...

“The city can change you… sometimes for the best and for the worst. Please.. Don’t cry.. You’ll forget me in time. After all life is too short to regret the past mistakes we have made.”

Before my death, I used to believe that life was only a short fragment. Now, I have realized that while it is true we should cherish our loved ones. We also forget it can be more endless and vast than the ocean in its moments. It can be terrifying plunging into the unknown, hoping the paths we choose are the right ones. Trying to figure out what we care about and what we stand for. But what happens if your path has already been laid out for you? What happens when you have unfinished business over and over again. I’ll tell you, it’s a lot like being chased. At first it’s a thrill, but as what’s chasing you gets closer and closer. Your heart is filled with anxiety and suddenly you don’t understand why the game isn’t fun anymore. You get tired and your legs suddenly feel as heavy as sandbags. Breathless, you stop and allow it catch you. When held in its embrace a flurry of emotions hit you. At first, you’re overjoyed at a second chance. But later as you explore more into the unknown. You become constantly tortured by those feelings you once carried in your heart long ago. Sometimes you have clear memories. They can be wonderful and heartwarming. Other times you’re reminded of the grief and heartbreak you have caused. You try to remember what made you want to live again. But in each scene that pops in your mind you vaguely remember who you once were. Sometimes your intentions are clear, other times you begin to hate being constantly reminded of your mistakes. You had hopes and dreams, you lived a life with the same face for many centuries. You try to hate yourself for having unfinished business and at some points you want to end it. You hate wishing for a scenario that may not have a certain outcome. but no matter how hard you want it to stop. You simply can’t help but try again..

“I don't get it... I can't seem to make this feeling go away, There has be a way out of it.” Levi thought as his school day was drawing to a close. "What's wrong with me. It's disgusting.” Levi had this feeling every day, sometimes it was faint other days it was stronger. It had always been this way from the time his thoughts could fully process what was going on. Since he could remember his parents had always told him that he was special. That he was an exact replica of someone great and powerful. But who exactly was he like? They never specified their name or any stories. They would just carry on with their lives as if he knew the answer. It both intrigued and annoyed him when they did that. "Who am I exactly." He pondered when the situation would arise. Every time his parents would bring this person up. He would wonder, who was he living up to be? What is it that they're talking about? the bell rang signaling that it was time to leave. Levi got up from his seat and gathered his items.
"Last day." He thought as he left campus. He never put much thought into why he had to move. But when he heard heard he was moving. He could feel his heart break. He was firmly against going to Trost and protested silently. But he couldn’t bear the thought of going against his mother’s wishes. so, he followed orders from his parents.
"Levi, you're moving to Trost for the time being. Your mother and I have some business to attend to. so we'll be leaving you in the Loft we have over there."
“isn't it supposedly dangerous?”
"You'll be in one of the safest areas. No need to worry we trust that you will be safe."
"I trust your decision.."
Levi sighed and went home with the memory of their conversation in his mind. When he arrived, his mother was in the kitchen preparing a meal. She turned around and greeted Levi with a smile.
"Hello love, how was your last day of school?"
"It was eventful." He murmured and ended the sentence with a soft smile. Levi adored his mother, she was a kind and strong woman. "I see, i’m glad you could have a lively memory of your old school. Are you excited Levi? You'll be living alone for the first time."
"I am," he lied. The heart wrenching feeling hit his chest again. The boy tried his best to ignore his shoulder. This time the pain was sharp, it was throbbing as if a fresh wound had opened.
"You know, I'll worry about you just the same. So don't get into any trouble." She warned.
"I will try not to." Levi smiled.
She had a pained look on her face and pulled him into a hug. In her mind she knew Levi would soon find his calling. You see, his mother and father had kept a secret. They tried their best to keep Levi away from that city. All to respect Levi's previous vow. He swore he would never come back. But she knew that city would call for her newly reborn father one day. So they decided to run from it as best as they could till it was time. When she heard news from her father Farlan about the city. She knew it was its calling and she could no longer protect him.
"I love you Levi." She whispered.
"I love you as well."
"Please take care of yourself." She sighed softly. A pained smile took to face as she looked at Levi.
"Mother, are you okay?"
"Yes, I am. I just don't want to leave you all alone. But I feel this is the best choice." She teared up.
"Don't worry, I’ll be fine,” he tried reassuring his mother. He hated seeing that pained look on her face. It made him feel guilty whenever she would look at him that way.
"I hope so." She smiled at Levi, wiped her tears, and sighed. Kuchel knew about her father's past from her dad. She knew that Levi had left with Farlan, They got married, and had her. She was happy knowing those precious memories.
"You look so much like him.." she pressed the palm of her hand against his cheek softly and smiled. Though she was only 4 years old when Levi died. She remembered her father's gentle nature whenever she looked back into her memories. Of course Farlan was still alive even after his death. But when he left, even after Farlan tried his best to hold back his tears over Levi. That her father would never return and she would only have a life with one father instead of two. She remembered his voice and sometimes his face.It made her smile knowing her father was within her son. She could feel her father's spirit strongly sometimes. The feeling only made her love him more.
"Like who." Levi replied.
"Like-"
The tea kettle on the stove cut her off with a loud whistle. Levi sighed mentally annoyed that his mother will probably forget her answer. This was a reoccurring event in his life that annoyed him to no end.
"Would you like some tea Levi?" She offered, placing a mug on the counter top.
"Of course." He smiled.
"I guess it won't be so bad.. though I'll miss this tea time with her. I'll ask her one day about the person she talks about so much." He thought as he watched his mother hum along to the song on an old radio. A smiled brimmed across his lips as she placed a steaming hot cup of tea in front of him.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the world. Erwin was making his way back to the city as well. Little did the group know Mikasa's soul never left. After she was executed by a rival gang. She had been reborn along with Eren, Armin, and Annie. They all looked like those who have long passed. Erwin was shaken up by his parents, who looked unusually excited. "Are we moving to the Bahamas?!" He asked sarcastically, knowing that would never be the answer but always asking it when they were excited about something. You see, back then in Erwin Smith's time. He was a serious man. A boss with many responsibilities. They weighed heavily on his mind. There were men that feared that name. He was serious and could break walls with his fists. But this reincarnated one, well... he couldn't care less about his past life. He would prefer to lay around and joke. Odd isn't it? His mother sat beside him and took his hand. "Honey, you're going to inherit the families club!!"
"What? Isn't that like, mafia territory or something?"
