Author's Note: For those of you who follow me on tumblr, you've probably already seen this, but I figured I might as well publish it here too. A huge thanks to Kat (Midori Aoi/k-lionheart) for giving me this prompt, and I hope you guys enjoy!

Prompt: College AU – Mikasa, acquaintances with Levi, is convinced he is gay – which is why when her friends ask if they're dating she always laughs and shakes her head. Of course, each time after this happens, Levi looks depressed. Taking this as a sign he's in love with someone, Mikasa sets out to help him get a date. Shenanigans ensue. Bonus points if you write a steamy confrontation at one point. MEGA bonus points if Mikasa continues to be clueless and Levi's frustration just mounts and mounts.

February 2016 Update: Multiple mistakes in my usage of French—here and the following chapter—were brought to my attention by user darkjeane, who graciously lent me much needed proofreading and corrections!

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the published stories or characters I write about in my own work, nor do I make any profit from my writing.

"I'm telling you, there's no other explanation."

"He could just be shy. Or maybe he doesn't have the guts to ask a girl out. It's not that uncommon, Mikasa." Historia shook her hair from her eyes, scribbling another equation onto her homework assignment.

Mikasa frowned, dissatisfied with her friend's answer. "It's not like he hasn't had any chances! And besides, he's not unattractive or stupid or anything."

HIstoria looked up and smirked at her. "You're sure you and him…?"

Mikasa let out a throaty laugh, snickering at what Historia was implying. "He's my friend, Historia. I'm pretty sure I'm not dumb enough to say stuff like this if we were."

"Then just give it a rest. So he hasn't dated anyone since you've known him. Which is, like, how long? Six, seven years? Maybe he's just not ready." Historia rolled her eyes. "Or you could just ask him."

Mikasa paled. "Are you insane?"

She shrugged. "Just saying."

"You don't know Levi like I do! He probably already thinks I know the reason why. He'd refuse to speak to me if I came out and asked him something as personal as that." Mikasa slammed her textbook shut, sighing.

"He's your friend, Mikasa. I'm sure he wouldn't get upset if you asked him. But I don't think assuming he's gay is the only answer."

"I just want him to be happy." Mikasa stood up, hefting her backpack over her shoulder. "I have to get back to the apartment. It's my turn to make dinner and Levi hates it when I'm late." She checked her watch, pursing her lips.

Historia smirked. "I'm pretty sure you guys are secretly married. You just don't know it."

"See you tomorrow, Historia." Mikasa ignored her last comment and headed for the exit of the lounge. She glanced one last time over her shoulder, scoffing when her eyes caught Historia with her lips puckered and eyes wide.

Mikasa took another bite of her sandwich, eyeing Levi, who was looking particularly irritated and making no effort to hide it. Last night's dinner had been exceptionally loud – all thanks to Hanji, who had insisted her grad student friends come over for a "quiet little game of tabletop and a swig of beer." Needless to say, the game hadn't been quiet or little and multiple swigs of beer had been tossed down.

"You had to let them come over last night, Mikasa?" Levi downed another swallow of his coffee and narrowed his eyes. "You know I'm working on my thesis."

"I think you need to loosen up a little." Mikasa raised an eyebrow. "And you've been working on your thesis nonstop for the past two years! It wouldn't hurt to live a little."

"It's going to be your bloody fault if I don't get my master's degree this June," Levi sneered back. He tightened his jacket and unwound the light scarf from his neck. His face softened. "Fine. I'm sure I can spare a day or two 'loosening up.'" He offered a small smile.

"Levi! Mikasa!" A cheerful voice called out. A group of people was making its way toward their table and Mikasa raised a hand in excitement.

"Eren! How did your midterm go?" She moved her bag over to make room for her friends, giving a toothy grin.

"Eh, not too bad. Physics isn't really my thing, but I'm pretty sure I didn't do too terribly." Eren and Jean dropped themselves into the chairs next to her.

"The prof was a little more lenient this time around," Connie and Sasha joined them, their hands clasped.

"Only 'cause you were bugging him about it before the test," Sasha teased, giving her boyfriend a mischievous grin. Connie kissed her cheek.

"Aw cut that stuff out, Springer," Eren nudged Armin, who was trying to stifle a snigger. "Save it for tonight."

"Like you're any better, Jaeger," Levi looked sour, no doubt cursing in his mind about this undergrad-filled plight.

