Hey readers. I'm back with more of HSF for you guys. Thanks so much to all who have followed and favorited this story. I appreciate the support and I am very grateful considering I am learning to hone my writing skills. Anyway, I'd really love to know what you think so far. With that said… Let's get back into the story with another chapter.
A cold breeze entered the Captain's quarters though the window, accompanied rays of sunlight gliding into the room through the cracks of the drapes. The room was now slightly lit, revealing five sleeping figures. The cold breeze passed over the sleeping half-Asian, forcing her body to react with a slight shiver.
Mikasa was the first to open her eyes. Her grey eyes surveyed the room for a moment before she finally sighed and glanced over to her side where the twins and their sister slept, soundly, under the warmth of the comforter, leaving her with nothing to cover. That was probably why she felt so cold. Still, she couldn't bring herself to complain, seeing her children alright was all the comfort she'd ever need.
Still looking upon her children, realisation dawned upon Mikasa. The kids didn't have a place to stay—an appropriate one to be specific—and in no way was it okay for them to stay at the base. Her thoughts then strayed over to her adoptive parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jaeger. Last time she spoke to them, they said they were evacuated to Fort Rose. She would make a call. But not at the moment.
It was just too early.
Deciding that she was officially awake, Mikasa got off the bed and did a light stretch, allowing her muscles to prepare for whatever activities she'd do.
The cool air hit her body once more, forcing her to bring her scarf to her face. Man was it cold. It must have been the approaching winter. She then remembered that the kids hadn't had any warm clothing. Well that meant dedicating some time for shopping… or maybe Levi could do it.
Her thoughts trailed over to where said man sat on the chair at his desk, visibly fast asleep. She always thought he looked peaceful in that state. Even in his sleep he had a small frown but still… he looked peaceful.
Deciding on whether or not to disturb him, Mikasa finally opted to leave him be as she knew waking him up would mean the end of his sleep session for the time being and she didn't want to deprive him of the little sleep he did manage to get.
Feeling the slight pressure build within her, Mikasa took to the bathroom, ensuring that her footsteps would not disturb the sleeping Ackermans.
A few minutes later, Mikasa stepped out of the bathroom and proceeded to her bed. A bit of relaxation wouldn't hurt before she finally got up. With that, she walked back to the bed and took a seat, grabbing the parenting book from the end table and opened it to the page she last read.
Chapter 5: Spreading their Wings
Mikasa slowly felt mind immersing itself into the book, taking in the information it gave her. She didn't know if finding the book was by mere coincidence or a sign from the great above but she was grateful regardless.
Buzz…Buzz… her phone vibrated from the end table, snapping her away from the book and towards and towards the screen of the phone to check the caller ID. "Mom…" Mikasa said, as she read the name and immediately answered the phone.
Mikasa: Hello… Mom.
Mom: Mikasa, I'm glad to hear your voice. How are you? How are Levi and my grandchildren?
Mikasa glanced down beside her, giving Marie's soft hair a gentle stroke.
Mikasa: We're fine… everyone's fine… how are you and dad?
Mom: We're fine. Don't worry. Oh thank goodness. I don't know what I would do if I were to find out any of you was hurt. Say… I heard Fort Maria was broken down.
Mikasa: Oh yes, from what I've heard, a large titan kicked a hole in the wall and disappeared right after. Luckily, we left before any titans could enter the fort.
Mom: Oh dear. I'm glad you made it. Imagine what would have happened if titans did manage to enter.
As the woman continued to babble, realisation once more dawned upon Mikasa. This was her opportunity to ask if she could let the children stay with them.
Mikasa: Mom, I really need to ask a favour.
Mom: what is it, dear?
Mikasa: I was wondering if you'd let the kids stay with you for a while. You see… the barracks aren't exactly an ideal place for children to run around, especially kids like mine.
She said the last part while glancing at the twins, both in sleeping positions that looked reminiscent of Karate and believe her, the kicks were just as painful when they were asleep.
Mom: Of course, Mikasa. I'm surprised you even had to ask. Your children's second home is with us, remember?
Mikasa: Thank you so much mom. Is it okay if I drop them off today?
Mom: No problem.
Mikasa sighed in relief. She could always count on her mother.
Mikasa: what time can I come over.
Mom: Actually, Eren and Historia are coming over for the day. You and Levi can bring the kids over and we can catch up on some lost time. I really miss you, you know?
Mikasa: I miss you, too. Don't worry, we'll be there as soon as we can. Thank you so much, mom.