His father spoke up. "Well, yes, but you're technically in charge of that too!" Erwin's father looked at his wife and they both smiled before turning back to the boy. "when we realized just how much you look like him. We knew there would be a time to send you back.."
"But I was going to get laid tomorrow..." He groaned without a care knowing that his mother was listening. He looked up again. "Are there cute people I can fuck or..."
His mother slapped his wrist. "Don't talk like that in front of us!!" She sighed. "He had a lover, but I don't know if he'll be there..plus.." She was starting to get confused and Erwin laughed.
"I get it I get it, no fucking the family." He stood up and glanced at his bags, which were packed while he was sleeping. “Fucking creepy.” He thought.
His parents drove him to a private airport, where a small plane was waiting for him. "Are you guys telling me we've been rich this whole time and I never got that 3DS game I wanted. Because you said we didn't have money, when we obviously had money."
As Erwin was arguing with his parents, in the city of Trost, Mikasa sighed as she looked at the house next door. Someone was supposed to move in, either today or tomorrow.
"Maybe I'll get the person something...."
Erwin sighed, even after all of his protesting, he boarded the plane. He peered out the tiny window watching the plane take off. he took pictures with his camera and tried to stifle his boredom as best he could. Luckily, his plane landed soon, and a limo picked him up. Driving for a few minutes, he thought it would be long drive. Much to his surprise he noticed pulling up in a small neighborhood in no time. Though it was smaller than he imagined, the houses looked nice. He stepped out of the car, walked into his new home, and smiled. He thought the house looked very nice as he walked around examining everything. He liked that it wasn't perfect, that there were small cracks in the walls, but they were hardly visible. He didn't want perfection, he just wanted a comfortable home.
Mikasa noticed that the new neighbor had arrived. Curious to find out who they were she walked over. She knocked on the door, wanting to welcome them.
As Erwin finished admiring his new home, He heard a knock coming from the front door. When he opened it he found a young woman with gorgeous dark hair. In his mind he thought she was pretty cute, though he wouldn't admit it out loud.
"Hi, can I help you?" Erwin asked the dark haired girl.
"I just came over to say welcome, and maybe I could help you? Because there aren’t very many interesting people here." Her tone was humorous and casual.
He chuckled at her comment, opening his door wider, and welcoming her into his house. "Thanks for the heads up. Do you want something to drink?" After arriving he was at least able to put away his food and drinks in the refrigerator.
"I'm okay. It seems that this place needs a little fixing up." She pointed out as walked in.
He smiled and looked at the cracked walls. "Nah, I like its imperfections. Why waste money on things that don't need fixing, right??" He sat on the couch that had been placed in the living room, patting the seat beside him. "I like this place already, especially since I have a good neighbor."
"That makes sense, and thank you."
While the two members got reacquainted. Levi had finished his last dinner with his parents. He wondered why he couldn't just stay in another place. Levi let out a prolonged sigh as he laid on his mattress before Falling into a deep slumber. Voices calling his name echoed in his dreams. He could feel the soft touch of another human being.
“Levi.” they called to him.
“Don’t leave me.” another begged.
“LEVI!”
The voice made his eyelids crack open waking to an empty room. In that moment, reality set in, this wasn't a dream anymore. He didn’t prefer sleeping often, it made him hate himself. The voices would call to him in his sleep. Sometimes they would be sweet and sincere. Other times he felt as if a dagger had plunged into multiple parts of his body. But whenever he would wake the same voice called to him.
“Please come back.”

Thinking of their voice made him feel heavy with guilt. He knew they weren’t from anyone he had relations with. But they still haunted him, over the years he had learned to cope with them.
“Get up, move forward, they’re gone. There’s no point in looking back into it.” He thought to himself. Everything had been packed and sent over days prior to his departure. What needed to be there were his bags and lastly him. Though he was due to leave yesterday; Levi decided today would be best. He could drive of course and it wouldn't be a problem. However, his parents suggested he leave by train. They also mentioned something about a surprise waiting for him. Whatever it was could be from a pet goldfish to keep him company or some lavish item he would never find use for. Levis parents called him over to the car. Taking one last good look at what he called home. He entered the car reluctantly and off they went. Levi gazed out the window looking for places he used to roam. Some were fond memories of childhood while others brought discomfort. Despite the pain, he never truly felt at home in the town he lived in. Something just kept saying no inside his heart. When they had finally arrived, the cool morning air blew on his face as if to say farewell. Trains were boarding or departing here and there. While people kept moving onto their daily lives. His mother teared up as they reached Levi's designated platform.
"I love you Levi. Don't forget that." She smiled.
"I love you too mother." He spoke as he pulled her into a tight embrace. When he pulled away Levi's attention was brought to his father. They never spoke much to each other. However they weren’t on bad terms either. The whole idea was strange to him in a sense. He shook his father's hand with a polite grin.
"You're almost like him, even if i didn’t exactly know him." Levis father mentioned. Levi knew he was making an effort to compliment him without sounding too uncomfortable.
“Yeah.” he replied
"We couldn't have been more proud of you." His mother added on.
"Please be safe, It will be hard, But we know this is best choice for you to find your way again. Just as he did back then when it was his time."
"I see.. but who exactly are you talking about?"
"Someone else that looked very much like you. You have his courage, it's like your own, but it's there deep inside you. Whenever you feel troubled, let it guide you."
"But who-" the train pulled up cutting off Levi.
"All passengers please board." A woman's voice came over the speaker.
"It's time for you to go. we love you Levi, don't forget that." She smiled and kissed his cheek. Levi nodded then turned to face the train. He didn't want this, but he boarded the train without much of a fight. Something in him said "I have to face it sooner or later."
After an hour of sitting on the train; Levi contemplated means of escape. He never when through with it of course. But, he did feel uneasy on the ride over. When had finally arrived, he stepped out, of the train, and felt the hot breeze burn his cheeks. The feeling was almost nostalgic to him. "I'm back." a part of him spoke again. He walked confidently with his bag across the platform. Someone was waiting for him with a pair of keys. The man was surprised and looked as if he had seen a ghost. straightening himself he greeted Levi.
"Hello Mr. Ackerman. Welcome back."
"What do you mean welcome back."
"I mean nothing by it sir, I was just welcoming you is all."
"I see," Levi couldn't help but be annoyed. A stranger having answers? It didn't sit well with him.
"Here are your keys to your car." The man dangled a pair of keys from his index finger.
"My car. Are you shitting me."
