Chapter 8: Uncharted Territory

Uncharted Territory As Commander Erwin's words still lingered in the air, I couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions swirling inside me. Levi's eyes still locked onto mine, a burning intensity that seemed to sear my very soul. I felt my face heat up, my cheeks flushing with a deep crimson as I tried to process the revelation that had just transpired. The room seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of us, standing there, our hearts beating as one. Commander Erwin's voice cut through the silence, but it was distant, a muffled sound that barely registered. "Alright, I think we've made progress here. But I also think that you both need to take some time to think about what this means, not just for yourselves, but for the team as well." Levi's gaze never wavered, his eyes holding mine captive. I could feel the tension between us, a palpable force that seemed to grow stronger with every passing moment. I nodded, still trying to wrap my head around the emotions that had been unleashed. "Sir, I understand," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. My name is Kenzy, and I'm still trying to come to terms with the fact that I've admitted my feelings to Levi, and that he's felt the same way. "Very well," Commander Erwin said, a small smile on his face. "I'll give you both some time to think about this. But I expect you to be back on duty soon, and I expect your performance to be unaffected by this...development." Levi's eyes flicked away, his gaze drifting to the floor as he nodded. I followed suit, my eyes dropping to the ground as I tried to process the weight of Commander Erwin's words. The silence that followed was oppressive, heavy with unspoken emotions and unresolved tension. I could feel Levi's eyes on me, but I didn't dare look up, unsure of what I might see there. Finally, Commander Erwin spoke up, his voice breaking the silence. "You both can take some time off, get your heads clear. But remember, you're not just individuals, you're members of the Scout Regiment. And I expect you to act accordingly." With that, he dismissed us, and Levi and I filed out of the office, our footsteps echoing down the hallway. We walked in silence, the tension between us still palpable. As we emerged into the bright sunlight, Levi finally spoke up, his voice low and rough. "Kenzy..." I turned to him, my eyes meeting his. "Yes?" He hesitated, his eyes searching mine. "I...I don't know what to say." I took a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart. "You don't have to say anything, Levi. Just...be with me, okay?" Levi's eyes locked onto mine, a small smile playing on his lips. "Okay," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. And with that, we walked off into the unknown, side by side, our hearts beating as one.