Mom: You're more than welcome dear. Oh… I can't wait to see you again. Say hi to Levi for me.
Mikasa: Will do mom… will do. Bye.
Mikasa sighed as she put the phone down. At least she knew her kids would be somewhere safe while she dealt with the whole titan mess.
"Carla?" she heard Levi's voice from his position.
She turned and saw him still seated at the desk, except now awake looking back at her with his exhausted eyes, "yes, and she said hi."
Levi only nodded in acknowledgement before asking, "So she agreed to take the kids in?"
Mikasa nodded in response, "she also invited us to spend the day with her and dad. I think we'll have another nice day." Her memories of the previous day hadn't left her yet
"Old man Jaeger's still kicking huh?" Levi asked, slight amusement in his tone. She then watched as he rose from the chair and did a stretch himself, "sorry but I don't think I'll be able to go with you. I have to attend a meeting today."
"A meeting?" Mikasa asked, "didn't Erwin allow us free time?"
"Yeah, he did, but he also requested Hange and I attend a meeting he was having with Commander Pixis," he explained before walking towards the bed and giving the twins a gentle shake.
"What's going on?" Dean asked, rubbing his eyes.
"Go bathe. You're going to Grandma and Grandpa's house today," he answered.
"Mmm… ten more minutes…" Daniel groaned before turning and looking the other way.
"Get up!" Levi barked and the twins immediately got up from the bed and dashed into the bathroom, the sound of running water immediately was heard.
Deciding to continue their conversation, Mikasa spoke up, "With all due respect, isn't it possible for Erwin to attend the meeting without you?"
"Unfortunately, all high ranking soldiers ought to be present," he explained, "and that includes Special Operations Squads. However, attendance isn't as strict for you as it is for me. Leonhart and the rest can cover for you."
Mikasa then sighed.
"…But, I'll try and pass by after the meeting," Levi finished, "I don't think it'll take us the whole day."
Mikasa then offered him an assuring smile, "don't bother yourself. This is something you have to do. My parents won't mind."
"I doubt old man Jaeger wouldn't mind," Levi shook his head, "the man thinks I always avoid him."
"I honestly can't blame him," Mikasa responded, "…considering that you always offer to help out in the kitchen. Like, which guy ever does that?"
"I'm liberal."
"You're afraid."
"I take offense to that, Mikasa," he responded, placing his hand on his chest for visual effect, "I can't believe that you forgot one very important thing…" he stepped closer to her, locking his eyes with hers, "Levi Ackerman isn't afraid of anything."
Before Mikasa could retort, both turned when they heard shouting coming from the bathroom, followed by the sound of water splashing onto the floor.
Mikasa noticed the annoyed scowl that formed on her husband's face. She could tell he was debating on whether or not to go check on them. The better thing was for her to go check before he ends up flipping about the mess they'd probably made.
"I'll handle this."
"How is it that a ten-year-old still can't dress himself properly?" Levi said, adjusting Dean's outfit, making sure there aren't blemishes or creases on his clothes.
"Dad, I'm eleven," Dean corrected, his face flushing in embarrassment while his brother sniggered from the side lines.
"You sure don't act like it," Levi pointed out before he stood to work on his hair, "Tch. it's like a fucking mop up here. Did you even dry it?"
"I did…" he responded.
Mikasa sighed as she watched Levi work. The boy looked perfectly fine, in her opinion. The only problem was Levi's perfectionism. "Levi, he's fine. We really need to go now. You'll be late for the meeting."
"Alright," he said before stepping away from Dean. She watched as his gaze shifted over to where Junior sat on his bike, eyes glued to his phone.
"Hey Junior, you better talk to your grandparents and not spend the whole time on that shitty laptop of yours."
"...sure."
Levi's gaze then shifted back to Mikasa, "I'll try and come over if there's time."
"Like I said, don't sweat it," she said before reaching out for his cravat and adjusting it, "busy fussing over Dean without even checking yourself," she then pulled away, "I guess we'll maybe see each other later?" she cocked her eyebrow.
"Hmm," he nodded, "maybe." She then noticed as his gaze went beyond her.
As though she sensed it, Mikasa allowed her eyes to follow his and she turned. Only to find a familiar face approaching them.
Familiar Amber eyes and ginger hair on a petite frame. Mikasa immediately remembered her.
"Levi!" she waved while approaching them, sporting a warm smile on her face.
"Petra," Levi responded when she finally arrived. He then motioned at Mikasa, "Mikasa, you remember Petra right."
