Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The heat had increased in the neon beach city; summer was here, and it left a stickiness on your skin and homes, as if they were covered in maple syrup. Fans and AC were on full blast to try and provide release, but it was never good enough. When the sun had set, the heat was intensified by the neon signs blasting their bright lights all night long. Bars and clubs played their deep bass songs, only adding to the irritation of those trying to make a living.

During the day, the city was hot but welcoming. It was full of life and people wearing bright smiles. People played roles, portraying happy individuals living the good life. The main promenade by the beach was often filled with vendors, rollerbladers, musicians, and artists. Within the city, busy businessmen and women hurried about, trying to reach their work while sweat streamed down them.

As soon as night fell, the other side of the city stirred to life. There was a dark side to this lively, free city—one that had gradually infected it, its toxic veins winding deeper, thickening and pulsating with power. Buildings and people carried the stain of greed and possessiveness. The same few owned most of the city. Not everyone in charge was wicked, but it was enough.

Being new to the city, you only knew the basics, but over time, you’d uncover its hidden secrets. It had been a whole year since you moved here for a change, a future, and a career. The home you had was a bungalow by the beach; the garden was small but full of life thanks to your sheer will and determination, and the interior had a few rooms, but not many. The bedroom was separate from the other rooms, with an air conditioner that rattled and squeaked like an ungreased bed. The bathroom was old-fashioned, with colourful tiles, a deep bath, and a simple shower. The kitchen had a tiny dining area with more colourful tiles to keep the room cool. Your living room was filled with colourful and cosy touches that you added.

You pried your eyes open and looked at the ceiling fan wobbling above. The alarm designed to wake you for work hadn’t gone off yet, but because of the heat and muscle memory, you were already awake. After disentangling yourself from the sticky sheets, you took a morning shower before getting dressed for the day. Light clothing was the best choice, but you still needed to maintain a professional appearance. Breakfast was quick so that you could prepare your lunch. Once finished, you went out the door and rode to work on your skateboard.

With music playing through your headphones, you weaved through traffic. The usual people heading to work recognised you and gave a small wave. You glanced to the side as a tall man with brown hair, slicked back and ocean-blue eyes, soaked in madness, grabbed someone’s throat and pushed them into a building with darkened windows. You assumed it was one of the few involved in shady dealings. As you kept going, a car drove past with a woman with long black hair, cat-like eyes, and painted red lips and nails. The style of the vehicle indicated she was extremely rich.

You came to a stop at a newspaper stand and looked over what was there. You recognised the paper you worked for and grabbed it right as someone else did. A small gasp escaped you as your hand touched a slender man’s hand with veins standing proud; this perfectly handsome hand had to belong to someone just as perfect. As soon as you looked up at the owner of the hand, your heart skipped a beat as you gazed at a walking god.

The man in front of you was dressed impeccably in high-end clothing, yet he wasn’t showing off. His crisp white shirt had sleeves rolled up to reveal his muscular forearms covered in tattoos. A waistcoat fit snugly, emphasising his lean, muscular build, with a slender waist and broad shoulders you could just hold onto. His trousers were stylish and fit his thick thighs perfectly. The black smart shoes he wore seemed to shimmer. His undercut raven hair framed his handsome face, and those steel-blue eyes appeared to read you like an open book.

You gulped hard. “Sorry, after you.”

Levi picked up the paper and admired it. “Thank you.” He looked through the paper. “I always get this one.”

You grabbed one for yourself and paid the seller. “So do I.”

“I admire one of the reporters.”

You gazed up at him and looked like an adorable bunny. “Miss Chambers?” It had to be her; she was well-known, well-loved and the top reporter for the newspaper and the website. “She’s impressive.”

“No.” He moved the pages until he reached the right page. He leaned over and showed you your article as he said your name. “I adore everything she writes.”

A warmth spread through you at hearing praise about your work; the man had to know it was you or was completely nuts, because there was no way he saw your work as the best. You barely got the good stuff to report about. It was confusing why he liked your stuff so much. Part of you wanted to believe he was genuine and truthful.

“Nice choice.” You shyly chuckled. “Hope she gets a big break soon, then she’ll knock your socks off with a deep dive report.”

A slight smile spread on his kissable lips. “I hold out hope for her. I’m always rooting for her and her adorable mind.” He handed money over and folded the paper. “Do you have somewhere to be?” He looked at his watch. “It’s a quarter to nine.”

You grabbed his wrist and stared at his expensive watch. “Fuck nuggets!”

He held back a laugh. “Fuck nuggets?”

You released him. “I gotta go! I have to be clocked in and logged on for nine.” You rushed around and hopped on your board. “Nice meeting you!”

Levi tapped the paper against his lips as he watched you. He only spoke when you were out of earshot. “Nice meeting you, too.” He smiled as he said your name.

You slammed your foot on the end of your board, flipping it up and allowing you to grab it. As you raced inside, you said hello to the security guard before slipping into a lift just as the doors were closing. “Made it.”

The ride up to your floor gave you a chance to flick through the paper. Once again, Prescilla Chambers had the main story, her name and picture standing proud. The woman was a powerhouse; she was always on top of the reporting scene, and no one could beat her. Many admired her, you did for a while, but something rubbed you the wrong way; she seemed too perfect and new too much. Being a reporter was hard work; you had to make sure you had an ear to the ground and your finger on the pulse, but with Prescilla, it seemed like everything landed on her lap.

Ms Chambers was in her late 40s and so thin and pale that it looked like she would break any second. Her skin was perfect and smooth with just a few wrinkles around her eyes; the rest didn’t exist due to a bit of useful Botox. She had brunette hair with some volume and side fringe that swept to the side. Her eyes were a pale blue that captured your attention, matched with dark, perfectly plucked eyebrows, a slender nose and red lips. She smoked in secret, but everyone knew she smoked like a trooper. Her clothes were designer, some that weren’t bought on her salary, so someone was spoiling her with their many riches.

“You’re cutting it close.” Li Chen chimed, a black coffee in his hand.

You rushed by your desk buddy, and dear friend, to your desk. “I know, I got distracted.”

He placed a cup on your desk. “Cute dog or cat?”

You paused a moment. “I’m not that bad, right?” You slumped into your chair and started up your computer. “It was our paper, actually. This one I’m near the front page, so it’s important to me.”

He took his seat next to yours. “What page are you on?”

You flipped through the paper, folded it back and showed him. “Page four, baby!”

He pushed his glasses up and hummed. “Well done.”

“Thank you.” You grinned with pride. “Soon I’ll be page two and then, the front!”

“I believe in you.”

You moved the pages to the finance section. “As always, your section is perfection. I love how you make money easy to understand.”

“Everyone has a right to know about money and financing.”

You reached over and poked his cream coloured cheek. “You’re the best.”

A light dusting of pink too over his cheeks, but he remained stoic. “Mm. You’re too kind.”

Li Chen was a smart guy; he mainly worked on the politics and finance side of the paper. He was primp and proper with how he presented himself and spoke. He was always in suits when other people wore more casual things in the office. His hair had a little length to it with a few flicks, side parting, and an attempt to tame it back was made, but often failed. There was just a lovely dark chocolate look to his almond eyes. People in the office would joke that he had been in Chinese dramas and decided he’d had enough of the fame and wrote for a paper; it was mainly a compliment on his beauty, but he would tell people they were ill-advised on that information.

You slapped the paper on your desk and patted your hands in thought. Ideas swirled in your head for your next piece, something felt right, like this was your time. There was a story out there made for you, and it was going to bust something wide open, but you weren’t sure what. As you were thinking a commotion happened in the office space, Prescilla was in, and people were surrounding her like a flock to a prophet. The praise was laid on thick, but her smiles were pageant girl fake.

A gentle call of your name snapped you out of your thoughts. As you looked up, you saw Prescilla had made her way to you. She softly smiled after saying your name. “Right?”

“Yeah, that’s me.”

She tapped her perfectly painted nail against the paper. “Good work on your last piece, it’s so passionate and flows so well. You write for everyone.”

You glanced down at the paper slowly. “Uh, thanks?” You questioned. You were a little perplexed as to why she was speaking to you of all people.

“Such interesting ideas you have.” Her head tilted a little as she softly laughed. “I would love to know more.”

You hummed as a few ideas about future works floated through your mind. “I was thinking about possibly reporting on the strange shift in budgets for communities to other things in the city, it’s like the common person is being forgotten and the rich are favoured.”

“Interesting.” She replied. “Which one concerns you the most?”

“Mostly the inner city schools.”

Li sternly said your name, as if he were warning you. “We have some work to do.”

You grinned at him. “You’re right.” You quickly glanced at Prescilla. “Sorry, have to get back to the grind. Well done on your latest story.”

“Thank you.” She chimed. “I believe my next will be just as exciting.”

With her final words said, she walked confidently away in her heels. Everyone watched her go like she was some sort of celebrity, but your eyes were drawn to a man in the back who seemed to be glaring at her.

“Hey, Li?”

“Yes?”

You looked back at your friend. “Isn’t that Zac?”

Li pushed his glasses up. “Indeed.”

“Why’s he glaring at Prescilla?”

“It’s because he believes Prescilla stole his idea.” He began tapping on his computer. “They were close. They talked often over coffee, and he told her all of his ideas, including the one about the food health report. Next thing he knows,” he slammed the space bar and turned to you as if he was adding drama to the statement, “his idea is now front page with Prescilla’s name on.”

Your eyes widened. “So that’s why you stopped me from talking.”

“I’m sorry to say, but your idea has now been stolen.”

“So, she’s been taking ideas from others and using them as her own?”

“Correct.”

You kicked back and pouted. “Bitch.”

“Indeed, she is.” He began typing again. “She used to have ideas of her own, but I suppose they never paid off. She found the easy way out by stealing other people’s ideas.”

You picked up your drink and sipped it. “Can’t believe the perfect Ms Chambers is a fraud.” You gulped down more of your drink. “I would how deep the corruption goes.”

“Perhaps that is your next big project, but remember to keep it secret.”

You nodded at your friend’s encouragement and word of warning. “Appreciate it. Also, great fucking coffee.”

“You’re welcome.”

You leaned closer to him. “This thing I’m gonna look into, I might need your help.”

“Go on.” His eyes sparkled with interest.

“I’ll need someone to help me look at numbers; no doubt there's some money being shifted around.”

He smirked as his eyes darkened at the idea of investigating corruption with you. “I’d be honoured.”

You drummed your hands on your desk in pure excitement. “Awesome!”

“You were right.” You gripped the paper in your hands. “She stole my idea.”

Li picked up his iced drink and hummed. “Told you she would.”

You slapped the paper down on the café table, startling other customers. “Does everyone know she does this?”

He paused a moment in thought. “I believe so.”

“And no one has said anything?”

He picked up the menu and looked at the cakes. “Those who have tried no longer work with us.”

You leaned your cheek on your hand as you moved the ice in your cup with your straw. “So, to beat her, I have to outsmart her.”

“I believe that is the best course of action.”

You banged your head against the table. “I don’t think I’m smart enough to do this.”

Li reached over and lightly petted your head. It was sweet and affectionate, like a brother soothing his sister. “You’re smarter than you think. I know you are the one to do this.”

You lifted your head. “Thanks. I look up to you because you’re so smart. If you think I can do this, then I believe in myself.”

“Good.” He rose to his feet. “I will get cake.”

You hummed a laugh because Li had such a sweet tooth. “Sure.”

As Li went over to the counter and ordered cake, you were people watching. Most people were going about their day, but after a while, you began to notice something odd. Some shady characters in smart outfits were chatting with others and swapping things. A heat spread in your cheeks when you recognised a gent walking in from the newspaper stand, a tall, muscular blonde by his side.

Levi glanced over and clocked you right away. He smiled sweetly and winked before looking away. “That’s her.”

Erwin sneakily looked over at you. “Oh, I get it. She’s perfect for you.”

“I just want to eat her up.”

“Maybe you should ask her out?”

Levi handed Erwin an envelope of money before making his way over to you. “We meet again.”

You felt your heart race. “Y-Yes. Hello.”

He nodded to Li. “Is that your boyfriend?”

“That’s Li Chen, he’s my friend. We met at work. We hang out a lot because we get on.” You fiddled with your notebook. “He’s helping me investigate a few things.”

“Like what?”

You looked him up and down. “Well, if I tell you, you might stop me.”

“Why?” He leaned closer to you, flustering you. “Are you looking into naughty people like me?”

“You’re naughty?”

“I’m more than happy to show you.”

“Levi?” Erwin moved closer. “We need to go.”

“Levi, huh?” You frowned a moment as the name rang a bell. “I think I’ve heard that before.”

Levi tucked your hair behind your ear. “Try to remember it.” He softly said your name before walking out of the café with Erwin.

You shivered as you felt pleasure surge through you. “Mm.”

Li Chen placed two plates of cake down before sitting. “That was Levi Ackerman.”

You started at Li. “As in the gang leader?”

“Correct.” He cut a bit of his cake. “It appears he has taken a liking to you. This is useful for your investigation. He could provide you with information on corruption.”

You nibbled your lip. “It’s likely he’s involved.”

“Indeed, but he could protect you.”

You released a long sigh. “Possibly. First, I need to look at where we work before spreading further.”

“You’ve done excellently so far.”

You opened your notebook and looked over your notes. “I feel like I’m just scraping the surface and there is something deeper.”

“There’s always something more, like a bigger cake.”

You stared at Li. “You love cake a lot, don’t you?”

He nodded as he hummed in happiness at eating another piece of cake. “I do.”

You leaned your cheek on your hand as you watched him. “I think I’m going to go to the archives at work.”

“Be safe.”

You got up, ordered a takeaway drink and made your way back into work. You nodded at those you passed and found your way to the archive room, which was void of life. It was rare to have someone come down here; most didn’t care much for the past works of others, but in your situation, you needed to know more. There had to be something that hinted at the issues happening.

Due to there being no windows downstairs, it was hard to know what time it was unless you actively looked at your phone. You filtered through all the old papers and research that past reporters had done. It was impressive to see how some of the past reporters had to be; they weren’t afraid to get dirty. Seeing this, it felt like all this was a lost cause until you noticed a change in recent years. Two names popped up, and it seemed reports were done about then, but soon came to a stop.

“Ms Chambers.” A deep male voice sang. The very voice sent a cold panic through you, as if this was a voice of someone who killed others, like it was part of his normal day.

You slipped to the floor before crawling to the bookshelf and peeking over the row to see a nervous Ms. Chambers. In front of her was a very tall man in a suit, hands in his pockets, with his shoulders hunched and leaning forward. His brown hair was slicked back, although a few strands had come loose. His face was so perfect that he must have been obsessed with serums to achieve it, including his impeccably groomed brows. His eyes were a blue-green like the tranquil oceans around Bali; however, this ocean threatened to drag you under with its monstrous grip and destroy you. When he smiled at Prescilla, there was no tenderness or joy—only pure madness and violent cravings.

Prescilla stood her ground as best as she could with her arms folded and her feet staying still, but her gaze was downcast. “Mr Redwood.”

Bruce Redwood. He was a pretty boy CEO owner, ruthless and yet charming, all wrapped into one. Beneath the surface, though, was the most cruel and sadistic human being you’d wish you’d never met. Kindness and love were a foreign thing to him. He fucked and killed his way through the city and gave only his toxic ideas back. No one was safe from his cruel ways, and you were sure he had never truly felt love once in his life. Seeing Prescilla linked to him was horrifying. What the hell had she gotten herself into?

Bruce grinned, his perfectly white teeth reminding you of a starving shark. “I don’t like repeating myself. Was I not clear when we first met?”

Prescilla gulped hard. “I understood and heard you, do not fuck you and make sure not a single report involves you, and you’ll give me inside information. I’ve done that.”

“Well, well, well.” He chuckled dryly. “Aren’t we confident?” Slight crinkles appeared at the corners of his eyes as he smiled more. “Tell me, Prescilla the amazing Prescilla Chambers, why I feel like I went a few rounds in the bedroom without my consent?”

She shook a little, even though she tried to hide it. However, someone as ruthless and twisted as Bruce noticed. “I’m not sure what you’re talking about.”

He tapped his knuckles against her forehead, making her flinch. “I thought this brain of yours was one of the best!” He pulled back and playfully tutted at her. “That recent story you did was very, very interesting.” Sarcasm laced his words; he didn’t care for her work one bit.

Prescilla looked up at him with confusion, breaking her perfect face. “The one about the city fucking with money?”

“Who do you think moves the city’s money about?” His voice was deep and cold, like a dragger tracing your skin and slightly cutting as it went.

She backed up finally. “Mr Redwood, forgive me, I didn’t know.”

He walked closer, making her back up towards the wall as he spoke. “Didn’t know? Shows your skills are slipping. Before, you cared about your work, but now you just take from others. If this is from someone else, then tell me who.”

Her back slammed against the wall. “Mr Redwood.”

He launched at her like a snake attacking its prey, his hand wrapping tightly around her neck, veins popping due to his strength, while more hair slipped from the product’s grip. “I have no patience for people who mess around with me.”

She gasped your name before wincing. “She dropped it as soon as she told me.” She kicked her legs in the air, her heels dropping off her feet. “I think she knows I steal people’s work. She set me up!”

Bruce shook his head. “Impossible. I know about everyone here. She’s not smart or brave enough to do that. She just thought she was helping people. She’s a pure little thing untainted by this city. A boring, insignificant bug.” He dropped Prescilla to the floor before wiping his hand clean with a handkerchief. “Waste of time.” He gave her a side glance. “Drop this story.”

You pulled away from the bookshelf and shot back to your table with your work. You gripped your massive headphones and shoved them on. You made sure your music was loud, so if he walked over to your area, he’d hear your music just a tiny bit. You shoved books in your bag before getting out some papers and opening them to random points, ensuring all the stories were old.

As you started working and making notes, a dark, heavy presence came over you; it was overbearing, like you were a little bunny minding your business, and a wolf was watching. You didn’t react at all, you kept working, pretending you were pure and innocent just as he believed you to be. After a peaceful moment, you saw his perfect hand place on the desk before your eyes on a book, his nails shining from work he must have had done to them.

You watched him drag the book away slowly, as if he was making a point. You looked up and stared at Bruce as he lifted the book with one hand and read the article. He began speaking, but you heard nothing due to the music. He smiled sweetly at you; this seemed almost real, and no wickedness behind his gaze. He reached up with his other hand and pointed to his ear.

You yanked your headphones off and smiled. “Sorry!” You lightly laughed. “Was in the zone!”

He looked down at the book. “This is about the old beach festival. I believe this was the last ever one.”

You hummed as you fiddled with your pen. “Yeah, it’s a real shame they stopped doing it. I was thinking of doing an article about this city’s past. I’m going to show the amazing things we do now. We’ve progressed a lot, but this festival is the only big loss.”

He tossed the book down before sitting on the edge of your table, his thigh close to your arms. “I remember going there as a kid. Shame it’s gone.”

You gasped in pure delight. You were always good at winning people over, you interviewed, and you were surprised it was working on the monster of the city. “You went to it!?”

He chuckled. “I did.” He pressed the end of your nose. “You’re not from here, are you?”

You shook your head. “Moved here a year ago.”

He narrowed his eyes at you. “What’s your name?”

“What’s yours? I don’t recognise you.”

He smirked a bit. “Bruce Redwood.” He was waiting for you to flinch or show fear, but nothing happened. Now, you were a very interesting woman to him “Your name, pet?”

He felt his heart race when you gave him your name. You were the little bug he couldn’t give two shits about. Perhaps he was wrong? You looked like a cute, fluffy little bird, like a shima enaga. Ms Chambers had led him to believe you were this lowly thing in the company, but you were an adorable vision to him. He’d seen so many sexy and confident women all his life; they were all the same. Never before had be met someone so delicate and adorable. He couldn’t help but laugh at how you’d instantly soothed his rage and madness; all the screaming voices and pleas for mercy that haunted him were no more. Maybe you were his cure.

You pouted a little. “My name's not that funny.”

He cleared his throat. “Forgive me, I didn’t mean to offend. I was just thinking.”

You closed your books and began returning them. “Well, you should be more careful before you act and speak.”

He watched you like a snake ready to strike. You had a darling figure, it was all curves and plumpness, not the usual type he’d go for and yet you stirred something within him so strongly that he could feel a twitch in intimate places; he just hoped you didn’t see the growing tent below. “Tell me off now, huh?”

You turned to him, even sitting on the table, he towered over you. “Is there a rule against it?”

He snatched your hand and petted it with his other. “No.” He smiled at you before looking down at your hand in his. You felt cold to the touch, even though it was a hot summer day. The rings you wore were cute and simple; the bracelet was too. To him, it screamed you were lower-class. Normally, he would be sickened at touching someone so poor, but all he wanted to do was touch you more.

“Could I get my hand back?” You tugged your hand, but he held on. “I’m heading home.”

He lifted your hand to his lips and gently touched it. You smelled so good, like pomegranates. “Pomegranates.”

“Oh, it’s my perfume.” You shook your hand free, gathered your things up and smiled. “Nice meeting you.”

“Allow me to walk you home.”

You dialled Li Chen; thankfully, he picked up right away. “No need, my friend is.” You lifted your phone to your ear. “Li! Hey, I’m ready now, let’s go home.”

Li said your name. “What are you on about?”

You hurried away from Mr Redwood, but he was so fast on his long legs that it was impossible to escape. “I’m just coming out of the archive room now. Sorry, I was there for so long.”

“You’re only leaving now? It’s rather late.”

You adjusted your skateboard. “I know, I know, I’m sorry.”

Bruce grabbed your board and bag. “Allow me.”

“Thank you, Mr Redwood.” You made sure to say that loud and clearly.

Li said your name with such panic and concern. “You need to get away from him, now.”

“So, will you be a few minutes?”

He understood you were trying to play it cool. “I’ll drive there to you. I should be about ten minutes.”

“Lovely! I’ll wait in the lobby. See you soon.” You put your phone away and smiled at Bruce. “He’s so grumpy when things aren’t in order.”

“He’s rather like me.”

You smiled at him. “You know, I don’t know why Li is friends with me. I’m like a little ball of chaos.” You looked away from him. “I’m messy and far from organised. I think he just tolerates me.”

Bruce moved closer to you, but you didn’t move; you just looked up at him with your beautiful eyes. “Sometimes a bit of chaos is exciting.” He held your chin and tugged your head a little as his eyes searched yours. “What are you doing to me?”

You frowned a bit. “What do you mean?”

He gripped your jaw, his hand covering your mouth. “You’re cute like a shima enaga. I just want to destroy you, but also adore and care for you.” He felt a light tapping on his wrist; it was you slapping him. “Ah, sorry.”

You rubbed your cheeks as you pouted. “You gripped really hard.”

He noticed marks on your cheeks. Normally, he didn’t care, but this time he did. “Sorry.”

“You should be more mindful of others.” You slipped out of the lift and moved to the lobby. You dropped into a seat and smiled at Bruce. “Thank you for carrying my things.”

He placed your things down on the coffee table. “You’re welcome.” He sat down opposite you and pushed his hair back into place. “I’ll keep you company.”

You moved your belongings closer to you. “That’s very kind of you.”

He leaned his cheek on his hand. “I’m a kind person.”

You placed your board across your lap and gripped it tightly. “Good to know.”

He covered his mouth with his hand to hide his twisted smile. “You don’t know who I am, do you?”

You shrugged. “You’re a CEO or something.”

“I suppose so.” Silence filled the room; the two of you didn’t talk much after that. Bruce was just studying you.

Li walked at a fast pace over to you. “Here you are.”

You stood up and smiled. “Here I am. Sorry again.”

“It’s fine.” He grabbed your bag. “Let’s get you home.”

“Thanks!” You waved to Bruce. “Thank you for the company.”

He waved. “You’re welcome.”

You walked with Li out of the building and felt like Bruce had followed. You whispered before Li could talk. “I can’t wait to get home! I’m starving.”

Li unlocked his car and let you in. He glanced over to the front of the building to see that Bruce was standing in the front courtyard of the building. Li waved to Bruce before rushing to his side and driving off. “Almost out of view.” He released a sigh when he couldn’t see Bruce. “We’re good.”

You shook hard before sobbing into your hands. “Fuck! I was so fucking scared. I had to lie to him.” You looked over at Li. “Li, Prescilla threw me under the fucking bus!”

“What? How could she?”

You sat back and cried. “I was so scared facing him. I thought he was going to kill me.”

“Why didn’t he?”

You looked over at Li. “He said I was cute.”

Li glanced over. “Cute? That’s it? That’s all it took to protect you?”

You nodded. “Yeah.”

“Good job, you’re so cute.” He tapped his thumbs against the wheel as you sniffled. “Want to stay over tonight?”

“I can do that?”

“Yes.”

You smiled softly. “Thank you.”

Meeting Bruce had shaken you, but it didn’t stop your determination. There was corruption only light where you worked, but it was worse elsewhere. Instead of risking your safety, you decided to walk around the city and take photos of locations you knew had corruption inside. You had opted against skateboarding around and just walk in light summer things instead. It was a nice day, not as hot as other days, and the breeze was enjoyable.

You were in front of the large shopping centre, which was spacious with a glass roof, and the middle was covered in flowers and trees. Doors were pulled wide open so air could flow through in the summer months, but when winter hit, it was closed up to keep people warm. You truly loved the place, but it sucked knowing that there was a lot of corruption that had infected the place.

You raised your camera and adjusted the focus before taking multiple pictures. You lifted your head a little before moving and looking back down, and taking more pictures. You shifted the camera and looked down at some of the pictures. As you cycled through them, you noticed Levi was in a few. The more you went through the pictures, the more you saw that he was looking at you and moving closer to you.

“Taking pictures of me now?”

You flinched at Levi’s voice. You looked up at him and felt your cheeks burn at seeing the attractive man. You tried to speak, but Levi grabbed the camera from you and began looking through the pictures. You gulped hard. “I was taking pictures of the shopping centre.”

Levi tugged you against him, held up the camera and took pictures of the two of you. He lowered the camera and checked. “Much better. I prefer this.” He looked down at you. “Do you?”

“Do you do this with every woman?”

“No, just you.” He placed your camera in your hands and leaned closer, making you tingle. “I already told you, I’m a big fan.”

Your eyes widened at hearing the information; it meant Levi had intentionally approached you days ago. “You knew who I was when we met?”

“I did.”

You gripped your camera. “Stalker.”

“A little bit.” He looked at his watch. “Have you had lunch?”

“No?”

He lowered his arm and locked eyes with you. “I’ll treat you.”

