Aubrey woke to the feeling of the bed sinking beside her. At first, she registered nothing but the disruption of the movement and she turned her face further into her pillow, trying to fall back asleep.

But then she felt fingers running through her hair and a hand resting on her hip and she realized that Levi was sitting next to her.

She turned onto her back, rubbing at her eyes as she forced them to open. When the world finally came into focus, she saw that she'd been right. Levi was leaning over her, a surprisingly content look on his face.

Aubrey sleepily smiled up at him, her eyes still half-lidded.

"Morning."

She reached her hand up and saw him catch her wrist and press his lips to her palm.

Her smile grew wider and she started to prop herself up but before she could get too far, Levi's hands slid under her arms and he pulled her into his lap.

Her back pressed against his chest and she turned to look at him. She was definitely more awake now that he'd just moved her around like a ragdoll.

Levi ignored her surprised expression and placed a kiss on the back of her neck. He moved down her spine and when he reached a certain point, he felt her shudder and then heard her sigh.

He raised an eyebrow even though she couldn't see. It seemed like he'd found a new spot.

He was just about to go back for more when Aubrey spoke up.

"What time is it?"

It was Levi's turn to sigh. He was intrigued by the possibilities that came along with exploring the new zone he'd found. Oh well. It would just have to wait.

He moved his chin into the curve of her neck and spoke softly into her ear.

"Just past six. I didn't know how long you'd need to get ready."

Aubrey leaned back into him, a feeling of bliss overtaking her. She couldn't believe that this was going to be her life from now on. Levi beside her, the sun shining through the window, the fire keeping the room warm enough to barely need the blankets. It was so… euphoric.

"Here."

Aubrey's bliss faded as she saw what Levi was pushing into her hands. It was her tea.

She groaned.

"Leeevi, I just woke up."

Levi gently nudged her head to the side to expose more of her neck. He worked his lips over the skin as he answered her.

"Exactly. Get it over with. Besides, isn't this better than just my hand on your thigh under some shitty Mess Hall table?"

Aubrey furrowed her brows as she glared down at the drink in her hands. It was the damn tea that was shitty.

But she knew he was right. It would be better to just get it done now and not have to worry about it at breakfast. Plus, having Levi so close wouldn't hurt.

Aubrey sighed again as she lifted the cup to her lips and took the first gulp. Disgusting.

A shudder of revulsion took over her body and she felt Levi tighten his arms around her waist.

She groaned and seriously considered tossing the cup across the room. But she didn't.

Aubrey took gulp after gulp and then, finally, she shoved the cup back into Levi's hand.

He took it from her and set it on the bedside table before he turned her head back and kissed her.

He pulled away quickly, his brows furrowing and his teeth pulling back from his teeth in a look of loathing.

"Is that really what that shit tastes like?"

Aubrey rolled her eyes.

"Yes, it does, in fact, taste like shit. Did you think I was exaggerating?"

Levi shook his head, the taste of dirt still on his tongue.

"No, it's… I don't know how you don't throw up just from the taste."

Aubrey couldn't help but laugh.

"Sometimes I almost do."

Levi sighed and moved his lips back to her neck. It was the least her could do after she'd had to ingest something as vile as that tea.

"I assume it wouldn't work if I drank it."

Aubrey gave a sad smile. She couldn't believe he'd be willing to take the burden off her if he could. Especially after he'd just found out what it tasted like.

"No, it wouldn't. But that's alright. I'll get more used to it after a while."

Levi suddenly didn't care about the lingering taste in his mouth and he turned her head again and found her lips.

Aubrey reached an arm behind her and tangled her fingers in his hair. She knew she'd never be able to express just how grateful she was to have him but, for now, she just hoped that he could feel how much she loved him.

When they finally broke away, Aubrey sank back into his chest and Levi's lips pressed into her hair. They didn't have to move quite yet. It was still early.

Aubrey's eyes caught on the tea cup again and she suddenly had a question.

"How long have you been up?"

He'd made her tea and he already seemed very alert.

Levi hummed as he thought her question over. He'd been awake for almost an hour already. Aubrey had held him through every round of his sobbing and shaking last night and he knew that she was just as exhausted as he was. So, when he was able to work through a bout without waking her, he'd just let her sleep.

But she wouldn't want to hear that. It would only upset her. Levi could already hear her asking 'why didn't you wake me?'. He wasn't in the mood to argue so he decided he'd just tell her what she wanted to hear.

