. And second, why are you complaining? I thought kids liked fireworks, are the pooper of the party? Should we put you in the corner for being such a downer?"

"I'm not taking your bullshit. I'm fucking 23, you sourass. What's got you in a shitty mood? Blondie didn't give you your-"

"Levi, stop!" Eren interrupted, squeezing his hand tightly as a warning. Levi didn't have a filter and neither did Ymir. And those two going at it would be the start of World War 3.

Eren couldn't ignore the glare he was receiving from Christa. It was making him slightly uncomfortable. Eren has always seen Christa as phony and he has the oddest feeling the,_ "I'm your typical, sweetheart seen as a goddess in everybody's eyes,"_ persona is all an alter-ego. He doesn't believe Christa is truly what she's showing on the outside.

"Does anybody have something to lit this with?" Sasha asked.

"Here," Levi called. He walked up towards the group with Eren in tow and tossed his lighter to Sasha. "I don't believe in trusting any of you kids with a lighter, let alone fireworks..."

"Don't worry! We'll be alright, we've been doing this for years! It's tradition, really."

"I can't believe anybody would trust you guys with explosives..." Levi mumbled.

"Two more minutes guys!" Jean called.

Levi sighed. "Mikasa, can you spot them please?" The woman nodded and began to help them finish setting up the fireworks.

Eren began smiling like a madman. He jumped up and down and paced back and forth. So close. So close to his mother being free! He couldn't wait!

No longer will she have to be burden in that little jar!

"Those butterflies getting to you again?" Levi asked with a half smile.

"Mhm," Eren squealed.

"One minute!" Jean announced again.

Wind blew softly, occasionally picking up. Perfect. Everything was going as planned! Exactly what Eren needed!

Eren was bouncing in place. His happiness could not be contained.

"Fifteen, fourteen," Everybody chanted. Eren's smile was growing bigger and bigger as the Numbers counted down. Who knew a counter down would be music to his ears?

"Seven, six,"

_Come on, come, on..._

"Five, four,"

_Come on, come on, come on..._

"Three, two-"

"Happy New Year!" Eren's voice was above all. He shouted those three words. As Mikasa lit one firework, she passed down the lighter to allow everybody else to light their own.

Fireworks whistled loudly as they rocked to the air. And as the fireworks skyrocketed, Carla's restricted ashes were now set free, dancing in the wind, moving on to a happier place.

Cheers enclosed him, as well as the sounds of the fireworks exploding happily in the sky. Bright sparkles of orange, red, pink, yellow, purple, white and blue collided together. A vivid display of an array of colors and designs lit of the beach resulting in cheers from the viewers as well as the occasional "Ooh," and "Ahh."

"Oi, Eren," a familiar voice said. He turned to face Levi only to met by a pair of lips. He was caught off guard completely confused by the unexpected gesture of intimacy.

And then it hit him.

Levi was Eren's New Years Kiss.

Damn it, he completely forgot about the kiss at midnight. But it seems like Levi didn't...

Their kiss deep end and their lips glided smoothly over each other. If it wasn't for Eren's lack of air, they wouldn't have broken the kiss.

"Why'd you stop?" Levi asked.

"I couldn't breathe. I forgot to breathe," Eren giggled. "I-I forgot about the New Years Kiss thing... Considering the fact I always kissed my mom on the cheek when it came down to it... Have you been thinking about it all night?"

"Ha, nope. I actually forgot as well. That was until I saw that girl... Yami and the blonde start making out... So I guess I have to thank her..."

"Her name's _Ymir_. And her girlfriend is Christa. And it's not just them kissing too. Sasha hopped on Connie and wrapped her legs around him and kissed him like she was in a movie! Kinda cute if you ask me, we should try that."

"No, but keep dreaming."

"Why is Jean kissing Marco's cheek?" Eren said slowly, confused why Jean was sitting in Marco's lap furiously kissing his cheek.

"I think Mikasa kissed freckles on the cheek and now desperate over there is trying to get the reminiscence of it."

"N-no, because she kissed both of them on the cheek... And that's not the cheek Mikasa kissed Marco on."

"Whatever, we all know he has a thing for freckles anyway," Levi said with a roll of his eyes. "I hope his New Year's Resolution is to-"

"Aha! That's what I'm forgetting! Thanks for reminding me Levi! Okay, okay, okay, let me go first! To start the 2014 New Year, my first resolution is to be a happier person this year. And I want to make sure our relationship gets even better! I want to make sure you're happy and my friends are happy, and myself. I want to try to return to school but I'm not too sure about that... And I want to find my mother's killer... and make them suffer the same way I did... And the last thing... I want to go to your mother's grave as well... Now your turn, Levi."

Levi was at a loss for words. Not only did that escalate quickly but the brat actually brought his mother into this... He was surprised he remembered she's no longer on this Earth...

Levi swallowed, taking Eren's hand. At first he opened his mouth to say something but later closed it. Instead, he brushed Eren's locks and kissed his forehead. "You want to meet my mother? What kind of resolution is that?"

"My resolution," Eren answered. "Now what's yours? And don't pull that Thanksgiving thing again where you acted like you weren't grateful for me only to take my virginity in your car."

"I'm so happy you remembered your first time... And you brought that upon yourself."

"Stop stalling! We can't be here all night, you'll have to carry me home like prince charming."

Levi snickered and laughed. "Okay, okay, enough with the jokes. My resolutions are to... Make sure you're happy, concentrate more on our relationship, maybe I should relax a little bit more. Um... I should adopt another cat so Isabel can mate. We'd have more "demon" cats for you to befriend."

"I swear to God, if you do that I will leave."

"I'll make sure the kittens pick up your scent and follow."

They both laughed and hugged once more. They headed back down to the beach and sat down on the blanket once more, simply staring up at the night sky decorated with he remains of fireworks.

Many people walked around the sparklers. His friend's laughter could be heard from a mild away mixed in with Hanji's laughter. Even Erwin and Petra were having a good time conversing and lighting sparklers, snakes and strobes.

While Eren and Levi sat comfortably on the beach blanket, snuggled up with one another. Eren rested on Levi will the man held stroked his hair as he fell asleep slowly.

"Levi," Eren mumbled.

"What, you intolerable brat?" He asked teasingly.

"I'll get to go to your mom's grave, right?"

Levi remained silent. He continued stroking his hair and knew the brat was just waiting for an answer. Again, not an expected Resolution. And it only made Levi wonder why the kid all of a sudden wants to meet his mother when he doesn't even know her name!

"Yes, Eren, you will." He said finally.

"You promise?" He asked.

Levi only smiled gently and whispered, "Yes, Eren, I promise."

* * *

A/N: My writers block... So much has came up! The one thing that really kept me from finishing this chapter in time is mostly my personal life. So much has just the time span of a month! And I'm prayer April will be my salvation. My friend has been depressed so I'm helping her through that, I have school work, testing is such a bitch, and overall, not finding the right words for this chapter. I also started AMV editing just because I really want to make those cool looking AMV's like other YouTube users. So, the whole editing thing was planned for the month.

As a result of the events of last month, I never realized how much I truly wrote! I didn't mean to type this much but it just happened. I managed to finish this last night some time around 3:20 am. So take this long ass chapter as a thank you for being patient and a sorry for being extremely late.

Thank God for Spring Break! How is everybody's Spring Break so far?

Anyways my minicakes, I have to go to bed before I pass out. Thanks for all the reviews, follows, favorites! Thank all of you very much!

Review Response:

ShouraiLink: The babe thing is suitable. And oh my gosh, I keep tugging at your heart strings! Everyone keeps saying I'm playing with their feels! Thank you for reviewing as always~

PurpleOmpski: I had mixed emotions about this chapter as well. It really did make me cry while I was writing her note when she wrote, "I can't wait to see you get married and bring home children." Jesus, can you imagine grandma Carla... Excuse me while I find a bucket to cry in.

pinky chan: I love how they act around each other. And you're right, a vulgar, playful, intimate relationship is what I was aiming for around these few chapters. Um... I'm sorry this chapter took almost two moths to finish *hides in shame* thanks for reviewing.

BigBossandScorpius: Thank you! And uggh, I know my spelling and grammar is killer... I'm still adapting to the English language so give it a little bit more time. I've actually improved more because of fan fiction and hopefully when I type out my next story, spelling and grammar won't be much of a big issue. Anyway, thank you liking this story. It means a lot.

Hibary-Hiwatari: Haha, yeah, I know. Hopefully, I can get back into the groove of writing again and make an amazing chapter! Don't think I've forgotten about Auruo, but for now, I'd like to focus more on Eren and Levi. The story is coming to it's end, a few more chapters to go, actually. And by the end, I guarantee by the end, the Auruo situation will be situated and he will be dealt with. And yes, bubbly, adorable Eren is back and Levi is really dropping his sardonic bastard mask and molding into a happier person.

AnnaMay Girl: I'm glad to hear you're enjoying it. The sadness is probably gone by now. I'm going to keep the story very happy until the end. Thank you for reading it.

Guest: You're welcome :) thanks for leaving your input on it.

percydeathrotdeathdragonslay: You're welcome. And yeeeah, this is the worst writer's block I had typing up this story... And thanks for the kind words.

iliveformangaandanime: I can't lie. Levi's dialogue comes like a breeze to me. Because everyday, I use profanity and sarcasm, so writing Levi is like writing the male, shorter, more skilled, better looking... Male version of myself. Hanji takes my silly, playful side, while Eren is my stubborn, somewhat emotional, needy side. Ymir is just a rewrite of my bitchy side, and Jean is just my failed attempts at flirting. Those are the character's I can write swiftly and easily. And, It's about time somebody recognized that song *makes whale noises and rolls around* yeah, Fragile is one of my major inspirations for this story, most specifically writing Eren and Levi interaction during the time when his mom died. To me, it described Eren perfectly as the Vitim and Levi trying to help build him back after realizing he's basically hit the deep end.

hidansbabe530: Thanks for reviewing everything! Wow, I was literally so surprised to see that. Like, honestly, thank you! Um... Levi is only paying Eren's tuition. And in response to your review on chapter 5, what do you think happened to his mom? I'd like to hear it.

Ern Estine 13624: Thank you very much!

Shane: it vexes me as well. The reason why Levi can't take matters into his own hands is because Auruo will put either Eren or other close relatives at harm. He was given a warning and instructions. If Levi is to go against it, somebody else will be harmed and Levi doesn't want to risk it. He's not going to take Auruo's warnings kindly and brush them off like they're nothing.

Yvonne Park: Thank you! And I will continue until the end!

Phantomhive666: Best SnK fix is probably too much of an overstatement... But that's just me. Thank you for your opinion on it, I'm greatful to hear that it's a best for you.


	28. Chapter Twenty Seven: Apple Tart

Eren hated to admit it but he was glad to be back in Erwin's office, waiting for instructions from the blonde man. He sat in the cozy chair, staring out the giant window over looking the streets and people below.

He waited for Erwin to come into his office. Currently, he was talking with one of his clients in a meeting across the hall. He should be done in a few more minutes. For now, he waited for Levi to finish prepping him a beverage.

Just earlier this morning, they got a call from Erwin calling them back into work. For once, it was Eren answering the call and waking Levi up.

Today marked a total of four and a half weeks after Carla's funeral. And Eren was more than determined to make an improvement on his life. Even if that meant waking up earlier or taking responsibility. Slender arms crossed snuck up behind him and placed a cup of tea in front of him. Then the chair next to him became occupied with none other than Levi. The shorter male took a long sip of his tea and sunk back into the chair.

Eren sighed and looked at his partner. "I didn't want tea, you know. I'm not an old lady like you."

Levi narrowed his eyes as he took sips of his drink. Moving the cup away from his lips he said, "Stop being an ungrateful shit and drink up. You need something soothing to calm your hyperactive ass down. You woke up this morning with a shit eating grin. You honestly freaked me the fuck out."

Eren giggled and picked up his cup, staring at the drink.

"I added sugar."

"Thank God. I'm not like you who can drink theirs unsweetened," he drank some slowly.

"Who said my tea is unsweetened?" Eren's head turned quick. He nearly choked on his tea. "You're drinking if with sugar?!"

"And milk and honey. It's green tea." Levi confirmed. Eren was awestruck. And there he goes with that toothy grin again. And Levi only shrugged it off.

"You don't like unsweetened tea anymore?"

"I like tea. _All_ tea."

"Pfft, I know that. Levi not drinking tea is like a day without cleaning."

"That sounds like hell. Especially with you and Isabel in the house."

Eren's mouth was open and he was going to say something until the door opened, and in walked Erwin. "Eren, Levi, it's good to see your faces in my office once again," the blonde greeted.

Levi scoffed and rolled his eyes. "You make it sound like we just got sent to the principal's office."

Erwin chuckled a little and took a seat in front of duo, eyeing their cups. "You're drinking sweetened tea?"

"Really? Way to state the obvious. Anything else you want to solve?"

Erwin's response was a raise of a thick brow.

"That's what I thought." Levi muttered, continuing to enjoy his drink. "I'm just curious as to why you're not dishing crude insults."

"Fuck you."

"Tasteless and pathetic. You're getting rusty Levi,"

Levi scoffed. "Tasteless and pathetic like your choice in women."

"Actually, I just took a actress from Spain out to dinner last night. You know, Adonia Castro."

"I will not hesitate to choke you."

"Can you even reach my neck?"

"I'm leaving."

Erwin chuckled. "Levi, come back here. It's been a while since we've talked. Good to know we can't have a civilized conversation without it escalating."

"Look eyebrows, what have you called us here for? Obviously not a tea party because if this was I'd be a lot more pleasant."

"I suppose you're right. However, I mean what I say about your retorts are awfully stale. Anyway, before Levi attempts to choke me - good luck with that - I've called you before me because due to your hiatus during the winter season, we've had to replace you for the winter issues. During that time block, I've noticed a slight decrease in our sales. Also, you're trending numbers have went down drastically."

Erwin shook his computer mouse, signalling the monitor to click back on. With a few clicks, he turned to the duo and said, "Sales have fallen 0.3 percent. Eren you're number 128 and Levi you're 146. And that's in the top one thousand. Your shared hash tag Ereri is at 67. Now, I've come to the conclusion that the fans are seeing you as one tag instead of two completely separate hash tags; they're seeing you as one person opposed to one. The fan base has given you the name Ereri, which I believe is a combination of Eren's name and your _birth _name," Erwin paused, adding emphasis on birth name towards the end making Levi roll his eyes.

"From now on, you're no longer Levi and Eren but Ereri. I'd instruct you to pay attention to the tag Ereri instead of your own tags."

"Ereri..." Eren tried, his mouth adjusting to the new word. "It sounds alright, I kinda like it. It's cute."

"Its weird." Levi said blankly. "I mean, it's alright. It's nothing stupid like Caribbean Gray or some dumb shit like thst-"

"Caribbean Gray?" Erwin questioned. Eren looked at the older male with a confused arched of his brow too.

"It's just some stupid shit the fans recognizes us by. Eren's eyes are Caribbean and mine are gray. Put them together, Caribbean Gray."

"Aha, that sounds so cute! Caribbean Gray! We can name our kid that! I-I mean cat! God, I hate cats. I actually meant our dog."

"I don't have a dog." Levi said in a matter of fact tone.

"And I heard that little statement." Erwin said.

The color drained from Eren's face as he pushed his tea away. "I didn't mean it like that..."

"When's the wedding?"

"Never!" Both Eren and Levi shouted.

"Hah, you could've had me fooled."

Eren groaned internally and he stood up. "I'm going to the restroom."

"A wave of nausea coming over, Eren?" Erwin called.

"I told him those butterflies are a sign." Levi joined.

"A sign of what? I'm not giving birth to Satan's spawn." He bit back bitterly.

"Yeah, but you certainly swallowed Satan's sperm," the cup was to his lips so the words came out muffled.

Eren's face burned red as he exited the office, slamming the door behind him. Levi and Erwin shared their laughs and continued to taunt the teen behind his back. Once their laughter died down, Erwin wasted no time to say, "So the rumors are true? You and Eren are in a committed relationship?"

Levi nodded slowly and finished the last bit of his tea. "Mhm. You're right. Those rumors are confirmed and can come to an end. They are true. Eren and I have settled down into a relationship."

"It's about time you changed your lifestyle a little. Eren has been quite an effect on you. At Ms. Jaeger's funeral, a few workers of the Recon noticed how close and personal you were with Eren. You two were very close; _intimate_ even."

Levi didn't say anything. He wasn't sure how to respond because quite frankly, Levi had no idea what that even meant. He wondered just how much his coworkers knew, heard, witnessed. What if they saw the kiss at midnight? While in thought, Levi's face continued to change to match what he was thinking till finally, it fell blank and he set down his empty tea cup.

"Intimate, yes." He looked Erwin dead in the eye. "I like Eren. A lot. And there's a lot I'm willing to give for him. That's rare to hear me say because I fucking hate people. But Eren... I don't know, he makes me feel disgusting inside, I'm not too good with this lovey-dovey, kissy shit."

"Kissy, you know how to do."

Levi's lips thinned. By the look in his eye, he urged Erwin to continue. "We all saw the tongue action Levi."

"I have public decency. It's not like I tongue fucked his throat." Levi deadpanned.

Suddenly, the door opened, and in poked not Eren, but Hanji. She was panting, obviously out of breath. Her glasses sat crookedly on her nose. "Petra fucked up the thingy!" She exclaimed.

"Hanji, what in God's name are you talking about?" Levi asked, his lips thinning.

"I mean it as I said, Petra fucked up the thingy!"

"What the hell is a thingy? Be specific Hanji, nobody knows what you're talking about."

"The schedule silly!"

"How did she mess up the schedule?" Erwin asked, settling back in his seat with his legs crossed.

"Well, this morning, while she was taking pictures of Nanaba, she went over the schedule by an entire hour by mistake because of a costume malfunction. She only has about... An hour or so to take pictures of you and Eren for the February issue. So we need you down stairs right now."

Levi glanced at Erwin and stood. "Thanks for the chat, eyebrows, but I'm afraid I'll be on my way."

Erwin nodded. "Show him the way out, Hanji," Erwin dismissed, using his hand to usher the raven out.

**~•~**

"Where's Eren?" Levi asked mindlessly. Almost as if it was automatic. He walked next to the taller woman as she tapped away on her phone.

"I grabbed him when he exited the bathroom. He's already downstairs and getting dressed." Levi nodded and pressed the button for the elevator. He wasn't one who enjoyed riding the elevator. Especially with Hanji of all people. Since she was usually one to get overly excited in the elevator.

But this will do for now. Hopefully, they won't get caught in the elevator this time...

Once they entered the elevator, Hanji dressed the button for the third floor and Levi watched as the floor numbers continued to click as the floors rolled by. Once they reached the the third floor, they walked out into the spacious hallway.

Hanji walked a pace or two faster than Levi and she made a sharp right leading into another hallway and opened the second door on the left. They entered and immediately, Hanji's voice sounded. "Oh hello Petra~ how is my favorite ginger today~"

She watched the woman run around rapidly making sure everything is going as planned on their crammed schedule. She laughed quickly, taking in a short intake of breath. "I've been better." She called.

She paced passed then and quickly paused in her tracks, rewinding her actions and turning to smile at Levi. "Good you're here. I uh... I need you to head around back and get dressed then hurry and get your hair and makeup finished."

"Where's Eren?"

"He's doing makeup right now. Please hurry." She continued with her energy consuming task and continued on.

"Welp," Hanji slammed her arms around Levi and held him close. He scowled as she smiled. "Better get to work, shorty!"

He pushed him off her and marched towards the back. He knocked on the dressing room before entering. "Oi, Eren, are you-" he stopped dead in his tracks. His face twisting into utter confusion.

"M-mikasa?" Were his eyes deceiving him? Sitting in a salon chair was Mikasa. Two people surrounded her. The hair stylist who was putting curls in the end of her raven hair, and a makeup artist, who was dabbing dark shadow on her eyelids. She sat quietly. Once she heard Levi's voice, she opened her already finished and and said. "Hello, brother."

"What are you doing here...?" He asked slowly, entering the room. However, he did not close to the door. Usually, Mikasa was one who hated when people left the door open, but decided to let it slide and not make a big deal out of nothing.

"Nobody informed you?" She asked. The makeup artist finished her eye with one last dab, taking two more looks to admire her work before cleaning up her area.

"On what exactly?"

"The model you were originally supposed to be modeling with called out. So I'm kind of a last minute understudy. I was in town when I got the call about... Thirty minutes ago."

Levi raised an impressed brow. "I thought you didn't want to get thrown into the celebrity life. What's with the sudden change in mindset?"

She allowed the makeup artist to pick up her hand and began painting her nails a deep, engaging crimson.

"Petra desperately needed someone. Plus, I don't mind volunteering just this one time. However, I will not engage with the celebrity lifestyle nor will I adapt to it. Hopefully, my name and face will no longer be remembered in about a month tops."

Levi nodded slowly, understanding her request. "I see. You look gorgeous, by the way. Red suits you perfectly."

"Red has always been my favorite color. It reminds me of when we were younger and you stabbed my kidnappers in the kidneys, and the shock was so intense it rendered them unable to scream for their life."

Her voice was so flat out. Monotone, emotionless, cold. Freezing. It made Levi chuckle hearing those words, the good old days revisiting. However, the people dolling up Mikasa seemed... Rather... Imidated or... Frightened by her unexpected, violent words. Levi looked them both dead in the eye, both of their heads snapping back to their task utterly terrified.

"That story isn't true," Levi lied, adding a small laughter to lighten up the thickening atmosphere. The man finishing Mikasa's hair chuckled awkwardly while the woman doing her nails tried to ignore Levi.

"Anyway, it's good to know you're here. But, I believe I should be on my way. See you out there."

**~•~**

When Eren saw Levi, he was surprised. A little turned on, but overall, surprised.

Waist down, he was dressed in pressed, prim black slacks. Hugging at the hips and thighs.

Waist up, he was nude. Not a single shirt on his small, but built stature.

There wasn't much makeup added to his face. Only thing used was something that helped accentuate his cheek bones and jawline.

Not like he really needed it... But, it certainly did make a slight difference. Eren prayed to the Gods that as Levi aged his jawline will take on the defined effect the makeup did.

He didn't notice when Levi snuck up behind him and wrapped his arms tenderly around his waist, digging his chin into his shoulder blade.

"Ah! O-oh, Levi, I didn't see you there..." He mumbled.

"That's strange... Especially considering you were just staring at me. That's like standing in a mirror and not seeing somebody sneak up behind you."

"Yeah, but there's no mirror. So that doesn't count."

Levi placed a quick peck on his cheek and began to walk off. "Whatever you say brat."

"Levi! Eren! I need you now. Hurry up, hurry up!" Petra ushered them over to where Mikasa stood, waiting patiently for further instructions. She stood in a nude strapless bra that hung lowly on her chest and matching shorts which also hung lowly on her hips.

Her toned, abdominal and fit physique on display.

Alrighty now, let's get started. We don't have that much time so let's make this work. First, I want Mikasa and... Levi. " they both walked in front of a dark gray backdrop and Petra angled the camera closer, adjusting the frame.

"Can we get some more lighting on the upper right corner? Thanks," She said. "This is supposed to be a romantic shoot, so if you get uncomfortable just let me know. I mostly want headshots done, so I need this as intimate as possible. Mikasa, I want you to do most of the work. Levi, for this issue, Mikasa and Eren are going to be the main focus."

"Um... Petra? Is this like... A competition between Mikasa and I?" Eren asked.

"Oh, no, not at all. What would make you think such an accusation?"

"Well, you said the main focus is Mikasa and I... Wouldn't that mean only one of us is gonna make the cover?"

"There are two separate magazines getting released this month, doubling sales to make up for lost profit in the past months. So, one cover will be you and Levi, the next, Mikasa and Levi."

"Wouldn't that mean both issues are the same except the cover?" Eren question.

"Nope. Not at all. In fact, both issues are completely different; inside and out. Different articles, topics, tips, advice and cover on the copies. So you have nothing to worry about."

"O-oh... I guess that makes sense." Eren half smiled.

Petra's head whipped towards her camera and she positioned her camera. Mikasa looked at Petra then at her brother figure, her eyes immediately falling before she locked her arms around his neck, the inner part of her elbow settling on the back his neck while her arm rested on her shoulder. Nuzzling her chin into the crook of his neck, she turned her head away from the camera.

How many years since they've held each other like this? About... Seven, maybe eight years at max. The last time Mikasa held her brother like this was when they were on the street and she killed a man who tried to molest her while she was walking home. The smell of metallic, nauseating blood assaulted her nostrils and clung to her like perfume. That night, Mikasa realized what she was truly capable of. She concluded that everybody held the key of life and death in their hand; it's like a coin. Two sides of the same coin. And, you can manipulate said coin to your will.

It was devastating a thirteen year old girl had to open her eyes and realized such. It's only more devastating knowing that she enjoyed it.

She thought she was sick, twisted, dirty. _Paranoid_ even.

But when she fathomed she protected herself and she has the choice and urge to do so, she understood she had she no longer had to depend on anybody. Because she has nobody to blind her from damaging, frightening life. She was no longer shadowed from the world. She has to open her eyes and realize it's only her. She has to be the one to get stuff done. Her. Not her mother, not her father, not Levi, not Isabel or Farlan.

Only Mikasa.

"Mikasa," Petra's voice penetrated her eardrums, making her head lift and turn towards her.

"Yes?"

"Change your pose." she commanded. Mikasa nodded once and placed her head on the other side of Levi's neck, this time, her head towards the camera. The only thing visible was her hair, falling onto her shoulders and her plump, red lips. She placed her hand on Levi's biceps.

"Hm... Mikasa, pull your bra up a little, so it'll push up."

The woman did as told and the picture was taken.

This went on for a little bit longer. And the last photo was possibly Mikasa's favorite. Levi's back was turned, showing off his tattoo. Her arms were crapped over his neck and falling over his tattoo. Her head was tilted slightly to the side and she held a confident yet flirtatious look. She smirked softly, still giving off that playful edge. While her eyes were lidded and hungry. Black, calming eyes stared into the camera making Petra smile.

"Perfect! Stunning work, Mikasa! Now, Eren, it's your turn."

Eren casted a side ways glance at Mikasa then smiled. He walked up to Levi. "We have about forty more minutes so let's make this quick." Eren started off giving off coy, sweet expressions. But as time passed by like their poses, their charisma together only got stronger.

One pose, Levi was all over Eren. The next, vise versa. Their last pose together was focused on Levi. His chest was pressed against Eren's and he stood on his tiptoes to bite Eren's lips. Pulling back about half an inch softly. His dark eyes mimicking Mikasa's as he stared at the camera, more dangerously however. While her glare was flirtatious and elegant, his was seductive and alluring. As if pulling the viwer to the dark side.

"Alright, good work everybody. And we have..." Petra glanced at her phone. "A good ten minutes left. I have to set up for my next client. Thank you guys for coming, especially you Mikasa in such short notice. I'll see you guys around~"

**~•~**

"Petra seemed... Rushed. Like she wanted us to leave as soon as possible..." Eren mumbled. He sat in the front seat, absentmindedly playing with the spoon for his vanilla bean ice cream.

Levi shrugged, softly rubbing his temples. Already he had a headache and it was barely noon. "That's plausible. However, like she said, she has another client coming in and her schedule is tight. So I would expect she would be rushed."

"Yeah but..." He scooped some ice cream and ate a spoonful, the cold substance melting against his tongue before he swallowed it. "Usually, she would give us a treat or something sweet at the end.. She didn't this time..."

"You think she's neglecting you just because she didn't give you anything to crave your sweet tooth?"

"Mhm, that pretty much sums it up." Eren confirmed, shoving another spoonful of ice cream into his mouth and moaning in delight.

"Good to know that ice cream is giving you more sexual pleasure than I've given you in our relationship. What does that ice cream have that I don't?"

"It's vanilla." Eren smiled. "However, I like you just a little bit better."

"Good to know you're enjoying it. And I bought you fucking ice cream to make up for your lack of sweets. What are you complaining about?"

"It's only a kid's size ice cream! I didn't even get a toy..."

"You're a four year old trapped in a nineteen year olds body. I swear it scares me to know I like you... Let alone sleep with you. Also, you shouldn't be complaining, it's drizzled in chocolate. Think of it as a special treat. I don't like to give you so much sweets."

Eren smiled brightly. Bright enough for someone who's blind to see.

"I said thank you. And it'll only make me sweeter. Now, to get you to eat some to lighten you up."

"I don't want any."

"Open up."

"No."

"Open."

"Leave me alone."

"Open your fucking mouth!" Eren yelled unintentionally. Levi only looked up him, utterly confused by his unexpected outburst.

"Sorry..." He mumbled, his cheeks burning. "Open your mouth... Please...?"

Reluctantly, Levi did as told. Goosebumps dancing on his skin when the cold touched his teeth. Sweet. Very sweet. It was funny that Eren truly believed this would make Levi happier. It only made his tongue thirst for something to counteract the sweetness.

He picked up his coffee and drank some. When he came to a red light, he slowed down and came to a complete stop before looking at his companion. "This is why I hate feeding you sweets. You get angrier when you don't get your way. You spoiled shit."

"I didn't mean to yell at you, but you didn't listen. So if anyone's a spoiled shit, it's you." He crossed his arms like a child but still gobbled down on his remaining ice cream.

Levi truly wasn't up to argue with Eren, especially while he was going through his sugar high. While sugar was in his system giving him more energy than he needs, he will just keep his mouth shut. Because arguing with a sugar induced Eren was like trying to win an argument against a brick wall.

Once he light changed, they drive down the streets and to an intersection before making a right.

"Where are we going?" Eren asked, licking the cream off of the spoon then started on the empty carton. "I have to pick up some groceries for dinner. So we're headed to the supermarket."

"But we're headed towards Shiganshina, not Sina..."

Levi nodded. "Sina doesn't have the spices I need for tonight's dish. And the seafood is more crisp and neoteric. You would think Sina would have fresher seafood. But, it's understandable Shinganshina would have much better tasting and organic fish. Especially considering the ocean is pretty close."

"Seafood in Shiganshina is the best! It's cheaper than meat too... And look at you. You should be the woman of the household."

"And you be the man? You can't even stomach ice cream without becoming immature."

"That's not true!" Eren exclaimed.

Levi rolled his eyes and eased on the gas.

~•~

When they reached the supermarket, Eren was the first one out the car and into the cool, brisk air.

Eren was the first inside. Levi was falling behind because he had to lock his car, throw away the empty ice cream carton and get a cart. Why does he still put up with Eren?

Eren stood in the middle of the fruit isle, much to Levi's surprise, with a bag in hand picking at the giant red apples. His eyes scanned over the giant red fruit looking for only the perfect ones. When Levi came up to him with a shopping cart, Eren's head whipped around. "I want apples, can our dinner have apples in it? I haven't had these in a while."

Levi nodded. "As long as it isn't sweet."

Once Eren picked a variety of red and green apples, they moved onto the vegetable section. "I need onions, tomatoes, thyme, garlic, bay leaves, red and green bell pepper and some lemon."

"Hm..." Eren said looking around, spotting the items. "Anything else?"

"Yes, but I'll get the rest. Do you remember what to get?"

"Mhm, of course I do. Don't go too far, okay Levi?" Eren ran and started at the hill of assorted peppers. "How much of each thing do you need?"

"About... Three to four at max."

"Got it." Levi watched Eren pick up the peppers with a soft smile on his face. He didn't mean to stare down the teen but it just happened. The kid was always ecstatic and optimistic. It made Levi elated to know he had such a positive influence around him.

Levi didn't want to go too far as Eren suggested so he got the rest of the ingredients he needed. Cheyenne peppers, parsley, cherry tomatoes, Colin, leeks- wait...

"Colin?"

A few feet away from him was the small orphan boy trying to reach the cherry tomatoes. Of course he was still wearing his oversized "Harry Potter" coat and his glasses were sitting slightly crookidly on the bridge of his nose.

The little reminded him too much of Hanji. It was uncanny. Both personality and looks. Even though his personality was a little more... Sane than the scouting agent. The little boy looked over and smiled brightly seeing Levi. He ran up to him and hugged his head. "Kitty!" He cried.

"Kitty? Who the fu- who is Kitty?"

"You!" Colin smiled, looking up at the slightly taller male. "Where's puppy? How's Rocket?"

Levi smiled a little then turned towards his brat. "She's over there." He pointed to Eren, who was picking up some lemon.

"Rocket!" Colin cried, running over to Eren. The teen dropped the lemon that was in hand at the unexpected weight against his leg. "Whoa! Levi, what was that- Colin?" Eren's face changed dramatically, and a smile graced his face as he picked up the small boy and hugged him.

"Rocket!" He cried, his chubby hands pulled at Eren's cheeks as he smiled happily. "I didn't expect to see you here." Eren smiled.

"Maya!" He cried. "Maya! Over her mommy!" The boy called.

Eren turned around. He saw the older woman tying to calm down the group of children. When she heard Colin's voice, she looked at and smiled when she saw Eren.

"Oh, Eren," she called, walking over to the teen. The kids all ran over, screaming "Puppy!" as they each took a hold of him.