Mikasa nodded before stretching out her hand to offer a greeting, "good to see you again, Petra." She responded, keeping calm even as the air started to get tense. There was no way she would ever forget Petra. Not after all she had said.
"You too," Petra responded, shaking Mikasa's hand.
The last time she saw Petra was the day before she was sent home because of her pregnancy. Sure they left on good terms but after watching Levi go through the heartbreak she caused him, she somehow found herself developing some sort of grudge against her, hoping to somehow meet up with her and make her feel something even worse than a heartbreak.
"Um, Mikasa is everything alright?"
Mikasa snapped out of her trance. She looked at where their hands had met and realised that they were still locked and her grip had tightened. She immediately released Petra's hand, "Sorry, I just spaced out," she said before bring her scarf over her mouth, "it's cold, isn't it?"
"Well, the winter is approaching," Petra offered her another smile. There was something about her that still set alarms in Mikasa's head.
She glanced over to Levi, who had been staring at her. Clearly he could tell what was going on in her head.
She then noticed Petra look beyond her, "Oh, are those your kids?"
"Yeah," Levi responded before looking at the kids, "guys, say hi to Petra."
"Hi," Marie, Daniel and Junior greeted, the latest still checking her out.
"My name's Dean," the twin greeted, "Hey miss Petra, are you a magician?"
"No, why?" she asked.
"You see, when I look at you. Everyone else disappears," he finally said. The way he wagged his thin eyebrows was comical.
Petra let out a small chuckle, "you're quite the charmer, aren't you?" she started, "just like your father," she said the last part while glancing a Levi.
What was that?
Mikasa noticed her husband shoot her a concerned look. He then looked back at Petra, "Petra, I was just about to leave for today's meeting with Commander Pixis."
"Really?" she asked, "I was headed there, too. All the Special Ops squads have to be present today."
"In that case, we best leave now," he said, shooting Mikasa an assuring look before turning, "come on."
"Of course," Petra started before looking back at everyone, "have a nice day."
Mikasa watched as the two walked away, Petra walking a bit too close to her husband. Dammit, she shouldn't be stressing so much. Petra was just an ex-girlfriend probably still in denial that he had actually moved on. Yeah, that's right, Levi was in love with her now. There's no way he'd betray her. After all, he said he would never dream of leaving her.
She then noticed, Petra place her hands on his arm. Really?
"Mom, are you okay?" she heard Junior's voice from behind her.
"Tsk. Let's go."
Levi took one last glance over his shoulder and saw that his family had already driven off. He felt a pang of relief flow through him because Mikasa had restrained herself. One of his wife's greatest flaws was her ability to hold a grudge. For he had experienced it first hand when he beat Eren up at a gathering some years back. It wasn't his fault; he was drunk, and Eren got on his last nerve.
Still, it was like the woman had made a vow to never speak to him again and only did so after a month and only after he apologized… to…Eren did she speak to him. The memory made him shudder. He had never imagined himself asking Eren, of all people, for forgiveness. Though… Eren suddenly gained a fear for him, which was a good thing in Levi's mind.
"So how are you liking Fort Rose?" he snapped out of his thoughts and looked down at the shorter woman. She had somehow slipped her hand into his. He didn't know whether to pull away or not so he just left it there, not holding back, but being held. It wasn't like it was of any significance.
Was it?
"I don't mind it," he responded glancing around, observing the nice architecture, "it definitely looks better than Fort Maria."
Levi and Petra finally arrived in at the meeting place. The only unique thing about it were the various murals on the walls along with the rose petal like pattern at the bottom. Otherwise, it was simply a hall with a table in the centre surrounded by a few chairs. Right opposite the table was a small desk that had a stop watch placed on it.
Probably for a minute taker.
"I'll see you later, Levi. I have to go to my squad now," Petra said, finally releasing Levi's hand before walking off to a group of soldiers.
Speaking of squads, he hadn't seen his own. He let his eyes wander until he spotted the people he was looking for.
He then proceeded to walk towards them.
"D-Doug… heh, stop it," Irene giggled as she was currently being tickled by Douglas. Annie, as usual, was in her own world, not even bothering to stop the two.
"Not until I get a kiss," Doug responded, not letting go of her.
"Behave," Levi snapped, forcing the teens apart and into salute. He then walked passed them to where he saw Hange and Erwin seeming to be in some sort of conversation.
"There you are," Hange said, noticing him, "I can't remember the last time I showed up to something before you."
"Family issues," he explained before looking at her head. her hair was forced into her signature messy pony tail. Couldn't she take care of it once? "and I can't remember the last time you combed your hair."