"Not long. Just long enough to make that tea."

Aubrey let out a breath.

"Good."

Her hand found his forearm and she stroked his skin absentmindedly. She scanned the room and saw all of the boxes they'd have to find the time to unpack. They had a lot of work to do. But they should still make some time for something more… enjoyable.

"We should go into town this Sunday."

Levi raised an eyebrow.

"Why?"

Aubrey chuckled.

"Well, for one thing, it would be fun. Plus, I want to get some food for the kitchen. I'm sure Erwin would let us take whatever we need from the kitchens but… all of the ingredients they have are so boring. And lastly, we could use a few new things to decorate, don't you think?"

"Hmm." Levi put his lips on her neck again. "Whatever you want."

Aubrey smiled. She realized that Levi had probably never been to a market on the surface and she hoped that maybe a day out would be a good distraction for him. But her smile faded as she noticed that she couldn't remember an important piece of information.

"What day is it, anyway?"

Levi huffed against her skin.

"Saturday."

Aubrey's eyes widened.

"Really?"

Levi nodded, amused that she seemed to have lost all track of time.

"Oh, well, I guess we're going tomorrow, then."

"Mm."

He agreed easily. It was so effortless to always just give her what she wanted. He had a feeling that might be a problem at some point. But, for now, he'd just go along with it.

Levi kept his mouth on her, nipping lightly at a spot behind her ear.

Aubrey wriggled in his arms and he moved back down her neck as she exhaled lightly. But he only got a few more moments before she started to move out of his lap.

His hand automatically caught her wrist and tried to pull her back but he forced himself to let go. They did have training. Whether he liked it or not.

Aubrey giggled at the frustrated expression on his face and crawled back to place a light kiss on his cheek before finally sliding off the bed.

Her legs were a little achy when she stood but it was nothing she couldn't shake off. Last night hadn't really been all that intense. It was slow, gentle. Nothing that would leave her unable to walk.

Aubrey headed for the bathroom but she didn't really have much to do. Levi had dragged her into the shower last night and held her up as he washed her. It had been one of the most calming experiences of her life. She'd been completely reliant on him and yet… she wouldn't have wanted it any other way.

When they'd gone back to the room, Levi had sat her in a chair and proceeded to scrub the mattress within an inch of its life. She'd had to stop herself from laughing at his intensity. It was entirely unfortunate for the mattress that there hadn't been any sheets.

Levi had found a new set of bedding in the closet and thrown it on quickly. Aubrey had managed to make her way over to the fireplace and start a fire but as soon as she was done, Levi had scooped her up and set her on the bed.

It hadn't taken long for both of them to find each other and fall asleep.

Aubrey smiled as she finally entered the bathroom. Last night was a time she'd never forget. Though, she felt like she'd never forget a second of the time she spent with Levi. Every moment was burned into her mind.

She cleared her mind as she finally found the bag that held all of their essentials. She took it into the bathroom and looked into the mirror as she reached for her toothbrush.

She yelped.

There was a red mark near her collarbone. She pulled down her shirt, trying to get a better look.
Levi came rushing into the doorway, his brows furrowed and his eyes scanning.

"What's wrong?"

He'd obviously heard her bark of surprise.

She turned to him, putting the skin of her neck on full display.

"Someone got a little carried away last night."

Levi's expression of concern melted away to a smirk as he saw the mark he'd left.

Aubrey rolled her eyes and turned back to the mirror, rubbing at the spot as if it would magically go away. The bite he'd given her a few days ago was still visible but it was lower down. This mark would just barely be covered by her shirt. If she wasn't careful, it would be on display for all to see.

She groaned and met Levi's eyes in the mirror.

"Next time, move out of uncoverable zones."

Levi shrugged.

"Not my fault that's where you like it."

Aubrey's eyes widened and she spun around and pushed him out the door.

"Go get dressed or something!"

She heard Levi choke back a laugh and she slammed the door the second he was out.

She groaned when the lock clicked into place. She didn't want to deal with Jacob and Leo's teasing again. If they even got the slightest glimpse of the spot, they'd be on her about it for weeks. Maybe she'd just have Levi beat them up.

She sighed and moved back to the sink, turning on the water. She'd worry about all of that later.

