Chapter Text
Dear Mr. Ackerman,
It has come to the attention of the Omega for All Federation (OFAF) that you have not yet registered your omega. As per statue 1.3, ALL alphas MUST have an omega registered to them by the time said Alpha turns 18 to keep alphas from going feral. The OFAF has proven that having an omega keeps the alpha sated and in control. You have 4 months to register an omega. If no omega is registered to LEVI ACKERMAN by JUNE then LEVI ACKERMAN may face fines of up to $25,000 dollars and up to three years in prison.
If you have any questions or need help finding an omega please contact The OFAF.
Email: noalphaleft.net
Phone: 817-321-6009.
Levi sighed as he read the letter. Perfect. He had avoided getting an omega for 10 years. How did he get caught? Someone knocked on his office door. “Come in.” He snapped.
Erwin strutted into his office, “Levi, do you have the quarter reports?”
Levi groaned. “Fuck. I totally forgot. Give me an hour.”
Erwin cocked his head, “Are you alright? It’s not like you to forget reports.”
Levi sighed and handed Erwin the letter. ”Someone fucking told the OFAF that I don’t have an omega.”
Erwin's eyes scanned the letter quickly then sighed, “Maybe it’s time Levi. You’re 29. I’m surprised you’ve been in control of yourself for this long. We’ve all seen what can happen when alphas don’t have an omega to help them.”
Levi shrugged. Erwin obnoxiously had a point. Every day it was getting harder and harder to control himself and part of him knew having an omega with him would help control those desires. But he hated omegas they were needy. “You know how I feel about omegas. I don’t need one. I’m perfectly fine on my own.”
Erwin raised an eyebrow, “Oh? I seriously doubt that. Omegas aren’t as bad as you think. Look at me. I’ve had Armin for almost 10 years now. He’s made me happier than I ever imagined.”
Levi crossed his arms. Erwin has been bragging about Armin since the second he got him. “Yeah yeah. You love your omega. I doubt I’d be that lucky. You know how I am. Do you really think I’ll be able to train an omega to do everything exactly how I like it?”
Erwin stroked his chin, “Hmmm. I see your point. You could adopt a young one. That way you’d be able to train them how you see fit.”
Now that was an idea. Being able to train a child to do exactly what he wanted. “I might just have to take you up on that.”
Erwin smiled and patted his shoulder, “There you go! It would be unfortunate if the VP of our company was put in jail.”
Levi scoffed. “Yeah. Who would save your ass if I’m gone?”
Erwin laughed, “Why don’t you take tomorrow off and go hunting? Do you want the name of the orphanage where I got Armin from? They are very reputable.”
Levi nodded, “Sure. I’ll take a long weekend. Text me the info for the orphanage.”
“Of course my friend. Don’t get distracted. I want that quarter report within the hour.”
Levi flipped Erwin off in response.
That night Levi did extensive research on omegas. He didn’t know much about them, only that they were clingy and had heats. He knew he wanted someone young. Someone he could train to be the perfect mate. It would take time and patience but Levi was sure it would be worth it. He just hoped he wouldn’t go crazy. Now that Erwin had mentioned it Levi could start to feel the feral part of him creeping up. How long has it been since he smelt an omega he could tolerate? Smelt that sweet, sweet phenomenon that could calm him. 20 years? He clenched his hands and forced that part of him down. He would remain in control. He was not like those other alphas who went batshit crazy, beating up anyone that looked at them wrong, marking their territory, and even forcing themselves on innocent omegas. Levi prayed that the orphanage had someone for him.
The next day Levi drove to Shiganshina orphanage. He told himself his nerves were from only having 4 months to find the perfect omega. Walking into the orphanage he gagged at the revolting stench of omegas. He sighed. Why was he so revolted by omegas? No one had ever compared to his mother's scent.
A beta woman wearing a nurse's outfit walked up to him smiling, “Hello! How can I help you?”
Levi stretched out his hand, “Hello. I’m looking for an omega. A young one.”
The beta smiled, “Wonderful! Do you have specifics? Gender? Age? Hair color?”
Levi thought for a minute, “No. Not really. I’m just looking for one that I will be able to train to my liking.”
“Perfect. Follow me. We have lots of omegas here. Hopefully one will be to your liking.”
The woman led Levi through the big doors. Inside was like a madhouse. Omegas of various ages were running around laughing and screaming. There were betas as well trying to corral the younger ones. A group of omegas noticed him and came running up to him screaming. “Hi!” “Hello!” “Who are you?” “Why do you smell?” “Why are you short?”
Levi stepped back, feeling overwhelmed. The beta shooed them away, “Stand back little ones. This is an alpha. He’s here to meet you.”
A chorus of oohs and ahhs went around the group. Levi didn’t know what to do. He’d never been around this many omegas before. The beta patted him on the back, “Feel free to walk around. I’ll be right over there if you need me.”
Levi nodded and slowly made his way around the room. He said hi to a few omegas, and almost kicked one across the room when it bit his ankle. With each passing minute, he was growing more and more desperate. People told him all the time “there is an omega out there for everyone.” He was on a time limit Damnit!
Then he heard it. A cry. It stood out louder than the rest. He turned to and felt his breath catch in his throat. The cry came from probably the most beautiful baby Levi had ever seen. They had a full head of curly brown hair and big green eyes that shined like emeralds, and even though they were crying they still looked adorable. Levi felt drawn to them.