You put your camera in your bag. “Can’t help but think this might be a trap.” You looked at him. “Maybe I’ll go, and you’ll lock me up in a room and never let me go.”

“If you’ll allow it.” He smiled as you stared at him. “It’s a very cute room.”

You pouted a bit. “Weirdo.”

“I am.”

You looped your arm around his. “To lunch then.”

He walked with you. “You’re not bothered that I could lock you up?”

“Well, it’ll be comfy, you’ll feed me, it’ll be warm, and I’m pretty sure you wouldn’t touch me unless I asked for it.”

He purred as he leaned closer and patted your hand. “Hearing you say yes to me will be an honour and a pleasure.”

“You’re a secret perv.”

He pulled his arm from your grip before wrapping his arm around you and holding you close. “I am.”

You stumbled around with him. It surprised you at how he was with you because you were pretty sure he was a deadly man. However, compared to your time around Bruce, you felt very safe and comfy with Levi. It wasn’t because he was incredibly attractive and just your type, but he just had a soothing, nice aura about him.

You smiled a little and cuddled up to Levi. You rather liked being close to him and thought that maybe dating him would be good. “Levi?”

He pulled a chair out for you. “Yes, little bunny?”

You sat down and smiled. “So, is this a date?”

He took his jacket off to show you his muscular body in his tight shirt. “It is.” He sat down and took your hand. “I’ve been desperate to get you.”

You leaned your cheek on your hand. “You like me that much?”

He took your hand and began kissing it all over. “I’ve admired your work for a long time. I’ve looked into you, and I admire the life you have lived.”

You frowned a little. “You really did stalk me.”

He kissed your wrist a little. “Yes.”

“You don’t know about me fully. You might not like all of me.”

He massaged your hand. “I don’t think I could hate or dislike you.”

You picked up the menu and looked it over. “Looks pretty good here.”

Levi released your hand and checked his menu. “Mm, it’s a favourite of mine.”

You placed the menu down. “Well, if it’s a favourite, then what would you recommend?”

“You trust me?”

“Li told me that even though you do bad things, you can be trusted and you’re good.” You sighed. “I know about two bad people in this city who are ruining it, but you’re never mentioned in that mix.”

He gave the waiter the order before speaking to you. “So, because I wasn’t linked to Bruce Redwood and Ava Evergreen, you thought I could be trusted?”

You released a long sigh. “All I know is, people say you mean well. You’re like a vigilante, you do bad things to help others.”

He reached over and caressed your cheek. “You’re so cute.”

You pulled your head from his touch as you went pale. “Mm.”

There was a slight pain etched on his face. “Did I offend you?”

You released a long sigh before telling Levi all about meeting Bruce. “I guess hearing I’m cute brought it all back.”

“This is concerning.” He looked over at you to see that you were scared. “Don’t worry, okay? I’ll protect you. Hopefully, he will lose interest in you.” He leaned over. “Besides, I would like you to be mine.”

You locked eyes with Levi. “It would be more fun if you said I am yours.”

“Flirting with a criminal is dangerous.”

“I know.” You hummed a laugh. “I’ll keep doing it.”

“With others?”

You shook your head. “Nope. Only you.”

Chapter Text

You pulled out your phone and checked the messages from your manager. The man had been reluctant to help with your investigation, mainly because you weren’t Prescilla. After much persuasion and evidence that you’d already gathered plenty of information, he relented and got you a ticket to an event at the casino. This event and location were perfect opportunities to meet the very people who controlled the city. You needed to be here. So, you were dressed up in a cocktail dress, looking your best, ready to meet people or listen in on important information.

You showed your ticket to a man at the door before slipping into the casino. Once inside, you felt overwhelmed, and a dark voice in your head screamed at you to leave, that you didn’t belong, that you were way out of your depth. The place sparkled with diamonds, classical music played, and everyone was dressed in expensive clothes, while you felt cheap. People were gambling, laughing, and getting drunk, but you were standing around like an extra, unwanted and unnecessary.

Just as you were about to walk, an arm slipped around you, and your lower back was held firmly before you were yanked against a solid body. Your heart raced as a calming scene washed over you. The chest pressed against yours was hot, firm, and solid. Your eyes traced the fine form until you stopped to see that Levi was the one holding you so closely.

A cute pout appeared on your face. “You.”

Levi smiled. “We meet again, little bunny. I can’t help but think that you’re a stalker of mine. You always know where I am.”

“I’m the stalker? You’re always where I am. You’re the stalker.”

He leaned closer, his lips almost touching yours, making you go quiet and your heart throb with desire. “I am.”

Heat rushed through you. “Huh?”

“I’m stalking you. You should know that.” He caressed your cheek before playing with your hair. “I knew who you were when we met at the newsstand.”

You cupped his face and squished his plump cheeks. “You’ve been reading my work for a long time.”

“I have. I find your work so majestic. You connect to the people and really get into the story, you hold nothing back, but you’re respectful.” He let out a long sigh. “I adore it.”

“Th-thank you. So…”

He leaned and whispered into your ear. “Coming here alone is dangerous. A lot of men will snatch you up.” He kissed your ear. “I’ll make sure you get all the information you want. I can even get you into places you could only dream of.” He pulled back. “So?”

Your eyes sparkled in delight. “Please.”

He hummed. “Then it’s decided. I’ll help you.” He guided you as he walked. “To protect you, we’ll pretend you are my girlfriend.”

You cleared your throat. “I’m not wearing a good dress. I can buy a better one.”

He eyed you. “You look incredible, but if you want a more expensive dress, I can get you one.”

You gasped before shaking your head. “No, no, I’m okay. This will do. You like this, so I’ll keep it.” You cleared your throat. “Besides, I don’t want to owe you more than I already do.”

“You owe me?”

You nodded. “For doing this for me.”

He hummed in thought. He was doing this because he wanted to, and he even suggested it, but having you owe him something sounded fun. “So much power.”

You poked his cheek. “Don’t let it get to your head.”

He turned his head, bit your finger and swiped his tongue over the top of your finger. He pulled back and smiled. “You’re talking to a powerful and dangerous man.”

“I’m not afraid of you.”

He leaned closer and noticed you push your lips a bit and tilted your head a little. You were expecting a kiss. He tilted his head and bit your neck. “Mm.”

You slapped his upper arm. “Levi, behave.”

He pulled back. “I’m just showing my girlfriend some love.”

You released a long sigh and leaned against Levi. This all seemed so perfect, and the idea of being Levi’s seemed nice. “Ah, I should start my investigation.” You pulled from Levi as you reminded yourself you couldn’t get too close to him. “I think I know what to do.”

Levi held your hand and pulled you back. “Stick with me.” He looked down at you. “Teasing aside, this is very dangerous. I believe in you; you’re powerful, but these people are not like those you’re used to facing. They can and will kill.” He moved you to a table where people were betting. “What I’m worried about is someone snatching you up because you’re adorable.”

You locked eyes with him. “You.” You frowned a bit to see he was serious. “You think someone could kidnap me?”

He nodded. “Yes, and the women will try to kill you. You’re a threat to them.”

“I’ll stick with you. Thank you.”

Initially, you were focused on learning how to play. It was fascinating to watch Levi; he was so skilled. The guests around the table relaxed and started talking to Levi. As they relaxed more, they began discussing business. They shared so much information that you felt overwhelmed. It was a lot to absorb, but all of it was valuable. These individuals had exploited numerous bars, clubs, hotels, restaurants, and businesses; some appeared to have good relations with gangs and the mafia, but it all felt somewhat unfair — they held all the power, while the actual owners had very little.

You felt quite sad that this place was so corrupt. You’d been sold a dream, a cheap one that had now been shattered; even the woman you looked up to at work was compromised. A large part of you wanted to abandon your story, pack up your belongings, and move to a small town. People had warned you that city life could be tough. You felt conflicted—you wanted to quit, but you enjoyed your job and believed that uncovering the truth was important. A question circled in your mind: was this worth it?

“Hey.” Levi’s concerned voice snapped you out of your thoughts. “Are you okay?” He wiped your tear. “You’re crying.”

You hummed. “Y-Yeah, just thinking. I’m uh…”

“The casino has a lovely garden in the middle of it.” He leaned and kissed your temple. “It’s relaxing and you can get some air.”

You felt touched that this man understood you so well. “Thank you.”

“If you need me, scream my name.”

You smirked a bit. “I bet you’d love that, me screaming your name.”

He smirked at you as he slipped his hand over your bum. “Oh, sweet bunny, I could get you screaming my name for hours if you let me.”

You could see Levi was going for a kiss, so you placed your fingers on his lips, making him smile. “Another time.”

“Oh?” He purred at you. “I expected you to say in my dreams.”

“Well, maybe one day I might want to see what you can do. Not every day there’s a slightly insane, handsome and dangerous man who craves me, respects me, idolises me and adores me.” You kissed the corner of his mouth. “You’re a wonderful man, Levi Ackerman. Naughty, but wonderful to me.”

Levi lightly touched where you kissed. He said your name before you walked away. “You have no idea what you mean to me.”

You waved to him and stepped outside to the garden at the centre of the casino. The air was warm and uninviting; there was a thick humidity that only a good fan or air conditioning could fix. You appreciated the Chinese garden theme of the place, as it brought a sense of peace, and everything was so perfectly arranged and pretty. The gentle sloshing of the water made all your worries wash away.

“Here she is, the whore who stole Levi.”

You slowly turned your head to see a woman leading a group. She was a spoiled rich girl who married for money, not for love. To her, Levi was the perfect package because he was young, attractive, wealthy, and influential. Levi and Bruce were the bachelors of the mafia world; Levi was preferred because Bruce was so unstable and psychotic. Levi was the best choice, and it annoyed these women that someone like you, a nobody, emerged from nowhere and took him. You needed to play the part.

You folded your arms and turned to face her. “Yes, here I am. The whore of Levi. How can I help?”

She threw her red wine on your dress. “Oh…soooo sorry, it was an accident. Maybe you should go home.”

You smirked. “Nah, I’ll just get my man to order me a nicer dress. He’s more than happy to buy me anything I want.”

“You should know you’re place, bitch.”

“Listen, Regina George.”

She snarled. “You!”

You put your hand up. “I know it’s so confusing. How can a girl like me get a guy like him when the city is full of you ladies?”

She smiled. “Right, but my name isn’t-.”

“The thing is, he is with me because this city is full of ladies like you.” You eyed them all. “Greedy and selfish women who desire money and power with no ability to love.”

“How dare you!” She moved closer. “Do you know who I am!?”

You wiggled your pinkie in your ear. “Your voice is so loud and annoying.” You released a long sigh. “Listen, Regina George.”

“Stop that!”

“I’m not into this whole jerk circle situation where you all rub each other's vaginas and celebrate,” you wiggled your body to fake excitement as you mocked them. “Oh my god, we got the poor girl. Yaas!” you stopped and laughed hard. “It’s a bloody joke. Instead of being a bitch to me, why don’t you help out girls like me, huh? The men use and hurt many of the women brought into this world. Help them instead of adding to the hell they live in.”

She raised her hand. “Fuck you!”

You caught her hand and slapped her. “I won’t let you touch me.”

She screamed. “You lot! Get her!”

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you," Levi’s voice said, his smart shoes tapping on the floor as he walked to your side. He slipped his arm around you. “I am so proud of you, my love bunny, for fighting back. I watched you for a while, but ganging up on her?” He caressed your cheek. “I cross the line.” He turned your head when the women pleaded for mercy. “Keep looking at me, bunny. Don’t worry about that lot, okay?”

You walked with Levi back into the casino. “You’re not going to hurt them, are you?”

He shook his head. “No, I’ll just make sure they remember that no one hurts what is mine.” He took you to the shopping centre at the casino. “Let’s get you a nice dress. You wear red wine really well, but I want to play dress up”

You hummed a laugh. “You’re smart with your words.”

“It’s how I managed to become a leader of a powerful group.”

You petted his head. “Good boy.”

He groaned. “Careful, bunny.”

“Why?”

He ran his hands up your hips. “You’re poking the bear.”

You pressed the end of his nose. “Poke.”

“Naughty girl.”

“I am.” You pulled away from him and looked around at the dresses. “These are lovely.”

“Pick any you want.”

After a little fashion show and Levi praising you, you chose one that fitted you perfectly. “This one.”

He lifted his phone. “Post.”

You blushed a little and posed as best as you could. “Like this?”

He took a few photos and smiled. “Perfect.” He looked at his watch. “It’s rather late. Do you want to continue?”

You hummed in thought. “You’ve given me a lot to work with. Thank you.” You walked up to him. “I think home is best.”

“I’ll ask my driver to take you.” He held you close and escorted you to a car waiting. “Make sure she gets home safely.”

His driver nodded. “Yes, boss.”

Levi helped you into the car. “Take my number.”

You tapped his number into your phone and read out yours. “Thank you again.”

“If you need anything, let me know.”

You gripped your phone tightly and nodded. “Promise.”

He took your hand and kissed it. “See you soon.”

Ever since your night with Levi, he’d been on your mind. You’d added notes to your story plan, but the handsome mafia leader was infecting your very soul to the point that your dreams, thoughts and daydreaming involved him and naughty things with him. If Levi knew you were having spicy dreams about him, he’d tease you to no end.

You put your head in your hands and sighed. “I can’t like him.”

“Like who?” Li questioned. “Better not be Bruce.”

You could see the deep concern he had. “It’s not him. Levi Ackerman.”

Li’s perfect brow raised. “Still not an ideal person to hold affection for.”

You leaned your cheek on your hand. “Which is why I said I can’t like him.”

“I suppose he is better than Bruce.”

You hummed as you looked at your notes. “Levi also helped me with my investigation.”

Li looked at your notes. “Impressive.”

“Right? He’s amazing. He got me full access and made people relax around me and open up.”

“I think you should request his assistance further.” He pulled his glasses off and began cleaning them. “He seems like a good man to you.”

“He is.” You frowned when your desk phone rang with the reception number. “Huh.” You lifted the receiver and announced your name. “How can I help?”

“Hi, sorry to bother you.” The receptionist seemed nervous. “I have Mr Redwood in reception. He understands he doesn’t have a meeting booked with you, but he would like to see you.”

You gripped the phone and went cold as Bruce’s cold twisted gaze came to mind. “O-Oh, well, I have prior engagements booked. Could you let him know?”

“Of course.” They covered the phone, causing the talking to be muffled. “He has asked if there is any chance at all he could see you?”

“I’m sorry, I’m booked.”

Voices were muffled again, followed by them shouting. “Wait!”

Bruce sighed down the phone and sang your name. “Are you avoiding me?”

You glanced over at Li. “Maybe I am. A woman like me can grow tired very easily of handsome men.” You knew a playful and honest approach was needed for him.

Bruce chuckled. “Dear me, that is not good.”

“Blame your face and body for this.”

He laughed harder. “Well, you’re a woman with great taste.”

“I know.”

Li reached over and gripped your wrist. “I’m here. You’re doing really well.”

Bruce called your name. “Are you really busy?”

“I am.” You shivered. “I have a full day. I have a new story I’m working on, so it’s taking over my life.”

“Shame. I miss you.”

“I’m a hard-working woman.”

He hummed a laugh. “You’re something special.”

“I’m just a normal woman.” You glanced up to see Prescilla approaching you. “Prescilla, hi. Give me a moment.”

She folded her arms. “Fine.”

“Sorry, Bruce, I have to go. Prescilla requires me for a meeting.”

Bruce growled a little before muttering under his breath. “Typical needy bitch.” He called your name. “Don’t worry, okay? I can wait for you.”

“Bye, Bruce.” You placed the phone down and smiled at Prescilla. “How can I help?”

She eyed you. “I am curious about your next piece, that’s all. I wanted to offer my help.”

You smiled at her. “Oh, that’s nice of you to offer, but I’m okay.”

“Are you sure?” She pressed. “I can give you guidance.”

“Again, thanks, but I have a few people helping.”

She slammed her hand on your desk and leaned over you. “Who?”

Li rose to his feet. “Me. She also has a contact who’s helping her.”

“Who’s the contact?” She eyed your phone to see a text had been received and you’d made their name a wolf. “Wolf?”

You pulled your phone closer. “Yes.” You read Levi’s text and smiled at his cute message. You replied to him. “Is there anything else?” You looked up at her. “I have a lot of research to do, and my contact wants to arrange a meeting.”

She grabbed your lanyard and yanked you closer. “You! You think you’re the new hot shit, huh? I’m the star of this place. ME. I’d rather have all my Botox sucked out of me than let some silly bitch like you beat me.” She snarled at you. “Give me your notes. I want your story.”

“Kiss my ass.”

She released you, raised her hand and went to slap. “You little!”

Li grabbed her hand. “Stop.” He tugged her arm down. “People are looking. If you keep going, you’ll ruin your reputation more.”

“I will not be replaced.”

“Then work harder.” He released her. “Show us how good a reporter you are.”

She glared at you. “I will beat you.” She backed up when the receptionist appeared with a bouquet in a vase. “Those must be for me.”

The receptionist shook their head. “No, sorry.” They placed it on your desk and said your name. “They’re for you.”

You raised a brow. “From?”

“Mr Redwood. He’s in reception, still hoping he’ll bump into you.”

You whined a bit as you stared at the flowers. “Oh…thank you for taking care of him.”

“No problem.”

Prescilla stared at the flowers for a while before grabbing them. “I’m sure he meant them for me!”

The receptionist watched her walk off with them to her private office. “Not good…”

You released a long sigh once the receptionist was gone. “Thanks, Li.”

Li sat next to you. “She’s jealous of you; you can see it.”

“I know it’s because I’ve caught Bruce’s eye. I don’t want his attention.” You looked up when you heard Prescilla shouting in her office. “I think Bruce knows she took the flowers.”

Prescilla stormed over and slammed the flowers down. “Here!”

After a while, the receptionist returned with more gifts. “From Mr Redwood.”

You sighed. “Could you get him to call my desk phone?”

“Sure.”

You put your head in your hands for a while. “What a mess.”

Li rubbed your back. “Maybe you should message Levi.”

“Maybe.” You looked up at your desk phone as it rang. “I don’t know how to stop this man. I’ve pushed him away.”

“That’s possibly why he’s interested.”

You groaned. “I think that too.” You picked up the phone. “Bruce.”

He sang your name. “Do you like my gifts? I can send more!”

“Please, stop sending the gifts.”

“You don’t like them?” His voice was a little dark.

You sighed. “It’s a lot. It’s too much. Prescilla is pissed off at me, and others are unhappy.”

He gripped the phone, making it groan. “How dare they all. I’ll go up there and-.”

“Please, just go home. I’m very busy.”

“Let me take you on a date.”

“No.” You nibbled your lip. “I’ve made it clear to you before, I’m not interested.”

He sighed your name. “Sweetness. What can I do to win your heart and affection?”

“Nothing.” The silence after your answer was scary; a part of you thought he was going to kill you. You had to break the moment. “I…”

“It’s okay!” He chuckled. “I’ll make you like me! Every woman loves me. I’ll get you to love me.”

“Bruce.”

“I’ll go home for now. I’ll see you another day. Bye!”

You slammed the phone down. “Not good.”

Li rubbed your back. “You should head home.”

You hummed and rose to your feet. “Yeah.” You packed your bag and left the building. However, when you reached your home, it was surrounded by gifts. “Fuck…” You pulled out your phone and called Levi. “Levi?”

“Bunny, hello. What do I owe the pleasure?”

You gripped your phone as you told him what happened. “I just…he knows where I live. I want to go home, but I can’t because…I…help me.”

“Stay where you are.”

“Okay.” You saw the call ended, leaving you alone with your thoughts. Why did you call Levi? You could have gone to a hotel, or even asked Li to stay like you’d done before. Something within you told you that Levi was safe. “Levi.”

“Yes?”

You flinched at hearing his voice. You turned to see him walking closer. “Levi?”

He smiled at you. “That’s me.”

“You came?”

“You asked for help.” He looked at your home and the gifts. “Fuck me, he went overboard, huh?” He heard a little sob, causing him to look at you. He softly called your name as you cried. “It’ll be okay. I’ll make sure of it.” He picked you up. “Come here.”

You hugged Levi. “Sorry.”

He carried you to his parked car. “Don’t be sorry. You have nothing to be sorry about.” He placed you in the back of his car and climbed in next to you. He held you as he gave his driver instructions. “Bruce is a piece of shit. I’ll keep you safe from him.”

You cuddled up to Levi. “I don’t want you to get hurt.”

“I won’t. I’m tougher than you think.” He pinched your cheek. “He can’t touch me.” He held you against him. “Sleep. I’ll look after you.”

You slowly closed your eyes. “Mm. Yes, Levi. Thank you.”

Seeing you sleeping so peacefully in his bed made Levi very happy; you were meant to be there. He sat on the edge of the bed and played with your hair as he admired you. He felt like he could just devour you. Bruce's obsession with you gave him mixed feelings—he was worried that you weren’t safe and might be taken, but at the same time, it meant you had come to him.

He leaned closer and kissed your cheek. “You are precious.”

You inhaled and opened your eyes to see Levi close to you. You smiled and wrapped your arms around his neck before pulling him down onto you. “Mm, cuddles.”

Levi blushed as he felt every inch of you. “Bunny.”

“Shh, tired.”

Levi smirked. “You’re going to be so embarrassed and flustered when you fully wake up.” He shifted on the bed and held you close. “You’re too cute.”

You snuggled up to Levi and felt so relaxed and safe. You slowly opened your eyes again and felt your heart skip a beat. You sat up quickly and looked down at Levi. “Levi!”

He moved an arm behind his head and hummed as he looked up at you. “You pulled me into bed.”

You pouted a little. “I would never.”

“You asked for cuddles.”

You nibbled your lip when you remembered how you’d been in a sleepy state. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be sorry, I liked it.” He reached up and caressed your cheek. “You can cuddle with me whenever you want.”

You reached over and pinched his cheeks. “Bet you’d like that, huh?”

He laughed as you wiggled his face. “I would.” He held your wrists before turning his head and kissing the back of your left wrist. “Did you sleep well?”

“I did.” You shuffled closer to him as he nuzzled your hand. “Thank you for this.”

“You’re welcome. I’m more than happy to keep you safe and close.” He eyed your stomach when it growled. “Hungry?”

“Damn stomach.” You pouted a little. “Yeah, I am a bit.”

“I’ll get you some breakfast.”

You watched Levi leave the room, now you were left with your our thoughts and feelings. It was embarrassing that you’d cuddled up to him so tightly, but he was so soothing to your feelings and worries. It was impossible to deny that there was a connection between the two of you, but you were a reporter, and you were finding out information about people like him. You were so torn on what to do.

“Bunny?”

Hearing his sultry voice in your ear made you flinch. “Huh? Yes?”

Levi smiled, knowing what he was doing to you. “I have clothes for you. They’re in my size, so I hope you don’t mind.”

“N-no.” You watched him go into his walk-in. “Thank you.”

He placed a shirt down and comfy trousers. “Don’t worry, I’ll get you clothes here. It’ll take me a day or two because we need to clear the mountain of gifts.”

You hugged the clothes against you. “Thank you. I appreciate this.”

He ruffled your hair. “You’re welcome. If you need anything else, let me know.”

“I will.”

“When you’re dressed, come on down. Breakfast is almost ready.”

You chewed on your lip. “I appreciate this all.”

“I’ll see you in a bit.”

You nodded and waited for him to leave before changing your clothes. You adored the clothes; they were soft and smelled just like Levi. “Mm.” You made your way through the mansion until you arrived at the kitchen to see that Levi was wearing an apron as he cooked breakfast. “Levi?”

He glanced over at you. A fire consumed him; you just looked incredible in his clothes. “Yes?”

“How do I repay you for all this?”

He plated up the large breakfast. “Hmm, a kiss would be nice.”

You moved closer to him. “Okay.”

He locked eyes with you. “I was teasing.”

“So, you don’t want a kiss?”

He eyed your lips. “Oh, I’d very much like one.” He pinched your cheek. “You need food, though. Sit and eat.”

You hummed and did as he asked. The food was divine, the flavours mixing perfectly, and it made you feel like you were being cuddled. “This is incredible. You’re such a good cook.”

He wiped the corner of your mouth. “I’m glad you like it.”

“I’ll have to cook for you as a thank you.”

“I look forward to it.”

You leaned over and gave him a small kiss on the lips. “Thanks.”

Levi sat in his seat, utterly shocked and in a happy bubble while you washed your things. He couldn’t stop thinking about kissing you again, filled with all the passion inside him, but he was going to hold back for now and keep teasing you. He wanted you to come to him. You were an incredible woman who worked hard and was trying to tell the city how corrupt it was. In your quest to uncover the truth, it meant discovering that Levi was behind some of the corruption. Levi’s group tried to be honest and good; they helped those in need and hurt bad people. However, he wasn’t free of blame—he had been violent towards those who dared to challenge him.

“Levi?”

He looked up at you. “Mm?”

You lightly touched under his eyes. “Are you okay? You look like something is bothering you.”

He leaned his cheek against your hand and closed his eyes for a moment. “I always have something on my mind, more so now that someone I care for has walked into my life.”

You crouched in front of him. “You’re a good man.”

“I’m not. I’ve done bad things, still do.” He released a long sigh. “I just hope you don’t hate me too much during your investigation.”

You took his hands and kissed them. “I trust you. Knowing you, you had to do things to protect others.”

“Yes.”

You leaned up, your lips close to his. “I believe in you. You’re good to me, and you’ve been good to others. As long as you don’t hurt innocent people, it’s okay.”

Levi kissed your cheek, causing you to close your eye and hum as he did. “You’re so sweet.” As he stood up, he pulled you to your feet. “Relax around my home. I have a few things to do for work. Call me if you need anything.”

You hugged Levi. “Have a good day and come back soon. Be safe.”

Levi squeezed you. “How can I not come back for you? You’re so cute.” He cupped your face. “After all, I’ve locked you up in my mansion.”

You felt your cheeks burn. “You have.”

He winked at you. “I’ll bring you something nice back.”

Chapter Text

The frantic clacking of a keyboard filled the office and drifted into the room. It had been going on for hours and was starting to take its toll on Levi. He had been pacing a lot and working on his phone while you occupied his office. Having you around was pure heaven; it was a dream come true, and he knew that his heart was slowly becoming yours. Levi wanted you to always live with him, but he knew that it wasn’t possible because his world was dangerous, and you deserved better.