Sasha snorted. "You absolutely sure you guys aren't going out?" she nodded to Mikasa, who immediately went a deep shade of pink.

"I am absolutely sure, Sasha! Why do you keep asking?" Mikasa bit her lip and avoided making eye contact with anyone else around the table. Out of the corner of her eye though, Levi pinched his mouth and looked away hurriedly, his face also coloring slightly. Aha! I knew it! He's into someone!

Jean stifled a laugh. "Oh come on, Mikasa! You guys already live with each other–"

"And Eren and Armin–"

"–so I honestly wouldn't be that surprised–"

"Watch it, Kirstein," Levi growled, cloudy eyes swiveling between Jean and Mikasa.

She made a funny noise and was gnawing her lip raw, but the weird look on Levi's face made her pause and Mikasa swore she saw a flash of frustration pass over his smooth features. "Er, I have to get to the chemistry lab for…something…"

"But we just got here–"

"Ah, yeah, I know, just something I have to take care of before the next practical, I'll see you guys later on today!" Mikasa swiped up her bag and took off in a hurry, not bothering to listen to the pleas calling out behind her. An idea had wormed its way into her head–something she couldn't let slip away–and if Levi was finally interested in someone, there was no time to waste.

"You have to help me out on this one, Eren!" Mikasa whispered furiously, trying to lower her voice even further so Levi wouldn't hear in the next room over.

"Sasha was right. You're insane." Eren stared at his sister, incredulous. "You seriously think Levi is…gay? What on earth could have made you believe that load of bullshit?"

"I'm not explaining myself again," Mikasa scowled. Is it really that hard to comprehend? "Just, hear me out, okay? We have to find out who he's interested in."

"Excuse me, we?"

"And then set him up with a date." Mikasa ignored him.

Eren gaped.

"Come on, you owe me for setting you up with Annie." Mikasa crossed her arms.

"You're right. I do owe you." Eren sighed. "But this is ridiculous. Why don't you just ask him? He's right th–"

Mikasa shoved a hand over his mouth as Levi walked past Mikasa's room, his footsteps pausing for a second in front of the door. When they resumed, she released him, leaving him sputtering.

"This is a complete load of crap." Eren sighed. "But fine. I'll help you with your little match-making scheme, just don't blame me if it backfires."

Mikasa took a deep breath and peered out of her doorway. It was late at night, but Levi was still sitting on the couch, dressed in a loose-fitting shirt and pants, and he was quietly muttering to himself as he looked over a textbook through his glasses. He looked comfortable and pleasantly calm this evening, and Mikasa smiled in relief. These days, it was rare to see him so relaxed.

"If you have something to say, then say it. I'm busy." Levi didn't look up and continued to sort through his book.

"Of course you are." Mikasa stepped out of her doorway, hands clasped in front of her. Delicately, delicately. She sat down next to him–careful not to disturb his neat piles of impeccable notes–and studied him. The shape of his eyes, the curve of his cheek, the sharp jawline–there had to be someone interested in him. She shoved her own glasses back up the bridge of her nose and smiled softly.

"Well?" Levi turned to face her, his voice rough but mild.

Ease into it. Steady. "You promised you would take some time off." She started, grabbing a stack of his papers and rifling through them. "You wrote all this today?" She inspected a page, admiring his rigid handwriting: no loops or flourishes adorned the letters, but each word was written with precision and finesse. It reflected Levi perfectly.

"What of it?" He snatched the papers from her hand and laid them back in their place in front of him.

Mikasa grinned to herself. "What are you doing this weekend?"

Levi narrowed his eyes, his dark irises reflecting a brilliant shade of stormy gray in his glasses. "I don't have–"

"Great!" Mikasa interrupted, too excited for him to finish. Perfect. "We're going to go out. Somewhere nice. Spoil ourselves before finals." She twisted on the couch and brought her knees to her chin.

His eyebrows shot into a deep V on his forehead and he immediately objected, "When I said I would 'loosen up,' I didn't mean waste my money on something as time-consuming as that. I can't afford to–"

"You promised." Mikasa pouted, her lips pinching.

Levi opened his mouth, and closed it again when he couldn't find an answer. He took off his glasses and rubbed his eyes. "Three hours, Mikasa. That's all you get." He said after a few moments. A corner of his mouth suddenly jerked up in a lopsided smile, and he turned back to his notes, clamping his teeth around one of the arms of his glasses as he loosened the top buttons of his shirt. "It's bloody hot in here," he muttered. "I suppose I'll need to be on my best behavior since you'll probably decide to bring a few of your bratty undergrad friends."