"No, I am not, it has Your mother and father had this car waiting for you."
"I see thank you."
Levi couldn't tell what the man was looking at through his shades.
"Your car is in parking lot A. There's already a GPS course set to your apartment."
"Thank you for telling me."
“It’s no issue i can’t handle. Now if you’ll excuse me i’ll be on my way.”
"Thank you for telling me."
“It’s no issue i can’t handle. Now if you’ll excuse me i’ll be on my way.”
As the man turned to leave, he stopped mid turn and took a good look at Levi.
"Have a nice day Mr. Ackerman, Please take care of yourself more this time." He smiled softly before disappearing into a crowd. After he was out of sight, Levi was a bit unsettled by his words. since he didn't know the man personally it was odd to hear that comment.
“This time huh.” Levi muttered under his breath, he jammed his hands into his pockets. As he went made his way to the parking lot. Strange thoughts began to pool in his mind. Levi shook his head as in an effort to make them stop. Despite all his attempts his mind still wandered. what exactly was in store for him in this city? Far from Levi’s whereabouts, Annie was very opposed to her next mission. she didn't care if she was almost a carbon copy of her grandmother. She didn’t care if she was the first female American Mafia boss, and she didn't give a shit if she was to follow in her footsteps. All she knew about her was that she went on this “life changing” mission in this filthy godless city. she saved this rundown club. That soon elevated to places only men would sell their limbs on the black market for. But just as she got home from her last day of freedom before her move. she was to go and follow in her grandmother's footsteps immediately. Did she get a say? no... Was she happy about it? There was no end to much the word no could be used. Even though she liked killing people for very good money. The new job she was assigned to would probably be taxing on her time. This in turn would make her other jobs fade away. She didn’t enjoy the thought very much, who exactly would keep grudges in a rusty bucket of a city. She felt it wasn’t worth much to keep and should be left alone. However, Annie refrained from verbally and physically refusing to go. She knew in her mind if she did that'd be a shit show. She just nodded, packed her things, and followed orders. Since the date of her birth, Annie’s skin was littered with birthmarks. However they never appeared as a typical dot on your skin. There were long strokes of discolored skin along her back and sides. Her shoulders were so scarred from her past life they looked as if she was used as a shooting target. Her index finger had long pink lines that appeared as if she sliced it many times. But the final scars on her hands, were bite prints on the meaty part of her thumb. She honestly couldn’t find an answer for these marks but she felt emotional towards them. As Annie inspected her hand, as she had done many times before. The black van she was riding in pulled into a fast food joint’s drive through. Both the driver and guard asked for her order. At first she denied them, but soon gave in,knowing that refusing to eat the rest of the way would get her nowhere. That and they constantly pestered her with suggestions and questions. When they set out again for the city of Trost. Annie couldn’t help but think about her life and what she was taught from a young age. While eating her fries, she thought about the comments given to her. Most of them would be of how much her features were like her grandmother’s. The only difference between the two is Annie had darker hair. It wasn’t blonde and shimmering but a very light golden brown. 'Maybe she was me in a past life.' Annie laughed to herself at the thought, she refused to believe that fact. As the van reached the reached the dirt road of her new home’s driveway. The curious female peered out the window to look outside, there was a decent sized house in view. No neighbors, no people for at least a few anchors. Annie had a small victory dance mentally while keeping her usual cold blank stare. The girl stepped out and looked at the house. It was pretty, but it obviously hasn't been inhabited for a while, the men carried her bags in and she slowly walks in. It was unfurnished, all accept for a downstairs bedroom, which had a lone mattress. She felt haunted by its presence and ordered someone to remove it. As the moving van pulled up with her selection of furniture, Annie directed the whole moving process. she told them where to place her furniture and where her personal items should be placed. As the men left she sat down on her front porch, looking out at the piece of land, it was still in the city but it is completely isolated. Annie decides to go get the lay of the Land. She walks down to her driveway, where they had dropped her car off, it sang flashy but it was somewhat nice. She got in and went around her round about and down the driveway. Annie passes many warehouses, shops, restaurants skyscrapers, town homes, "looks like a solid city,” she says as she drives off to find a place.
While Levi, Erwin and Annie had arrived. There were still 3 members who haven't showed their faces. Armin being the first of the three. idly packed his things as his mother had told him to. Of course he wouldn't know it, but it was the first time since his past life that he had seen his mother or lived with her. In his previous life, he'd donated some sperm and somewhere, a woman had gotten it and became pregnant with it. There his mother was born later age got pregnant, and Armin was reborn as her child.
His mother told him that he was being sent to a good school, although it was in a dangerous territory. Of course his mother had posed her concerns about it at first, but the area actually wasn't bad at all, it was pretty peaceful. Armin's mother lightly knocked on his half open door.
"Armin sweetie, come have something to eat before you have to leave." She said softly.
"I'll be down in a minute." Armin replied, smiling to his mother.
Armin joined his mother downstairs for the last lunch he would be sharing with her- she'd made his favorite beef pot roast for the occasion.
He couldn't help but smile brightly at the sight of the meal out on the table and the delicious scent it produced, his mother always kept him well fed. Armin was a shy, quiet boy- a little pudgy, but his mother would always tell him that he just hadn't outgrown his baby fat yet. She’d smile and say that one day he'd grow up to be a tall, handsome young man. He never doubted her, though sometimes he couldn't help but let his gaze linger on himself in the mirror. after his showers, he would start mentally imagining what he'd look like without the small love handles. If only he knew that much of that came from all the spoiling his husband had done to him in his past life.
After a nice filling lunch, Armin's mother helped him pack the last of his things and went over a checklist with him.
"Socks?"
"Toothbrush?"
"Check."
"Inhaler?"
".....no..."
Armin's mother sighed and went into the bathroom, grabbing his inhaler from the cabinet and came back, handing it to him.
"You need to keep this on you, Armin." She berated. "I love you, and I don't want you to have an asthma attack and possibly die from it. You know how bad your attacks can get at times."
"I know, I'm sorry mama...." he said quietly.
The woman pulled Armin into a hug and kissed his forehead.
"I'm not angry, just worried." She said softly. It had only been an hour, but Armin was already sorely missing his mother, and the bus ride was long and boring. He glanced out the window, watching the clouds in the sky for a brief moment- would he make any friends at this school? Armin was already shy as it was, but he was also highly intelligent, which had him worrying that he'd be bullied for it. He didn't even need to take his pudginess into consideration or his asthma, he was considered a loser by social standards and he knew it. Armin eventually fell asleep on the bus, not worried about missing his stop since it was hours away.
