I'm back with an update
Hanji thinks over his own stresses of becoming a father, while Levi reminisces and thinks about her mother. Jean and Mikasa come to terms with their new role and bond.
Jeankasa fluff, LeviHan fluff
Hanji sat at his desk as he went over paperwork, though for once it had nothing to do with the titans. No, this was about his lover and the preparations of taking care of their child as they entered the world. Though Levi was still 5 months and had a long way to go, there was a lot they needed to have done for when the day came. I mean they were going to be parents after all.
This was not something to be taken lightly, parenthood was a full time job and the child would rely on them for food and protection. Until they were strong enough to stand on their own feet and get by without their help. Bringing an innocent and vulnerable life into this ugly world ruled by cannibalistic giants, corrupt royals and aristocrats. It would be their job to help this baby through this dark and confusing life.
Both he and Levi had experienced an anything but pleasant life growing up, making them grateful for what they had now compared to their past lives. He had spent his life experimenting on Titans and studying them in hopes of learning how to defeat them and understanding where they came from. Though they were no closer to defeating the titans despite all their efforts, but it was not in vain.
Due to her life in the underground poverty, Levi had issues with authority and was very strict about whom she gave her trust to and fully opened up to. Given her past experiences with betrayal and how far she had gone to survive. It had been a long time before he and Levi developed the friendship and later relationship that they had now. She was loyal to him and Erwin, but still defiant towards the king and the military police, still showing her punk side. But it was because of this that allowed them to grow so close, they accepted one another's faults and had a similar sense of humour.
Back then he never could have seen them creating a family or having kids, I mean this was a big step after all. But they would do the best they could, being parents was a learning experience which would soon come naturally to them. Mistakes would be made, but they would learn from them and eventually get into a habit. Though she was unaware of it herself, Levi was slowly showing signs of being a mother. The way she would protectively place her hand on her stomach, occasionally stroke it and how she was always gazing into the distance and thinking of the future. She would do what was best for her child, no matter the circumstances. She was just that kind of woman and he respected that, she did what needed to be done but still kept her empathy and self awareness. Thinking about how her actions would affect her loved ones.
They would not be giving birth in their bed as Levi would only complain about the filth and body fluids getting on the bed. So, they had booked a ward she could use privately, that would be guarded by trusted soldiers. None of the ones that hated Levi. Though Levi hated them he was considering the military police. They would need a hot tub to wash the baby in to clean it off, as well as cleaning up Levi. Pain killers, towels, clean clothes for baby and Levi, a doctor would need to be present and a skilled surgeon just in case. Making sure all bases were covered so nothing went wrong. This was his first baby and he wanted to do things right.
Erwin agreed it would be private and nobody could enter, this would be a stressful time after all. Levi's temper and emotions would be worse than usual, and she would undoubtedly snap at anyone. So, it would be only himself, Hanji, Mike and the doctor present. Hanji to hold her hand and keep her rational, Mike to keep guard to make sure nobody interrupted and he of course would make sure things went smoothly. This had to be done professionally and as stress free as possible.
However, Erwin was not completely heartless and knew about those who looked up to and carried strong bonds with Levi. Of course, the younger trainees would be allowed to visit when it was all over, but while she was in birth they would be forced to remain outside. For the sake of Levi and theirs; so, nobody got hurt or stressed out. Childbirth was a beautiful thing, but it was also an incredibly stressful situation too. The younger soldiers did not need to be traumatized by a screaming Levi covered in body fluids and blood.
But for all his preparation he knew there was one thing he could not take away from all this. The pain that Levi would endure during childbirth, which was what would make it more difficult. Though they were advancing in medicine, they were not yet far enough to remove all pain. After this Levi would be sore for a long time, remembering what it was like to birth their baby. He doubted she would want to do this again any time soon, but that was understandable. Everyone remembered their first time, no matter the situation.
He chuckled to himself, though he wasn't the one who would be pushing another life out of him. He was scared too, his whole life he had spent focusing on science and his discoveries, putting them towards their missions and understanding their enemy. But now he was facing an unknown trial and that scared him shitless. Fatherhood. Yes, he was supportive of Levi because he had read through every change and adaption to pregnancy. But even reading about it didn't make it any less strange when experiencing it in real life for yourself. Fiction and real life were two completely different matters after all.
