Silent Affections (𝐿𝑒𝓋𝒾 𝓍 𝑅𝑒𝒶𝒹𝑒𝓇)

*Chapter 2: Unspoken Bonds**

(a/n- im making levi's personality a lil different, only around u. cuz I can?)

*The morning sun pierced through the cracks in the stone walls, casting beams of light across your room. The warmth on your face gently stirred you awake. Today was the day of the mission—a crucial one, as Levi had mentioned. You quickly readied yourself, ensuring your gear was in top condition and that you were mentally prepared for the challenges ahead.

The mess hall was already bustling with activity when you arrived, the clatter of plates and low murmur of conversation filling the air. You grabbed a quick breakfast, your thoughts still occupied by your brief encounter with Levi the previous evening. It wasn't like him to show even a hint of personal interest, and it left you wondering if there was more to his actions than met the eye.

After breakfast, you made your way to the briefing room, where the rest of the squad had already gathered. The air was thick with anticipation and a sense of nervous energy. The mission briefing began promptly, with Captain Erwin Smith delivering the details and strategies for the day's operation. Levi stood beside him, his presence commanding and authoritative.

You couldn't help but steal glances at Levi, who was now focused entirely on the briefing. His eyes were sharp, his posture rigid—a stark reminder of the weight of the responsibility he carried. You wondered what thoughts lay behind those intense eyes as he listened to Erwin's plans.

As the briefing concluded, the squad began to disperse, preparing their gear and double-checking their equipment. You moved with purpose, readying yourself for the mission. The sound of boots behind you made you turn, and you found yourself face-to-face with Levi, who had approached you with a deliberate stride.

"(Y/N)," he said, his voice cutting through the ambient noise. "A moment."

You nodded, following him to a quieter corner of the headquarters. The way he said your name was different from usual, more personal, and it made your heart race slightly.

"I wanted to ask..." Levi began, his gaze momentarily softening as he looked at you. "How are you feeling about today's mission? Any concerns?"

You were taken aback by his direct question. Levi rarely engaged in such personal conversations, especially before a mission. "I'm confident in my preparation, Captain," you replied, trying to keep your voice steady. "I'll give it my all."

Levi's eyes met yours, and for a fleeting moment, you saw a hint of something behind his stoic exterior—perhaps it was relief or even a trace of care. "Good. Remember, if you encounter trouble, don't hesitate to call for backup. We're all relying on each other out there."

"Understood," you said, your gaze unwavering. "Thank you, Captain."

Levi gave a curt nod and turned to leave, but before he walked away, he paused for a brief second. "And... try not to let the pressure get to you. You've got this."

With that, he walked away, leaving you with a swirl of emotions. His words, though simple, had a weight to them, and you could feel their significance. It wasn't often that Levi offered such personal encouragement, and it meant more to you than you cared to admit.

The mission itself was a grueling test of skill and endurance. The Titans were relentless, and every moment demanded your full attention and effort. Levi's presence on the battlefield was a beacon of precision and strength. He moved with a grace and efficiency that left no room for doubt about his capabilities.

Despite the chaos around you, you couldn't help but notice Levi's occasional glances in your direction. It was as if he was silently checking on you, ensuring you were holding your own amidst the carnage. Those brief moments of connection, however fleeting, were enough to fuel your determination.

As the sun began to set and the mission drew to a close, you and the remaining squad members made your way back to the headquarters, exhausted but victorious. The feeling of camaraderie and accomplishment was palpable, and you could sense a shift in the atmosphere.

Once inside, you were greeted by the familiar clamor of soldiers unwinding and tending to their injuries. You made your way to the medical tent, where a few minor wounds were being treated. It was here that Levi approached you once again, this time with a rare, genuine expression of approval on his face.

"You did well today," he said, his voice low and sincere. "Your actions helped turn the tide in our favor."

You felt a flush of pride at his words. "Thank you, Captain. I was just doing my part."

Levi's gaze softened further, and for a moment, he seemed to struggle with his words. "No, you did more than that. Keep up the good work."

With that, he gave you a nod and walked away, leaving you to bask in the warmth of his praise. As you watched him disappear into the crowd, you realized that the bond between you and Levi was deepening, one unspoken moment at a time. The mission had brought you closer to understanding him, and you couldn't help but wonder what other revelations lay ahead in your journey together.

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**End of Chapter 2**