He quickly walked over to the beta holding the baby and tapped their shoulder, “Excuse me? May I hold them?” Levi needed to hold the baby. Needed to soothe them.
The beta chuckled, “Uh sure. I apologize he’s a little fussy. He hasn’t eaten yet.”
Levi held out his arms. The baby perfectly fit into his arms. As soon as Levi held him the baby stopped crying and looked at him. His green eyes shone with tears. He lightly bounced the baby and said in the nicest tone he could muster, “Hi little one. Aren’t you beautiful?”
Then Levi got a whiff of his scent. Levi closed his eyes. Holy shit. The baby’s scent couldn’t have been that strong due to their age but it wafted up in the air and Levi practically salivated at it. It smelt like rainwater and jasmine. Levi almost started tearing up. Jasmine reminded him of his mother. The baby wiggled in his arms giggling.
Levi looked back down at him, “And what’s your name beautiful?” The baby giggled up at him reaching his chubby little arms up at him.
The beta whistled quietly next to him, “Wow. He’s been here for 6 months and he hasn’t smiled once.”
Levi puffed out his chest. Pride swelled throughout him. “What’s his name and age?”
“His name is Eren. And he is a year old.”
Eren. Levi smiled to himself. Eren was absolutely perfect. Levi turned to the beta, “I would like to adopt him.”
The beta raised her eyebrows, “That fast?”
Levi nodded, “Yes. When can I take him home?”
The beta laughed, “Slow your roll cowboy. There is a process you have to go through. We don’t just give out omegas to random alphas.”
Levi grumbled. “How long does that take?”
The beta reached for the baby, “Give him to me. He needs to eat. I’ll go tell the boss that you’re interested in adoption.”
Levi looked down at Eren who had snuggled deeply into his chest with a heavy sigh he reluctantly passed Eren back to the beta. As soon as Eren was out of his arms he screamed and cried. It absolutely broke Levi’s heart and took everything in him not to snatch Eren back. The beta patted Eren’s back and walked away. Eren cried the whole way out. Levi tapped his foot feeling desperate. Even though he had only held Eren for a few moments he already missed the weight of Eren in his arms.
Someone tapped him on the shoulder, “Excuse me. Are you the one interested in Eren?”
This time it was a male beta. Levi nodded, “Yes. Yes, I am. My name is Levi.”
“Nice to meet you, Levi. I am Jeremy. Please follow me.”
Levi followed Jeremy down the hall and into an office. Jeremy sat down behind the desk and offered Levi the seat in front of it. Levi sat down. Jeremy smiled at him and pulled out a folder. “So you are interested in adopting an omega?”
“Yes.”
Jeremy flipped open the folder, “Eren Jaeger. A one-year-old omega. Brought to use 6 months ago after his parents died in a fire.”
“No shit. That’s unfortunate. I’m very interested in adopting Eren. I want to take him home.”
Jeremy hummed, “I’m glad you want to adopt Eren. But there are protocols we have to follow. Omegas are a very special part of this society and are protected. If you want to adopt we will need all your records, blood tests, letters from employers, friends, and family, we will do a full background check and run your fingerprints.”
Levi leaned back in the chair. Holy shit. “Damn are you serious? Blood tests? Full background checks?”
Jeremy nodded, “Yes. We take adoptions very seriously. We can’t just give omegas out to anyone.”
Levi sighed, “Fine. Anything you need you’ll get. How long will it be before I can take Eren home?”
“Well if you pass all the background checks, and we receive good letters of recommendations from your employer, and you pass the home visit… I’d say about 2 months.”
Two months?! Holy shit. Levi sat up straight. “Ok. Tell me everything I need to know.”
Three months. Three fucking months. That’s how long it took to officially adopt Eren. It was a fucking nightmare to complete the process. Since he didn’t have any living family he had to rely on his friends to help him. The first few weeks Levi went to the orphanage every day to see Eren. He loved playing with Eren. He wanted to make sure Eren knew they belonged together. He brought Eren toys, treats anything to make the boy smile. But after a few weeks, the orphanage told him to stop coming by. They didn’t want Eren getting attached to him in case the adoption didn’t go through. It pissed Levi off to no end. But it just pushed him to do better to prove to the stupid orphanage that he would be a good fit.
At his house, Levi completely baby-proofed the house he bought thousands of dollars worth of toys, games anything and everything Eren could ever need. He even turned one of his spare bedrooms into a full-fledged nursery. He had the walls painted a beautiful light blue color and made sure to buy the best crib on the market. Levi had spent most of his days reading everything about babies and omegas.
The day had finally come. The day he would be taking Eren home. Levi couldn’t be happier. Eren would be his. Levi made sure to double and triple check the baby bag for Eren: diapers, a change of clothes, bottles, wipes. Yes. Everything was there. Levi was starting to get nervous. After today he would be responsible for another living breathing human. Eren would be his responsibility for the rest of his life. Levi chuckled to himself. 10 years ago he would have rather died than adopt an omega. Yet he was. Driving to adopt the most perfect, beautiful omega he’d ever seen. The best part? Eren was his to mold. Mold into the perfect omega.
Jeremy was holding a squirming, crying Eren In front of the orphanage steps. Levi ran up to them and practically ripped Eren from Jeremy’s arms. Eren immediately quieted down and looked up at him with those big beautiful eyes. It was almost like he was asking where Levi had been. Levi bounced him, “It’s ok baby. You’re coming home with me.”