But how could he show such a face towards Levi, it would only freak her out and worry that he was backing out. The last thing she needed was more stress, that could cause harm to herself or her baby. He undoubtedly wanted to be a father, to have a baby with the woman he loved. But that didn't mean he couldn't worry about being a crappy father or how their child may turn out. Anxiety was expected after all.
He and Levi had created a life together, a new Ackerman would be born into the world. One born of his genius level intellect and one of her inhuman skills and abilities. Their child may grow up to be the hope of the human race and defeating the titans. But he knew that in the wrong hands, people may persuade their child to be used as a weapon or worse. People didn't like Levi as it was, but many respected her. People didn't like him because he used the titans as science subjects instead of killing many of them. People may assume the worst of them or may even see them as unfit to be parents on account of being soldiers. Due to now being a mother, Levi would be inactive for a while until she was fit to fight again. Which would be a large blow when it came to battle.
People would become desperate and pressure them with this situation, saying they planned the pregnancy or calling them cowards. Saying how she used motherhood to get out of battle and her responsibilities; when that was not the case at all. That the survey core were avoiding the seriousness of the titans and using funding from the civilians the same way the Military police did. God, when you took a step back you really saw the mess in this. But he had taken an oath of responsibility to Levi. They had chosen to keep it and even Erwin had wanted them to become parents and he was rarely wrong. But he was still scared, of the unknown and what may happen.
Suddenly, there was a knock at the door snapping him out of his daze. Realizing how lost in his own thoughts he had been, spacing out instead of focusing on his work like usual. Sighing heavily under his breath, things were piling up so much it was hard to wear a smile half the time now. His worries starting to visibly show compared to how he used to act confident.
Levi opened the door slowly, wearing her usual white dress but now with a red cardigan over her shoulders. She looked worried and tired, which only made him feel worse. Stressing her out would not be good for the baby, she needed to take care of herself. He needed to take care of her. "Working hard I see, nowadays you seem to be taking on both our duties" she joked though her tone hinted seriousness. She still did paperwork but on account of the strain slowly growing on her back, it was becoming harder to do. Having to work from bed instead to keep herself off her feet.
Hanji chuckled, but yes, she was right. Levi was slowly running out of things she could do due to her pregnant belly. Erwin was slowly but surely becoming sterner with her and making adaptions to her pregnancy stages. But in his own way he was showing he cared, trying to remind Levi that she was a person as well as a soldier. "I just want everything to be ready for us. God knows childbirth is going to be stressful enough for you".
Levi softened, she appreciated how much care and thought he was putting into this. But at the same time, he was neglecting himself. Right now, he was the strongest asset to the core, on account of her being pregnant. She was no longer able to be of help like she used to. However, she was not completely useless and was no fragile little bunny. She could take care of herself and her lover just fine. Fair enough they were an unorthodox couple, but then no parents were perfect especially first-time ones. She then grabbed his cravat and pulled him to his feet, she may have been pregnant, but her strength remained. "C'mon shitty glasses, I have a surprise for you" she teased. It was not dangerous and would allow them to have some fun. They needed a little fun after all.
"Erwin had a small room made next to ours for the baby. Its nothing special but we can at least make it look… homely?" she replied. Their old room had been adapted from the fancy one it had been. Giving it a smaller attached room for the child. It was still plain, with wooden paneling to keep in warmth and allowing them to decorate and the basics of any baby room. Changing table, bath, crib, curtains, rocking chair, basket etc. All the things a baby would need while living in its first room as it grew up.
She had to pull a few strings to make sure her child got everything it needed, food, warmth, love and basic needs. Relieved that she could use her position to get benefits that may make motherhood easier and less stressful. But the pay off would be worth it, having a nice spacious room to live in and she would be nearby her child so she could hear them cry from the other room.
Hanji was amazed at how much effort she had put in already, this room would be where their baby would grow and live. Where Levi would feed them, put them to sleep, sing to them, tell them stories and protect them. This is where their child's life would begin, its first memory as a human being. The wood would stop the cold from getting in, but cleaning it was another matter. But they could worry about that when the time came.
