"Here. That's my key to the penthouse, so you don't have to ring on the doorbell every time. I borrow it trustfully to your hands, so I expect you giving them back to me once I'm home again. Don't lose it, or you'll lose your head, got it, brat?"

You're speechless. Levi hands you the key to his home, to come and go as you please as if it's your own home. With shaky hands, you reach out to grab the keys, afraid Levi might take it back any moment.

"Thank you, Levi. I promise I will look out for them, and for Erwin. Someone has to be the mature one while you're away."

"Tch, you have no idea how right you are, brat." He mused, with a little smirk. Looks like you hit the nail on the head. As you pack away the keyring into your pocket, the door to Erwin's room sways open to reveal a fully and neatly dressed Erwin Smith, with accurately combed and styled hair, shaved beard and fresh-looking expression. That's much better and much easier to look at, even though the view was still gorgeous. He's such a handsome specimen, and he knows that. That's what makes him so dangerous.

"I hope you left some food for me, guys." Erwin took his usual place after he poured himself a mug of coffee.

"Tch. Of course. You think we're as greedy as you?" Levi rolled his eyes, looking back to his phone and eating the last piece of his buttered toast. Now it was time for you and Erwin to take over control of the talking, like many times before, but this time, mostly to discuss how and on which days you're going to spend your time here. Since it's your last week of vacation, Erwin and you agreed that you stay here until work starts for you again, after that, you will go to your own apartment and only come over after Friday's regular training with him. After this plan was settled and blessed from Levi, you finished breakfast, cleaned up the table and get dressed to bring Levi to the airport.

Since the moment when you sat down in the car, a strange feeling began to grow in the depths of your stomach. It wasn't hunger or nausea, but it was uncomfortable anyway. When Erwins Audi left the underground parking lot, and the closer you came to the airport, the feeling grew and grew.

The whole long route, the only sounds hearable were the engines steady and low roaring. None of you said a word, the tension in here was almost tangible.

When you reached the parking lot of the airport, Erwin parked right in front of the main entrance, for quick unpacking and leaving. Levi was just about to get out when Erwin patted his forearm to make him turn around again.

"Levi. Take care of yourself and come back safely. Good luck." Erwin reached out his hand for a shake, and without long musing, Levi took it in a firm shake.

"Thanks, Erwin. Look our for Nina while I'm away. Wish you a good time." Such friendly words from Levi towards Erwin...you can't remember the last time when he spoke such words! You thought this is maybe because of Levis long absence and that Erwin doesn't want to let his roommate go without any last friendly words, but that would be wrong. You tend to forget that these two men share a common past and went through a lot together. That's maybe the reason why they act with each other like they do at home and share friendly and deep emotional acts once something big is about to happen. Just as now.

With a hum, Erwin released Levis hand to let him go, that's your keyword to give Levi your own farewell.

As soon as Levi slammed the trunk lid closed, you jump out of the car to join his side, walking inside the big main hall of the airport next to him. On the big screen where all flights are shown, you searched for Levis flight. Next one to London was about to board in 1 hour. This should be enough time to stay here a little longer, but unfortunately, it's not. This one hour is also including the boarding time they need to store the luggage and book in every single passenger until everyone has to be on his place inside the plane. This means Levi has to hurry.

"So. I better go and check-in. Or they'll board without me. You alright?" He asked, still observing the large flight panel screen.

"M-hm" You hum lowly in response, what Levi caused to turn around. You haven't even realized that you looked down to the ground, only when Levi brought his hands to your cheeks to tilt it up to meet his eyes, you noticed.

"Baby, you sure you're okay? You look pale." Now the uncomfortable feeling in your guts reached its limit when your eyes spilled over with tears out of nothing. Now you know what this feeling is: parting pain.

Still shocked from your sudden change of mood, Levi first didn't realize how you jump up to him, arms wrapping tight around his back as you sobbed desperately into his shoulder.

"Darling...please don't cry. You know very well I can't stand seeing you cry." He tried to smooth the waves, but his words only caused you more pain.

A few people stopped to gaze at the heartbreaking scene but kept walking once they noticed Levi was glaring death threats at them. When he was sure no one was disturbing, he wrapped his arms around your body, caging you in a tight embrace.

"Shhh...I know darling it's hard. But I have to go. I'll be back before you miss me."

"No! I already miss you, and you're not even past the security! I want to come with you! I'll hide in your luggage!" The desperate ideas to stay with him, no matter what, might sound funny and amusing, but they weren't. You are dead serious. Your arms wrap tighter around Levis back, pressing him against you frantically.

"Don't be foolish, Nina. You know that's not possible. I would love to have you with me, but I can't. And as much as I want to stay, I can't either. Please let go, don't make this more difficult as it already is." Levi spoke lowly, to calm you down in some way, but you clung to him like an addicted to his drug.

"No!" You sound like a little child who doesn't want to let his daddy go on his first day at school, but Levi endured your rebellious and stubborn behavior with great patience, not daring to break the embrace until you're not ready for it, but time was running out for him. Either he stays like this and skips his flight on purpose, or he forces you to let go of him to get it. That was until you felt two additional strong hands on your shoulders that pulled you away, gently, tenderly, but still with a force within that you just had to let go of Levi. A big arm pressed you against a broad and chiseled body, keeping you close as Levi arranged his jacket.