Mikasa couldn't help put grin back. Much easier than I thought. "Me, Sasha, Connie, and Eren. And Hanji and her friend Erwin Smith." She added quickly.

However, Levi was muttering to himself again as he continued to sort through his papers. "Mhm," he mumbled through his teeth, his attention elsewhere.

Though Mikasa was sure he didn't actually hear her, she chose to interpret his vague response as a confirmation and hid a grin behind her hand.

It was all coming together so nicely.

"When the bloody hell did you say anything about bloody formal wear?"

Mikasa had just told Levi that they had reservations at a rather elegant restaurant overlooking the nearby beach ("You decided to tell me about this an hour before?") courtesy of Jean's parents who owned the lounge ("I have to see Kirstein tonight too? He better not be my bloody server.") and that he would need to change out of his comfortable jeans and worn jacket ("I am this close to saying forget the whole damn thing, Mikasa.").

"We already have the reservation for seven people at the restaurant. I'm not about to call them up and ask them to change it last minute." She said calmly. It had been her fault he had been kept out of the loop when she and Eren were planning this outing, but that had been on purpose. "Please, Levi?"

He stared at her, his face like stone until he finally sighed in reluctance. He nodded sharply before turning away, "Mon Dieu…je ne peux pas croire ces absurdités…" I cannot believe this nonsense.

Mikasa heaved a sigh of relief and ignored his muttering; Levi was prone to switch languages when he was upset–sometimes swearing and arguing with her or Eren in multiple tongues in the same sentence–to which they would just raise an eyebrow and shrug. But French was his mother tongue and Mikasa would often hear him talking to himself while he was studying, the wispy words curling effortlessly from his lips. "Say something, Levi?" Mikasa called from her room. He was still grumbling.

"Ça ne te regarde pas, Mikasa!" He shouted from within his room. This does not concern you.

She rolled her eyes. Let him sulk. He'll be happier tonight.

Dressing in a flowing skirt and blouse, Mikasa pieced together her outfit, trying not to giggle loudly every time she thought of her elaborate plan. Eren had suggested inviting Erwin Smith, one of Hanji's roommates who happened to be "grossly handsome, in an uptight-Englishman-kind-of-way," as Hanji had put it. Mikasa knew Levi had met the man more than a few times (Enough to warrant the beginning of slight attraction), and had agreed, the match quickly becoming more romantic the longer it played in her head. We'll all be dressed nicely. It's brilliant.

"What the hell are you smirking about?" Levi stopped in front of her and tugged on the sleeves of his suit jacket, rolling his shoulders.

"Nothing. No tie?" Mikasa said hurriedly and pointed to his chest, noticing the undone buttons.

Levi scoffed. "It's just dinner. We're not going to the bloody opera." He shoved his hands into the pockets of his matching pants and blinked at her. "Well?"

Mikasa gave him a once-over. And then a second and a third, though she really didn't need to: Levi was a snappy dresser anyway and he usually never failed to turn heads when he strutted about on campus. "You really need me to tell you that you look fine?"

He snorted. "I'm not that desperate, Mikasa. I meant 'Well' as in 'Detach your arse from the couch and let's bloody leave.'"

"Yes, Your Most Fashionably Adroitness." Mikasa couldn't help but tease him as she walked out the door.

"Your one hundred and eighty minutes start now."

"Just behave yourself."

"I'm always well-behaved."

"Kindly fuck off before I decide you'd look better on a plaque, Hanji." Levi gripped the handle of his knife threateningly.

Mikasa covered her face with a hand and sighed, silently praying Hanji would heed Levi's words before he burst.

Sasha and Connie were sitting across from her, stifling sniggers and trying to act mature. Fat chance. Mikasa shot a glare toward the couple and they cleared their throats, suddenly interested in the tablecloth and the place settings. She chanced a look at Erwin, who had arrived exactly on time and dressed superbly, and noticed he too was hiding a small laugh creeping into his eyes. Ah. At least he finds it amusing. He's able to deal with Levi's crap and filthy mouth.