"The gifts the trainees gave us are in a small toy box. Of course, the sword and symbol can be given to them when they are older. But the scarf can be used to keep them warm" she replied gently. They would all one day be of use to their baby at different stages in their life. Their first toy, their first clothes, a gift of their family inheritance, all things that would mean a lot to them as they grew up.
Hanji walked forward thinking about the design the room would have. It needed to be homely, gender neutral and welcoming. Something that would look nice until the child was old enough to decorate their own room. So many ideas filling his mind, imagining what it would look like when the room was finally completed. A fond smile spreading across his face, a strong sense of adoration for his wife and unborn child filling his chest.
"We could make them a homemade lullaby, they'll need a blanket to sleep with, a pillow, a high chair, you know basic baby needs. But we can deal with that nearer the time. What matters now is how it should look" Levi explained. Mikasa and Jean seemed to be the most creative so far, so putting them in charge of making a lullaby for the baby's room would not be a bad idea. They could both use their creative input and neither one would let anyone damage it. They could get a basic blanket from one of the markets, pillows could be made but they would need a feather one. But they could get something like that via Erwin, as a comfier pillow would be better to keep he baby warm.
Hanji gazed at the room, for the time being they did not know the gender of their child. But they would be happy with either, as long as it was born healthy. Levi wasn't exactly a girly girl type and he could be rather dorky himself. So, neither of them fit gender stereotypes. They would be smarter and stronger than most kids their age, on account of his IQ and Levi's own abilities. They'd hopefully be a looker, well if they took more after Levi they would. Depending on the personality they dominantly inherited, they would either be a dork or an ice queen. "What about the colour? Painting wood is becoming a trend you know" he joked. Yellow was a gender-neutral colour, blue would match the sky and cream would be nice. One that was seen as non-stereotypical for a baby. So, they wouldn't have to change it when the baby was born.
Levi's eyes widened, a thoughtful expression on her face. She had never thought about that before, but it did seem like a good idea. "Pale yellow or cream, or maybe even a light green colour" she replied thoughtfully. She wanted the baby to have a nice room, one that seemed welcoming. She wanted their baby to have everything she could manage, everything she never had growing up. For their child to be loved, safe, warm and comfortable. To know it would never have to feel scared or lonely. To never live in the dark.
Hanji was surprised by her response, not expecting her to take it literally. But she seemed very invested in the idea, so he may go along with it. It wasn't often Levi dabbled in her feminine side, given she had a fiery nature at heart. She had become more tomboyish and masculine because of the way her uncle raised her and the life she lived in the underground."I can talk to Erwin, though we will be doing it together". There was no way Erwin had time to decorate a baby's room being the Commander of the survey core.
Levi was now banned from going into battle, so she had plenty of free time to decorate and he was fed up of paperwork himself. It would be a nice break for them and allowing them to bond. Another step to help them get ready for becoming parents. "It's best I do as much as I can before I'm bedridden anyway" she joked. The baby was growing slowly every day and her stomach was starting to swell. So, doing as much physical movement as she could before it became to much for her was crucial.
Hanji did feel bad for her, the bigger her belly got the more constricted her movements and freedom became. Making her miss the small things she had taken for granted before now. "Better make up for lost time then" he teased. No matter how big she got, Levi was still beautiful to him. In fact, she had exuded sex appeal and health ever since she became pregnant. She was glowing, only making his heart swell with love. She shoved him playfully but laughed. Enjoying being able to joke about like always.
Levi sat by the window stroking her pregnant belly affectionately. She had never thought she would be a good mother, but her opinion was slowly starting to change. A sense of strong maternal protection for her child starting to kick in. She had also started to respect and reflect on her personal life more deeply because of it. How her own mother had lived as a single pregnant mother in the underground and raised her in such circumstances on her own. The things she had sacrificed for Levi and how far she had gone to make sure they were both comfortable and well fed.