"Thanks, Erwin. I already feared I will miss my plane." Of course...Erwin. Who else would dare to part a loving couple so ruthlessly? Regardless of the little anger, you feel for him right now, you take advantage of the new body as you bury your eyes deeply in his coat, sobbing and whimpering. One last time, you feel Levis hand landing on your head, slowly stroking down your cheek as you tilt your head aside to look at him through grief-clouded eyes, his finger gently wiping a pearling tear away.

"Stay strong while I'm away. You can do it, I'm certain. I love you." That was his last words as he placed a kiss on your cheek. The last thing you saw was his flying coat as he spun around to grab his trolley to walk to the security for check-in. Only you and Erwin stayed behind. Your heart wrenched from the intense pain you feel as if Levi's about to go and never come back again. For as long as Levi was visible from your point of view, you didn't dare to move even a bit, afraid to miss one last gaze he would throw at you. But he didn't. Very soon, he disappeared behind the barrier that parts the flight passengers from the ones who are just here for a visit or those who accompany their beloved ones. Erwin's arms wrapped around your frame to offer you comfort, which you willingly accept now. He is the only one around now who's close enough to allow this kind of contact and from whom you expected this in times of need.

Erwin rubbed and stroked your back and head with his large hand to calm you down, slowly dragging you towards the entrance.

"Come, sweetie. We can't stay here forever. Let's go home." You didn't respond, but let him guide you back into the car. As Erwin took his seat and his hands landed on the stirring wheel, he pushed the button for Engine Start and pushed down the accelerator to let the engine roar, a loud warning to those who dare to walk on the street in front of his car. When the road was free, he let yanked the shift knob on D and left the parking space, heading straight to the highway.

The way back felt way longer than it should, and from your window, you spotted a rising plane in the distance. Maybe this is Levis, who knows? Suddenly, you had this weird feeling, as if you're part of a cheesy anime where the young couple has to part and they share one last gaze, while he is flying away farther and farther, while she sits in the car, crying her lonely tears. Very cheesy, but that's how you feel right now. The imagination alone was enough to fill your eyes with tears again, but you don't want to cry in front of Erwin, not again, so you did your best to keep your sobs inside, crying silently while just a little sniff and choke here and there was hearable. Erwins hand landed on your thigh, patting it comfortingly while his eyes were glued to the streets, but the gesture was loving anyways. By taking his hand in yours, squeezing it, you accept the comfort he's granting you, not giving a shit about that he's your friend who'd fallen in love with you.

Levis P.O.V.

The whole and night morning were filled with desperation for me. I would never admit it openly, not even to Nina, but I felt very tempted to cancel this shitty contract and take the risk to get fired. Anything to stay here with my girl. I took possession and advantage of her body the whole night, so shamelessly, that I felt not just dirty on the outside, but also from the inside. I clung to her every expression, every move, and sound, that I didn't want this feeling, this night, to end, so I took her again and again, not thinking about what tomorrow holds. As I was standing under the shower after hours and hours of merciless fucking, I couldnt really focus on what lays ahead of me. This contract, the person I need to protect, the foreign country, it all was meaningless, all I could think of was that I was about to leave the love of my life alone for three entire weeks. A normal and rational thinking human would just accept it and say its not a big deal. Three weeks arent such a long time, but these people never felt the deep love and connection I'm holding for Nina. The more I thought about it, the more painful became the reality.

I was surprised when I suddenly felt Nina's presence behind me, trying to sneak up on me to give me a shock. I couldnt hide my grin when she was busted in her action and I gave her a huge shock instead. That woman really knows how to chase away the dark clouds in my mind. I believed she wouldn't want to come along with me, that she'd rather sleep off her exhaustion, but here she was, taking a shower with me to join her man during his trip to the airport. The mere view of her body let me feel at ease, but the dark marks and stains I'd left all over he skin let my heart drop. She looked like a treasure map, just without the X to mark the spot, and it's my fault again. Nina even warned and threatened me that I should not touch her. Sure as hell she's in pain because of this, but I couldnt hold back. I wanted to feel her skin beneath my calloused hands, just one more time. I took the risk and placed my hands on her waist, very carefully, my touch not heavier as a feather, and she let me stay. How relieved I was to feel her again. The moment, as close and wonderful as it was, had come to an end the moment when Erwin burst into the room. His mean tease and the fact that Nina was bare naked standing before me, made something snap inside my head. I covered Nina body with my arms, pressed her close to me and bargained Erwin out of the room, so I and my woman can finish in peace.

Once more, I was confronted that I wasn't the only one living here, and even if I think very highly of Erwin, as my best friend and comrade, more and more I came to realize, that his presence had become a disturbance. If this behavior won't become less or if Erwin even dares to treat Nina the way like last evening, I'm seriously thinking about to move out for a shared apartment with Nina. Of course, she has to approve, but I can't banish the thought of Erwin still having feelings for her, although Nina proved worthy of my trust, so as Erwin. I can't banish the nagging jealousy that's hiding in the deepest pits of my mind.