Levi ended a call before coming to the office to see you in your comfy clothes, hair messily tied up and glasses on. His heart thumped at how wonderful it was to see you in your most relaxed and cosy state. He noticed you had your headphones on, so if he said your name, you wouldn’t hear. He moved closer until he was right behind you, looking down at your cute frame. He leaned over you and placed his hands on the desk, on either side of you.

You flinched a bit at seeing muscular, tattooed arms around you. You reached up and pulled your headphones off before turning your head to lock eyes with Levi. “A-Ah.” You felt your cheeks heat up. “Hello.”

“You’ve been working a lot.”

You gripped your headphones and nodded shyly. “I just want to get as much work done on my piece.”

He moved closer, his eyes locked with yours, and his lips almost touched yours. “You should rest. You’ve been working day and night.”

“I know, but I want to get this done.”

He studied you as the silence felt heavy before releasing a long sigh. “I’m supportive of this story, of you getting your big break.”

You turned in your seat so you could look at him better. “There’s a but.”

He tapped his forehead against yours. “I’m concerned for your welfare. My world is a dangerous one. You’re already being hunted right now by Bruce. When you release this report, you’ll be more at risk.”

You cupped his face and squished his cheeks. “Thank you for worrying about me, but I think I’ll be okay.”

“You don’t understand. This world you’re tapping into, it’s darker than you can imagine.” He took your hands off his face, his eyes becoming downcast as he softly spoke. “You could be killed, or worse.” He locked eyes with you. “You need to be careful.”

You gripped his hand. It was odd seeing him so serious, but it made it clear to you that you were at risk. “So, what would you suggest? Do I need protection?”

“It would be in your best interest.”

“I can fight back.” You lifted your fists. “I’m a tough cookie.” You let out a squeal when Levi quickly grabbed you, lifted you and slammed you against the desk. Your legs were open and around him while he held your neck and placed his other hand on the desk. “L-Levi.”

He leaned closer, making you lean back and arch your back. “Tough cookie, huh?”

You gripped his shirt to stop you from falling back. “Y-Yes.”

“All I see is a cute little bunny being cornered by a big, bad wolf.”

“N-no fair, you caught me off guard!”

He turned your head a little to the side so he could speak into your ear. “That’s what people are like in this world you so desperately want to be a part of.” He nibbled your earlobe, making you moan so sweetly. “You’ll be eaten alive.”

You felt pleasure shoot through you. “That a promise?”

Levi smirked. “Naughty bunny.” He pulled back a little to eye you. “Have you saved?”

You frowned a moment. “Saved?”

“Your work.”

You felt embarrassed. “Y-yes.”

He slapped the laptop closed before throwing you over his shoulder. “Good.”

You pushed on his back to try to lean up. “Levi!”

“This is my home. So, I’m laying down the law.” He chuckled as he threw you onto his bed. He saw you were about to speak, but fell silent as he crawled up the bed towards you. When your back was against the wall, he slammed his hand onto it and leaned over you. “Take off your bra.”

Your eyes widened. “Wh-what?”

He dragged your glasses off and placed them on the side table. “Take your bra off.”

“I um…well…ah…”

He locked eyes with you. “I can’t imagine it’s comfortable sleeping with one on.” He smirked a little. “Why, what were you thinking?”

You hit his chest a few times with your fists. “You are such a meanie!”

He chuckled before sitting back and holding your hands against his chest. “I’m terrible, we’ve already established this. Now, would you like to sleep in my clothes again?”

You nodded shyly. “Please.”

He shifted off the bed and gathered some clothes for you. “Here. When you wake up, I’ll get you something to eat.”

“Thank you.” You stared at him and didn’t move.

He raised a brow. “What’s wrong?”

“I need you to leave so I can get changed.”

He flinched. “Oh! You’re right.”

As soon as Levi left, you changed into his shirt and his shorts. You climbed into the massive bed and got comfortable. “Mm…have I been working that much?”

“You have.”

You jumped a little at Levi’s voice. “You’re back.”

He approached you slowly. “I’m making sure you sleep.”

“I’ll sleep.”

He sat on the edge of the bed at your side. “Sure, you said that before, and I found you at the desk in my office working.”

You pressed yourself against the bed as you whined. “I’ll sleep. I promise I’ll sleep this time.”

“I’ll watch over you.” He fixed your hair a bit before moving away and turning off the lights, but only leaving on a small light next to a chair. “I’ll be right here.”

“What about you?”

“What about me?”

You rolled onto your side and gazed at him. “You need sleep too.”

He smirked. “So, you want to share the bed with me, huh?”

You hid behind your blanket a little. “So? We’re both adults. It’s a big bed.”

He released a long sigh. “You’re right.” He changed into bottoms only, so he was in his shirtless glory. Muscles and tattoos covered his body, with a few scars dotting his kissable skin. He fixed his pillow before climbing in. “It’s been a while since I’ve slept in this bed.”

“Do you not like this bed? It’s so soft and comfy.”

Levi gazed up at the ceiling. “I’ve never gotten along with sleep. I often get nightmares; it just comes with the job.” He looked over at you. “You might get them if you keep this research up.”

You lay on your side facing him. “I think that no matter what path you choose in life, you’ll get nightmares. At least I know I’m not alone.” You pocked Levi’s cheek. “Unless you get fed up with me.”

He took your hand and kissed it. “I could never get sick of you.”

“Good.” You yawned a little. “Mm. I’m tired.”

“Ah, the cheeky bunny is actually going to sleep.”

You hugged his hand as you started falling asleep. “Mm…yeah…”

Levi caressed your cheeks and moved the hair from your face. “What a sweet thing you are.”

You smiled a little. “You wanna lock me up.” You tiredly opened your eyes. “You want me as a pet.”

He leaned closer. “Maybe I’ve already locked you up. This manor is a pretty cell.”

You laughed. “You’re funny.”

“You’re hugging my arm very tightly.”

You closed your eyes. “Sorry, I cuddle things in my sleep.”

Levi wrapped his arms around you. “Well, cuddle away.” He massaged his fingers in your hair as you softly slept. “So cute. I want to keep you.” He kissed the corner of your mouth, but you didn’t stir. He moved his lips to lightly brush yours. “If I had my way, I’d marry you and take you around the world. I’d help you investigate rival gangs so we can spread our power.”

Seeing the massacre in front of him broke Levi’s heart. He’d seen a lot of death, he’d seen torture, and he’d had a hand in it too, but nothing could have prepared him for what he was seeing. He’d been told to go to an upscale restaurant he owned, inside was a family and staff butchered and tortured by Bruce Redwood. Ever since you ‘disappeared’ on him, he’d lost control of his rage and hurt everyone in his path. He used tortured techniques that only a psychopath would use. Sensitive and fleshly parts were burned, he cut parts of them off, broke bones and moved the broken parts around.

On a nearby table was a twisted interpretation of a piece of art. Jaws, tongues, eyes, and other parts were assembled. In front of this bizarre take on art was a card bearing Levi’s name. He collected it and saw written in striking cursive, Give her back to me.

“Fuck.” A fear shot through him; he was after you, and he figured out you were hiding with him.

“Levi?” Mike called as he moved closer. “We need to talk in private.”

He eyed his men and saw they were upset, sick, nervous and angry. “Okay.” The two of them walked together to a more private part so they could talk. “Well?”

“I think you can tell the men are nervous.”

Levi released a long sigh. “I’m not letting her go.”

“Have you considered a safehouse?”

He shook his head. “I don’t think she’ll like it.”

Mike folded his arms. “Levi, I understand you have affection for her, and I like her too. I’ve enjoyed looking after her, so has Erwin, but your men are scared and if he’s doing this to get her…”

“I don’t want to put her at risk. She’s innocent in all this. All she’s doing is researching.”

“I understand.” Mike moved closer and placed his hand on Levi’s shoulder. “We all understand and adore her; she’s lovely, but you need to put her in a safehouse and let Bruce know you don’t have her. It’ll protect her and save the lives of many people who work for us.”

Levi released a long sigh as it all weighed down on him. “I want to keep her safe. I’ll move her now.” He pulled out his phone and began texting. “She’ll be upset for a while.”

“She’ll understand it’s for her own good.”

“I have to go organise this.” He left the building and got an update; his team were moving you, and you were upset and shocked. He informed them he’d not see you go; it’d be too much for the two of you. He drove to the safehouse and saw you on the balcony of your new home, crying. “Fuck.” He hung his head a moment before noticing your name showing up on his phone.

You sniffed when you heard Levi say your name. “Levi! What’s going on? Can’t I live with you anymore?”

“There’s been an incident, one that has made me concerned for your safety.” He sighed. “This is a safehouse. It’s secure, and you have a panic room.”

“But I want to be with you.”

He gripped his phone tightly. “I know.”

“You said you’d look after me.”

“I know.”

You sobbed. “You said you’d be there.”

“I know.” He sighed. “I know. I’m sorry.”

You hugged yourself. “What happened?”

“It’s best if you don’t know.”

“Levi, if this is linked to my investigation, then I need to know the risks.”

He leaned his head back and stared at the ceiling. “Bruce got a hold of some people.”

“Did he hurt them?”

Levi closed his eyes and saw the blood, the body parts and how young some of the victims were. “Yeah, yeah, he hurt them really bad.” He opened his eyes when you went quiet. “Are you okay?”

You whined. “Are you? I can’t imagine how horrible it must have been to see all that.”

He smiled sadly at how sweet you were being. “I’ve seen a lot of things over the years, but Bruce always finds a way to up his game.”

“He’s a sick man.”

He sternly said your name. “Stay away from him and try not to leave the safe house, you understand me?”

You hummed. “Promise.”

“Thank you.”

“Hey, Levi?”

“Mm?”

“That you down there in the fancy black car?”

He sent his window down and leaned out. “Yeah.”

You waved at him and smiled. “Is this the closest we can get?”

“For now.” He heard you crying. “Hey, hey, don’t cry. I know I’m ugly, but come on.”

You laughed. “Levi.”

“There, got you laughing. That’s better.”

You sniffed a little. “I’m gonna miss you.”

“Of course, you will.”

You huffed and pouted a bit. “You!”

He smirked. “I can tell you’re doing your adorable pout right about now.”

You leaned on the railing and stared over at Levi. “I am pouting. You’re mean to me even this far away.”

“It’s fun to tease you.”

You hummed a laugh. “I suppose I do snap back a lot.” You pulled a face as you considered your situation. “So, when can we be together again?”

Levi felt himself blushing at your words. “I’m not sure, but I’ll work hard. Bruce needs to back off.”

“I’m sorry.”

“What for?”

You got quiet and mumbled your words. “This is all my fault. I’m causing trouble.”

“It’s not your fault.”

“Levi, Bruce wouldn’t have done this if it weren’t for me.” You lowered your phone a little. “I think I’ll stop my investigation. I just…I’ll stop…”

Levi softly said your name. “Don’t give up. People need to know what he and others have done to this city.”

You pulled away from the balcony as your heart started to hurt and the tears formed. “I’m sorry, Levi. I’m just…I’m tired…”

Levi pulled the phone away from his ear when he heard you’d ended it. He called your name and looked up at the balcony. He was deeply concerned for your well-being. “Don’t give up, please.”

You curled up on the bed and felt pain; the pain was moving from your chest and spreading through your body. A tiredness washed over you, and your hunger vanished. All the confidence inside you had gone. It was like you were a shell of yourself. Depression had its nasty claws inside you, and it was going to be hard to escape it.

You sat up when you heard someone knocking at the door. You felt slight fear knowing this possibly could be Bruce. You moved to the door, looked into the peephole and felt your heart flutter. You tapped in the codes and yanked the door open to see Levi standing there.

You whimpered a little. “Levi? You said…you said we…that…and…”

He tackled you into a hug as he kicked the door closed, causing it to lock up tightly. “I was worried about you. The way you spoke, it concerned me.”

You gripped his back tightly as you cried against his chest. “Levi.”

He picked you up and carried you to the bed. He sat down and cuddled you closely as he played with your hair. “I’m sorry, this is upsetting. I strongly think you should keep going. People need to know what’s going on. I know it’s scary.” He looked down at you as you sniffed a bit and played with his shirt. “You’re protected here, okay? It means we have to be apart sometimes.”

“I’m confused.”

“About what?”

You rubbed your tears. “My feelings. I’m all mixed up.”

He held the back of your head and softly kissed your forehead. “You need sleep.”

“I don’t want to sleep.”

“Why not?”

You clung to him. “If I sleep, you’ll leave me. I don’t want to wake up without you.”

Levi chuckled. “You know, if I were a betting man, I would say you have a bit of a cute crush on me.”

You curled up and hid yourself from his prying eyes. “Don’t tease me.”

He tangled your hair around his fingers. “Forgive me, I was trying to lighten the mood. You should sleep.”

“But.”

He shuffled down the bed and held you against him. “I’ll sleep too.”

“What happens when I wake up and you’re not here?” You leaned up on his chest and looked down at him.

He caressed your cheek. “You’ll just have to look forward to when we meet again. I want you longing for me.”

You pouted and hit his chest. “You.”

He wrapped his arms around you. “I know, I know.” He hugged you tightly. “I’m very mean. I’ll make it up to you.”

You’d been locked up in the safehouse for a few weeks now. It wasn’t too bad; you’d been having fun with your gaming systems and working hard on your piece with any information Levi or Li sent you. Most of the time, you were alone; the only visitors you got were Li, Erwin, Mike, and the most frequently being Levi. Levi would even sit in his car and watch your place.

The urge to leave and get some fresh air was strong, but there wasn’t really anywhere you could go. It’d been a few days since you’d seen Levi, so the longing in your heart was strong. You checked your phone for updates from the handsome man, but there was nothing. It felt strange to have such a deep longing to be with someone.

A text came through on your phone; it was Zac, your colleague, who Prescilla fucked over. He was telling you about a meet-up location and that he had information for you that he was too scared to give over the phone. It was perfect. This meant you could get a big break in your research. Without even thinking, you packed up your things and raced out of the safehouse. This choice was not your best; in fact, it was probably the most stupid thing you’d done.

As you were making your way to the docks where all the important shipping came to, you felt a buzz inside you. Maybe Zac was going to show you some important illegal things, or possibly a deal was going down. Only one bright idea fluttered in your mind, you texted Levi where you were going. It was so exciting that this was happening, you didn’t even pay attention to the floods of messages Levi sent you because your phone was zipped up in your bag.

The heat had subsided, and summer was coming to an end. The wonderful seasons of Autumn and Winter were coming. All you could think about was finishing this report and then asking Levi out on a date. There had been a lot of teasing and tension between you and Levi; you wanted to chase it. Being with Levi meant staying in this dangerous world, but he was worth it.

When you arrived at the location, you were the only one there. You were happy to wait, but that didn’t stop your anxiety bubbling away. As time went on, you got more nervous and decided to pull your phone out. As soon as you did, you noticed the texts from Levi, but before you could read them, you heard your name called.

You looked up and noticed Zac looking pale and sickly. “Zac? Are you okay?”

He shuffled closer. “I ah, I’m fine.”

You moved a bit closer. “You don’t look well.”

“I’m good.” He cleared his throat. “You uh, you didn’t tell anyone you were here, right? You weren’t followed.”

You lied. “No one knows. I won’t put my report at risk.”

He released a long sigh. “Good.”

You flinched as cars raced over and pulled up, all sleek black ones with tinted windows. “What’s going on?”

Zac backed up. “I’m sorry, but he promised me good things. Prescilla ruined me, and he’s fixing it all for me.”

Your eyes widened as a driver opened a back door to the car and let out someone you wished would leave you alone. A deep dread consumed your heart and soul. Everything inside you told you to run. “Bruce…”

He fixed his blue blazer over his very low, open white shirt. “Here she is! You know.” He pushed his hair back, but a few strands fell like fallen horns. “You’re a hard woman to find.”

You shook a little. “I moved house.”

“Really? Is it nice? Maybe you should invite me over.”

You backed up from him. “I uh…”

He walked closer with a grin. “What’s wrong, little bird?”

You couldn’t stop shaking. “I…I’m not…I…” You gulped hard. “I’m not interested.”

Your words made him stop in his tracks. “What?”

“I’m not interested in you. I-I know you’ve been nice, b-but we’ve only m-met a few times. I uh.” You gripped your bag strap tightly. “I don’t know you.”

He was before you in the blink of an eye, his hands gripping yours as he smiled. “Well, we can get to know each other. Let’s go on a date!”

You yanked your hands free and backed up. “No, no, thank you.”

Bruce frowned. “I don’t understand.” He laughed a little. “I mean, I’m incredible! Every woman wants me.”

You backed up more, giving you plenty of space away from him. “I just…you’re not the man for me.”

“I’m not? I’m the perfect man, though.” He referred to himself. “Am I really not your type?”

You heard a motorbike getting closer. “You’re not.”

“Is there a way I can be? I mean, I don’t know if you can improve perfection.”

You shook your head as the motorbike was getting closer. “I’m sorry, you just aren’t for me.”

“I don’t understand.” He pushed his fingers in his hair, the madness in his blue eyes seeping in. “I don’t understand how a woman can not want me.”

You turned your head as a motorbike weaved around the cars and went straight for you. You flinched as it drove behind you, and the driver wrapped their arm around your waist, yanked you onto their lap and sped off. You gripped hold of the driver as Bruce screamed and jogged after you. You felt safe in the arms of the driver; they seemed familiar to you. It had to be Levi.

The bike came to a stop at a red light. They shoved up the guard to reveal your saviour was Levi. “Levi!”

He winked at you. “Hold on!”

You hugged him tightly. “Yes!”

He sped off again and took you to a large building with Levi’s men everywhere. He carefully placed you on your feet before yanking his helmet off. “You are one crazy bunny.”

You shook a little. “I…”

“I’m not mad.” He hugged you after placing his helmet down on the seat of the bike. “Just impressed and concerned.

You hugged him back. “I went to meet Zac. I trusted Zac.”

Levi picked you up and carried you to the lift past a lot of Levi’s gang, smirking as they eyed you together. “Some people will do anything for money.”

“I guess.”

He rubbed your back. “Thank you for telling me about the meeting. I’m glad I got to you in time.”

You felt your cheeks heat up as you remembered Levi driving up on his bike in full tight leather and just grabbing you. “You…um…”

“Looked good saving you and still look good?”

“How did you know?”

He hummed a laugh. “You’re a little flustered.” He helped you into a large apartment and placed you on the sofa. “I know you well.”

You hugged yourself as your cheeks burned. “Yeah, you do.” You looked around the room you were in. “Levi? Where are we?”

“My base.”

“Base?”

He nodded as he started pulling his leather off. “It’s safe here. After today, it’s clear I can’t leave you alone. My group will look after you when I can’t. There are guards twenty-four-seven.” He turned to you as he stood in his leather bottoms. “I know I just moved you to a safehouse, but things have changed.” He walked over to you, making your heart race. “I have to make sure you never leave me. I won’t let him have you.” He cupped your face. “You’re such a curious and brave bunny.”

You pocked his cheek. “Wolf.”

“I am.” He released your face. “I’m going for a shower; you can either join me or stay here, it’s up to you.”

You pouted a bit. “I’m not joining you, you perv.”

“Another time then.”

You let out a long sigh, but you didn’t relax because Levi had you on edge. “Damn it.” You picked up your phone and blocked Zac’s number. You tapped Li’s name and called him “Hey, Li.”

Li softly said your name. “Everything okay?”

“Zac worked with Bruce, and I almost got kidnapped.”

“Wait.” He sat up in his seat. “This is all strange. Prescilla fucked him over and is close to Bruce. Why would he work with Bruce?”

“Bruce promised him a lot.”

Li huffed. “Well, this is all fucked, huh?”

“Mm.”

“I’m sorry.”

You shrugged. “It is what it is. Please, don’t betray me.”

“I won’t, I swear.” He sternly said your name. “You know me, I can’t stand Bruce. I would never betray you, you’re my dear friend.”

You gripped your phone tightly. “I believe you and I trust you, but know that if you do, I will gut you.”

He laughed, taking you by surprise. He wasn’t one to laugh a lot, but it was always nice to hear him. “I believe that. Consider me warned.” He hummed. “You’re safe, right?”

“Yeah, Levi saved me.”

“Good. That makes me feel better.”

You lay on your side. “I’ve thought a lot about dropping this investigation.”

“Don’t.” He sternly said your name. “People need to know about what’s going on in this city.”

You hummed a laugh. “Levi said the same thing.”

“Well, he’s right.”

“He is.”

“So? Are you two a couple yet?”

You nibbled your lip. “No.”

“Why not?”

You glanced at the bathroom. “I…it’s me. I think…well…maybe he’s just playing around. He teases me often.”

“Mm, so you’re not sure if the teasing is flirting cause he likes you, or he’s just doing it to make you feel relaxed.”

“Or it’s all fun for him.”

“Right, right…”

You closed your eyes and sighed. “I don’t know what to do.”

“You could just kiss him.”

You thought about it, and it made your heart flutter. “A-ah.”

“I have to go, work call. Think about it, okay? Look after yourself.”

“Bye.” You put your phone down and stared at the ceiling. “Damn it.”

“My little bunny looks upset.” Levi walked closer, rubbing his wet hair with a towel on his hips. “Can I help?”

Normally, you’d freak out a little seeing him dripping wet and half-naked, but your brain was a loud mess. “I just need food and sleep.”

He walked over and crouched next to you, the towel holding on for dear life and hiding everything it could. “That bad, huh?”

You pocked his cheek. “You look good.”

“Thanks.” He took your hand and kissed it. “You look like a bunny goddess.”

You rolled onto your side. “Thank you.” You nibbled your lip. “Do you like bunnies?”

“I adore them.”

“Good.”

Chapter Text

“So, you like, set people on fire?” You smirked. “Beat them up? Take their toes?”

Mike tapped on his phone and told the person texting him not to call; he was busy with the boss’s wife. “You have the strangest ideas about the mafia.” He put his phone away. “This, you being a curious citizen, or being a curious reporter?”

“I choose not to answer.”

He pinched your cheek. “No wonder Levi likes you so much.”

You flapped your arms. “Ah, hurts.”

“Is it fun dating my boss?”

“Dating?” You looked away as you felt your body heat up. “I’m not dating Levi.”

Mike let out a long sigh. “Idiot.”

“Hey!”

He winked at you before pulling his phone out. “You should just kiss Levi. You two want each other.” He said your name and smiled. “I’m so sorry, I’ve got to take this.”

“It’s okay. I can have a wander around here.”

“Don’t go too far.”

You looked around the warehouse-like floor space and noticed people moving about, working, and training. You moved slightly away from Mike as he talked on his phone about a private matter. Just as Mike turned his back, a group of young men, who were lower down in the hierarchy, approached you. It surprised you that they came to you; you believed many of them didn’t like you, so being spoken to by them made you feel happy.

“Hey.” The leader of the little group smirked. “Could you help us move some supplies?”

You eyed the group of five. “Are you sure you want me to help?”

“Yeah, plus we can give you inside information.”

“Oh, well, I’m not really investigating at the moment.” You walked with them. “I’m happy to help, though.”

Another called your name. “You said you’re not investigating? We heard you were doing a big project. You were finding out about corruption in the city. It got to the point where good people got killed.”

You stopped behind a massive shelving unit of supplies. “I didn’t think it was right to keep going for now. I’m keeping it on hold until Levi says so.” You yelped when you were shoved against the shelf, your body bruised from top to bottom. “Ah!” You turned to the group. “I must have tripped.”

The leader snarled. “No, we pushed you.”

“Why?”

He hit you so hard in the face that you were knocked into the shelves again, and a few things fell off as you dropped to the floor. “People died because of you.”

“Died?”

Another kicked you a few times, making you squeak like a bunny being attacked by a wolf. “My brother was killed by Bruce! He killed them because of you!”

You held your hand up. “I didn’t know, I’m sorry.”

He kicked your hard. “I don’t want your sorry!”

You hugged your hand and balled up on the floor to protect yourself. “Tell me what you want. I’ll give it to you.”

“I want you to feel his pain and fear!”

The leader moved closer. “You cause a lot of us to lose someone we care about. So, we’re going to make you feel our pain and their pain.”

You let out a frightened scream when they all lunged for you; you didn’t know what else they were going to do to you, and your mind was running wild. You accepted the beatings they were giving you, and you were hoping that would be the only thing they were going to do to you. Partway through the beating, the leader started removing his shirt, causing the others to stop hitting and kicking you.

One pushed him back. “What are you doing, dude?”

“I’m gonna hurt her in the best way I know how.”

“We don’t do this. This isn’t right.”

“It’s too far.” Another chimed.

One nodded. “He’s right. Even Bruce doesn’t do this kind of shit.”

The leader grabbed your upper arm. “I don’t give a shit what you lot think. I want to know what the big fuss is all about.”

You sobbed. “Please, please, don’t do this. You can beat me more if you want, just not this.”

“Shut up!” He frowned when he saw your eyes widen. “What?” He looked behind him to see Levi standing there looking enraged with Mike, Erwin and a few others. He dropped you on the floor. “I was teaching her a lesson. She caused people to die!”

You flinched when you heard a bang from a gun. The leader began screaming before dropping to the floor. You shifted your body away from him as he hugged his leg while blood pooled from it. While he cried and begged, you saw the group of men who beat you be descended upon by Levi, his friends and the scouts in the area. A part of you felt almost wrong for letting these people defend you and fight for you, but you remembered how Levi talked to you about the whole situation.

None of this was your fault. Bruce acted on his own, and he has done things like this before; he was just using you as an excuse to act. He’d always had a rivalry with Levi.

“Tch, shit.”

You looked up into Levi’s eyes. “Levi?”

He knelt in front of you and carefully cupped your face. “Look what they did to you. I’ll kill them.”

You sniffed a little. “Don’t kill them.”

“They have wronged me and you. No one messes with you.”

You frowned a bit, but it hurt to frown. “Why?”

“Why what?”

“Why can’t anyone mess with me?”

He scooped you up into his arms. “Because you are precious to me.” He carried you away. “You matter to me. I care about you so deeply.”

You leaned against Levi. “Thank you for caring about me.” You rested your head against the crook of his neck. “I care so much about you. I can’t stop my feelings for you.” You started sobbing. “So much so that I was willing to take these beatings to protect you and your reputation.”

“You’re too good. Tch. I don’t care about how shitheads like that see me. You are mine.” He shifted you. “Whatever is mine, they need to respect. They showed no respect today.”

You winced a little. “Are we going to the hospital? I’m in a lot of pain.”