Now she was following her mothers' footsteps, albeit in much better circumstances but still a surprise pregnancy. But at least her child would know her father and be raised in a world that was better than the one she lived in. She was not the best person to deal with, she had a lot of beef with many people. But she was not a bad person, she was simply the way she was from the life she had lived. She was born into poverty, raised in an underground slum with no sunshine. Her uncle abandoned her to raise herself, she lost her own mother as a child. Her childhood friends were murdered, and she was raised to work as a thug/thief to survive. In that sort of world. If you didn't tough up, you died. You had to be strong to survive, doing whatever you could to get food and shelter.
But she would not let her child live the same way. Her child would have a nice room to sleep in with warm blankets and a soft bed. They would be well fed, protected and have a roof over their head. She would have both her parents and never alone. She would have Mikasa and Jean as god parents, the rest of her allies and friends would be their family. She would be able to go out in the sun whenever she wanted, she could play outside every day. She would never have to worry about fighting to stay alive. She would have a better life, the one she had longed for growing up.
"I won't let anything happen to you" she whispered under her breath. She may not have planned on becoming a mother, but she would do a damn good job at trying to be one. No parent was perfect, but as long as your child didn't hate you and ended up as a decent human being. You'd done your job. If someone so much as tried to lay a hand on her child or meant them any ill will at all. She and Hanji would do everything and anything in their ability to make sure that person paid. Nobody would hurt her child and live to tell the tale, or in the most merciful situation come out un-traumatized.
Hanji opened the door quietly, holding a tray of food. Neither of them having had any lunch yet. His heart skipping a beat as he watched Levi sit quietly by the window stroking her pregnant belly. An air of loveliness about her that made his heart ache with love. She had certainly started to change in terms of body too, her hair was starting to get longer. But it looked good on her, her bangs were longer and reached her eyes now. Her undercut was growing out and giving her a short above shoulder bob. Her skin was smoother and healthier, her complexion was great too.
But to keep that healthy glow, she had to keep taking care of herself. During this time she better expect to keep getting spoiled and babied, because right now she had to rely on him. "I brought us some lunch" he replied fondly. Nothing special, some beef stew and dumplings, water and some toasted bread with bramble jam and butter on top. Hopefully she could stomach this much. A few of his other cooking attempts, she had been sick or been put off by the scent alone.
Levi turned quietly, and the scent of food wafted up her nose. Thankfully the scent did not make her stomach turn so she could hopefully consume it. Nowadays she had a pickier diet than she usually would, but it was for the sake of their baby. Their child knowing exactly what it wanted, knowing what it needed to stay healthy and give them both nutrients. Or at the very least what would keep them both in a good mood.
Levi sighed as she spooned the stew into her mouth, not too rich or too bland. Perfectly balanced and tasty, the dumplings perfectly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Heavenly with every taste. Luckily Hanji had become good at noticing what foods she had become more sensitive too since becoming pregnant. Knowing what foods to avoid and what foods to keep giving her. As to keep Levi happy and make sure she wasn't sick. She was so lucky to have a husband who was a science geek and could tell you word for word about human anatomy. It helped to have someone who could understand pregnancy and not get too stressed out about it.
Hanji hummed, glad to see her be able to eat a decent meal. He had been a little concerned that she may get full too soon or get sick. This had been a lucky shot as he had been worried she wouldn't be able to eat it. "I take it baby approves of cooking" he replied in relief. Seeing Levi being able to eat a full meal brought him a lot of relief. Her appetite had been all over the place since she had become pregnant.
"We both do" she replied contently. She needed her strength and the baby needed nutrients from the food she ate to stay strong and grow. Though she had to admit it was stressful not being able to eat the thing she loved. But it would pay off once the baby was born, every action she did now would ensure the health and safety of her baby. It relied on her while growing inside of her body, so she had to do everything in her power to keep it healthy.
Now that they were alone for a while, with no work getting in the way. Hanji could finally speak his mind on a few matters that had been bothering him for a while. However, it was best to go for the easiest subject first. "I've been meaning to ask you something, its pretty important. I mean, the gender is going to be a surprise but…. Have you thought of names at all? I mean, all babies need one" he asked curiously. Every name he thought of somehow seemed wrong, unfitting.