Aubrey washed her face, brushed her teeth, and combed her hair. It didn't take her very long but the motions had already cooled her off. She was still annoyed and slightly embarrassed but there was nothing to be done about it now.

As soon as she was done, she went back into the main room to see Levi halfway dressed. She dragged her eyes away from the muscles of his back. She was still trying to be mad at him.

She went through the boxes until she found the one that held her clothes. She rummaged around a bit but eventually found a clean uniform and slipped it on. She'd picked the highest collared shirt she owned but it wasn't much better than the rest. Her wardrobe didn't have all that much variation.

Levi watched as she pulled her shirt over her head and didn't even try to hide it when she caught him staring. He smirked and Aubrey rolled her eyes at him even as she smiled. Any bit of lingering annoyance melted away instantly.

Soon both of them were dressed and had their straps on but when Aubrey looked around for her shoes she saw that they were already in Levi's hands. She grinned at him. She guessed that him lacing up her boots was going to become a new routine.

Levi moved toward her, backing her into a chair and then gently pushing her into the seat. Aubrey went willingly, the smile still on her face.

Levi lifted her chin and kissed her gently. Aubrey lifted her hands to run her fingers through his hair. She kept them there even as he kneeled and began to work on her laces.

As soon as he finished, Aubrey brought his mouth back to hers. She'd never get enough.

Levi didn't allow himself to linger. He wasn't sure what he'd do if he did.

He pulled back, reaching for Aubrey's hand and twining their fingers. She rose out of her chair and followed him to their sets of 3DMG. Both of them had their gear hooked on in a matter of minutes and then Aubrey grabbed his hand again.

Levi pulled them to the door and in just a few seconds they were out and wandering through the halls.

The two of them walked in silence but Levi brought the back of Aubrey's hand to his lips several times before they finally reached the Mess Hall. Just as they were about to round the corner, Aubrey tugged up her collar and hoped to god it would stay put. If Erwin caught a glimpse of that mark she was sure she would die of embarrassment.

Aubrey's eyes scanned the tables when they entered and she immediately found who she was looking for. Erwin was in his usual spot but there was no Hange with him today. Instead, he was accompanied by a pile of paperwork that he was scratching away at while he ate.

Aubrey sighed at the sight. He overworked himself.

But, before she could go reprimand him, Levi pulled her away to the food tables. Just like yesterday, he set a tray in her hands and watched her as she filled it. She tried to suppress a smile. His concern was endearing and… adorable.

When she finished piling oatmeal onto her plate, she reached for his hand again and dared to place a kiss on his cheek. He grumbled a bit but didn't pull away. Maybe she'd get him to warm up to the idea of a little public affection. Maybe.

Aubrey chuckled at his reaction and then pulled him back toward Erwin. He was already staring at them.

Aubrey anxiously yanked on her collar again as they approached. The damn shirt better stay up.

They reached Erwin in just a few seconds and Aubrey didn't hesitate to slide into the seat next to him. Levi sat beside her and she found herself sandwiched between the two most important people in her life. She smiled.

"Good morning."

Erwin smiled back.

"Good morning. How are you today?"

Aubrey glanced down at his hands.

"I'd be better if you'd put the paperwork away while you eat. Seriously, Erwin. You need a lesson in work-life balance."

Aubrey reached over and pulled the quill from his fingers, setting it out of his reach. She heard him sigh but she didn't really care. He worked too hard and relaxing for a few minutes wouldn't kill him.

Erwin must have felt her decision because he didn't protest.

"You're probably right but I'm not sure I picked the best profession if that's the goal."

Aubrey rolled her eyes.

"Probably not, but you can still take the time to eat. Fifteen minutes won't make that much difference."

Erwin smiled again and finally leaned away from his stack of papers.

"No, I suppose it won't."

Their table went quiet for a moment but it wasn't long before a thought came bursting into Aubrey's mind.

"Oh! I have a couple of things I should tell you."

Erwin raised an eyebrow.

"Yes?"

"Levi and I moved in."

Erwin tried to hide his surprise but Aubrey could still see the way his eyes widened ever so slightly.

"My, that was… fast."

Aubrey wasn't really sure how to answer him without making things awkward so she just moved on.

"And, um, we'll be gone most of tomorrow. We're going into town."

Erwin's eyes widened again, this time a bit more noticeably.

"Oh, well, enjoy yourselves."

Even if he seemed a bit caught off guard, Aubrey could still tell that his words were genuine and she beamed at him.