Levi sighed with and walked over, greeting the woman. "Hello Maya, it's good to see you again."

"Same to you and Eren. How has things been? Last time I heard about you two was on television. I was flipping through channels when I heard a review about you."

"A review? Really?" Eren asked. Maya nodded then looked at Levi. "I had no idea you guys were famous. I don't usually keep up with that type of stuff, I'm sorry." She giggled wholeheartedly.

"It's not a big deal."

"What is your profession, if I may ask?"

"I'm a profession model, I belong with the Recon Corps. Eren is still an amateur... But he's learning the ropes and getting there."

"Hey! I'm a professional too!"

"Don't listen to him. He will be. But he isn't there yet. You have to work with higher ups, book jobs left and right, and acquire a maximum pay to be considered a "professional." Just because you've achieved fame, doesn't make you professional, it just makes you famous. While that is good, you're just not there yet." Levi explained, Eren rolling his and brushing off his words. "Yeah yeah yeah, whatever keeps your boat sailing."

"Mama, can we have spaghetti tonight?" A young boy with large brown eyes asked. Her voice was small in all the chatter, yet still heard.

"Of course we can, Luca." The little boy named Luca reminded him greatly of his mother. Large round eyes, however not aged. Brown hair that reached the base of his neck. The thing was he seemed shy and timid. He clung onto Maya as if his life depended on it. His mother was confident in her abilities and outspoken when needed. Most likely where he got those traits from. He actually wanted to go up to the little boy and try to hug him since he looked like he needed it. But he restrained himself from doing so and looked at Levi.

"You know, that sounds like a good idea. Spaghetti sounds like a good meal for tonight. We can make a plate for everybody."

"... I was actually going to prepare Bouillabaisse and some garlic toast."

Eren's face lit up like a Christmas tree. He gasped loudly, proclaiming his excitement.

"I should've figured that out when you listed the ingredients... You haven't made that since we started dating..." Levi nodded. "I know. It's been a while since we've last sat down and actually had dinner. Lately, our meals have been either take out or quick fixes that ended up with us on the couch watching terrible movies. So I figured tonight since we have a free day, why don't we have dinner?... But you know... I don't think a few guest will hurt."

He motioned over to Maya who smiled and calmly said, "That's not a problem."

"Levi, what's Booillalaiss-thingy?" A little boy, as Levi remembered, his name was Isaiah, questioned, his words slurring as his mouth tried the new word.

"Bouillabaisse," Levi corrected politely. "And it's a traditional seafood stew eaten with Rouille and garlic toast."

"What's Rouille?"

"It's a sauce, trust me, you'll like it."

"Can we still have spaghetti...?" Luca asked softly, raising his hand.

"Usually, we don't eat spaghetti with-"

"Yes!" Eren interrupted, his voice dying down softly as he glanced at Levi. However, his gaze was still fixated on the small child. "Of course we can, I'll make you some noodels to go along with it."

"I don't like stew."

"You'll like this one. Levi's a master in the kitchen. He can make a sponge taste good."

"You eat sponges? That's nasty, bad dog!" Colin laughed. The kid's began laughing and Eren only sighed, holding back a small chuckle.

"Does that sound good with you?" He inched closer to Luca.

"To eat a sponge? I don't think that's good for my digestive system."

"Wow, I'm surprised you know that word." He nodded slowly and said, "My daddy used to study the human body..."

"I see."

"He's dead now."

The color drained from Eren's face. That was unexpected... That took a wrong turn and escaladed pretty quickly for Eren's taste. He wanted to laugh to lighten up the atmosphere, but that probably wouldn't help the situation at all. The other kids never spoke of death. He wouldn't be surprised if they were completed oblivious to it. But this one didn't seem to have a filter. And the monotone, cold tone didn't help set the mood either.

"O-oh... Well uh..." He swallowed a thick lump in his throat. "How did he-"

"Mommy told me he got very hurt... So he's dead. So is mommy. She swallowed one too many sleeping medications."

"Oh... Uh... How old are you..."

"I'm turning six in April."

"Oh, well that's only a few months away." Eren smiled. However, the child only stared him down until he got uncomfortable enough to dismiss himself from the situation. Just like how quickly the conversation darkened, Eren removed himself from it. Luca was still gazing out then corner of his eye at Eren but later buried his face into Maya's leg.

**~•~**

As far as Eren is concerned, Levi was more than likely going to have to break up with Eren. Because truly, Eren is a kid. Not an ounce of maturity flows through his veins.

Although, he did think it was sweet he was bonding and playing with the kids. But it made sense since they all have the same brain span.

Eren ran around the store with the kids, played games, he even stood up in a cart and acted like he was a superhero. All the little things to make Levi want him more. It was half past one when Levi and Maya managed to round up the kids - including Eren - and paid for the ingredients for their supper. The ride to the orphanage was crammed and annoying. If it wasn't Colin complaining, then it was Elisa crying about Colin continuously biting her or a little girl named Maddie complaining about her hunger. And if it wasn't the kids, then it was Eren yapping on about how small Levi's car was. He doesn't own a minivan. He owns a Mustang, and the seating capacity was a minimum of about five passengers. Not eleven to thirteen.

Once they got back to the orphanage. everybody carried something inside. And the first thing the kids did when Eren set down the groceries was tackle him. Thank God tonight Eren will be completely exhausted and knocked out.

While Eren chased the smaller humans, Levi and Maya began preparing dinner.

"Oi, Maya, can you chop up the onions?"

"Alright." She walkers over to the bag that contained onions and picked up the knife on the counter.

"I need then finely chopped please and thank you."

The woman did as told. The sound of the knife hitting the chopping board mixed in with the children's voices.

"Leeeeviii~" Eren sang, prancing into the kitchen with a soft smile. "The kids and I want dessert."

"Dinner isn't finished yet. And no more dessert for you."

"But the kids and I want desserrrrt~" he whined, his face scrunching up like a spoiled child as he propped himself up on the counter.

Levi groaned as he set a large pot if water to boil. "Fine, if you want desert then you can make a desert."

"I want ice cream!" Eren exclaimed, his smile to his ears. Levi laughed and smiled to himself. "We brought vanilla bean just for you. But we're not just eating ice cream. Why don't you make something to go with it?"

"Oh... Like a pie?"

"Sure." Once the water was hot enough, Levi placed the lobster in the five gallon cooking pot that was newly brought.

"Oh! Or how about a big tart?! Do we have any chocolate?!"

Levi grabbed some potatoes and began chopping them one by one. "No. I made sure not to pick that up. But we have apples, which you picked up, so made do with that." Once the potatoes were chopped, he mixed them in with the Cheyenne peppers and put them in the broth, bringing it to a simmer.

"I'm finished with the onions, which pot do they go in?" Maya asked. Levi pointed to the pile of chopped leeks, fennel and chopped garlic. "Put them over there for now, I'm going to put them on the stove once I drain the lobster."

Maya nodded and followed his instructions. "Leeeevii~"

"What now, brat?"

"Can I make an apple tart? A big one!"

"Knock yourself out kid."

"I'm not a kid!"

**~•~**

The stew perfumed the house with delicious seafood and spices. The tart Eren set out cool mixed in with the scent. It smelled funny; the seafood mixing with the apple sweetness. But overall, it was a marvelous fragrance.

Levi finally got to get a break and walked into the living room. He saw Eren reading to the kids and they attentively listened. Levi smiled as he leaned against the wall with his arms crossed, watching his lover tend to the young children.

Maya was setting up the table, half listening to Eren's story as well. Eren has always been good at enticing people with his words. Levi's very interested and amused by his imagination.

Eren continued to ramble on, the kids laughed before Eren realized Levi joined the audience. "You wanna come and sit next to me? I could use a little more inspiration." Politely, Levi declined. "No thanks. I'd rather listen. I've never been much of a story teller, anyway. I just came to tell you dinner is ready."

The kids were quick on their feet. All excited with the exception of Luca who looked around slightly startled and confused by the sudden uproar. Eren, seeing this, kneeled down next to the small boy and smiled genuinely.

"Come on, Luca, dinner's ready. You better hurry to grab a seat before no more is left."

"Is there spaghetti?" He asked quietly, standing up. Eren nodded. The teen tried to grab the small boy's hand but, he pulled it away.

"Please don't touch me..."

"Oh, I'm sorry."

Levi followed Eren and Luca into the kitchen. The kids were settled around the table as the pot sat in the middle. The tart's golden crust glistened among the food. Since Levi couldn't drink wine with their meal, he chose the second best option. Also known as, Eren's substitute for wine.

Ice cold water.

Levi served the fish dish, poring a hefty amount for everyone. Not forgetting to put Rouille and garlic bread on the side. Eren on the other hand, poured everyone a glass of water and dished out small bowls of plain pasta. Levi wasn't exactly sure on the noodles but decided to give it a try.

Once everybody was settled, Eren and Levi sat in their seats and began eating. Dinner was at a comfortable silence for the most part but Levi was quick to break it due to one concern.

"Slow down, Eren. You'll choke."

The boy looked up. And smiled as he continued to shove spoonfuls in his mouth. Occasionally stopping to eat some of the crab meat and oysters.

"Please taste what you're eating."

"I am."

"You couldn't possibly be tasting anyth-" Eren hiccuped. He covered his mouth quick and looked at Levi who raised a concerned brow. Again he hiccupped and narrowed his eyes at Levi who began to laugh.

"Told you."

"You're such a-" he hiccupped, "-dick."

"Watch your mouth." Maya scolded. He hiccupped once more. "Sorry."

"Drink some water, honey. And savor your food instead of hogging it down this time." She advised, rubbing Eren's back softly before getting up and gathering her empty bowl. "Thanks for the stew, Levi. It was delightful." She ruffled his hair and walked into the kitchen to make dinner. The kids left their almost empty bowls one the table and currently watching the small television set in the living room. Luca didn't even touch his bowl which irritated Levi but tried not to let it bother him. Maya came back and collected the kid's empty dishes and headed back into the kitchen. The sound of running water sounded, filling the small space.

When Eren finished his last bit of stew, he stood up and kissed Levi on the cheek before dismissing himself. Now it was just Levi, Eren's empty bowl, the rest of Levi's fish stew, and his thoughts.

No more than about five minutes later, his meal was finished and he collected his and Eren's dishes - he would have to scold him later for leaving his dish lying around - and went into the kitchen. Maya was drying off a plate and placed it into the cabinet. She turned around when she heard more plates clink in the sink.

She saw Levi ransacking the cabinets. "What are you looking for?" She asked.

"Tea." He responded simply.

He finally found the box of tea and took it out. He grabbed a kettle, filled it with some water and set it to boil.

When he turned, he noticed the apple tart was now sitting on top of the kitchen counter and cooled down. The fresh steam no longer came from the tart. It was cut, leaving a quarter left.

The kettle began whistling and Levi tended to it. The water cut off and Maya began cutting the remaining tart into slices. "Would you like some tea, Maya?"

"Yes, please."

Levi took two mugs from the cabinet and poured the piping hot substance into the cups. He brought them over and set one in front of Maya, quietly thanking her for the dessert handed to him.

He wasn't in the mood for sweets at the moment, but. He brought himself to eat the delectable treat. The tea washed down the strong sweet flavor, blending in harmoniously with each other.

"Eren makes delicious sweets. He's a natural."

Levi nodded, sipping his tea slowly. "His mother owned a café. It would be humorous if Eren was a shitty baker. Oh, sorry for my language."

"Watch your tongue next time," she gave him a soft smile and continued. "I didn't know his mother owned a café. What's it called? Is it nearby?" The room fell into a uncomfortable silent. It was an awfully dense atmosphere and Maya noticed it quickly. Levi only stared at her, setting his tea cup down with a soft thud against the counter.

"I'm sorry..." She mumbled, not sure what else to say.

"There's no need to apologize. I assume that you're not aware... His mother's name was Carla Jaeger. She owned a small cafe in Rose called Titan Chronical. However, on December 23rd, last year, the shop was burned down and Carla requested Euthanasia later that night."

"Oh my... And around Christmas too? Oh, poor boy must've been shattered. It's good to see he's elated now. Do you know who did it? I would like to know their behind bars."

Again, Levi went silent. He shook his head softly and murmured a "No." He didn't want to tell who did it. He knew. And it was fucking eating him alive... On day, he was going to crack and spill everything like a volcano... But that's exactly what the enemy wants. That's just what he's waiting for to make his move. He needed to tell someone... But Maya just wasn't it. Not only would she be thrown into the madness but the kids as well. If Levi's ever going to make a move, he needs to plan his steps and hope for the best.

"I'm sorry to hear this. I hope whoever did this pays for their crimes."

"They will... Trust me."

Maya blew on her tea. "You know, since you and Eren are famous, what are you planning to do for Valentines Day?"

That literally came out of no where and Levi looked up. "Valentines Day? I actually forgot about that. What day is it?"

"February 7th." Maya confirmed. "I haven't thought of anything for Valentines Day. I'll buy him chocolates and flowers or something."

She chuckled. "You sound so nonchalant about it."

"Valentines Day isn't my thing. Neither is love. It's gross."

"Yet, you like Eren."

"Who said I love Eren?"

"Who said I said that you_ love_ Eren?" She said with a cunning raise of her brow. She had a confident smirk as she watched the man look up, realizing he just tripped up on his words.

"Excuse me?"

"You heard me just fine mister." She said, pulling on his cheek. "I may be elderly, but, I know what I said. I never stated anything bout you_ loving_ Eren, you admitted that yourself."

"..."

"There's no shame in admitting you're in love."

"That word is disgusting." Levi groaned.

"Have you told him it yet?"

"Kinda... Sorta.. I Guess... Why does he need to hear it? He already knows it."

"Are you sure?"

Levi took large mouthfuls of tea before replying. "I'm pretty sure he knows. I mean, I put up with him. That should be enough."

"How do you know for sure? There's a difference between actions and vocals. You should show him both."

"Okay, then what do you suggest I should do?"

Maya simply shrugged and ate a slice of the apple tart. "I'm not dating Eren, now am I?"

"No..." Levi said. "I'm just don't know what to get him."

"You'll know when the time comes. Eren doesn't seem like the picky type."

"You're right, he's not."

"Why don't you get him something unexpected? What does he like?"

"Cats. I'm considering buying another cat."

"Oh, that's great! You should buy him a kitten, something small."

Levi laughed. "He actually hates cats."

Maya sighed and giggled as well. "Is the poor boy allergic to cats?"

"No. He believes my cat, Isabel, is a "demon." So I'm considering purchasing a male cat so they can mate. But I already have to deal with two shits in the house, and that's including Eren. So having a shit ton of kittens would be pretty shitty."

"Levi." She warned.

"What, I can't help it. Plus shit jokes are pretty funny."

She chuckled. "You're so hopeless, Levi." She said sarcastical

Levi only smiled as a response. "You know, Eren really likes kids. You should do something whereas kids are involved."

"Are you suggesting we should adopt children? Because Eren is enough."

"No no, that's not what I'm suggesting at all! I mean, since he likes children so much, maybe you should take him to a place where kids are."

"You mean like a school or something? I fucking hate kids. Except the baby brats and the brat."

"Baby brats and brat?"

"The orphans and Eren. They're all brats."

"Haha, I see why Eren likes you so much. I'm guessing he's enticed by your personality."

"Vise versa." Levi clarified. "Oh, are you finished with your plate?"

"Hm? Oh yes, thank you." Levi walked over to the sink and began washing off the plate. He used lavender dish liquid... He would have to buy some for his home as well. The smell of it was delightful to his senses.

"Why don't we start from scratch?"

"With what?" Levi actually sounded like he completely forgot about the conversation they were just having no more than two minuets ago! He sounded oblivious to the woman's dismay.

"With Eren. Hm... How old is he?"

"Nineteen. Twenty in March."

"How old are you?"

"Turned twenty-three on Christmas last year."

"You're a Christmas baby. You should smile more," she teased, "What's his favorite color?"

"He likes the color of the ocean and he likes green."

"What about you? What your favorite color?"

"His eyes."

Maya smiled. "What does he want to be? What is his desired profession?"

"A Marine Biologist. I forced him into modeling in a way. No matter how you look at it, I bribed him."

"How?"

"A paid college tuition. I haven't forgotten, I just haven't had the time to do it. I hope he didn't forget, it's likely though."

"Well... Even if you bribed him, he still agreed to do it. It was his free will."

"Yes," Levi agreed, turning off the water and drying his hands. "But anybody would agree to a free tuition. It's common sense." He walked back over to his tea and the stirred the cooled down liquid.

"Alright, so he wanted go be a Marine Biologist? So he likes the ocean?"

"At first, he was terrified of the ocean due to an incident when he was younger. Now, I guess he's gotten over it. But he's still afraid of the thing. I would much rather him go swimming with a partner or spotter instead of by himself."

"I understand... Why don't you get him something inspired by the ocean? Or take him some place with fish. Like an aquarium?" Levi nodded, taking that into consideration. That actually wasn't a bad idea. The thing is, where the hell is an aquarium around here? He would have to remind himself to map it out once he got home and Eren falls asleep.

"I'll think about it. It's a good idea. Eren likes fish. Sometimes he'll randomly get on the topic of fish. One of the reasons why I would like him to continue his classes at University."

"Does he have pet fish?"

Levi shook his head. "I don't think Isabel would like another shit getting attention. She already hates Eren."

"She's a girl, of course she wants attention."

"You know, Eren likes sea shells as well. Last time we were at the beach we collected some and they're on in a box inside the drawer at home."

"Well, good! Collect some seashells while you're at it. The more the merrier!"

Levi nodded and smiled. "I think Eren would really enjoy if you and the kids came along as well."

"The kids will enjoy that. Thank you." Levi nodded and pulled his phone from his pocket, glancing at a message sent from Erwin. He quickly discarded it and put his phone away after he checked his phone for the time. It was already quarter to eight and Isabel was probably hungry and in a irritated mood by now. Levi couldn't wait to see how much of her fluids she left around the house. Such a charm...

"Well, Maya, Eren and I should be on our way now. It's almost eight and Isabel's probably starving. It was good to talk to you. It was nice to be out the house for a while."

Maya smiled and lead him towards the living room. The sight before Levi was something enough to make his cold heart melt slowly. Like sitting an ice cube. "Ha, well no wonder the house got so damn quiet." He mumbled.

Before them, was Eren sitting on the floor, his head lolled back on the couch drooling slightly. His arms were wrapped around the children who all snuggled together on his lap.

A few plates of half eaten apple tart was scattered here and there. It would only take second top to clean up. But one thing Levi knew for sure. The plate that was completely empty was Eren's. Sometime he was surprised the kid didn't eat his utensils when coated with left over sweets.

But Levi had to admit. While in the back of his head he was debating whether to make Eren walk home in the morning after he cleaned up the mess, or he cleans up the mess and as punishment, Eren gets tied to the back of his car nude and drive him home... He couldn't help but smile at the small young boy, Luca as Levi recalled, snuggled at one Eren's chest sound asleep. His arms were wrapped around his neck and he slept soundly against Eren's warmth.

If Levi never knew Eren, he would think Luca was his son.

The resemblance is uncanny.

Even for Levi.

* * *

A/N: My testing is over for this month! WhoHoo!

...

For this month...

...

I literally have testing this Wednesday and it's math so wish me luck. And I give you all the good luck in the world is you have testing as well! Whether this week, next week, next month etc... I want you to know you have all the luck in the world. Even if you're not testing. I still wish luck to you.

I wanted this posted last week but I've been caught up in another fan fiction I'm working on. I'm planning on posting the first chapter some time between mid summer through early fall. All I'm doing is planning out the chapters and man is it time consuming. Don't worry, I'm still making space for Million Dollar Model.

I have cavities you guys! You're appreciation for this story is literally overbearing I can't take it! I can't thank my readers enough for giving this story love. I'm really happy to have you guys. Even if you're not mention in review response, don't think you're going unnoticed because I pay attention to everyone of you and thank you all equally.

Anyway, my candy canes, I'm not going to keep you hear for long so, till next time!

Review Response:

ClockworkMinds: Lmao, when I first read this I thought you said he was a butterface... Yeah, it sucks to know Levi is basically rendered defenseless against Auruo. But it shows how much Levi cares that he's putting others before himself in this situation. And my writing skills still have room to improve bother to consider myself an excellent writer. Thanks for reviewing.

Guest: Long and filling indeed. Tiring because it took me an entire month! Glad to hear you enjoyed it though :) And it only took me like 27 chapters to actually include his friends. I feel ashamed I felt them out for so long! They were fun to write! I really enjoyed writing them.

nate-the-noob: Thank you, darling ^_^ and I'm not gonna get mad because you didn't review the other chapters, I don't mind. And thanks for all the love you leave on the story. And I love your username. I just had to put that out there.

AkiharaK: Hearing you've spent 9 hours reading this train wreck is truly bringing tears to my eyes! I have to go back in and re-edit MDM because of the errors! Ahhh, thank you so much! And it surprises me people spend hours just on this one fan fiction... Like really thanks and I'm happy to know you enjoy it.

Mitchell343e: Thank you! :3 Yes, it has calmed it is settling down. I like how this one has a bit of everything. Plus Eren's friends, am I right? Thanks for reviewing!

Ern Estine 13624: Thank you! And don't worry I have a few more chapters coming up

CaptainoftheRirenShip: Ugh, I know. I didn't keep track of how much I typed and it was hell for both you and I! Haha, I'm happy to hear you're enjoying MDM so far.

hidansbabe530: Thank you! I'm happy you as well as others are keeping up with my fanfic. I've been very busy lately so I'm happy to read yours and everybody else's response :)


	29. Chapter Twenty Eight: Macaroons & Tea

The silence lurking in Levi's home was completely unwelcoming.

Not only did it make him feel alone but also uncomfortable. Of course he had his darling little Isabel but she would get annoyed with his constant complaining about Eren not being home and she would hop off his stomach, waddle over to her bed settled in the corner and relax.

Occasionally, Levi would flip through the channels, get some food, continue flipping through the TV, find something that captured his attention, swear and continue the cycle again.

It was like a broken record without Eren.

Levi had nothing to do and without Eren, Levi was unsatisfied and unproductive.

The kid kept him busy.

After a while of doing absolutely nothing, his phone alerted him he had a message. Staring at the notification, he noticed it was a text from Eren.

**Bright Eyes: Hey Levi! Sorry I haven't texted u all day. I won't be home till around half past midnight... I love you and I miss you!**

**Bright Eyes: Oh! And I'll bring you some funnel cake... If we don't eat it all...**

Levi smiled inwardly and set his phone on the table, releasing a large sigh. Today, Eren was out with friends at the local fair. And by local, he actually meant an hour and a half away. The fair was past Sina, heading into a completely different county all together. If Armin wasn't apart of their group, Levi would not have hesitated to chaperone the group. But Eren would protest against that and Levi would agree. Meaning that later that night, he would have to prepare whatever he needed to get the ridiculous group of college students back. But as long as the blonde was with them, there was nothing Levi would have to worry about.

Well nothing except his obvious boredom.

He placed his arms behind his head and dozed off into the television.

He was watching some Spanish, cheesy, soap opera and even though he couldn't understand it, there was nothing else on.

This lasted until a Spanish commercial for Valentine's day came on and he sat up, gaining interest. Despite not being fluent in the language, he caught a hold of only two words:

_Amar_ which meant love, and _Especiales_ which he assumed meant special.

The commercial ended within minutes and finally Levi had something to do. Or at least think about in his spare time.

He stood up and stretched, snatching his phone off the table and heading to kitchen to grab a quick snack. He gathered ingredients to make a sandwich and made two, cutting them into halves.

Taking a bite of one of the halves, he unlocked his phone and began searching online for gifts to buy Eren.

He looked at generic teddy bears, balloons, cards, even roses. Nothing interested him. Every gift was generic and cliché.

Maybe... He could buy him some jewelry? A charm bracelet or something?

He scratched the back of his head as he poked the last pieces of his snack into his mouth. Nothing seemed to make the cut. While Eren was always thankful for what he got, Levi wanted to make him truly love his gift. This was their first Valentines Day as a couple after all.

He remembered spending V-Day with Petra a few years prior. It was a simple candle lit dinner, exchanging small talk and their presents. Then afterwards, they would engage in sex and dozed off to sleep.

... Now that he thought about it, their relationship seemed a lot more robotic and forced than natural. If anything, everyday seemed like it went by with no actual thought when they were together. Everyday was automatic and routine with almost no change. Occasionally, something would pop up like a dinner with her job or some type of good news if they were lucky. But even while they were at the table, it was still fake smiles and only perfection. While they were in love, they weren't in love with each other... And that was most likely their downfall. Levi felt as if it was mandatory to marry her. As if it was his duty. Not because he actually but thought into it. He thought he was in love with her and he had to marry her. Because that's how it goes right?

That was a man's duty and first step to building his family.

But, Petra was the one to slap him into his rude awakening.

And thank God for that.

He continued trying to find something that would satisfy both his and Eren's needs.

He knows Eren enjoys music so he decided to buy him an iPod and an iTunes card to go with it.

But that's all he has as an idea for now.

Hm...

Maybe he should buy him an Iggy Azalea CD and call it quits?

Suddenly, a message popped up on his screen from his partner.

**Bright Eyes: R u ok Levi? U haven't responded back...**

Levi sighed with a soft smile and typed out a response.

**Levi: Yes, Eren, I'm fine. Don't worry about me, have your fun with your friends.**

**Levi: Please don't get your shitty asses killed. It'll be a hassle to get you all back in one piece.**

**Bright Eyes: Oh, ok Levi. Don't worry, I'm having fun. I'll send pictures later.**

**Bright Eyes: I love you.**

Levi smiled once more and replied.

**Levi: I love you too**

Levi exited out of his messages and accidentally opened his contacts. Before he clicked the home button on the middle of his phone to close the screen, he saw someone who made screws turn in his brain.

Mikasa.

Now... If anybody knows and loves Eren the same way Levi does, it would be Mikasa.

The puzzle was slowly coming together. He was only one step closer to figuring out what to do for his beloved brat. So he grabbed his car keys, replenished Isabel's food and water bowl, cleaned up his used plate and put it away. All of this before he finally threw on a pull over and left his home.

**~•~**

If Levi recalled correctly, on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, Mikasa leaves her gym early and allows her assistants to take over in her position. So, she should be home around now.

Hopefully.

Only one detail will tell. He pulled into the quiet neighborhood where Mikasa resides.

Bright, green grass in front of every modern yet luxurious home. Not a single home looked out of place. But, they did differ in design and color.

He pulled into a modern, fair sized home with a round about driveway. And just as he hoped, her Escalade was parked respectfully right before the entrance to the door. He pulled up behind the SUV and parks his car. Turning off the engine, he pulls his hoodie over his head before he exits his vehicle.

As he walked past her car, he scowls. He always hated the fact she got such large cars. It was her money and in no way was Levi allowed or going to tell her how to spend it, but he always felt... Intimidated by the large car. He remembered when she first bought the Escalade and she wanted to drive him around, he literally had to crawl into the damn thing. At least he grew a little more so it wasn't so much of a hassle. And to make things worse, he could barely see over the hood of the car properly to even drive it. Let's just say he was laughed at for months and vowed never to be humiliated by a car ever again.

But he still loved the interior. No point in lying about that.

Once he reached the front door, he rang the door bell and knocked twice. He patiently waited for his sister to answer the door.

But instead of her coming to the door, she unlocked the front door via security system and Levi entered the house. It made him wonder why she didn't come down stairs to answer the door. Maybe she was taking a shit?

Before he could call out her name, his questions were answered by the sound of skin and force hitting something coming from upstairs.

He smirked softly to himself as he descended into the loft like living room. He walked down the four round wooden steps resending from large to small into the comforting atmosphere. He really liked the layout of Mikasa's home. The entire home was tiled with beautiful dark, forest wood, smooth to the touch. The kitchen and the entrance of the home was more... Elevated unlike the living room. The living room was kind of like a bowl. Unlike the rest of the home, the living room took a deep dip into the floor which Levi thought was very creative and gorgeous.

He really enjoyed walking up and down the four little steps that shifted the home. Whenever he visits, he will always take a quick stroll through the living room before making his way up back up the steps and towards the round opening that lead to the bedrooms and bathrooms.

Since Mikasa was the only occupant in her home for now, she used the middle bedroom as a home gym. The middle room just because it was convenient. The door was opened to his surprise, so Levi took it upon himself to walk inside and wait until she was finished.

Her strikes to the punching bag are timed and precise. Each time her punches getting stronger and her kicks becoming higher. The more she strikes, the more focus she became. She was in her element; in her zone. Best not to be bothered.

Ear buds plugged deep in her ears, pumping her up more. She jumped in place, becoming aware Levi is standing before her. She ends with a powerful roundhouse kick, effectively making the punching bag move due to her force. Her supporting leg shifts her body around until she's facing Levi. She places her striking foot down and pulls out her ear buds, loud music filling the comfy silence between them.

"I'm surprised. Your kicks have gotten much stronger from the last time I watched you trained at your studio. I'm impressed." Levi complimented, pushing himself off the wall and walking closer to his sister.

"Thanks," she compliments blankly. But, there's a hint if sincerity Levi picks up. "What brings you here? It's my day off and I'd like to train."

She picks up a water bottle and chugs it down, waiting for his answer.

"Wow, not even a hello? Can I not know how my darling little sister is doing? I'm hurt." He comments, feigning hurt as he placed a hand over his heart.

She looks at him briefly but doesn't stop drinking her beverage.

"... I came over to talk about Eren." He cuts to the point. He's never been one to beat around the bush.

Once every drop is gone, she releases a refreshed sigh and wipes her lips with the back of her hand. "Eren? What about him, is he okay? He didn't get into any trouble, did he?"

"Oh no, not at all. Actually, I need help with that stupid "holiday" coming up. You know, the one with hugs and kisses and shit."

Mikasa raised one of her brows for a split second and nodded. "Come. Let's chat in the kitchen."

**~•~**

Levi nods a silent thank you as a cup of tea as well as four macaroons were placed in front of him. He sat on a high stool leaning on the island of the kitchen, elbows propped against the marble counter top as he allowed his tea to steep.

Mikasa grabbed another bottle of water from the fridge and stood in front of her non biological sibling.

She stood in nothing but her usual sports bra and matching shorts. Her pale skin coated in light sweat. "Talk to me." She said simply.

Levi picked up his drink. "I don't know what to get Eren for Shitty-tines Day."

"Valentines Day," she corrected, leaning on the counter. Her barefeet embracing the cold floor cooling her heated body down a notch.

"Same shit, different smell," he said. "I've known Eren for what? About a few months, not even a full year...? And already it's our first Valentines Day together."

She nodded. "Yes, but this holiday is no different from the others. You guys spent your first Christmas together."

"Yes, crying. It wasn't much of a Christmas to remember."

She cursed herself for bringing up such terrible memories. "Most of us couldn't spend the holidays correctly. This year, nothing will go wrong and we will all spend our holidays happy and as one. And you'll have a proper birthday celebration unlike last year."

"Let's not dig too deep into the past..." Levi sighed, taking a bit out of a colorful macaroon. "Anyway, I came to ask what should I get Eren?"

She shrugged. "I don't know, it's up to you."

"Come on, I know that."

"Buy Eren something that you think he'll like." She advised.

"That's what I'm trying to avoid. I don't want to buy him something g he'll like, I want to buy him something he'll love."

Mikasa's lips thinned. She slides onto a stool and takes in another mouthful of water. "I'm not romantically involved with him, so my suggestions might not be adequate. But I do know he is very emotional and it doesn't take too much to please him."

"I know. I'm just trying to figure out something that'll mean something to him."

"I understand."

"Think Levi, what's something that'll really get Eren going?" He mumbles to himself, rubbing his temples. "You know, speaking of Eren, where is he? I highly doubt you left him home." Mikasa says.

"He's out with his friends at a local fair. He'll be home tonight around twelve. Maybe even eleven if I'm lucky."

"Why don't you see if he brings home something from the fair? Maybe he'll bring home a prize he's attached to, and maybe that'll give you a hint what to buy him."

"That's not a bad idea... What if he brings home a porta-potty full of shit and piss?"

"Ugh, can you not joke about feces?" She asks as she pinches her nose.

"It's a habit... But what if he does."

"He's not bringing that home. Not like you'd let him anyways too."

"Eh, you're right."

"Think Levi, for as long as you've known him, what's something he'll really like?"

"Love," Levi said unintentionally. "I'm debating whether or not buy him an iPod and iTunes card as well as an Iggy Azalea CD."

"... Why Iggy Azalea?"

Levi shrugs. "Just to piss him off."

"Okay, let's not buy him something that'll upset him but something the opposite," she laughed to herself.

"I really have to think about that..." Levi stirred his tea, thoughts rummaging through his mind. Mikasa waited patiently, taking her hair out of it's bun and running her fingers through it briefly.

Her brother picked up another macaroon and took a large bite of it. Chewing the purple, nutty pastry before washing to down with tea. "You know, these are really good."

She nodded. "I brought them on my way home from the gym. I thought about trying them."