Levi hummed, tilting her head. Her mothers name had been unusual and beautiful. Her uncle had a common name. And hers meant "joined" and was of Hebrew origin, and her surname meaning "Ploughing". But she wanted her babies name to stand out, to be different. "I was thinking Esme for a boy and Noelle for a girl" she said thoughtfully. Esme meant esteemed or loved, Noelle meant day of birth. Their child would be loved regardless of gender and their birth would be a day they would always remember.
Hanji was impressed, both French names and beautiful. Thinking of a son named Esme, he would be admired by all and indeed loved by them both and many of Levi's adoring followers. And since boys usually ended up looking like their mothers, he would be a looker indeed. Noelle would indeed be remembered for the new life they had helped create. She would be smart like her mother and father, her beauty like her mothers. She would be a strong warrior and maybe just as sharp tongued as she was.
"I approve, Noelle or Esme Ackerman. The child of humanities strongest and the smartest scientist of our age". Levi had always approved of his research and intellect. And he had always admired her natural abilities, ever since the day they met. No matter if it was a boy or a girl, it would be a child full of promise and potential, their future would be bright and full of hope. Better than the one they were living in now.
Levi smiled, she could feel the baby moving inside of her. It felt good to know the baby could feel her happiness, hearing its name, understanding its identity. Knowing it was loved, that they were eager to meet them too. As scared as she was, their child would have good parents. Stern, hardworking but loving. Parents that would never let anything bad happen to them, that would teach them to be fearless and yet cautious.
Mikasa would undoubtedly protect the baby with her life. She had lost her own parents and knew what it was like to be an orphan. She would treasure their baby and make sure it never came to any harm, much like Levi. Though she could also imagine Mikasa being awkward and shy, being so young and meeting such a small life up close. But she seemed like a natural mother, given how well she had cared for and protected her friends all these years.
Jean would undoubtedly be awkward and clumsy, but loving and protective. He would make sure the child was never scared or rough handled. Making sure it got plenty of rest and never too overwhelmed. A rational but loving guardian. She would never let the child come to harm and would make sure they were aware of the dangers of the world around them, yet being able to appreciate the beauty in the world too.
"I think we should tell Mikasa and Jean about their roles. I'm sure they'll be very happy indeed" she chuckled. She was more eager to see their reactions when told about such important roles. Being god parents was no light manner, it was very serious. But she had made up her mind, there was nobody else she could consider to be protectors of their baby. The two people who would look after it in their place.
Hanji scoffed, but yes, he did agree. However, wasn't it a bit soon, she was only 5 months after all. There was still a lot to prepare for until their baby was ready to come into the world. He planned on sticking around for a long time, their child would know their father and would be a big part of their life. "Isn't it a bit soon? They should know on the day" he argued. There was plenty of time to tell them, besides the surprise on the day of her giving birth would be even more of an impact.
Levi shook her head, he knew her friends would agree Mikasa to be the best choice. She was humanities strongest of the second generation. She may have appeared cold, overprotective and serious but she was more than that. She was a deeply emotional and conflicted girl just like herself. She would never let their baby suffer the way she had. Jean may have been an ass, but he was a good leader, even Erwin approved of him. His place was not in the military police, but he would soon see that, he belonged in the core. His friends all believed in his skills and never let him see the worst in himself. Always boosting him up. He saw all life as equal and hated not being able to preserve lives much like herself.
"No, they can handle it. I don't see anyone as fitting as those two. Mikasa is practically family and though he is unaware of it, parenthood will come easily to Jean. Those two have potential, they just don't know it yet" she replied. Those two would be great godparents, they would be a great team and under their care the child would turn out good. Though he doubted it, Jean was a lot more responsible than Yeager.
Hanji couldn't argue, Mikasa had been the one to care for both Armin and Eren like they were her brothers from a young age. She was a naturally maternal figure and would fight to protect her family at all costs. Jean's father was not around but his mother meant the world to him as much as he denied it. He would never let the baby be bullied the way he did and make sure it never ended up spoiled. "Very well, I'll go get them after lunch, so you may explain. I just hope we've made a good decision" he said hesitantly. They were only 15, still kids themselves. They still had so much to learn for all of their talents. He was concerned about her choices to tell them now.