Eren smiled and babbled at him. Levi beamed and kissed Eren’s little nose. Jeremy smiled and handed Levi a manila folder, “Here is all of Eren’s information. Next week we will call you and set up a home visit just to make sure everything is ok.”
Levi nodded. But he wasn’t really listening to what Jeremy was saying; he was too busy watching Eren. “If everything is in order, I'd like to take Eren home.”
Jeremy nodded, “Of course. Good luck and congratulations.”
Levi gave a small smile and turned around walking back to his car. Eren fussed a little bit when Levi put him down in his car seat, “Ah, Ah baby. Behave. You have to sit in your seat.”
Eren still cried. Levi hummed and pulled out a pacifier and shoved it into Eren’s mouth. Eren’s nose and eyebrows scrunched together and he gave a few sucks before quieting down.
Levi smiled and kissed Eren’s forehead. “Eh? You like the pacifier? That’s good to know.”
After double-checking that the straps in the car seat were correct, Levi jumped into his car and drove off. He watched Eren carefully. He was still sucking on the pacifier but he was looking around. “Bet it’s been a long time since you’ve been out of that orphanage huh baby?”
Eren looked at him smiling. “Well, you will never go back there. Hopefully, you’ll like my house. Technically it is our house now. I set up a big playroom for you where we can play and have fun. If you behave you’ll be the most spoiled little boy ever. Can you do that Eren? Will you be my good boy?”
Eren squirmed and giggled in his seat at the mention of his name. Levi chuckled. “Yeah. I can tell. You’ll be the best little boy.”
Levi parked in the garage and got out of the car he kept Eren in the car seat and started to the elevator. “This is an elevator Eren. It’s a big box that moves up and down. It will take me to my- our apartment.”
Eren was still looking around his eyes as big as plates. “It can be a little scary going to a new place. Don’t worry. I won’t leave you alone.”
After taking Eren out of his car seat Levi gave him a short tour of the apartment then settled down in the front room and put Eren on his play mat. Eren rolled around giggling. Levi couldn’t help but join in. Eren’s laugh was infectious. He picked up a stuffed bunny and shook it In Eren’s face, “Here baby. Play with this.”
Eren spat out his pacifier, grabbed the bunny, and started sucking on its ear. Levi hummed. Eren must be teething. He made a mental note to put the teething rings in the freezer for him. After a few hours of playing Eren started to get fussy, whining and crying. Levi immediately picked Eren up and rocked him but to no avail. He froze, not sure what to do but then it hit him. Duh. Eren was probably hungry.
He lightly bounced Eren as he walked them into the kitchen, “Hm? Is my baby boy hungry? It is lunchtime.” He put Eren in his high chair, “Ok. Sit here.” Eren whined harder and pounded on the chair. “Ah, baby. Lesson number one: patience. I don’t deal with inpatient little brats.”
Nevertheless, Levi quickly made the bottle and gave it to Eren. After Eren was happily drinking his bottle Levi decided to make himself a small lunch. Levi sat down next to Eren and took a bite of his sandwich “Lesson number two love. We will stick to a schedule. It’s important to have a routine.” Eren was just staring at him and gurgled happily. “Mmm, I’ll pretend you can understand me.”
When they finished lunch Levi cleaned them both up and took Eren into his office. “Ok. This is my office. I am the Vice President of a big company. So I need a big office to work in. I’m hoping since you just ate you’ll take a little nap so I can work.”
Levi gently rocked Eren to sleep and put him in the bassinet he moved into the office. Eren was sound asleep as soon as his head hit the mattress. Levi smiled and tried to do some work but it was hard. He kept watching Eren sleep. Levi decided to plan out a schedule for him and Eren. Wake up, breakfast, playtime, lunch, nap time, dinner, more playtime, bath time/ getting ready for bed then bed. Yes, that should work out. He knew that babies needed to have a schedule, Levi had no idea what kind of life Eren lived in the orphanage but he didn’t want Eren getting behind. It seemed like Eren was trying to talk but he couldn’t. He wondered how long it would be before Eren started talking. Levi bet he would have the sweetest little voice. He made a note to check to see if Eren could stand. He knew Eren could crawl but he needed to gauge how long it’d be until Eren walked so he could baby-proof the house for a walking baby.
Erwin had texted him asking if everything was going ok. If he was happy. Levi scoffed. But sent the pictures he took of Eren, playing, eating, and sleeping to all his friends with the caption “Everything is good. Leave us alone.”
Hange responded with lots of exclamation points and pleaded to come over. Levi knew Erwin wouldn’t let Hange come over these next few days were crucial. He and Eren needed to bond without interruption. Eren slept for about an hour and when he woke up he was full of energy. Eren was able to pull himself up and bounced up and down in the crib.
Levi chuckled, “Alright baby. Come here.”
Eren squealed joyfully when Levi picked him up. It was still light out so Levi made the decision to walk to the park down the street from him. Let Eren get some fresh air. Eren was making happy little squeals and gurgles in his stroller. “Like the fresh air my love?”
Eren screamed in response. “Ok. I’ll take that as a yes. I’ll try to fit in a daily walk for us. How does that sound? Can you say “yes”? Say “yes” Eren.”
“Gah!” Was Eren’s reply.