When Levi reached parking lot A. He used the remote on his keys to find the vehicle. It made a loud chirping noise which made it easier to find. When saw it, his eyes lit up as he whistled."Damn." Levi was impressed. He wasn't too interested in cars. But he did appreciate when something was clean cut and up to his standards. some cars were a bitch to fix but nice to look at. Especially black ones with a fine finish like this. Levi unlocked the car and hopped in. The engine started to roar after he turned the key in the ignition. He felt at ease knowing he wouldn’t have to scrape up a ride. The best part? It was clean. The lights on the control panel glowed showing his route. Levi pulled out of the parking lot and made his way toward his apartment complex. It took a while to get his mind wrapped around the whole idea that this was his new home now. At a stop light he rummaged through the glove compartment and found a note.
"This was yours back then. I know you'll take good care of it again."
Levi sighed after reading the note and put it away as the light turned green. When Levi arrived, he pulled up to the gate. The guard had the same expression on his face as the man he had talked to earlier.
"Again with the damn look. Just take a fucking picture. It will last longer," He muttered as the guard let him in. As he entered the garage, He parked, took out his bags, and went to the elevator. When it hauled him up, Levi felt his anxiety bubble to the surface. Right as it stopped and opened, Levi walked down the hallway.
"Better not have a foul stench," He mumbled sticking his key into the door knob. When he opened the door a burst of air smacked him in the face. Upon further inspection the loft was spotless. A blurred scene veiled his eyes for a moment blocking him from reality. He remembered laughter and fond memories. And even..
"heart break." Levi whispered as his fingers gripped the fabric on his chest. He walked in cautiously as if he were expecting something to pop out. Closing the door behind him, he explored the rest of the loft. This was the first time he had ever set foot in it. According to his mother she had been with him there many times. Curious, Levi searched first floor and found nothing. The place felt abandoned and lonely despite it being cleanly and furnished.
"Nothing here, I guess it was nothing then." he whispered quietly to himself.
His fingers slid on the railing as he walked upstairs to the second floor. Down the open hallway, there were three closed doors. From what Levi could tell from his last vision. He noticed each one was different. It felt as though they once belonged to someone else. Looking through the second and third of the rooms. Levi was disappointed to not find answers explaining his feelings. What he did find was a guitar, furniture and beds. Making his way to the first door, he wondered why he never bother to open it. Anyone else would have started off their search that way. But something about the others rooms called more attention. His steps softly patted on the wooden floorboard building up tension in his body. Something was there but he didn’t want to get his hopes up. The man stopped and pressed his hand to the door.
"This one was mine." A voice inside him called out.
His body acted on its own, almost as if his muscles remembered his usual routine. It felt odd when he walked in at first. There were no apparitions this time and he felt relieved. The room was peaceful, Levi began to search through the closet and cupboards. Something had to be there, he didn’t exactly know that. But he needed to find it. When he came up with nothing he wondered if it was just his imagination. Feeling uncomfortable from all the travelling he had done earlier. Levi walks to the bathroom, slipped off his clothes, left them in a nearby hamper and walked into the shower. The shower doors were clear which was an odd sight. He wondered there wasn’t a trace of privacy. He didn’t care for it much until he had found a switch. When he flicked it, the glass fogged over spreading quickly. It blocked off the view from outside and made him feel more comfortable. As he twisted a knob releasing water, he tensed for a moment feeling the cool water gradually heat up. This city was unbearably hot during the summer. He had sweat a gallon before even getting into his car. Beads of water slipped down his body washing away his impurities. It was his small oasis, a place to get away from all the memories. Little did levi know nothing could stop them from returning. The smells, the sights, and sounds. they were all digging and chipping their way back into his mind once more.
In a different space Levis grandfather looked at the calendar on the wall. knowing that his grandson would be taking over the family business. He wondered what his parent’s were thinking bringing him to a city like this one. It was enough that the boy was named after his deceased husband. but as Levi grew up, he even looked like his deceased grandfather....the genetics were strong in this family. The Ackerman bloodline was thriving and would continue to thrive through him. The old man grabbed his phone, deciding to text his beloved grandson.
'Hey, it's your grandpa Farlan. You might be in the middle of traveling, so text me back when you get the chance.'
Levi felt as ease for a moment after his shower. reaching for a towel, the man dried himself off.
"What's with this city?" He thought wrapping his towel around his hips. Levi checked his notifications. Noticing he had received a text message from his grandfather. Levi opened the message, read it, and replied.
"Just got here actually, Do you want to meet up?"
Surprised to get a reply only a minute later, the old man smiled and texted back.
“I'd love to meet up. Where?”
"How about the cafe down the street?" Levi replied.
"Wait. What cafe am I actually talking about.." Levi said out loud to himself. He hated that about himself. Sometimes he would say odd things without much thought. It was an irritating habit to try to cover up, especially since he had a very colorful unfiltered vocabulary. Though he was glad this one was tame enough to cover up.
“Down the street? From where?” The older gentleman replied, not knowing where exactly his grandson had been sent to. He knew the general area of where, but not an exact location.
"From the loft of course. You know the one in the shopping district? Apparently you know it from a while back. Mom told me you used to take care of it. Mom didn't mention who it was that owned it. She just said it belonged to me."
“Ah yes, that one. There are a lot of memories there. Anyway, I'll meet you at the cafe.”
“see you soon." Levi replied before setting his phone to charge. Before putting on his shirt, Levis reflection caught his eye. A birthmark that looked as if a pink splotch of paint had been slapped onto his shoulder.
"I wonder what kind of complications mom had when she gave birth to me." He thought as he traced over his birthmark with his fingers. Levi sighed and put on a shirt. He left the room and grabbed his house keys and walked out the door. The boy walked down the street searching for the cafe. After a short few minutes of walking, there it was just as he has said.
"Why this one?" Levi thought before entering. He had ordered some black tea and macaroons as he waited for his grandfather. Back in his home town, people used to be intimidated by the mean scowl he carried on his face. They would be surprised when he had some in his bag. For having such a serious face, eating a tiny pink and colorful cookie was an odd sight for most.
Levi’s grandfather picked up his keys and headed out the door- his old joints protested to the actions, but he ignored them in favour of going to see his grandson. He drove to the cafe and went inside, finding his grandson sitting at one of the tables.