“Yes. I’m taking you to a private one.” He bundled you into the back of the car and barked orders at his driver. “We’ll be there soon, okay? Stay awake.” He saw tears run down your cheeks. “I’m sorry.”

“What for?”

“This was supposed to be a safe place for you, but instead my own people hurt you.”

You sat up and looked Levi in his perfect eyes. “Levi, it’s not your fault. You can’t control how others feel. Besides, they were young, new people in your group. Your people helped me. Your people saved me.” You saw he was still sad, so you poked his cheek. “If it’s that bad, then maybe I’ll ask Mike out on a date. I’m sure Mike could protect me.”

“Tch, fuck no. You stay away from him; he’s an animal.”

“And you’re not?”

He smiled before tapping his forehead against yours. “Naughty bunny.”

You cuddled up to Levi with your mind in disarray. Mike mentioned the idea of kissing Levi, but you were a mess at the moment. You wanted to take things further with Levi. You planned to wait until you felt better. Everything felt chaotic—desire and guilt were both battling within you, and when one of them took over, you didn’t know what might happen.

You stared at your hand in a cast and knew that you weren’t going to be working anytime soon. The discomfort you were experiencing was minimal, thanks to Levi paying for a great doctor and getting you everything you needed. The only thing you didn’t like was the stitches on your eyebrow; it all felt tight as it healed up. Throughout your healing process, Levi was working a lot and trying to help where he could. He was sorting out the weakness in his group and ensuring something like this never happened again, at least that’s what he told you.

Missing Levi was a strange thing for you; he was supposed to be someone who was part of your investigation, and yet you longed to be with him physically and emotionally. You decided that you were going to ask him on a date, even though you were very bruised and didn’t look your best, you still wanted to put it out there. It took you a few days to decide this, but you were ready.

You were back at Levi’s mansion again. It felt nicer being there than at the base. After what happened there, Levi didn’t really want you around the others because people kept apologising and pestering you to do everything they could for you. He knew you felt uncomfortable, so he took you to his place and let you heal there.  

Once you changed into something nice, you made your way through the large home and came to a stop when you reached the living room. Levi was clearly setting something up without you knowing because his home was large, and you’d been ordered to go to bed. There were flowers everywhere, your favourite plushies and even presents. It flustered you to see how much he was doing, but something was eating away at you. What if he was doing this for someone else, and you were just assuming it was for you?

“Yeah, yeah, I’m going to do it today. I think I have everything.” Levi softly chatted, his phone pressed against his ear and shoulder as he carried a large vase with roses. He clocked you and paused. “Ah, I’ve got to go. The bunny is in the nest.” He put the vase down and ended the call. “You’re up.”

You looked around the room. “I am.” You cleared your throat. “This is impressive. Is this for your mum or girlfriend?”

“Neither.”

You folded your arms and eyed him. “Who is it for then?”

“My fiancée.”

You felt a sting in your heart. “Oh, well, she’s incredibly lucky.”

He walked closer. “Well, she isn’t my fiancée yet.”

“Oh!” You gasped. “This is the proposal.” You backed up a little. “I should get out of here so you can be with her.”

“Don’t leave. You’re the guest of honour.”

You felt like he’d just stabbed you in the heart. You were going to witness him proposing to a woman while you hid your feelings. “Oh, okay…shall I take a seat?”

“If you want to.”

You sat down and watched him for a moment. “I’m sure she’ll say yes.”

Levi smirked. “Oh, you think so? That’s what I like to hear.” He approached you and got down on one knee. “I’m moving very fast, and it might scare her, but when you know, you know.”

You nodded. “You’re right.”

He opened a ring box and showed it to you. “What do you think?”

Your eyes widened at the delicate ring that seemed to sparkle no matter how Levi held it. “It’s incredible.”

“I’m glad you like it.” He picked it up. “You should try it.”

“Oh, but this is for your fiancée.”

“Try it.”

You offered your hand. “Okay.”

He took your hand and slipped it on. “Perfect.” He kissed the back of your hand. “Just like I imagined.”

You hummed. “It’s wonderful, it really is. Your fiancée will adore it.”

He leaned up and kissed you, taking you by surprise. “So, I’ll take this as a yes then.”

Your eyes widened. “Wait…wait, wait, wait.”

Levi chuckled and began kissing your neck. “I’m waiting.”

“This is all for me?” You cupped his face, making him pout. “I thought this was for someone else!”

“Why would I ever want anyone else. I want you.”

You gulped. “But we’ve not been on any dates.”

He smiled as he turned his head and kissed your hand. “We’ve been on a few. I took you to dinner, I took you to the casino, and we went clothes shopping there, too. We’ve been living together for weeks now.”

You mewled. “True, but we haven’t kissed or had sex.”

He purred. “I’ve already kissed you today.”

“Oh, true.”

“I can kiss you more.”

You licked your lips at the thought. “I would like that.”

He kissed you over and over. “Oh, but the sex thing can wait. You are too hurt for the things I have in mind.”

You felt your cheeks heat up. “What do you have in mind?”

“A lot of wild and passionate sex. I want to eat you until your legs shake hard. I want to fuck you so deeply that your body only craves me for the rest of your life. I want every inch of you to need me. I want to press your body against mine and spend hours filling you with cum. How does that sound?”

You covered his mouth with your hands. “I-It’s perfect, b-but umm…how can you say all that with a straight face!?”

He chuckled before moving his face from behind your hands. “Easily. It’s because I’m in love with you.”

You caressed his cheek. “In love?”

“Deeply.”

You nibbled your lip. “Me too.” You looked away to hide your face. “I love you too.”

Levi let out a long sigh. “Damn, you are so adorable.”

“So…all this is for me?”

“Yes.” He ran his hands up the outside of your thighs and moved closer. “I had a plan, but I think a little bunny got curious.” He tilted his head. “No, she got lonely.”

You covered your face with your hands. “Stop airing out my feelings.”

“Admit it.”

“I can’t with your stupidly handsome face right there.”

He hummed a laugh. “Sorry about my face.”

You grabbed his head and shoved him against your breasts. “There, better.”

“Happy place.”

“I admit it. I missed you so fucking much.” You played with his hair. “You were so focused on other things, and I was here all alone.” You squeaked when Levi kissed right where your heart was. “Levi?”

He lifted his head and smiled. “Forgive me for leaving you alone. I missed you a lot, too, but I had work and I had to make sure this was perfect for you.”

You pushed Levi onto his back on the floor before crawling over him. You sat on his hips, making him grunt. “Levi.”

“Mm?”

“You didn’t have to propose to me to get me naked.”

He massaged your thighs. “I know.”

You leaned down and rested your forearms on the floor, either side of Levi’s head. “Well, you never got to have me as your girlfriend.”

“Mm?” He smirked at you.

“So, how about you have me as your fiancée?”

Levi rolled over onto you and smiled. “What a delightful thought. I’ve always dreamed of having you in front of my fireplace, but it was winter.”

You massaged your fingers in his hair. “Well, we can always do this again in the winter. It doesn’t have to be a one-off.”

Levi crashed his lips against yours and moaned in delight. “What pretty ideas you have.”

You arched your back and purred as Levi began biting and sucking at your neck. A tingle began in your body, and a desire and need were building up. You gasped as he began kissing down your body. You knew exactly what he had in mind, but it still flustered you that he was going down there. All you could do was lift your hips as he pulled your bottoms off.

Levi paused a moment. “May I?”

You slipped your leg over his shoulder. “You may.” As soon as you permitted him, he dove for your core. You threw your head back and panted in delight. Never before has something like this felt so good. Levi had some sort of magical tongue; you were sure of it. “A-Ah.” You clenched his head tightly as you tangled your fingers in his hair and tugged. “Levi.”

Levi gripped your thighs tighter as he kept moving his tongue against you. He focused on your bundle of nerves before dragging his tongue to your opening. He moved his thumb against your clit, causing you to buck harshly against Levi. He moaned against you, the vibration sending a burning euphoria to consume you. You were beginning to lose your mind and body.

You pushed Levi’s head back by his forehead, your legs shaking as you felt a burning orgasm take you. You panted and pushed him again as he tried to go back for more. “G-Give me a-a moment.” You let this head go. “You’re too good.”

Levi crawled up your body and smiled down at you. “Too good, huh?”

“Yes.” You pouted a bit at him. “How can you still want more?”

“I always want more.” He leaned down and kissed you. “You’re delicious, my darling bunny. I want to keep eating you, but if you desire for me to stop, then I will.”

You slowly unbuttoned his shirt. “I want something more.”

He looked down as you opened his belt and trousers. “Look at you, little bunny. You’re going right away for the wolf, hmm?”

“Well, a wolf mates, right?”

Levi’s eyes lit up. “Dangerous words, bratty bunny.” He grunted when you tugged on his belt. “Tch, you.”

“I need you.” You moaned. “Please.”

“Help yourself.”

You felt your whole body blush. “You want me to…”

“Yes, I want you to take my cock and put it in your pussy.”

You threw your arms over your face. “Levi!”

“Oh, now you’re all shy.” He leaned closer and whispered in your ear. “Shall I do it for you?”

You shifted your arms a little. “Stop teasing me.”

“It’s to help you relax.” He enjoyed your gasp as he pressed his tip into you. “I’m a little bit thick, and it’s our first time.”

You grabbed Levi’s arm and hip. “A-Ah.”

“Too much?”

You shook your head. “N-No. Too good.”

He chuckled before pressing himself in deeper. He released a soft moan. “Fuck, you feel incredible.”

You looked down and felt a rush of pleasure at seeing Levi connected with you. “Wow.”

He glanced down and smirked. “We look good together.”

You covered his mouth with your hands. “Stop with the teasing.”

He pulled your hands from him and pinned them down. “Okay, no more teasing. Time to show this little bunny how much of a wolf I can be.”

You went to speak, but Levi began pounding into you like a beast in heat. Your back arched off the floor as your moans filled the room. The two of you were captured in a heated passion, bodies tangled together with Levi’s powerful hips moving. Petals lightly fell from the flowers surrounding you both, a statement of dedication and love from the man making vigorous love to you. Never in your wildest years did you think that you would be engaged to a madman, and then making love to him in a bed of flowers before a fireplace.

What a delicious life you had.

Levi's lips found themselves on your neck, each inch of it being covered in pure devoted affection. Your fists were clenched tightly as the overwhelming pulse of pleasure was taking over. Each movement from either of you sent a shockwave of bliss to throb inside you both. You were not in control of your body; pleasure was sparking and popping all over, while Levi remained in control, possibly to ensure you were experiencing the best euphoria of your life.

You cried out when he bit you hard and sucked. “Mmm!”

Levi stilled his hips a moment. “F-Fuck.” He panted a little as your walls pulsed around him. “Feeling you come around me…this is addictive.”

“Let me hold you.”

He released your arms. “I’m all yours, little bunny.”

You threw your arms around him and hugged him close. “I just need to hold you.”

Levi chuckled and held you closely. “I’m such a lucky man to have someone so cute and sexy as mine.”

You turned your head and kissed his cheek. “I love you.”

He captured your lips and moved his hips nice and slow. “I love you so much. You’re everything to me.”

You panted with Levi, your little moans mixing with his. You cupped his perfect face. “You look so good like this.” You purred. “On top of me.” You moaned as he grinded deep. “Loving me.”

Levi growled. “There’s my confident bunny. Do I belong here?” He thrusted. “Inside you.”

“Y-Yes.” You ripped your nails across his back. “Oh, fuck.”

You turned your head and panted against Levi’s neck. First, Levi had pounded into you like you were the last people on earth, and he needed to mate with you. Now he was rolling his hips so the two of you could feel every inch of each other. He slotted into your pussy so perfectly, stretching you just right while his tip kissed the deepest parts of you. You felt like you were melting under his powerful and strong movements. He was caressing you, inside and out.

You skilfully pushed your hands under Levi’s shirt and pushed it down, allowing you to feel his soft, hot skin. Levi knelt up and pulled his shirt off for you. He wanted to take your shirt off, but he didn’t want you to get carpet burn on your back, so he had to leave your beautiful breasts hidden for now. You were still a vision of beauty. Levi wanted to be entangled with you for eternity. His love for you was dangerous to anyone who would dare to challenge it.

You ran your fingers down his chest, you were admiring him for the man he was. The tattoos that covered him were so beautiful, the scars just seemed to shine in the light. You felt lucky to have him in your life, but if Levi heard you saying that, he would argue with you. Seeing his muscles move as he thrusted inside you, sweat like little sparkles of gems was pure heavenly. He has such a command over your body and heart.

“Levi.” You softly panted. “I’m close.”

He lightly kissed you before speaking against your lips. “Cum for me. I want to feel it all day long.”

Saying your body was a mess was an understatement. Levi had made love to you more times than you could count against the living room floor, surrounded by those beautiful flowers. It was perfect, but the bruises you had got worse, and your arm in a cast seemed to ache a lot more, so Levi was in full nurse mode and making sure you were okay. You could see how worried he was; he was even going overboard with his care and affection.

“Levi.”

“Mm?” He gently moved the sponge against your skin as you sat in your bath.

“I’m okay.”

He cleaned your face a little. “I know you are.”

You grabbed his wrist. “You don’t have to wait on me hand and foot.”

“I do.” He leaned over and kissed you. “I fucked you a bit roughly for a long time.”

You hummed a laugh. “If I remember correctly, I kept saying yes and more.”

He nuzzled his nose against yours. “That’s true.” He stared at your cast. “How is your wrist?”

“It’s okay. It aches a little.”

“I’m sorry.”

You poked his cheek. “It’s not your fault. Those guys cracked the bone. It’s healing, so it will ache sometimes.” You leaned on the edge of your bath. “Does this mean no sex for a while?”

He released a long sigh. “We might have to hold off for a bit.”

You knelt up and showed Levi your wet breasts. “Answer again.”

He stared for a while. “I’ve changed my mind.”

You giggled and wrapped your arms around his neck. “Good boy.”

He hugged your wet body against his. “Mm, you smell so good.” He slid his hands over your back. “You feel good, too.” He kissed your cheek. “I’m going to behave, though. You need to rest.”

You pulled back with a smile on your face. “Deal.”

He looked down. “To think that four months ago we met in front of that news stand, and I’d been stalking you for a year before that.”

You pouted a little. “You stalked me?”

“Only a little.”

You cupped his face. “That isn’t something you should say so casually.”

“I stalked you.” He growled and kissed you. “And now I have you.”

You hummed a laugh. “Oh dear, someone please help me.” Your words were dripping with sarcasm. “Help, help, I’m engaged to a sexy mafia man who loves me, spoils me, takes care of me and puts me first. Someone stop him.”

He showered your face with kisses. “No one can stop me.” He lifted you out of the bath and sat you on a towel. “Let’s get you dried off.”

You kicked your legs as you smiled happily. “Okay.”

Levi grabbed a fluffy towel and rubbed you down gently to ensure you were dry and he didn’t hurt you. He wrapped you up before tending to your wet hair. “Sit still, I’ve got to put your hair up.”

You hummed a laugh as he put your hair up in a towel. “Thank you.”

He picked up some skin treatment and began massaging things into your face, legs and arms. “Does that feel okay?”

You nodded. “Yeah, thank you.”

He noticed you were staring at him. “What? Do you want kisses?”

You hummed a bit. “I would like kisses, but I think you should have some skin stuff on.”

He handed you a little pot. “Go on then.”

You gasped in delight and began putting the mask on his skin. You giggled as he closed his eyes and smiled softly at the attention you were giving him. You pulled back and admired your work. “That’s gotta stay on for a bit, like mine.”

He opened his eyes and looked in the mirror. “Nice job.” He looked down at you. “Thank you. Shall we go relax somewhere?”

You wrapped your arms around his neck. “Yes.”

He scooped you up and carried you through the home to a cosy living room, not the one you two made love in. This was like a big cosy nest to cuddle up in, blankets everywhere, cute cushions, a big TV and a lot of gaming things. This room wasn’t really a thing before you started living here. You’d really made your mark on Levi’s mansion.

“Levi?”

He held you close in the big, bowl-like sofa. “Yes, my darling love?”

You peppered kisses along his jawline. “I love you.”

He looked down at you, his facemask still on. “Even looking like this?”

You snorted a laugh. “Absolutely.” You ran your fingers over his lips. “You’re so kissable.”

“So are you.” He nuzzled his nose against yours. “I’m going to wash off this face stuff. Wait here.”

You watched him get up. “I’ll miss you.”

“I always miss you!”

You sat back and admired your ring; it was hard to process that you were engaged to Levi. It all seemed strange to you. One moment you were investigating Levi while living in a small home by the sea, next you were wrapped up in his arms in his mansion. You were happier than you were before. Levi had opened doors and your life to something much better. You’d never know love like this; it made you feel whole.

Levi slipped his arms around your neck and kissed your temple. “What is my beautiful fiancée thinking about?”

“My life. How I went from a small-time reporter to now being engaged to a very powerful man in this city.”

He slid around the seat and cuddled up to you. “What do you think?”

You caressed his face all over. “Mm. Lovely.” You smiled at him. “You’re lovely.”  You ran your hand down his chest. “So very, very lovely.”

Levi dragged you onto his lap and chuckled. “Keep your horniness in check, my darling. You need to recover.”

You whined a little. “I’ll behave, but you’re so sexy.”

He rubbed your back. “I know, and you’re divine, my bunny, but you are recovering, and I’ve done damage to you.”

“That’s just cause you love me so much that it explodes out of you.”

He looked down at his lap. “Oh, something does explode out of me, that’s true.”

You giggled. “Naughty.”

He turned his head and kissed you. “I’m very naughty, and I’m yours.”

Chapter Text

Levi had sent you on a mission today, to go shopping with his bank card and return with a hoard. He wanted you to indulge yourself, and you didn’t really have anything to do these days, so you went out with the bank card belonging to one of the wealthiest men in the city. It was hard to spend his money, as you weren’t used to having access to so much. You wished Levi were with you, but he had more work to do to combat Bruce. A part of you felt guilty that he had so much to do because of Bruce and his obsession with you.

After purchasing a few cute items for yourself and Levi, you found yourself in a clothing shop. The shop assistant was lovely, helping you select a few pieces and guiding you to the fitting room. You tried everything on, took pictures of each piece, and sent them to Levi to show him what he was missing. Then, you sent them to your dear friend, Kat, who was helping you choose the best things to buy.

You slipped out of the changing room and began talking to the attendant. “I’ve found a lot of things. I really love it here. I’m glad I came. You’ve been amazing.” You looked up to see that she was looking scared behind the counter, while Ava Evergreen sat in a killer suit on the sofa. “Ms Evergreen.

Her longer black hair was tamed back on one side to show off her slender face and cat eyes. Her pointed red glasses drew your attention to her beauty. She smiled at you as she beckoned you closer with her elegant, long fingers with red-painted nails. “Come closer.”

You were cautious about Ava; she did bad things to get power, but she also protected women. She acted in a way that reminded you of Levi, but she was more neutral. “You after Levi?”

“No, not at all. I just want to talk to you for a bit.”

You noticed all the guards with her were women. “Sure.” You sat down with her. “What’s wrong?”

She placed her hand into the inside of her blazer pocket and pulled out two lollipops. “Want one?” She offered it. “Has gum inside.”

You decided to offer an olive branch. “Thank you so much.”

She unwrapped hers as you did yours. She watched you a moment and smiled. “Levi’s a lucky man.”

“Oh, thank you.” You cleared your throat as your cheeks heated up. “You’re stunning.”

“I know.” She winked at you.

“So, how can I help?”

She released a long sigh. “I’m here to talk about Bruce.”

You scrunched up your nose. “Oh, him.”

She laughed. “I feel the same way. He’s a stain on our city.”

You reached over and placed your hand on her arm. “You look…pained.”

“Rochelle was her name. She was everything to me. She was so beautiful.” She looked off into the distance as if she were seeing her again. “I didn’t know how twisted Bruce was, so we worked together. He was all smiles with me.” She snarled. “Fucker had an affair with Rochelle.”

“What a dick.”

She slumped in her chair. “He stole her from me, got her pregnant and then dumped her like she was nothing. I tried to comfort my ex, but the damage he did to her…” She shook her head. “He broke her physically and emotionally until she couldn’t stand it anymore. She took her own life, and he laughed.” She slammed her fist against the back of the sofa. “He laughed at her killing herself and said it was one last mess for him to clean up.”

You leaned over and hugged her. “I’m sorry.”

She squeezed you in her slender arms. “Thank you. I miss her, but I hope she is at peace now.”

“I’m sure she is.”

She released a long sigh. “He’s hurt a lot more women, and he’ll keep hurting them. I’ve rescued so many of them, but it’s never enough. He has to be stopped.” She reached over and caressed your cheek. “I know he’s interested in you. It’s dangerous for you, and you being engaged to Levi will not stop him.”

You hugged yourself a little. “I know. He scares me.”

She eyed your scars. “Who hurt you?”

“Some young people in Levi’s gang.” You explained to her what happened and what Levi did. “I get it, you know? I understand what they were thinking. I mean, as soon as I walked into the picture, people started getting hurt.” You held your hand up. “I know, it’s not my fault. Bruce is to blame, I understand that.”

She bundled you up in her arms and held you. “Poor little cupcake.”

You looked up at her. “I’m okay. I’m happy, he just needs to go.”

“We’ll make him go.”

Throat clearing caused both of you to glance towards the doorway, where Levi was standing in fitted smart trousers, a crisp white shirt with rolled-up sleeves, a snug waistcoat, elegant shoes, and what looked like a choker with a lock bearing your initials. “May I ask why you two are so close?”

Ava played with your hair. “We were bonding. Don’t worry, I won’t steal her. She’s adorable, though.”

“I know.” Levi opened his arms as he said your name. “Come here.”

You dove into Levi’s arms and held him. “Mm.”

He rubbed your back. “Talk, Ava.”

You looked up at him. “Be nice.”

Levi released a long sigh. “Okay.” He kissed the top of your head. “Finish shopping while I talk business with Ava.” He pinched your cheek. “I know you’re a reporter and want the latest scoop, but this is serious business and I don’t want you hearing some of the things we do.”

Ava hummed a laugh. “She’s such a cute reporter.”

“She’s my cute reporter.”

“Oh, hush now, Levi.” She hummed a laugh. “I’m not Bruce. I would never steal another person’s lover.” She rose to her feet and appeared a bit taller than Levi, but didn’t make him look like a small man. “I only ask that I’m invited to the wedding.” She winked at you. “I’ll even give you some research notes for your report.”

You gasped in delight. “Thank you!”

She placed her hand on her heart. “So cute.”

Levi lightly pushed your back. “Go on, bunny.”

You hurried over to the till and placed everything you wanted on it. “That’s all.”

The worker smiled at you. “S-Sure.”

“They won’t hurt you, I promise.”

She gulped hard. “I-I know, b-but…”

“She’s worried about me.” Bruce’s soft, deep voice came from the front door behind you. “I think she saw me coming over and was so excited to meet Bruce Redwood.” He pressed his hands on the counter on either side of you, causing you to be trapped between his arms. “I’m flattered, but I’m taken.” He looked down at you. “Right, my little bird?”

You lifted your hand and showed him your engagement ring. “I’m engaged.”

His perfectly trimmed brow raised. “Oh? Well, let's say it’s mine then.” He leaned closer as he tried to kiss you, so you kept your hand between your mouths. “No kisses? You tease me so much.”

“I’m engaged to Levi.”

His eye twitched a little. “Not possible. I won’t allow it.”

You grabbed his face roughly, his hair falling out of place and making his eyes widen in shock, while the woman behind the counter cowered in fear. “Look at me and listen.”

“I’m uh…I’m listening.”

“I’m engaged to Levi.” You saw that he went to speak. “Shut up. You’ve talked a lot, and it’s my time to talk, okay? That’s how conversations work. I talk, you listen, and then you talk.”

He smirked. “Yes, little bird.”

“I’m engaged to Levi. I’m going to marry Levi. I am not a woman you can just take for yourself.” You wiggled his face a little. “You need to find another woman to love. Okay?”

He hummed a laugh. “It’s not possible. I want you.”

You let go of his face and shoved him back. “I don’t want you.”

“But I’m perfection.” He folded his arms and frowned. “You don’t like perfection?”

“You’re not perfect.”

The tension in the room rose at your words. “What?”

You poked his chest. “You heard me. I said you’re not perfect. What kind of perfect man uses a woman, gets her pregnant, then treats her badly and laughs at her killing herself? What kind of perfect man has no regard for others? What kind of perfect man doesn’t understand no? You’re just a man who spends a fortune on looking good, but he is rotten on the inside. No matter what you do to the outside, you’ll be twisted, rotten, dirty, and flawed inside.”

He placed his hand on his chest as his heart raced. “I…you…”

You grabbed your shopping bags. “I love Levi because he is sweet, kind, funny, considerate, and he listens to me. His looks are just a massive bonus to him.”

Levi sternly called your name from behind Bruce as you and Bruce stared each other down. “Are you okay?”

You held your head high. “I’m fine, just getting my shopping.” You moved past Bruce and smiled at Levi. “I bought a lot!”

Levi’s tugged his gun out when Bruce reached out and gripped your upper arm tightly. “Bruce? Mind letting my fiancée go?”

Bruce slowly turned his head and looked down at you, his voice dangerously dark. “Am I that rotten?”

You looked up at him. “I’m not the woman for you.”

He tugged at you, stopping you from walking. “I’m in love with you.”

“Love? I don’t think it’s love. I’m the first woman who isn’t conventionally pretty who has said no to you. You need to accept that you can’t have everything. I don’t want you. Accept it and leave me alone.” You yanked your arm away and ran over to Levi. “I left my other bags over by the sofa Ava was on. Could you help me carry them?”

Levi pulled you against him. “Sure.”

Ava clicked her fingers, making her team grab your things. “Don’t worry, little reporter. I’ll help.”

You grinned. “You’re so sweet, Ava.”

Bruce slowly smirked. “Rochelle, wasn’t it?” He saw Ava freeze. “Sweet thing. She smelled like mangos, and her afro was so soft. She was so plump at the beginning, but then she became skin and bones.” He slowly turned to a shaking Ava with his hands in his pockets. “I know you’re mad, Ava, but I made it clear from the beginning when she chased me that we were never going to be more than fuck buddies. Seems like you never knew who your lover really was.”

You grabbed Ava’s hand before she lunged for Bruce. “Could we swap numbers? I would like to have afternoon tea with you.”

Ava relaxed at your words. “Of course. Let’s get you home.”

You trotted along with her. “Yes, I need to put everything away. Plus, I have Halloween to plan! I love the holiday.”