"Touché…" she admitted before speaking, "ah Levi. You won't believe it, but yours truly was promoted to Section Commander."
Levi was surprised—and curious—but his stoic face did not betray him. Instead of questioning the brunette more, he turned back to Erwin, "Hey Erwin, what's this meeting about?" Levi asked the much taller man.
"We're here to discuss the matter involving the breaking of Fort Maria's wall and realize the way forward," Erwin explained.
"So basically a continuation of the last meeting?"
"Precisely."
"Well look who it is?" A familiar voice catches the trio's attention. They all turn and find two familiar faces walking towards them.
"Miche, Nanaba. Good to see you again," Erwin greeted, the pair of blondes that approached them.
"I could say the same, Commander," Nanaba responded, saluting at him.
"Hmm… you all smell the same as when I last saw you," Miche smirked at them all.
"Not that I mind or anything, how are you two here?" Levi asked, somewhat surprised to see his fellow veterans, who were also adorning the Scouts uniform, "…wearing the Survey Corps' uniform?"
"Miche and Nanaba were stationed in Fort Rose to act as representatives for the Survey Corps," Erwin explained, "Nanaba had been here even before the invasion. Miche joined her afterwards."
"So they're like ambassadors?"
"Exactly," the commander confirmed.
Levi then looked at the pair. He couldn't comprehend how he was unaware of such a feat. It didn't make any sense because he was with Miche a few days before the titans showed up and the man had never mentioned anything about the fort. Before Levi could ask, the doors opened.
All Garrisons turned to salute as Commander Pixis walked into the room with a few other Garrison soldiers right behind him.
He came to a stop and one end of the table.
"Commander Pixis," Erwin acknowledged, bringing his fist over his heart in salute and immediately, all the present scouts saluted after him.
"Commander Smith," the bald man imitated his action, his Garrisons doing the same.
The two commanders eased their stances and Pixis was the first to speak, "At ease, soldiers!" he barked, every soldier in the room doing as ordered. He then shifted his gaze towards Erwin and placed his hand on the chair, "you may seat."
Levi followed suit as Erwin sat at the opposite end of the table. He took a seat on the chair on Erwin's right, opposite Hange, who had Nanaba next to her and he had Miche next to him.
The squads had stood at attention behind them. While the minute taker took his potion at the desk.
"The following meeting is about to take place between Commander Dot Pixis of Garrison Regiment, accompanied by Captain Kitz Woermann, Captain Carsten and Squad Leader Rico Brzenska," he started motioning at said people before motioning in the Scouts' direction, "and Commander Erwin Smith of the Survey Corps, accompanied by Section Commander, Hange Zoe, Captain Levi Ackerman and ambassadors Section Commander Miche Zacharius and Nanaba."
"The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the damage of the wall surrounding Fort Maria as well as discuss a way forward," he explained, "the reason for the presence of ordinary soldiers in this meeting is to ensure that there are eye witnesses present." He then looked at Pixis, "The meeting shall commence."
"Commander Smith. We are all aware of the fact that Fort Maria has been compromised but we would like to know the exact details of the event," Pixis began.
"Right before the wall was breached, a large titan was spotted peering over the wall," he explained, "it lingered for a few seconds before the hole was formed and judging by the height, we can only assume that it kicked the hole."
The Garrisons looked astounded, they clearly couldn't believe what they were hearing.
"A… large titan? Peering over the wall?" Pixis raised his brow, "…and are there any witnesses present?"
"Alongside myself is Captain Levi," Erwin responded, "he was with me at the time the giant appeared and kicked the wall."
"Is that so?" Pixis asked before shifting his gaze to the captain, "how large would you say the titan was, Captain Levi?"
"Considering it was able to look over the wall, I'd assume somewhere near 60m tall," Levi answered, remembering what he saw that night. He felt himself get a bit annoyed by the unbelieving looks he was receiving but he held back his scoff, "basically, the bastard was colossal."
"Interesting," Pixis nodded before looking back at Erwin, "what happened after it damaged the wall."
"It disappeared."
"…It disappeared?" Pixis was clearly confused and his soldiers seemed to have found it funny considering they were chuckling.
'The fuck's so funny?' Levi mentally asked himself as he listened to the chuckles. He couldn't tell what irritated him more; the fact that the idiots didn't believe them or the fact that they found it funny. He let his eyes linger to where Erwin sat, still as composed as ever. It was good that Erwin was in that positon or he'd have blown a fuse by now.