"Hm..." Levi hummed slowly. The kitchen fell silent once more and Levi simply stared at his tea and the macaroons. He didn't know why, but he felt as if something was trying to click together in his brain.

The aftertaste of macaroons and tea danced on his tongue, continuing to linger happily.

It was finally coming together, as he continued to think and as time ticked by, the puzzle began piecing itself together.

And before knew it, his hand slammed against the counter and he stood, startling Mikasa.

"Mikasa, I got it!" He exclaimed, clasping his hands on her shoulders.

"Levi, don't do that," she scolded. "Now continue what you were saying."

He sat back down and explained his plan and before he knew it, Mikasa was nodding on board with the plan.

"Would you mind heading into town with me? If this is gonna work we are gonna have to buy supplies."

She smiled gently. "Of course," she walked over to a small hook next to the light switch for the kitchen. "But I'm driving."

**~•~**

Half past four and the sun settled high in the sky, slowy making it's way down. Luckily, they managed to find what they were looking for and bought it.

Now, they rummaged through stores looking for items to decorate.

Store after store, price after price. Reality was slowly starting to sink in to Levi's dismay, but he didn't let that discourage him.

How was this gonna work?

Was Eren gonna like it?

What if he feels saddened by his gift?

Questions ran through Levi's head but nothing would stop him. Soon, Levi's phone alerted him and he took it out his pocket.

**Bright eyes: Hey Levi**

**Levi: What Brat? You're supposed to be enjoying yourself not talking to me**

**Bright eyes: ...**

**Bright eyes: I know... I miss you though... I'm taking plenty of pictures, ok?**

**Levi: That's fine. Send them once you leave the fair.**

**Bright eyes: Ok... How is everything? Are you alright by yourself?**

**Levi: I've been living by myself for years before I knew you. So don't worry about me, I'm fine.**

**Levi: Stop texting me!**

Levi slid his phone back in his pocket and continued on with Mikasa. The cart was filled with different materials to decorate. As soon as they passed by the paint aisle, the raven haired woman stopped dead in her tracks. "Levi," she called, walking further into the aisle.

He followed behind her, pushing the cart.

She turned. "Don't you think your gift might be a little too... Dull?"

Levi shrugged. "It think it's fine. We have stuff to decorate it with, so..."

She shook her head, silently scolding him. "That won't due. Come, help me pick a color."

Levi groaned and walked next to her. He only stood aside, his arms crossed, obviously uninterested. He looked like a husband who'd much rather longue around on the couch all day instead of grocery shopping with his wife.

"How about this one?" She held up a yellow colored card. "No, too bright."

"This one?"

"That's the same color as my piss," he commented snidely. Mikasa glanced at him, before putting down the card and moving onto a different color completely.

"How about red? Crimson is gorgeous."

Levi thought about it then shook his head. "No. I want light colors."

"Oh, so _now_ you want to choose paint?"

Levi looked up, small smirk apparent. "It's just to kill time. And if you're going to get any color, get a sea colored blue or a nice shade of green. Eren likes those colors."

A man walked up, scanning the siblings before speaking. "Is there something I can help you with? Anything particular you're looking for?"

Other turned, almost simultaneously. "I'm looking for paint for my boyfriend's Valentines Day present."

"You two aren't a couple?"

"No!" Both answered.

"He's my brother."

"Yeah you sick fuck,"

"Levi! He didn't know, there's no need to be so rude!" She exclaimed, she looked at the man. "I apologize for my brother, he has no filter."

"Not like you do either,"

"Yes, but I don't throw profanities at people just for minor misunderstandings." Levi rolled his eyes and she pulled on his ear and cheeks.

"Okay, okay, I'll stop. Fuck, I'm sorry..."

The man laughed awkwardly and for some reason, his awkward communication skills reminded him a lot of that freckled kid who also had a crush on Mikasa... What was his name...?

Marlo?

Or was it Marco...? The kid looked like a Marco, most likely the second option-

"Levi?"

"Huh? Oh, I'm sorry?"

The man spoke up. "Is there a particular color you're looking for?"

"Um... Well... I'm dating this brat and his name is Eren and he likes the color green. But I don't want a shitty colored green. And by shitty, I mean the green that looks like baby vomit. I want a green that's kind of like his eyes... His eyes are blue but bordering green."

"So... You want something like a teal?" He asked, picking up a teal card.

"No, something lighter maybe? I want it to stand out."

"Hm... Well, then how about this one?"

Now the color was somewhat like Eren's eyes. However, it was a shade darker. But it will do. This continued for a good twenty minutes or so. Levi picked out a total of three colors: White, the bright teal, and an emerald green.

"Is that all you'd like sir?" The man asked. Levi glanced at his name tag to see his name was Gabriel.

"That should be all we need right now," Levi answered, placing the large can of white paint in the cart while Mikasa put in the teal. He stack the can of emerald green paint on top the others then said, "but if we need anything else, we'll come back."

"Sir, is it all right if I may ask something?"

"Go ahead."

"Are you sure your lover will appreciate cans of paint for Valentines Day?" The man laughed softly.

"Oh, no, he'll love the paint cans for sure. Trust me. Hm... Maybe I shouldn't have spent all the money and brought him the paint instead... Actually, he may get sick from inhaling the paint like some type of addict. He likes the smell of fresh paint... Fucking creep."

"Haha, I suppose... But, as I said before, if you need anything else, don't hesitate to come back! You know who to call!"

"Actually... We might need more paint... This might not be enough..." Mikasa mumbled. "Do you have a plan for this?"

"Not exactly." Levi admitted firmly.

"Think about it... Is only one can of paint enough?"

"You might have a point..." He looked at the man and quickly said, "we'll take three cans of each."

**~•~**

The sun already set. And they managed to hit six different stores. Thank God Mikasa suggested to take her ridiculous sized SUV because there's no way in hell this would fit in the back trunk of his Mustang.

Levi snuggled back in the leather seats, closing his eyes gently enjoying the smooth cruise of her vehicle.

Smoother ride than his, he had to admit. Quality was one of the top adjectives he'd use to describe the car.

Only if he had more height to him, he wouldn't mind getting behind the wheel of it.

He played with the controls on the air conditioning as they came to a stop. Turning the knob, the air pressure stopped blowing harsh winds. The moon was nestled high in the sky and to be honest, Levi was exhausted. He cleaned up Eren's gift, which was time consuming and overall exhausting. But completely worth it. Despite his fatigue, he had to keep his eyes peeled for Eren.

Mikasa arrived home within an hour. Her home was located far from Sina and it took her a total of an hour and fifteen minutes to get to and from her gym and human resources everyday. Meaning everyday after work, Mikasa would stop at a store, shop for groceries, pick up a quick snack and head on home.

Levi was the first out of the vehicle, unstrapping himself from the seat and whispering silent goodbyes to the luxury. Mikasa agreed to keep the materials for Eren's present and try to finish up tomorrow.

Once everything was settled, Levi found himself in the sunken living room relaxing on the couch while Mikasa showered.

Yup. He loved the bowl shaped living room. If he leaned back on the couch and propped his arms up, they would rest against the hardwood floor that led to the kitchen, front door and the bedrooms.

Levi glanced at the clock on the wall to see it was ten past nine. Only a few more hours, he could kill time.

When Mikasa came out the shower, she joined him on the couch. They talked for a bit. Mikasa was awfully curious about Eren's gift and who should help out and how to make this work, how Eren would feel about it. There were mixed feelings about this idea. But there's no turning back now, it's already been done. From today, there are only five more days until the 14th. Honestly, no turning back now.

When eleven fifteen rolled around, Levi decided he should be heading home. From Mikasa's residence to Levi's, it was about a forty five minute drive.

He would be late opening the door for Eren.

Actually... The brat should have his keys on him. Hopefully.

When Levi pulled into Sinadonna, typed in the code, and drove into the community. Within about five minutes, he pulled into his driveway and cut the engine off.

From the looks of it, Eren's not home. Eren has a habit of turning on the porch light and backyard lights just in case. Especially if Levi's car wasn't parked, Eren would leave the lights on.

He glanced at the time on his phone.

12:01.

Well, of course he wouldn't be home... He wouldn't expect him to be...

And if Levi recalled correctly, Eren said he'll be home sometime around 12:30. 12:45 give or take.

He got out his car, fumbling with his house keys.

When he entered, he took his shoes by the door. Isabel greeted him. She meowed loudly, capturing his attention as the cat ran up to him and affectionately rubbed at his leg. Levi scratched behind her ear, earning a deep purr from his pet.

"Come shit face, let's get you fed."

Levi walked into the kitchen, Isabel sprinting behind him.

Levi fished out her food and Isabel waited paitenly by her bowl. She nuzzled his hand as he poured cat food into the bowl. When she began eating, he marched upstairs. The model's stomach began to growl. He would have to grab dinner later, but for now, Levi went inside his and Eren's shared room and began his nightly routine.

He stripped of his day clothes, took a quick shower, dressed in sweats and one of Eren's old shirts then checked his phone.

Still no new messages and it was officially 12:28. Eren should be home by now!

His stomach turned but he dropped the feeling. His friend's probably stopped to get food or something.

He left his phone on the dresser and went back downstairs. His stomach was growling. It felt like the bile acids were eating away at his flesh and organs...

He went into the fridge. He didn't want to cook a full course cuisine when it was almost one AM. So simply, he pulled out a frozen dinner and shoved it in the microwave. Unhealthy, filled with unneeded and completely unnecessary fats and oils but fuck it. One frozen dinner isn't gonna kill him.

This was probably the second time he's had a frozen meal in his entire life. The first time was with Eren and it is quote, "One of Eren's favorite things to eat," but let's be honest, Eren will eat anything that's edible.

The microwave beeped and Levi took out his microwavable dinner.

"Shit!" He cursed, his hand moving away quickly when it burned. Hr growled angrily at the food, staring it down as if it was an evil entity.

He quickly snapped out of his glare when he heard the door bell, followed by two quick knocks at the door.

Levi smiled on the inside and rushed to the door. He opened the front door- a completely reckless and foolish move if you ask him. What if a criminal was at the door? Standing before him however, was no criminal but a smiling, teenaged boy with filled hands. He was wearing a stupid fedora, which Levi planned on burning first thing tomorrow morning.

A horn beeped as Ymir pulled off into the night, Eren's friend waving and saying goodbye as they drove off into the night.

Caught off guard, arms found their way around Levi's neck followed by weight against his small frame. Lips trailed along his cheek and eyes glowed before him. As radiant as Eren's smile.

"Hi Levi," he greeted. "I had fun."

Levi chuckled and placed a chaste kiss on his lips. "Good to know. I can tell too." Eren got off him and made his way into his home. Levi closed the front door.

Eren sniffed the air. "Something smells... Burned...?"

"Yeah, uh, I made frozen food. The piece of shit decided to burn in the microwave."

"Ha, only you could burn microwaveable meals."

"Oh, so you're some type of expert in this stuff?" Levi asked, inching closer. He closed the distance between them and locked his arms behind his waist. "Maybe I am." Eren tried, a cocky smirk tugging at his lips.

Before Levi could kiss him again, an overly excited voice broke the barrier. "I won fish!"

"What?" Eren pushed Levi off him and picked up the bag of fish on the counter, holding them up proudly.

"I won fish! At the fair!" He held the bag of fish in front of his face, ogaling the colorful yet dull creatures. Levi walked around behind him and settled his chin in his shoulder blade, joining Eren in his staring party.

There were a total of four brightly colored fish in the bag swimming around, obviously cramped into he small space. Eren walked into the kitchen and got a clear glass bowl, pouring water into the dish.

"What are you doing?" Levi asked, following the teen into the kitchen.

"Shhh," he opened the bag.

"Don't you fucking dare."

And oh, he dared. One after the other, the fish went into the glass dish thankful for more swimming grounds. Levi scowled and groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose as Eren started at the fish.

"They're called Betta Fish," he said.

"I don't care."

"By the looks of it, they are all female fish."

"You but them in something we use to make food. That's fucking disgusting."

"Hm... Male Bettas generally have longer fins, while females have shorter finnage. So yes, I can confirm they're all female."

"Look, I don't care as long as they don't get pregnant."

Eren looked up. "There are no male bettas for them to engage in sexual activity with, so, there's no way for them to become pregnant. That is... Until I manage to buy an actual tank for them to mate..."

"A tank? Where the fuck are we gonna put a fish tank? Who the hell said I wanted fish?!"

"Well... You have Isabel... And as soon as I saw that one of the carnival's prizes was fish, I had to get them. So Armin and I played for fish. He won some and I won some too. And we can't keep them in a regular bowl. They'll die sooner or later. They need a filtered tank, food, water purifier-"

"Seriously?" Levi groaned. "You're already a hand full..."

"Please Levi? Look at how pretty they are. Bettas are magnificat creatures!" Eren beamed.

"_You're _a creature..." Levi mumbled. He sighed. "Look brat, I'll allow you to keep the damn fish. I'll also buy a tank and a dog collar so you can walk it or whatever, just, take care of them. Clean their tanks, feed them, just take care of the fish. And if you buy male fish, I swear to God they better not fuck and all the female fish turn out pregnant. I'm not dealing with hundreds of fucking fish. Got it?"

Wren gasped and smiled. "Do you mean it?"

"Yes,"

"I can really keep them?!"

"Yes, don't make me repeat myself..."

Eren kissed Levi deeply and ran his hand over the back of his neck. He pulled away and mumbled. "Best. Boyfriend. Ever."

"I'm the only boyfriend you had."

"Haha, I know!" Eren chirped. He skipped back to the bowl of fish and began talking to them.

"For now, since I only have four, I'll name this one Annie, since she's isolating herself. Then I'll name this one Mikasa, just because she's black, gray and she says pink fins,"

"But Mikasa doesn't like pink. She likes red."

"I know. But this one's the closest to Mikasa. I'll name this one Sasha because she liked this fish. And this last one will be named Carla. Her name's Carla because I like this fish the most. I love all of them but I adore this one."

"Oh so..." He drew out, lacing his arms around Eren. "You adore this fish more than me?"

"Maybe..."

"Do you love this fish more than me?"

"Of course I do!" Eren teased.

"Hm... Looks I have competition then, don't I?"

"I guess you do."

**~•~**

A/N: I was going to post this chapter yesterday but yesterday was hectic. Possibly the best day of this school year... But yeah, I'm kinda mad because I had to delay the chapter. Yesterday, a fight broke out and the police came and the fire department and we got lectured and I tried not to laugh during it and we lost all privileges. We're not even allowed to go the bathroom or water anymore... I mean, we're not a bad school... But man, I think it was the fact Publix was delivering cakes to us and then the fight broke out during lunch and Publix was literally standing right there... And you Dominican girls have a killer right hook! I swear she knocked her jaw out of place.

Anyway... Away from that...

Thanks for all the reviews, follow and favorites my candy canes! Thank you all for being supportive and continuing the support. Like seriously thanks. Happy Mother's Day to all of your moms! Show your moms love!

I seriously hate this chapter, I dont even know why. I just feel like it's not enough and uggggggghhh someone shoot me for creating this train wreck of a chapter...

But uh... until next time!

hidansbabe530: Thank you very very much!

Guest: I think I love my reviewers even morr

nate-the-noob: Math is killer! Thanks for enjoying the chapters and I'm sorry I posted so late! Thank you! And if you're testing as well, good luck too! You're gonna amazing.

pinkafoo: He actually meant what date it was. Like what day is it... Not when is Valentines Day but how many more days until Valentines Day. Sorry... I knew somebody was gonna get tripped up on that...

Glasses: I wouldn't be surprised either.

addictedtoattackontitan: Thank you and I agree, it was pretty cute :)

Mitchell343e: Yes, immature Eren is one of my favorite things. I accidentally created Luca to be honest. At first, he was just going to be one of the side characters until I actually put thought into him. More in dept thought than I did with the other children and Maya. But I will be involving the orphans more if I make a sequel to this story. I actually want to explain why he's extremely disturbing for someone his age... I have an idea for it, I'm just not too sure on how it's going to work. Thanks for reviewing.

Ern Estine 13624: Thank you for reviewing!

SasuxNaruYamixYugi: Thank you. See you next time as well!

MaggiexxLove: That's so cute! I was thinking that actually and if I make a sequel to MDM, then I want to add more back story and plot to Luca and the Orphans. If I do make a sequel, I'm still planning it out and it will be a while before the first chapter is released. It might come out sometime around early to mid 2016. Again, that's a maybe. I have plenty other fanfics I'd like to post at the moment, and their plot is fully developed unlike the sequels.


	30. Chapter Twenty Nine: Red Velvet

The sun sat in the middle sky, warming the three small cities as the day was just beginning. At the moment, all the snow has finally melted and the day was slowly heating up.

The temperature was rising gradually. Eventually, the three cities would return to it's scorching temperatures. But for now, they took advantage of the winters gift and carried about their days.

In Shiganshina, Eren sat in the front seat, singing along with the pop song on the radio. As Levi recalled it was called Love Me Like You Do, or something like that. By Ellie Goulding. And while the song was nice and something to listen to only to pass time, Levi would give anything to destroy his radio and shove a thick sock in Eren's mouth.

Eren trying to hit high notes was like listening to a banshee screech the national anthem. What made it worse was he was attracting unnecessary and unwanted attention to them. Every so often, heads would turn, glances would be exchange along with questioning whispers and then people would mind their own business and act as if they saw nothing. At least Eren was having fun and the song was coming to an end.

Thank God for that.

Levi pulled to a stop light and tapped impatiently on his wheel. He groaned as Eren continued to boast the off key notes and jam out in the passenger seat. He was over exaggerating his actions too. This kid was all around dramatic.

"Love me like you do, la la love me like you doo. Touch me like you do. Tou-tou-touch me like you do!... What are you waiting foooooor?!"

"For you to shut the fuck up." Levi said irritated. Eren shot him a look then raised a brow. His lips then curled upwards as he leaned closer and said. "Love me like you do-"

"Get out."

"No."

"I mean it."

"Nope." Eren said with a confident smirk. "Why the hell are you singing this?"

"Because it's catchy."

"No, it's not. It's over played garbage."

"You're over played garbage."

"First of all, that was a shitty come back. Second, fuck you. And third, if it's not this song then it's that other song by that country singer what was her name...?"

"Taylor Swift." Eren answered.

"Yes!" Levi let off the break and continued driving through the small city. The car fell silent for a moment. The only sound was the announcer on the radio talking about no more commercial breaks in just a few more minutes.

"What's your point?" Eren asked. He leaned over the car door, fascinated by the road moving quickly under them. Levi turned down the radio.

"Your music choice is shit sometimes." Levi answered.

"And yours isn't?"

"Not entirely. Its not as bad as yours. Remember when you looked through my iPod?"

Eren nodded, glancing over his shoulder before turning back to the old, cracked pavement. "I love your music options, actually. All the rock songs you have, all the classics."

Levi smiled a little. "I hope you fall out the car."

"I hope you have a heart attack."

"Well then, that makes two of us."

"You're an old bat."

"I wonder how it would sound to hear your bones snapping underneath my tires."

"I wonder how it sounds to hear you choking on your dentures."

"Oh, that's cold." Levi chuckled.

"I know. You old bat." Eren smiled. He sat properly in his seat and glanced at the radio.

Levi couldn't even blink until his heart beat against his chest and he jumped at the unexpected loud burst of sound coming from the speakers.

"Fuck Eren!" He groaned. The teen started laughing. Levi turned down the radio. "You almost gave me a heart attack!"

"Almost? Oh, that's a shame. Looks like I'll have to try harder next time, huh?"

"Yeah. At least a semi-decent song is on. I actually really like this one."

"What? Earned it? This isn't even his best song."

"Who is this? Drake?"

"Haha! No! , God, you really are old! I'm gonna have to call you grandpa Levi! Haha, is this Drake... Oh, you're funny."

"Stop bring a little shithead, shithead. Who is this?"

"The Weeknd, Levi. The Weeknd."

Levi nodded approvingly, pursing his lips. "Why don't you sing this song instead of the others?"

Eren shrugs. "It won't annoy you like the other one's will."

"That's true. I actually enjoy this song."

Eren sighed. "Looks like I'll have to get this song off the radio then."

"I'd like to see you try."

Their little argument continued on for a while. After about fifteen minutes of throwing empty threats and insults at each other, Levi finally pulled into a parking spot in front of the orphanage.

Today was the day. Today, Levi lives up to his promises and at the end of the night, Eren will get his special gift. Eren stretched as soon as he slammed the front door. His snapping bones audible. Levi couldn't get a word out before Eren ran off happily towards the front door of the orphanage.

Levi smiled to himself and locked his car, taking his time to catch up to the taller teen.

"Mama Maya, I'm hooome~" Eren sang as he busted through the door.

"Eren?"

"Puppy!" The kids screamed as they all jumped in his arms. He looked around, giving them all individual attention but noticed Luca was nowhere to be found.

"Puppy, come play with me first," Elisa said, pulling on his hand.

"Ew, no. Don't play with her, play with me. Rocket's mine!" Colin argued.

"She's mine."

"He's a boy!"

"Levi said she's a girl!"

"Calm down, my little ones," Maya said as she dried her hands on her apron. The action mimicked Carla and Eren couldn't help but feel a small pang in his chest. Slowly, he brushed off the feeling. Eren smiled before walking up the elder woman and hugging her. "Hi Maya."

"Oh, aren't you being affectionate today? More affectionate than usual, I see." She pulled his cheek. "Where's Levi?"

"Levi? Oh, he's coming. I think. Now that I think about it, I should make sure he didn't croak."

"Eren." Maya scolded. He laughed in response and turned immediately as he heard an uproar from the tiny humans. They all shouted Levi's name and piled onto him much like they did Eren.

Levi groaned. Of course he was being manhandled by a bunch of children. "Okay, okay, you little brats. Calm down."

Hellos were exchanged and soon enough, the small home settled down. Eren sat on the carpet, playing with the little children. They played with building blocks and toy cars. Another reason why Eren's still a kid. Levi sat on a stool in the kitchen, trying to organize everything for today.

For now, he scrolled through Google looking for the nearest aquarium in the area.

Maya was in the shower meaning Levi would have to watch over the children. Even though he wasn't paying much attention to them. He was far too busy slaving away on his phone. Rose is the only city that has an aquarium. Surprising since Sina thinks they're top dogs and the best of all three locations.

Maybe he could call ahead of time to make reservations...

His phone rang. His caller ID read Mikasa and swiping the answer button to the right, he said, "Hello Mikasa."

"Hey. I just wanted to say since I couldn't get this done all by myself, I invited Eren's friends over to help me."

"Oh, ok, that's fine. How far along are you?"

"We're keeping good time actually. I'll be done by say... Sundown?"

Levi nodded on the other end. "Sounds great. Oh, and Mikasa, before I forget. This may sound strange but would you mind buying a fish tank?"

"A fish tank?" She questioned.

Levi peeped over the counter to see if Eren was listening. He was listening to everything but Levi's conversation, thankfully.

He continued. "Yes. Eren brought home a bag of female Betta Fish home from the fair a few nights ago. They're still sitting in a bowl for now but Eren's becoming pissy about it. I'll pay you back the money, we just need a tank."

The line went silent for a moment. Only thing audible was the rowdy teenage kids in the background ground messing around. "Okay," Mikasa finally said. "How big a tank do you think you need?"

"I'd say around... Five... Maybe six or seven gallons at max?"

"How about ten gallons?"

"Knock yourself out," Levi said nonchalantly. "But please do keep in mind that it needs to be filtered and they need food and water treatment and all that other shit."

"Don't worry, I won't forget. Anything else?"

"No, that's should be it for now. I'm going to take everyone out to breakfast then we'll head over to the aquarium."

"Alright. I'll see you tonight."

"Bye Mikasa." With that, Levi hung up. He heard Maya enter the kitchen and he turned. "Are you ready to go?"

"Yes." Levi answered simply.

"We're going to have to take the bus. I think it'd be much easier instead of us all squeezing inside your car, yes?"

Fuck he hated the bus..

But then again, in this moment, Maya had a point. He could handle ten minutes to the store with the kids in tow complaining. However, not a whole hour. So, once he came down to his confirming thoughts, reluctantly, he nodded his head and pushed aside his disagreements. "Sure, I don't think it'll be too much of a problem."

**~•~**

Not that Levi has anything against the bus system in this town... But Levi definitely has something against this shitty bus system. Not only was it crowded and filthy, but, it was hot and not air conditioned. And at one point, the bus became too crowded.

It got to the point where Levi gave up his seat to an expecting mother and stood instead.

God, did he regret that within minutes. He became nauseous from the bus making careless turns and hitting bumps and jerky stops. His car over the bus any day. No questions asked.

After forty minutes of being a punching bag, they finally got off. Literally three and a half blocks away from the fucking aquarium.

So they walked. Eventually, Levi calmed down a little. He was happy to see everybody having fun and enjoying their day. No reason for Levi to be a downer and bring down everybody else's happiness.

Once they reached the aquarium, Levi nearly choked on his own spit.

The fucking garbage on the ground was beyond him. Filthy pieces of trash blew with wind and marked the grounds. There are literally trash cans everywhere in this area and people don't have public decency nor respect?

Hell, Levi would volunteer to clean up this mess if he has to. A hand on his tense shoulder calms him down tremendously. His head whips around and he shifted into gear.

"Are you alright Levi? You just froze."

"Look around, brat..."

A small chuckle. "Yeah, I know. It's kinda funny if you ask me. Seeing you all moody and shit. Its really cute~" Eren cooed, playing with Levi's cheek.

"I will bite your hand off."

"So cute. Come on, Levi, I can't wait to see all the brilliant fish!"

Eren's hand slithered down and found purchase on Levi's hand dragging the smaller, but older male along. Once they got in line, it moved rather fast. Levi of course was happy for the lines pace and before they knew it, they were at the ticket booth and past the large columns, you could see the aquarium.

"Welcome to Rose Fish Aquarium. How many adults, how many children?"

Levi stared past the columns. His thin eyebrows raising slowly as he narrowed his options in his head. He blinked twice and shook his head slowly. "Sir?" What was the point of coming here? This place doesn't look like it can hold more than about five hundred people at max... Nothing spectacular. "Sir?" This place is a mess, it's filthy, it smells like the men's bathroom at the county fair-

"Sir!?" Levi looked at the man. His eyes narrowed. "My apologizes, what did you say?"

"How many adults, how many children?"

"Uh, two adults and seven children." Levi answered, already taking out his wallet. The man took note on the cash that stuck out his wallet and the amount of credit cards he had. Now that the worker thought about it, the clothes Levi wore looked awful expensive. All brand names. Even the person himself looked familiar. But, Levi wore his hoodie snuggled on him and his infamous sunshades. Even Eren refused to make direct eye contact with the man and kept his head down in either his phone or on the kids and Maya.

The man smirked slowly. "That'll be three hundred and forty five dollars plus tax." The man smiled. If was almost as if Levi was possessed by a demon, because his eyes shot up quicker than they could blink. He started the man down for a minute before mumbling a small, "Pardon me?"

"Three hundred and forty five dollars plus tax," the man repeated coolly.

"Um, no. I believe we have a mistake. I said seven kids and two adults."

"Two adults? Hey, I'm freaking nineteen!" Eren yelled, annoyed.

"Ok, fine. Three adults and six children, but there's no way in hell it totals three hundred and forty dollars."

The man coughed, as if clearing his throat. "Forty five dollars," he clarified, clearly being an annoying smartass. "And since there are three adults, the admission fee is now three-sixty plus tax. Pay up."

"Fuck that. Can you not fucking add? Clearly admission for children is ten dollars so that's sixty plus fifteen dollars per adult. Add that up, and it should be no more than at least one hundred and five dollars, one-ten at max."

"Actually. Those admission prices changed about six months ago." The man lied with a cocky smile. "Pay up or I'll call the cops."

"Don't start that shit with me. Call the fucking cops, see if I care. Come on, fuck this, I'll take these brats and Maya somewhere else. Fucking con artist, three hundred bucks my ass." Levi ranted angrily. As he continued his quiet rants, Eren took the time to glance at the ticket distributor. There was something... Off about the teen. There's just something Eren can't seem to put his finger on about him.

"Eren, quit dozing off into space we've got a long ass walk." Levi called grumpily. Eren's head snapped towards Levi. "Coming!" He called. He bounced in place once, getting ready to run. But before he ran off, he took a double take at the teen one last time.

There was definitely something wrong.

**~•~**

As they rode the bus, Levi sat on his phone looking for other aquariums. Just because one place wanted to shit on their day doesn't mean Levi has to let it.

The only aquarium that was anywhere near Rose or even Sina was an aquarium called, Aqua Waterland. The only downside is its past Sina. Way past Sina. Exactly three cities past Sina and towards the desert areas. From what Levi could tell, the aquarium was on the outskirts of the city. More towards the rural areas of the cities. That would be at least three hours and about fifteen minutes in the car... They would have to get off at the bus stop a mile and a half away from Sinadonna Lakes and they would have to get to his house by foot. But then again, there is no way he would drive three hours with them all crammed in the Mustang. With the roof down or not. Not happening.

They could ride in the Bentley? Oh no, that's not happening either. They could take the... No, its only a two seater. Levi chewed the inside of his cheek and started thinking. There's no way they can take any of his cars... Maybe he could rent a car or a van or something... Damn it, a car rental place is even further out their way.

Unless they drive to the one in Sina? But then who would drive his car back to his house? There's no way he's leaving his car with anybody besides close and deeply trusted acquaintances and family. Well, he could always ask Mikasa to pick it up for him. But then how would she get home?

... Wait a second...

He took his phone out his pocket. He cursed silently when the bus hit a bump followed by a sharp right turn and he almost dropped his phone. Almost. Thank God for his quick reflexes.

He held his phone close, glaring at the bus driver momentarily before unlocking his screen, typing in the pass code and going into his contacts.

He found Mikasa contact within seconds and dialed her. Levi walked along the walkway of the bus and towards the back of the bus. He held on the seats for leisure. "Hello, Levi, how is everything, how's your day going?"

"Kinda shitty. Its like being constipated. Anyway, I need to ask you a favor."

A short sigh, followed by a slightly annoyed, "What, Levi?"

"I need to borrow your car." He said bluntly. No point in beating around the bush, right?

"Right now?"

"Not exactly at this moment, but in about twenty minutes or so?" He estimated.

"I... I don't think I can have the car over to you in such short time frame. I literally just left the pet shop like five minutes ago. I spent almost an hour searching for everything and another thirty minutes in line," from the sound of it, Mikasa moved her phone away from her ear. The line went quiet for a moment and Mikasa most likely swapped ears.

"I'm driving back right now. Hopefully the others haven't slacked off and remained productive while I was out. Most likely not though. Anyways," she said stretching out the word, "anyways."

"Why do you need my car? You have plenty in the garage."

"I know," Levi admitted, looking over his shoulder to make sure nobody was eavesdropping. "But, I have Maya and the kids over and I can't transport everybody over to the aquarium."

"I thought you were going to the one in Rose?" Mikasa questioned. By the sound of her voice, she sound tired and out of it. "I was, however, the admission clerk wanted to charge me three hundred for admission. So we left and now we're headed to the next closest one which is Aqua Waterland."

"Aqua Waterland? That's in Winter Springs, that's literally a four hour drive."

"Uh, Mikasa, not to be a smartass but its a three hour and a half drive."

Mikasa remained silent for a moment. "That doesn't make a difference, Levi."

He chuckled softly. "Who is Maya and the kids? Also, why have I not been introduced to them?"

"Oh, she's a woman who runs the orphanage in Shiganshina. Eren and I befriended her about a year back. And it hasn't exactly ran through my mind. I never thought about you meeting her. I'm sorry."

"Don't worry, its not a big deal... But I'd still like to meet her,"

"That's no problem," Levi said. "I've said a few choice words for you. She'd also like to meet you, believe me." Levi laughed softly.

"Hey uh, Levi," Mikasa said, her phone slipping off her shoulder a little as she made a slowing turn. "I'm gonna call you back, okay? Give me about ten minutes or so to unload the back trunk and I'll bring the car over to you."

"Really? Thanks Mikasa."

"Don't mention it. I'm taking the Mercedes."

"Whichever car you want, you can take."

"Good. Anyway, I gotta go. See you in about an hour probably?"

"Mhm," Levi hummed, taking her words into consideration. "I'll see you then. Meet me at my house, okay?"

"Sure thing."

**~•~**

By the time they got home, it was almost noon. Levi instructed everybody to take off their shoes before entering his home and let me tell you, the awestruck looks he got from his guest was amazing.

Levi even felt proud a little. Knowing that the kids and Maya were more than happy to be out their small home and into a much larger, spacious one. They ran around to Levi's dismay, but once ground rules were set, Eren was more than happy to play with the small humans.

Levi peeled off his jacket and ushered himself to his room to change into a simple black tank to relax a bit. He back down stairs and noticed Eren and the kids talking to each other. Levi laughed when he heard, "Stay away from that demon cat, Isabel. She's evil and a demon."

Eren will never change, will he?

He walked into the kitchen and took a seat at the island. He glanced at his phone to see he had a message. He looked at his phone and saw it was from an unknown number.

