Chapter 52: BACK TO WORK
It was finally time for Sana and Levi to return to their duties. The reasons for their absence remained a closely guarded secret, with Levi insisting on maintaining discretion for Sana's safety. He hoped that one day, when life became more stable and less perilous for her, they could share their truth with everyone.
After spending a week together with their family, they returned to their respective barracks. Isabel also enjoyed the full week of vacation, savoring her time off. However, Farlan had to leave midway during that week for urgent work, as some matters couldn't wait and Sana was unavailable to step in.
### **Back to Duty**
Levi's squad was perplexed by his week-long leave. It was unlike him to take such time off without explanation. Meanwhile, Sana's team had been given a week of rest after an extended period of continuous work. Now back in action, they resumed their critical projects. Through these projects, they were laying the groundwork for a revolutionary future—creating transistors, advanced capacitors, and batteries. Among these, developing efficient transistors was particularly challenging but pivotal. They were also working on basic cooling devices for food storage and for nobles to enjoy cooler summers.
Sana had mixed feelings about serving the upper class but couldn't disregard the trust Erwin and others had placed in her to propel this world forward. She knew that, in time, the balance of power would shift, and sensible people would lead.
As the day began, one of her teammates greeted her warmly. "Good morning, Sana-san. It's nice to see you again after so long."
"Good morning," she replied with a gentle smile. "It's good to be back."
The day progressed steadily, and as evening approached, Sana addressed her team. "I'll be living in my house. If you need my advice or permission for anything, I'll be available there, but only for urgent matters."
Her teammates congratulated her on getting her own place. "That's wonderful news, Sana-san! You deserve it," one of them said cheerfully.
Though she longed to share the news of her marriage, she refrained, her promise to Levi binding her to secrecy. "You can use my room here as a common area now," she added. "All my important documents and personal belongings have been moved."
As they packed up for the day, Sana headed home, leaving the team in high spirits. Layina wasn't with her today. Isabel had offered to watch her, knowing that Sana had a busy day ahead.
### **Back Home**
When Sana arrived, she found Levi, Isabel, and Layina already there. Layina ran up to her with outstretched arms.
"Mummmaaaa!" she exclaimed joyfully.
Sana scooped her up and peppered her face with kisses. "Yes, mumma is back, my little one!" she said, her voice filled with affection.
Layina giggled and wriggled free, returning to her playtime with Isabel. Sana informed them that Farlan would be late due to work commitments as he had to explain the budget for projects to higher ups. After freshening up, she was heading to the kitchen when Levi intercepted her.
"Sana, here's your tea," he said, handing her a steaming cup.
She smiled brightly, accepting the cup. They sat together in the common area, savoring the moment.
"How was your day?" Levi asked.
"It was good. A lot of work, but productive. How about yours?"
Levi sighed. "Shitty. We didn't do anything meaningful. In the past four years, there've been only a handful of expeditions, and even those felt like a waste."
Sana took a sip of tea and responded thoughtfully. "But isn't it a good thing that fewer lives are at risk now?"
"I'm not saying I want people to die," Levi clarified. "I just wish the training was taken more seriously. When disaster strikes—and it will—everyone will look to the Scouts to fight the Titans and other threats. We need to be ready."
Sana nodded. "You're right. I won't argue with that. But I'm still happy that people have a moment to breathe."
They finished their tea and moved to the kitchen to prepare dinner. While Isabel was washing clothes, Levi insisted that Sana rest, but she shook her head with a teasing smile.
"What?" he asked, noticing her gaze.
"Nothing. I just wonder what I did to deserve you," she said softly.
Levi's lips curved into a small smile. He stepped closer, placing a gentle kiss on her neck. "You're everything to me. Don't make me keep saying it," he murmured.
Sana closed her eyes, savoring the moment. Levi picked her up and carried her to the couch. "You stay here. I'll finish up."
Later, when Farlan returned from work and Layina came back from the park in front of the house, the family gathered around the dining table, chatting and enjoying their meal. They discussed their day and brainstormed ideas for decorating their new home. After dinner, they took a leisurely walk before preparing for bed.
Layina, exhausted from playing, fell asleep quickly. Sana tucked her into Isabel's bed before heading to her own room. Levi was at his desk, doing some paperwork before ironing clothes with an old-style steam iron. Sana worked on her blueprints and notes for future technologies—trains, planes, computers, and more. She wanted to ensure these designs were ready for the technological revolution she envisioned.
After a couple of hours, both finished their tasks. Sana walked up behind Levi and hugged him tightly.
"Sana," he said softly.
"What is it?" she asked.
"I've told you everything about me, and I guess you would already know about me—even things I'd rather want to forget. But I realized I don't know much about your past. If you're comfortable, I'd like to hear about it."
Her throat tightened. "I... I don't know where to start."
"It's okay," Levi assured her. "You don't have to share if you're not ready. I just don't want you to carry anything alone. If you ever miss your old life, you can talk to me about it."
Tears welled up in her eyes. "I don't miss it that much. Sometimes I miss my siblings, but when I'm with you all, I feel complete."
Levi pulled her into a tight embrace as she continued. "My house wasn't a happy one. I never truly understood what it meant to be loved until I met you all. You're the first person to care for me so deeply. My life now feels like heaven."
She broke into quiet sobs, burying her face in his chest. Levi held her, stroking her hair and whispering comforting words. She told him everything—her fears, her hopes, and the painful memories she had locked away.
Neither noticed when they drifted off to sleep, entwined in each other's arms, a quiet peace settling over them as the night stretched on.