"Commander Pixis. May I speak?" Rico raised her hand, to which Pixis nodded. She then looked at the Commander, "so you're saying that a colossal titan just appeared out of nowhere, kicked a hole in the wall and disappeared right after?" She raised her eyebrow, "because if you ask me, it sounds unrealistic." She asked, the soldier right next to her nudging her.
"You think we're lying?" Levi asked, wondering when squad leaders could question Commanders.
"Not my words but… yes, I'd say so," Rico responded. The chick was a little too confident, "I mean, why would something so large just disappear immediately after doing something like that. If you ask me, that story sounds ridiculous."
"Actually, when you consider several factors," Hange started, "it is possible that the titan may have had an objective."
"Titans are mindless," Rico fired back, "how on earth would a mindless beast suddenly have an objective?" she asked.
"I agree with you on the fact that all known titans are naturally mindless. However…" Hange continued, "we cannot forget that they do bare many similarities to man-kind and thus, we cannot rule out the possibility of some of them—possibly undiscovered—possessing intelligence. The Colossal titan is the only titan of its kind from what my research has shown me. What's to say it couldn't have a unique mind of its own?"
"If titans possessed intelligence then they would have found out how to get into the walls by now and killed us all," Rico persisted, "Honestly speaking, your idea is nothing but absurd."
"E-Excuse me?" Hange glared through her glasses.
"You're only saying that because you've been under the protection of these walls for so long," Miche also stepped in, "you may have been trained but you lack experience. You don't have any reason to doubt the words of someone that has actually seen a titan."
"Well then…"
"Rico, enough!" Pixis spoke up.
"But, Commander…"
"I said… enough," he responded, "we came here to have a serious discussion, not to argue." He then looked back at Erwin, "Commander Smith, though I will admit that I am sceptical, I will keep your words on my mind. Now, what is it that you propose we do to move forward?"
"I say we work towards taking back Fort Maria," Erwin suggested.
"Take back Fort Maria?"
"Yes," he nodded, "The fact that they managed to breach our defences means that they're one step closer to defeating us and that makes us a step closer to losing. If we manage to take back Fort Maria, then we'll have managed to prove that humanity does stand a chance against the titans, not only to ourselves but to all those that have lost all hope in reclaiming their old lives."
"I see your point, Commander but…" Pixis started, "how exactly do you intend to take back Fort Maria, considering the fact that there is a giant hole in the wall?"
"That has been put into consideration," Erwin informed before motioning to Hange, "so far, the only solution we have come up with is to try and rebuild the wall or at least cover it up?"
"Rebuild the wall?"
"Exactly," Hange added before continuing to explain.
Levi felt himself grow bored as Hange gave her long explanation. However, he did feel himself growing annoyed by the sound of many people talking among themselves. His first instinct was to turn towards the scouts.
They were all silently standing at attention, actually listening to the discussion. He then shifted his gaze towards the Garrisons, who happened to be in their own conversations, giggling and talking about who knows what. Levi could immediately tell why things were turning out the way they were.
The Garrisons were completely undisciplined.
It was like they weren't in the same room as two Commanders. 'I can't believe these pathetic excuses for soldiers are what the Garrisons have to offer.' he said, mentally.
His eyes then shifted towards the woman that had caused a bit of a spark.
Rico.
He immediately recognised her as the woman Petra was with the previous day. When he observed her, he could tell that the young woman was a very confident and capable soldier. He respected that. It was just her attitude that annoyed him.
He then noticed as her silver eyes shifted to lock with his and the two entered a short staring—glaring—contest before the woman broke eye contact.
She was going to be a problem. He then decided to pay attention to the discussion.
"I understand you plan and I will see to it that we work together," Pixis agreed before leaning back into his seat, "is that all? Because I really need a drink right now."
"One more thing," Erwin responded, Commander Pixis motioning him to speak, "We know that the titans are a deadly adversary and therefore, I request that you give some of your soldiers the opportunity to volunteer to assist the Survey Corps. We will need as many hands as possible on deck if we're planning on going far."
Levi listened as the Garrisons broke into even louder conversation about how they thought it would be cool to fight titans or how crazy it would be to sign up. that was it, Levi had had enough.
"Excuse me, could you all keep quiet?" Irene had beaten Levi to it. Everyone went silent and looked over at her. She then took in a deep breath before speaking, "there are currently two commanders in your presence yet you choose to talk while they have a very important discussion. Where's your sense of respect?"
"Hey, who the hell do you think you are to talk to us like that?" one soldier asked.
Irene hesitates.