For all intents and purposes, the dinner was actually going much better than she had hoped: Sasha, Connie, and Eren had all been sneaking looks at Levi, their faces questioning and anticipatory. Mikasa was sure they were all trying to figure out if he really was gay and if he would show any interest in Erwin; she had been doing the same thing.

"I'm sorry, I need to take this phone call." Erwin bent his head in apology and rose to leave, removing his jacket.

Hanji waved him off, still attempting to poke some fun at Levi, whose knuckles had grown white around his knife. Mikasa nodded at Erwin and smiled, lightly smacking Levi's thigh under the table.

"What?" He hissed at her, letting the knife fall to his plate with a clatter.

"So what do you think of Erwin?" She said, a little loudly so everyone around the table could hear. Next to her, Eren sighed mournfully.

"I've met him before, Mikasa." Levi pushed her hand away from his leg. "He's the same as when I met him a few months ago."

Sasha shook her head and muttered something in Connie's ear.

"And…?" Mikasa pressed, refusing to let it go. He'd get that date, no matter what.

"And what? He's quiet and brilliant, and brilliantly quiet. He's said a whole ten words since we got here, and frankly, I'm beginning to think he doesn't really know how to speak English."

"Sounds like someone I know." Eren mumbled. "Ferme ton pied, Eren. Tu es une chaise, Eren…" He snorted. Shut your foot. You are a chair.

Levi stared at Eren and Mikasa wondered what Eren had said to make him gawk so. For Levi's jaw was close to calling his lap its new home and his eyes had gone wider than she had ever seen them.

"Er, I didn't know you spoke French, Eren," Connie managed out to fill the awkward silence.

"Levi says–" Eren began, but he was interrupted.

"He can't." Levi grunted, and a strange warbling sound spewed from his mouth. "Bloody hell, Jaeger! Make sure you actually know what the hell you're saying before you embarrass yourself in public." He snorted.

Eren flushed several shades of red. "I thought–"

"What'd he say, Levi?" Hanji asked excitedly, her brown hair bouncing up and down in its ponytail. "It must have been–"

"Anyway," Mikasa cut in, wanting to hear more about Erwin from Levi before he returned from his telephone call. "I know Erwin's quiet, but he's probably a lot more chatty in a smaller group. Right, Hanji?"

Hanji shrugged, her interest lost on Eren's language mishap. "He opens up more once you get to know him well. Doesn't hesitate to show us up in class though. I swear that brain of his is made of bits of Einstein's and Mozart's. Smart as hell, and even more cunning. Man knows how to get what he wants." She sighed. "Except in the be–"

"Er, but he's nice though, right?" Sasha blurted out, her voice trilling in a higher register than normal, her eyes darting between Levi and Hanji.

Levi suddenly gripped Hanji's arm for some reason and she blew a wet raspberry. "Oops, sorry about that."

Mikasa wrinkled her brow in confusion, but brushed it aside as one of the woman's odd antics. "He seems very friendly and polite," she agreed. She made a split decision, deciding to just go for it and drop all attempts to be covert. "Perfect boyfriend material, wouldn't you think?"

Silence around the table. Mikasa wondered if she had made a grave mistake.

"For…whom, Mikasa?" Eren ventured slowly.

"Er…anyone, I guess…?" she floundered, offset by Eren's pointed question.

"Not for someone like you," Levi ripped a bread roll in half and began buttering it, not missing a beat. He was seemingly oblivious.

"Then who would you say, Levi?" Mikasa asked, barely able to contain her triumph. Eren nudged her foot under the table and sent her a look that said Don't push it.

"I don't bloody know. You prefer dark characters with…sass." Levi avoided the question completely and continued buttering his roll, his face growing stonier.

"And how do you know what I like, Levi?" Mikasa asked, disbelief shadowing her features. What? How did we get here?

"Yes Levi, how do you know what she likes?" Hanji repeated, her face glowing as she took a sip of her drink.

"Maybe because I've known her for the past six years, imbécile." He retorted back.

"Name-calling already?" Erwin smiled as he returned to his chair. "Ce n'est pas aimable," his grin grew wider and he raised a sharp eyebrow at Levi. That is not nice.

"You speak French too?" Mikasa asked, amazed. This is beyond perfect.

"Only a little. Though I hear Levi is l'expert." Erwin cocked his head.

Levi scoffed. "Je devrais l'être." I ought to be.

"Oh?"

"Le Français est ma langue maternelle." Levi said, looking entirely bored with the conversation. French is my mother tongue.