At least Eren was trying and knew when someone was talking to him. That was a good sign. “We will work on talking. I want you to be smart.”
After their walk, Eren was pretty fussy. He was probably hungry. Levi kicked himself. He forgot that Eren needed more than just a bottle so he made pasta for dinner and cut some up for Eren. “I apologize baby. You need real food, not just milk. This is pasta with red sauce and vegetables.”
Eren had a blast playing with his food slapping the high chair and sending red sauce flying. Normally Levi would have been pissed at the mess. But Eren was too cute to get mad at. “Baby you’re supposed to eat the food. Watch.”
Levi made a show of eating his own plate. Eren watched him intently, then stuffed a handful of pasta in his mouth. Levi smiled and ruffled Eren’s hair, “Good boy. Now you’ll learn that I like things clean. So let’s eat food and not play with it ok?”
“Oo.”
Levi raised his eyebrow. That almost sounded like a word. “Try again, Eren. Oh-Kay.”
Eren slapped his plate again and reached his messy hands towards time, “Oooo.”
Levi beamed. They were getting closer. “Let’s try my name. Can you say, Levi? Lee-Vie.”
Eren cocked his head and smushed more pasta in his mouth. Levi sighed. He’d try again later.
He was impressed that Eren ate the carrots and broccoli mixed in with the pasta. “Good job eating your vegetables, Eren.”
Eren smiled, “Ya!”
Levi laughed. Eren was in desperate need of a bath after dinner. He had pasta sauce all over his face, hands, and onesie. “Look at you! My messy little boy. Maybe tomorrow we will try food that isn’t as messy.”
Eren loved bath time; he had fun splashing around in the water and playing with the toys. “I’m glad you like being clean, Eren. I love clean little boys.”
“Gah!”
After Eren was fresh and clean, Levi got him ready for bed putting in a fresh diaper and a snuggie onesie. “Look at you! All clean!”
Levi kissed all over Eren’s face as he screamed joyfully. “Let’s go pick out a bedtime story yea?”
Levi had stocked Eren’s nursery with hundreds of children's books. He held Eren in front of the shelf. “Pick what book jumps out at you.” Eren ended up picking a book that was ocean-themed.
Levi took Eren into his room and sat down in his bed with Eren in his lap. Eren was staring intently at the pictures and tried to grab the various fish and ocean creatures on the pages. Levi kissed the top of Eren’s head, “You like the fish?“
“Ya!”
Levi chuckled. “Ok. I’ll get you more books about the ocean.”
He should also look into interactive books so Eren could touch and get some sensory learning. After they finished the book he made Eren a bottle and sat in the rocking chair in the nursery. Eren looked like he was fighting sleep. His eyes kept fluttering. Levi kissed Eren’s forehead. “My love. Sleep. When you wake up tomorrow we will spend the whole day together again. You need to sleep so that way we can have lots of fun ok?”
Finally, Eren closed his eyes. Levi smiled and carefully laid Eren down tucking him in making sure the stuffed bunny Eren liked was right next to him. Levi watched Eren sleep for a bit before picking up the baby monitor and going back to his room. Levi got ready for bed and as he picked up “ Rising a baby for idiots ” he noticed it was only 8:30. He laughed to himself. Normally he wouldn’t fall asleep until after midnight if he slept at all.
Since Eren was asleep again Levi should seriously try to do some work he didn’t want Erwin bugging him. Levi was actually able to work for a few hours before Eren’s piercing cry rang out through the monitor. Levi was up in a second and running to Eren’s nursery but stopped himself outside the door. He had read that you are supposed to let babies cry themselves to sleep. They need to learn to soothe themselves and not rely on someone to soothe them. Levi lasted about 2 minutes before he burst into Eren’s room.
He went and scooped Eren up patting and rubbing his back, “Shhh baby. It’s ok. You’re ok.”
Levi didn’t know how people could just sit and listen to babies cry like that. It was torture. Eren sniffled and buried his face between his shoulders. Levi went back to the rocking chair and rocked Eren back to sleep but as soon as he tried to lay Eren back down he started crying again. Levi tried multiple times but every time he tried to put Eren down he would scream bloody murder. He was getting frustrated. “Eren. You have to sleep. This isn’t funny.”
After a few, more unsuccessful attempts Levi gave up and took Eren back into his room. If Levi knew better he would think Eren was smirking as they lay in Levi’s bed. “This isn’t going to be a regular thing. You’re a big boy. And big boys sleep in their own room.”
Eren just sighed happily. Levi hated to admit it but sleeping next to Eren was the best night's sleep he ever got.
Before he knew it a week had passed. He and Eren had settled in a nice routine. Levi loved walking up to Eren’s smiling face. Eren was a fast learner; he could stand up on his own but he wasn’t quite walking yet. Eren had also learned the words yes, no, and yay. It annoyed Levi to no end that he still wouldn’t say his name.
“Yes! Yes!” Eren cheered as they played one morning. Levi had bought Eren an ocean-themed sensory table and Eren was obsessed with it.
“Fish!” Eren cried happily.
Levi raised his eyebrow. That was a new word. “Yes, Eren. That’s a fish.”
“Fish, fish, fish!” Levi chuckled as Eren wobbled around the table pointing out the various fish.
“Maybe later we will watch a documentary on the ocean.”
Eren looked at him with his big emerald eyes, “Yes! Ooen”
Levi smiled. “Ooo trying to say, ocean baby? It’s oh-shn.”