“It’s a good one.”

Levi took all your bags. “Do you like this end of the year?”

You nodded. “Summer is fun and whatnot, but I love the Ber seasons the most! It’s so cosy.” You stopped in front of Levi’s car. “Means more cuddles.”

“That’s true.” Levi’s eyes widened when Bruce wrapped his arm around your middle, making you scream. He lifted you and pulled you away. Levi threw his arm out and barked orders. “Stop pointing your guns at my fiancée! He’s using her as a shield right now!”

Bruce held you close. “I’m not done with this one. We were talking.” He backed up more. “I’m taking her for a while. No harm will come to her pretty head, so don’t worry.” He adjusted you as he smirked. “I won’t damage her either. Trust me.”

Levi clenched his fist tightly. “I don’t fucking trust you.”

“Well, then this is awkward.” He squeezed you. “We’re going now.” Bruce hurried away with you to his car. He placed you in the passenger seat and sped through the city. “This is so exciting! You and me together finally.” He reached over to you, but you tried to bite him. “Whoa, a feral little bird. I might need to change your name to kitten.”

“Take me back to Levi.” You demanded. “Right. Now.”

“We’re not done talking.”

“I’m done with you!” You tried the door handle. “Let me go.”

He chuckled as he turned down a road. “I’ve locked the doors; you can’t get out. Even if you did, we’re going too fast.”

You glared at him before punching him hard in the face. Bruce released the wheel to grab his face, causing the car to jerk and slam into a lamppost, thankfully missing pedestrians. You leaned over him, pressed a few buttons until your door unlocked. You undid your seatbelt before falling out of the car and shocking those watching. As you looked around, feeling dizzy, you noticed Levi and Ava’s cars pull up.

You stumbled towards the cars. “Levi!”

Levi sprinted over to you before scooping you up into his arms. “I’ve got you.”

Bruce fell out of the car and panted as blood poured out of his nose. “You!”

Levi held you tightly. “Don’t you dare touch her.”

Bruce spat out blood. “Give her to me!”

“You’ll hurt her.”

Bruce laughed. “I wouldn’t hurt a hair on her head. I just want to shake the hand of the woman who managed to hit me.”

Levi carried you to his car. “She’s set the boundaries, now respect that.”

Bruce pulled out his gun and aimed it at Levi. “Levi Ackerman, give me that woman. NOW.”

Levi slowly put you down. “Are you threatening me?” Darkness loomed over Levi. “You better not be.”

You never thought in your life you would see Bruce tremble slightly in fear, but here he was, afraid of Levi. You watched in awe as Levi walked slowly towards Bruce; each step he took towards him gradually chipped away at Bruce’s bravery in front of many onlookers. His gun shook more and began to lower, so if he were to pull the trigger, Levi would not be at great risk.

Levi grabbed the end of the gun and yanked it out of Bruce’s hands. He slowly took the gun apart and dropped it on the floor as he spoke in a cold tone to Bruce. “My patience with you is wearing very thin. I’ve tolerated you for a very long time. I’ve let you act like a demonic school kid in this city, make a name for yourself and feel special. I can put up with a lot of things, but not anymore. Consider this, war.”

Bruce gulped hard, his throat dry from fear. “You wouldn’t dare.”

Levi smiled before chuckling and making Bruce laugh. Levi laughed a bit harder before swinging his fist so fast and hard, you only knew he’d hit Bruce because he was on the floor with a tooth flying out and blood pouring from his mouth. Bruce was in utter shock that someone managed to get the upper hand on him. He’d heard of Levi’s rage, his madness and strength, but this was the first time he’d encountered it. Before Bruce could fully comprehend and even consider reacting, Levi kicked him a few times until he was a bloodied mess.

Levi panted a moment and wiped his shoe on the pavement. “Leave this city or this will end in your death.”

Bruce coughed hard and noticed that in a puddle, his perfect face was ruined. “Y-You!”

Your fiancé turned away from Bruce and approached you. “Come on. We should go home.” He paused a moment before taking your hand. “Unless you’re scared of me. If you are, I understand.”

You gently cupped Levi’s face. “I’m not afraid, I’m just worried about you.” You released his face before checking his hand. “You’ve cut your hand up. We need to go home and fix this.”

He hummed as he smiled softly at you. “Yeah, yeah, we need to go home. I need a lot of care.” He lovingly called your name. “Are you okay? You were in a crash.”

“I’m just bruised. I have no cuts.”

“Okay.” He held you close as he guided you to the car. As his driver moved through the city, Levi held you against him to remind him he had you. “I love you.”

You kissed under his jaw. “I love you so much. Thank you for chasing Bruce down to get me.”

“I’m impressed you stopped him.”

“I punched him in his stupid face.”

Levi chuckled. “We both did.”

You leaned up and kissed him. “We did.”

He carried you out of the car as his men emptied the boot full of the things you’d bought today. “We need to take care of each other.”

You kicked your legs. “Yes.”

He sat you on the sofa and began checking you over. “You have a lot of bruises.”

“I feel fine, just sore.” You took his hands. “You need patching up. I’ll get the medkit.”

Levi grabbed your hand as you started to walk away. “I’m glad I didn’t lose you today.”

“Me too. I’ll be right back, okay?”

“Okay.” He watched you walk out of the room and felt nervous. He was scared you were gone and scared you weren’t ever going to come back. He smiled when you rounded the corner. “You’re back.”

You nodded and sat down next to him. “I’m not running off just yet.” You opened the kit and began cleaning his cut-up hand. “His face hurt your hand. Your poor, lovely hand.”

He hummed a laugh. “You’ll kiss is better, right?”

You wrapped up his hand. “I’ll do more than that.”

“Oh?”

You gripped his thigh before leaning over and kissing him. “I can make you feel good in many ways.”

He purred against your lips. “I’m very familiar with your ways.” He dragged you onto his lap. “I need to inspect the bruises.”

“You just want to take my shirt off.”

“Yes, but I can inspect as well.” He pushed your shirt up and off you. “Mm.” He eyed the bruises from the seatbelt. “You got hurt.”

You shrugged. “I feel fine.”

He cupped your back, leaned closer and kissed your chest. “I need to do better. You must be protected.”

“I feel very protected.”

He caressed your cheek. “I might do something drastic.”

You giggled. “Let me guess, you’re thinking of locking me up in a soft, cosy room.”

“Absolutely.”

“Silly man.” Your smile faded a little. “Wait, you’re serious, aren’t you?”

He pushed his hands under the banding of your bra. “I said absolutely.” He leaned forward and bit your breasts. “It’s to keep you safe.”

You grabbed his neck, making him gasp. You pushed him back over the sofa a bit and saw his pupils blow wide; you were making something stir inside him. “Listen here, Levi Ackerman, I might look like a cute little bunny to you, a big bad wolf, but I still can kick and bite.”

He licked his lips. “You’re right.”

“Are you hard right now?”

He smiled. “Yes.”

“Didn’t know you were that kinky.”

He moaned a little. “What can I say? I like a wild bunny.”

You grabbed his face with one hand and squeezed. “Anyway, as I was saying, you’re not locking me up.”

“Bunnies live longer in captivity.”

You pouted. “But free bunnies are better!”

“Free bunnies get killed easily.” He took your hand and began kissing it all over. “It might be safe right now while Bruce heals up, gets surgery for his face and whatnot, but after he’ll be even more dangerous. He stole you from me in front of me.”

You relaxed on Levi’s lap. “You have a point.”

He massaged your thighs. “Tell you what, bunny, how about we do that beach celebration you learned about? Halloween is coming soon, so we could bring back the beach festivals, starting with a Halloween one.”

You gasped in pure delight. “Yes! That’d be wonderful!” He hummed a laugh. “Plus, it’s close to when you can release your report. People need to know about everything.”

“I’ll help you as much as possible.” He grunted when you bounced up and down on his lap. “Brat, careful.”

You slipped your arms over his shoulders. “Why? Is it making you horny?”

“Very.”

You grinded your hips. “How about now?”

He slammed you against the sofa. “How about I fuck you against this sofa until you can’t walk.”

Your whole body heated up. “Y-Yes, please.”

He leaned down but stopped himself. “No, you’ve been hurt, so you need comfort.” He held you against him, stood up and carried you to the bedroom. “We’ll leave the sofa fun for another time.”

“I’m looking forward to it.”

He lay you down and began kissing your neck. “I’ll be gentle.”

You pulled him down for a kiss. “I know you will be.”

He covered you with a blanket when someone knocked on the bedroom door. “Tch, what?”

You rolled away from Levi and hurried to the bathroom. “I’ll be in here.” You dropped the blanket and inspected the bruises on your body. “Damn.” You rubbed some cream into the wound and thought about maybe having a shower. You were still horny for your man, but you were waiting for him to return to you before you did anything.

Levi finished his conversation with his team, made some calls and made sure everything was in order. He perked up when he heard the water running in the bathroom. He sent his men away and gave the maids and butler some orders if more people appeared. He made his way to the bathroom and admired you for a while as you washed your body.

You turned in the shower and paused a moment. “Oh, look, it’s my pervy fiancée.”

Levi chuckled. “Forgive me, you just look so incredible.”

You waved him over. “Come on. Come join me.”

He yanked the last of his clothes off and stumbled into the shower with you. “Perfect shower.”

You hummed a laugh as he hugged you from behind. “It’s perfect.”

“Did you get everything sorted?”

He nuzzled the crook of your neck. “Mm.”

“That bad?”

He kissed your neck. “Business.”

“Bad?”

He hummed and nipped your ear. “Not bad, bad, but still a pain.”

You turned to face him. “Anything I can do?”

“Just be with me and love me.”

You cupped his face. “Easy done, my love.” You tilted your head and kissed him with a soft sigh through your nose. “Mm.”

Levi held you close, his fingers tangled in your wet hair. “I love you. I love you so much.”

“I love you too.” You panted a little. “Can we go to bed?”

He lifted you up. “Yes.”

Chapter Text

You held your hand above your head as you admired your wedding ring. Levi has swept you off your feet after the Bruce scare, taken you to a hotel in a nearby city, and married you. Most would view your relationship as rushed, but it felt just right for both of you. With Levi having a dangerous job and you encountering danger as a journalist, you simply fell into the world and went with it.

A deep, tired growl emitted from your handsome, naked husband. His arm slung around you. “What are you doing?” His voice was deep and rough. He inhaled deeply and opened his bright steel blue eyes. “You’re up to something.” He leaned his head on his hand, elbow against the bed as he looked down at you. He rubbed your belly. “Thinking of something naughty?”

You slapped your hands against his cheeks. “Just plotting your murder and then my takeover of your gang.”

He smirked at your words. “That so?” He turned his head and nuzzled your hand before kissing it. “To be killed by you would be oh so blissful.”

You pinched his cheeks. “Don’t talk like that.”

He laughed. “Like what?”

You shoved him onto his back before straddling him. “About death so casually.”

“It’s part of my job. I face death every day.”

You jabbed his chest. “What if I held a gun to your heart right now?”

He cupped your hand, pointing at him like a gun. “Fire away, my bunny, to die by your hand is bliss. A life without you would be eternal hell.”

You pouted hard and began hitting his chest. “No!”

“No?”

You whined a little. “I don’t like your answer.”

He reached up and caressed your cheek. “Then how should I answer?”

“That you’d burn down the city, even the world, to be with me. Not even death can stop you from being with me.”

He held your wrists before yanking you down against him. “Oh, my darling sexy bunny. You know very well I would burn everything in my path to have you. I would kill everything and everyone in my path. I would break through the Earth to go through the underworld to get your soul back. I’d do anything for you.”

You ran your hands up his arms before pinning them above his head. “So you should.”

He smirked. “Look at you, pinning me in place.”

“I’ll bite you too.”

“Promise?”

You narrowed your eyes. “You’re enjoying this too much.”

He lifted his hips against you. “You should tie me up.” He released a little moan. “You’re the only person who can cuff me or tie me.”

“You want me to tie you up.”

“I wouldn’t object to it.”

You moved your hips against him. “What if I tied you up with the promise of kinky sex, but I steal all your things and money and run away?”

He moaned your name. “Please do, punish me.”

You went to tease him again, but someone knocked on your hotel door. “Company.”

“Wait! Don’t go.”

You pressed his nose before jumping off and wrapping up in a dressing gown. “I’ll be right back.”

He whined your name like a sad puppy. “Come back.”

You blew him a kiss. “In a bit.” You moved through the large hotel room. You threw the door open to see Prescilla looking like she hadn’t slept in months. “Oh, hello. Why are you here?”

She locked eyes with you. “I need to talk to you.”

“We can talk like this.”

She moved closer. “I want to talk alone.”

You released a long sigh. “You can come in for a moment, but then you have to leave.”

She shoved her way into the room and began pacing. “I have a lot to say to you.”

You sat on the arm of the sofa as you watched her closely. “Let me guess, you’re mad that Bruce is not interested in you anymore and that I won’t tell you what I’m doing with my current investigation.”

She cracked you hard across the face, her thin, bony hand and long nails causing more pain than they should have. “You took EVERYTHING from me.”

You released a long sigh. “Let’s get a few things clear. I loathe Bruce, and I wish he would fuck off. I’m a married woman now. I want him gone, and if you want him, have him.” You glared at her. “As for your job. I work my ass off for my job. This story I’m chasing is from my own hard work, and I don’t want you stealing it. It’s almost finished and I’m going to release it soon. If you had a single bit of talent left in your body, you would find your own stories.” You grabbed her wrist before she could hit you again. “Slap me again and I’ll cut your fucking hand off.”

She gritted her teeth. “But you!”

“No, not me. You.” You gripped her wrist hard. “It was all you.” You shover her back, making her fall.

“I hate you!”

You folded your arms. “Feelings mutual. Now, we’ve had our chat. So, get out.”

She snarled at you and grabbed her heel. “You deserve pain!”

Right as she launched at you, heel at the ready to stab your darling husband, walked forward and grasped her neck. “Tch, disgusting thing. Did she try to hurt you, my sweet and precious bunny wife?”

“Yes.” You stood up and smiled. “She slapped me hard in the face.” You pouted a bit. “It really hurt.”

Levi glanced over at you to see your cheek was cut. “Bunny. Your poor, adorable cheek.”

“As soon as you get rid of her, you can make it all better.”

“Of course.” He dragged Prescilla out of the room and closed it so you wouldn’t hear. “Listen closely, Ms Chambers.” He dropped her to the floor, causing her to cough. “My wife in there is a sweet, adorable little love bunny. She might be my wife, but she is not part of my world or Bruce’s. I protect her and keep her away from it all. So, the worst she’ll do to you is slap you.” He walked closer, making her shiver. “I will do anything to ensure she is safe and happy. You’ve seen some of the things I’ve done when you ran around with Bruce. I don’t care who I hurt as long as she is safe. So, if I see you near her again, I won’t hesitate to break you.”

She crawled away for a moment before sprinting down the hall. “I’m sorry!”

Levi released a long sigh before turning to the door, only for it to be open, and you stood there. “Did you hear everything?”

You nodded shyly. “I did, and it was very romantic of you.”

He growled a little. “Naughty bunny.”

You squeaked and ran from him. “Noooo! Bad wolf!”

Levi shot into the room, kicked the door closed and sprinted after you. “Come here, little bunny!”

You screamed and ran around the room with Levi. “Mercy!”

“No mercy for you!”

You got on the other side of the sofa and stared. “I’m an innocent bunny wife.”

He narrowed his eyes. “You left me horny in bed to answer the door to a wicked woman who slapped you, then you listened to my conversation.”

You smiled and pushed out your chest. “I love you.”

“Darling bunny, I love your breasts, but I’m still going to capture you and spank you.”

You squeaked and began running away from him again. When you got to the bedroom, Levi tackled you onto the bed and began biting and tickling you. “Leviiii.” You wiggled under him. “Honey bear.”

He stopped and stared down at you. “I like the pet name.”

You wrapped your arms around his neck. “Darling, love, hubby, honey, wolf, pudding, sweetness.”

He purred. “I love all of them.” He turned his head and kissed you roughly. “I love you so much.”

You rolled over onto him and grinned. “So, about tying you up…”

He smirked at you. “I’m ready.”

Levi adjusted your coat a little before smiling. “You look adorable.”

“Thank you. You looked handsome.” You admired your husband in his black long coat with a turtleneck underneath and a necklace you got him hanging around his neck, resting on his chest. The leather gloves on his hands completed the perfect look. “I wanna eat you.”

He blushed at your words. “Tch, you…”

You flapped your arms when the news crew started turning up. “Honey bear, look!”

He put his arm around you and tugged you close. “They’re all here to see your amazing beach fair.”

“I just wanted to bring back something important to the people here.”

He kissed your cheek. “Such a good girl.”

You bounced up and down. “Does this good girl get kisses?”

He cupped your face. “Of course.” He tilted his head and kissed you deeply, but froze when he felt a bright light fall on him. He turned his head and stared at the news team. “Can I help you?”

“We just want to interview you and your wife about this fair.” The eager young reporter said.

He hummed as he kissed the side of your head. “I suppose you could talk to her.”

You rubbed Levi’s chest. “Be nice.”

He sighed. “I’ll be nice.”

You stood next to Levi and smiled brightly. “I’m all yours.”

All the lights were on you, and many microphones were presented to you. You weren’t expecting so much attention, but you were ready for it. You knew what to say; Erwin and Li had worked together in preparing you for the press, two great minds working together. It was fun having lessons with them, even if it did make Levi grumpy; you were around other men.

The young reporter asked the first question. “Why did you decide to run a Halloween and winter fair?”

“Well, while I was in the archive room where I work, I came across old news reports of the fair. I felt so sad that it came to an end because money was funnelled into different things. The money is all gone, so…” You hugged Levi’s arm. “I had a chat with my handsome husband, and we decided to work with the community, put money together and fund this fair. We hope that people can make fun memories. It’s time for positivity.”

An older reporter tutted. “It’s all well and good you’re putting on a fair, but what about the taxpayers' money? Surely you’ve taken some and not even run it by the public.”

Levi snarled. “As my wife just said, the money has come from us, along with other investors. There is no money from the taxpayers here. Even if we wanted to have that help fund us, there is none to spend; your mayor is spending it all on useless shit.” He winced. “Sorry, no swearing on live TV.”

Another sighed. “Sorry about that question you were given. It’s wonderful that you invested in this along with others. Do you have other seasons in mind you would like to do a fair for?”

You nodded. “Yes, we plan on doing a winter event, a spring event and a summer event. We want all the seasons and encourage others to host events as well. This city has a beautiful beach and venue space; it’s full of wonderful, talented people with big hearts who have been pushed into the shadows.”

A snotty woman moved her mic closer. “Do you think that being involved with mafia leader Levi Ackerman might taint these events? You’re researching the mafia corrupting this city, correct? So, why join them?”

“You’re right. I am researching the corruption in this city, but it’s not only these gangs but also your politicians. My link to Levi is pure love; we’re married, and he donated to this because he loves me, his wife. I am not a member of his group; I’m linked to him by marriage and love.”

Levi tugged you close. “This little bunny is as innocent as can be. I’m investing money in this because this event is important to my wife, and it’s a great benefit to the people. Fairs boost morale for the people, and they bring in some income for those taking part. It’s good for this city. If we hold a lot of the events, you’ll have tourists, which is more money.”

The young reporter moved closer. “Mrs Ackerman, I think what you’re doing will give this city a fresh start. You’ve taken great care and thought into what is being provided here. I’m looking forward to exploring this event. Is there anywhere you would recommend?”

You hummed. “Well, I think-.”

“You’re so needy for this little bird.” Your hair stood on end as Bruce put his arm over your shoulders. “Let her enjoy the event she created.” He grinned, showing off his new, perfect teeth, a slight scar on his lip caused by your husband. “I first met her as she was researching this.” He looked down at you. “She looked so adorable.”

Levi yanked you against him. “Bruce.”

You softly whispered. “Levi, don’t. This event has to go perfectly.”

“Thank you, everyone. Please enjoy the fair, it’s on for a week. My wife and I are going to enjoy ourselves.”

“Thank you.”

Levi walked with you for a bit. “I want to break his face again, but I can’t ruin something you worked so hard on.” He kissed the side of your head. “Let’s have a bit of fun and head home.”

You whined a little. “What about Bruce? Knowing him, he’ll ruin it all.”

“Don’t worry, I’ve messaged the team and asked them to keep an eye on him.”

You released a long sigh. “Good.” You still felt on edge, but you trusted Levi deeply and knew he would make things right.

“He’ll never take you again.” His look was dark and murderous, but as soon as you saw it, it was gone, and he had a gentle smile. “Do you want to go on rides, have a snack or shop first?”

You hummed. “I know what I want.”

He smiled as you stood in front of him. “Tell me.”

“A kiss from my sexy husband.”

He wrapped his arms around you. “I’m happy to deliver.” He tilted his head and kissed you passionately, his body burning with love. “Do you want another kiss?”

You cupped his face. “Mm, I would like to snack. There is a stand with baked goods and pumpkin spice drinks.”

“Sounds perfect.” He picked you up and carried you to a stall with lots of baked treats. “There’s a lot to choose from, my bunny wife. Which one do you want?”

You hummed. “Well, my tasty wolf, that little cake there looks good.”

Levi pointed at some fancy cakes and ordered them. “Thanks.” He paid and took the bag with the food and drinks in it. “Let’s find a nice cosy spot to enjoy this, and so I can gaze at you.”

“Perv.”

“Only with you.” He sat you down in a comfy spot and handed you your hot chocolate. “Take your time, we have days here.”

You kicked your legs a little as you sipped on your hot drink. “Do you think everything is going well?”

He wiped cream from your lip and sucked it off his finger. “Mm, everyone seems very happy. I know you’re worried, but I strongly believe in you, my darling bunny. Yes, you’re right. This is going to go perfectly.”

You picked up some cake, broke a bit off and then fed it to Levi. “I just want things to go perfectly with you.”

“I’ll make sure of it.” He leaned closer and kissed you. “I love you.”

“I love you deeply.” You put your cup down and cupped Levi’s face. “How did I get such a handsome man as my husband?”

“We’ve talked about this, my lovely bunny. I stalked you and then swooped you off your feet.”

You wiggled his face. “Big bad wolf.”

He turned his head and bit your hand. “Yes. One that has a taste for bunnies.” He launched for your neck and bit, making you squeal with laughter. “Tasty.”

“Naughty.”

He nipped, licked and sucked your skin before stopping and noticing Bruce approaching with a cuddly, fluffy bird. “Tch, the fuck he want?”

You turned your head and pouted. “No, not him.”

“My men must have backed off for a reason. I don’t want them to risk their lives.” He caressed your cheek. “Forgive them.”

“It’s okay.” You massaged his thigh. “I don’t want them to get hurt either.”

Bruce took one knee and offered the cuddly bird. “Sweet baby bird, I won this for you.”

You stared at it. “Oh…”

“Do you not like it?”

“I like bunnies.”

He lowered the bird. “Will, I could also rip the wings off and put them on the head of the bird so it’ll have bunny ears.”

You gasped. “Don’t destroy it. Give it to a kid.”

He gripped it tightly. “Why would I do that? I can’t stand those little parasites.” He saw you were looking upset. “What? You like children?” He looked disgusted. “Why would you ever want them? They’re vile and take everything from you. They will just hurt you.”

Levi tangled his fingers with yours. “I adore them. They’re sweet and cute.” He kissed your neck. “You’ll be a wonderful mother.”

You smiled at Levi. “You think so?”

“Yes. I’d be honoured to have cute kids with you. We’ll have as many as you want. You set the rules and boundaries.”

Your eyes sparkled at his caring and loving words. “I would like a few.” You lowered your head to hide a bit. “I think you’ll be an incredible father, so handsome, supportive and sweet.”

He kissed your cheek. “Thank you. We’re going to make the cutest babies.”

“We are.”

“Oh.” The two of you looked up at Bruce, who was now standing over you. “So, you’re one of them. You can’t be perfect with those parasites.”

You hummed a laugh. “I don’t care. Besides, I’m not perfect now, and that’s fine. I don’t want to be perfect, never have. I want to be happy, and my happiness is right next to me. Perfection seems so exhausting; you’re always working hard to stay there or to reach it. Plus, who defines what is perfect anyway? It’s like beauty, it’s subjective.”

Levi cuddled you. “You’re perfect.”

“I’m perfect to you, but I’m not perfect to others.”

“They’re stupid.”

You giggled as you rubbed his arm. “You’re so cute.”

Bruce gripped the toy tightly. “This doesn’t make sense…”

You looked up at him. “I’m not the woman for you, I think that’s clear. So, let me go.”

He stared at the toy, turned and walked towards a little girl. He saw she was getting terrified of him. “Hello, I have a gift.” He gave his best charming smile. “A little bird for a cute little bird.”

She gasped as her eyes sparkled. “Pretty! Thank you.”

He handed it over to her and felt a change. “Huh…” He picked her up and held her high, making her scream and start crying. “I get it! Seeing this little cute thing smile.” He lowered her as she cried for her mummy, who was nowhere to be seen. “I think my little bird and I could make perfect kids, better than you.”

You yanked the girl out of his hands and hugged her. “It’s okay, sweetie, it’s okay.”

She hugged you tightly. “Mummy.”

You rubbed her back. “I’ll help you find your mummy.”

Bruce walked closer. “This is perfect. You look so lovely with her! We should have a little angel of our own.”

Levi stood between you and Bruce and placed his hand on his chest. “Stop. You’re scaring the little girl. She’s lost her mummy, so we need to help her.”

“Don’t touch me with your filthy hands.”

Levi lowered his voice. “I’ve broken you before, I’ll break you again, but not here, not now. This event is special to my wife. If you cared about her in any way, you would stop.”

Bruce dragged his gaze from Levi and onto you. He watched you talk to the girl, smile at her and cheer her up. Seeing you smiling and happy with such a cute girl was all he wanted. “You’re right. I’ll enjoy this event she put together.”

“Thank you.” Levi watched for Bruce to be far enough away before relaxing and turning to you. “Hey, bunny.”

You smiled at him. “Hi, this lovely, cute girl is Bella. Bella, this is my handsome, cute husband I mentioned.”

Bella giggled as a blush formed. “Hi.”

Levi smiled softly. “Hello, lovely to meet you.” He shook her small hand. “Shall we find your mummy?”

“Yes, thank you.” She gasped. “Uh…”

You looked at her. “What is it?”

She nibbled her lip. “Can I ride on his shoulders?”