Not only did he get a message, but also a voicemail and a missed call. He decided to ignore the message for now and glanced at the time. It was only four minutes past noon.

His phone rang and immediately he answered it.

"I'm here. I just pulled into your driveway."

"Ok." Levi said quickly. He said a quick bye and rounded everybody up in the living room and opened the door for Mikasa.

Man, did she look exhausted. Her hair was slightly disheveled and her usually stoic face was laced with fatigue and annoyance. She smiled gently and laced her arms around her brother for a small period of time.

"Did you get hit by a train on the way here?" Levi asked sarcastically. She walked past him, but not without giving him a look. "You look like shit,"

Her eyes narrowed and her lips thinned.

"Beautiful shit," he said teasingly. She rolled her eyes, humored by her brother's strange jokes.

"No, I'm just tired. I can't wait for this day to end so I can curl up and go to sleep," she walked into the living room, combing out the kinks in her hair with her fingers. She was graced with an elder woman, Eren and kids playing with Levi's so called "demon" pet.

"Are you Maya?" Mikasa asked, extending her hand. "Pleasure to meet you." Maya smiled in return, shaking Mikasa's hand. "Same to you...?" She urged Mikasa to go on.

"Mikasa," she said. The woman took note on how fragile Maya hand seemed to be. Delicate bones and soft skin.

"Eren, front and center," she called. The teen looked up and was on his feet, standing before the woman with his matching height. "So, am I supposed to just walk in and you not greet me?"

It made Eren's heart skip a little, those words mimicking his mothers.

He smiled softly. "Hey Mikasa," he kissed her cheek then punched her arm playfully. "Did that hurt?"

"I'm pretty sure with that type of strength you couldn't harm a fly."

"Puppy, who's this?" Colin asked, giggling on Eren's hand. He looked down at the small humans who looked up at Mikasa with curious eyes.

"She's Levi's sister. Mikasa, this is Colin, Elisa, Isaiah, Ethan and Leah... But she likes to be called frog girl."

The kids all put their weight against her legs. She looked around slightly confused and looked at Eren. "I'm not good with kids."

"Neither is Levi."

"I believe its a family trait."

"But you guys aren't related..." She shrugged. "We've known each other long enough."

Finally, Levi waltz into the living room. "Alright brats," Levi calls with a cl hasp of his hands. "Head on outside and I'll be there in a moment," once everybody left, Levi began.

"How far along is Eren's gift?"

"We need a few more hours. Other than that, its coming along great. Reiner and Bert have finished painting and Annie is out still buying decorations. You want ocean colored scheme, correct?"

"Yes."

"Ok, then check that off the list too. I've left Sasha, Christa, and Ymir in charge of decorating it and Connie and Armin are cleaning up, so we're that far ahead as well. Please be home before midnight. You're very far away and you're passing though a few bad parts of town."

Levi smiled at Mikasa's caring nature and kissed her forehead for reassurance. "We'll be safe, don't worry yourself."

"The only thing I'm gonna worry about is how you're gonna see over the wheel."

Levi's face bunched up and he scoffed. "I can see just fine over the wheel for your information. I'll be fine." He brushed off nonchalantly.

"I'll have Eren steer while you push the pedals," she laughed, ruffling his hair.

Levi rolled his eyes and pushed her away gently. "Be home before midnight, right?"

Mikasa nodded. She walked past Levi towards his garage. "Yes... You know how to start my car right?"

"Same way I start all the others. Hold down the brake and push start."

"Good. I'll see you tonight then." She waved off.

**~•~**

Within a good half hour drive, Mikasa finally got to her destination, she turned off her brothers car and took a small breath. She opened the door and headed towards the group of teenagers who all exchanged laughter, !made jokes while keeping up their tasks at hand.

"Good to see you're all working attentively. Reiner, how's the fish tank coming along?" Mikasa asked.

"It's uh..." He said with a slight grunt. "Its givin' some problems, nothing I can't handle. A few more tugs at this baby and she'll be up and running."

Mikasa nodded, approving his words. She then walked past Armin and Annie whom both said a quick hello before Armin went back to rambling on about something while Annie listened attentively.

She then walked past Ymir and Christa whom both painted fine, dedicated strokes, Christa's laughter filling the air. She then skimmed by Sasha and Connie who also remained on task, surprisingly.

Soon enough, she ended back where she started. She waltzed back over to the fish tank and ran her fingers along the lid and filter. "Alright, I think she's all set," Reiner plugged in the filter and lighting into a nearby socket and immediately, an almost inaudible buzzing clicked on along with the lighting.

"Alright, Bertie, you can fill it up." The taller boy smiled and did as told, Reiner also picked up a large gallon of water and began pouring it in. Only two five gallon water bottles was all it took to get the tank up in running.

Reiner high fived Bert and Mikasa nodded approvingly. "Alright, good," she looked at the time on her phone then at the others who were distracted by their duties. She turned to Reiner and Bert and said, "You can go take a break for now. Thanks for the help. But after about ten minutes, I want you back to work."

The blonde nodded. "No problem. I'm gonna help Connie and Sasha."

"I'm gonna go help Annie." Bert said with a smile. He walked over to the duo of blondes with Reiner following closely in pursuit behind.

Mikasa sighed heavily. Exhaustion and hunger starting to take a toll on her body. It was already half past seven and they should be at Aqua Waterland by now. As far as she knows, the park closes at 9:30. They should be home around twelve to her dismay. She decided to take a seat and rest for a little.

She watched as everyone worked dutiful. Occasionally stopping to joke around and throw a few retorts at each other. Mikasa even laughed at a few of them.

Around eight fifteen is when Jean and Marco walked through the door. Jean of course the first the one to speak.

"We brought McDonalds." Jean announced. Everyone groaned approvingly. Everyone gathered around Jean and his freckled friend.

"Uh.." Jean hummed for a short moment. "Reiner this is yours, Bert this is yours, salad and a burger for Christa, Quarter Pounder and fries for Ymir , Sash, Con, you both wanted a Big Mac, right-?"

"Jean, what the fuck is this?" Ymir called.

Jean looked back at the seething freckled girl. "Your food."

"I asked for a Quarter Pounder, not a regular cheese burger and fries."

"Its not just any cheese burger, its a Mcdouble," Ymir was literally a second away from hitting Jean but he continued, cutting her off completely. "You can make it into a Quarter Pounder by adding fries-"

"Ymir's right. This isn't a Big Mac... This is two cheeseburgers put together," Connie said. "But hell, food is food." Both Sasha and Connie began digging in despite Jean's incompetence.

"See, they're grateful for their food. What about you?"

"They are fucking pigs!" Ymir shouted. "You said food's on you, just give you what we wanted!"

"Yes. However, I never said I could afford it."

"You went to fucking McDonalds, you cheap bitch!"

"Yes. And when I said food's on me, give me what you want, I will bring it back, I never said I _guarantee_ I'll bring it back." Jean dismissed with a wave of his finger.

Ymir grabbed his collar and pushed him up against the wall. "I will not hesitate to choke you."

"Shh, calm down, Ymir," Christa's small, gentle hand rested against Ymir's tense shoulder. Automatically, Ymir visibly relaxed and her grip on Jean loosened go the point where he landed on his slightly shaken knees.

"I'll buy you a Quarter Pounder tonight, okay?"

Ymir shook her head and kissed Christa's forehead. "Don't try to fix his problems. I'll buy you a proper meal when Jaeger and his toddler boyfriend bring their asses here. Valentines Day treat." Ymir cooed, kissing her cheek.

Jean stuck a finger in his throat, pretending to gag. "Get a room,"

"Shut the fuck up. Don't feign homosexuality. We all know freckles over there tossed your salad."

Marco's face burned red immediately as well as Jean's.

"That's not fucking true!" Jean exclaimed, ready to stand his ground against the scary teen.

"Could've fooled me. No wonder why his breath smells like horse shit."

"My breath doesn't smell like horse shit..." Marco defended, putting his milkshake and fries next to him. He uncrossed his legs and walked up behind Jean.

Mikasa chuckled under her breath. "She sounded like Levi for a second there." She muttered.

"You know what Ymir, fuck you!"

"Fuck that, I don't fuck horses,"

"I'm not a fucking horse,"

"I've taken pills bigger than your dick." Ymir deadpanned. Her retort completely unexpected yet characteristic.

Laughter erupted, as well as a small snort from Mikasa.

Jean rolled his eyes. "Whatever. You're pissing yourself over nothing."

"You're the one clearly butthurt, Jean. Stop taking dick up your rectum. Hopefully it'll solve your problem. Either that or you're a little bitch."

"Okay, that's enough, Ymir. You've already proved your point so... S-so... Uh..." Shit. Did Marco really say that aloud? And to Ymir of all people. Now he would have to deal with her intimidating glare. Ha... Did it get colder in here.? "I uh... haha..." He rubbed the back of his neck and took a few steps back. He noticed Jean's surprised look and his flushes face. Marco couldn't put his finger on it, but it seemed like gears were clicking in Jean's head. As if coming to a revelation or something...

"I'll be-" he cleared his throat loudly. Piercing the dense atmosphere. "I... I- I'll be over here... Excuse me..." He mumbled. He stepped outside. He really needed to get some air.

He managed to take a seat on the front porch and try to calm himself. What the hell was he thinking? Standing up to Ymir to defend Jean?! He never really liked to disrespect people. He was someone who looked to be seen rather than heard unless necessary. Of course he'll take control of situations but he usually liked to sit back and watch things unfold.

That sudden burst of confidence and anger just flashed through him. And he spoke before he could think.

Either way, no matter how he looked at it, Ymir probably hated him which was a very bad side to be on in terms with her... But then again, he stood up for Jean. He always had a special connection with Jean.

Especially while he and Mikasa were hospitalized. Jean constantly visited the two. Sometimes spending more time with him than Mikasa but Mikasa didn't seem to mind. Jean bought him gifts occasionally and they'd always talk. For hours on end sometimes. Jean has always been there for Marco and vise versa. Maybe it's about time Marco re-payed him-

"Hey uh, Marco..." Marco jumped a little, turning quickly as he was knocked from his thoughts.

"Oh, Jean. It's just you." Marco smiled softly, reassured.

"Yeah.. Do you mind if I sit with you?"

"No, not at all."

Jean nodded and closed the door behind him. The commotion from the inside losing to the silence of the night. The silence shared between the two of them.

Marco was fond and appreciative of the silence for now. Jean however was the opposite. He continued fidgeting and groaning quietly, shifting uncomfortably. A couple of times, he opened his mouth to say something but nothing came out. This continued for a good two and a ha!f minuets.

Marco looked up finally, realizing his friend's body language. He was met with a red face and soft dark eyes.

"Jea-"

"Why did you do that?"

"Do what?"

"Stand up for me."

"W-well... I actually don't really know myself."

"You're really stupid."

Marco's eyes narrowed. Confusion and hurt paint on his face. Was Jean actually mad at him?

"J-jean I-"

"Thankyou." He spluttered out quickly. His words crushed together.

"I'm sorry?"

"Thank you." He repeated slower. "Thank you..." Jean's eyes fell from obvious embarrassment. He refused to make eye contact with his freckled companion.

A small breath exhaled from Marco's nose, not sure what to say. "You're welcome, Jean. I honesty didn't mean to do that. It just slipped out."

"That's why I said you're stupid." Jean moved closer, wanting to close the space between them.

"Oh."

"Yeah..." Jean muttered. His hand brushed over Marco's, eventually settling down upon his. Marco's hand jerked back a little at the unexpected gesture. Simply because he wasn't used to it. But in the end, he felt his heart pooling his ears as Jean only inched closer to him.

"You know... Marco... I'm not sure what I'd do without you," he added an airy, wholehearted laugh before continuing. "You're always there for me... And I think its right I return the kindness to you. You're everything I lack, you freckled fuck."

"J-j-j-jean?! Marco piped, his voice cracking and his face turning redder than a tomato.

"Marco,"

"Yes?" He couldn't control his shaking high voice.

"Shut up." Jean simply said. Their breath practically danced on each other. Both wanting to fell one against the other. It felt as if time slowed and soon, Marco could feel Jean's slightly chapped lips lingering across his own.

Only to be taken away quicker than it got there, followed by a keening cry that startled both of them, a shadow and a feminine dull voice. "I'm leaving right now," she said on the phone.

Marco buried his face into his hands while Jean stood, creating the raven haired woman.

"Heeey, Mikasa baby, I was getting lonely without you." Jean was just beyond desperate now. Despite the lies singing from his mouth, Marco could sense how shaken and fake his affection for Mikasa is now. Even from a few months back he noticed how Jean was slowly drifting away from the gorgeous woman.

"Mikasa, who's that? Is it that-"

"It's just Jean, Levi. As a matter of fact, both him and Marco are coming with me to the store right now."

"What?" Marco questioned.

"Anything for you!" Jean swooned.

Mikasa didn't respond, although she acknowledged him with a soft look.

Marco stood and walked up behind Jean, his fingers ghosting on his waist and his breath danced on his cheek.

"Levi, I literally just came from the pet store and I have to go back?" She sighed as Levi confirmed her question and she scratched the top of her head. "Alright... What do I do with the one I just bought?... Oh... I see... I'll have Reiner move it then, he's not gonna be happy with that. He just it up too." She laughed lightly.

Once she hung up, she began directing orders. Of course Reiner protested against moving the tank he literally set up minutes ago but knowing he wasn't going to win against a woman; more specifically Mikasa, him and Bertolt got to work.

As for Mikasa, Marco and Jean, they had to borrow Ymir's SUV to get the things they needed. The Bentley was absolutely no option for getting all the supplies they needed into the back seat.

Mikasa was the first into the car, setting her foot on the brake, pressing the button and starting it with a long groan.

"Uh, Mikasa, may I ask where we are going?" Marco asked slowly.

Mikasa shifted gears and reversed out quickly, speeding off towards the direction of the pet store. "Eren has an attraction to fish. They're at the aquarium right now and there's an exhibit where you can purchase fish. Levi's gonna need a much bigger tank to house all the fish. The tank downstairs is gonna have to accumulate more than just the Betta fish. But Eren told me they'll be alright. So, we're going to buy a tank that's approximately... I'd say long enough to fit the entire perimeter of the wall."

"Whoa, that's gonna be a big ass tank."

Mikasa nodded. Easing off the gas a little. "Levi said Eren will continue to gradually add fish till the tanks maximum capacity. I'd rather not continue running to the pet store to purchase a larger tank."

Jean hummed. The car fell to a comfortable silence. Marco felt a small smile tug on his lips at his and Jean's closeness. Once he gained enough courage, he looked up shyly. Jean was looking out the window, unaware

of Marco's staring. The freckled boy smiled to himself and gently placed a peck on Jean's cheek.

When Jean's head whipped towards him, Marco pressed his lips against his. It was short, yet intimate. Marco was about to pull away but when Jean's fingers laced in Marco's locks, the two-toned haired man deepened their kiss.

Time seemed to stop for those two. Only the now seemed to matter. In the span of two seconds, the futures of Jean Kirschtien and Marco Bodt changed forever.

**~•~**

"Levi, Levi, Levi, Levi! We have to look at the shark exhibit! Then we should go look at the penguins and the sea otters! Ah, and we can't forget the Orcas!"

"Give me a second, I have to put my credit card away you brat."

An hour and a half into this trip and Eren's enthusiasm hasn't died one bit. You'd think the kids would be more excited. Nothing could compare to the looks and sounds Eren was giving off. Not like Levi wasn't enthusiastic either, he was proud to be in a place where Eren wishes to excel in. However, he didn't think he would be spending almost a grand for fish. How much fish and aquatic specimens did this kid need? He had no problem buying them, it was the amount of fucking fish he bought.

All they're gonna do is swim around, eat and shit. And then the tank is gonna be fucking huge. How they hell are they gonna clean that shit?

And what if Eren didn't do an efficient job cleaning the tank? Then Levi would have to whip out the windex and bleach bottles to clean the damn thing.

Oh, the struggles of Levi Ackerman...

They only had six more hours until the aquarium closes but they plan on finishing the exhibits in about two more hours because of course Eren noticed the big ass waterpark in the back of the aquarium. So, they made a deal.

They would cut their touring time by an hour and a half and have more time to go on slides and splash water on each other. And there is absolutely no way Levi's going in that pool nor any rides. And he especially was staying away from the wave pool. No fucking way he was gonna get dragged on that.

A firm grip on his hand and he was pulled into the opposite direction.

"You're lagging behind Levi! We have to take pictures of the dolphins!" Sure enough, in his hands was one of Levi's unused cameras and an excited grin on his face. If Eren was anybody else, Levi would've said something.

They pushed past crowds, yelling occasional "Excuse me," and "Sorry." After a few more twists and turns, Eren came to a slowing halt. The one thing Levi liked- no actually loved about this aquarium was the fact giant tanks of fish lining the walkways of the the aquarium.

Assortments of different, unique colorful fish assaulted his eyes, each varying in sizes. Some swimming in groups. Some independently.

Levi blinked when he felt warmth leave his hand. He looked away from the large tanks to see Eren off in the distance. His nose pressed up against a glass, his grin ear to ear. Levi smiled to himself and ran to catch up with Eren.

They simply stood in silence, watching the black-footed penguins interact with one another. The penguins waddled over the large rocks and nuzzled each other occasionally.

Levi watches Eren out the corner of his eye and out of nowhere, Eren spoke.

"Do you know those are African Black-Footed Penguins?"

"Hm? Are they really?" Levi asked, his eyes not leaving the animals once. Eren nodded vigorously. "Mhm! And their species are demersus, and they inhabit twenty-four coastal islands off southern Africa between Namibia and Port Elizabeth."

"What else do you know?" Levi egged on Eren's knowledge, becoming interested.

"They are about seventy centimeters long; twenty-seven inches. They can weight six to eight pounds or two to three kilograms. However, males are slightly larger than females. They have black and white feathers, obviously, and look here," Eren pointed to the penguin whom played with sand with it's feet.

"There's a distinctive U-shaped black stripe on the front. You see it?"

Levi smiled slowly. "Yes Eren, I see it."

"Good. Come on," Eren tugged Levi. "I want to see the sea otters now!"

And see the sea otters they did. And Levi learned a lot about marine animals too. Eren was like a walking book on fish philosophy. Every animal they stumbled across, Eren was a whirlwind of facts and information about them.

Yes, another reason why Eren needs to continue his college education. Because Levi is well aware now paying off his tuition will be completely worth it. Can you imagine when this kid graduates?! The jobs he could do, the jobs he could book, what kind of advanced programs and research facilities he could get into! Levi actually feels guilty for pulling him into modeling now.

Levi learned that ghost crabs can hold oxygen in their air sacs for about six weeks and it's hairy legs can make it run up to ten miles per hours, making it the fastest among all crustaceans. The scientific name for Seahorse's are hippocampus and because of their body shape, they're inept swimmers and can easily die from die from exhaustion in storm-roiled seas.

Levi also learned one of the rarest shark is called megamouth shark, megachasma pelagios if you want to get scientific. This shark swims with it's mouth wide open and its mouth can stretch past its eyes. And it has fifty rows of small, shark teeth on each jaw.

And he remembered the scientific name for an African Dwarf Frog is called Hymenochirus. But Levi fucking hates frogs, he didn't even dare get close to it despite it being behind glass. Eren laughed at him yeah, but that wouldn't change the fact he couldn't not stand those creatures. But he had to admit, the dwarf frog does posses beautiful colors and patterns.

They then came around to the back and Levi finally checked his phone. It was rolling around six now. "Levi! Levi! The water park! Look how big it is!" Eren marveled.

"Too bad you don't have a swim suit."

"Yeah..." When Levi heard clinking and shuffling of clothes, he immediately felt the color drain from his face and he dared to look. And of course, Eren was stripped.

"But I have boxers." He smiled. He began to ran towards the ticket booth to Levi's dismay. Of course, strange looks came about his way. But Eren didn't mind, especially with the way he bounced up and down waiting in line.

There was about a good twenty five minute wait until they would finally get to the ticket booth.

Hm. Levi looked around. I wonder where the kids and Maya are... He thought. Hopefully they've moved on from the starfish by now...

It wasn't until another good ten minutes and the line moving up about a quarter of the way did Levi finally get a call. It was from Mikasa of course.

He gave Eren a small smile, muttered an, "excuse me, brat," before slipping out of line and answering the call.

"What's new, Mikasa?"

"Hey, We just finished moving the tank upstairs and we're setting up the new one now. Everyone has finished their tasks and it looks great. Armin ran down to the beach with Annie to get some shells to decorate with. His present is complete and you guys should head home now. Everybody's getting irritated and wanting to head home to spend their Valentine's day."

"Damn it.." Levi muttered under his breath. "Eren's waiting in line to get into the water park. I'm not sure where Maya is... So I might need an extra thirty minutes.. Plus its a three hour drive home."

"Everyone's ready to go home. Including me." She admitted softly.

Levi ran a hand through his ebony locks, glancing at Eren who tugged at the string on his boxers waiting patiently for both Levi and the line to move. "Do you think you can give those brats some candy or something to make 'em stay longer? I swear it might be a while."

"Trust me. You guys should get home asap. Everyone would like to leave,"

"..."

"Is Eren okay? How is he doing, does he like the aquarium?"

"A lot. This kid is a walking encyclopedia for fish."

Mikasa giggled. "He's such a sweet kid. I can't wait to see him tonight."

"I know. But seriously, bribe the little shits to stay a little longer."

"How am I supposed to do that? I mean... They're just bored..."

"Make them play monopoly or something-"

"With what?"

"I don't know. Make them inhale paint or something."

"Connie already has. He's been huffing the gas fumes from paint cans for the past ten minutes now."

"I'm genuinely surprised he hasn't devoured the entire can by now..." Levi mumbled. "Look," he sighed. "Just keep them entertained till we get back. And make sure they don't harm themselves by sniffing paint fumes. Give him a toy or something to keep his ass still."

He heard a faint scratching on the line. "Just please get home soon."

"Will do." Levi dismissed. Now... To get Eren to come home. He walked next to Eren and tapped his shoulder. "Eren, we have to head home now."

"What, why?"

"We just need to go," Levi slipped his hands on Eren's but the boy didn't budget. He opened his mouth as Levi suspected.

"We haven't even gotten inside yet! Levi, you promised we could go to the water park. That's why we cut seeing the sea animals in half."

"We went through the entire aquarium Eren. You literally got pictures of the sink and decor in the restroom."

"The toilet had a fish tank on the back of it. How could I not get pictures of it?!" That uncanny, deranged look on Eren's face was enough to freak Levi out. How the hell could this kid resemble Hanji's psychotic looks? Eren stared down at Levi with a large, animalistic smile with that small fire in his eye that expressed nothing put passion for his career.

"Ok, Eren, please, stop that. You're getting that fucking look..."

"What look?"

"... The Hanji look..."

Eren's face softened dramatically and he back away from Levi. "I dont want to go yet. Please Levi... Can we stay a little longer?" Eren begged, his large sea colored eyes doing their best to win Levi over.

The shorter male put their foreheads together, gently nuzzling their noses together. He didn't care about the looks they received. "Eren," his voice came out like dark velvet. "I understand you'd like to stay but there's something really special waiting for you back at Sina."

"But you promised.."

"I know," Levi cooed, finally wrapping his arms around Eren. "And I promise you this, what you see at home will be even better."

"... You promise?"

"Mhm," Levi hummed. "I promise. And I also promise, after you see your gift, that upcoming Saturday we'll come back here just to come to the water park, okay?"

"Really?!" Eren beamed. His smile wide and bright.

"Yes. Now you little shit, will you come home with me?"

"Of course! You're my ride!" Eren smiled.

Levi rolled his eyes and began walking away. "Put on your damned clothes and let hurry and find Maya."

**~•~**

"What did you get me, Levi?" This question has been asked over a thousand times and they had another good twenty minutes to go until they get to their destination.

And to think Levi held his calm through all of this...

"Yeah, Levi, what did you get puppy?" Elisa asked, snuggling closer to Maya.

"He can't tell you! Its a surprise!"

Levi nods. "Ethan's right." He says simply.

"Am I really!? Ha!" Ethan shouted, throwing his small fist in the air as if he won a prize.

As soon as Levi slowed down to a light, he pulled out his phone and clicked on the recent contact. Only two rings it took until Mikasa's voice came over the phone.

"Hello?"

Levi could hear the sounds of teenagers in the background conversing. Occasional profanity getting tossed around, along with some laughter.

"Hey, we're about fifteen minutes away. We should be there by I'd say close to eleven?"

"Ok, that's fine. We ordered pizza."

"Is there any left?"

"Of course not," she says. "It's impossible to eat now as it is." She laughs "but, once you get here, we can head back to my place and I'll cook us a meal."

"No, it's fine Mikasa. I've already asked so much of you today. I'm not going to ask anymore favors. I already owe you back."

"Don't be foolish. I'm happy to do anything for you and Eren. And you don't owe me anything. Dinner is my treat."

Levi sighed. "I'm not gonna win... Am I?"

"Nope," Levi chuckled then smiled. Because if he knew anything, could tell his little sister was smiling softly on the other end.

**~•~**

As far as Eren could go as taking in his surrounds, all he knew was he's in Sina, and the car was slowing down gradually. Many stores and outlets passed by in Eren's line of view. Maybe Levi was taking him to shop for his surprise?

They stopped in front of a building. He could see people walking around inside.

The car turning off made Eren's head whip towards Levi's direction. The shorter male simply got out the car with a heavy sigh.

It's all or nothing now. This is gonna make or break Eren. And with all Mikasa and the others have done, it would really be damaging if Eren dislikes his present and is only hurt by it.

Everyone followed Levi's pursuit, Eren a little slower than the other's not knowing what waited for them behind the door.

"Maya, you guys can head inside, I'd like to talk to Eren really quick." Maya nodded and ushered herself and the children inside. The sound of Eren's friends quickly erupted and died as quick as it started.

Levi groaned. This wasn't a surprise birthday party...

He took Eren's hand's in his and pulled him away from the building. Gently, he ran his hand through Eren's locks lovingly and hugged him. Resting his head against Eren's chest, he began.

"I can't guarantee you'll like what's behind those doors so I'll tell you this now. I decided... That... I shouldn't let something someone's worked so hard on go to waste... But, the thing is," he stood up straight, holding Eren's hands. "It's yours now. But you have to carry it on. For yours and your mother's sake,"

Before Eren could even react, Levi was already pulling him into the building and before he knew it, his vision was blinded momentarily to the bright lights.

He heard his friends once more and once his eyes adjusted from darkness to the light of the room, he nearly had a heart attack.

Could this really be...

"Welcome to Titan Chronical," he heard Levi say with a smile.

"Make her proud." He said, concluding his little speech from 's eyes were dilated and his mouth ajar in awe. He could see his friends all smiling, some with pizza stained lips. Even Jean smiled at him. His arms laced around not Mikasa but Marco. He took in his surroundings. His passion and his mother's vision combined into one.

There was a wall put up in about six meters away from the door, painted like the large wall his mother talked about. He walked up to the wall and ran his fingertips over the dark gray paint. His fingers running over the detail in the wall. "Wall Maria..." He muttered. "The outermost wall..." He turned on his heel. "Who did this?" He asked his voice cracking. "All of this?"

"All of us." Levi said.

"Well everyone excluding short stuff over there." Ymir said.

Dark glares exchanged from both parties. Their hard staring continued until Mikasa intervened and spoke up. "Levi had just as much to do with this as we did." She said sternly.

"Mikasa's right," Armin said. He hugged Eren briefly and brushed a few strands of hair from his tear filled eyes. "This was Levi's idea, actually."

"Yeah. But I haven't heard the entire story your mother told so Armin let me in on it. I don't know anything about the walls or Titans or the Soldiers."

"And Ymir came up with the layout for all the painting you see around you. She did the designing and she even painted this entire wall," Armin stepped aside and displayed the wall as if he was one of those women in those games shows.

"Took me four hours to complete, Jaeger," she said, her voice strong. "But I guess I was worth it. It looks pretty fuckin' cool if you ask me."

"And your friends had to clean up this shit pen. You guys did a pretty decent job if you ask me. You even managed to get rid of those spiders and cobwebs. Oh, speaking of which," Levi looked at Maya and the kids. "Before you guys can move in and before we open if up to the public, I'd like to have this place fully inspected for any bugs or other pest that might be lingering around."

"Levi, we had this place terminated. There's no way there's anything still alive," Mikasa cut in.

Levi shrugged. "You never know."

"Wait, did you say move in?" Maya asked slowly. Levi looked at her and nodded, his expression blank and unreadable. "Yes."

Even Eren's head turned around and a small smile was on his face. "Levi..."

"What? I'm being serious. There's a room behind back that leads upstairs. It's not a grand space but it'll be big enough. Plus you guys can come down here during the day. See, it works for everybody."

Again with the tears rolling down Eren's face. Armin hugged him tight with a smile across his face. Even Mikasa walked up and hugged him tight, kidding his forehead. He kept muttering "Thanks you," like a broken record.

"Come on, now, let's move this sap story along," Ymir groaned.

"Yeah," Sasha spoke up. "You never told us if you like it or not."

Eren continued to sniffle. About a few minutes of silence and continuing to do this, he pushed Armin and Mikasa gently away from him and walked up to the regular door inside the wall. He ran his fingers along the door knob. "Of course I love it."

Everybody cheered and clapped, feeling proud of their appreciated hard work.

"However," the room fell almost silent. "This door, needs to go. Can we replace if with a gate type door or something? It doesn't really fit the wall thing."

"Jesus Christ," Ymir muttered. Christa laughed.

"Of course, princess," Levi half joked with a roll of his eyes. "Anything for you."

The sea eyed teen sent a smile over his shoulders towards Levi before turning the knob. But it was locked.

"What the...?" He kept trying the door. An audible jingle of his irritation echoed through the space.

"Its locked, genius," Jean said.

"I know that. Why the hell is it locked?" Eren asks.

"You can't go behind that door yet. Its not finished on that side and we couldn't finish it because we don't have all the materials to finish setting up." Annie said, her voice monotone but her eyes expressive.

"Mhm, Annie's right." Armin answered. "We plan on finishing this tomorrow."

"Yup. But we can't do that on an empty stomach... Can we?" Sasha asked, nudging her way into the conversation. "You're still hungry?!"

"Kinda..." She said coyly, a small small on her face.

"Haha! That's my girl!" Connie laughed.

"You're both fucking pigs." Ymir snorted.

"Now now, I think we can agree we could all go for some food right now." Christa smiled.

"We literally ordered pizza twenty minutes ago." Mikasa stressed.

"Yeah, I'm still pretty starved, too." Levi smirked, ruffling Mikasa's hair playfully. If it was anybody else, she would've broken their fingers. "How about this, its Valentine's Day and you guys did a pretty good job, why don't we head out to dinner. You guys decide."

"Holy shit," Connie exclaimed. "This is our chance!" Sasha cried happily.

"I say we go to a buffet." Jean says. "How does that sound Marco?"

Marco looks up from his shoes then nods. He smiles a little and whispers, "That sounds great."

Jean held Marco's hand and spoke up. "I've heard of a place called Hokkaido and its an Ichiban."

"Isn't that restaurant really high up and expensive?" Eren questioned.

"We'll be fine, brat. Trust me," he turned to Jean. "Hokkaido, you say? That's on the snobby end of Sina..." Levi groaned. "That's about half an hour from here."

"Wait. Are we seriously going there?" Armin asked, slightly shocked.

"Of course. Dinner's on me."

"Are you fucking serious?!" Connie exclaimed.

"Language," Maya scolded, reminding everyone she was still in the room.

"Sorry.." Connie mumbled, rubbing the back of his neck. "So we can buy whatever we want and you'll pay for it?"

"Yes. But there's a limit on you and Ms.I can devour an entire state over there."

Both Connie and Sasha laughed.

"Is it really on you? Because I heard this saying earlier today and got cheated out of my lunch." Ymir growled.

"I don't like to repeat myself." Levi challenged.

"So... Does this mean Jean actually had a good idea for once?" Ymir asked, making an over exaggerated surprised expression.

Marco squeezed Jean's hand.

"That's right." Levi said nonchalantly. "Now come, we're wasting time and I believe Hokkaido closes at one AM. Mikasa, you want to drive your car or-"

"Yes," she answers simply. "Is it okay if I give you guys a ride?" She turns towards Maya, the kids staring up at her. "I'd really like to introduce myself properly and get to know you better."

Maya smiles. "Of course, dear."

"You're kinda hot." The little boy Ethan blurts. An uproar of laughter and Mikasa raises a brow.

"I'm surprised that wasn't horse face who said that." Eren laughs

"Believe me," Levi says inching closer to Eren. "He's moved on."

"Alright, I'm driving," Ymir announces, already walking towards the exit. "I'm sitting in the front!" Reiner calls running behind her. "Hell no! I'm getting to the front!" Connie yells.

"Not if I get there first! Sasha laughs, taking off behind them.

Christa laughs, brushing her hair to her shoulder with a confident smile. " I don't even know why they try. They should know by now that's my seat."