Eren cocked his head and tried again, “oen”
Levi hummed. “Close. You’ll get it. Let’s try Levi again. Remember? Lee-vie.”
Eren turned around and started playing with the table again. Levi huffed and grabbed the remote to turn on an ocean documentary. But the doorbell rang.
Eren looked at him curiously. That was interesting. The social worker was coming by tomorrow to make sure everything was still going ok.
He kissed Eren’s head, “Are you expecting someone Eren?”
“No!” Eren said with a giggle.
“Well then, Come here my sweet.” He picked up Eren and placed him in his playpen. “I’ll be right back.”
“No! No!” Eren gleefully shouted.
Levi shook his head as he walked to the door. Opening the door Levi was bombarded with his friends. Hange pushed their way inside holding a pile of gifts, “Hello! Aunty Hange is here!”
Levi looked behind them and noticed Erwin, Armin, Moblit, Petra, and Oluo standing looking sheepishly.
“What the fuck are you doing here?”
Hange gasped, “I’ve had enough! You can’t just send pictures of the cutest baby ever and not let me see them!”
Levi looked back into the family room. He knew that eventually he’d have to start socializing Eren with other people but it was nice having Eren completely relying on him. “Fine. Come in. Eren’s in the family room.”
Everyone filed in and Erwin patted his shoulder, “I’m sorry. I tried to keep them away. But..”
Levi shrugged, “It’s ok. At least you came at a good time. The social worker is coming tomorrow.”
In the family room, Eren was standing up in his playpen looking around curiously. As soon as Hange saw him they screamed. It must have scared Eren because he fell back and let out a loud wail.
Levi pushed to the front and went to pick up Eren. “You idiot.” He hissed at Hange. “You can’t scream like that.” He patted Eren’s back. “It’s ok, my love. That’s just Hange. They are crazy.”
Hange cooed and stood over them. “I’m sorry Eren. I can’t help myself. Look at you!”
Eren looked at Hange with big eyes. Levi kissed Eren’s cheek. “These are my friends. Be nice?”
Eren looked around at his friends then buried his face in Levi’s shoulder.
Hange sighed, “Look at him! Eren! Look at me!!!” Eren peaked out shyly. Levi bounced Eren. “Can you wave hi? Say hi?” Eren shyly waved. Everyone gasped and cooed.
Levi put Eren down. As everyone crowded him trying to get his attention. Eren quickly got used to the attention and was soon laughing and giggling.
Petra looked at him, “What’s his favorite toy?”
“Um it was that stuffed bunny but lately he’s been obsessed with that stuffed dolphin.”
Petra nodded and grabbed the dolphin twirling it in Eren’s face, “Look Eren!”
Eren giggled and reached for the toy.
“Can you talk, Eren?” Hange demanded.
“No!” Eren yelled, smiling big.
Hange gasped and poked Eren’s stomach. “You mean yes.”
“No!” Eren demanded.
Hange cackled, “Aw! Looks like Levi is rubbing off on you! No is his favorite word as well.”
Levi scoffed, “Very funny Hange.”
“Yes!” Eren screamed.
Hange screamed back, “Did you see that! He thinks I’m funny!”
Eren laughed and screamed back at Hange. Levi groaned. He had a feeling Eren would match Hange’s energy.
Moblit came up next to him and lightly patted him on the back, “I think we are going to have a difficult time separating them.”
Levi sighed as Hange tickled Eren’s stomach., “20 bucks says they try to kidnap him.”
Moblit groaned, “The last thing we need at our house is a child. You can keep him.”
Erwin chuckled next to him, “I can’t believe I lived to see the day where Levi Ackerman is happy.”
Oluo laughed from the couch- he had moved as far away from Eren as possible, “I can’t believe it’s still alive! That must mean you're doing something right Levi!”
Levi growled at Oluo, “ It’s name is Eren and he is the best thing that’s happened to me.”
Oluo held up his hands in defense. “Sorry.”
Eren let out a cry and Levi whipped his head around. Petra, Hange, and Armin had backed up from him and looked at Levi desperately.
Levi looked at his watch. “Oh, it’s lunchtime. He always gets fussy when he’s hungry.”
Armin stood up and fiddled with his hands, “Um Levi? Do you think I could help feed him?”
Hange jumped up, “I want to help too!”
Levi chuckled and went to pick up Eren. “Well, he eats on his own. But you can try.”
Petra clapped her hands, “Yes! I want help!”
Armin, Petra, and Hange followed him into the kitchen. After he put Eren into his high chair he went to the fridge, “Ok my sweet. What do you want for lunch?”
“Yes!”
“Yes Eren, it's lunchtime.”
Hange giggled, “It’s soooo cute how you talk to him!”
Levi felt his face heat up, “Shut up. It’s important for Eren’s development that I talk to him.” Levi cut up some strawberries, turkey, and cheese and brought the plate over to Eren. “Lunch is served.”
Eren screamed and started stuffing food into his mouth. Hange cooed. “Messy eater aren’t ya Eren? I bet Levi loves that.”
Levi put a sippy cup filled with water in front of Eren. “We are working on it.”
Petra giggled. “He’s a good eater. Oluo’s niece never eats.”
Levi smiled. “Three meals a day. I swear his stomach is a black hole.”
Armin smiled. “He’s seriously so cute Levi. I'm jealous.”