Jean and Mikasa walked down the hall silently towards Levi's chambers. They had been told by Hanji that she had something important to tell them. Given Levi's current situation, it was best not to get on her bad side given how volatile she could be. However, they had a few ideas of what may be happening. Jean just hoped they weren't in trouble at all as Levi did not appreciate slip ups or failures. Mikasa had a feeling they would be asked to take her place given she was unable to fight in her situation.
Both were somewhat nervous and anxious, but Mikasa as always was mentally prepared. Willing to defend Jean should either be attacked in any way for their mistakes or issues. But so far as she knew she could not think of any. Jean was preparing himself to be scolded for messing up somehow and would be cursing himself for his failures for the rest of the day. Eventually they reached Levi's quarters and stood outside hesitantly. Mentally preparing themselves for a very angry Levi. The unknown of what they were about to face leaving them on edge.
Jean reached out and knocked on the door, trying to calm his breathing and not do anything stupid. God, he felt sick to his stomach, all he had ever wanted was to become a skilled soldier and reach a position that would put his mother in safety from any danger. Clenching his hands, aware of how sweaty and clammy they were. God he really hoped he didn't do anything or say anything to mess up somehow.
"Come in" Levi's voice called from the inside of the door. She sounded serious as per normal, but there was also a matter of calmness from it too. Which was not something they expected to hear from her. They had expected more of a stern attitude, short temper and an intimidating aura. Though a serious matter, it felt more relaxed than a usual confrontation with Levi.
Jean opened the door quietly, the two of them welcomed by Levi sitting on a chair beside the window. Hanji standing against the wall quietly, his hands folded across his chest like Levi usually would. Watching over the mother of his baby silently, making sure no confrontations happened. Jean and Mikasa saluted as a form of respect towards their captain. Not wanting to get into any potential trouble.
Levi sighed heavily, though she expected them to shit themselves upon wondering why they had been summoned. They could at least relax as they were in no form of danger, but then again, she had a reputation of being scary amongst the younger scouts. "You can relax you know, you're in no danger of being reprimanded. Though this is still a serious matter" she explained. Though it was hard to believe she was not as heartless as people made her out to be.
She understood their fear and apprehension, being called to her chambers abruptly with no warning or idea of why. But if she did hold some sense of anger towards them they would know about it. She was the type of woman who let people know of their mistakes immediately, biting the bullet for better words. The two visibly relaxed and softened but were understandably confused by this situation. If they were not in trouble, then why would their superior ask to meet them in her personal quarters? Unless it was a more private matter.
"As you know, me and Hanji are expecting our first child. Though we did not plan on becoming parents, we have accepted our roles. However, should something happen to either of us someone else would be needed to help care of our child". They better be ready for the bombshell they were about to receive. She then peered at Hanji quietly, he was holding his breath and looked worried. But he had accepted and agreed with her choice. Every parent needed godparents to raise their child in the matter of one or both parents dying or being unfit to look after the child.
She then took a deep breath, aware of the serious statement she was about to make. She trusted her gut and knew this was a right decision. They would be the best choice to protect their child should anything happen to them. "Mikasa, Jean. Me and Hanji have come to the mutual agreement that you both would be fine choices as Godparents". There was a long silence in the room as the realization of the situation began to hit them. The serious responsibility that had been placed upon their young shoulders. What they would be expected to do in the future. What Levi was asking of them.
A look of pure shock came across Jean's face and he looked like he was going to pass out. His face blank and his mouth dropping open, slowly trying to process what she was asking of him. His breathing became heavier and his eyes widened, trying to focus but failing miserably. You could nearly hear the cogs in his mind ticking and clanking, trying to figure out what was happening.
Mikasa's face had gone paler and her eyes were wide as saucers. Her black eyes slowly shining brightly, but a look of shock also on her face. Given she had pretty much raised Armin and Eren, this was going to be a lot for her to handle given this was going to be a baby vs people her own age. She looked like a ghost and even Hanji was worried she would pass out, as Mikasa was usually a more strong willed person.
But she did not change her opinion and decision about these two. They would need time to get used to it, but she knew they would be the best choice for the role. Their child would be in good hands and would be raised well and kept safe. "M… MA'AM ARE YOU SERIOUS?!" Jean yelled abruptly his tone panicked. This was an honour but was she really making a good choice? Surely commander Erwin would be a better choice than them.