Erwin nodded, sensing Levi was uninterested, and called for the server to come around and take the table's order.

"Behave." Mikasa whispered into Levi's ear. "This is for you."

"I don't see how it is, but thank you for your concern, even though I did not bloody ask for it." Levi dusted some crumbs from his jacket. A few strands of slicked back hair had fallen from their place, fluttering over his forehead, and Mikasa couldn't help but notice. She had to admit, he looked rather more attractive than usual tonight. It was distracting.

The arrival of their waiter forced her to tear her eyes away from her solemn roommate though. It was, in fact, Jean who was their server tonight, and his smile stretched when he saw his friends. After taking their order, he leaned down to say something to Connie, who shook his head. Giving a hopeful smile, he quirked an eyebrow at Levi, who scowled. "Ah well," Jean finally said at length, and squeezed Mikasa's shoulder. "Just wait." He whispered, stuffing the small pad of paper into his apron. "Patience."

Mikasa nodded, knowing Connie had informed Jean of her plan some days ago, but she didn't say anything in return. "I'm going to the ladies' room." She announced, determined to build up her courage. Perhaps Erwin and Levi would talk some more while she was gone.

"I'll come with you." Sasha offered, and stood to join her friend. "Don't start eating without me." She winked at Connie, who blew her a kiss.

Once the two women were out of earshot from their table, Mikasa immediately launched into a panicked frenzy. "It's not working, Sasha! They're just sitting there, totally uninterested and I was sure–"

"Okay, calm yourself, woman. Before you give yourself the dry heaves!" Sasha placed both hands on Mikasa's shoulders, rocking her back and forth. "Don't worry about it. I'm sure they're just warming up to each other." She didn't seem convinced though.

"You're right. Just…relax. Let it flow naturally." Mikasa sighed. "But I was positive they would be good for each other!"

Sasha slapped a hand to her forehead. "It's not your job to play matchmaker, Mikasa. Let Levi do his own thing."

Mikasa nodded. "Okay. I just want him to be happy with someone, Sasha." She leaned over the counter and turned on the water, feeling the cold slide down her hot fingers. "He's dejected and depressed. I see it every day."

Sasha stood behind her friend and stared. "Has it ever crossed your mind that maybe he's depressed because he's…disappointed?" She said, too soft for Mikasa to hear.

"She still has no clue." Hanji murmured to Levi. "She's a smart girl, but for all her cleverness, she still can't see through you."

"And I'd kind of like it to stay that way. Mind your own damn business, Hanji." Levi picked at his food.

Connie smirked. "She's convinced you'r–"

"I am aware of what she thinks, Springer. Don't push your luck. What little there is." Levi snarled back. The frustration was slowly beginning to unwind in his chest. He unclasped another button, feeling the temperature of the room rise despite the cool ocean air.

"Just tell her before this gets out of hand." Eren sighed. "I've had enough of double-timing you two."

Erwin chuckled. "The young man has a point. Best to say something now instead of regretting it later."

"I don't recall asking for your opinion either." Levi quipped.

"It would be wise." Erwin shrugged.

"What would be wise?" Sasha plopped back down in her chair and dug into her plate, not waiting for an answer.

"Nothing." Levi said, his nerves fraying.

"Well I'm sure Levi will take care of it, whatever it is," Mikasa offered an encouraging smile. "He usually does."

Connie snorted into his steak.

"You're this close to joining that meat on your plate, Springer." Levi hadn't even touched his food and was beginning to look considerably pissed off. "Where the hell is Kirstein? I need a goddamn drink."

Hanji jerked her head at Mikasa, "So…any man catch your fancy yet, Mikasa?"

She shook her head, "After Jean and I decided it wasn't working…I just haven't thought about it, I guess." Mikasa took another bite of her food, chewing thoughtfully. "Why?"

Behind her, Eren was gesturing wildly to Hanji, who ignored him and proceeded with another question. "Really? Not even like, Reiner or Armin or…?"

Mikasa snickered. "Reiner's not into girls, remember Hanji? And Armin's my roommate. He's practically my brother."

"Does it really matter if he's your roommate though?" Hanji continued. "You obviously care for him enough."

At the end of the table, Erwin pursed his lips, a knowing look settling on his face. "He's rather smart too, if a little on the shy side."