Levi was enjoying bragging about Eren. “If you point to a piece of food he’ll eat it.”
Armin smiled and pointed to a piece of cheese, “Cheese, Eren.”
“Che!” Eren said as he picked up the cheese and chewed it.
Armin gasped. “Wow!”
Hange pointed to a piece of turkey. “Eat the turkey Eren!” Hange screamed again when Eren ate the turkey.
Thus the game of point and eat. Everyone was having a blast. Levi had to push the jealousy aside. It was good that Eren was comfortable around his friends. But he missed feeding his baby. After Eren had finished his lunch Levi reluctantly let his friends clean Eren up. “Alright.” He said picking Eren up. “It’s nap time.”
“Awww” Hange started. “He's not tired! Let him stay up.”
Levi looked at Eren. “Are you tired baby?”
“No!” Eren shouted in his face. Levi should have known.
“Please?” Armin and Petra begged. “Just a little longer?”
Levi sighed. “I guess we can walk to the park.”
Hange jumped up and down excitedly, “Yes! Yes! I swear after the park we’ll let Eren sleep!”
“Yes yes!” Eren chanted back.
Petra stroked Eren’s cheek, “Can you say park Eren?”
“Pa!”
Levi kissed Eren’s cheek. “Good try! Also if Eren gets fussy someone else gets to deal with him.”
Armin, Petra, and Hange practically killed each other for the privilege of pushing Eren’s stroller. Eventually, they agreed to a trade-off.
Levi walked a few paces behind them next to Erwin. Erwin groaned when it was Armin’s turn to push the stroller, “I don’t know why I let Armin come. Now he’s going to beg me for a baby.”
“Ha. I can’t imagine you as a father, Erwin.”
“Stranger things have happened my friend. Look at you. You’re practically beaming with fatherly pride.”
Levi wrinkled his nose. “I’m not Eren’s father. But I’ll admit. It’s nice taking care of someone. It actually feels like my life has meaning.”
“Mm. What are you going to do when you come back to work?”
Levi froze. He had only taken 2 months off. He totally forgot he had to go back to work. “Fuck. I haven’t thought that far yet.”
Erwin patted his back. “Better start thinking about care for Eren. Our company needs its Vice President.”
Levi listened to Eren’s joyful cries for a moment before nodding. “You’re right. I can’t stay home forever.”
Eren was extra fussy on the walk back home. He chuckled at Hange’s panicked face. “Oh no. You three wanted to take him out. You can deal with him.”
Petra bent down and picked up Eren, bouncing him. “Aww, it’s ok. I bet you are just tired.”
Hange tickled Eren, “You aren’t as fun when you’re fussy.”
Eren cried louder and reached for him. Levi smiled and took Eren from Petra’s arms. Eren quieted down a little bit but was still whimpering. “I told you staying up past nap time was a bad idea.”
Thankfully Eren went down for his nap without a fuss after everyone said goodbyes. While Eren was napping, Levi started doing research on a nanny.
Levi knew he wanted an in-home nanny, Eren was still too young to go to daycare. Levi also knew he wanted someone with years of experience, good with kids, and was an omega preferably a female. Levi would probably have to interview tons of people before finding the right person and Eren would have to approve of them.
Eren was all smiles when he woke up. “Ah! There’s my smiling boy. Feel better after a nap?”
“Ya!” Was Eren’s reply.
“Good.” He picked Eren up and sat back down in front of the computer. “Ok, Eren. This is a computer. And on the screen are nannies. Do you see any you like?”
Eren babbled and slapped the keyboard. Levi kissed the top of Eren’s curly hair. “Mm ok. This might be more difficult than I thought.” Levi eventually selected 3 nannies to interview. He prayed that he’d find one before he went back to work.
Levi and Eren ended up interviewing 5 potential nannies before finding the perfect one. Her name was Krista and she was a 25-year-old omega in college working on her degree in social work. Her parents ran an orphanage so she had lots of experience with kids. Plus Eren loved her.
In the days leading up to his first day back at work, Levi installed cameras all over the apartment. He also spent every waking moment with Eren. He tried to explain to Eren that he’d be leaving for the day but he would be back. He didn’t want Eren thinking he was abandoning him. On Monday morning Levi got ready as Eren slept.
When he was ready he picked Eren up and just enjoyed the feeling of holding him. “Ok. Today is going to be different. I have to go to work. And you are going to hang out with Krista. I want you to be good, ok?”
“Ootay.” Levi doubted Eren understood.
He fed Eren his breakfast of yogurt and cereal and at 7:30 on the dot, the doorbell rang. Levi swallowed and quickly cleaned Eren up before putting him in his playpen.
Krista smiled as he opened the door. “Hello, Mr. Ackerman!”
“Hi, Krista. Come on in.”
Krista smiled at Eren, “Hello cutie!! Are you excited for today?”
“Ya!” Eren said as he reached for Krista.
Levi grinned. “He’s already eaten breakfast. He can have a snack around 10. He normally eats lunch around 12:30. He’ll get sleepy after that. I’m only working a half-day so I’ll be home by 2.”
Krista nodded, “Perfect.”
“Great. I left my cell and work number on the fridge. Don’t hesitate to call for anything. You know where all his favorite toys are. His stroller is in his nursery if you want to walk to the park. Um. What else?” Levi scratched the back of his head. He was nervous. This would be the first time in 3 months that he wouldn’t be with Eren all hours of the day.