One by one, everyone began leaving the new Titan Chronical. Everyone but Eren and Levi. "Come brat, let's go." Levi turned off the lights was halfway out the door but then he realized Eren wasn't behind him. Eren was too busy taking in the new feeling, the new surrounding's.

It still smelled like fresh paint and the sounds of the filter was barely audible. The walls were painted. A bright blue sky and a heavily detailed painting of the outside world. Vivid green trees, a bright blue ocean and the fish tank was supposed to represent fish in the ocean. Wasn't that hard to figure out.

Even the ceiling was paint a bright baby blue with clouds decorating it. Starting at the painted, dark gray wall was trees and bush, just a detailed type jungle. Then as you made your way towards the exit, it faded off to a sandy beach and glued on the sand was seashells varying in color and size. Some shells even looked buried in the sand thanks to Ymir's amazing illusion skills. Then it inches off to the water... Everything he could've asked for. This was just perfect.

Now who knows what lurks behind that giant wall... What's waiting for him... The world his mother created...

A finger ran under his eye. "You're crying," Levi's voice came out soft. Eren nods and buries his face in Levi's chest. "Thank you! When my mom died, I felt like everything she worked for was gone. And and... And I.. I just.. Thank you.. I love you so much, Levi."

"I love you too, shitstain," he pressed their lips together, locking his arms behind Eren's neck to deepen their kiss. Eren's heart fluttered softly and pattered against his chest. Eren felt weak. He was just so happy. Words can't describe. However, he can't help but feel a small lingering feeling in his chest that felt like emptiness and loneliness. He couldn't quite put his finger on this faint, somewhat dreadful feeling. But it was just a gut feeling, right? Something that he should just put behind him. It was just a feeling to brush off his shoulder ad get over; something to just ignore. It was nothing. Eren soon broke away, panting softly as he buried his face in Levi's collarbone and continued to cry softly.

"Levi..."

"Yes?"

"Please don't ever leave me..."

"I won't," he wrapped his arms around Eren and kissed his nose. They stayed like this for a while, embracing each other's warmth. Not wanting to let each other go.

"I won't ever let you go."

* * *

A/N: Oh my fucking God! Literally almost three months to update! I'm soo ashamed! I promise you guys I'll update sooner. It's finally Summer! So, I'm gonna update sooner! I'm so excited to post the last chapters for you guys to enjoy! I started writing this one about two months back before School came out for Summer but, it never saved and after that, I lost inspiration for typing this chapter, and I began planning and typing other fanfics for this fandom. And recently, literally two days ago, I found the will to continue this chapter and now, I'm finished. I feel like I rushed this... and I didn't add as much detail as I'd like but I can make it up next chapter. I promise. I'm so sorry to have kept you guys waiting so long, but here it is now. Ahh! I threw some JeanMarco in there and God, I feel like I rushed their relationship a little but it was foreshadowed... or bluntly visible from past chapters. Lmao, I still like I should've had added JeanxMarco in there but whatever, I still did. :P

Thank you all for remaining so supportive and encouraging to this story, like seriously, thanks my little Blueberries, I don't know what I would do without you guys!

I can't keep you guys here longer! Enjoy your Independence Day! Have fun and stay safe! I nearly got burned by sparklers earlier so it's all good!

Till next time, my lovelies!

Review response: StrawBerry234: Thanks for the sweet review!

abuseSjcb: Haha, I'll try to update sooner! Sooo sorry for leaving you on the edge like that! Well... That's what Levi did for Valentines Day! And Best fanfic is really sweet, honestly! Thank you. But sadly, like all great things, this one must come to an end too. And a fair warning, it's close. And it makes me sad thinking about it.

ShouraiLink: I've sorta been neglecting this one for a while... I lost some inspiration halfway through... and I just ended up working on other fanfics I plan on releasing after this one. But I'm excited I finished this chapter! And I plan on finishing MDM soon. And it warms my heart that this story has some sort of connection with this story,despite it's errors. It makes me really happy, like you don't even know!

Guest: Yeah, I actually kinda like Petra and Auruo. But don't worry, they'll both be back soon enough... And yes, it's almost over. I'd say about... five more chapters plus an epilogue and then that's it. Time for my other works to grace the internet! Thanks for reviewing!

Natsumi-Tetsuya: Eren loves them! Seriously, this kid is a dork!

Mitchell343e: And now, we get some Ereri feels in this chapter! And yeah... my family thinks I'm crazy... And I knew someone was gonna freak out when they read that line. At first, I was gonna have something happen to Eren and I'm like, the story is just gonna get longer and we only need fluffy feels from now on! And sorry for keeping you waiting...

Estine 13624: Lmao, you say that every chapter :) again, thanks for reviewing.


	31. Chapter Thirty: Cinnamon Rolls

"Guess what, Eren?!" Sasha called.

"What?"

"Guess who's working on our uniforms!?" She sang happily.

"Uniforms? What are you-"

The very next day, everyone woke up bright and early to meet Eren and Levi at the new Titan Chronical. Mikasa and Levi went down to the hardware store to find the rest of the material needed to continue working behind the wall.

Ymir worked on unhinging the door princess Eren disliked while Annie and Connie ran down to the store to get a gate door Eren wanted. Maya and the kids were at the orphanage packing up everything to move into their new home. Jean and Marco cleaned up the mess of donut boxes and occasionally helped Ymir.

"Look, I have it all sketched out," she ran into him, slamming her arm around his shoulder and puling him close. And action identical to Hanji. Her breath smelled like pepperoni and sprite. "I was thinking... Since I'm taking a design course, I reeeally wanted to do our work uniforms so this is what I've come up with. This one is a Titan uniform. Literally we walk around like we're skinless! See. This one is Annie's, she's called the Female Titan. Pretty hot right?"

"Um... Sure...?" Eren said slowly and awkwardly.

"And this one is based off Reiner, and I call it the Armored Titan after that amazing drink recipe your mom came up with. Remember? The one with the chocolate bits and all the sweet crunchy stuff in it and the sticky caramel and marshmallow at the bottom?!" How could he forget? It was a popular menu choice, after all.

"Sash, I like the idea and all but I don't really think people want costumers serviced by skinless Titans. The whole skinless thing is gonna throw it off. I-its a good idea, honestly... But.. How are people gonna react to them dressed up in muscled body suits?"

"And people are perverts." Ymir added.

"Agreed. I think a tight fitted skin suit will lead to problems for our female workers." Armin said.

"Alright then, we don't have to do that," Sasha skipped a few pages then her finger slammed down on another design. "Okay, I have another idea. How about Christa is the Queen... Or King, whichever she prefers, and she's the ruler of the walls?! I have this dress design and everything! We can all be knights and her loyal guard dogs and stuff."

"I like that idea. My little Christa as Queen, you'd look so gorgeous!" Ymir cooed.

"I agree. She'd look really beautiful."

"Shut up, Reiner," Ymir deadpanned, tugging the small blonde close to her.

"Okay, so maybe not that one... We might have some problems. Oh, but, here's another I have," she again began flipping pages. But it soon, something caught his interest. "Wait, Sasha, go back."

"Which one?"

Eren took the book from her. Flipping backwards until he saw it. "I like this one."

He handed her the book and confusion took over her face. "Really? This one isn't even my best... It was quick sketch."

Eren nods. "It's perfect. It looks like something the soldier's would've worn if this was the Titan's time. It just needs a little more."

Sasha blinked a few times. "Hm. Ok. Well... How about we add a jacket or something?"

Eren nods slowly. "Yeah... And maybe a logo or something?"

"You mean like a Titan?"

"Haha, no. Why would we have a picture of the enemy on our uniform?" Eren laughed.

"Hm... You're right... Well um... How about our uniform represents the soldiers? Like the workers are soldiers!"

"That's actually not a bad idea... Really creative."

"And, maybe, for a logo we can have the uh... Um... What was the three branches called? I remember one was the Military Police, right?"

Eren nods. "Yes. And there's also the Stationary Guards and The Survey Corps."

"Ok. So, let's do something like this. I'll think of three symbols and let's put them... Um... One on each shoulder and a large embellishment on the back?"

"I like that," Eren smiled. "My mom also said something about Vertical Maneuver Gear or 3DMG? I'm thinking, why not try to incorporate that into our uniform?"

"Oh my God, yes! I love the 3DMG, it sounds so cool!" Sasha beamed. "Ok, so, it's a full body harness, let's maybe put a strap across the chest and on the sides like this... No, like this. The first way looks uncomfortable. And then, I can make a belt type thing to go on the hips. Then... We can.. Hm... Let's do thigh bondage!"

"No!" Marco shouted.

"I think its a good idea," Jean said, with a wiggle of his eyebrow.

"Wouldn't that be uncomfortable?! This isn't a BDSM cafe!"

"It can be," Jean spit out quickly.

"Keep your kinky shit to yourself." Ymir said with a roll of her eyes. She took down the door finally and lifted it, carrying it to the side and setting it against the wall.

"No no, Marco, you got it all wrong. This isn't BDSM in anyway," Sasha laughed. "Its not gonna be sexual and it won't be uncomfortable trust me. Plus it it makes you feel better, you won't even have to wear the bottom part."

"I don't have a problem with it... I just don't want it to become uncomfortable."

"Believe me, I'll make it as comfortable as humanly possible. Okay, so, the bottom of the harness is going to look like this. And maybe we'll strap it to the bottom of our feet so it'll hold better?"

"Sure."

"Alright then. All we gotta do is get everybody else to agree and we got uniforms. Oh! And I'll have to take each of your measurements." Sasha opened up a fresh page and began sketching again.

Eren took the last bite of his sandwich before sipping some passion fruit flavored ice tea. He watched his friends all remain productive while he sat on the floor next to the fish tank, his head against the glass. He didn't know why, but he just felt... Down. Like something was just twisting in the pit of his stomach. It was more of a concern now because he's been having these same gut feelings for the past two days now. Wasn't it just a gut feeing that would come and go?

**~•~**

Its officially been four weeks since the cafe has opened. It's finally the month of March and in and out many costumers have returned to the new Titan Chronical, or as it been renamed, Attack on Titan Café, for both the unique and truly fascinating décor and of course, the recipes. Eren remember a few. He remembered the basics, of course. But, most of the recipes, they couldn't mimic. Not even remembered a few of his mother's favorites which bothered him to no end.

Although, Mikasa knew a few and so did Marco so it somewhat worked out in the end. Plus, they managed to add a few knew drink options to the menu.

As Eren opened the door on the side of the kitchen, he pulled on his work uniform jacket Sasha created almost effortlessly. He really loved the jacket. It was quite possibly his favorite part of the entire uniform. He ran his hand over the emblem constantly. The same tattoo which painted Levi's back was the design for the Survey Corps. The Military Police - which Annie, Bert, Marco and Reiner requested to have opposed to the Survey Corps - had a horse (or maybe it was a unicorn?) As their representative. Of course, Jean wanted to have Military Police jacket as well, however, Jean changed his mind and instead requested and aimed for a Survey Corps one instead.

The stationary guard division idea was quickly dropped since nobody could think of a unique design and nobody really wanted to be apart of that brach. The Garrison did pop up in Eren's mind when Sasha asked for a starting design. But everyone thought the idea of roses was too plain. So only two branches remained.

Eren took a seat in the back of the room which was once a plain, dusty room, now transformed into a story telling room almost identical to the one in the old Titan Chronical. The same one Carla used to tell the Attack on Titan story to young children. The teen tugged at the tight leather belts against his thighs, adjusting them.

He looked up when he heard a knock on the door and in walked Levi.

"Mornin' Eren," he greeted. Eren mumbled a small "good morning," and quickly noticed what was in Levi's hand. A cup of tea and a plate of pancakes and eggs. "Sorry, we're all out of bacon," Levi said, already knowing what Eren's about to say.

Immediately, Eren shut his jaw and took the items from Levi. "Tea? Really?"

"We're all out of coffee too,"

"This is a café, Levi. We never run out of coffee." The man rolled his eyes.

"Just drink the damn thing,"

Eren, not opt to argue, silently sipped on the soothing substance. Strangely, the room fell silent. A comfortable silence, yes. But there was a slight, off setting feeling radiating off Levi for some reason. He sat in his usual seat, however, he moved it in front of Eren. He sat down, crossed his arms and legs and leaned back, simply staring at him.

Eren only stared past the rim of the cup. His eyebrow raising slowly trying to read his companion. A blank face. But, emotion is clearly visible. Not many, but possibly one? Maybe worry? No. Pain? Why would Levi be in pain? Maybe it was sympathy?

Eren lowered the cut from his lips and set it next to his untouched pancakes.

"Is something bothering you?" Eren asked.

Levi doesn't respond. He doesn't change his posture, face, or even move. He's so stoic and detached. But his mind's racing, gears are clicking.

"Levi-"

"Luca's been adopted." At that moment, Eren could've sworn his entire world came tumbling down. He just blinked. Unaware of what to say or what to do. Are his ears deceiving him?

"Wh-what?"

"Luca's already been adopted. Some guy came waltzing in yesterday while you were out with Mikasa and Armin and adopted Luca." His voice fell gently, sympathetic almost. "Are you serious?"

So this was that terrible feeling stirring in his stomach... And the feeling in his chest was much worse than that feeling that still lingers in his stomach.

Levi nods his head. "A guy who goes by Ives. I can't exactly remember his first name. His wife came along with him as well. A woman named Marina. They pulled up here around closing time. Looks like their wealthy, if that Porsche had anything to say about it. Looks like the wife is someone high up within the government while the man looks like he owns some type of business. Just a hunch though. However, she did show us her ID and-"

"I dont give a fuck about that! What about Luca!? We were supposed to adopted him Levi! Why didn't you say anything?!"

"Because I couldn't say anything, Eren." He left that sink in for a moment. "I tried, Eren. I really did. But nothing could change their minds and Maya couldn't pass up their offer. Plus, they had paperwork filed for him months before they came to pick him up yesterday."

Eren's face fell. He chewed his bottom lip in defeat. "I want to see him."

"You can't-"

"I want to see him, dammit!" Eren yelled. "He was supposed to be our son. Not theirs."

"I don't understand. What's your infatuation with him?"

This time Eren fell silent. He sat back down and sighed heavily. "He looks just like my mother... He looks just like me... A-and I feel like.. I don't know... It's really weird..."

"What is it? You've said some pretty freaky shit in the past so this can't be that bad."

"I think he has a birthmark identical to my dad's... Or maybe, I'm just seeing things? And while he looks like my dad, he looks like my mom too and I dont know, he looks like a younger brother I've always wanted."

"... I don't want to hit a soft spot, but didn't your mother have a miscarriage when you were younger?" Eren nodded then shook his head. "It's stupid, I know. I was also thinking of trying to get more information from Luca. Like if he knows anybody named Grisha Jaeger. Because I remember him saying something about his father liking to do human experimentation and stupid shit, and it reminded me of my dad and... And.." He looked up at Levi. His face fell dreadfully serious and his eyes narrowed in determination. "And I think he's still alive."

"I thought you said officials found his car at the bottom of the lake, deeming it suicide."

Eren nods slowly. "Yes. But, what if he wanted it to seem that way? What if he's not really dead, just hiding?"

"Why the hell do you want to find the drunk bastard anyway? Didn't he abuse you and your mom when you were younger?" Levi questioned, a thin raise of an elegant brow.

"Yeah..." Eren mused. "I dont know why I'm trying to find him... I just think I want answers about Luca, I suppose? Why does Luca exist if Luca does know something about him?"

Levi remained silent, egging Eren on with the silence.

"A-and I've come to the conclusion. Even if Luca knows nothing about Grisha, I still wanted to take Luca in as my own... I love the other kids, a lot... But Luca looks just like my mom and man, I love how he stares at me sometimes!"

"Don't tell me that kid stole my place in your heart."

"What if he has?" Eren pressed.

Levi faked yawned. "Then you're a pedophile for wanting to fuck a minor."

"Who said I wanted to fuck you?"

"... You already have..."

"Okay, fine, maybe not your spot in my heart but he has a place."

Levi snickered and looked at him pleased. "Good. Because no one is taking my spot."

Eren laughed. "You're seriously thinking of someone else taking your spot in my heart?"

"I hate sharing, brat."

**~•~**

The day at the shop went by as usual. Its been open for a few weeks. And everyday, Eren and Levi would sit down with small groups of children and retell the story of Attack on Titan. Mimicking his mother, same gentle voice, same enthusiasm, same vivid smile and obvious love for their job.

Levi simply sat back, as always, arms crossed, glaring at the sea of children.

"-And there were brave soldiers who fought the Titans without any fear, knowing it was for the better of humanity,"

The kids all stared on. Levi snarled when he saw drool coming out some kids mouth. Was one of those fuckers picking their nose?! Fucking gross...

Levi thought, not hiding his obvious disgust.

"They fought in armies, planned strategic tactics and fought on with the strength of wanting freedom. They fought for change and to regain control over the Titans. To take back the land and happiness that was once theirs but stolen."

"Hey, if there are titans, why are there fishies outside the wall?" A little boy asked, grabbing Levi's attention.

"Well, that's because they're outside the wall. That's what it's like to free and not enslaved inside the walls." Eren explained.

"Mm," Levi hummed nodding. "Also, the titans like to eat fish. That's why the fishies are on the outside instead of in here. If the fish are in here, the Titans will eat them. Do you little shits- I-I mean... Sun...shines... Want that?"

"Levi!" Eren scolds.

"Ooh, he said a bad word." Of course they all said that like a choir.

"No I didn't."

"Yes you did!" The kids all said in unison.

"You called us little shits when you're the little shit!" Colin cried happily, standing and pointing his small, stubby finger at Levi.

Eren just laughs, clearly amused by the situation. Levi on the other hand, keeps his blank face for a moment, allowing those words to sink in and fighting against the laughter raising in his chest. Levi instead smirks and says, "I like this kid."

"Really?!"

"Yeah. But that doesn't change the fact you're disgusting."

"What does disgusting mean?"

"Come on now, don't say that." Eren addresses to Levi. "He's only four."

"And you're approving him making weird shit in the kitchen. You don't make a disgusting thing-"

"It was a potion!" Colin yelled. Levi looked at him with questioning eyes. "A potion- or whatever the hell it was out of dirt, bleach, sprite, egg yolks, uncooked rice, vanilla ice cream and whipped cream into the damn microwave and try to nuke the damn thing. I swear to god, it took all my moral strength and compassion - which I do _not_ have mind you - not to throw Colin-"

"I'm a wizard!"

"_Colin_," he growled through clenched teeth, "Outside and make him sleep under a bridge."

Levi's rant literally had Eren in tears. Literally in tears. And Levi was about two seconds away from choking Eren from thinking any of this was funny. This isn't fucking funny! Levi only glared at Eren and scoffed.

"Again, Levi, he's only four."

"Four my ass,"

"Haha," Eren started laughing. "I have a joke..." He murmured.

"Don't you fucking da-"

"Yo, Eren," Everyone turned their attention to see Ymir, standing in the doorway, her eyes glued on Christa. "Someone's here to see you - hey! I see your eyes, take em off her ass!" The taller woman was replaced with a much shorter woman. One with ginger hair.

She walked in with a soft smile.

Levi felt his heart stop momentarily, Petra being possibly the last person he'd expect to see walk in. The room felt a bit more dense. Silence pooled into Levi's ears as he stared at the woman. He could remember the night of Carla's funeral. He remembered Petra yelling and getting upset because she doesn't know the truth. Maybe she came to get it out of Eren? Not much is gonna come out of that. Levi still hasn't worked up the courage to tell him everything...

He blinked. Taking note on how the woman was taking in the new atmosphere and scenery. Obvious amazement written on her face.

"Hey Petra," Eren stood with a smile and walked over to the woman. "Hi, Eren," she looked up at the taller figure and hugged his frame for a few seconds. "This place looks wonderful. So creative!"

He nods. "Yeah... Thank Ymir for all the paintings. All done by her."

The conversation died down as quickly as it started. She continued to look at the grand details on the walls in awe.

"Say, Petra, what brings you here today? Actually, its been a while since I've last made you a cup of coffee."

"I wanted to talk to you, Eren." She says simply. "I went by Levi's house and didn't get an answer. I was headed into town to do some shopping and here's this little cafe called Attack on Titan, and I just so happen to see Levi's car parked out front. Putting two and two together, I figured you would be here. And my God, what a spectacular job you did! It didn't even cross my mind you'd rebuild Titan Chronical."

"It wasn't my idea, it was Levi's." Eren smiled over his shoulder. Levi gave him a fake smile then proceeded to glance at the woman.

"Come, Eren." Petra says. She turns on her heels and walks the opposite direction.

"Excuse me Corporal," Eren winked at a slightly paled Levi whom faked a soft smile back.

Eren closed the door and guided Petra to a nearby table. The table was made from stone with the military police emblem in the middle of it. She took a seat, her fingers tracing over the colored stone.

"I've seen this before. Its one one for the workers here," she said, looking up. She looked towards the cash registers and pointed at Annie. "The blonde girl with the blue eyes."

"Her name's Annie. She looks mean and at times, she is. But she's pretty cool. She beat my ass back in highschool." He laughed, a little awkwardly but wholeheartedly. Petra giggled a little too before she sighed.

"Look, Eren, I came to apologize," she allowed Eren to look up, letting her know she has his full undivided attention. "I shouldn't have acted so poorly at your mother's funeral. And I truly am sorry."

"Now that I think about it, what was that all about? I've never seen you so upset."

She smiled. "Something was brought up. But I think we should but it behind us-"

Marco came walking up to the table with a friendly smile. "Hello, welcome to Attack on Titan Café is there anything you'd like, ma'am?... And Eren?" Marco handed both of them a menu.

"Just a mango smoothie for me, I guess?" Eren shrugged. "Female Titan sized. I'm gonna get lunch later. Anything you'd like Petra?"

"Hm..." Her eyes scanned over the menu. "I'll take a... What do you recommend?" She asks, setting her menu down.

"Me?" Marco questioned. She nods. "Well, I like the Nutella latte. Especially when you put whipped cream on top and a strawberry. I also like cinnamon coffee cake with brown sugar glaze or cinnamon rolls, those are good too. I also like ice cream. But, since it is lunch, I would suggest trying out one of our sandwiches or soup selections. My favorite drink is citrus berry passion, mango and strawberry smoothie, peach ring tea and raspberry iced tea."

"Healthy options complimentary of my mother," Eren chimed in. "If it was up to me, I would be serving cheeseburgers and fries. Man, I could really go for that right now actually."

Petra laughed. "Give me that citrus berry passion, spicy chicken BLT, chicken and vegetable soup um... Bring me any dessert you seem fit. A big piece. I have a sweet tooth today."

"What size would you like?"

"What sizes are there?"

"To the bottom right on your menu, you'll see our sizes." He says.

Her eyes glance down. "Armored Titan." She closes her menu.

"Yes, Miss." Marco smiled, taking both menus. He began walking away but Petra stopped him. "Make that two BLT's by the way. Thank you."

"You have a big appetite today." Eren smiles. She shrugs and again, the table falls silent. Eren isn't sure what to say to break the silence. Despite either of them minding it. But it felt like he should at least try to make conversation with the woman.

But he knows she's preparing herself to say something. And soon, she does. "As you may know, Auruo and I are engaged and our wedding is coming up. I've already found a dress and I'm almost finished planning our reception." Eren smiled sweetly. He leans forward unintentionally. "That's great, Petra, I hope everything goes well for the both of you... Even though Levi hates Auruo.. b-but don't worry about that, he's in a much more positive mood now. His outlook on life isn't as shitty as it used to be when we first met. But I can't promise he won't be a little upset and I'm sorry if him and Auruo start arguing... Like always..." He laughed awkwardly. His eyes remain down at his folded hands on his lap. She smiled it off and simply says, "Don't worry about it, nothing new. Plus. I can assure you Auruo won't be starting anything."

Marco finally came back around, two drinks in hand. "Smoothie for you and citrus berry for you, miss. Your food should be ready in about twenty minutes." He informs. She nods to his statement. "Oh, and Eren, there's something wrong with the left coffee maker so we're down one."

Eren groaned, scratching the side of his head. "Tell Levi, there's not much I can do."

"Got it. He's in the story room?"

"Yeah," And with that, Marco left. "That coffee maker's been giving us problems since our second day of opening..." He mumbled to himself. "He looked at Petra. "Anyway, continue. As you were saying?"

She sips her drink, allowing the flavor to invade her mouth. The flavor was strong. Much stronger than she expected anyway. Her clicked her tongue, savoring the taste. Instead of responding at the moment, she continued to sip her drink and reached for her purse. She pulled out a white envelope and handed it to Eren. She took her final sips.

"This is really sweet." She compliments. "What's in this?"

"Passion fruit, lemon, strawberries, some orange... Is this your wedding invitation?"

"Yup. I would love to see you and Levi there and it would break my heart if you didn't show up. So, please don't let me down." She said, taking a hold of his hand.

He shakes his head softly. "We won't." He promised.

"The wedding is April 4th. I'm holding a wedding rehearsal April 1st and 2nd, so I'd like it if you guys were there too."

"Oh... Okay... Uh, where's your wedding going to be held?"

"At Everett."

"Everett? I've never heard of that.."

"It's not in Sina. Its about.. An hour and a half away from here I believe. It's a big place, believe me. It's a historical landmark so, it's somewhat like a castle or something?"

"A castle?"

"Something like that."

"Man, you damned rich people..."

"That's funny, Eren," she started with an amused smiled. "You're dating one of America's most beloved icon. You're talking to a clothes designer slash professional photographer. You've been invited to A-list events, earned recognition, you're in media, you even performed with some of the most famous celebrities back in December. You could be considered a rich person too."

"I hate rich people... Snobby rich people. They sicken me..."

The ginger haired woman chuckles. She sips her drink once more. "Seriously, this is really good!"

"Thank you. My mom says thanks."

"My pleasure. Speaking of your mother, you're holding up pretty well without her."

"Yeah... Surprisingly. I still miss her... A lot.. I sometimes cry at night and Levi comforts me." Petra's not exactly sure how to respond to that. So, she rubs her thumb against his hand to reassure him. "But, let's not talk about that... Anything else I should know about your wedding?"

"Everything you need to know is in that envelop," she paused briefly. "But the reception is a completely different thing. Don't tell Levi yet, but you are in the wedding."

"Me?"

"Mhm. I want it to be a surprise for him. I want you to be an usher and a groomsmen."

"A groomsmen? I wouldn't mind being an usher, but isn't a groomsmen a friend of the groom? And I haven't even assisted Aurou in planning or preparing for the big day."

"You're right... But you can help decorate the reception or decorate the getaway car or even act a recourse for confused guest."

"I don't really think I wanna go to the bachelor party..."

"Is that really your biggest concern?" Petra laughed.

"Kinda... That and I don't think that's right."

"Oh, don't be silly, Eren."

He shifted uncomfortably and she sighed. "Look, if it makes you feel better, you don't have to go to the Bachelor Party. But I really want you in the wedding. Plus, Auruo is really adamant about you in there. He even insisted you should be a groomsmen."

Eren thought about it for a moment. Something seemed off. Nothing like that bad feeling from a few days back. Damn it. Now he's thinking about his son. Wait, no wrong noun. His friend. Or mini twin. He just had to think about Luca, huh?

"Two spicy BLT's, chicken and vegetable soup and two double chocolate mousse cakes with a side of ice cream. Anything you two would like? Oh, hey Eren."

He knew that voice. He immediately looked up. "Hey, Armin!"

"Hey. Who's your friend?" He asked, setting down the tray and staring directly at Petra. He smiled.

"This is Petra. Remember the woman who I modeled for back in August?"

"Ah..." He mused, not taking his eyes off her. "I'm Armin, Eren's best friend. Pleased the meet the woman who turned my friend in a celebrity."

"Pleased to meet the friend of the boy I turned into a celebrity." Armin giggled. "I'll come back in a few minutes to pick up the tray." He turned to Eren. "The fish tank in front needs cleaning. I'm not sure if I would call someone or... If you'd like to help me clean it later once your done with your meeting." His voice was inviting to the last one. Of course Armin wanted to clean the tank on his own. With Eren's help of course. The sea eyed teen would feel pretty insulted if Armin cleaned it right in front of him. Armin's tactics and the offer are indeed tempting.

"Wait, a little later. For now, show those people over there around... They look pretty lost.." Eren's voice died down.

"Yes, sir!" Armin laughed soon after he said that. "I love doing that. I'll see you later, nice meeting you Miss Petra." He smiled, walking away, fixing the straps of his uniform to look more presentable.

"That emblem on the back of Armin's jacket. It's different from that girl's. It's different from the emblem on this table."

"He's apart of the Survey Corps, that's why. So am I. Annie's apart of the Military Police, so of course our representatives are different. The Corps logo is also on a few tables much like this one."

Petra ran her fingers over the logo on Eren's shoulder. He heard her make out the words, "The wings of freedom. I've seen this before. Its on Levi... His tattoo.."

Eren looked down. "Yeah..."

She finally moves her hand away and begins eating. Silence again falls between the two. Using the golden silence as an advantage, he opens his invitation and skims over it.

_Petra L. Ral &amp; Auruo A. Bozado_

_Requests the honor of your presence at their marriage_

_On Saturday 4th, April of 2014 at 1:30 in the afternoon._

Eren's eyes snapped up when he heard the woman speak. "Eren, can I have the recipes for this?" Petra asked, shoving mouthfuls of soup into her mouth. Following bites of her sandwich and sips of her drink. "I need to start coming here more often."

"Haha, you should."

Petra was halfway through her lunch before her phone starting ring. "Excuse me, Eren."

She stood up from the table leaving Eren to himself. He looked around. Annie leaned against the counter, listening to Bert and Reiner talk about something, Marco and Jean sat at a table, arm wrestling each other, Marco noticeably stronger than Jean. Eren made a mental note to arm wrestle the horse later. Armin walked by with a few menus in his hand. He made a B-line to the counter and tried to join Annie's, Bert's and Reiner's conversation. He noticed Armin spared a few glances at the blonde woman. Ymir and Christa were cleaning up tables and obviously Sasha and Connie were in the kitchen with Maya making desserts and different foods.

Hm... Maybe one day he'd take a break from the story telling room and help out in front. Looks like everybody was having fun.

"Eren, that was Mikasa. She as well as Hanji and a few others are down at the bridal store shopping for bridesmaids dresses and they need me down there. Turns out our appointment's been pushed back, meaning I'm going to have to speed to get there." She began backing her belongings. She slid her phone into her back pocket and threw her purse over her shoulder.

"C-can I get this to go...?" She asked slowly. "Huh? O-oh sure uh... I'll see if I can find a container to put your soup in."

"I want the sandwiches. Can you give me some more soup if you have any left over... And like two more sandwiches... I didn't have breakfast." She called. Eren jogs to the kitchen and begins searching.

"What're you looking for?" Connie asked. Eren closed the cabinet, a large container in hand. "Do we have any zip lock bags or something?"

"How many do you need?" Maya asked, opening the drawer.

"Um... Maybe about four?" Eren said, scooping large spoonfuls of soup into the large bowl. He snapped the lid on and opened the bottom cabinet to pull out a bag.

Within minutes, Eren was already walking back out, tying the bag as caught sigh of the woman whom stood by the gate door. She looked to be on the phone with someone. "Petra?" He said hushed. She looked at him, smiled, took the bag from him with a quiet "thank you. I'll come back soon, yes?"

Eren nodded. "Please come back soon."

"Oh and your birthday is this Thursday? March 30th?"

"Yeah,"

"Happy Birthday then, love." She kissed his cheek before waving himself off. As soon as she was out the building, he walked with her to the front door, watched her quickly jumped into her Lexus, start up the engine and pull off.

Eren watched her car get smaller in a distance before walking back inside. Out the comer of his eye, he caught sight of the fish tank.

He walked up to it, he put his hand inside to feel some slime along the front glass. "Maybe it does need some touch up..." He mumbled. He retracted his hand and walking inside Titan Chronical. He looked at Armin, the tank flashing in his mind. He would have to come back to do that later. But for now, he had one priority in mind.

"Armin, you wanna clean the fish tank now?"

The blonde's face lit up and he dismissed himself from the conversation_ he disappeared into a back room. He ascended within minutes, two tank scrubbers in hand before he ran towards Eren.

"I've been waiting for the tank to build up a little so we can clean it together," he handed a sponge to Eren. His eyes sparkled with enthusiasm as he jumped up and down. "This is gonna be so much fun! I've always wanted to this with you!"

Eren smiled gently at his best friend. "Thanks Armin. And I wouldn't want to clean a tank with anyone besides you." The blonde giggled and proceeded to get to work with Eren at his side.

Even though Armin talked on and on about college life and his grandfather and occasionally scolded him for not listening, Eren continued to doze off and continue to think about the wedding her has to attend in a few weeks.

"Eren, you're not listening to me-"

"Yes, I am."

"Dont lie to me."

"..." Eren groaned slightly annoyed. "What's bothering you? You know you can talk to me about anything."

"I'm just thinking. Its nothing really. I'm just getting my brain to work."

"That's usually a lot of work from you,"

"I'm not stupid you know," he said, slightly offended.