"Armin's great and I do love him," Mikasa pushed away her plate. "But I'm just not interested in him. I'm sure he would agree with me. Besides, I think he and Historia are into each other." She wiped her mouth and clasped the napkin in her lap.

"And you, Levi?" Hanji turned to him. "Anyone catch your eye?"

"What business is it of yours if there is?"

Mikasa's breath caught and she strained her ears. Here it comes.

"You haven't dated anyone in the time we've known you." Sasha offered. "Isn't there someone you're even slightly interested in?"

Levi blushed a little, his cheeks coloring softly. "You're all a bunch of prying prats. Fine. Yes."

Mikasa turned to Eren, a toothy smile plastered on her face. "Told you." She whispered, victorious.

"Anyone we know?" Connie pushed forward. He was jerking his head toward something, but Mikasa had no clue as to what.

"Mon Dieu! Give it a bloody rest already! Oui, I should hope you know, they're sitting at this bloody table." Levi clamped his mouth and would say no more.

He admitted it himself! Mikasa's heart did a flip-flop and she did a quick surveillance, going down the list. Connie and Sasha are together, and Eren's going out with Annie. It could be Hanji…but she's too wild for him…no, it has to be Erwin! "Finally!" she muttered under her breath.

"What?" Levi frowned at her, a questioning but surprised look on his face.

"Ah, nothing. I'm just happy for you, Levi!" Mikasa squeezed his arm gently, feeling the sleek fabric of his jacket. "Why don't you just ask whoever it is out tonight? It would be a lovely close to the evening." She suggested, close to bursting with glee, and quickly added, "It doesn't have to be in front of us or–"

"Yes, why don't you ask them out tonight?" Eren interrupted, each word sharp. He was gripping his fork and knife tightly and biting his lip.

Mikasa nodded at her brother, silently thanking him for backing her up on this one. Eren understands perfectly. Glancing around the table, she noticed Sasha and Connie looked a bit anxious, and Hanji was looking on with an amused smile. Erwin was blissfully unaware.

Levi glowered. His fists clenched a few times and a vein in his neck was pulsing violently.

He's just nervous. That's okay. Mikasa smiled to herself.

"Mikasa, come with me."

The smile dropped from her face and she looked up, confounded. Levi was standing above her, his face unreadable. Ah. I see. The initial shock dissipated. He wants advice. Can this get any more perfect? "If you insist. Though you don't have to do it now, just wait until after dinner." She glanced at Erwin, but got up from her chair to follow him to the balcony, winking at the rest of the table.

"I'd rather not wait. I've waited too long." Levi said over his shoulder.

"It's okay, you're nervous. I understand. Asking someone out can be difficult."

They both leaned against the railing of the balcony, listening to the cries of the sea gulls above.

"Just ask. That's all there is to it." Mikasa urged lightly. "Or–what are you doing?"

Levi had taken her hand in his, his fingers firm but gentle.

She stared at him. Oh. He's just practicing. Can't hurt, I guess. She smiled back, brushing her hair from her eyes. "Excellent id–ah" her stomach clenched and her eyes flew open.

Levi had pressed his mouth against hers in a tender kiss, soft and warm over hers. All previous thoughts flew from her brain and without knowing what she was doing, she responded, her own mouth completing the void between his lips. She sighed, breathing in his warmth and her hands trailed up his chest.

"Wait!" she suddenly cried out, reeling backward and nearly tripping over her feet. "But, I don't–what? This is just–"

"Mikasa. Shut up." Levi tugged her back toward him, and the ocean breeze lifted his jacket behind him as she was pulled forward.

She was dumbfounded. "You can't, you're–I thought you were–"

Levi jerked her toward him, the jolt shoving her into his chest. "I'm not gay, Mikasa." He leaned forward again, whispering in her ear, "Do your homework, Ackerman."

His breath tickled her neck and Mikasa melted. "But you–you were showing no interest–you–" she sighed in defeat and rested her head on his shoulder, starting to giggle. It grew into a laugh and she couldn't stop herself. "Ah. I see." She wrapped her arms around his back.

"You think it's going okay?" Eren leaned over the table to reach for the dessert menu.

"I'm sure Levi's taking care of it. Mikasa can be a little dense sometimes." Hanji huffed. "I just hope he doesn't screw it up."

Sasha giggled. "She really had no idea."

"How did she even end up with Jean anyway?" Connie chortled, his hand over Sasha's on the table.