"Thanks. I'll get us some good tea."

Erwin grinned.

"Speaking of tea, can you come tonight? I've missed your company. And I could use some help with paperwork if you don't mind."

Aubrey opened her mouth to answer but Erwin picked up again.

"Of course, you're welcome to come, too, Levi."

There was an instant wave of tension in the air. Whenever the two of them spoke directly, the atmosphere shifted and Aubrey felt as if lightning could strike at any moment. Levi had made his peace with Erwin but there was still a strain between them. She knew it would take time.

After a few seconds, Levi answered.

"If Aubrey goes, I'll go."

Aubrey exhaled as the suspense ended. She figured that was as good of a response as she could expect.

She turned back to Erwin.

"We'll be there."

Erwin nodded, glad that he'd be able to see her, but he was also intrigued by the idea of sitting down with Levi. He wondered if Levi would even bother to join the conversation or if he'd just sit there and brood at Aubrey's side.

"Good. I look forward to it."

Aubrey took a bite of her food, knowing that if she didn't Levi would yell at her soon. She chewed, expecting that their discussion had come to a natural pause. But Erwin spoke up again.

"Oh, and Aubrey, your name change, it's done. It was finished last night."

Aubrey's hand froze just as she was lifting her spoon to her mouth.

Levi felt her tension immediately and his hand found her thigh as he leaned into her. He watched her face, looking for any sign that she needed more. He was just about to reach for her face when she blinked, shook her head, and set her spoon down.

Levi relaxed a bit, but he didn't move away. She may have returned to the present but her muscles were still coiled and taut.

Aubrey found his hand beneath the table and squeezed. She was alright. A little stressed, but alright.

She turned back to Erwin, drawing in a shaky breath before she spoke.

"Thank you, Erwin."

Erwin nodded. It was obvious to him that the finality of her records change had shaken her but he could also hear the genuine thanks in her tone. She was glad to have it done.

Aubrey took a few more deep breaths and then turned to look back at Levi. She needed to see his eyes.

When she met his gaze, she found what she was looking for. There was a gentleness that she took great comfort in but there was also a burning reassurance. Just that was enough to let her know that she'd made the right choice.

Aubrey turned back to her plate, resolving to never doubt her decision again. It was over. It was done. If her father wanted to show up, she'd just show him how much her time in the military had taught her and beat him to a pulp. He deserved it.

"Well, I'd better get going. I've still got a mountain of these in my office."

Erwin reached for his stack of paperwork and then rose from his seat.

"Uh-uh. Wait." Aubrey picked up his plate and shoved it into his hands. "You'd better finish that."

Erwin smiled and shook his head.

"Yes, ma'am."

Aubrey huffed, a bit surprised by his joking.

"I'll see you both later. Have a good day of training."

"Bye, Erwin."

He shot Aubrey one last glance and then turned on his heel and left.

Aubrey sighed when he was finally out of sight. The tension between him and Levi plus the realization of her name change had been enough to drain her before the day even started.

Levi squeezed her thigh again and she shifted to face him.

The burning had left his eyes but the gentleness remained.

Her lips turned up into a soft smile. He could already tell that she needed him.

Aubrey raised her hand to his cheek and this time he didn't even grumble. Her thumb stroked his skin and she stayed there until going any longer would be unacceptable in public. She let her hand drop but laced their fingers beneath the table.

"We should go."

Levi shook his head.

"Not until you finish your food."

Aubrey rolled her eyes but followed his command and turned back to her plate. She spooned the rest of her oatmeal into her mouth and then let the silverware clatter against the tray.

She looked back at him.

"Done."

Levi squeezed her hand and they stood, seeing that plenty of other soldiers were finishing up at the same time. At least they weren't going to be late today.

They moved to the back of the room and discarded their dishes before finally heading for the field. They didn't get very far.

"Aubrey!"

Aubrey heard a familiar voice call her name and she turned to see Hange running toward her.

She turned to Levi, let go of his hand, and then nudged him lightly toward the door.

"Go on ahead. I'll catch up with you."

His brows furrowed instantly, a slightly annoyed look on his face.

"Why?"

Aubrey nudged him again, a little harder this time.

"Because I don't want to risk you calling her four eyes again. Now, go."

Levi hesitated and gave her a hard glare.

"Go."

She practically had to push him to get his feet to move but, finally, with an irritated grunt, he headed for the door.