"I never said you are," Armin challenged.

"Hm. You're good." Armin laughed as a response. They continued to clean off the small amount of grime within the tank. Eren continued to ogle at that fish. Due to the ridiculous amount of fish Eren bought to occupy the tank, the Aquarium happily delivered the unique fish to the café. He watched the Platinum Angelfish swim by without a care in the world. He had to buy this one... He would have to pay Levi back. He owes Levi big time. He would have to work his entire life to pay back the man. But if it actually did mean a lifetime, so be it.

"Hey Eren," Armin's voice fell surprisingly calm. Tranquil almost.

"Hm?"

"Let's say... You grow up. Like.. What if you start a family... Would you forget me?"

"What's with that question?" Eren was clearly caught off guard.

"It's just a passing thought." Armin shrugs it off like its nothing. "I mean... You dont have to answer it."

"No, it's fine... It's just.. You've never asked me something like that..."

A small noise came from the short boy. He keep his gaze on the tank and didn't bother looking his best friend in the eye.

"Well, no. I wouldn't forget you Armin. And even if I do start a family... It wouldn't be for a while; years, actually. I have no plans on settling down yet. And once I do, you're still a major part of my life. I couldn't imagine life without you. You're like a brother..."

Yeah... Armin and Luca... Both Eren's brothers. He wouldn't mind. He would love that more than anything...

Once Armin smiles, Eren smiled.

"Alright.. I'm just making sure." Eren nodded instead of responding.

Hm. Eren would have to think about adopting Armin too, huh?

Haha...

Sounds like a grand idea.

* * *

The end is near... Literally three chapters are left... You've all been good to me... I'm going to miss you all so much!

That is for all the comments, favorites, follows, you know, all the stuff that continues to give me happiness. You all give me happiness. Just knowing you read and enjoy this monstrosity of a first fanfic makes me so unbelievably happy you don't even know. Please prepare for the most sappy, mushy, thank you note and love you guys note at the end of this fic.

My god, I'm ranting...

Again, thanks my little cupcakes for everything. I have a special treat next chapter and it'll be up either tomorrow night or Wednesday morning. I promise! I'm halfway through it!

Anyway, I shouldn't keep you guys here, you got things to do.

Till next time!

Review Response:

PetTheKitten: Thanks for the wishes for my grandma. She's doing alright now, thankfully. Thanks for reviewing as well. As always, grateful.

StrawBerry234: At first, I was gonna do that... Then I got an idea which was explained in this chapter... Thanks for reviewing and the kind words.

Mitchell343e: I understand tour point. You and me both. Snuggling and movie sounds a hella lot better than a walk on the beach. And maaan I wanna bring the ticket booth man back. I have great plans and I can't wait! And yeah. I am thinking Levi's gonna get bank account whilash with spoling Eren so damn much. Little spoiled princess is what he is. My writing skills could improve. I'd love to improve since I read fanfics with much more stronger sentence structure. But time will tell. Lmao, I've thought about become an author before. Maybe, I dont know. But for now, I'm an author online with is perfectly fine with me because people enjoy what I write. And yeah, I'm in Murica now. However, not exactly American born. Thanks for reviewing.

ClockworkMinds: Ereri feels are my favorite! And um... Have I ever expressed how much I really like your username like I have to constantly change mine and yours sounds so cool...

Ern Estine 13624: Thank you. Thanks for reviewing!

Nana3301: we all need a Levi in our lives... Let's be honest.. Thanks btw.


	32. Chapter Thirty One: Gingersnap Cookies

A/N: Smut Alert!

* * *

"Happy Birthday, brat."

"Thank you-"

"Now get the fuck out."

Those were the first words he heard at the break of dawn this morning. Those were the words Eren heard before clothes were thrown st him and he was thrown out Levi's house.

He was already pissed off today. Because when he fell asleep last night, getting a shit ton of affection from Levi, he expected to wake up to warm hugs, breakfast and kisses this morning. Not "Hurry up, get dressed and get the hell out." Plus he didn't have breakfast! This fucking drags.

Maybe he is too sappy?

Maybe he does want too much affectionate shit from Levi.

Either way, he's in a bad mood. And sitting in the back of Ymir's car squished between Reiner, Bert, and Jean wasn't exactly bringing his day. He drank four coups of coffee this morning and he is already on his fifth with absolutely no energy to speak off.

Man, fuck today in the ass.

And Armin isn't here. He was back at the house with Levi right now. He didn't mind being with his friends.. But, watching Jean stare at the pictures of Mikasa he had saved on his phone was really making his spine shiver. Isn't he dating Marco or something...?

Today, the coffee shop is closed. And it's just a day with Eren and his friends. Well, he couldn't be in a complete shit mood, per say. He already knew Levi was planning a surprise birthday party for him. It was waaay too obvious. Plus, his friends brightened his day a little. So instead of a shit mood,he was in a slightly irritated one. Possibility, it is his lack of energy. No breakfast sucks honesty.

**Armin: Hi Eren! Happy Birthday! I'm sorry I'm not there right now... I'm with Mikasa right now trying to buy you a present.**

He smiled once the message came.

**Armin: But I promise, I'll make it up to you tonight.**

Okay, today has definitely gotten better.

**~·~**

"Oh my fuck, Hanji!"

"What?" Her voice pitched with helium from the balloon. She ran around the house like a chicken with its head cut off.

"Cut it with the fucking voices or leave!" She continued to run around the house and laugh.

"You can't kick me out. Hey Levi, Levi-"

"Erwin," Levi said calmly, making the cold eyes look up from his phone. He raised a brow at his calm tone, knowing the short male had something up his sleeve.

Let's see how this one cooks up...

Levi walked to knife block, pulling out the biggest knife to Erwin's displeasure. Of course...

"If you get a call from the city jail in a few days, please don't ignore it," he admired the knife, steel eyes taking in every inch of the sharp object. His mind silently approving the damage it'll do and the job it'll complete. Finally, he looks up past the blade. Eyes narrowed and serious.

"I might need you to talk me out of a murder sentence," he begins walking off nonchalantly, black handle clutching tightly in hand. "Plus, you're good looks will help pursue the jury big time-"

"Levi, get back here."

"No." He stops in his tracks, inhaling deeply.

"I appreciate it dearly when you listen to me,"

"Don't piss yourself. Especially not on my kitchen floor, I just mopped."

"I can control myself, I'll try not too excited," he said sarcastically with a amused smile. "Plus, I'm pleased by the thought you needed my charming looks to get you out your trial." Erwin mused with a pleased smirk. The male placed the knife back where it belongs and leaned up against the counter, head in hands.

"I'm actually going to murder that woman one day. So don't ever lose your charm."

"I'm already shivering with anticipation for that day. I'm trying to contain my excited as we speak."

Levi smiled a little. "Like I said, just don't piss my floors."

"You know, if I'm reading between the lines, you're flirting with me, Mr. Ackerman."

"Yeah, well, I'm not entirely straight. And don't get too comfy, I lov- like Eren, and I wouldn't fuck you. You wouldn't be any fun."

"I heard that little slip up. And in regards to your last statement, that's not what your grandma said,"

"Holy shit Erwin, you fucking gross shit."

The blonde laughed. "Gets you every time. Seriously, thank heavens for your grandma."

Levi shuddered. "Fuck, you're talking like her too. Fucking disgusting, I hope you didn't actually bang her, shitface."

"No. Not at all. As a matter of fact, this Saturday, I got a date with Mariya Kinsella, one of the-"

"World's top scientist, I know Erwin, I know. As long as she's not batshit like Hanji, I'm fine with her..." He paused for a moment. "One headache and four seconds away from homicide and a two heart attacks is enough. That's all I can take," he looked up. "I dont plan on dying young, eyebrows."

Erwin snorted and rolled his eyes. He looked down at his phone once more and continued what he was doing.

"But... I thought you were into actresses,"

"I don't recall saying that,"

"True. Maybe not actresses but there's a certain_ actor_ you're into,"

There isn't a change in Erwin's body language, nor a falter in his current task. But, if anybody can read through that stoic facade like see through glass was both Hanji and Levi.

And Levi knows he's struck him. "What's his name again?" He asks teasingly. "Michael, Marvin, Manny... _Mike_..."

Finally, Erwin puts down his phone and sets it on the counter next to a few of his documents. He laced his hands under his chin and smirked casually. Levi raised a brow, waiting for Erwin to talk. He wasn't one for gossip, but hell, Erwin's love life was about as interesting as the inventing of the toilet to Levi.

So it was pretty damn enticing.

"As observant as always, Levi. Sometimes, you never fail to amaze me."

"Sometimes Hanji is useful," He shrugged. "So, why are you still trying to hook up with every beautiful woman out there? Last week it was Paulina Nadir and the week before that was Angelica Rafi, right? And last time we visited you for the photoshoot, you said something about a uh... Mia Castro or something like that?"

"Close." Erwin's voice is laced with monotone and truistic. "Adonia Castro. And yes, I've taken all those women out to dinner. However, there are no strings attached. I felt... Bored with them. They all have the same bland personality. Nothing that stands out. Mike is... Strange... As a matter of fact, when we met, he... Sniffed me... But he has a tactical mind. He's a quiet man and he's respectable. I'm not one for a relationship though."

"You never have been. You like to hit and run, I bet. Like some playboy." He rolled his eyes.

Erwin chuckled. "I never said that."

All of a sudden, a crash rings through the house and the small chatter dies down. A few seconds following, a loud screech emits from Isabel followed by a pitched, "Oops, sorry Isabel, didn't mean to step on your tail again."

Levi sighed heavily and mumbles a few curses under his breath. "Um, Levi, Hanji broke the vase Eren got you for Valentines Day," Mikasa said, walking into the kitchen with a blown up balloon in hand.

"Seriously?" She nods.

"Thanks for telling me. I'll go and clean it up before she cuts herself- actually, on second thought, push her in it. I have some bleach in the cabinet to pour on her wounds."

She keeps her blank face but her lips thin. "Don't say that. And, Armin's cleaning it up."

"Seriously, that blonde kid has got to be my favorite of Eren's shit friends..." The model mumbled more to himself than the others in the room. "Go ahead and finish setting up. I've got something to take care of, so I'll be put to help you within an hour or so." He dismissed quietly.

She nods once more and leaves the kitchen.

He reaches of the giant knife once more and mumbles, "I'll see you in court Monday, yes?"

**~·~**

The final balloon was finally floating around on the ceiling with the others. Sucks that his ceiling was so fucking high, meaning he would have to wait until the balloons delated themselves...

Or he could use Hanji's sharpened bones? He hasn't played darts in a few years, maybe his aim wasn't the complete and utter shit it used to be. Maybe it is, he won't know until he tries.

Levi wasn't planning on cooking tonight, so he would have to head out and buy something those little shits would eat. So, he decided on pizza and wings. Something simple and something they would all eat. He had no intentions on leaving Hanji home with Erwin while Mikasa and Armin were out shopping, so he threw them out before he left.

Levi threw on his sweater, taking on last glance inside to see Isabel watching him from where she was nestled. He raised a brow, already knowing the cat was egging him on and decided why the hell no, she can come for the ride.

They drove through Sina, one time passing by Attack on Titan Café just to make sure everything was alright.

Once he found the a pizza place simply called Supino's, he went inside with Isabel hot on his trail and he managed to make it to the counter. And while he was ordering, of course a young girl, possible in her sophomore year realized who he was despite his usual getup.

And within literally 0.4 seconds, half the pizzeria was out their seats and crowding around the young man and his cat. Isabel hissed due to the massive fan base and took refuge behind Levi's legs. He scowled and rolled his eyes between his sunshades. He did not have time for this, Eren's party was in two hours plus he still wanted to buy his gifts.

"Levi, Levi, Levi, can I get a few pictures?!"_ You're already taking them..._

"Can you answer a few of my questions?!"

"I love you!"

"Can you please sign my pizza? Or the box? Or the plate at least?"

"Is that your pet? Ooh, it's so cute!"

"She's not an it," Levi shouted, his head snapping towards the person. "She's a girl."

"What's her name?!"

"..." Levi fell silent for a moment. His lips thinned and his shoulder's un-tensed. Well... He's not going to be able to leave unless he feeds the crowd right?

"Her name's Isabel."

More camera's snapped. Flashes temporarily blinding him. "If you're going to take pictures, turn the goddamn flash off!" He shouted. He tried not to sound rude. Well.. So much for that. But, they listened, thankfully. So, he thought, if they listen to what I say, maybe I should explain that I have to get going and they'll leave me alone...

He stood up straight, fixing his posture before taking off his hoodie follows by his shades. The crowd screamed in delight. They pushed and shoved to get a better angle to fill up storage space on their phones and other devices. His eyes softened as he looked at each person.

"Listen, I appreciate your... Devotion?... Or uh... Um.. Love... For me...?" He paused. Holy shit, this speech is gonna go from bad to worse.

"But I really need to get going."

"Why?!" Most of the crowd shouted. Unison, like a cult doing rituals.

He sighed softly. "Tonight is Eren's birthday. And I have to hurry up and order dinner and head somewhere to buy his gift. So if you'd like, you can continue taking pictures, I guess I'll sign some autographs or something but I just have to get going."

And with that, he turned and picked up Isabel before his eyes scanned the menu.

"Animals aren't allowed in here." The cashier said.

Levi fished out his wallet and dropped three twenties in the man's tip jar. "Believe me, she won't be any trouble,"

Levi looked over the menu. "I don't know what those shit's like but I know Eren likes meat lovers... So um... Six large peps, seven large meat lovers, two large cheese and... I guess your party special on hot wings."

"Would you like to add two more side dishes?"

"Mm... Sure, why the hell not?... You guys sell pasta?" Levi asked with a raise of a brow. He looked up from the menu.

"Ah, yes sir," the man responded with a soft nod of his head.

"Alright, give me Chef Nicolo's al Tonno, Godfather Spaghetti and meatballs, and... Alghero. Also, throw in some garlic knots. About thirty of them."

"Soda?"

"May I have you autograph?" Levi looked to his left to see a girl smiling like a maniac, holding out a pen and a napkin for Levi to sign.

"Uh... Give me four of any brand, I don't care. Not the same brand though." He said, taking the pen and napkin and scribbling his name quickly as well as a quick, thanks for being a fan-

"What's your name?"

"Oriana," she says.

He writes he name and turns back to the man ready for payment. Once the amount was said, he swiped his credit card and a receipt was handedo back as well as an estimate for how long the food would take.

He would have about an hour and ten minutes to shop for the teen. More than enough time. He turned and immediately he was met with many people wanting to get an autograph for the man.

Okay... Maybe an hour to shop...

**~·~**

Around seven forty is when Levi unlocked the door to his home, greeted by the sound of Hanji's laughter.

Isabel ran swiftly to her food bowl and began eating what Erwin replenished while her and Levi were out.

Levi put four boxes of pizza on the dining room table and kept Eren's gifts securely in hand. He walked up behind the couch where he saw Erwin and Hanji sitting on the floor hooking up a... Game system?

"What the hell is all this? Who said you could hook this shit up to my TV? And how the hell did you get in my house?"

"We know you keep a spare hidden under the bird feeder in the garden." Erwin said, matter of factly. He plugged in the wires into the back of the TV.

"Yeah, we figured that out like two months after you bought this house." Hanji laughed. "Oh, and this? It's Eren's gifts. Petra stopped by earlier to drop off a Wii and a few games she brought since he likes to talk about Mario Karts and stuff. Erwin bought him an Xbox One since they were all out of PlayStation 4's. So I ran by my house and got my PlayStation 4 and a few of my games to give to him," she looks at Levi, her glasses falling off her nose.

"Don't be surprised when I break in at three AM to play Bloodborne and The Last of Us. I also like to play CoD with a few of my friends from college, so don't get upset when I get too loud!"

Levi looked at the huge pile of games littering his floor. He was 98 percent sure 2.9/3 of that game from Hanji's living room.

"Oh, and I won't mind when you two are going at it," she said with a wiggle of her brow. "I like to listen! I also like to watch!"

"Please, shut that gaping shithole you call a mouth..." Levi pinched his nose. "I do not need to know what you like to do, pervert..."

"And don't worry! These aren't all the games! I'll be dropping off the rest tomorrow."

"Please don't."

"Haha, little Levi's embarrassed. Heeey, speaking of embarrassment, what's in the bag? Dildos?"

"No."

"Lube?"

"No."

"Vibrators?"

"My God, Hanji!"

"..."

"It's about time you shut up." Levi said defeated, turning around towards the kitchen.

"Anal beads?" She called, holding back the laughter threatening to escape her throat.

Even Erwin was amused at Hanji and Levi's friendship. Always fun to sit back and watch the fireworks pop.

But, instead of Levi retorting, he called it quits and ran back out to his car to finish bringing in the food. Eren's present did not once leave the man's hands. He set up the dinner table and before he closed the front door, Mikasa's vehicle pulled into his driveway. The model saw Mikasa wave to him briefly as she pulled up perfectly behind Erwin's car. Once her engine cut off, she opened her door and greeted herself.

"We bought Eren's cake."

Levi simply nods and walks out next to his sister. He peaks in her car to see Armin dead asleep in the passengers side. "Is he okay?"

She nods. "Yes," the back trunk opens and she pulls out a square box. "He fell asleep during the ride back from Trost."

"Well, we should get him up. Eren should be home in about ten minutes." Levi took the two tier cake from his sister and looked down at it. "Isn't this a little too much-"

"It's fine. Trust me."

"Alright. When he has a sugar high tonight, you're rocking his ass to sleep."

**~·~**

"I _swear_ she liquidated my balls!"

Laughter irrupted once more withing the car. Okay... So... Eren's shit mood was most definitely a phase. He still haven't eaten breakfast and he was counting on lunch at the moment. But he knew one thing for sure, he could always count on his friends to brighten his day.

Because you will never see a girl about five foot dismantle two male's manhood's in the middle of bowling.

Jean groaned in pain as he lay in Marco's lap. "Ymir, _please_ take me to the hospital."

"No."

"Please!"

"She kicked Reiner in the balls too, he's not complaining."

"I swear he's a cross between a jock and a gorilla."

"It only hurt for a while, bro. Just suck it up, you'll be fine." Reiner reassured.

"I hate all of you..." Jean groaned.

Eren laughed so hard, he snorted. He wiped a fake tear for his eye - or at least he thinks it was fake, but his eyes are watering- and struggles to breathe against the seat belt.

"This is gold! You, Mr. Jean Kirschtien, got your ass beat by little Annie Leonhardt!"

The blonde looked back at Eren, who continued laughing.

"Just wait until she turns your balls into a smoothie..." Jean rolled over, face down on Marco's leg. He groaned when Marco patted his back and pulled his legs to his chest. His feet still sat on top of Reiner's thighs thought.

"I wouldn't do that," Annie says simply. "He wasn't immature about my current feminine predicament."

"Ha!" Eren spat.

"However," his head whipped towards her. "I can still hurt him for calling me little. But, I think that would be foolish."

"I'm surprised Connie didn't laugh or make a joke," Reiner says.

"I'm used to it," he shrugs. "I have four sisters and two older brothers. Plus, I stay over with Sasha most of the time. And she has a sister too. Nothing new."

"Even Connie's mature about it," Annie zips up her purse and sets it on her lamp as they near Levi's home.

Armin jumped up when he saw Ymir's car stop behind Mikasa's and her lights cut off.

"They're here!"

The lights cut off inside and Eren could see that from the outside as neared the door. He smiled to himself. He opened the front door and entered.

And I shit you not, Eren nearly had a heart attack when something slammed into his face and he stumbled backwards.

"Happy Birthday!" Pounded his eardrums and he wiped the... sticky...?... Substance off his face. His eyes managed to fluttering open, halfway but he could take in the sight. Before him was Armin, smiling. Hi smile was a mixture of happiness and uncertainty. He looked down in his hands to see a smudged... Pie.

Finally Eren began licking his lips and wiping the whipped cream off his face.

"Seriously Armin?" Eren chuckled. "Not my idea, completely Levi's. He figured you knew we were planning a party for you. So now, you're surprised, right?"

"Not really."

And yet again, more pies were slammed in his face. This time, complimentary of Mikasa, Connie, Hanji, Ymir, and Jean. Though his was the last to come.

"Are you surprised now?"

"Haha. Yeah."

Levi gave Eren a towel to clean himself up and he moved everybody into the kitchen to celebrate.

Everybody was given their helping of food and settled at the table. Levi enjoyed the looks from his friends as they looked around the home. Eren chowed down on nearly an entire box of meats lover pizza. Levi was the one who had to slow him down.

"Aye, Shorty, are you a drug dealer or somethin'?" Ymir asked, looking around his house. "I just went in your garage and I swear it's worth over two hundred grand in there!"

He looked at her. "Not a drug dealer, but a well known face." He paused. "Did you piss in my garage?!"

"Fuck no," She sat down and looked at Levi. "I used the guest bathroom across from the garage."

"Then, why the hell were you in there?"

"I wanted to see what was in there. Your house is fucking huge and the furnishing is obviously not cheap. You don't look too piss poor yourself."

"You have no respect for other's belongings do you?"

"I do," she started, shoving a slice of pepperoni pizza in her mouth. "But like I said, you're house is fucking nice. And I'm wondering why you drive that Mustang when you got those cars parked in there. What's the point of letting them rot away?"

Levi doesn't reply. Instead, Eren does. "Most of those cars were gifts to Levi's friends. He bought himself about two cars at max... And the Mustang wasn't meant for him.. If was meant for someone else..."

"Why don't you give them the damn cars then?"

"Because they're dead." He deadpans. The convo died down. Hanji's smile dropped and everyone's gaze was casted upon Levi.

Erwin's face was blank but Eren could see the pain laced within his eyes knowing. Hanji's mouth was closed and Mikasa rested a reassuring hand on his shoulder. But Levi continued eating, as if he said nothing morbid.

"Levi.." Mikasa mumbled.

"But you're right, those cars do sit there and rot. They could be used once more. Their engines haven't started up since my friend's died."

"Are you suggesting we can drive your cars?!" Jean sat up quick, leaning towards Levi with a sparkle in his eye.

"Hell no, I wouldn't trust you with a plant," he said, his face twisted as if someone just insulted his mother.

"Looks like your balls have healed," Eren chuckled.

"What's wrong with your balls?" Levi asked slowly, his eyebrows narrowed.

"It's a long story," his eyes adverted to Annie whom look at him, apathetically.

"Sorry for asking. Why didn't you choose more friends like Armin?" He asked Eren.

Eren smiled. "They're alright. Except Jean. Jean's just there." The boy scoffed. "Whatever Jaeger, and you're just there to make me look even better."

"Save it,"

"Whatever, you know I'm right. My looks compared to yours, you don't even stand a chance. That's exactly why you're single."

"Well, for starters, I'm not. And please, with that long face, you have no competition," he ran his hand along his defining jawline.

"Your jawline makes you look like a twink-"

"You're all a bunch of twinks." Ymir clarified. Her gaze shifting to each of her male friends at the table.

"You're gonna call me a twink when you spend nearly two hours on your eyebrows and another hour waxing your thigh hair." Eren crossed his arms and held his smug smirk with pride.

"How do you know that!?"

"We all know." Mikasa says, pulling her hair up in a bun.

"The sexual tension is unbelievable," Levi mumbles. "If you two need to fuck, go outside and do it. Don't curse us with having to endure that." The room laughs and Levi cracks a smile seeing Eren's disgusted and red face. Jean's was just a scowl towards Eren with pink blushing cheeks.

Levi says it likes it nothing. But if horserace actually thinks he has a go ahead to bang Eren, he's got another thing coming.

The night carried on rather well. Eren's opened most of his gifts. He received band merch from Ymir, his favorite being a pullover hoodie with the "I love you," symbols from one of The Neighbourhood's albums and an Arctic Monkeys CD. He also really liked the ITunes gift card and a few books on the ocean from Armin. And he liked the Converse Christa got him. Mikasa also bought him a pair of shoes, running shoes to his dismay... Meaning Mikasa wanted him in her gym to train with her. She also got him a watch, a beautiful one at that.

Jean bought him a pair of skull candy ear buds and a how to guide on how to hit puberty. Cute. He even wrote down instructions from Wikihow. But on the back was a really heart filled letter written to Eren. And despite his sloppy handwriting, Eren smiled at the end.

Reiner gave him a football autographed by... Himself... But like Jean, a short message was written in cursive. Reiner could barely write print, but he sure as hell can write amazing in cursive. Bert got him a baseball autographed by a famous ball player since he managed to catch one of the balls during a game when they were ten. He's always wanted this ball so Bert's gift was possibly his favorite out of all.

It occurred to him that Bert thought of the present and Reiner was inspired by it.

Marco scored him two tickets to see Hollywood Undead live. Holy shit that kid always surprised him. Too bad the concert wasn't until for about four more months so hopefully, he won't loose it.

Sasha and Connie bought him a few Nintendo games for his old DS and a few posters. Two of attractive women, about five of video games and three bands from the eighty's.

He was excited when he saw three game counsels on the living room floor.

So him along as his friends all yelled and cheered and cursed as they battled on Mario Karts. There were up to four players per game and Eren got to play in all of them. Most of his friends created tag teams to race as.

Even one game, he raced against Levi and to his joy, he won and since Levi kept confusing the buttons and had trouble drifting, hence the short male deeming the game bullshit.

When two fifteen AM rolled around, Eren left the game to get another slice of pizza. He was already at the crust when Levi waltzed into the kitchen, two gift bags in hand. One smaller than the other.

"You're still eating? This is like your ninth slice."

Eren smiles and shoves the crust in his mouth. "It's my twelfth and yes, I'm still eating. I'm starving. I didn't have breakfast."

"You got lunch though. I swear if you keep eating like this, you're gonna start marinating in your own grease." Levi takes a seat the table and the bags in front of him. He notices Eren's eyes lit up and he's closing in.

"You didn't listen to a word I said, did you?"

"What did you get me?! I hope it's another fish like what Maya got me. Sucks she couldn't come."

"Colin finally got sick from creating disgusting shit." Levi replies, his face straight.

"Dont say that, he's only four."

"That's not an excuse," Eren takes a seat next to Levi and looks at the boxed cake on the middle of the table. "When are we gonna eat the cake?"

"Later." Levi promises. "We'll eat it after I give you your present, yes?"

"I wanna eat it now."

"You can't."

"I'm the birthday boy, though!" Levi chuckles. "You're a spoiled princess more than a birthday boy."

Eren smiles to himself and says nothing else. His stomach is just aching for the cake Mikasa promised he'll love.

"I hope it's Black Forest Cake."

"It is."

"For real?!"

Levi nods. "You also have your own Torte and Marzipan. And that ice cream thing that looks like spaghetti,"

"You got Spaghettiei_s_?!_" _

"Yup. Everything to make your little German heart combust. But, you can't eat anything until after I give you all five of your gifts."

"Five!?"

"Yup."

"Isn't that too much?"

"Nothing is too much, brat..." His voice died down and he allows that to sink in. "But, for now, I'll only give you four."

"How come?"

"The one in this bag," he held up the smallest bag. "Is for last. Always save the best for last."

Eren nods slowly and Levi hands him the big bag. "I'll be waiting upstairs, love."

Eren was confused for a second before he shook it off and opened the bag. Inside was as Levi said, four items. The first one capturing his attention was a charm bracelet with a little note from Levi saying he has the other half.

The next gift was a few roses, each in different colors and a pamphlet with the meaning of each rose.

_Purple: Symbolism of Dignity, pride and respect._

_Green: Symbolism of Good fortune, health, youth, optimism and resilience._

_Pink: Symbolism of Innocence, playfulness and sensitivity._

He glanced back down at the roses and looked at the remaining colors.

_White: Symbolism of Evoked beauty, purity, and renewal._

_Lavender: Refinement, grace, elegance and feminine beauty_.

He smiled at those two.

He picked up the red rose and twirled in his fingers.

_Red: Symbolism of Essence of desire, strength, passionate love, beauty, and seduction._

And the last rose...

Light Pink with a meaning of just one word: _Admiration_.

Eren smiled and set all the roses down on the table. He loved them. He loved how Levi took the time to choose each flower just for him. He especially loved the white rose, lavender, red rose and the light pink one. He felt special as he held the flowers to his chest.

The next gift was... A white... Garter..? His face went cold when he pulled out the rest of his "gifts."

Levi actually bought him a freaking lingerie set?! No fucking wonder why he told him, I'll be waiting upstairs, love.

He looked at the garter. It was pretty to Eren's dismay. It was white and jewel encrusted. A rose made of small jewels was the main design of it. White lace patterns held it up securely. It had weight to it.

Don't tell me the diamonds are real...

Eren looked around, making sure the coast was clear before taking out the rest of it. His face turned red immediately. This was just too much to process! Why does Levi always want him to cross dress? If it's not kinky cosplay then it's sexy women's lingerie. And the fucking heels!

He could swear Levi's being unsubtle hinting he wants a girlfriend to play dress up with. Either that or he considers Eren a woman. And Eren's definitely not a girl.

He picked up the black lace bra. Accents of red made up the bow in the middle and a few of the designs on the lace. Elegant was the word to describe the article of underclothing.

Matching underwear too.

He can't do this. This is far too much.

The best thing to do is grab three more slices of pizza, some wings and soda, plop down on the couch and call it a night and watch his friends have fun.

Now that's what should have happened.

If his phone didn't vibrate about two minutes of his indulging. And he did indeed dare to check it. His mistake.

**Levi: Did you have a stroke on the shitter?**

Eren was in the middle of typing a bitter and humorous response. However, Levi already beat him to responding.

**Levi: I'm waiting ever so patiently for my flower to waltz his pretty self up here**.

And Eren's cheeks flushed and his eyes widened. He was Levi's flower and he was pretty? Sweet words for a gentle heart will do great things...

Hm. But this slice of pizza seems a hell of a lot more intriguing than Levi's sweet nothings and-

**Levi: The bed's cold. It'd be a lot warmer if you were here. I want you with me. I'm lonely up here. Please, bright eyes? I'll do _anything_ for you. You are _my_ princess, after all. Spoiled or not... You're still mine.**

Fuck.

**Bright Eyes: Am... Am I supposed to wear the stuff you bought me?**

**Levi: It's up to you, Princess. Either way, you're still going to enjoy yourself.**

**Bright Eyes: Even the heels...?**

**Levi: Well, I dont think the heels will enjoy themselves.**

He could safely assume Levi was laughing right now.

**Bright Eyes: I'll uh... I'll be right up..**

Eren got up off the couch, carrying the present bag closely to his chest. His cheeks red, his legs wobbly, his breath uneven.

"Eren, where are you going?" Connie called, his eyes adverting from the game for a split second.

The birthday boy didn't respond. He only ran up the steps two at a time, clutching onto the bag for dear life and what is about to happen. He has no idea what to expect and honestly, he has no idea why he's so nervous.

Possibly because of the sudden flirting techniques Levi's picked up that doesn't involve toilet humor and sarcasm.

Maybe he's been abducted by the supernatural and it's up to Eren to save him? Yeah, that's a likely possibility. Maybe he should turn back now. But it was already too late. He was already in the guest bathroom, light switch on and slowly stripping out his clothes.

"What's up with him?" Jean asked, watching Marco braid Mikasa's hair.

Some may consider Hanji's laugh as psychotic. And her psychotic laughter is what filled the room. Her eyes widen and hungry, her smile animalistic. She chuckled and darkly says,

"It's starting..."

**~·~**

Eren stumbled slightly on his heels. Using the wall as support, he made it in one piece, surprisingly. No broken bones or dismantled limbs to speak of.

He opened the door to their shared room.

He was graced with a dark room lit by candles. Levi sat in the middle of their bed, the only piece of clothing he lacked was his shoes which were placed neatly by his bedside.

Eren shut the door behind him quietly and stood before the model. Levi stared at him with calm eyes. His expression was as always lacking. But, there was that fire behind his eyes as he devoured the brunette.

Words were not exchanged. Levi slowly got out of bed and made his way over to the taller male, skillfully sliding his hands around his and pulling his taller frame to his shorter one.

Levi inhaled his scent. Expecting to smell pizza, his nostrils was assaulted with the scent of light jasmine and lavender. Honestly, he was surprised by Eren's smell and buried his nose in the crook of the teen's neck. "You smell pleasant," Levi murmurs. His mouth then latches onto his neck. Butterfly kisses pepper Eren's neck and the boy blushes, taking an unconscious step back so the door can support some of his weight.

"Y-yeah. I um.. Bought some perfume a while back... I went shopping with Christa inside- ah!" He shuts his mouth quickly.

Levi looks up, his eyes displeased. "Don't hide your pleasure from me," Levi begins suckling along his collarbone, teeth grazing over the bone. "You look beautiful Eren." He whispers, his breath tickling Eren's skin. The hair on his body erect. The model's hands finds purchase on Eren's hips, toying with the lace panties hugging them perfectly. He sways Eren's hips side to side, his fingers slipping past the band of the lingerie but no further. He thumbs Eren's hipbone as he stares into his eyes.