You laughed. “I’m sure he won’t mind that, right, Levi?”

He took Bella from you and placed the girl on his shoulders. “Hold on, okay?”

“Kay!”

You took her cuddly bird and walked with your husband through the event to see a worried mum by the security kiosk. “Oh, there’s mummy.” The mother thanked you both through sobs, offered you money, but Levi declined and bought the girl a big bunny plushie instead of the bird one and a nice cookie. “That was nice of you.”

Levi waved with you as the girl jumped and waved. “Well, bunnies are better.”

“Kind of jealous.”

He looked over at you. “Oh, don’t worry, I already bought you one. I asked the kiosk owner to hold it to the side for me.” He winked at you. “Only the best for my wife.” He pulled you along to the stand and picked up a big, cuddly rabbit plushie, along with two bunnies kissing. “They didn’t have one of a wolf and bunny, but this will do for us as a couple.”

You hugged the big one tightly. “I love them! Thank you!”

Levi kissed and sucked at your shoulder as he held you from behind. He was trying to give you love and positivity as you checked out your phone. “Sweet wife, have faith.”

You let out a long sigh as you kept reloading the main page of the news team you worked for. It was early in the morning, and you hadn’t slept all night. Today was the day of your report about corruption in the city, which was going to point fingers at many political and influential figures. It worried you how people would react because now you were Mrs Ackerman. You hoped that this would motivate people to rebel and address the problems in the city.

You gripped your phone as Li texted you, saying your report had been approved and it’d be released in two hours. “Ugggh. Two hours? That’s so long. I’m tired.”

Levi kissed your temple. “Get some sleep then.”

“But, Levi.”

He took your phone once you’d texted Li back and placed it on the side. “You’ve been awake all night, and as soon as your story is released, it’ll take a while for people to read it and post their reviews.”

You whined for a while as you processed Levi’s words. He was right, and staying up all night and waiting for your article was silly; you needed sleep. “Okay, I’ll sleep, but I need you to cuddle me.”

Levi smiled. “You don’t need to ask.”

You turned in his arms and dived onto him, making him lie back. “Cuddly wolf.”

“Come here, my cute bunny. My chest is your pillow.” He ran his fingers through your hair and rubbed your back. “Rest.”

You closed your tired eyes and listened to his beating heart. “Your heart sounds so pretty.”

Levi blushed at your words. “I’ve never had anyone say that before.”

You lifted your head and looked at him. “That bad?”

He shook his head. “Makes me happy.”

You lay your head against him again. “All of you is wonderful.”

“So are you. I love every inch of you.” He looked down when you didn’t respond. He smiled when he saw you had passed out. “So cute.” He carefully moved you to lie on your side next to him. He rolled over and gazed at your sweet sleeping form. “I’m a lucky man.” He caressed your cheek. “I love you so much.” He winced when your phone went off. “Tch, damn it.” He grabbed your phone to see Li’s name. “Li? It’s Levi.”

“Oh, hello, Levi. Is she asleep?”

“I made her sleep.” He lay on his back and sighed. “She’s been up all night worrying about this.”

“Not surprised.”

“So?” Levi put his arm over his forehead. “How’s it going?”

Li chuckled. “Amazing so far. You should read it if you didn’t before she sent it.”

Levi smiled. “I read it before she sent it; she wanted me to check it. It’s incredible.”

“You can say that again. It’s so beautiful, deep and uplifting at the end. It gives you hope for this city, even though she talks about the dark side.”

“I’m proud of her.” Levi smiled, but then he gripped your phone when he thought about reviews. “What are other people saying?”

“Great responses. A lot of people are angry at those she’s named. So, it’s all good.” He sighed. “The issue will be those she’s named. There are a lot of rich and powerful people.”

Levi hummed in agreement. “You’re right, but don’t worry, I wrote those names down and they’re being watched. Ava Evergreen is assisting me in watching them to ensure my wife is safe.”

“Good, I’m glad. I feel happy she’s safe.” Li cleared his throat. “Anything from Ms Chambers since your last encounter? She might also be an issue. She’ll be enraged that this report is so good and not done by her.”

“I’ll watch her.”

“I’ll also watch her. Make sure she sleeps and eats.”

Levi looked over at you. “Promise.”

“Thanks. Talk soon, Levi.”

“Talk soon.” He ended the call and put your phone down before hugging you. “My smart, good bunny.”

After a few hours of sleeping, it hit midday, which was when you began to wake up. You smiled when you saw that Levi was still sleeping next to you. You reached over and petted his face. “Handsome.”

Levi smiled and nuzzled his face against your hands. “Thank you.” He tugged you against him and hummed. “Cute wife.”

“Did I sleep for a while?”

He kissed your forehead. “Yes. It’s midday. You should sleep more.”

You lightly touched his lips. “How can I sleep when you’re here?”

“How romantic of you.” He lightly kissed you. “You stole the words out of my mouth.”

“I want to steal your mouth.”

He chuckled. “That doesn’t make much sense, but okay.” He smiled when you pouted a bit before diving for him. “Ow, that was a big bite. Ow, another one? You’re in a biting mood.” He pulled you away and smiled when you bit his finger. “Who knew rabbits bite?”

“I just wanna bite you. You’re very plump. I love it.”

“Good.” He frowned when he noticed you had a bit of redness on your face. “Hmm.” He lightly touched your face before touching his. “Ah, stubble.”

You rubbed his cheeks and jaw. “Stubble, stubble, stubble. How did you know?”

“My stubble has scratched your face a little.” He climbed out of bed and pulled on some bottoms so he wasn’t naked. “I’ll shave. I don’t want to hurt you.”

You sat up and giggled. “So caring. Can I get a kiss?”

“Not yet, I have to shave first!”

You hugged your legs and smiled as he ran to the bathroom. “Cute.” You grabbed your phone and noticed there were a lot of notifications waiting for you. You slowly read through them all, and each one was positive and supportive. It seemed your report was opening eyes and causing news reports to go after the people you pointed at. Seeing the news go live, chasing these people for comments was interesting. A part of you wondered what can of worms had you unlocked.

“You okay?”

You looked up at Levi, his face cleanly shaven and soft. “Come here, handsome, I want to touch your baby face.”

He chuckled and sat on the bed. “All yours.”

You plopped your phone on the bed and began touching his soft, smooth face. “Lovely.”

“I’m glad.” He massaged your thigh. “So?”

“The news and social media are going crazy; they’re trying to get statements from the people I investigated. It’s rather exciting.” You kissed along his jaw. “It’s exciting and scary, but I know I’m safe with you.” You pulled back and hummed. “I’m worried a bit about Bruce. I’ve kind of ruined his life.”

“A little. It’s exciting, though. I’m proud of you.”

“Are you going to swoop in and take his bars?”

Levi smirked. “Maybe.” He took your hands from his face. “I’m thinking maybe one of the shops I’ll gift to you, so you can turn it into anything you want.” He kissed your hands. “What do you think?”

You whined and flopped onto his lap. “You’re too good to me.”

He played with your hair and chuckled. “I just love you so much. I just want the best for you.”

“I’ll have a think.”

Chapter Text

Mike pulled the car door open before offering his hand. He smiled as you climbed out of the car, texting on your phone. “Boss messaging you already? You only left him about ten minutes ago.”

You giggled. “You know what he’s like.”

“He’ll be calling you next.”

You hummed as you walked with him to the shopping mall. “I don’t think so…oh.”

Mike laughed. “Told you.”

“I’ll see what’s going on with him.” You tapped your phone. “Hello, sexy husband.”

Levi moaned your name. “My cute bunny. I miss you.”

“I miss you too.” You smiled at Mike as he opened the front door. “Thank you, Mike.” You moved the phone back. “Don’t you have a meeting to go to?”

“I’m in it now.”

You gasped. “Levi, you shouldn’t be calling me if you’re in a meeting.”

He huffed. “I don’t care what the others think, you’re the most important thing in my life.”

You nibbled your lip at his words. “Don’t let your mum hear that.”

He chuckled. “She knows I love her, but she also knows that you’re my everything.”

“I’m just winding you up.”

He huffed at your words. “You’re mean to me.”

“The meanest.” You picked a few things and took them to the till. “You should divorce me.”

“Never in a million years.”

You paid with the card Levi gave you. “Oh, so there is a chance.”

He growled at your words. “Take it back.”

“I’m kidding. You know I would never.”

“Oh, you bought a few things.”

You smiled when Mike took your shopping bag. “Thanks, Mike, and yes, Levi, I bought a few things. You know, you shouldn’t spy on your wife.”

“You’re saying that, and yet I stalked you.”

You grinned. “You did!”

He softly said your name. “Could you pass your phone to Mike? I want a word.”

You offered your phone to Mike. “My husband wants a word.”

Mike took your phone. “Thank you. Hello, husband!”

You laughed at him. “I can just tell Levi’s reaction.”

Mike winked at you. “Yeah, yeah, Levi. I know, protect her or you’ll cut my nose and balls off. I’ve got this under control…she’s fine, I’m looking at her right now.” He smirked. “Come on, Levi. You want me to check on her, but I can’t look at her?” He offered the phone back. “Talk some sense into him.”

You heard Levi ranting and shouting for Mike. “Levi?”

His voice softened. “Hello, darling bunny. I still need a word with Mike.”

“No.”

“No?”

You walked over to a jewellery shop and admired what they had. “You’re being mean to Mike. He’s doing his job really well.” You walked inside the shop. “As punishment, you can’t talk to me for five minutes.”

“What!?” He was in shock. “No!”

You muted your mic and smiled at the shop owner. “Could I get this ring, please?”

He got it out of the case. “Here you are. Is this in his size?”

You checked it. “Oh, needs to be one size up and it’s perfect.”

“I’ll go get one.”

Mike leaned against the counter. “You torturing your husband?

“Yes.” You smiled at Mike. “I’m allowed to. I’m just putting him in time out for being mean.” You perked up once the man returned. You paid for the ring with your own card, so Levi didn’t see, and left with Mike. “I’ll unmute him now.” You tapped the unmute. “You going to be a good boy now?”

“…yes…”

You giggled. “You’re so cute. I’ll give you lots of kisses when I get home.”

“I love you.”

“I love you too.”

Levi released a long sigh. “I’ll behave now.”

“Good boy.” You stopped in front of a shop. “Oh, plushies!”

“You don’t need more, you have me to cuddle.”

Mike folded his arms. “Let me guess, he said, you don’t need anymore because you have me?”

You tapped your nose. “You got it! Mike knows you so well, Levi.”

“We’re the perfect couple.”

“Mike says you’re the perfect couple.”

Levi sighed. “It’d drive me insane if he married me.”

You looked up at Mike. “Sorry, it’s not true love.”

Mike snapped his fingers. “Damn it.” His smile changed a bit. “Excuse me, I’m just going to manhandle you.”

You frowned. “Manhandle?” You squealed when he wrapped his big arm around you before yanking you against his solid chest and rushing into the shop, pulling you against the wall by the window just as a bullet shattered the glass. “What the fuck is happening?”

“Someone tried to shoot you.” He grabbed your phone. “Borrowing this. Levi? We’ve got a situation.” He hugged you as you flinched at another bullet whizzing past. “Someone is trying to kill your wife. Don’t worry, I’m keeping her safe, but we’re stuck in the plushie shop.” He looked down at you. “Do you hand a mirror?”

You opened your handbag. “I should.” You screamed out in pain as a bullet ripped through your shoulder.

Mike dragged you quickly from the doorway to another spot. “Fuck, I’m sorry.”

You pressed your hand to your wound. “It’s okay. The shooter must have moved to get a different angle.” You flinched when you heard a lot of gunfire. “What’s going on?”

“That doesn’t sound like our men.” He placed your phone on the floor as he began tending to your wound. “Levi, your wife has been shot in the shoulder. I’m tending to the wound now. There are active shooters in the shopping mall.” He yanked the cloth tightly on your wound, making you wince. “Sorry, it’s got to go on tight.”

“I trust you.” You picked up your phone. “Levi. I’m here, my love.”

Levi called your name. “We’re on our way! Listen to Mike, okay?”

You leaned your head back against the wall. “I will. I’m tired.”

“Getting shot makes you tired.”

“Let me guess, you’ve been shot before.”

“I have.”

You smiled a little. “I want to go home and sleep.”

“I’ll get you home, I promise.”

You looked up when you heard your name shouted. “Oh…that sounds like Bruce.”

Levi growled. “Tch, that son of a bitch. Don’t go near him!”

Your eyes widened as Bruce stumbled into the shop and followed your blood to you, his hair falling out of place and a gun in his hand. He moved closer with a smile. “There you are! I’m so glad I got to you, little bird.”

You winced. “It was you shooting up the place?”

“Kind of.” He flicked his gaze up. “Mind telling your man to stand down?”

You could feel the aura Mike was giving off, and he likely had a gun pointed at Bruce. “He can do as he likes. So, you came to stop the shooter? Are you stalking me?”

“Of course, I’m stalking you.” He scratched his head with the end of his gun. “Odd you ask that. I’m always watching over you.”

“Alright, then, who tried to kill me?”

Bruce struggled. “Unsure yet.” He winced slightly when a bullet grazed his cheek, but then it clicked in his mind, the trajectory. He heard shouting, Mike shouting—Mike was shouting at him and blaming him. He brought attention to you. “I…” You were bleeding more and being dragged away; you were running out of hiding spots.

Mike kept apologising to you as he hid you behind the counter. “I’m supposed to protect you.”

You smiled sweetly. “I’m okay. You’ve done a wonderful job.”

“I haven’t.” You could see he was breaking. “I failed you.”

You reached up and caressed his cheek. “Am I dead?”

“No…”

“Then you’ve done a perfect job. Levi will see that. This second time, I was shot because of Bruce.”

Mike pressed the wound on your side. “That damn man.”

You hummed a bit as you worked through the pain. “At least I’ll have scars to match Levi.”

Mike laughed. “You’re right.”

“There’s my friend. You know, you’re more handsome to look at when you’re laughing and smiling, not when you’re sulking.”

He shook his head as he smirked. “Cheeky buggar.”

“Glad you’re better now.”

“I’ll feel a bit better, but I’ll feel great when you stop bleeding.”

“Oh, I’m sorry, how rude of me, I’ll just stop it now.”

Mike smiled. “Levi really has married a gem of a woman.” He lifted his head and heard more gunfire. “That sounds like Levi.”

You patted yourself. “My phone. I was on the phone with Levi.”

“I grabbed it.” He fished it out of his pocket. “I had to end the call.”

You checked and saw missed calls from Levi. “I think he panicked. I’ll call him back.” Before you did, you heard Levi bellow your name. “Levi?” You tapped on your phone and texted him your location. “I don’t want to give away where we are to whoever is shooting at me.” You squeaked when Levi leapt over the top of the counter and dropped down. “Levi.”

Levi smiled at you, blood spattered all over his clothes and face. “Bunny!”

“Is that blood?”

“It’s not mine.” His smile faded when he noticed blood on you. “Bunny…”

Mike gave Levi a rundown of your wounds. “I’ve stopped the bleeding. We need to get her to the hospital as soon as possible.”

Levi cupped your face. “I’m sorry you got hurt.”

You placed your hand on one of his. “It’s okay. Mike was amazing, so please don’t be mean to him. Bruce gave my location away, so I got shot a second time.”

Levi kissed under your eye, making you hum. “I won’t be mean to him, don’t worry. If someone else were here, you’d be dead.” He looked up at Mike. “Thank you.”

Mike bowed his head. “Anytime. Is the shooter gone?”

“Not yet. I’m hoping this lures them out.” He kissed you before shifting and peering around the counter to see that Bruce was gone, possibly trying to find the shooter. “They’ll come.”

You shifted a bit. “Who is it? Is Prescilla trying to kill me?”

“Surprisingly, no. It’s someone you pissed off with your report.”

You groaned. “Great. Who?”

Levi glanced back. “The mayor.”

Mike laughed. “Well done, Mrs Ackerman, you have the mayor after you.”

You hummed. “Wait, has he never hunted Levi down?”

“Nope.”

You gasped in delight. “That’s cool.”

Levi glanced back at you. “It’s not, my darling bunny.”

“Jealous.”

He released a long sigh, he knew very well you were trying to soothe him, but he was conflicted on whether he should play along or tell you off. “Bunny.” He flinched when he heard shoes. “Hush a moment.” He peered out again to see the shooter walking in and looking at the blood on the floor. “Tch, got you.” He lined up his pistol and shot the man in the shoulder, causing him to drop the gun and then his foot. “Fucker!”

You watched in awe as Levi sprinted out. “Look at him go.”

Mike scooped you up like a bride. “Excuse me. Try not to look at your husband.”

“Why? He's beating the shooter?”

“Yes, so it’s best you don’t see him like this.”

You rested the side of your head against Mike’s shoulder. “I’m tired.”

He shifted you a little. “Hold on a bit longer.” He hurried over to Levi. “Levi? She’s getting tired and cold. We need to go.”

Levi stopped hitting the shooter and panted. “Right. Give her to me and make sure you take this piece of shit.”

Mike handed you over to your husband. “I’ll drag him to the base. Let me know how she is.”

“Promise.”

It was hard to keep track of what was going on when you were slipping in and out. All you knew was that Levi was very panicked, and even Bruce appeared. The two argued while rushing around with you. A hushed mumble from you made them stop and focus on your well-being. Levi had difficulty leaving you with doctors and nurses, but he knew it was for the best. Bruce was kicked out after a bit of fighting. Before you knew it, you’d drifted off into a deep sleep.

“Do you need anything else?” Levi questioned you, his hands playing with yours. “I can give you anything you want.”

You admired your husband as you sat in bed at home. Normally, people would keep someone like you in a hospital, but Levi insisted you heal at home. “I’m okay.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes.”

He whined a little. “But…”

You hummed a laugh. “Okay, I know what I want.”

He perked up at your words. “Really? What do you need?”

“Put your head on my lap, I want to play with your hair and pet your head.”

He blushed a little before doing as you asked. “As you command, sweet bunny.”

You placed your good hand on his head and played with his soft raven hair. “Mm, perfect.”

Levi nuzzled his face against your lap. “Are you sure this is for you, because it seems more for me.”

“Both.”

“I’m glad I could provide.”

You released a long sigh as your body relaxed. “Thank you.”

Levi rolled onto his back to look at you. “What for?”

“Everything.”

Levi frowned at your words. “What are you planning?” He sat bolt upright. “You’re not leaving me, are you?”

You laughed. “No, no, I just wanted to thank you. Don’t worry, I’m not going anywhere.”

Levi grabbed the headboard on either side of you. “Promise.”

You locked eyes with the love of your life. You leaned closer and kissed him. “Promise.”

“Tch.” A blush engulfed his face. “Again.”

You kissed him as he asked. “You can have as many as you want.”

He gently kissed you at first before passionately kissing you over and over until he caught himself. “Sorry, I’m getting too needy.”

“I don’t mind.”

He lay his head against your chest. “I do mind. I don’t want you to get hurt. You’re one arm is out of commission until it heals.”

You placed your hand on the back of his head. “I love you.”

Levi wrapped his arms tightly around you. “I love you so much.”

“You’re not going to go crazy on me, are you?” You stared at your husband’s head as silence filled the room. “Levi?” He didn’t say a word. “Levi Ackerman.” You pulled on his ear. “Answer me.”

Levi leaned up and bit your neck before jumping off the bed. “I have somewhere to be.”

“Levi! If you don’t answer me, I will think about divorce.”

He froze in his path. “You wouldn’t.” He turned to face you. “I love you.”

You got out of bed, making him panic. “I love you too, but you can’t be locking me up all the time.”

He rushed over to you and checked you all over. “Are you okay? Does anything hurt? You shouldn’t be up and moving around.”

“I’m not weak.”

“I know you’re not, but you’re still healing.”

“I can handle a bit of walking around.” You wrapped your arms around his middle and hugged him. “I love you.”

He cupped the back of your head and held you close. “I love you too, which is why I worry so much. You were shot twice.”

You looked up at him. “But I’m alive.” You gasped in delight. “Which reminds me! Where are the things I bought?”

“In the living room.”

You released him and shuffled through the bedroom. “I need to get to them.”

“Let me escort you.” He easily scooped you up and carried you through the home to the living room. “I always have to escort you, my Queen.”

You patted his cheeks. “I could eat you up.”

“I love it when you do.”

You kissed his cheek repeatedly. “Tasty husband.” You nipped his cheek. “With the cutest cheeks in the world. I bet our babies will have the cutest of cheeks.”

Levi’s cheeks burned. “They will.” He squeezed you a little. “I really want babies with you as soon as we can, but I’m also glad we haven’t started yet because you got shot.” He placed you on the bed. “I don’t know what I would have done if…”

You held his hand. “Don’t think about it. We’re together and in love.” You kissed the back of his hand. “You’re never getting rid of me.”

“Good.”

“Now, sit with me.”

He sat next to you and placed his arm around you. “Here are your goodies you bought.” He smiled. “You did so well buying all this, I’m proud of you.”

“Thank you.” You picked up a small bag. “I spent some of my own money.”

He pinched your cheek. “Naughty.”

“It’s for a good reason!” You handed him the bag. “It’s a present for you.”

“Me?”

You wiggled the bag in front of your surprised husband. “Yes. Take it.”

He carefully took the bag and pulled out the ring box. “What…” He opened the ring box, causing his heart to race. “This…this is beautiful.”

“I thought it’d look perfect on you.”

“You…” His shoulders dropped as exhaustion melted away. “You are the best thing in my life.” He slipped the ring on. “I won’t let anyone hurt you ever again.”

“I know.”

He held your hand. “Thank you. I love the gift. I’ll never take it off.”

You nuzzled your nose against Levi’s. “I know something you can take off.”

“I would love to ravage you, but we can’t. You need to heal up.”

You leaned against Levi and sighed. “Bum.”

He cuddled you tightly. “Yes, bum.”

“I’m tired.”

“Tired?” He looked down at you. “Oh, my sweet bunny, don’t cry.”

You sniffed a little. “I don’t mean to.”

He kissed your forehead. “Your body is going through a lot emotionally and mentally. It’s okay to let it all out. You can lean on me.”

You slipped onto Levi’s lap and straddled him. “Hold me?”

He wrapped his arms around you. “Of course.” He grunted a little as you moved your hips. “Stay still, okay?”

“Sorry.”

He rubbed your back. “Don’t be sorry, I’m just a very horny man.”

You giggled as you rested your head on his shoulder. “To think, before me, you were never that horny.”

“You unlocked the real me.”

You inhaled his scent. “My perfect husband.”

He rubbed your back. “I’m not perfect.”

“You are to me.”

“But.”

You kissed his neck a little. “Don’t argue with me.”

“Forgive me.”

You closed your eyes. “Forgiven.”

Levi smiled softly as he held you. This was his bliss, to have you in his arms all day and night. He wanted the world to go away, so it was only the two of you. His happiness when he heard someone walk in. He glanced up to see a butler. “Yes?”

The butler bowed. “Forgive me for interrupting, but a few deliveries have arrived.”

“I didn’t order anything, and I don’t think Bunny has.”

“They’re from Mr Redwood, get well gifts. Would you like me to burn them, trash them or return them?”

“Donate them.” Your voice was soft and muffled from Levi’s neck against your lips. “Give it to those in need.”

Levi kissed the side of your head. “She’s right. Send the gifts to those in need. We don’t need them. I spoil my bunny plenty.”

“Too much.”

He hushed you. “Not enough. You need more.”

You pocked his cheek a few times. “Naughty.”

“One of the reasons you love me.” He kissed your head a few times. “Now, sleep a bit.”

You nuzzled his neck. “This isn’t over, Mr.”

He kissed your head a few times. “Of course, you can fight me later.” He waited a moment before speaking. “We’ll need to go through those gifts. Anything inappropriate to donate needs to burn.”

The butler bowed. “We’ll get it sorted. Does the lady need anything else?”

“She says no…” Levi sighed. “I want to do more.”

“Perhaps a holiday? It’s a chance to get away from this all.”

Levi smiled at the idea. “Yeah, that’s a good idea.” His mind raced with ideas. “She deserves the perfect holiday. We can go somewhere where she can enjoy the snow.”

“Maybe a couples spa also.”

“I’ll look at a few options while she’s healing. Thank you.” Levi looked down at you as his staff hurried around with the gifts. “You deserve everything.”

Chapter Text

“Any ideas for your new story?” Li questioned.

You hummed in thought, the crisp winter air biting at your cheeks as the rest of you was cosy and warm from Levi putting you in thick, cute winter clothing. You took a sip of your coffee as you continued to think. “I have a few ideas. Nothing major like before, I don’t think the city can take it.” You pulled open the door to the offices. “Possibly an investigation into the casinos.”

Li slipped into the lobby and waited for you. “I can start digging into the numbers. You sure Levi will be okay with this?” He turned and began walking with you to the lift. “He does own some.”

“He’s aware and even told me about a few fucked up ones. Everyone knows casinos are rigged.” You pressed the lift button. “They have to make money somehow, but there are a few he’s told me about. I’m going to look into it all under his guidance. Working with you would be wonderful.”

“I’m always here to help.” He let you go into the lift first before joining you. “It’ll be interesting to break the numbers down.”

You leaned against the wall of the lift. “Kind of fucked that people have just accepted it for all these years.”

“Well, they don’t know it any other way.”

You tapped your cup against your lip. “Suppose so.”

“It’ll be interesting to see how bad it is, though.” He shivered. “You’ve got me all excited.”

You giggled as you walked out of the lift on your floor. “I’m glad. We can work together.”

“I always like it when we do.” He bumped against you. “You’re my favourite person.”

“You’re mine too.”

“Don’t let Levi know.” He walked with you to your private office. “He’ll kill me.”

You placed your things on your desk. “He is a bit possessive, bless him.”

He opened the side door to his office. “Can I leave this open again?”

“Of course.”

“You putting on music?”

You hummed a laugh. “Always.” You logged into everything and began working on your article. You sent things to Li so he could have a look. “Interesting stuff.” You flicked your gaze up when someone entered your office. “Hello?”

Prescilla looked even worse than the last time you saw her. “We need to talk.”

You released a long sigh. “Prescilla, please leave my office.”

“I want to talk to you.”

“You’re not supposed to be here.”

She closed your door. “I will not be closed out. This is my only chance to speak with you without your wolves around.”

You tapped on your phone and sent a quick SOS to Levi. “Talk. Say what you need to and leave.”

“You ruined my life.”

You groaned. “Again with this. You were told before, this is your own doing.”

She slammed her hands on your desk. “This office was mine!”