"Levi, it's good to see you again!" He said, smiling at the young man. Levi looked up and walked over to farlan. A soft smile crept over boys lips. It was another habit etched into his DNA. Levi helped his grandfather over to the table and ordered some tea for him as well.
"Are you sure you're okay to come here? I'm sorry if I caused you trouble." Worrying was also a habit he didn’t understand. Levi couldn't stop worrying about his grandfather. Sometimes he would look at him and say things like "I'm sorry." Or "I missed you." Even if it had only been 5 minutes since they had last seen each other.
The old man chuckled and reached across the table to pat the boy's shoulder.
"Levi, it's alright, I'm not going to keel over anytime soon." He said, a soft twinkle shining in his dulled blue eyes. They fell into a comfortable silence, drinking their tea and munching on macaroons until his grandfather broke the silence.
"You really do look like him...." He said quietly.
"Look like who? Every time I ask mom she's always cut off or dodges the question. It gets annoying sometimes" Levi sighs. He take a bite out of the macaroon and thought pops in his head. "Almost as good as the ones in France." He was sweet on Levi most of the time which the boy didn’t mind at all. The old man would allow Levi to call him Farlan, his birth given name. But he looked at him as if he had seen a ghost sometimes. Levi directed his attention toward his grandfather again when he spoke.
"Like your other grandfather.....Levi Ackerman." Farlan replied, looking slightly sad.
"He was my husband......poor man died of cancer in Paris and I was left to raise your mother. I wish he could've grown old with me, if he could see you now, he'd probably say it was like looking into a mirror of the past."
Farlan looked at the tarnished wedding band on his finger and smiled sadly- he'd refused to take it off, even if he was widowed. Levis eyesight fell on his grandfather's wedding band. Sorrow blanketed his heart making the boy feel guilty.
"I'm sorry I left you farlan." He whispered, before he snapped back to reality.
The old man furrowed his brows, barely catching what his grandson had said.
"Sorry for leaving me?" He asked. "What do you mean, Levi? You've lived with your mother, but you've never left me."
As the two were talking, Annie decided to stop for coffee. she hasn't slept since she left her old post. She pulls into a nice looking coffee shop, she notice it had a nice flow of people. The girl opens the door and inspects the place, there was an older man and a younger one sitting at the corner table, a few other people where lounged out on couches and other tables.
"No sorry, I- I don't know what came over me. This city is doing things to me. Like for example: I heard laughter and voices inside the apartment. One was girl, she was especially loud" Levi closed his eyes trying to resurface the scene. Names had popped into his head. though he had never heard of them before he told Farlan anyway.
"Isabel... And maybe an Erwin. This place is making me go bat shit, I have flashbacks to things I have never experienced. Sometimes I see a man with hair as blond as yours. We walk together and I feel comforted by him. Almost as if he we were in a relationship. But just before we kiss, I wake up. it was an odd dream. But I don’t mind it too much." Levi sighs. Annie walks up to the counter and orders, the server said that they would bring it out to her so she sits at a table and a waits her coffee. Meanwhile, Levi wondered what this all meant. He looked around the room and noticed a dirty blonde standing out from the rest in the small crowd people. "Should I know her?" he thought as he awaited his grandfather's response. Farlan stared at Levi speechlessly for a long moment.
"You have a great aunt named Isabel...... But I don't know how you would know Erwin, you've never met him as far as I know." The old man muttered still astounded by what is grandson just said.
Annie felt eyes on her, they had now fowl intent so she didn't do anything, the server came out with her coffee and she nods as if to thank them.
"Well I've never been vocal about it. Never seemed to be enough of an issue to talk about. At one point I thought I was making it up in my mind. Farlan, I feel like I know to know things I shouldn't remember. This place is seems horrible. But there are some good memories here.. I had to come back eventually right?"
As Annie sipped her coffee she stared at her hand. She noticed the little marks on it began throb as if they were just inflicted. she rolls her wrist and looks around a tad bit more. Her eyes once again kept on looking at the boy. He was only a few tables over, She knew him, but from where?
Levi’s grandfather was unusually quiet, the young man looked over his grandfather's shoulder. The girl he was looking at before now was making eye contact with him.
"Why is she looking at me." he thought staring across the room. Farlan reached out, cupping Levi's cheek- tears were welling up in the man's eyes. It distracted Levi and broke his gaze off her. The young blonde sighs when she sees the old man distract him. just as she was about to stand to get closer. Her phone vibrates, It was from her father. There was an address, apparently lead to where she was supposed to set up shop. She leaves her unfinished coffee and hurries to her car speeding off in a different direction. It bothered her the most to know she was always going to called away. Even when she was close to finding something out.
"You're......him." He said quietly.
"You came back..........Levi...."
Levi held his hand over his grandfather's instinctively. It was a appropriate for him to react this way. Especially since in his past life, he adored Farlan as his beloved husband.
"I have.." Levi replied. An unusual nervous sensation warmed his heart. Reacting in such a way made him uneasy at times. Levi wasn’t sure of what he was saying or doing. It was all too strange and somewhat weird to act purely on instinct again.
"Why did I come back?." Levi asked his grandfather sounding calm and collected.
"Who knows...." Farlan mumbled. The old man leaned over the table and kissed Levi's forehead.
"I have something to show you...."
"Show me?"
Farlan pulled out his wallet and showed Levi a few old pictures from inside it. He slid one across the table, The image was of him and Levi from the night he had proposed.
"This was 42 years ago......" he said.
Levis fingers traced over the picture before picking it up and inspecting it. "How gross, That old man had my face.." he said shocked by the resemblance. They were practically identical. From his eyes, to his hair, to the way the man in the picture smiled.
"42 years ago. If I am him… then that means I married you and we both were.."
Farlan nodded and slid over another picture. He and Levi were smearing cake frosting on each other's faces in Paris. Erwin was in the background with a smile slapped on his face.
"This man...." he said, pointing to Erwin. "Is this who you meant when you said Erwin?"
"Eyebrows? Yeah, that's him, is he someone special too?" He asked.
Farlan smiled and slid over another picture, one that had Isabel and Eren with their newborn daughter- all of these pictures had been emailed to Farlan over the years, he'd gotten them printed just in case they were deleted.
"You said you knew Isabel?" He asked.
"Yes is that her? With the red hair?"
"Yes, that's her… The boy next to her is Eren, and the baby is their daughter Carla. Eren is dead now, but Isabel is still alive."
"Isabel, Where is she?" he looked up from the photo burying any other feelings that arose. "I'd like to meet her er- see her again."