The boy is chewing his bottom lip softly. Levi smirked and presses their lips together. And immediately, Eren's eyes flutter shut. Their lips slide easily over one another, their tongues play around and do tricks. Their passion is heightened.

Levi bites Eren's bottom lips softly before breaking off with a playful smirk. He pulls on side of Eren's panties and let them snap against his hips. He let's out a soft gasp and growls softly under his breath.

Finally, there's that lust craving grin Levi's been waiting for.

His hand finds Eren's and he pulls him along to the bed. He pushes Eren onto the bed crawling on top to hover over him. He smiles softly and unhooks Eren's bra before latching himself onto Eren's nipple. Lapping and sucking at the sensitive nub, he earns elicit cries from the twenty year old.

While his mouth works at one nipple, the other doesn't go abandoned. His fingers pull and twist the numb, occasionally rubbing it with his thumb. Soon, it becomes erect just like the one being rolled underneath his tongue.

"Levi?" Eren mumbled when all contact with his body is lost. His partner straightens up, keeping himself steady on Eren's lower regions.

Eye's don't break away. Levi pulls off his purple tie and begins unbuttoning his black button down. Eren's hands reach out and he sits up a little. "Here, Levi, let me do-"

"No." He says simply; serene laced in his deep voice. He throws the top on the floor and leans closer to Eren's face. When their noses are almost touching, he smirked. Especially when he notices how red Eren face becomes. Shouldn't he be used to their intimate moments by now?

"I'll be damned if I let _my_ princess lift a dainty finger," his mouth goes back to work. Salting kisses along Eren's chest and neck and collarbone area. "Today is your day, yes?" Eren doesn't respond, he only shivers to his boyfriend's touch. "Let me take care of you and your needs."

Eren smiled a little and lays on his back and allows Levi to finish his task. Levi kisses from his collar bone to his nipples, down his chest and abdominal until he reaches the band of lace. He looks up with soft eyes, Eren staring back with approval to continue. Levi smiles to himself and pulls down his panties. He looks at them briefly before tossing them on the floor.

He looks at Eren's half hard cock, taking the organ in his hand with light touches. "You know, Eren," he mumbled slowly, not taking his eyes off the bright pink length once. "W-what?" The birthday boy breathing out. His breathing is picking up once more.

"It's a shame I had to strip you of those panties," his tongue takes a long lick at the shaft, skillfully starting at the base and ending at the tip. He laps at the tip for a few seconds before adding, "You looked gorgeous in them. Hell, you'd look gorgeous in anything."

His mouth was filled with Eren and the boy cried out immediately in pleasure. His body shivered in pleasure as Levi had full control over the situation.

His cock was hot in his mouth and vise versa. Eren gasped, shivered, moaned. Salt began to taste his mouth. Eren's cock twitches on his tongue and he plants a hand on Eren's hips to keep them down. Levi picks up pace and Eren's breath hitches in his throat.

Fuck I'm close

Fuck I'm close.

Fuck. I'm so close...

Levi's mouth vanishes from his throbbing length and quickly replaced with his hand. Quick but languid, fluid motions easily move against his cock. Fingers taking care of every throbbing vein, a thumb rubbing the leaking slit of his cock, tongue and teeth teasing his balls.

And soon, Eren his moaning in pleasure. He sees white. Waves of pleasure shaking his entire body and Levi continues to pump his cock and ride out his orgasm.

_"_Ces beaux cris, gosse. S'il vous plaît, me chanter plus." Eren mind is puddled with pleasure. Dear God, is Levi sweet talking in French again? That was French, right? Sounded like it... Eren could barely tell with the feelings surging through his body.

"L-levi...?" His voice soft, shaken.

He hears a dark chuckle from his lower regions. A chuckle dark and beautiful like soft velvet on lace.

He hears shifting in the new found quiet. He begins dazing off into sleep as he's exhausted. One of his downfalls still being fairly inexperienced. He's not a virgin, but not an expert either. Fatigue wanting to take a toll on his body is no match for Levi. The man sits in his boxers now.

"Peau laiteuse..." He murmurs. "Réclamé par moi." Teeth marries the flesh on Eren's thighs. Kisses and sweet nothings paint his skin as Levi's hand toys with the garter on Eren's right leg. He admires it by adoring the fine embellishment with loving kisses to it and the skin around it.

His tongue glides along Eren's inner thigh. Bruises are left claiming the boy. Bruises identical to the ones left on his neck and collarbone. Levi's favorites being the ones peppering his collarbone, the bruise left on Eren's hips, and on the inside of his thigh.

"Tu es à moi, Eren," Levi says, taking off his boxers and gripping his own hard erection. He reaches underneath his pillow and pops open a bottle of lube.

He pours some on his cock, rubbing with slowly graceful moments. Tugging and teasing his own cock.

"Vous appartenez à moi. Je veux que chacun sache que. Je veux personne pour vous emmener loin de moi. Je veux que vous tant que ça." His slicked fingers rub at the puckered hole. His finger slide in, allowing the boy to adjust to it before moving it back and forth.

"Comme je le dis, vous êtes si jolie," A second finger is entered and Eren moans hotly.

"Je ne dis pas souvent, mais vous devez être conscient de votre propre beauté ... " His fingers brushed up against his sweet spot, earning a cry with was restricted by Eren's clenched teeth.

"La beauté, l'élégance, la grâce, l'intelligence, l'humour, la loyauté, l'amour. Tout plié en vous." A third finger and Eren's being driven over the edge. He grabs onto Levi's wrist and looks at him with pleading eyes.

"Please... Levi... I can't much longer..."

"What do you want?" Levi asks gently in Eren's native tongue. There is still a growl in his voice that is just as needy as Eren.

"Touch me.." He moans softly, his eyes adverting for Levi.

"I'm sorry," he says, his fingers shoving in more purposely. Eren's back arches deliciously to Levi's delight. "Je ne vous entends pas." He smirks, saying those four little words in French. Eren growls, growing impatient. He whines and bucks under Levi and his hands tighten on the man's wrist. "Touch me. I want you to touch me, please. I want to be yours, make this better than my first time. Make this a night we'll never forget. Please... Just.. Touch me more. I need more. I... I...want more." His face darkens realizing what he's just said.

Levi smirks and pulls his fingers out of Eren. Quickly replacing it with the head of his length. He pushes in softly and graced with the warmth of Eren's wet and warm cavern.

His body shivers under the heat and he leans forward, thrusting in. Eren yelps. Pain arises from his bottom but he manages. But Levi can still see the discomfort in Eren's eyes.

"Je suis désolé, mon amour." He mumbles. Stroking his brown looks and brushing a stand behind his ears. Reassuringly, Eren smiles at Levi.

"Go ahead. Please."

Warmth pools into the bottom of their stomachs as each thrust becomes deeper and more concentrated. Levi rolls his hips making Eren pant and bellow beneath him. Eren sunk into the blankets and pillows, his mouth open with hunger. His eyes expressing explicit passion and love for the man whom claims him. Levi tighten his grip on Eren's hips, steadying the brunette. Soon, Levi pulls out and flips Eren off his back and flips him on his stomach. Burying himself deeper in Eren with this position.

"Tellement beau. Eren, je ne veux pas vous retenir. Je veux savoir combien vous me aimes. Je dois savoir si tu me aimes la même façon Je t'aime. Merde. Merde. Fu-" he pants on Eren's neck and sucks on his back. "Votre joli petit cul me sucer dans. Regardez comme elle est jolie." He kisses the round mounds. Kneading the shapely ass cheeks in his hands, he gives the right cheek a firm slap.

"Ah! Levi!"

Another slap follows by more reassuring kisses. He even bites the mounds. A trail made by Levi's tongue is made all the way up Eren's spine, licking the dip of his back.

"Pourtant, même après toutes les autres fois, nous baiser, vous êtes toujours serré." Levi growls. "Votre trou dévore ma bite " ."

His fingers dug into the skin of Eren's hips. "M-more..." Eren begs, he buries his head in his forearm. His body melting tremendously. Heat crawling over every part of his skin. "Fuck, I want more."

The man flips Eren over so they're face to face. Slamming Eren on his length, Eren throws his head back and his hands scrabble to get a firm grip on Levi's back. The exposed skin on Eren's neck is calling Levi's name and he's happy to oblige. Maybe... A few more love bites won't hurt anyone. Sucking, biting, kissing flesh making blood vessels burst under such heated passion. Dark spots littered his once virgin skin. Levi licks Eren's Adam's apple before sucking it, earning an appreciative groan from the brunette.

"Je vous ai toujours voulu comme ça. Subcumed pour moi. Fusion sous mon contact, des frissons et tremblant à cause de moi. Je l'ai toujours voulu vous faire vivre un tel bonheur de la bonne façon. Romantique, non? Vous avez toujours voulu romantique sexe Juste toi et moi Votre corps chatoyante de sueur pure et le clair de lune;... magnifique. vous regarderez comme une princesse. ma princesse."

Eren cries out, his body tensing for a brief moment. Tears are brimming his eyes as he falls back in the bed, pulling Levi down with him. "Right there! Please, do that again!"

Bingo.

Levi positions his hips and slams in with such force, he could swear Eren could've broken underneath him. But instead, he earned a loud moan and fingernails scratching his back red.

Levi's cock squeezed into a deliciously heated and somewhat slippery passage, he puts his hands on Eren's thighs and digs his nails into them. He's fairly sure that having sex with a woman was never this good. The pressure around his cock is too nice and it has Levi balls deep and groaning uncontrollably. He leans forward, sweat dripping off his locks and creating a thin coat on his forehead. He closes his eyes tight for a second, his time nearing. He looks at Eren and smiles darkly at him.

Taking Eren's firm yet neglected member in his hand, he synced each thrust with every stroke.

"Il est affolant. Comment intense vos intérieurs sont. Comment vous continuez à me avaler plus profond en vous." He moans, voice deep with want.

Eren is a moaning mess. His body is quivering, his eyes dilated and painted with sexual desire. His legs and body and length is all in the palm of Levi's hand. He is dominant over the boy's body. He is the ruler over his body.

"Fuck, Levi, please! So close, so close, so close!"

Levi leans forward, making sure to get every angle of Eren's passage possible.

"Laissez papa prendre soin de vous, de crier pour moi, Eren." He didn't mean to say that first part. And once he realizes his words, his face shades a dark red which he hides.

Instead, he curls a hand around the back of Eren's neck and brings the male to him. Their bodies melt together as Levi kisses him. Eren whines into his mouth, and the sound goes straight to Levi's cock. He takes a chance and bites down, quite hard, on Eren's bottom lip. This brings out another whine, only this one is much more like a moan. The noises Eren creates is like music to Levi's ears.

With a few more dedicated thrusts and languid stokes, Levi picks up his pace and thrusts harder and faster into Eren. The boy locks his legs behind Levi, keeping him deep within him. Eren holds onto the back of Levi's neck for dear life as he comes over the both of them. He moans into Levi's chest, biting down to keep himself from being too loud. Levi continues to stroke Eren as his seed stickies the both of them. Soon after, Levi comes inside Eren. He couldn't bring himself to pull out because 1. Eren's insides are far too hot and tight to leave. It was like trying to leave your bed in the morning, and 2. Eren's legs remained tight and in position and he had no thoughts about unhooking himself anytime soon.

And within seconds, they both collapsed.

Levi finally out of the heated passage. Levi's cum still connecting them. He pulls Eren into his arms and kisses his nose. Eren smiles briefly before crawling off Levi to doze on his side of the bed. Eren shifts on his side and remains close to his lover. Levi lay in darkness, his hands behind is head as the heat from his body slowly subdued.

"Laissez papa prendre soin de vous..." He mumbled. "Ha, aren't I foolish...?" He muttered in English. Eren could hear him and groaned.

"Hey Levi,"

"Yes?"

"Why did you wear a purple tie today? Why did you wear a tie at all?" He hears a faint laugh in the teens voice.

He shrugs. "Tonight is supposed to be special. I wore purple because one of my favorite colors is red. Yours is blue. Red and blue make-"

"Purple." Eren said softly, his lips curled in a sweet smile. "Tonight was special. Thank you."

"This is not the end. The night is still young, it isn't over."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Eren mutters, words slurred with sleep.

"You'll see, Bright Eyes."

He glanced at Eren who had a steady rise and fall of his shoulders, his eyes then looked over at his bedside table. The small bag waiting to be opened.

He inhales deeply. In and out. In and out. He has to calm himself now. It's all or nothing at this point. And yet, he still can't bring himself to do it. His heart begins racing with anticipation and fear. Too many questions run through his head at once and honestly, his nerves are tense despite a relief no more than a few minutes ago.

But that's not the type of relief he needs right now, no. Emotional relief and reassurance. Anything can happen within such a small time frame. The future can be damaged from one small thing.

And this is what he fears.

What lies ahead for both him and Eren.

He sits up on his elbows and reaches over in his drawer.

Pulling out a pack of cigarettes and picked up his lighter. Fumbling with the packing momentarily, he contemplated whether or not really need it... Usually he only craved nicotine when he was extremely tense. When his mind is really racing and he can't control it. When he's nervous... When he's afraid.

Coming to a conclusion, he lights it and allows the feeling to wash over him.

As soon as the smell hits Eren's nostrils, he sits up quick. "Levi!"

"What? You want one?"

"No! Spit it out!"

"No."

"Spit it out!"

"I can't. I'm nervous as fuck and I need to calm down before my thoughts become irrational." He mumbles, light it once more and blowing out a puff of smoke before falling backward onto his pillow.

"Ir... rational?" Eren mumbled. The room falls silent and Eren can only sit back and watch the nicotine calm Levi. "Why are you so nervous?"

"I just..." He looks at Eren. Sea green eyes filled with worry for the man before him. "I just am... And I've always been smoking... Ever since Petra broke it off with me, I just started. I've managed to curb it after I met you. But then I started it again when your mom died cause I was uncertain of the future. Fear and worry began taking a toll on my body and conscious and I-I have to smoke to get rid of it. And tonight, I'm beyond scared. I don't want to ruin what's between us."

Eren blinked by Levi's sudden change. Levi's being raw. He's becoming undone. This is Levi, in the flesh. Stripped of his tough exterior. On the outside, he's unapproachable and harsh. But wash all the grime and muck and what you'll get is something truly beautiful. Eren's hand cupped both sides of Levi's cheeks and kissed the tip of his nose. Despite the toxins assaulting his line of breathing. "Whatever it is," Eren begins with a soft smile. "It won't drive me away. We've been through too much for me to leave."

Levi smiles back and takes another long drag before mumbling a small, "Okay."

Levi takes Eren's hands and the brunette yawns sleepily. Levi swallows a thick lump forming in his throat.

"Well, Eren... I've been thinking. I'm not good with words... But I'm pretty good with money and I express my feelings when I buy you gifts. I don't just buy things and hand them out to people, I only do that when there's a purpose or meaning behind it. And my purpose of buying you all this stuff is to let you know you're special to me and you actually mean everything to me. I would do anything for you and believe that... I-I guess what I'm trying to say is.. I love you. A lot. And I really need to know, would you give me the honor of having-"

He paused. His face twisted into suspicion then to anger as the sound became more and more audible with the growing silence and straining hearing.

Munching, somewhat quiet manic giggling and the sound of heavy breathing came from outside their bedroom.

Levi growled as he crawled out of bed, murmuring a few harsh profanities for whom he had a feeling was on the other side. He threw on his pants quickly followed by a shirt. He looks at Eren who covers himself with the blanket and snuggles in it.

Levi creeps to the door, grips the door handle and swings it open.

"Ow! Shi-"

"Hanji!" The woman grabbed her nose and her phone dropped out her hand along as a bag of gingersnap cookies.

The model stomped over to the woman and pulled her by the hair to bring her to his eye level. "You've got three seconds to tell me what the hell you're doing!"

She began laughing like a madman and the grip on her hair tightened.

Her glasses began slipping off her nose and she laughed with a lopsided smile.

"I told you I like to watch."

"For fucks sakes," he groans. He lets go of the woman's hair. "I can't even have privacy in my own home."

"Whoa, looks like getting laid is really good for you! I mean, you're not raging right now!" She exclaimed, grabbing on his shirt sleeve. He pulled away and scowled.

"Whatever, four eyes. Go back downstairs and eat or go take a shit or something, just get out my face."

"Bitter as always, Mr. Ackerman," she cooed. "Ooh! And speaking of eating," she looked into the darkly lit room. "Eren dear, put your clothes on, we have to cut your cake."

"Cake?!" He sat up quick, a smile on his face. "I forgot about my cake! Levi! We have to cut the cake!" He literally rolled out of bed and landed face first on the carpet, quickly scrambling to his feet and hauling on his clothes messily.

"You even lit candles! How romantic, Levi."

"Brat likes romantic things. I thought candles were a nice touch."

"Indeed." She had a creepy grin on her face as Eren name stumbling out the room, his mop of hair messy and his face still flushed. He was still somewhat... Sluggish. But that didn't stop him from running down the steps and into the living room to announce he wants to eat cake.

"Well Levi, sorry to have stolen your boyfriend from sexy times. I'll see you downstairs, yes?" And just like Eren, she ran down stairs happily and into the kitchen. And the only thing Levi did was stand back and shake his head in disapproval.

He did not want to deal with this shit. Leave it to Hanji to fuck up everything that he had planned perfectly for tonight. Shit.. Now his fucking anxiety was coming back and he groaned. That shitty feeling turning in his stomach. Maybe constipation was taking over from dinner? No, this was worse.

He rubbed his temples with a deep sigh for relief. At least that helped a little.

He begins walking downstairs but stops halfway to lean against the railing.

He smiles as he sees Eren jumping up and down waiting happily for Mikasa to fetch the candles. A vibrant smile and that sparkle in his eye. That only makes Levi smile more. All the fear in his stomach leaves when he sees Eren happy. Seeing Eren happy makes him happy and that's literally the best feeling in the world for the model. Knowing he has someone to hold at night and some gets to hold him. Knowing someone shares the same intense feelings as himself and they're not unrequited. Knowing someone needs him as much as he needs them.

Yeah.

Levi couldn't have asked for anyone better.

"Levi, hurry! Or else you're not gonna get a piece!" Eren called. He doesn't respond but he continues down the steps, a smile tugging at his lips. "Mikasa's setting the candles!"

"Yeah yeah yeah, I'm comin' princess." He mutters under his breath.

As soon as he walks into the kitchen, Mikasa has already lit the cake. But then, she pauses. Her eyes are heavily focused on Eren. Her dark orbs darkening before they widen.

"Eren, what are those?" She asks, already marching to him. And Levi already a feeling what she's talking about. This is only going to get worse. Seems Eren's already caught on, thankfully and when Mikasa try a to pull away the collar on his shirt, he's resisting.

"Mikasa, stop! What are you doing?!"

"Hold still Eren!" She continued to push him up against the wall and once he's backed into a corner, she pins his arms with one hand to his dismay and moves the collar of his- no, Levi's shirt.

"Oh my God, why are you so strong?!" Eren exclaimed. He looks at Levi with far for what is about to happen next. And Levi only stands aside with his arms folded and a blank look on his face.

Eren's lips thin when he hears Mikasa gasp and the entire room gather around to see the commotion.

"Eren..." She mumbles, covering her mouth. She takes a step back, eyes jumping over each new fresh mark on his skin.

"There are so.. Many..." Armin mumbles. "Are those-"

"Jaeger boy has hickeys!" Jean yelled, eyes wide.

As the dining room begins filling with laughter, shock, and arguments, Levi only sat back and allowed it to happen. No point trying to put an end to his sister's rage and trying to subdued Hanji's absurd laughter.

So he sits down at the dining room table and bright colors catch his eyes.

Seems like Eren left his flowers on the table. Did he not like them? He's bought him flowers in the past. Maybe the shenanigan was becoming old? Levi sighed and noticed how four of the roses were separated from the others and put into a line. Lavender, red, white and light pink.

He smiles as he picks them up each one of a time.

He picked white because Eren is beautiful, he's pure and has been blessed with a brand new beginning.

He picked red because it's the symbol of love obviously. Desire, strength, seduction, passion. Each trait he has for Eren and vise versa.

Lavender because Eren is elegant when he wants to be. Other times, he'll be the most boyish, foolish child to grace the plant. Either way, Levi loves him.

And the blush pink rose, his favorite in fact. Adoration. Admiration.

Levi admires Eren's entire existence.

He smiles, his fingers brushing over the bright petals.

He couldn't wait till he finally finds another chance to give Eren his last gift. To see the tears whelm in his eyes, to hold him until the end of time, to finally have Eren.

He could not wait until that faithful day.

"Levi Ackerman, you have two seconds to come here and explain why the hell Eren has hickeys all over him!"

Scratch that. Let's _hope_ he'll _make it_ to that faithful day.

* * *

Translations:  
Forgive me if they're incorrect

"Ces beaux cris, gosse . S'il vous plaît, me chanterplus." ~ "Such beautiful cries, brat. Please sing me more."

"Peau laiteuse..." ~ "Milky skin..."

"Réclamé par moi." ~ "Claimed by me."

"Tu es à moi, Eren," ~ "You are mine, Eren,"

"Vous appartenez à moi. Je veux que chacun sache que. Je veux personne pour vous emmener loin de moi. Je veux que vous tant que ça." ~ "You belong to me. I want everyone to know that. I want nobody to take you away from me. I need you that much."

"Comme je le dis, vous êtes si jolie," ~ "As I say, you're so pretty,"

"Je ne dis pas souvent, mais vous devez être conscient de votre propre beauté ... " ~ "I don't say it often, but you should be aware of your own beauty..."

"La beauté, l'élégance, la grâce, l'intelligence, l'humour, la loyauté, l'amour. Tout plié en vous." ~ "Beauty, elegance, grace, intelligence, humor, loyalty, love. All blended within you."

"Je ne vous entends pas." ~ "I can't hear you."

"Tellement beau. Eren, je ne veux pas vous retenir. Je veux savoir combien vous me aimes. Je dois savoir si tu me aimes la même façon Je t'aime. Merde. Merde. Fu-" ~ "So beautiful. Eren, I don't want you to hold back. I want to know how **much** you love me. I need to know if you love me the same way I love you. Fuck. Fuck. Fu-"

"Votre joli petit cul me sucer dans. Regardez comme elle est jolie." ~ "Your pretty little ass is sucking me in. Look at how pretty it is."

"Pourtant, même après toutes les autres fois, nous baiser, vous êtes toujours serré."~"Still, even after all the other times we fucked, you're still tight."

"Votre trou dévore ma bite." ~ "Your hole is devouring my cock."

"Je vous ai toujours voulu comme ça. Subcumed pour moi. Fusion sous mon contact, des frissons et tremblant à cause de moi. Je l'ai toujours voulu vous faire vivre un tel bonheur de la bonne façon. Romantique, non? Vous avez toujours voulu romantique sexe Juste toi et moi Votre corps chatoyante de sueur pure et le clair de lune;... magnifique. vous regarderez comme une princesse ma princesse " ~

"I've always wanted you like this. Subcumed to me. Melting under my touch, shivering and trembling because of me. I've always wanted you to experience such bliss the right way. Romantically, right? You've always wanted romantic sex. Just you and I. Your body shimmering with sheer sweat and the moonlight; gorgeous. You look like a Princess. My Princess."

"Il est affolant. Comment intense vos intérieurs sont. Comment vous continuez à me avaler plus profond en vous." ~ "It's maddening. How intense your insides are. How you continue to swallow me deeper within you."

"Laissez papa prendre soin de vous, de crier pour moi, Eren." ~ "Let daddy take care of you, scream for me, Eren."

"Laissez papa prendre soin de vous ..." ~ "Let daddy take care of you..."

.  
.

A/N: Oh my God, did I actually just write perfect smut? When I type a regular chapter, there are errors and speaking mistakes. I type this out and it comes out perfect. No errors, no mistakes...

Well, this is the last smut chapter in the story and I really wanted it to have a deep meaning besides sex. And I wanted this chapter to be a revelation for Levi. I wanted him to realize and express how he feels about Eren. I wanted him to be as real as possible and just be honest with Eren.

Like with his reasoning for smoking is due to fear for the future and he does have some anxiety that nobody knows about.

I wanted his smoking habit to be more of a stress reliever than something he just does.

I really love this chapter because I love how raw Levi is towards the end. And that's purely out of love and I'm just in love with this one.

And yes.. I threw in some kinks in there, my apologies but it wouldn't have been as fun to write without them.

Thank A Little Death by the Neighborhood for the smut in the end because it really helped me write it all the way through without stopping which is rare.

I'm going to have to write a Eruri fanfic soon because I absolutely love writing dialogue and the interaction for those two. I'm probably shipping them in the darkest part of my mind.

My little muffins, thanks for all the reviews, follows, favorites you guys leave on this story. I thank you guys dearly for the sweetness like man I love you guys very very much. You guys are great and I couldn't have asked for better, appreciative, responsive readers because I'm inspired to improve my writing for you guys so really, thanks.

Anyway my sugar cookies, I shouldn't keep you here long.

As always, till next time.

Review Response:

StrawBerry234: Thanks. I mean it, thanks a lot. Your words mean a lot, honestly... and to know this was your first fanfiction for the SnK fandom and you enjoyed really means a lot to mean. You have no idea.

PetTheKitten: Haha, yeah... I know... Eren's sad something's in the past... I'm happy to know you're liking my story!

Mitchell343: Lmao, no, Armin is not interested in Petra. And we'll find out Levi's actions for Petra next chapter. And you actually just reminded me that Petra's getting married. Holy shit it just slipped my mind. Thanks for reviewing.

Ern Estine 13624: Is it just getting good now?! The story is almost over!


	33. Chapter Thirty Two: Wedding Cake

"-ome on, Levi, get up. Today's a big day!" Slowly but surely Levi's eyes fluttered and blinked awake as Eren's bright eyes came into view.

Levi rubbed the sleep out of his eyes and sat up with a small yawn. "Good morning, Shorty." Eren greeted with a smile that could blind the sun. His smile radiant and warm much like his eyes. "You know, if you were anyone else I would have mutilated your balls."

This only makes Eren smile bigger. Levi even got a small chuckle as a reward.

"Are you trying to blind me with that big ass smile?" Levi mumbles, pulling on Eren's cheek lovingly. "Well, I mean, you're already short and old and almost ready for the grave... I thought blinding you would add the cherry on top."

Levi only scoffs. "You are one little cheeky shit."

"Yet you still love me,"

"For now I do. You're becoming too confidence where my love is for you. Your arrogence is frightening me."

A quick kiss on the lips and Eren stands. "You should hurry and get dressed. I uh... Forget to set the alarm on my phone and-"

"Are you serious?!" Levi is already out the bed and pacing towards the bathroom. "I was sleepy last night plus you slept in too."

"I thought you was gonna wake me up." He says running a shower and stripping himself of his clothing.

"I did, didn't I?"

"Yeah, late." Levi deadpans, adding extra emphasis on his sentence

"We're not even gonna be late for the wedding. You just woke up later than you intended too. You should really calm it down, gramps. I woke up late all the time and managed to get to class with at least a few seconds to spare." he smirk playfully, leaning against the doorframe of the bathroom. Coincidence as well as ignorance in Levi's point of view, danced in Eren's voice.

"You made it by the skin on your ass."

"I still made it."

"Bullshitter-y at it's finest," Levi mused with a sarcastic air. "You never cease to amaze me, Jaeger."

"Ooh, Jaeger, haven't been called that in a while."

"Seriously, you are waaaay too confident today."

"Care to do something about it?" Eren suggests. Levi can hear that tone in Eren's voice. Yes, Eren never did cease to amaze him. Levi could only roll his stone cold eyes and answer with a gruff, "No."

"What's got your panties in a twist?" Eren only chuckles and waltzes in the bathroom, a small devious smirk on his face.

"Can I shower with you?"

"No." He repsonds.

"Whhhhy?" And now he wants to act like a child.

"Because. I know what you're doing." he called back.

"..." Eren strips from his t-shirt and boxers and opens the sliding glass door to be greeted by an all naked Levi. "I told you not to come in here,"

"I know what you said," the taller boy sneaks up behind Levi and wraps his arms around him. Pressing his chest to his back, he sways the smaller body left and right as he buries his nose on the nape of his neck.

"God, Eren, your armpits smell like a goat's nutsack."

"Told you I need a shower. And rude! I like the smell of my airpits, thank you very much."

Levi looks up at the male who towers him. "I'll bathe you.. Then..."

"Of course,"

"But we're gonna be late,"

"We already are, aren't we?"

Eren smiles. "Good point."

**~·~**

Levi couldn't help but feel... Unsettled. As they finally arrived at the wedding, the more the feeling grew in the pit of his stomach. Possibly... It was the feeling of anxiety or excitedness, maybe even a small sense of happiness. Levi couldn't exactly put his finger on it, but, he could pinpoint the feeling deep within his stomach.

As the engine cut off, Eren's small noises of surprise filled the silence. The area was huge, grand, extravagant. Another sight Eren gets to keep planted in his memory. Although Levi smiled gently, a frown tugged tightly at his lips. And he supposed Eren noticed his change of mood. Because he felt Eren's hand on his. Warm, inviting.

"Something's wrong,"

Levi doesn't respond, simply he shrugs.

"You don't wanna be here, do you? I told you, if you don't want to show up, we don't have to. You can't force yourself to do something you don't want to." Eren says reassuringly. Levi blinks. He's not caught off guard, maybe he's considering Eren's words.

But, what comes out his mouth is denying every last thing he said.

"That's not it. I wouldn't show up if I didn't want to be here, you of all people should know that. I want to be here. I want to support Petra... But.. At the same time, just thinking everything that has happened..." his words trailed off as his voice died down. The model closed his eyes and lets out a heavy sigh. "There's something I need to do... To... You know... Clear up my conscience, I guess?"

Eren's face falls to something leaning between deadpan and irritation. "You're still in love with her aren't you?"

"No, not at all!" Levi shouts accidently. That came out a lot louder and harsh than he intended it to. He mumbled a quick apology to Eren, even though the boy only held a sly smirk on his face from Levi's reaction. The model silently wondered if he was creating a monster...

He lowered his head, and let the words flow from his lips, slowly and with caution. "...If I love her, it's more of a... Respectful and caring type of love. Like love shared between friends. It's something else I feel the need to get off my chest."

The silence falls between them and finally, Levi's head whips towards Eren to see he's staring right back at him. Carribian eyes large and expressive, exposing all of Eren's deepest emotions. Something in his eyes says he understands, yet something else is doubtful. But, still, Eren cups Levi's cheek in his hand and uses his thumb to rub underneath the dark ring of his left eye. Once again, he smiles reassuringly. "Well... We're wasting time out here, aren't we? We... We should head on inside."

**~·~**

His thoughts run rapid through his scrambled head, but only one saying continues popping up in the jumbled clutter of thoughts.

Today's a big day... Isn't it?

Standing in the large mirror in his room, Levi stares at himself. Hair slicked back nicely thanks to Eren, suit hugging each dip and curve of his body, fitted perfectly against his small frame.

He fixed the cuffs of his sleeves and ran a hand along the hem of his coat. A small cough comes from the door and Levi casts a sideways glance acknowledging his partner. "As handsome as always," Eren mumbles quietly, entering the room strictly for family of the bride. Petra did give the go ahead for Eren and Levi to dress there, but, Levi decided to get dressed without Eren's company.

Reluctantly, Eren gave Levi some alone time to gather and piece his thoughts as he got dressed. He walks up behind Levi, his suit also fitting him like a glove.

All thanks to Erwin's tailor.

"You're one to talk. I haven't seen you dolled up in ages." Levi smirks. Running skillful fingers along Eren's hips, his hands guide Eren in front of him. He sets his chest against Eren's. "I'm surprised you haven't bitched about the suit nor the price of it. You really are spoiled rotten."

"You always say that," Eren laughed. "Today is... Different... I suppose. You really didn't have to buy this... I have a suit already-"

"Yes, but, this one is a gift from me."

"You always say that too..." Eren mutters.

Levi simply chuckles and laces his hand in Eren's. They both stand before the large mirror, their reflections before them. Levi's eyes scans over every piece of the mirror. Especially over Eren's body, it even causes him to smile a bit. So, in return, Eren squeezes Levi's hand tightly.

"Mikasa sent me to tell you the wedding is being delayed for about an hour. So the reception is starting at two thirty instead of one thirty..."

Levi turns on his heels, his eyes narrowing. "Why is that?" Eren pulls Levi along behind him. They walk to a large plush chair near the back of the room in front of the grand, gold trimmed window. "I don't know, Mikasa won't tell me. She just told me to forward the message."

The model nods slowly and finally looks Eren in his ocean pool eyes. "I see... I'm going to go talk to her, why don't you head back downstairs with Armin and the others?"

Eren jumps up quickly, a giant goofy smile plastered on his face. "I'm way ahead of you."

**~·~**

Levi paces down long corridors with quick long strides. So far, he's asked about four chouffers where the bride might be and each have given him the same answer. However, finding the damn place with so many different paths to go was a completely different story. Fuck, if only Eren remembered to give him the invite so they would show up to wedding rehersals. Atleast then he would have a sense where everything is. For fucks sakes, this place is like a damn labyrinth.