You folded your arms and sat back. “I worked my ass off to get this position, this office.”

“You fucked a mafia leader! He gave you everything.”

“I researched my piece before him; he just helped me a little.” You released the sigh. “He understood there was a chance I could ruin him, but that’s just the kind of man he is and how much he loves me. I’m working on another piece that could cause him issues. My husband understands and loves me.”

She shook her head. “You’ll end up ruining your own life. You’re a selfish bitch!”

You clenched your jaw a little. “I’m not-.”

“You are!” She laughed. “Did you ever stop to think what you’re doing to other people? I didn’t, and look at me! Levi will lose everything because you want to be successful.” She leaned closer. “He’ll hate you.”

“You-.”

“I know what I’m talking about. You’ve fucked your life up.”

You clenched your fist. “He loves me and I would never-.”

“But you have.” She laughed at you. “You have!” She pointed at you. “You’re just like me. You’ll end up divorced and alone with men chasing after you. You’re a woman who ruins others for your own gain.”

“I.” You jumped when you heard a bang go off. Prescilla stumbled a bit before dragging some stuff off your desk and slamming to the floor.

Bruce lowered his gun and sighed. “That’s enough of that.” He smirked as she cried and whimpered on the floor. “You are spouting shit, it’s really annoying. I and Levi would be honoured if she ruined us.”

Prescilla sobbed. “You’re a monster.”

“I know.” He released a long sigh. “And I’m proud.”

“You two are perfect for each other!”

Bruce grinned at you. “Hear that? We’re perfect.”

You gulped hard. “Bruce, put the gun away.”

He laughed. “Sorry, sorry, I know you don’t like them, little bird.” He undid his blazer before sitting down. “I came to talk to you.” He clicked his fingers so his men hurried to Prescilla and blocked the doors. “I’m so sorry for her poison words.” He gasped when you sobbed a little. “Oh…” He hurried over to you, knelt and wiped your tears. “Don’t cry.”

There was a mix of emotions inside of you; you were upset that Prescilla was right about your path to being a successful reporter, but it also scared you that Bruce had gotten into your building and shot the woman in front of you. All you could do was cry and just hope Levi would forgive you for what you were doing to him, and possibly save you. You felt like shit and you were scared, scared Bruce would hurt you, hurt others and scared Levi would leave you.

“Breathe.” Bruce's words were a little soothing. “Breathe for me.”

“I have to leave.” You stumbled to your feet as Prescilla screamed in pain from a guard stepping on her wound. “Now.”

Bruce blocked your path. “I’ll take you somewhere.”

You shook your head as you began hyperventilating; it was all too much for you, and the guilt was strong from multiple thoughts that popped into your head. “I-I.”

Bruce caught you when you collapsed. “Whoa, little bird!” He chuckled, but noticed you weren’t moving. “Little bird?” He shifted you in his arms. “Poor thing passed out.” He picked you up and held you close to him. “Don’t you worry, little bird, I’ll take great care of you.”

A guard nudged Prescilla with his foot. “What are we doing with this bitch?”

“Leave her to bleed.” He gazed at you. “I have something important to take care of.”

“Got it, boss.”

Bruces squeezed you. “You are so adorable.” He carefully carried you through the building and into his waiting car. “Home, please.” He held you close as the car drifted through the city, while you were moving away from where you worked. Levi was rushing over, but too late. “I’ll take care of you.”

You woke up utterly exhausted mentally and physically. Bruce had taken you home, so you’d been with him for days. You were always dressed up in the best clothes Bruce could buy, but it wasn’t things you liked or wanted. You wanted to go home to Levi. A lot of the time, you spend curled up in bed, and others you try to escape the home, only to be stopped by a guard or Bruce. If a guard stopped you, he would be beaten by Bruce for touching you. You didn’t want anyone to get hurt, so you stopped trying.

“Little bird?” Bruce moved closer to you as you lay in bed. “How about we do something fun today? I have a home full of things you can do. I know at first, it was just lots of mirrors and boring health stuff, but now I’ve put in fun things for you.”

You released a long sigh. “I’m not interested.”

“Come on, little bird. I have a claw machine for you.”

You sat up and stared at him. “If I say yes, will you leave me alone for a bit?”

“Yes.”

You climbed out of bed and sighed. “Fine, let's get this over with.”

He took your hand and pulled you along. “You look divine, my little bird.”

“I guess.”

He walked through his vast home until he reached a little garage area with games from an arcade. “How fun is this?”

You looked up at him. “It’s okay.”

He hummed a little as he studied you. “More enthusiasm.”

You stared at him before walking over to the claw machine. “So, how does this work? Do I need coins?”

“You can play by putting in these tokens.”

You took the token and looked at it. “Does…does this have your face on?”

“Yep!”

You rolled your eyes. “Okay.” You put the token in and used the claw machine to grab a little chibi doll. You got it easily, meaning it was rigged in your favour to win. You bent and grabbed the toy, but paused a moment. “Are you kidding me?” In your hand was a chibi Bruce.

“Isn’t it good?”

You gave him the plushie. “Here.”

His eyes lit up. “You won it for me?”

“I guess…”

He squeezed it tightly. “This is perfect. Thank you.”

“Sure.” You walked away from him and looked around the room. “What other stuff is here? Do you have food or drink?”

He hurried over to the bar where a member of staff was waiting. “Right here. Order anything you want.”

You walked over and sighed. “Do you do milkshakes?”

The man nodded. “Yeah. I can make you anything you want.”

“I’ll just take a chocolate.” You looked over at Bruce when he made a noise. “What? You going to judge me? I eat and drink whatever I want.”

Bruce watched you drink your milkshake. “You should think more about what you drink and eat.”

You burped a bit. “And you should think more about your actions. You kidnapped me after shooting someone in front of me. You have no right to judge me.”

“You’re under my roof.”

You walked away from him. “Which you forced me to be in.” You glanced back at him. “Don’t want me here, then let me go.”

He chuckled. “Smart bird. I’m not letting you go.”

You returned to the bedroom and sat in a comfy seat by the window. “Are you happy?”

“What?”

You looked over at him. “Are you happy?”

“I don’t understand.”

You placed your drink down. “Then I guess you’re not happy.” You huffed. “You really need to assess your life. Consider what makes you happy. Are you pleased that you have a woman locked up in your house who doesn’t love you and never will? Are you happy with the things you do and your life?”

He clenched his jaw a little. “Why wouldn’t I be happy?”

“I don’t know, you tell me.”

He stormed closer to you. “You!”

“Go on, hit me.” You stood up. “Like you did to Prescilla for a while. You’ll get bored with me just like you got bored with her. You’re like a kid demanding a toy, but as time goes on, it no longer interests you.”

“I would never hurt you.”

You grabbed his tie, yanked him down to your level, causing him to blush hard. “I’m tired, you need to leave.”

“I-I uh…”

You dragged him along by the tie until you reached the hall. “I’m dropping you off here.”

“I liked that.”

You walked past him. “Get someone else to do it.” You slammed the bedroom door and lay on the bed. “I just want to go home.” You lightly napped, but a quiet thud on the roof woke you up. You stared at the ceiling as someone walked along to the balcony to your room, paused and jumped down. You sat bolt upright as your heart raced. “Levi?”

He turned and smiled at you. “There you are.” He pushed the slide door open before walking over. “Did you enjoy your little vacation away from me?”

You hugged Levi as you cried. “No.”

He rubbed your back. “I’m sorry. I’ll get you home. No more vacations without me, okay?”

“Okay.”

He lifted you and carried you out onto the balcony. “Okay, little bunny. We are going to do a bit of climbing, so if you get scared, just close your eyes.”

You nodded. “Promise.”

“Hop on my back.”

“Are you sure?”

“Come on.” He shifted your legs around his waist when you climbed on. “Light as a feather. Plus, your boobs are against my back.”

You hugged him tightly. “A nice bonus.” You closed your eyes and inhaled his scent. “You smell like home and love.”

“You smell the same to me.” He climbed the wall and got up onto the roof with a grunt. “Though your smell makes me a tad horny.”

You giggled. “You make me feel things when I smell you.”

“I’m glad that I make you feel things, my perfect wife.” He ran across the roof until he reached the side he’d climbed up. The security was terrible in this spot. Levi had watched Bruce’s home for days to make sure he could sneak in to get you. He turned around and slowly climbed down. “Hold on tightly.”

You squeezed your husband as he slowly climbed down. “If this weren’t so scary, I would be so impressed. You broke in, stole me and now are climbing the wall to free me.”

Levi chuckled. “You can be impressed when we get home.”

“Yeah.”

He jumped the last bit and looped his arms under your bum and thighs. “Almost to the car and the team waiting.”

“Levi?” Your voice was soft. “Can we talk when we get somewhere safe?”

“Sure.” He looked back at you. “This sounds like divorce talk.”

You squeezed him and hid your face. “Thank you for saving me.”

He put you down next to the car as the team rushed around. “Bunny, you didn’t deny it.” He moved back a bit. “Are you wanting a divorce? Do you love Bruce now?”

You shook your head. “No, no, I don’t love him at all.”

He sighed. “Good, but what about the divorce part?”

You welled up. “Levi, I’m ruining your life.”

He hushed you and wiped away your tears. “Ruining? No, no, you make my life better. Why would you think that you’re ruining it?”

You sobbed as you told Levi what Prescilla had talked to you about. “I just…I feel like maybe, just maybe, all my investigating is just ruining your life.”

He scooped you up and climbed into the car so you could have privacy. “Listen to me.” He said your name as he cupped the side of your face. You knew he was serious because he was using your name. “You’re not ruining anything, okay? I’ll be honest with you, the information I’ve been giving you has been helping me a lot. Your research has been stopping my rivals and people who wouldn’t do deals with me.” He gulped. “I’ve been using you a tiny bit, but it’s for good. I don’t think a single thing you’ve come out with has caused major issues for my businesses. I had to shift a few things around, but it’s all good. Besides, I want you to ruin me. It’d be hot if you did.”

You blinked a few times as you processed his words. “Wait, you’ve used me?”

“Only a tiny bit, and it was for the good of the city. Think about how many people you’ve stopped and put away.”

You whined a little. “Prescilla was right about the whole helping you and not getting what I did without you.”

He nodded. “Yes, she had that right.” He massaged your thigh. “Are you mad at me?”

You cupped his face and squeezed a little. “It’s impossible to be mad at this handsome and cute face. I mean, I get it. You saw an opportunity and thought, Why not?”

“Yes.”

You ran your thumb over his bottom lip. “The bonus for you is you get to fuck me whenever you want.”

He dragged you to straddle his lap. “Fuck? No, no, I don’t fuck you. I ravage you while I make love to you.” He licked your neck. “The bonus is being able to spend the rest of my life with you.” He grabbed your bum firmly, making you moan. “Making you my wife is a dream come true.” He kissed and sucked your neck. “I love you. I love you so deeply. You’re my life.”

You moaned as Levi kissed and bit your chest. You reached down and pulled at his trousers. “Is this private? Will your driver hear?”

“You can’t hear anything in here. Why?” He gasped when your hand wrapped around his hardened length. “Naughty bunny.”

You dragged your panties to the side and lowered down onto him, each inch of him spreading and filling you. “Mm.” You moved up and down on him. “Levi.”

“Look at my bunny bounce.” He grunted as you moved fast. “Did you miss me that much?”

You tangled your fingers in his hair and kissed him roughly. “Yes.” You mewled in delight. “I love you so much.” Your body began to tingle. “Fuck, you feel so good.”

Levi moved his hands over your body as he bucked up into you. “You feel incredible. My perfect wife.” He panted a bit. “Bunny, we have no protection.”

You gripped the back of the seat and rolled your hips. “Good. I want you to cum inside me.”

Levi grunted. “Tch, those are arousing words.”

“Good.”

He moved his hand down between the two of you and began moving his fingers against your clit. He grunted when you clenched him tightly and shivered. He felt utter bliss as you moved against him; his body burned with pleasure. He understood why you wanted to be intimate with him. You needed to be reminded that Levi was here and you were safe, that he loved you, and there was nothing bad between the two of you. With each thrust of his cock into you, your troubles just melted away.

You leaned your head back and tried out in pleasure as your orgasm ripped through your body. It’d been days locked up with Bruce, so feeling your husband for the first time in a while made your body burn. “A-Ah.”

Levi held you close, twisted his body and slammed you against the seat. He panted above you as you purred a little. He shifted his legs before pounding into you like an animal in heat. A charming smirk spread on his lips as he watched your back arch from the seat. He admired you, his wonderful wife, as you raised your hips from the seat and accepted Levi’s thick, hard cock pounding into you.

You gripped Levi’s wrist as your other hand reached behind you and gripped the seat. You moved your head back at the raw, intense passion that was your husband. “F-fuck. Don’t stop.”

Levi shifted his hand and locked fingers with you before pinning both your wrists above your head. “I won’t ever stop.” He panted above you. “I’ll ravage you until your pussy can’t take anymore. You’re mine, forever mine. I will follow you in every lifetime and death.”

You purred. “Good. I’ll be with you forever.”

“Good girl.”

You clenched your toes tightly. “I m-miss your body.”

“Don’t worry, I’ll get naked for you at home.”

“Levi.”

He leaned down as he smirked. “That’s a cute whimper from you.” He kissed you and sighed through his nose. “Is that what you wanted?”

You shook your head and mewled. “I need you to cum inside me.”

He moaned at your words. “What perfect words.”

“Please.”

He chuckled. “I can’t say no to my cute wife.” He released your wrists, wrapped his arms around you and began bucking hard. “I’ll give it to you.” He bit and sucked your neck. “I’ll give you everything I’ve built up for you. I need to claim you.” He kissed you roughly. “Take it all like a good girl.”

You turned your head and bit his shoulder as an orgasm consumed you; it fired through you so hard that your body shook around Levi. Your nails dragged over his back. “Levi.”

Levi thrusted a few more times before slamming in deep and cumming hard. He bucked again to make sure he could get as deep as possible, so you were filled with him. He moaned your name. “Nngh, fuck.” He rolled his hips slowly before kissing you. “Good bunny.”

You cupped his face as you panted. “Promise me you’ll give me more later?”

He turned his head and kissed your hand. “Of course, my wife gets everything and anything she wants.”

You wiggled his face. “Anything and everything?”

“Yes.”

You hummed. “So much power. I guess I’ll have a think.”

He chuckled at your words. “I look forward to hearing what you want.”

You sat in the bath, hugging your legs as you considered the past month. You’d been taken, Prescilla got shot, Li was a mess from not being able to save you, Levi’s gang was on a mission to destroy Bruce with Ava’s help, and Levi was also a horny beast. Christmas and Levi’s birthday were coming up. You wanted a holiday, and you knew Levi would agree to one if you asked.

“Hello, my love bunny.” Levi walked into the bathroom with a tray. “I thought you would be hungry.”

“I am a bit.”

He placed the tray down and took a seat in his usual spot. “I’ve got a nice drink for you, too.” He looked into the bath. “Mm, wife’s soapy boobs.”

You pocked his cheek. “All yours.”

He released a long sigh. “I just want to touch them so much.”

You picked up your drink. “Let me drink and eat a bit, and they’re all yours.”

He leaned on the edge of the bath and admired you. “I have the most beautiful wife in the world.”

You licked your lips after eating a snack. “Mm, thank you. I have the perfect husband.” You turned in the bathtub and leaned on the edge. “So sexy and handsome. I wanna eat you up.”

He wrapped his arms around you. “You’re welcome to do so.”

You gripped his shirt and tugged him close. “How about you take your clothes off and join me in the bath? I want to cuddle.”

“Yes, my darling bunny.”

You nibbled your lip. “You know you said you’d do anything for me?”

He yanked his shirt off and gazed at you. “Yes?”

You leaned more on the edge of the bathtub as you nibbled your lip. “Mind standing there naked for me?”

“I’d be honoured.”

You squealed in pure delight as Levi whipped his bottoms off and stood there nude for you. “So sexy.”

He put his arms out a little and slowly spun for you. “You like?”

“I love.” You purred at seeing all his muscles, scars and tattoos. His back had a few scratches from your nails. His muscles stood out on every inch of him, his powerful thighs that helped him thrust deep. His treasure tail to his package was perfection, so beautifully shaped and sexy. You adored the little dimples above his cute, plump bum. “I love you so much.”

He walked over and knelt in front of you. “I love you too.”

“You are so sexy.”

“Thank you, so are you. Do you have any other requests?”

You shifted in the bath. “Get in.”

He climbed into the bath and wrapped his arms around you. “This is the life.”

You lie back against him with your eyes closed. “You’re right.”

He kissed the side of your head and kept his lips there. “I could just nap right here.”

You ran your hand up and down his arm before kissing it. “What do you want for your birthday?”

“Mm, you.”

You hummed a laugh. “You get me every day.”

He smiled against your head. “True, but I want you even more.”

“I don’t know how that’s possible?”

He squeezed you tighter. “Mm, you have a point. Well, I’ll love anything to do with you.”

You turned in his arms a little. “I’ll think of something.”

He caressed your cheek. “Whatever you gift me will be wonderful.”

You traced patterns on his chest as you thought a little. “Levi?”

“Mm?”

“Do you want kids?”

He squeezed you. “I do.” He reached under the water, allowing him to massage your thigh. “I would love them. Do you?”

Your eyes sparkled. “So much! I would love a family with you.”

He nuzzled his nose against yours. “We can make that family anytime you want. You set the pace for us.”

“You are one incredible man, Levi Ackerman.”

“I’m incredible because you’re my wife.”

You hugged Levi. “I love you so much.”

He closed his eyes and massaged his fingers in your wet hair. “I love you, too. You’re everything to me.”

You closed your eyes. “I was scared I’d never see you again. I started giving up.”

“Bunny.”

You wiggled against Levi. “Please, forgive me for that.”

He kissed the top of your head a few times. “There’s nothing to forgive, okay? You were scared and lonely. Someone told you terrible things and made you doubt yourself.”

“Can we get out and cuddle in bed?”

“Of course.” He helped you out of the bath, wrapped you up in a towel and did the cleaning routine he always did. “Go wait on the bed.”

“Can I wear one of your shirts?”

“Yes.”

You squeaked in delight before running away. You dried off before yanking on a shirt of Levi’s and comfy pants. You jumped into bed and wiggled a little so you were comfy. “I’m ready!”

Levi walked around the room with a towel low on his hips. “I’m here, little bunny.”

“Hurry.”

He chuckled. “I’m moving as fast as I can.”

“No fast enough.”

He yanked on some boxers before diving under the covers. He crawled up and began kissing his way up your body, making you giggle. He lifted his body with the duvet on his head. “I’m here.”

You cupped his face. “So cute.”

“Let’s cuddle then.” He lay against you and hummed in delight. “Perfect.”

Chapter Text

You unrolled the wrapping paper, lined up Levi’s gift, and started cutting the paper. You glanced up at the TV and watched the news report again about the Christmas event on the beach that you and Levi had helped organise. “I’m glad it’s going well.”

Li hummed as he taped up a gift. “All the events held so far have been exceptional. It’s been fun assisting.” He looked over at you. “How are you faring?”

You released a long sigh. “I get nightmares some nights, but Levi’s been amazing. He holds me for a bit until I’m all better.”

“I’m glad.”

You looked over at him. “How are you?”

He played with his cup a little. “I struggle sometimes. You were taken, and I did nothing.”

You shuffled closer to your dear friend. “Li.”

He yanked his glasses off as he started to sob. “S-Sorry.” He rubbed his tears away. “I uh…I don’t know what came over me.”

You wrapped your arms around him. “It’s okay. I would be the same if I heard and saw you being taken after someone was shot.”

He squeezed you before releasing you. “Thanks.” He pulled back and sighed. “I’m good. Knowing you’re here with me is all I need. I can’t lose my friend.”

“You won’t lose me.”

“Good.”

You pocked his cheek. “I can’t lose you either.”

He smiled. “You won’t.” He cleared his throat. “Do you need another drink?”

You looked around Li’s clean and fancy apartment in a high-rise. “A tea would be good.”

He rose to his feet. “I’ll get one.” He wobbled on his feet and almost fell on you when a huge explosion shook the place. “What?”

You jumped up and raced to the window. Both of you looked out to see smoke in the distance. “Explosion at a building? Whereabouts?”

Li muttered under his breath as he slowly figured it out. “I think…”

You looked over as he went white. “What?”

He looked over at you. “Uh…”

You laughed nervously. “Li?”

“It’s in an area where there is a casino and a few bars.”

“Yeah?” Your smile lowered a bit. “Li.”

“I uh…”

“Li, please.”

He moved closer. “He’s fine. He’s Levi Ackerman.”

You welled up a little as you began to panic, but you pushed it down. “Right, you’re right.” You hurried over to the TV as they talked about breaking news. You watched in pure horror as the casino your husband owned was in flames, people were in the streets being tended to, and some faces you recognised. “Oh, god…”

“He’s alive.” He put his hand on your back. “Call him.”

You fumbled with your phone and called your husband. “Come on, Levi.” You welled up when it rang until you got voicemail. “He always picks up.”

“Try again.”

You did as he said, but again it went to voicemail. “He’s not picking up.”

“Keep trying.”

You gripped your phone and locked eyes with Li. “I don’t know what to do without him. He’s my life.”

“He’ll be okay.”

You went to speak, but the front door went. You turned and stared intently as your husband walked in with his arms full of gifts and snacks. “Levi?”

He grunted as he juggled everything. “Sorry for coming in, I just wanted to drop by and check on you both.” He looked up to see you in tears and Li in shock. “Something happen?”

You choked a sob. “Levi.”

He shoved everything on the side and hurried over to you. “I’m here.” He wrapped you up in his arms. “I’m here.”

You hugged him tightly. “Leviiiii.”

He rubbed your back. “I’m here.” He looked over at Li. “What happened?”

Li pointed to the TV. “An explosion went off in your casino.”

Levi watched the news for a bit as you cried hard. “Tch, shit.”

“You might need to make some calls.”

He fished his phone out of his pocket to see the missed calls. “Erwin? What the fuck is going on? Is anyone dead?”

Erwin sighed. “No deaths, just injuries. Luckily, we were setting up the place. It was early hours staff. Everyone is okay; only two have gone to the hospital. I’m one of them.”

“Are you okay?”

He grunted a bit. “Yeah, just got burns and shrapnel in my arm. I’m having it treated now.” He hissed. “Ow.” He chuckled at the nurse saying sorry. “It’s okay. Levi, we have this under control. I can imagine your wife needs you. Plus, it’s likely this is a distraction.”

“Take care of yourself, okay?”

“I will.”

Levi gripped his phone. “I want to be there for my people, but you’re right about this being a distraction. He’s going to come after my wife.”

“Exactly. Leave this with me, okay?”

He released a long sigh. “Okay.”

“I’ll call Ava, she’ll help. Take care of your wife.”

Levi looked down at you. “I will. Text me updates.”

“Will do.”

Levi ended the call. “Bunny.”

You pulled back and sniffed, you looked an adorable mess to him. “Honey.”

He cradled your face in his hands. “I’m here, I’m right here.”

Li finished hiding Levi’s presets and walked over. “Good to see you’re well. I believe Bruce doesn’t know where I live, so we should be safe.”

Levi picked you up and held you close. “Let’s hope he doesn’t know, but he could have followed me.”

“Do we need to move?”

“Possibly.”

You wiggled in Levi’s arms. “We can’t! It’s your birthday month!”

Levi looked up at you. “You cute little bunny, calm down, okay? We always have next year and the year after.”

You pouted a bit. “But I want it to be the two of us. What if next year we have a baby?” You softly mumbled.

Levi’s heart raced as his cheeks burned. “A baby, huh?”

You nodded. “You never know.”

He nuzzled your face and kissed you. “Sounds perfect for us. Are you pregnant?”

You looked away from him. “No…”

“Do you want to be?”

You jumped out of his arms. “I’m going to get something to drink.”

Li hummed a laugh as he watched you run off. “I think that’s a maybe. You’ll be great parents.”

Levi nodded. “I think so too.” He sighed and looked over at Li. “Thank you for looking after her.”

“She’s really excited about your birthday. I hope that Bruce stops what he’s doing soon.”

“He’s throwing a fit because I took my wife back from him.” Levi lowered his voice. “How are you?”

Li’s look darkened. “I feel awful sometimes, but then there are times when I remind myself it was out of my control.”

Levi patted his shoulder. “You helped me so much in finding her. You kept me updated when he was taking her. Thank you.”

Li smiled. “Thank you, that means a lot.”

“You have to understand, Li, Bruce is a force that’s impossible to stop. He was going to get her no matter what. If you had stepped in, you’d be dead.”

“I…you’re right…I wouldn’t want her to see something like that.”

“We’ll keep her happy and loved.”

You hugged your fluffy dressing gown around you as you watched the snow fall outside. “Pretty.” You tapped the panel to check the pool's temperature. “Hot, good.” You shuffled outside in your cosy boot slippers. You kicked them off under cover, whipped your dressing gown off and hurriedly jumped into the pool. “Mm, warm.” You swam around a little before leaning on the side and looking out at the city.

“What is my little bunny up to?”

You turned to Levi in the doorway. “Just splashing around.”

“Do you want some company?”

“Will it mean you being shirtless?”

“I can be naked if you want?”

You gasped at the idea. “Oh! That sounds exciting.”

He slowly unbuttoned his shirt. “What’s your choice?”

You patted the top of the water. “I don’t know! You’re asking too much of me.”

Levi laughed. “I have a very cute wife.” He yanked his things off. “I’ll get my shorts, otherwise my dick will float a little.”

“That’s not too bad.”

He pointed at you. “Behave.”

“Make me!”

He shook his head and shouted back. “I will!”

You twirled around in the water for a bit, waiting for your husband to return to you. “Levi?”

“I’m hurrying!”

“Faster! I need cuddles and kisses!”

“I’m coming as fast as I can!”

You leaned on the side. “I might find someone else to give me cuddles and kisses.”

“Don’t you dare!”

You nibbled your lip. “Oh, look, my phone. I can just call someone.”

Levi hurried out of the hotel room with a tray. “Impatient bunny.”

“Or, I’m teasing you.”

He placed the tray on the edge. “Naughty.” He jumped in and pushed his wet hair back, allowing you to see his charming face. “I should punish you.”

You shivered in pure delight. “Maybe.” You opened your arms. “Or, you should come here and cuddle me.”

He swam closer before wrapping his arms around you. “Yes.” He squeezed you as he hummed in delight. “I love you so much.”