"A lot of pleading and confused shouting," Eren answered, frowning at the mention of Jean. "She was clueless even back then."

"Sounds very…entertaining." Erwin added, taking Hanji's hand. "A bit like us, eh?"

Hanji guffawed. "Only in the bedroom."

The rest of the table grimaced.

"But knowing Levi, he'll set her straight. He's not the type to beat around the bush." She kept on tittering. "Just wait and see. They'll come back with their lips bruised and hair mussed."

Hanji was, in fact, only half right. Their hair was indeed mussed, but only because the breeze off the coast had picked up considerably, whipping Mikasa's inky locks around her face and into her eyes and pulling more strands of Levi's hair out of its immaculate coiffure.

Mikasa flicked a piece away from his forehead, bringing her hand down to cup his cheek. "Well this is embarrassing."

"Indeed. Though you seem to be taking it quite well." Levi said lowly and removed her hand, massaging her palm.

"Why didn't you tell me sooner? We could have avoided this whole ordeal." Mikasa nudged him in the shoulder.

"You needed to have your fun." He responded coolly. "I apologize for forcing myself on you earlier. But it needed to be done."

Mikasa sighed. "It was quite the wake-up call. Just…let me know before you decide to do that again. Though it was…er, rather…enjoyable."

A gleam appeared in Levi's eye and he smirked. "So…"

"You're interested in me? I'm aware. Now." Mikasa laughed again. "And I must admit," she paused, searching his face for any tricks. "I've grown…fond of you as well."

Levi said nothing in reply and waited for her to continue.

"Er, so I guess, what I'm saying is, um, I mean–" Mikasa couldn't finish. It was too nerve-wracking.

Levi rolled his eyes. "Just be quiet and bloody kiss me again, Mikasa." He breathed and brought her face to meet his again. "You never know when to stop."

Fireworks sparked behind her eyes as she felt his lips on hers again and she leaned in, eager to know him inside and out. "I suppose this means–"

"Infuriating woman." Levi hissed and gathered her closer.

Aw shit. Mikasa sighed in satisfaction. To hell with everything else.

Their mouths battled, fighting for dominance over the other in their sensual kiss, and Mikasa turned to mush as his hands travelled to her waist and back. She gripped the back of his neck in return, forcing his lips to linger on the corner of her mouth that much longer; the carnal heat and moisture from his breath igniting a sultry feeling in the pit of her stomach that refused to withdraw.

And then he abruptly stopped, a greedy look overtaking his face. "You aren't opposed to this?" He said, more to himself.

"Why should I be?" Mikasa nipped the hot skin on his neck again. "I've spent so much time worrying about you, I didn't even stop to think about…this. And what I wanted."

Instead of answering, Levi looked away, the oranges and reds of the sunset casting a dim light across his face. He looked serene, peaceful.

His lips looked fuller than usual, Mikasa noticed blissfully, and she traced his jawline with a finger, feeling the sharp nook below his chin. She had obviously noticed his angular features before, but had never fully appreciated them until now–when her face was inches away from his and they were both breathless from their short-lived ardor.

"And is this what you want?" Levi asked quietly. "Tu veux être avec…moi...?" You want to be with…me?

Mikasa squeezed his hand, absolutely no clue as to what he had just said, but she kissed his cheek. "Oui."

Levi bent toward her again, his hands on her hips, and he was just about to plant another one on her when–

"Hey! You guys are taking forever!" Hanji's voice called out to them and they jumped away from each other. "Let's get going!"

Levi nodded to Mikasa and she giggled, hiding it behind a hand as they rejoined the rest of the group.

"About time." Sasha smirked at the couple. "We've been waiting for ages."

"Sorry," Mikasa apologized, licking her lips and hoping they didn't look too swollen.

"How'd it go?" Eren pried, his voice sounding rushed.

"Er, well, Levi just needed to ask–"

"Oh quit faking it Mikasa, and just come out with it." Hanji rolled her eyes.

"Sorry, er, wha–wait." Mikasa stared at her friends and zeroed in on Hanji's right hand, her heart pounding again. Erwin was holding Hanji's hand for dear life, and Mikasa mentally cursed herself for being so dense. She knew! And she let me…!

"I asked and she said yes. Will that be all?" Levi said shortly, coming to her rescue. He adjusted his jacket and ran a hand through his hair, the other resting on the small of her back.