Aubrey rolled her eyes as she watched him stomp away. He was so overly grumpy sometimes.

Aubrey jumped a bit when she felt a set of hands clamp around her shoulder. Her eyes moved forward to see a slightly breathless Hange staring at her with crazed eyes.

Aubrey raised a confused eyebrow.

"Um… hi?"

Hange bypassed all greetings and went right into their conversation.

"I have to ask you something."

Aubrey nodded as her eyebrows raised. She was a little overwhelmed by Hange's energetic attitude. Though, she couldn't say she was surprised. There had only ever been a few times when Aubrey had seen her not energetic.

"Okay, go."

Hange's eyes glinted but her expression turned serious. Aubrey took a breath. Whatever she was about to say was going to be important.

"Today is going to be hand-to-hand combat training. Now, I know we said we couldn't adapt your fighting style for use in the regiment but…"

Aubrey could tell where this was going. Even as her friend trailed off, she knew exactly what her next words would have been.

"You still want to see it."

Hange nodded vigorously, her eyes wide as she practically begged.

Aubrey thought it over for just a second before she smiled.

"Okay."

Hange froze. Could it really be that easy?

"Really?"

Aubrey giggled. She hadn't seen her friend this excited in far too long. Just seeing the way she was nearly jumping up and down would have been enough reason to show her. But she had another aim, too.

"Yes, really. I've been planning to teach Levi, anyway. You can watch us spar."

A hysterical grin spread across Hange's features and Aubrey found herself mirroring the expression. She was excited that she could do something to make her friend so… thrilled.

"Okay, let's go!"

Hange grabbed her wrist and Aubrey jerked to the side as she was hauled away. But their movement stopped after just a few seconds.

"Oh, wait, I have another question!"

Aubrey took a second to comprehend what she was saying. Hange's mind was moving a thousand times faster than hers.

"Sure."

"What was that tea for yesterday?"

Aubrey's face paled and her body froze. She panicked for a moment but quickly pulled herself together. She couldn't allow Hange to realize her answer was a lie.

"It, um, helps me with stress. Levi was just being nice and making it for me while we talked."

Thankfully, Hange seemed to accept her answer even though Aubrey was fairly sure she'd been less than convincing. Maybe Hange was just too distracted by the idea of seeing her spar.

"Oh, alright. Well if that's all-"

Without any warning, Hange started dragging her away again. Aubrey stumbled along behind her, squinting when they flew out the door and the sun hit her eyes.

She tried to look for Levi but found that she didn't have to look very far. A set of hands found her waist as she ran past and she came to a harsh stop as he held her back.

Hange turned around when she felt Aubrey's wrist slip out of her grasp only to grin even wider when she saw Levi. She had her two favorite subjects right in front of her… and they were going to spar.

"Oi, what's up with the running?"

Aubrey leaned back into him as she steadied herself. She was being yanked around too much.

When she finally found her balance again, she shot a glance at Hange. Her friend was so enthusiastic that the only thing she could do was smile. She turned to Levi, smirking.

"Today's hand-to-hand combat. And we're going to fight."

A/N: So this chapter was definitely a little more transitiony/fluffy but that's how it's gonna be for a while. THESE TWO ARE JUST GONNA HAVE SOME PEACE. I love story but we're gonna roll with a few more chapters of fluff because THEY DESERVE HAPPINESS. WE'RE GONNA UNPACK, WE'RE GONNA GO INTO TOWN, WE'RE GONNA BE HAPPY. Thank you.

Also, I have actually started writing book 2 already…(/・_・/) That's probably a big mistake because I'll get too excited about writing that book and then neglect finishing this one. Or maybe I'll just end up having a few chapters of book 2 to upload right away when it starts. Idk, whatever keeps me writing, I guess lol. I've yet to decide on a title for book 2 yet, but I'll let y'all know when I come to a decision. If you have any suggestions, leave them in the comments. I know y'all don't really know what it's about yet but, honestly, it'll probably just end up being some cheesy and vague title anyway. So, shoot your shot if you have an idea lol.

Okay, anyway, THANKS FOR THE COMMENTSSSSSS :))) I still love every one of them. Sooooooo, I am once again asking you to leave more. They give me instant motivation and I'm gonna NEED it. So THANK YOU to every single person that leaves one. I THRIVE ON THE WORDS YOU TYPE.