Not to mention the heat that's already trying to settle in. And the very last thing Levi wants is to sweat up his new suit and not have a chance to wash himself nor the suit. He slows his steps now, realizing he's come to a dead end. The large double door before him is the entrance to the bridge to the reception.

He scratches his undercut with a hand on his hip as he looks around. He's on the brink of giving up and turing around at this point. So he begins walking off. Although, he would've continued in his tracks if he didn't hear a loud hurl from the other end of the room. He turns and automatically begins pacing around the large hallway waiting for another sound to emit. His ears are straining in the silence.

And soon, he hears a wet cough come from down the hallway followed by a low groan, and Levi's already walking to it. "Petra?" Levi calls, recognizing the cough. At the near end of the hallway are three doors. Two adjacent to each other and one at the end of the hallway not too far from the other, obviously larger ones.

He hears the heaving get heavier followed by a wave of nausea. For a moment, Levi's blood goes cold. This can't be Petra... Right...? He presses an ear to the door and hears a small whimper followed by weight being pushed against the door. He swallows thickly and decides to knock. "Petra?... Is that you? It's uh.. Me... Levi..." his voice dies down when he says his name.

He hears shuffling, slow shuffling as it sounds as if she doesn't have much energy left in her. She flushed the toliet and runs the sink for a few minutes before the door finally opens to reveal a half dressed, pale woman. Her eyes are heavy and traces of saliva and snot are present. She smiles weakly.

"Wow uh... You look beautiful," that's only half a lie and partial sarcasm from Levi's end. She snorts softly and fixed her posture.

"I've felt and looked better honestly," she dismisses casually. She wipes the excess vile and snot from her face with the back of her hand and proceeds to wash them. Levi can only watch on in silence, not sure what to say. Hell, he's not even sure what to think.

"So what brings you here today?" She asks casually, taking a seat on the now closed toliet. Her legs are becoming heavy.

He chuckles and he raises a thin brow. "Uh... Your wedding, I believe. I may also want to know what it's like to take a shit in a castle and historic landmark so I'll be sure to cross that off my list later."

She laughs wholeheartedly which makes Levi smile a little. It lifts a little of that dark edge from his face, thankfully. "Sorry, I completely forgot about my wedding. I mean, I just vomited my guts out. Second time today, sadly."

"Is that why the reception is being delayed?"

She shrugs. Her eyes advert from Levi to her now crossed hands. Freshly manicured French nails pick at each other. "That and... I just need some time to myself, you know? In a few hours, I'm no longer going to be Petra Ral, but Petra Bozado. So... I don't know, time is moving really fast. I mean really fast," she chuckles and finally looks up.

She stands up and walks towards Levi. She takes his cold hands in hers and gives it a light squeeze before setting it on her stomach. And just from the one action, his inquiries have been comfirmed.

"And I'm already expecting my first."

Levi's expression at first doesn't faulter, which begins to make Petra feel a little anxious. She actually thought Levi would be happy to hear about her pregnancy. Soon, Levi retracts his hand and instead, welcomes Petra with a warm embrace. It's not the same as hugging Eren. His hugs to Eren are a form of love and affection, this hug is more a reassuring hug. One that's comforting and certain of the future.

"Congratulations," Levi mumbles, a smirk growing on his face. "He or she better not turn out anything like him."

She raised both brows and ends in a smile. "I'll do my best."

And once again, Levi's face falls to something blank and deadpan.

"Is there something bothering you?"

He blinks and sighs heavily. This has been racing through his mind from the beginning. But, he's never really found a way to express his thoughts correctly. And hearing the new news, he wants to be... Certian, if that's the right word to use.

"We need to talk." he said bluntly. His face showing no sign of new emotion what so ever. No point in beating around the bush, right? She eyes him with curiosity before agreeing silently.

They walked through the long corridor of the castle in silence. Giant openings overlooking the garden and the sun captured Levi's attention as he stared in almost disbelief of the sight. The reception space was being filled below as people greeted and talked to one another. He inhaled deeply, smelling the fresh scent of newly cut grass. They walked in silence to Petra's dismay. Thoughts scrambled through her mind as she began to wonder what exactly Levi pulled her over for. Maybe he was upset since the wedding is so close... Two hours to be exact. Maybe anxiety is starting to set in as the big "I do's" near. No it can't be that last one. That was a silly thought. She looked up from her feet, caught off guard to see Levi staring at the scenery that's below them. She smiled slightly.

"Beautiful sight, isn't it?" She says, pulling his suit jacket over her almost bare body more.

"... Beautiful sight indeed... Petra?"

"Yes?"

"Are you sure you want to-"

"Marry Auruo? Yes Levi, I do," She confirmed. "Why do you ask?"

He doesn't respond. His pace slows down and soon he stops in his tracks. Petra turns. Levi only stared her down, and this is that one common moment where Petra wishes she could read Levi's mind. She wants to know what he's thinking, what's swimming through his mind. "There are some things I can't tell you but I can tell you this," he takes a quick inhale of breath.

"Auruo has done many bad things. No, he's not unfaithful. But... What he's done is even worse," Levi paused. He allows that to sink in between them. "I want you to be happy. You know that. And if he makes you happy then obviously he's the one until proven otherwise. I can't make your decisions for you. But, I need you to remain safe. Petra,"

"Yes?"

"Promise me you'll stay safe. And not just you now, but you and your child." Petra smiled softly and walked over to Levi. She started getting close, and closer. And on instinct, Levi began walking backwards. "U-um, Petra, what are you-!" and their lips connected, Petra locked her arms around Levi and as quick as it happen, it ended.

"Why the hel-" His voice died down as his anger was already building up. Not only did he just kissed someone other than Eren, it was also unconsented and it was with his ex-girlfriend! Was she trying to make a joke out of him? He wasn't trying to hook them back up. This is not what he planned. He didn't want to get back with her, he's moved on to better. And he has no intent to ruin it. Already his words has formed in his mind, spewing from his lips.

"Look, Petra. I don't know what the fuck you're trying to pull but-!"

"Thank you," she mumbled. And there goes his anger. Out the window like wind.

He blinks. And then blinks again. "What?" he asks dumbfounded.

"I said thank you. Just thanks for everything. Honestly, thank you."

He's wiping at his lips which only makes Petra laugh. "I've been wanting to do that for a while,"

"Please stop," Levi begins trying to walk away.

"Levi, I just wanted to say thank you-"

"That doesn't mean to fucking kiss me." His eyes narrow but that doesn't make Petra's smile die. Is his look not that intimidating right now? He'll try harder.

"I'll take your words into consideration. But Levi," he doesn't respond instead he's leaning on the edge of the balcony, head in hands. His shoulders tense when her frail hand settles on them.

"Promise me that you'll take good care of Eren. And no matter what happens, we'll always be friends. That kiss meant nothing. Just... An understanding between us, I guess."

"You're trying to mess with me. I can't keep doing this, make up your fucking mind! You didn't accept my proposal, I moved on, fell in love again and all of a sudden you just fucking kiss me! God damn it, Petra, I can't keep going on with this... I just can't... I don't know if you're starting to fall in love with me again but... I don't love you anymore."

"I know..." she mutters quietly. She walks up closer behind him. The quiet pitter-patter of the soles of her feet against the concrete ground. Her chest presses against him, and she buries her chin on his shoulder. He pushes her away gently but she stands her ground. "I don't love you either. But I do have deep respect and understanding of you. I love you very much... Like... Family. I don't want to marry you, nor do you want my hand in marriage-" this angers Levi and he pushes Petra off him. He begins walking away with angered strides, pushing his locks from his eyes.

"Levi wait!" she calls. The woman doesn't run after him, but she does fix his jacket securely around her.

"Eren and I are leaving,"

"You can leave," she starts, confidence building in her voice. "But you're going to regret it."

A fault in his steps. "And you wanna know why you're gonna regret it? Because deep down you care about me too. But... If you do leave, I want you to know that I'll still want you to be apart of my life. You and Eren. And it's too soon for us to part our seperate ways." Her mouth finally closes and her lips thin. She only stares at the still standing Levi with sympathetic, concerend eyes.

"I wouldn't be standing here in my undergarments if I didn't want you apart of my wedding. I wouldn't have told you about my pregnancy either. Auruo doesn't know about it. My own mother doesn't know yet. So if you leave now..."

"Just stop already. Stop trying to guilt trip me."

"I'm not, Levi! Stop being so stubborn all the time and hear me out, okay? Now make up your damn mind and give me your choice. I don't have all day."

"Don't talk to me as if I'm dirt. You made a fool of me once, and I'll be damned if I let that happen again."

"You're never going to let go of the past... Are you?"

"I've moved on." he says simply. He turns on his heel and stares Petra down. His silence and dark glare is a sign meaning he wants to hear her out. He's willing to give her one slim chance and if she fucks it up, that's it.

"I'll understand if we no longer exchange words but before you do that... There's one last thing I want you to do for me..."

"Which is...?"

**~·~**

_It's almost time..._ Levi thinks, his hands crossed as he rests against a column of the building. He looks at the party guest below as they begin to get seated. He notices Eren greeting everyone at the entrance to the ceremony. A wide smile on his face as a few greet him, knowing of his reputation as a new model.

He rolled up the sleeves of his purple collared shirt to his elbow and tightened the black suspenders on his pants. Checking the watch on his wrist, he sighs softly.

He pinpoints heals clicking against the cement floor. His head turns and his breath hitches. A knot is caught in his throat and his muscles tense.

The dress was smooth, laced patterned sleeves rests gently on her bare, slender shoulders. The heart shaped neckline trailed down her sides and came to an end at the small of her back. But the thing that makes his jaw drop is the long, flowing train. Hand made, delicate flower petals decorated the end of her dress, about six flowers sat in the disarray of petals. Each flower with a few small diamonds in the middle. "A dress created for a princess," as Eld put it. And, as Hanji suggested, the dress comes off her hips enough so it's not too poofy. Enough to "give her some more curve to her body."

When she finished the finishing touches, she was speechless- and yet, here she is again. Speechless.

And Levi is no different.

She smiled and inhales deeply. "How do I-"

"Beautiful." he says simply. She smiled and hugs Levi. Her arms are tight around his back and she breaks their contact shortly after. "I still can't believe I'm getting married in a few minutes!" She exclaimed happily, walking over to the view of her ceremony space below. "I swear I think I'm gonna be sick."

"Are you serious!? I'll usher you to the restroom if you need it."

The ginger haired female laughed wholeheartedly. She turns on her heels and looks at Levi with big eyes. "If I get sick, I'll be sure to share the joys of having a baby all over my husband."

"As long as it's not me, go for it." The man smiles and walks over to his friend, locking his arm around her's and looking down at her. "May I lead the way, Ms. Bozado?" Saying her wedded name is very foreign on his tongue. Like a poison. Or... Maybe like a sweet tasting poison, just to make it a tad bit lighter.

"Don't call me that yet. But yes, lead the way if you will."

**~·~**

Everything was settled and quieted down in anticipation for the bride's arrival.

Everyone has walked down the aisle in their respective roles in the wedding and only one woman was missing from the scene. Of course she had to take a breather for a moment or two to get her stomach out of the headlock and mess of knots it was in. But once she heard the soft tune playing through the reception space and everybody standing to greet her, she felt all the tension in her stomach release and she carried on with her head held high.

She walks down the aisle arm and arm with the man who is special to her. Someone whom she had her ups and downs with, someone who she looks up to and admires. Her ex boyfriend, her co-worker, her friend.

Today is the day she promises to be forever his and no one else's. Though it may sound selfish, that's how things are. As the soft violins converse with the lovely harp, she draws closer to the alter. The beautifully decorated arch behind the priest, covered in white. Auruo's heart raced watching her. His face flushed. Petra's mother, Auruo's aunt, and Moblit records this precious and valuable moment.

Levi spots Eren next to Gunther, his eyes widened in surprise as a smile tugs on his plump lips. Levi flashes a quick smirk at him before looking forward and catching Auruo's eyes. The man slits his eye at Levi briefly before looking back at Petra. Levi only scoffs under his breath and carries on.

You know, he doesn't care about the shitty looks he recives from the groom. He doesn't care about the BS he's probably gonna get for walking Petra down the aisle. Or even for showing his damming face at the wedding. He doesn't care because he's doing this for Petra. He's supporting her on a big, important day. And he knows if this was his and Eren's wedding, she'd be seated within the front of the crowd with tears brimming her eyes. She's been there for him. He'll always be there for her. Everyone sits down simultaneously as the music comes to a graceful end and they reached the top of the alter.

"Thank you, Levi." She kissed the side of his cheek and he returned the same gesture. Earning a deep scowl from her husband to be, he made his way next to Eren.

"We are gathered here today to join this lovely couple in matrimony." the priest opened up with these words. Everyone was completely silent, giving their upmost devoted respect to the couple.

"Will the groom please say his vows?"

"Petra, I love you more than myself, and more than life itself. I will and would do anything for you. I will protect you, provide for you, and treat you better than anyone. Don't get me wrong but, I am not going to be your slave. But, I am going to be what you want, your husband. I will give you my all. You've taken me through Hell and back. I've known you since my childhood years and fell in love as soon as I laid eyes on you. I'm ready to go into the next phase of my life with you by my side."

"Do you, Auruo Bozado take Petra Ral to be your lawfully wedded wife?" he asks the dark young man.

"I do." he replies loudly and pridefully

He takes a glance back at Levi and smiles a big goofy smile.

"Vows from the bride, if you may."

"Auruo, I promise to love you with my deepest love, my fullest devotion, and my tender care. I promise to be a good wife, a devoted partner, a loving mother... And I promise to give our marriage my all." She glanced over at Eren and ended up smiling a tad bit wider.

"Do you, Petra Ral, take Auruo Bozado to be your lawfully wedded husband?" he faces the young maiden about to be wedded.

"I..." her smile faulters a little and she looks at the audience. They sit back waiting for her to accept the propsal. But she never does and the space is an eerie silence. "I can't... Not at the moment."

To say the entire crowd was surprised would be an understatement to the least. Even Hanji held a face of shock. Levi's eyes narrowed slightly at Petra, wanting to know her reasoning to this. Eren looked at Levi, his eyes showing a heart that could collapse at any moment at any turn of expected events. Levi noticed this and grips his hand for reassurance and kissed his soft cheek.

"I can't accept your ring until after I do this."

And that's when it happens.

Cold, tight metal slammed against his wrist. It took him a few seconds to understand what was happening. And before a word could slip past his lips, Eld's voice pooled into his ears.

"Auruo Bozado, you're under arrest for first degree murder of Ms. Carla Jaeger, false accusations against Levi Ackerman, and commiting arson."

And Levi's not sure if maybe he murmured something in his sleep or if he turned himself in- which is very unlikely- or maybe he told Petra but, his mouth was caught ajar and his eyes widened with surpirse.

What a big day this was, indeed.

"You fucking bastard!" Levi thanks every God there is for his speed of light reflexs becuase if he hadn't caught Eren in time who knows the bloodshed that would've happened. Fucking sucks he got elbowed in the jaw and scratched here and there. Plus he wasn't able to contain the little raging, emotion and testosterone fueled fireball named Eren. Mikasa tried to hold him down, even Gunther who's an officer had trouble trying to restrain Eren. He was crying, he was screaming, he was furious. It hurt to see Eren in that state. Perhaps this is for the best. The last step in Eren healing. It ended with Eren getting handcuffed and pinned down by Mikasa, Erwin, Levi and Gunther until he finally calmed down enough. It took some comforting on Levi's end but he got there within an hour or so.

It hurt Levi to see the poor kid devastated as he was. But Eren was happy once he realized he did some damage on Auruo, but he bluntly states that he's better off dead.

When Eren's calmed, he's ushered out the room. Tears prickling his ocean green, fury stricken eyes. Levi is ready to follow behind but he's stopped by Petra.

"Why didn't you tell somebody sooner?"

"The real question is how did you know?"

"I asked first." She says sternly. Everybody is moving about around them. Some in shock, some dissapointed, some utterly confused.

"I... I didn't want anybody to get hurt. Specifically Eren. I've lost enough people in my life and I would've been... Lost if Eren died. I wouldn't know what to do or what I would've become," he paused for a moment, when Petra's hand touched his shoulder. "..It's selfish, I know."

"Not at all. You love Eren. As well as the people you're surrounded by. I'm sorry for all that's happened. I was blind and I let it slip past me."

"Don't say that,"

"But, I-"

"Look, let's just put this behind us for now. I should go to Eren." He has no time to argue with the ginger right now.

She smiled. "You're right," she walks over to Auruo and picks up the ring not too far from him. "I, Petra Ral, take you, Auruo Bozado as my lawfully wedded husband." The ring is slipped onto her finger and she placed a bittersweet deep kiss on her husband's angered lips.

"See you in ten years, _sweetie_." She mumbled darkly, a sly smirk on her baby pink lips. Those were the first and last words he heard from his new wife for a very long while.

**~·~**

The after party went on... Somewhat normally. After the confusion was cleared up, everybody went on trying to enjoy their time. Auruo was taken away by Gunther and his trial was in approximately two weeks according to Eld. Petra's mother was most the most on edge than all, especially after Petra formally announced her pregnancy.

Everybody was excited. Hanji a little too excited, but this was a time to rejoice.

Everyone was somewhat... Happy. Everyone except two men who were currently out of reach from one another. Levi felt disrespectful, almost completely tuning out Petra's mother as she spoke to him. But it wasn't intentional, no. He worried for Eren. The teen sitting on the balcony isolated from the rest of the party upset him. Learning that you attended the wedding of your mother's murder is a lot to process. A lot for your brain and emotions to break down and understand. Levi knew better than to bring him here... He shouldn't have kept this hidden so long.

His selfish desires have come to bite him in the ass once more.

"Excuse me," he finally said, cutting off her mother midway her setence. He was off before the woman could say anything about him being rude. But not only is he worried about Eren, if he has to listen to Petra's mother wanting to get to know Erwin Smith a little better he will have to choke somebody.

He makes sure his steps are quiet, and graceful. Making sure not to disturb Ere-

"I know you're there, Levi."

The model snickered and takes a seat on the curved balcony ledge. "I was James Bond for a second, don't you think?"

"Nope." he answers dully, his lips making a pop. "That's what they all say, brat. You watch, I'm gonna be in the next movie. Then what're you gonna say?"

"..."

This time, a deep frown is engraved in Levi's thin lips. His eyes darkening with each passing second. "You know that's one of your favorite movies."

"_So?_" There was a venomous tinge to his voice. "It was my mom's too..." Ouch. Smooth move, Levi.

"Oh." he replies grimly. "I didn't know that."

"Why did you lie to me?"

"I didn't lie to you. I just didn't tell you."

"Which is just as bad as lying." He snaps, a soft crack in Eren's voice before he put his head in his hands. That's when Levi's instincts kicked in.

Gentle but cold arms wrapped around Eren followed by him stroking his dark brown locks. "Come on, now. Tears don't look good on a princess." A small giggle arises from his partner. Levi takes Eren's chin with his thumb and places butterfly kisses on his lips, making the teen laughing a little harder.

"Stop, I hate that," he smiled.

"Whatever you spoiled shit," with his thumb, he wipes all his tears from his eyes followed by another kiss. And then, a comfortable silence falls between them.

"... You know, you have a killer right hook."

Eren looks up, slightly surprised. "Really? You always said I was built like a twevle year old girl."

"You are," Levi answered nonchalantly. "But I swear you dislocated Auruo's jaw."

"Pfft," his large eyes roll then end with heavy lids and knitted brows. "He's a shit head."

"Whoa, slow your roll there, Levi Jr. There's only room for one Levi and that's me."

"Haha, it was only shit joke."

"Children shouldn't curse."

"I'm twenty."

"Yeah, twenty minus twelve years." Levi joked. He took a seat next to Eren and pulled him into a tight embrace, kissing the top of his head.

Another short silence has passed them. And as Levi holds Eren tightly in his embrace, as he listens to the calming breaths of his lover, he begins to feel more sure in his self. Levi's heart begins to race. His palms begin to sweat and his muscles tense slightly.

"Hey, Eren," He works his courage up dispite the newfound nervousness. Even though his words came out dry, he still applauded himself mentally for the ability even voice his words.

This had to mean something good, right?

"Yeah?" he responded almost immediately.

"Well... Um... I've been meaning to.. Ask you something... For a long while now..."

Caribbean blue eyes look into grey ones.

"Will you-" he caught himself, covering up his words with a cough. He face burned red and he sighed.

"Levi, are you-"

"_Howdoyoufeelaboutmarriage_?" It all came out in one jumbled sentence and Eren could only catch a few words from it. His face heated up and a small noise elicited from Eren.

"I..."

"How do you feel about marriage, princess?" he asked slower, his words coming out slightly shaken but more confident from before. And this time, Eren smiled. A big, bright smile that makes Levi's heart race, harder than it's ever pounded before. It's beating against his chest, it's making his breathing quicken.

Could this mean...

Two hands cuff Levi's cheeks followed by a warm smile. He kissed the tip of Levi's nose and inhaled deeply.

"No. I'm not ready."

And those four little words are enough to make Levi's smile die, the brightness in his world dim completely, and his world crumble in his very hands. And there's nothing he can do about it.

"...Oh." _Oh._ The sound of one's heart breaking into a million pieces.

"But, hear me out," Eren mumbles softly, wiping away any tears threatening to spill. "I'm not ready for marriage becuase I remember what my mom told me. She said for me to live my life... And.. Marraige... That's.. Just too soon. I'm not ready to settle down and start my family just yet. With my mother's... Death... I'm just.. Not ready... Not yet."

"..."

"Please, understand,"

"I do, Eren..."

"I'm sorry..." he holds Levi a little bit tighter.

"For what, princess?"

"Not being ready... It must hurt... And I'm sorry... I want to be with you, believe me, please. "

Levi smiled softly, his lips quivering softly as he tries his damn hardest not to cry. "I will wait. I'll wait for the day to call you my wife."

"Husband." Eren corrected.

"Wife."

"Husband."

"You're going to be my wife, Eren. Stop trying to argue with me." The teen sighed a defeated sigh and smiled gently. "Fine," he grumbled, setting his nose in the crook of Levi's neck. "I'll be your wife."

"Good. That's all I needed to hear."

"Plus, when I think about it, how strange would it be that I've already tied the knot and I'm only a college student?"

"College...?" Levi murmured. His eyebrows knotting together in thought.

"Yeah. I mean to me, I think I shouldn't be married and I'm only a college freshma-"

"How much is your college tuituon?"

"Huh, college.. Tuituon..?"

Levi raised a brow and sighed. "Yes, your college tuition, brat. I still have to hold up my end of the deal, don't you remember? An hour in a photo session and a-"

"Full paid tuition..." he finished, smiling to himself. And to think snapping a couple of photos transformed his life completely. He completely forgot about their little deal made back in August. It's been so long... So much has happened, there is a lot he's experienced. He's grown up in a way.

Hell, he still has more growing to do.

"Well...? We don't have all night you know."

"Seventeen thousand and five hundred..."

"Ah, so eighteen grand basically?"

"Yeah..."

"Alright," Levi reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a sleek black checkbook and opens it. "You have a pen, brat?"

"What? No? Bu-but I think there's one- wait, you're writing me a tuition check now?"

"Obviously," he answers with a roll of his eyes.

"You know, Levi, you don't have to."

"I'm not one to go against my word. Plus, it's only fair."

"Can we just stop by Rose University tomorrow, prove to them I'm not a dropout and im not completely fucked on drugs then we can pay them?"

Levi paused for a moment followed by a raised brow and a slow nod. "Sure. Yeah, make things easier on the both of us."

Eren smiles softly and snuggles closer to Levi. His nose in the crook of his neck, comfortably. He closed his eyes and allowed his thoughts to wonder. And Levi was appreciative of this silence.

"Hey, you two horndogs!" Annnnd Levi spoke waaay too soon. Levi's head whipped back furiously and a dangerous glare was sent to none of other than Hanji, the Queen of ruining everything that is Levi's romantic life. "It's time for a family photo!"

**~·~**

"Is my tie crooked?"

"No Erwin, your tie is fine."

"Look at this snoobish bastard."

"Pfft, Levi, you're one to talk."

"Shut it, Princess."

"Levi, don't say words like that!"

"Ms. Ral, I mean no disrespect but I'm a grown man-"

"Trapped in an infants body!"

"Shut it with your fucking four eyes, shit face."

"Guys, quit bickering, I'm trying to take the picture!" Moblit hollered over their starting arugment. He sighs and ajust the lense a little bit.

"Ah, guys move in closer... And Petra, move forward a little bit, yes, thank you."

Eren's smiled gently as he felt Levi inch closer and take his hand in his. He could smell Levi's cologne and it gave him goosebumps. Time seemed to slow for the dark haired boy, and slowly his smile began to falter as he entered his thoughts.

Everything has changed. So much as changed. Going from rags to riches in a few months, being a nobody to nearly every person on the street wanting an autograph and picture. Not even knowing Levi's existence to wanting to be in his hold for eternity.

He was granted freedom although that cost him a devastating but strengthening loss.

Eren is growing up. Seconds of his life is vanishing right before his eyes. He's closer to better things in life, living life, a new chapter in his life all the way to the end of his life.

He looks at Hanji. If it wasn't for her waltzing into the cafe and acting like a madman demanding he works with Levi, none of this would be happening. He thanks her silently.

He looks at Erwin. He gave him his job at Recon. He helped progess Eren's fame and signed him to his company. He helped him advance in his carrer in modeling and brought Eren to many modeling agencies and different companies globally. He thanks him silently.

He looks at Petra, soft lipgloss smile on her face. She showed him kindness and respect. She made him feel confident in his modeling abilities and pursue a career in modeling. He thanks her silently as well.

He looks at the key that rests confidently over his chest. His fingers trace over the cold gold. He thanks his mother. For giving birth to him, she didn't have to put her body through the hardships and stress of pregnancy yet she put him over her and it's been that way for all nineteen years of his short life. She put up with Eren's stubbornness, anger, laughter, jokes, sadness, angst and never once hesitated to be by his side and help him through such troubling times. He owes so much to his mother, and he promises to repay the debt he owes to her by doing as her last wish was. For him to live.

He thanks her and will continue to thank her until he is placed by her side in the ground and he's finally in her embrace somewhere beyond.

Sea hued eyes looks up for one last time and Eren can't help but realize, this is exactly how his first shoot went.

The nervousness he felt back then was ghosting on his spine, although, this time, with straightened posture and a gleaming white glistening smile one thought ran through his head:

_Take a deep breath and smile for the camera._

* * *

A/N: I deserve to be killed for the looong break I took from Fanfiction all together. A lot has been going on for the past year, losing a family member really did take a toll on me. And my best friend used me and took advantage of me in ways that I still cant even stomach to this day, my grades dropped but i managed to bring them back up. I changed schools due to bullying and my friends stabbed me in the back and betrayed me and I accidently deleted the origianl fucking chapter for the last chapter and at that point I was done. Life was just being an ass to me and I didn't feel the need to do anything. It was a short depression of about 1-3 months and a long healing period but I'm back.

I actually had mixed thoughts on finishing this story and I wasn't intending on finishing MDM. But, idk what came over me, inspiration I suppose and I just felt the need to finish this. It would've been super selfish not to finish this and I just had to. Even if no one reads these remaining chapters due to the update dates, I'm happy to know I finished what I started.

I want to thank every single one of you who read this story and appreciated its flaws and all. You're all very special to me and for my first fanfic, you guys gave me the confidence to finish it and continue making more. I cant express how thankful I am for my readers. You guys are spectacular, you don't even understand what you guys mean to me.

I've been asked this many times so, here's my answer, there might be a sequel. If anything, not for a while. I'd like to post my other works and explore different themes and different fandoms. Will there be a sequel to this, possibly. Just give it some time and when its ready, it'll be posted and the second part will be a go.

Once again, thank you guys. You're all extremely special to me

For now, this is farewell.

FujoshiNiyaku: I love Get Scared, rock music, music in general. Although my favorite band is NBHD. And thannnk yoooouuu~ and it makes me feel special you made an account to read this.

hidansbabe530: You already know there's a next time. Third shot at proposing is a charm:)

Dreamshipper229: I will not kill off my freckled baby. This fandom's manga has done enough harm to the freckled child of god. And I actually have noo idea where I got the whole modeling AU from. Or perhaps I don't remember? And I actually wasn't going to update... But idk, i didn't want to leave it just at the 32nd chapter incompleted. Thanks for reviewing.

JulianneL: Ahh, I tried not to make it like that. I completely understand where you're coming from and I'm sorry about the accidental slight dubcon in it... Not on purpose and I know you're not trying to flame me, thank you for the constructive critism. It's very appreciated. And thanks for enjoying this fanfic.

nate-the-noob: I can agree on the best chapters. I was so proud of this chapter honestly. And ugh, i feel so bad for updating so late and you're hella spot on with those two questions. I thought i could cover up her pregnancy but oh well~ thanks for reviewing. And there's an end to this story. I might do a sequel, I haven't decided yet. I want to put other works out there first.

sadL: Fucking evil indeed, lmao. Just smut and drama, that's all you want? I got a one-shot just for you. Thanks for reviewing. And I'm planning on smut one shots, just need to find the inspiration to either start or finish them.

abuseangellovsyaoi: Mmm i adore this smut as well. Im so proud of being a pervert in this scene. Like it came out so good, I don't want to be cocky. And thank you!

Guest: you actually did my reaction when i read MakoHaru shit. And who doesn't love Eren's booty?

sadL: lmao, nooo. Gingers I've met are the sweetest little cinnamon rolls. Thanks for reviewing

MeliLouiseNorth: Appreciate Hanji the Queen of Cockblock. And he finally asked Eren... But my baby will accept the ring soon. Thanks for reviewing :)

PurpleOmpski: Believe me, the way Levi is going to propose in the second story will having you crying from the fluff. Cutest fucking thing I've ever thought of.

MggiexxLove: Uhh cause Hanji ruins everything... And yeah...

Ern Estine 13624: Thaaaaank you. And sadly, this is the end buddy. :)

SkyTheShadowWolf: Mmm Soul Eater fan... I have like three fanfics in mind for that fandom. And Liz and Patty are probably scarier thugs than Levi... Naah.

CaptainoftheRirenShip: Lol, this wedding was good. And Petra came to her senses. Thanks for reviewing :)

StrawBerry234: Thanks for the kind words and I can't say it's that great. And wow, for it being your first for the fandom and for Ereri made me extremely eleated. Despite it's errors and flaws. Thank you so much for enjoying this. For this being my first fanfic for both this fandom and overall, this comment made me tear up along with the others. I'm really glad you enjoyed it.

And yeah... Sadly, this might be the only story that'll I'll respond to everybody's review. Or possibly for a long while. It was my first so I wanted to make sure you guys all felt as special as I did creating each chapter. Seriously, thank you. And I sat down and I had to put throught into Eren's gift. I didn't want something too over the top... Maybe the lingerie but the roses were symbolic and beautiful. It truly does mean Eren has important and significant meaning in Levi's life. Thanks for reviewing...

PetTheKitten: Lol, right? Thanks for the review :)


	34. Epilogue: Dark & Milk Chocolate

**_Epilogue_**

_3 months later, Paris, France_

_Kuchel Ackerman_

_Loving daughter, wife, and mother. Sickness may have taken over her body but not her soul and living, vibrant spirit._

"Thirteen years of seperation..." A soft voice mumbled. There's an inhale through his nose and an exhale through his mouth. He began laying down a flower from the bouquet of Zinnias and Strawflowers varying uniquely in shape and color.

"I'm sure you already know this mom but, my boyfriend, Eren, has lost his mother recently. And, this is selfish but as I was comforting him, all I could think about was you and losing a part of my life. I understood how Eren felt cause like him, I lost a mother as well. You and Carla Jaeger are two different people, although you're both similar. A single soul divide into two bodies. You both sacrificed yourselves for the ones you love and without hesitation. You're both caring homebodies who could do own their own and carried yourselves with elegance, poise and confidence. All the traits a mother should have when caring for a family, whether big or small," he paused briefly. Laying down a few more flowers on her grave.

"My ex-fiance, Petra and I are on good terms now. She's recently announced her pregnancy and I hope you'll give her all the guidance and strength she needs to birth and care for her child. She's married now. To a horrible human being... Ms. Jaeger... We've found your killer and it's up to Eren and I to bring you justice. Even though you're not one for petty revenge, this is the least I can do."

Another flower.

"I want the best for Eren. And for the people I'm surrounded by. Mikasa, Erwin, Hanji believe it or not, Petra, her child, even Eren's shit friends except for Armin, he's a good level headed respectable person. I promise you Carla, I'm going to take of Eren an provides him with what he needs everyday and keep him happy. And I promise you mom, that'll I'll be a better man than I am now, I'll continue to make you proud and show Eren I'm his soulmate... Because believe it or not..."

Levi kissed the head of his mother's tombstone and laid down the last flower and stood with a radiating, confident aura that would make anyone respect him.

"I'm going to marry him."


End file.

Shingeki no Kyojin/進撃の巨人, Hurt-Comfort, Romance