Levi nodded, her decision had been made "I understand your conflict Kirstein. But you both hold more promise than you realize. You have already shown your promise as a future leader and act as a big brother to many of your teammates. You put value on the lives of your fellow comrades and you wear your heart on your sleeve. I don't doubt you would be a good godfather to our child" she replied. Jean would always keep an eye on the child and make sure they were always safe. He would stop them from making stupid decisions and think things through rationally. He would be a loving and affectionate father but keep them in line and make sure they weren't spoilt.
Jean blushed, touched and stunned that she put such a high value on him. God how would he even be able to tell his mother that he was the godfather of the child of Captain Levi Ackerman? This was a big deal, this was a very important and serious situation. He would not let her down and would make sure that Levi's baby would be well cared for and loved. Though he was nervous as hell about this role he had been given.
Mikasa bowed, suddenly bending forwards surprising everyone. Her dark hair falling in front of her face like a dark curtain. Her cheeks obviously red underneath her hair, more nervous than she was letting on. "A… Arigato Captain Levi. I will not let you down, I promise to protect your child and be the best god parent I can be" she stammered awkwardly. She could feel herself shaking but she tried to control it as to not make a scene or worry them.
A small smile spread across Levi and Hanji's face, yes Mikasa had been a good choice. Though it was rather cute to see her acting all flustered compared to her more serious manner she usually showed in front of others. "Mikasa, you are obviously a perceptive and deeply emotional young woman. You love your friends dearly and have their best interest at heart. I do not doubt this baby would be well cared for under you" Levi replied.
Mikasa's cheeks darkened and she straightened up, covering her face with her scarf shyly. Bringing her a sense of comfort and courage she never knew she needed. Unable to look Levi in the eye due to how flustered and awkward she felt all about this. This was a big responsibility, caring and raising another life. Motherhood was never something she considered, all that had mattered up until now was protecting her family.
"I will ask you not to spread this about too much. We do not want any conflict and arguments getting about. Though you may talk about this between the both of you. This will also mean you will be present during the birth" Hanji explained. The two teens nodded in agreement. The baby was not yet born and there were many things that still needed to be dealt with. Changes and adaptions yet to be made for the baby's birth. They didn't need more stress on top of what they were already dealing with.
Hanji then excused the two of them, giving them time to think about their new roles and responsibility. But keeping it under wraps was crucial as they didn't need rumours spreading around. Though he was a little more relieved at their choice, he was still wondering how Erwin would feel about all of this. Knowing they had placed two teens in charge of co-raising/raising their baby in the future.
Jean and Mikasa sat quietly by the window on a bench, their shock slowly hitting them. Feeling a very heavy invisible weight resting on their shoulders like a crushing wall. I mean this was big news after all, like being smacked in the face without being able to prepare yourself or anticipate it. They had just been told that they were going to raise the child of humanities strongest together.
Mikasa for the first time in her life was silent from shock, rather than her usual calm and collected self. She could feel herself shaking a little, unable to think clearly as she thought about her new and upcoming responsibility as a parent to Levi's child. Her body shaking like a leaf and her hands clenched tightly into balls, biting her lip trying to relax herself. Though she was failing miserably.
Jean had his hands gripped on his knees, his heart racing in his chest. Utterly speechless at the fact that his captain had named him the godfather of her child. He had no idea of how to act or what to even say at a time like this. He couldn't joke about it, this was no dream and he was wide awake. He couldn't seem to find an appropriate way to react to this, he had nobody else to confide in.
They couldn't tell anyone, not their friends or family, at least not yet anyway. They still needed to get used to it for themselves first, settling into the future that would be waiting for them. Being told they would have to raise their captains' baby should anything happen to her at all. This wasn't something to be taken lightly. Levi was a very important and respected figure, now she had given them a responsibility they could not neglect.
Jean laughed lightly under his breath, it was the only thing he could think of doing. It brought him relief and felt oddly calming. It was better than throwing up from shock or something like that. He probably looked crazy or strange, like a madman even. But he couldn't think of anything else to do, laughing just felt so right and comfortable. He was stunned that he wasn't crying too, his insecurities gnawing away at him.