"She's living in the same apartment complex as you..." He said. "I haven't seen her since Levi- I mean you and I ran away together."
"Really? So would it be awkward for you or I to see her? I don’t remember the details of why I didn’t talk to her..” Levi looked at her glowing smile next to a man who had his arm around Isabel’s shoulder. His heart broke seeing them together like that. He longed to see more pictures of him. But even so, he knew that person not only hurt him but also stole his heart.
“But maybe it would be nice to see family.. I just hope she doesn’t think we’re still engaged." Levi hoped feelings of guilt would go away. What exactly were Levi's feelings toward Farlan and this man. He knew this wasn’t love but it felt close. Farlan noticed a change in Levi’s tone. He wondered if the boy was still in love and decided to try to cut him out of that state. Remembering things from his past life had to be difficult. But they both knew his love was only from his past life’s memories and not of the present Levi.
"Levi, my love for you is conflicting..." Farlan sighed. "I loved you deeply when you were mine, but now you are my grandson....Levi James Ackerman."
"It's been a while since someone has used my full name like that. You’re right, that Levi is gone.. but he's still alive within me. I'm sure you and I, if I die that is.. we'll be reborn and meet again like this? On equal terms." Levi’s voice sounded sweet as he reached for Farlan's hands. Levi paused for a brief moment looking at his aged fingers.
"You age better than fine wine Farlan." Levi complimented him in French. His mother had taught him French and was almost as fluent as Farlan.
Levi returned to speaking English and only saved his french for when it was needed. He only used it to speak to his mother or other loved ones of his in this language.
"That’s what I would say to you when you had a midlife crisis. I remember you pouted about looking older. I can tell that I loved you very much. At least throughout some of the flashbacks I’ve seen."
Farlan smiled and held Levi's hand, holding it tightly.
"I really do love you....but I need to let go of that love." He said quietly. "You're my grandson son now...."
"Then we'll meet soon, judging from the past we'll probably fight for each others hearts. I can tell it was tough for you back then." Levi paused for a moment. "I loved you Farlan. I will love you again soon" He smiled.
"I promise." odd as it was having feelings for Farlan. Levi didn’t want him in any sort of sexual manner. Farlan was his crutch for most his past life. The feelings he had were for the younger Farlan he once loved.
"Can we go see Isabel?" Levi asked snapping back to reality. "Let's pay her a visit...." Farlan nodded, wiping away a tear that had managed to slip.
"I'll help you along the way. So if you need help it's okay to lean on me." Levi smiled softly. The two walked out of the coffee shop together.Levi would occasionally feel pressure on his shoulder. He didn't say anything about it nor did he complain about it. At one point Levi thought maybe he should ask Farlan if he wanted to stop. but the old man had fight left in him and he was too stubborn. when they reached the elevator door. He looked to Farlan, "What floor?"
"Third..." he replied, trying not to show that the walk had left him almost out of breath. He leaned against the elevator wall as Levi pushed the button, sighing softly. The elevator pulled them up to the third floor. Anxiety began to cling to Levi’s body. When they had stepped out of the elevator Levi took Farlan's hand. He gripped it tightly just as he had done so long ago. Levi awakened another scene in his mind. He had disappeared for his own reasons. When he had come back from Paris after a year of not showing his face. He went to see a dark haired girl, when she saw him she was angered by his presence and slapped him. he could feel the sting on his cheek as if it had just happened again. The look on her face was one he hoped to not see on Isabel’s. Levi looked at Farlan and took a deep breath mentally preparing himself. He knocked on the door and waited with bated breath. Isabel slowly opened the door, her once vibrant red hair now white with streaks of faded red and grey. Her green eyes now had a more dull tone, and they didn't have quite the same happiness to them as they always used to. She was quiet for a moment, staring at Levi in shock.
"....big bro?" She said quietly, her voice shaky and a bit rough.
"Well no.. and yes.. you see.. I died of cancer. From what Farlan has told me. I wanted to meet you again. Since Farlan has told me that we have both run away from here. Some part of me deeply regrets what I have done. And wishes to apologize for not being there." Levi bows to the old woman.
Isabel stood there in silence, reaching out to touch Levi's face.
"How could you have died when you're right here?" She asked. "Are you a vampire or something now?"
"No, no Isabel, this isn't the same Levi, this is your great nephew.....it's hard to explain, but Levi was reborn as my grandson." Farlan said.
Isabel just looked confused, her old mind not quite as sharp as it used to be. She could only touch Levi's face and try to get the gears turning in her head to process it. Levi held her hands and tried to explain the situation to her.
"In soul, and heart I am the old Levi. The one you knew long ago, But I died and Farlan watched as I took my last breath. this body of mine is new, I was reborn. I swore to myself I wouldn't come back. But I knew that promise would break eventually. even if it meant being reborn... Isabel, You were my sweet younger sister.. But you're older now, So I guess you're a big sis." Levi choked out and pulled her into a hug. "I was too stubborn to come back. I don't know why.. but I loved you even on my deathbed. I never once regretted that life. Nor the actions I took." He breathed trying to suck his tears back into his body. Isabel hugged Levi as tightly as she could, though her old age kept her from giving him the kind of tight hug she used to when she was young. At least time had been kind to her- yes, she had wrinkles, but not too many. Even for an old woman, she clung to the smallest shred of youth. Levi smiled and rubbed her back.
"May we come in Isabel? It's been so long let's talk."
Isabel nodded in response to Levi, pulled away and lead them into her apartment. Farlan immediately noticed the six cats that went running the second they walked in, and felt sorry for Isabel- things must have been tough after Eren died. The dark haired boy found it adequately clean and found a spot on her couch. Levi noticed a black cat with a white tuft on its chest.
"Hello, nice to see you again," He greeted the cat quietly as Farlan and Isabel talked. The cat purred and rubbed against his leg happy to see another human being. Farlan gave Isabel a hug and kissed her cheek.
"It's good to see you, Isa." He said softly.
"I've missed you, Farlan." She replied. "Have a seat, I'll get you two some tea."
As she left Levi looked around. It was strange to him. For the first time since moving to Trost there was something was completely new to him. No memories, Just Isabel and a cat to remind him of his old life. But even then, it was pure bliss to not encounter anything that evoked his past.
"This place is different, but I'm glad she kept it clean." Levi commented. Farlan nodded as he sat down.
"Funny, she used to be the mess maker." He said. "I guess having a kid and a husband changed that."