“I love you too.”

He pulled back a little. “I got you something to eat and drink.”

“Thanks.”

He slipped behind you and pushed you to the edge. “Pick anything you want.”

You grabbed a glass of bubbly and sipped it. “Mm.”

“Good?”

“Yeah.”

He kissed your ear. “It’d be better with strawberries covered in chocolate.”

You picked one up. “I’ll try it.”

He hugged you from behind as he leaned and watched you. “Is it good?”

You hummed in delight. “Delicious.” You picked up another and offered it. “Try.”

He ate it happily as he licked his lips. “It’s good.” He kissed you with passion, his teeth tugging on your lip before pushing his tongue into your mouth. He slowly moved you to the wall and pressed you against it. He released your lips and began kissing along your jawline to your neck. His hand slipped up your body to massage your breast. He adored your little, cute moan. “I love you so much. You are just perfect.”

“I love you so much. My sweet husband.” You squeaked when Levi lifted you out of the pool and sat you on the side. “Levi, it’s cold!”

He stared at your breasts and joyfully watched as your nipples hardened. “I know.”

You covered your chest with your arms. “Pervert.”

“You’re blocking my wonderful view.”

You pocked his chest with your foot. “I’m cold, Mr.”

He massaged his hands up your legs nice and slow. “I can warm you up.”

“I know, but I would like the water and cuddles.”

He dragged you into his arms in the warm pool. “Better?”

“Yes.” You cupped Levi’s face and wiggled. “You’re just a horny man, huh?”

“Only for you.” He growled and bit your neck. “Mine.”

You giggled as he kept nipping and biting. “Levi, we should have sex in the hotel pool.”

He huffed a bit. “I suppose, but you mentioned babies the other day, and it’s on my mind a lot.”

You ran your hands down his chest. “We have plenty of time.”

“I know.” He perked up. “What if I ask as a birthday gift to try once?”

You snorted a laugh. “You really think you can stop at one?”

He pouted a little as he mumbled. “I could try.”

You pinched his plump cheeks. “All night.”

His eyes lit up with pure joy. “You spoil me.”

“If you had a tail, it’d be wagging.”

“It would!”

You went to speak again, but something stopped you—a light fluttering of snow falling. You looked up and admired the snow drifting down like tiny feathers dancing. There was so much beauty in the cold night air. You’d always loved winter, and a part of you felt it was fate that you fell in love with a man born in the middle of winter, reminding you so much of a crisp winter morning.

“It’s nice.” Levi’s voice was gentle and deep. “I never used to like different seasons, but now I adore them because it’s another season I can experience with you.”

You looked back down at your husband. “You’re so romantic.”

“I have my moments.” He saw your smile fade. “What’s wrong?”

You hummed a bit. “I’m just thinking about our situation.”

Levi hummed you close. “I get it. It’s hard to think about Bruce running wild in the city, but Ava is taking care of it all. We needed to get out of the city. Bruce knows you’re not there, so he’s calming down.”

You tapped your forehead against Levi’s shoulder. “I hate that to calm him down, I need to be out of the city.”

Levi massaged his fingers in your hair. “I’m sorry you feel that way. He’s a worthless piece of shit.”

“He is.”

“I’ll get rid of him, I promise.”

You nibbled your lip. “You’re gonna kill him, aren’t you?”

“He’s not giving me much of a choice. If he goes to prison, he’ll still have contacts and power.” He sighed. “It’s the only way.”

“I understand.”

“I know you don’t like it. You can hate me for it, but it really is the only way for me.”

You smiled at him. “I understand, Levi. It’s a life-or-death situation. When you’re facing a rabid animal, there is no escape. You do what you have to.” You gulped hard. “I’m okay with it.” You puffed your chest out with pride. “For our future and cute kids!”

Levi chuckled. “That’s it, my love. I’ll kill him, okay? I don’t want you to get your hands dirty.” He took your hands and covered them in kisses. “They’re too pretty.”

“Would you still love me if I had to?”

He locked eyes with you. “Yes, of course I would. I wouldn’t want you to do it because it’d plague your mind, you’d have nightmares and trauma. I don’t want that to happen to you.”

“You’re too kind.”

“Would you still love me?”

You nodded. “Yes. I’ll always love you. I love you, knowing you’ve probably already killed people and tortured others. I trust and love you just the way you are.”

He kissed you with a little purr. “Good.”

“Levi?”

“Mm?”

You reached behind your back and pulled at the bikini top. “Do you want an early birthday present?”

Levi’s eyes widened as your top floated away. “Sex in the pool?”

“How about a bit of kinky mating or breeding sex?”

He growled and pounced on you. “Yes!”

Levi leaned over the sofa and eyed your phone. “Who are you talking to?”

“Your mum.”

He flicked his eyes to the phone to see his mother on video. “Oh, hello, mother.”

Kuchel frowned. “What is with the odd wording, huh? You all grumpy, huh? You should take a nap.”

Levi sighed. “I don’t need a nap.”

“You do! You look tired, and knowing how much you love your adorable wife, she needs sleep, too. I swear I have an animal for a son.”

He groaned a little. “Mum.”

She glanced away. “Honey!? Come have a word with your son!” She looked back at the two of you. “Your father will have a word.”

“He doesn’t need to have a word.”

“He does!”

Levi rolled his eyes. “You really think Dad is the best person to tell me to keep it in my pants when it comes to the woman I love?”

She stared for a while as he husband walked closer. “You’re right…honey, it’s okay.” She squeaked when he tackled her. “Tone it down, Sebastian.”

He growled at his wife. “Can’t help myself when my wife is so sexy.”

Levi smirked. “See?”

Sebastian stopped kissing his wife’s neck. “Oh, hello, son and lovely daughter-in-law. What’s going on?”

“Mum thinks you should have a word with me about how I’m an animal with my wife.”

“A wife is meant to be worshipped.” He started kissing Kuchel’s neck. “Loved and adored for eternity. They’re goddesses who have blessed us with their presence.”

Kuchel giggled. “Bassy, calm down.”

He squeezed her. “Later. Now, kiddos, when am I becoming a grandad?”

Levi kissed your temple. “We’re working on it.”

“Lovely!”

You handed your phone to Levi. “You should chat with your parents.”

Levi frowned a little. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah, just going to get a drink.” You kissed him. “I’ll get you something.”

“Thanks.”

You trotted into the kitchen and got a drink for you and Levi. You walked back to hear Levi talking to his parents about babies and pregnancy. It warmed your heart to hear him getting tips from his parents. You sat next to him and handed over a drink to Levi. You kissed his cheek and cuddled up to him. You sipped your drink a little bit before closing your eyes for a moment.

Kuchel gasped. “Oh, she’s so cute even when she sleeps.”

Levi looked down at you with a gentle smile. “Yeah, she’s like a cute angel.”

“I can understand why you want to hold tightly onto her.”

“She’s so precious, sweet and innocent. I feel bad for dragging her into my world.”

Kuchel sighed. “You saved her. She walked into your world very bravely for her work.” She smiled as you hugged Levi’s arm and wiggled closer. “She’s an incredible woman. I bet she is thankful you were there for her. Could you imagine if you weren’t obsessed with her? She’d probably be stuck with Bruce.”

Levi gazed at you and considered what his mother had said. It was true, you would likely be trapped with Bruce, slowly being worn down by his insane ways. The thought of you being with Bruce without the help of Levi and the friends you’d made through him broke his heart. “I hate that thought.”

“Your love is perfect.”

Sebastian nodded. “Your mother is right. The two of you are written in the stars.”

Levi kissed the top of your head. “I think so too.”

“Son, I know I’m retired from your world, but if you need me to step in and help out, you just say the word.”

Levi smiled a little. “Thanks, Dad. I might lean on you.”

“Good. You should rest for now. You need as much sleep as possible.”

“Sure. Thanks for the tips, and I’ll see you both soon. Love you both.” He smiled as both shouted a lot of love before ending the call. He carefully moved you to lie on the sofa with a comfy cushion under your head. “Sleep well, my cute bunny wife.”

While you slept peacefully, Levi focused on contacting his team and organising them. He wanted to know where Bruce was at all times. Thankfully, he was still in the city, stomping about trying to get Levi’s attention so he could get to you. It was a blessing that he didn’t know exactly where you were, which meant you could relax and enjoy your holiday.

He saw you shift and whined a little. “Hey.” He lightly played with your hair. “Hey, hey, it’s okay.”

You opened your eyes and whimpered. “Levi.”

“You’re okay, you just had a bad dream. I’m here.”

You sat up and hugged Levi. “Mm.”

He rubbed your back. “I’ve got you.”

“Levi.”

He squeezed you tightly. “I’m sorry you had a bad dream. Was it about Bruce?”

You nodded before nuzzling Levi’s neck. “Yeah. I know I’m safe with you, but he’s just something else.”

“He is.”

You released a long sigh. “He’s like the boogeyman. I will feel bad when our kids ask us if there is one and there is.”

Levi hummed a laugh. “True, but we can tell them daddy killed them.”

“You’re right.” You giggled at the thought. “I think our kids will think you’re some superhero.”

“Possibly.” He leaned and kissed you. “I’ll do anything for you and the children we’ll have.”

“So will I.”

Chapter Text

“Do you remember the plan? Do you want me to go over it again?” Levi asked.

You sat watching your husband while he tapped away on his phone. “Mm. I’m okay.”

He paused his pacing to look down at you. “Bunny?”

“I’m okay.”

He knelt in front of you and held the back of your legs. “You sure?”

“Yeah.”

He squeezed your leg. “You sound a bit off, my darling.”

You cupped his face and stared deep into his eyes. “I know I’m asking a lot of you, but please promise me you won’t do anything too risky.”

“I’ll follow the plan, which means no risks.”

You welled up a bit. “I don’t like the plan too much. It’s scary.”

He wiped your tears away. “I’m sorry, it’s scary, but we have to do what we can to stop Bruce. It’ll work.”

You sobbed a little. “But Levi.”

He wrapped his arms around you. “I know, I know. I promise I won’t do anything risky.”

You clung to him. “Good. I love you.”

“I love you too. Now, promise me you’ll be good.”

“I promise.”

He kissed you. “Good girl.”

You sniffed a bit. “You wearing everything you need to?”

“I am.”

You rubbed your tears. “Good.”

He picked you up as he rose to his feet. “Come on. It’s time to get into our places.”

You kissed Levi over and over. “Levi.”

He grunted a bit. “Calm.” He let out a shaky breath. “I can’t get horny now.”

You pouted a little. “You could.”

He lay you in bed and tucked you in. “After this is all sorted.”

You gripped the sheets tightly. “Do you think we’ll win?”

“We will.” He kissed your cheek. “Sleep, okay?”

“I will.” You hummed a bit. “Tell me a fun story about your life before us.”

“I don’t like to think about it too much. My life started with you.”

You pinched his cheek. “Naughty. What would your mother say?”

He chuckled as you pulled on his cheek. “She’ll understand.” He took your hand and covered it in kisses. “You know, being like this…I’m imagining it as our kid I’m putting to bed.”

Your cheeks burned at the thought. “What a lovely thought. Could we…maybe…try for our first after we stop Bruce?”

Levi smiled softly, his heart filled with love as you pulled the duvet up to hide a little. “I would like that.” He leaned over and kissed your forehead. “Now, rest.”

“But story.”

“Okay.” He sighed and placed his hand on your hip. It made him happy that you wanted to keep him around for as long as possible. “How about the day I discovered the works of the most amazing woman in the world?”

You whined a little. “That’s a me story.”

“My favourite kind.” He started talking and enjoyed your sleepy giggles. It didn’t take long before you’d drifted off to sleep. “Good girl.” He leaned over and kissed your cheek. “It’ll be over soon.” He got off the bed, set an alarm for you and began tapping on his phone. “Not long now.”

You inhaled deeply as your alarm went off. You smiled softly at it being a recording of Levi’s voice. You sat up, turned it off and checked your phone. It was go time. You made sure you wore clothes you could move around in, possibly fight in and took a seat on the sofa. Your heart raced at knowing what was going to happen, the plan that you and Levi had agreed to.

You closed your eyes for a moment and leaned your head back. The hotel room was quiet, so quiet you could probably hear a mouse burp. It was so quiet that you heard your room being broken into. It was clear Bruce was trying his best to be quiet, but he wasn’t doing a great job. You knew he wasn’t going to hold back. Ava and Levi had destroyed him in the city; he had nothing left, so he had nothing to lose in coming for you.

With each careful step he took, you could hear the fabric of the rug moving, along with the slight creaks of the floorboards. You opened your eyes and listened, your ears straining. You quietly reached for a small vase and gripped it. You released a long sigh as Bruce leaned over you, your hair standing on end. You reached up, grabbed his tie and yanked him down as you smashed the vase into the side of his face, pieces raining down on you.

You jumped off the sofa and ran to the next weapon placed out for you. You knew you had to hit him with another vase, and then Levi would come in and they’d have a confrontation. However, not everything goes as planned. You thought you had more time, but Bruce was on you in the blink of an eye. You screamed in fear before slapping him hard to get him to back up; however, it didn’t stop him. He grabbed you and held you against him.

Bruce laughed at you, blood dripping from the cuts on the side of his face. “I love this playing rough. You can hit me as much as you like, okay?” He leaned closer, trying to kiss you.

You pressed your hands against his lips. “Stop!”

“Bruce!” He stopped and turned to see your husband. Levi walked closer with his hands up. “Let go of my wife, now.”

Bruce released you and slowly turned around. “Levi. Now is not the time to interrupt me.”

“She’s my wife. She’s the love of my life. You need to fuck off.”

Bruce laughed. “Or what?”

Levi walked closer. “I will kill you.”

You jumped when you heard a bang; it was deafening because of how close it was, but then a smell filled the air. You leaned around Bruce to see that Levi had been shot. “LEVI!”

Levi placed his hand on the wound, stumbled back and fell. “Fuck.”

Bruce turned to you, his gun still out. “Finally! I should have done that a long time ago.” He hummed a laugh. “Now, we can be together.”

You backed up away from him. “Fuck. You.”

He frowned a bit before lifting his gun. “I’d never kill you, but I do think I need to discipline you.”

You sprinted right as he fired his gun at the floor. “Oh, fuck!”

Bruce released a long sigh. “Stop running, little bird! I’m just trying to clip your wings!”

You shoved your way outside and grabbed the small single-legged glass table. There was a plan in place, and you needed to follow it. You turned and swung the table with all your might and hit him hard, sending him to the floor, but breaking your table in the process. You dropped the broken thing and hurried away from him. You went around the pool to get plenty of space.

Bruce stumbled to his feet and spat blood on the floor. “Ugh, this is starting to hurt.” He smirked at you. “No matter, I can have more plastic surgery to fix this.” He fixed his suit and pushed his messy hair back using blood to keep it in place. “Little bird, you are really fighting me today, huh?” He chuckled. “What are you doing over there?”

You shook as he stumbled to the pool. “There’s something wrong with you. You’ve been told time and time again no. How are you still interested?”

He paused and considered your words. “Mm, maybe because no one has dared to say no to me, but you keep saying it. I find it fascinating. Plus, you are as cute as a button.” He scratched his head with the end of his gun. “Now, let’s stop fighting, okay? I think it’s time we go home together.”

“I’m not going anywhere with you.” You patted yourself and tried to find your phone; you needed to carry out the plan as best as you could. You looked up right as Bruce made his way around the pool to your side. “Back off!”

“What are you going to do, little bird, you’re out of weapons.”

“I can hit you!”

He laughed as he slowly stomped closer. “Cute, very cute.” He launched at you like a viper, his hand around your neck, and your back hit the railing of the balcony. “I could just eat you up.”

You turned your head a little. “Stop. Stop. STOP!”

He paused. “Yes?”

“I’ll go with you.”

He beamed a smile. “Really? Excellent.” He released you, stepped and turned. “Are you kidding me?”

You moved out of the way to see Levi standing in the doorway right as he shot Bruce twice. Each bullet made Bruce stumble back until he went over the railing. You screamed when he grabbed your wrist and pulled you with him. You grabbed the edge as you tried hard not to go over with him. You sobbed and whimpered as you looked into Brue’s eyes.

Levi cried out your name, sprinted over and wrapped his strong arm around your waist. “I’ve got you.”

You whimpered. “Ow, ow, ow, it hurts. He won’t let go.”

Levi looked down at Bruce. “Tch, let her go!”

Bruce smirked with blood in his teeth. “We die together. We and you, together forever.”

Levi held you tightly. “Close your eyes.” He smiled when you did as he said and turned your head to him. “I’ll end this.” Levi pointed his gun at Bruce. There wasn’t anything that needed to be said, no one-liners, no goodbyes, no witty things. Levi shot Bruce in the arm that was holding you, causing Bruce to let go. Levi watched as Bruce fell down the high-rise and towards his demise.

“Levi?”

Levi looked down at you. “Yeah?”

“Is he gone?”

“Yeah.” He pulled you away from the railing. “You did really well.”

You hugged Levi’s side. “I followed the plan.”

“You did.”

You mewled a bit. “I didn’t like the plan.”

Levi stopped in the room with you. “My love bunny, Bruce had to think he’d killed me.”

You pouted hard. “I know, I know, but it was still horrible seeing you shot!”

Levi stepped back and ripped open his shirt. “I’m not hurt. I wore a bulletproof vest.”

You touched the vest and saw the bullet stuck in it. “I know.”

“Want me to take it off?”

“Please. I need to see.”

He yanked on the Velcro before pulling off the vest to show you his tattoo and scar-covered muscles. “See?”

You ran your hands gently over his body. “There’s a mark.”

“Just a little bruise.”

“There’s still a mark!”

He chuckled as you stamped your foot. “Forgive me.”

You turned your back on him. “Stupid husband!”

He slipped his arms around you and spoke against your ear. “I’m very stupid.”

You turned in his arms and pressed your face against his chest. “I love you.”

He rubbed your back. “I love you so much. It’s time to go home.”

“Yes.”

Levi put up the last bit of decoration on the tree and smiled at his work. He glanced over at you, wrapped up in a blanket. “Love bunny?”

You smiled at Levi. “I’m okay.”

He moved closer to you. “You sure? Do you need anything? Is it the baby?”

You rubbed your bump with a gentle smile. “They’re okay too.”

“Talk to me.”

“It’s the first anniversary of Bruce dying.”

Levi held your hand. “You don’t miss him, do you?”

You playfully pushed Levi with your foot. “Ass.”

He chuckled. “I’m teasing.”

You sighed. “I guess it’s just I keep thinking he’s gonna show up, but he’s dead. You confirmed it.”

Levi leaned his cheek on his hand. “I saw his body.”

“That’s right, you did.”

He pulled you to sit on his lap. “It’s okay now, we’re safe now. Let’s focus on Christmas coming, my birthday and the baby arriving in a few months.”

You cuddled up to Levi. “Yeah, we have a lot of exciting things that are happening.”

“Do you think we’re having a boy or a girl?”

“Mm, how about twins? One of each?”

Levi’s eyes lit up. “Oh, I’d love twins!”

You laughed at how cute he was. “Well, it’s first scan soon, so we can see. I think it’s only one little baby.”

He pouted. “Big baby.”

You cupped his face and wiggled a little. “Big healthy baby.”

“Yes.”

You leaned closer and kissed him. “I love you.”

He smiled in pure delight. “I love you too.” He kissed you and slowly lay you down on the sofa. “Tasty wife.”

Levi quickly got you panting, and the sofa began dragging and scraping across the floor from his rough thrusts. Your moans filled the room as the two of you showed pure love. Cushions and blankets were tossed around, along with clothing. The two of you lost yourselves in each other as your love overflowed in the room.

You lay panting under Levi’s muscular frame. “Fuck me.”

“I thought I just did.”

You cupped your husband’s face. “No more fucking, my legs can’t take it.” You looked down at the floor. “I think we moved the sofa a bit.”

Levi dragged himself from you, wrapped you up in a blanket. “Let’s get you something to eat and drink.”

“Thank you.” You squealed when Levi moved the large sofa with you on it so easily. “Whoa! You’re so strong.”

“I am.” He leaned over and kissed you. “I like that it impresses you.”

You grabbed his hand. “Levi, you can’t walk around naked.”

He yanked his boxers on. “You’re right. Maybe another time.”

You hummed a laugh. “When we’re in our bedroom, my darling.”

“Yes, my love bunny.”

You pulled on Levi’s shirt once he’d left, along with your panties. You got comfy on the sofa and made sure you were wrapped up in your blanket. You looked outside and saw the snow falling; it warmed your heart. “Pretty.”

“What’s pretty?” Levi placed a tray on the table.

You poked his abs with your toes. “Well, now it’s you.”

He knelt and massaged your foot. “Thank you.”

“I was admiring the snow.”

“It is lovely when it snows.” He released your foot and sat next to you before handing you a snack. “Eat up.”

You ate a bit and hummed. “Mm, so good.”

Levi put his arm around you. “Do you need anything else? A massage?”

You bucked when Levi massaged your inner thigh. “Ah, umm.”

“Still sensitive?”

“A little.”

He kissed your shoulder a bit and rubbed your baby bump. “Sorry, I became a bit of an animal.”

You hummed a laugh. “Yes, but I wanted it.”

“You are so cute when you moan for more.”

You covered Levi’s neck in kisses. “I always want more.” You pulled back. “Speaking of more. I am going to get more food.”

Levi smiled happily as you ate plenty. “How are you feeling?”

“Good.” You kissed his cheek repeatedly. “Very good. I’ve been fed in more ways than one.”

“That’s true.”

“You want to nap?”

You cuddled up to Levi. “If I can nap on you, yes.”

He held you close. “Nap away.” He watched you closely as you quietly napped against him. When he knew you were asleep, he looked out the window and watched the snow fall. He felt at peace knowing that Bruce was gone.

Levi walked with his phone to his ear, glancing up at the trees lining the street to see that they were a beautiful shade of orange. He exhaled, his breath curling in front of him. A soft cooing sound emanated from his chest. He looked down and smiled with love in his heart; strapped to his chest in her warm winter onesie and hat was his daughter, Daisy.

Levi ended his call and tickled her cheek. “Hello, little duckling.”

Daisy instantly laughed, “Aboo!”

He smiled at his little girl. “Yes, aboo. You ready to go see Mummy? It’s time to collect her from the spa.”

“Da, da, mmm.”

Levi held her little gloved hand. “You’re so right.” He kept talking with his daughter all the way to the spa. He slipped inside and approached the desk. “Levi Ackerman and Daisy Ackerman, I’m here for my wife and her Mummy.”

The receptionist gasped at seeing the most renowned, deadly and handsome mafia leader carrying an adorable baby on his chest. “Oh, yes, she is just getting changed. Please, take a seat. Do you need anything?”

Levi shook his head. “We’re good.” He walked over to a seat and rested a moment. He held Daisy’s legs and massaged them. “You okay there, Daisy?”

She wiggled her arms. “Ah!”

Levi chuckled as people looked over. “Full of energy.” He looked up when he heard your voice. He smiled as you chatted with the team and thanked them. “Bunny!”

You waved to the team before racing over to your husband, looking like a pure goddess to him. “Hi!” You hugged his side and covered his face with kisses before kissing your daughter’s adorable face. “I missed you both. Did you have a nice day?”

“We missed you a lot, but we had fun.” He looked down. “Right, little duckling?”

Daisy stared at Levi before snorting a laugh. “Bah, bah, bah!”

You tickled her cheek. “So energetic.”

Levi hummed. “Not sure why.”

“Maybe it’s because she got all day with her Daddy.”

Levi put his arm around you and purred. “Oh? Do you want a day with Daddy?”

You kissed his neck. “Always. Can we go home?”

“Of course. We’re walking for a bit, if that’s okay?”

You hugged his arm and walked through the city, chatting away with Levi. You glanced at your daughter to see her yawn. “She’s tired.”

Levi looked down at his daughter. “You’re right. She’s rather tired, huh? I think it’s near her naptime, though.” He unlocked his car and started unstrapping Daisy. “Could you?”

You pulled her out of the harness. “Hello, my little cute duckling.” You covered her puffy cheek with kisses. “I love you so, so much.”

Daisy gummed your cheek a bit before flopping against you. “Mm.”

“So tired.”

Levi got her seat reading and reached over. “Let’s get her to bed.”

You melted at Levi speaking softly to Daisy as he put her in her car seat. “Adorable.”

“She really is.”

You hugged Levi from behind once he safely stood up. “I meant the two of you. You’re adorable together.”

“I feel the same when you’re with Daisy.” He turned in your arms and held you. “Love you so much.”

“I love you too.” You patted his cheeks. “We should head home.”

He lifted you, making you giggle. “Yes. My Queen deserves loving, and my princess needs naps.” He put you in the car before getting in and driving home. Once he had laid Daisy in a little cot and turned on the monitor, he sought you out in the kitchen. “Love.”

You put your hand out to him. “No sudden movements, I’m making tea.”

He leaned against the counter. “I’ll be a good boy. So, how was it?”

You smiled softly. “Good.” You handed him a cup and picked up yours. “I enjoyed it. I’ve never been before, but it was super refreshing. I think I fell asleep a few times.”

“I’m glad you could relax.”

“I did feel bad, though.”

“Bad?”

You pouted a little. “Well, you work so hard, so you deserve a spa day too.”

He put his cup down, took yours and put it down before wrapping his hands around yours. “Thing is, my darling bunny.” He began kissing your fingers. “I only ever want these pretty hands touching my body. Only you can touch and massage me.”

You tilted your head and kissed him. “Flirt.”

“Always.” He pulled you closer by your hands. “Don’t ever feel bad for taking time for yourself. Besides, you married a rich mafia man, so I’m going to spoil my wife.” He leaned closer and kissed you over and over. “Accept it.”

“Okay, okay, I accept.” You giggled as he nibbled your neck. “You cute little muffin.”

“Cute enough that you’d take a bite?”

You cupped his face and bit his cheek. “Yummy.”

“Can you sit on my face tonight?”

Your cheeks heated up. “Levi!”

“What?”

“Our staff are around.”

He yanked you against him as some giggled and hurried away. “They know how much I love you.” He growled and attacked your neck, making you squeak. “So?”

You mumbled your answer. “Yes.”

He picked you up. “Thank you! You’re the best wife ever.”

You ruffled his hair. “You’re the best husband, now, put me down, I want to finish my tea.”

He huffed a bit and placed you on your feet. “Fine, but after you’ve had your tea, I want to cuddle you on the sofa and feel you up a bit.”

“That sounds like fun.”