Mikasa was taken aback by him laughing and turned to look at him in surprise. Wondering what was so funny, wasn't this more of a situation to cry or freak out a little. Yes, she was usually a rational person, but now she didn't know what to feel. She had never been in a situation like this before, danger and war she could face. She knew how ugly the world was. But raising a baby, caring for a child, it was a more innocent part of life she had never faced before.
Purity, innocence, happiness; they were not things she was used to having in her life. All of those things had been taken from her the day she lost her family. Cruelly pulled from the peaceful and dreamlike life she had once known so very long ago. But maybe this child would be a hopeful reminder that life was not always as bad as they perceived it to be. That life could still be beautiful.
"Sorry, I just…. fuck. I don't know Mikasa…. This…. It's a big deal" he replied shakily. He didn't know anything about raising kids, he was still one himself. He had a long way to go and had a lot of growing up to do. He was aware of his own faults, he just couldn't admit that openly yet. Now he had been told he would be in charge of raising and protecting Levi and Hanji's baby should anything happen to either or both of them. How could anyone act calm in a situation like this. I mean he was happy, but still shaken.
Mikasa softened, then reached out quietly to take his hand in her own and squeeze it. She knew what he meant, there were no words to describe this feeling. Though they would slowly come to accept these roles in time. Levi never bad a bad decision, she followed her gut instinct. She chose them for a reason and obviously trusted them. Though that didn't stop them from being conflicted upon coming to terms with this.
There was a reason she had chosen them, they just didn't understand that yet but hopefully in time they would. They could learn this, get through this together. They could talk about it together and get off their conflicts from their chest. Discussing in what way they would support this baby and be of help to Levi and Hanji as godparents. They were relying on them after all.
Jean blushed as she took his hand. Though they were on good terms and worked well together as teammates, it was not often she showed such gestures towards him. Hell, this was the first form of physical affection she had ever shown him. Her hands were so soft, but they were cold to the touch like ice showing the feeling of fear they both shared. "I know what you mean…. The feeling, its scary right?" she asked quietly. A slight sickening feeling in your stomach, your heart racing in your chest and your head a mess. Breathing was the crucial key to not freaking out.
Jean nodded quietly, swallowing nervously. On top of his anxiety and confusion at being a godparent, the fact that the girl he liked was holding his hand was only adding to it. This was a lot for him to process all at once. But somehow, having Mikasa by his side and knowing she felt the same way was comforting. Making him feel less alone, having someone he could rely on. "That's… that's the first time I've ever seen you so flustered" he chuckled under his breath. She was always such a calm, rational and level-headed person that it had been so out of character to see her nervous, shy and blushing.
Mikasa shifted, gripping his hand a little tighter. She was so glad only he had seen her like that, because she knew Jean would never bring it up again. It would remain their personal secret, he wouldn't tease her like Eren would. She only hoped that it hadn't meant leaving a bad impression on Levi or Hanji. That despite her awkwardness she was still seen fit to be a godmother. "We… should get back soon. Its going to be lunchtime" she replied shakily. After this she would need a good meal to calm her nerves. But she couldn't seem to make her body work, sitting down seemed to be the best thing to do right now.
Jean nodded, the others would worry if they didn't come back in time. Thinking they were in trouble or something. But right now, he needed to clear his head, he couldn't be alone right now. As selfish as it was, having her near made it better. Being able to vent his feelings to her in secret, confiding in her like he used to Marco. "I… just a bit longer… my head. I… I'm still spinning a bit" he admitted. If he got up he had a feeling he could pass out. Sitting down seemed to be helping him keep calm, the last thing he wanted was to worry his friends.
Mikasa nodded, knowing what he meant. If she showed up visibly shaken, then Eren and Armin would only worry then ask a barrage of questions which would only leave her freaking out more. That was something she did not need. "Just a bit longer" she agreed in unison. The two sat beside the window quietly, holding each other's hands for comfort. This was a big deal, to them it felt life changing. A secret they couldn't share yet but would inevitably have to eventually. But for now, they just wanted to sit in silence, thinking over these thoughts together.