"I guess it has, tell me Farlan… Did I change when I married you?"
"You were the same Levi I grew up with and the same Levi I fell in love with." He replied. "You died the same man I’ve known my whole my life, the only difference was when we had our daughter- eh your new mother."
"Did something happen when mom was born?" Levi looked away feeling guilty. He was curious, Levi to know as much information as he get could from Farlan about himself. But he knew it would cause his grandfather to uncover feelings of buried pain as well.
"You just became more fatherly when she was born." He said. "I honestly had never seen you so enamored over a child. The look on your face when you held her for the first time....you looked like you were holding the world in your hands."
"She was my world, you both were." Levi felt his scar throb after he finished his sentence. "I guess it still burns." Levi thought placing his hand over his shoulder. He notice the worried look Farlan's face. Levi hated having to explain himself. but with Farlan he would make this explanation an exception.
"Sorry, sometimes it hurts if I try to remember too far.. would you mind telling me what you know? how exactly was i like when i died? I remember only a few scenes before I left. I'm afraid if I try more it’s gonna be really annoying if I try too hard. My mother never bothered to talk about grandpa er- Me."
"Leave the past in the past. This is a new life for you....if you happen to remember some things, then that's fine, but even I don't wish to relive your last moments." Farlan sighed.
"what is it that I need to do here." Levi looked at his shoulder. "This mark… I have questions that need to be answered..." Levi muttered to himself. Levi knew it was a long shot to ask but at least he tried. For now he would withdraw from asking so much. He began to think carefully about his next move.
"you're right.. it was a bit insensitive of me. You loved him.. But he was happy you were there with him. So don't feel at fault, if you don’t believe me I understand why.”
"Levi, that birthmark is a scar..." he mumbled. "It was from a woman that loved you in your past life. She faked her death to spite you and showed herself when she poisoned you at our wedding....our first one anyway."
"poisoned? Didn't I die from cancer? The blood.. I was gone.. you brought me back didn’t you? I don't remember every detail. But we left... I never came back.." Levi came to a slow realization and turned pale.
"I did all this to you?" Levis tears fell from his eyes. Something inside him was writhing in agony over those he had tried to protect. He didn’t help, he was a source of pain to those who needing healing.
"I put you through so much pain and you loved me anyway? Farlan.. why. I clearly wasn't this amazing human being. Why did you go through that hell?" Levi was in emotional distress, he hurt the ones he adored the most again and again.
"Levi, it's alright....you don't owe me a thing." He said softly. "This new life of yours....I want you to take it and live it to the fullest. My time will end some day- just look at how old I've gotten, I won't be around forever, you know. I just want you to be happy, that's all I've ever wanted for you, and now that I've been a big part of what made you happy. I want to see you live"
"What have I done.." he whispered.
"I never meant to leave this world so early, I'd have been there in Paris with you. You were an amazing father, what do I have to show for? A tombstone with my name on it.. Even with the shit that has piled up over the years. Thank you for giving me that chance to love someone like you…”
Farlan hugged Levi tightly, holding back tears. He couldn’t bear the thought of seeing Levi hurt again.
"I loved you too, Levi..." He whispered. "So much of it hurt, but it was worth it.....just to be with you and put a smile on your face made my life worth while. Our daughter brought me joy, and watching her grow up and get married made me feel like losing you wasn't the end."
"I'm so happy I got to see you again Farlan." Levi cried silently over his shoulder. He longed for Farlan to heal his grieving heart. But they're relationship is different now. Levi couldn’t kiss the man he once loved. Instead a small and touching scene was his consolation prize.
"when I saw you crying by my bed after I died.. I wanted so badly to hold you like this before I left.. now that I can do it once again. I can feel at peace knowing your feelings."
Farlan pulled back again after a moment, cupping Levi's face and wiping away his lover’s tears like he'd done when he was younger.
"Shhh shhhh.....it's alright." He said softly.
Farlan paused and looked toward the kitchen- what was taking Isabel so long? Levi closed his eyes and felt calmed by the man’s soothing voice. If they were the same age... It was odd, feeling this way after his memories had awakened.
"We'd better go check on her." Levi suggested noticing the concerned look on Farlan's face. Farlan nodded and slowly got up from his seat before Levi. The apartment was eerily quiet it made them both on edge.
"Isabel....?" He called, making his way toward the kitchen.
There was no reply.
"Isabel? He called louder as he rounded the corner to the kitchen. He stopped abruptly, staring in silence- Isabel was hunched over the table in one of the seats, one hand was holding the handle of the tea kettle, the other loosely clutching a spoon. From what Farlan could tell, she wasn't breathing.
"Levi......" He sighed.
"Isabel?" Levi whispered softly reaching out his hand. When he touched her the warmth in his hand fled. She was as cold as ice and didn’t flinch.
"Isabel..." Levi tapped her shoulder.
"Isabel." He choked.
"Please don't leave us like this.."
Farlan could only watch for a moment before he called 911. The paramedics were on their way. But they both she was gone for good and nothing could bring her back. Levi knelt down and held her lifeless hand. He sat there for a moment longer. He she tears for moment mourning his beloved sister. Before the paramedics had arrived his kissed her hand sweetly.
"Sweet dreams Isabel..." he whispered softly. The paramedics had arrived to take Isabel's body. She'd died of natural causes, merely falling into a sleep that she'd never awake from.
Levi and Farlan didn’t bother to follow her to the hospital. It was only right that her immediate family take responsibility of her. Levi knew if he attended the funeral and met her family it would only end in grief. Farlan pulled Levi to his chest, holding him close when the paramedics were out of sight.
"She must have been holding out to see us...." Farlan said quietly. Levi felt his heart skip a beat and held Farlan tightly. "She might have.. What an idiot.." Levi held his tears back.
"I could smell the tea she made for me back then...." He laughed softly, the heartbroken boy couldn’t stop his tears. He tried his best getting a grip on his feelings but couldn't. The old man rubbed Levi's back, gently rocking him from side to side and whispering reassuring words to him, assuring him that Isabel had died happy. After a while, Levi parted from Farlan's warmth. He wiped his tears and breathed in deeply.
"She made such a mess..always the one to leave the cleaning to us." He laughed and held Farlan's hand.
"Please try not leave a big one for me too. I don't think I could bear it.." Levis voice cracked. Farlan reached out, wiping Levi's tears once again.
"I can't make any promises on that, but I'll try my best." He said softly.