Krista chuckled. “It’s ok to be nervous. The first day away is always the hardest. Eren and I will be fine won’t we Eren?”
“Yes!” Eren screamed, bouncing in his playpen.
Levi nodded. He trusted Krista, plus he would only be gone for 6 hours. “Ok. I’m going to get going.” Levi sighed and picked Eren up. “Baby. I want you to behave for Krista alright? I’ll be back by the time you wake up from your nap. Promise.”
Levi didn’t want to leave. Krista patted his back, “Some advice. It’s best to just rip off the bandaid. Here I’ll distract him while you leave. See you at 2!”
Levi gave Eren one last kiss on the cheek and passed Eren to Krista.
Krista bounced Eren. “We are going to have so much fun! Reading books, playing games… maybe even going to the park!”
While Eren was distracted Levi quickly gathered his things and jogged to the front door. When he opened the door he heard Eren cry out. Probably confused why he wasn’t in sight anymore. With a heavy heart, Levi walked out and closed the door.
Erwin greeted him with a cup of tea. “Ah! I’m surprised you made it.”
Levi snatched the tea from Erwin. “It was fine. Now excuse me I have work to do.”
Erwin hummed, “Yes, about 3 months of work to catch up on!”
Levi would never admit it to anyone but the first 2 hours back in his office were spent watching the nanny cams. It was absolutely heartbreaking. Eren seemed to be inconsolable. Nothing Krista was doing made him stop crying. Levi wanted to go home, to call Krista. But he knew he couldn’t stay home forever. He knew Eren needed to learn that he wouldn’t be around to coddle him forever. Levi was glad he’d only be working until lunch. He didn’t think he could handle being away from Eren all day. He did manage to get a little work done. At 1:30 Levi packed up his things and practically ran out of the office. When he got home he noticed that it was quiet.
Krista was sitting in the front room doing her homework. “Right on time Mr. Ackerman!”
Levi grinned. “How’d today go?”
Krista started packing up her things, “About as well as can be expected. He was a little fussy for most of the morning. I took him for a walk right before lunch. He ate lunch and I put him down about 20 minutes ago.”
“Wow. I’m surprised you got him to sleep.”
“I have the magic touch.”
Levi led Krista to the front door, “I’ll see you tomorrow? Same time?”
Krista nodded, “7:30 sharp! Have a good rest of your day!”
After Krista left Levi ran to Eren’s nursery. Eren was still fast asleep but he had tear stains drying on his cheeks. Levi didn’t want to wake him so he sat in the rocking chair next to the crib and watched Eren sleep. When Eren woke up he looked at him and pouted.
Levi chuckled, “Aw baby. Don’t be like that. I promised I’d come back, didn't I?”
Eren’s lower lip wobbled and he started to cry. Levi frowned and picked Eren patting his back. “Shhh, it’s ok.”
“No.” Eren’s wobbly little voice spoke out.
Levi felt like shit. “Did you think I wasn’t coming back? I’m sorry. I had work.”
Eren looked at him, tears still spilling down his face. Levi wiped them. “My love. Don’t cry. I have to work to make money to continue spoiling you.”
Eren sniffled. “Otay.”
Levi kissed Eren’s cheeks, “There’s my boy. How ‘bout we go watch that ocean documentary you like then have dinner? And because it was a rough day for both of us I’ll even let you have some cake.”
“Ya!” Now Eren was smiling. Levi would do anything to make his love smile.
Levi smiled and walked to the front room. Eren refused to leave his arms when the movie started and Levi wasn’t complaining. He enjoyed kissing Eren’s head and rubbing his back. “You know… I missed you too today.”
Eren looked back at him, cocking his head. “Ya?”
“Mmhm. Didn’t like being away from my baby.” Eren nodded and turned back to the documentary.
Levi shook his head and poked Eren’s side. “You promise you’ll always miss me when I go to work?”
Eren clapped and giggled. “No.”
“That’s mean. I’ll always miss you.”
“Mean!”
Levi sighed. “Ooo a new word? Come on Eren. Say, Levi!”
“Mean!”
Levi poked Eren’s side again. “Yes. You’re being mean. Why won’t you say my name? Don’t you love me?”
“No!”
Levi kissed Eren’s cheek. “Well, I love you.”
“Love?” Eren questioned.
Levi beamed. “Very good Eren. Love.”
He stood up and put Eren in his playpen. “You hang out here and watch your show and I’m going to make us dinner.”
“Love ou!”
Levi bent down and kissed Eren’s nose. “It would be better if you could say “I love you, Levi.” But that will have to do for now.”
Levi made them chicken, mashed potatoes, asparagus, and carrots for dinner. He spoon-fed Eren his dinner and after he ate everything he cut a tiny piece of cake to let Eren have. Eren gasped and slapped the table excitedly when he saw the cake. Eren loved sweet things. “Now can you promise me you won’t go crazy after eating this?”
“No!”
Levi chuckled. “I had a feeling.”
After a bath, Levi read Eren a story and cuddled. Levi had stopped making Eren sleep in his nursery. They both slept better together.
Levi had officially been back at work for three months. As much to his dismay Eren had stopped crying when he left. It broke Levi’s heart. His baby could care less if he was gone during the day.
Fridays had become Levi’s favorite day. He always got off early and got a head start on spending the weekend with Eren. Without any interruptions.