"Finally. Like Sasha said, we've been waiting for ages." Connie pointed his chin at Mikasa, who was still struck dumb by the revelation.

They all knew! I'm such a half-wit!

"Eren?" She asked weakly, her eyes locking with her brother's.

He shrugged. "It's true. We tried to tell you, 'kasa." He burst out in laughter and Connie and Hanji joined him, their faces quickly turning red. "You really had no clue, did you?"

Mikasa felt herself go hot and she cringed. "Er, can we just get back to the apartment now? I'm er–"

"Eager to begin the night already? An impatient one, I see." Erwin chuckled and he inclined his head toward Levi, who narrowed his eyes.

"No! I just–"

"It's okay, Mikasa, we know it's been a while since Jean–"

"–and you don't even have to wait for him to come over since you guys live with each other–"

"–you and Armin can stay at our place tonight, Eren–"

"–definitely don't want to be there when–"

"Alright, enough." Levi interjected, his low voice severe. "If you all don't mind, I'd like to get back to my bloody thesis now."

"Oh, is that what they're calling it?" Hanji winked at Eren and grabbed his arm. "Come with us Eren, we'll take you back. I'm sure the moody twins over there want to have some quality alone time tonight." She dragged him over to her car and flipped her phone open. "I'll call Armin and tell him."

"Hanji, it really isn't necessary." Mikasa pleaded, looking around desperately.

"I really think it is," Sasha snorted. "But don't worry, Eren, I'm sure you'll hear all about it tomorrow. Come on, Connie."

"You guys…!" Mikasa clenched her teeth and balled her fists. She was beginning to get aggravated now, the humiliation worn off.

"Leave them, Mikasa. Let's go back to the apartment to sort things out. I'm sure you still have questions." Levi grasped her sleeve and nearly shoved her into the passenger seat of his car in his haste to leave these crazy kids.

Hanji blew them a kiss as they left and Mikasa felt her stomach drop to her knees in defeat. How had she not seen it? Did even Jean know too?

Levi eyed her wordlessly as he backed out and took her hand in reassurance. "I'm not going to force myself on you." He said, answering her unspoken question. "I can bloody see it on your face."

"It's not that, Levi. I mean, it would be nice, but it's a little too early." The words tumbled out before she knew what she was saying, and she clapped a hand over mouth.

Levi smirked.

"That's not what I meant! I was just saying because we just, you know, that it was still, like, we still need to get to know each other personally, but not in that way, like mentally, not physically, well of course physically eventually, since…oh fuck." Mikasa slumped in her seat. "Okay fine!" She blurted. "I wanted–want–to sleep with you! But it's too early!"

"You're telling me this now? After we made out?" Levi's smirk grew wider.

"Because they were talking about it, and I kind of wanted to on the balcony, but I thought you were gay, so I just–oh I don't know! I'm a mess." She muttered, feeling embarrassed again.

"You're welcome to sleep with me, but I'm not looking for a goddamn fuck tonight, Mikasa." He paused, the hand on the steering wheel tightening. "You're a little too worked up and to be honest, I'd rather have you calm and supple beneath me, not this…hot mess." He gestured up and down at her.

Mikasa blushed at his rough language and bit her lip. She didn't doubt her decision; instead she was trying to quell the scorching beneath her skin, her mind offering her heated images of…improper things.

"But I can't promise anything on the second date." Levi chuckled and squeezed her hand. "Your decision though."

Mikasa nearly spouted her exuberant agreement and was about to say something before her conscience yanked her back. This is a whole different game, Mikasa. Tease or be teased. Catch or be caught. You have to play it smooth. Levi's a deadly opponent. "Mm." Was all she could manage out. "Perhaps…though I think I'm going to have to assess you first."

"Excuse-moi?" Levi slammed on the brakes and turned to face her. "Assess me?"

Mikasa said nothing and only smiled out the window. Your move, Levi.

"And how, exactly, do you think you're going to carry out this assessment of yours? Seeing as you've only been with Kirstein…" He recovered remarkably well and snorted, incredulous.

"And Sasha." Mikasa added jovially. "Though that was years ago and just a fling, really."

Levi choked. "What?"

"Do your homework, Levi." Mikasa patted him on the arm, her grin widening. "I'm bisexual."

Author's Note: As always, thanks for reading this first part! Questions, comments, reviews are welcome! :)