"I wish you could take the pain away.. Like you used to, I know you can't but.." he sighed stopping before he could finish his sentence.
"You need to find someone new to love, Levi....." He said. "It's alright for you to move on… like you said, we'll love each other again in another life, just not this one."
"But why.. there wasn't another person as far as I know. It was just you. I fell in love with you Farlan. If you're alive but at this age. Then, what's the use of my existence?" Levi asked it hurt knowing he failed in his past life.
"I know it's wrong to love you because you are my grandfather.. I know it's sick and disgusting. But I can’t control these feelings no matter how hard I push them down. How did I do this without you before?" Levi looked away ashamed of the way he acted.
"I'm just.. very confused. A lot of emotions and memories are coming back. I don’t want you in that way, we’re different now and you're right." Levi sighed. Farlan sighed and kissed Levi's forehead.
"Regardless of whether it's sick or wrong, I love you too." He said softly. "I'm only going to be in this life for so much longer before I'm reborn. I don't know how long it'll be until I return...."
"It took me 42 years.. Apparently. What a fucking long to wait. You must have been pissed." Levi joked trying to lighten the mood.
"I'll wait for you.. but don't mad if another tries to steal me from you. Your pouting face was sickeningly cute from what I remember. So don't go moping around while I'm gone okay my love?" Levi paused in shock after his sentence and covered his mouth.
"I swear, I don't talk like that. Nor have I ever said those words in my life. I am so sorry sir."
Farlan chuckled and shook his head.
"It's alright...." he said softly. "We'll have the rest of this one day to talk the way we used to....but in the morning, you'll go back to just being my grandson."
Levi couldn't help but blush at those words. " there you go again... Are you sure Farlan." He sighed. “I don’t want to dig up pained feelings.”
"It's not just for you, Levi...I have to admit I've gotten a bit selfish over the years, but I know our limits." He replied, caressing Levi's cheek.
Levi shivered his body remembering Farlan's soft touch. His heart was beating for Farlan again. "Funny.. I feel like I'm in Paris again." Levi whispered. The boy’s eyes lit up with color as his mind projected a small film. Farlan regained his youthful glow again, back when they were 20. They shared a moment of bliss, Levi couldn’t help but cherish it for what it was.
"That was a very beautiful time..." Farlan said softly. "I remember the blush you had when I first kissed you in front of the tower.....you were perfect in every way."
"Please don't speak so sweetly.. I'll fall for you again for sure in a next life if you keep that up." Levi thought and teared up. “I don't know what I could do without you, if you left this world like I did in the next life..” He held Farlan's hand. His love for the man would always be there. But now it was different. His love for Farlan was dying in that moment. After pausing for a minute and gathering his thoughts he gave Farlan one last gift.
"I lied.."
"What do you mean you lied?" He asked, squeezing Levi's hand softly.
"When I said "see? Nothing to feel" And brought you back to the kitchen. I lied.... I felt a spark light up in my heart. I knew I loved you, when you held me close in the garden. Even if it was just moments before. I loved you Farlan even if it felt wrong. I wouldn't have kissed you if I didn’t adore you.” Levi’s words were soft and sincere. "I loved you Farlan. From the moment we felt each others hearts beat when I returned home. I don’t remember who broke my heart then. But in a way i’m glad they led me to you."
Farlan blinked in surprise, feeling his heart race slightly.
"Really?" He asked.
"Yes. I might have not admitted it or had the chance to tell you. But I've always felt soothed by your embrace. "I Could die in his arms." I once thought. Who thought that one day.. either way, I'm glad we had this chance to meet again" Levi held him close. "Farlan church, Now that i have the chance to tell you. I'm so happy I married you in my past life. It makes me sad to let you go again. But this is for the best, I'm sorry if I don't remember you in the next life. You know how I can get sometimes."
"You're more stubborn than a hundred mules....I know." He said softly. "But I know we'll love each other again."
"Do you really believe that we’ll live again?" Levi asked. He felt stupid asking this question since he was living proof. But hearing Farlan's voice promise he would always felt secure. Levi knew when he said he would prove anything to him. He would do it or at least try not knowing if it would end in failure. He was always a shithead and did it with Isabel’s help even if Levi protested.
"Of course I do...." he replied. "Whatever gods allow us to be reborn clearly led us together again, even though I'm still stuck in your past life. I know they'll make us lovers again..."
"Staying like this with you.. I will not lie, I feel bitter about reuniting like this. Where I can't kiss you." He tightens his grip on Farlan. "But at least they gave me the ability to hold you for this long."
Farlan chuckled, hugging Levi tight.
"Well technically you could kiss me, but I'm pretty sure you don't want to kiss an old man." He chuckled.
Levi paused for a moment and thought about it. "Fine, just One kiss." He said just as he had in his past life. Levi pulled Farlan's head down. His grip was strong but gentle. Levi pressed his lips on Farlan's forehead and hugged him close. "I'm satisfied with just a platonic forehead kiss. You’re my grandfather after all. How pedophilic would that be if I had kissed you."
"I didn't know you were into old men." Farlan teased, holding Levi close.
"Oh please. If you thought I was going to kiss you. Especially like I did back then. you'd break a hip."
"We'll be together again some day." He sighed. "Let's get you home, today has been stressful for you."
"Right." Levi sighed and walked out of the apartment. He closed the door after Farlan had exited it as well and led him to the lobby. The silence between them was calming. Levi had his closure and Farlan's blessing. Farlan was his grandfather now. Nothing more nothing less. Despite the feelings the past Levi had. He knew they were meant to stay there in that life. But maybe in the next one they might flourish once again.
"Do you want me to drive you home?" Levi asked.
"No, no...my car is back at the cafe lot." He replied. "I can walk back and drive home."
"Alright if that is your wish, just be safe okay?" Levi was genuinely worried after Isabel’s passing.
"Levi, Isabel was far worse off than I am right now." He sighed. "I'll be okay."
"Right.. old habits die hard. I love you, I'll see you soon gramps." Levi smiled opening the door for Farlan.
"I love you too, Levi." He said softly. "I'll keep in touch."
"Please do." Levi waved as he watched the man walk away. He felt as if a weight had lifted from his shoulders. Feeling free once again, the once lovelorn boy smiled for a moment. After the old man had disappeared from sight. Levi made his way to the parking garage, found his car and pushed the key in his ignition. When he pulled out of the garage he noticed how dark it was.
"Better get going before everything closes." Levi sighed speeding off into the night.