"Her name's Irene Smith, and at a young age, she is already the perfect example of what all you adult sons of bitches should be," Levi stepped in, "You all lack discipline and you clearly can't take your jobs seriously. In short, your conduct is lamentable."
The air had stayed silent for a few minutes before Erwin finally stood.
"Okay, I believe we've discussed enough for today, Commander," he said as Pixis also rose.
"I believe so, too," he responded before glancing at the minute taker, "and I believe all following meetings will not have witnesses from now on. You may all go." With that, the Garrisons proceeded to leave.
The minute taker nodded.
"Commander Pixis," Erwin started, walking towards the old man, "I'd like to apologize if my soldiers have offended you. Clearly, things did not go as planned today.
"No, problem, Erwin," Pixis said, offering him a smile, "honestly, your soldiers were right. The Garrison Regiment is heavily flawed and I intend to fix it. I should actually be thanking you."
"Ah, if that's the case then you're welcome."
Levi turned his gaze away from where the two commanders were talking and looked at his wrist.
1PM. There was still time to pass by his in-laws' place.
"Hey, Levi,' Petra's voice called out to him.
He looked at her and saw her approaching while assuring her friends that she was coming.
"Yes?"
"Oh, you see. I'm sure right now you're probably busy, but I was thinking that we really need to catch up on lost time," she started explaining, "so I was thinking we could exchange numbers and we could let each other know whenever the other was free so we could like chat or hang out or something. You know what I mean."
Levi looked down at Petra. Now she wanted to exchange numbers. Maybe he was just looking into things too much. She could just be trying to get rid of her guilty conscious. After all, she knew he was married .There was no way she'd even bother.
"...sure," he responded before they exchanged numbers. And waved each other off.
Levi then grunted when he felt a heavy hand on his shoulder, "Miche?"
"Levi, since we haven't seen each other in over a year," the man started, "it means we've missed out on a year's worth of drinking together."
"I'm aware."
"So, this Friday, I'm inviting you and Erwin over to The Sky Bar down town. It's the best place to be in this fort. Trust me," he explained, "As a matter of fact, I think I'll invite all the vets for a night of strong booze and reminiscing over good times. Are you going to come?"
Levi looked up at the giant man. It wouldn't hurt to get some alcohol into his system after such a long… time. it seemed fine, "Sure, I'll come and I'll let Eyebrow know."
"Excellent."
"Oh well. See you later Miche," Levi said as he turned.
"Where are you going?" he called after him.
"In-laws."
"Yikes, all the best."
"Thanks." With that, Levi continued to leave.
"Captain Levi."
"Yes..." he groaned, turning around to find Irene. "What do you want?"
"...I-I wanted to say thank you."
"For what?"
"For backing me up against the Garrisons, Sir," she explained, "if you didn't say what you said, I don't know what would've happened."
"Tch, those bastards needed to be put in their places. You don't need to thank me for doing the logical thing."
"I see..." Irene began, clearly unsure of the response to give the captain. She then turned, "well then I guess I should get going." She began to retreat.
"However."
Irene stopped and looked back at Levi, "Captain?"
"It was very courageous of you to speak up in such a situation. I'm impressed," he started, "you've got a lot of leadership potential. Be sure to nurture it."
"Thank you, sir," she responded before asking, "well Captain, what do you suggest I do to improve."
"Well for a start, make sure that you don't need anyone to back you up the next time you're faced with a challenge," he offered.
"Your advice will not go in vain, sir," she said, offering him a salute.
"At ease, soldier," he said, allowing her to relax. He the stuffed his hands in his pockets, "can I go, now?"
"O-Oh of course sir," she said before Levi started to walk off.
"C-Captain?"
Oh come on!
"Smith?"
"A-Are you going to be with Junior by any chance?"
"Yes. Why?"
"N-No reason... I was just curious," she responded.
"I'll tell him you said hi."
"Uh... okay thanks."
These kids and their complicated romance was something Levi found surprisingly fascinating. He never knew teenagers could go through so much confusion all because of a simple crush. Ah well, love never ceases to surprise anyone. It did surprise him when it was his time.
Teenage romances aside, Levi had one more thing to deal with for the day.
Dinner with the in-laws.
Hey guys, thanks for reading this chapter. I appreciate the support ya'll are showing me. And I definitely would love to hear what you all think. What do you think about Petra's introduction? Do you think I did a good job with the meeting? Please don't feel too shy to drop a review. I'd really appreciate it. I guess I'll see you the next time I update.
Bye.