At 12:30 sharp, Levi had started to collect his things when Erwin came into his office, “Levi, I know it’s Friday. But I need you to stay late tonight.”
Levi scoffed. “Today of all days?”
Erwin nodded, “Unfortunately. Someone screwed up the reports and I need them fixed by Monday.”
“Why can’t you do it if it’s so important?”
Erwin smirked. “Armin is starting his heat. I’ll be gone all next week.”
Levi clicked his tongue. “Damnit. Erwin. I promised Eren we would watch this new documentary tonight.”
Erwin patted his shoulder, “Well if you hurry up and stop bitching you might make it home before 7.”
Levi sighed and sat back down in his chair. He needed to call Krista.
Krista answered on the first ring, “Mr. Ackerman! Is everything alright?”
“Hi, Krista. Everything is fine but I have to stay late tonight. Hopefully, I’ll be home by 6. Is that ok?”
“That’s fine! Is it ok if I make Eren dinner? Anything specific he shouldn’t have?”
Levi sighed. This would be the first time he’d miss making Eren dinner. “Uh. I think there is some pasta in the cabinet. There is red sauce and meat in the fridge. He will make a mess.”
Krista chuckled. “Ok, that’s quick and easy. I promise I’ll clean everything up.”
Levi could hear Eren screaming excitedly in the background. “How is he doing today?”
“Oh, he’s fine! We were just about to go to the park. I got his stroller out, that's why he’s screaming.”
“Park and pasta? Eren sure is lucky.”
“Well. He’s been so good lately and he’s going to be awfully disappointed that you’ll be late tonight.”
“I know. Let me talk to him?”
“One second! Eren, come here sweetie! Levi wants to say hi.”
Once Levi was positive Eren was on the phone he said, “Hi baby.”
“Hi.” Erens soft voice rang out.
“I’ll be home later tonight. We will have to watch the documentary later.”
“Ootay.” Levi knew Eren probably didn’t understand what he was saying but Levi appreciated the gesture.
“I love you.”
“Love ou.”
Levi beamed. Eren still couldn’t say his name. But love was enough. “I’ll see you tonight. Be good.”
“Bye.” Eren most likely passed the phone back to Krista because she sighed dreamily on the other end, “Aw! It’s so nice to see how much you care about him. I’ll let you get back to work! Text me when you’re off?”
“Of course. Thank you so much for staying. I really appreciate it.”
“It’s no trouble! I love watching Eren! He’s a dream when he’s not screaming and crying in a rage.”
Levi agreed. Though he almost missed the days when Eren would scream, cry and act out until he got home. Now it was like Eren could care less if he was home or not. “Alright, Krista. Text me if you need anything.”
“Bye Mr. Ackerman.”
8:30. That’s when Levi finally got off work. He was pissed. He actually finished the reports early and was about ready to leave when he got called to HR to deal with some report of harassment. He couldn’t believe that he missed Eren’s bedtime.
Krista was sitting on the couch scrolling through her phone when Levi walked in. “Hi. Krista sorry I'm so late. Everything go ok tonight?”
Krista stood up smiling. “It’s fine! Eren did just fine! I'm glad I took him to the park and tired him out because he went down without a fight!”
Levi nodded and felt a pang in his heart. Eren went to bed without him? A part of him was hoping that Krista wouldn't be able to put Eren to sleep. “That’s good. Did He eat dinner?”
“Yes. I made pasta with red sauce, meat, and veggies! Messy little boy. I think he got more on his face than in his stomach!”
“I don’t doubt it. I’ll see you Monday?”
“Of course. Also, I made a plate of pasta for you and left it in the microwave. I wasn’t sure if you ate dinner or not.”
Levi smiled. “Krista you are an angel. Thank you.”
Before Levi could eat he went to check on Eren and found him sleeping peacefully in his crib. He watched Eren sleep for a few minutes then decided to eat dinner before his growling stomach woke Eren up. He quickly ate and showered. As he relaxed in bed he was deciding if he should bring Eren in with him because he couldn’t sleep with Eren next to him. But Levi was exhausted and he didn’t want to wake Eren up then not be able to go back to sleep.
As if on cue Eren’s cry rang out through the baby monitor. Levi jumped up and ran to his boy. Eren was standing up in his crib reaching for him and whining. “Hello, my love.”
“Hi!”
Levi chuckled and picked Eren up. “I missed you today. I don’t like going the whole day without seeing you.”
“Miss you?” Eren said, cocking his head.
Levi bounced Eren lightly and kissed his cheeks. “Yes. I love you.”
Eren giggled. “Love ou Lee!”
Levi froze and looked at Eren. “What did you say, baby?”
Eren giggled again. “Love Lee!”
Levi couldn’t believe it. In the 6 months since adopting Eren, he has never said his name. “Are you trying to say, my name baby?”
“Lee!” Eren screamed in his face.
Levi felt himself tear up. He twirled himself and Eren around. Eren screamed in excitement. “Lee! Lee!”
“Yes, baby.” Levi laughed as he tossed Eren up and down in the air.
That night Levi let Eren sleep on his chest. Levi had never imagined he could have been so happy for someone saying his name. But hearing Eren’s soft little voice saying his name…. He shoot his head and lightly rubbed Eren’s back. Eren shifted a bit and buried his face into his chest. Levi purred. Happiness overflowing. His life couldn’t get any better