After we finished the shower to get dressed, I watched Nina with admiration, every sly and subtle move to pull the clothes on her body. Even something so casual and normal-like Nina getting dressed was like watching a sexy pole dancer in front of me. My eyes landed on her hips, which had stay round and curvy, no matter how long and hard she'd already trained with Eyebrows. A sudden unforeseen thought flamed up in my head as I approached my woman from behind, lacing my arms around her waist to let my hands linger on her lower abdomen. I don't know why, or how, but somehow, I was imagining how it would feel like or how would it be if Nina was carrying my child. I closed my eyes and tried to picture her with a little belly and the little life she carries inside as my hands rubbed over her belly slowly and steadily. I never thought or believed I was meant to be a dad, but the thought of Nina having my child sent a wave of joy through my body. If I should really become a father, I would also finally have a good reason to make my boss give me jobs in the city or the closer terrain. Like this, I never would need to travel to London, Japan or god knows where. Maybe one day in the not so far future, the time will be right to start a family. I smiled brightly into my woman's neck as I pictured us as parents with our little one, and I took this fantasy as my motivation to part from her to get this shitty day done.

Shortly before breakfast was over, I handed Nina my key to the penthouse, after Erwin so nonchalantly suggested to let her come here whenever she wants. I wouldn't admit it, but she needs Erwins support during my absence, that's for sure. Now was one of the moments when I realized, that these two morons need each other as well, and not just me needing her. I don't like it to share my girlfriend like this, but I also know I have no choice. When this means that Nina doesn't have to suffer while I'm away, then so be it.

On our way to the airport, the silence inside the car was disturbing, even for me. I knowledge of what lays ahead, the closer this moment came, the heavier and thicker the tension around me, around us, grew.

When we arrived, I was glad the Erwin kept his goodbye small, but loving, just saying the most necessary words, but I knew he meant them. I realized, I could never move out of our shared penthouse, even if I wanted it. This bushy eyebrowed bastard made sure at every opportunity to let me feel and know that he'd become a valuable and indelible part of my life. With a subtle smile, I left his car, knowing that this smartass bastard hat once more wrapped me around his finger. Stupid Eyebrows...Bring social is more difficult as it seems to be.

But the total overkill was when the moment came when Nina had to say goodbye. I saw that she was struggling with the situation, but I wasn't prepared for such a big and emotional outburst as she clung to me like a tick to its host. Her quivering and desperate cries wretched my heart and I felt now more than ever before tempted to just cancel everything about this contract to stay. Stupid rational thinking had to take control again when I replied that I had to, that I need to go to fulfill my duty. I almost sounded like the soldier I once was, except that this wasn't a farewell to join the war.

No matter what I said or did, Nina wouldn't let go, even complaining and behaving like a stubborn child. I smiled, regardless of the heartbreaking situation. I already feared I will miss my flight, what wouldn't be so bad because this means I can stay here with her, but when I finally felt her tight embrace loosening up, I saw Erwin again who took her under his wing as he offered her his chest to weep and sob. My guess was right. These two really need each other. I could never part them just because of my own sake. That would be selfish and cruel, too Nina and Erwin alike, and I would be the bad guy in this case. That's the last thing I want. If the only side effect for me is to be annoyed and angry when Erwin fools and jokes around with her, then so be it.

After one last kiss on her forehead, I finally took my leave to the security barrier, without looking back. Similar situations before already proved that I can't guarantee that I won't just run back to her if I dare to shoot one last gaze. I pulled all my self-control together and passed the security without looking back. Only when I reached the tax-free area with all the nasty and overpriced shops, I turned around. Just the mass of people and the scanning machines blocked my sight to see the entrance of the airport, where Nina surely is about to leave again. My heart dropped when I finally realized the hard reality that I won't be able to touch, smell or taste Nina for about three weeks, which also means that I won't find good sleep at all. With the flight ticket in my hand, I slowly made my way to the gate I was told to go, and by now, to which I was summoned to for the second time by now. Time was really running out for me, but I didn't rush. As I reached my gate, I handed my ticket, checked into the plane and took my seat by the window. Business class, of course. My boss knows about my attitude and since I placed more than one complaint about the lack of cleanliness either about my customers or the headquarter where my other colleagues are roaming around, it was soon crystal clear that I require other standards. Luckily, because of my fighting skills and my ability to stand my ground in front of way bigger opponents, no matter the risk or situation, I earned myself the reputation to be the Securities Strongest Bodyguard. Very fast I climbed into the high society, where I caught the attention of the rich ass people and their stupid and somethings awkward fears and sorrows, but soon I realized that I also had to face serious threats like kidnapping, death threats and robbery. It was diversified to work for these people, and it was a good payment. Plus, I finally got the treatment and privileges I asked for. Flying in business class was just one of many.

By the time when the plane was fully boarded and packed, I heard the turbines starting to yell and roar as the plane slowly drove out of his own, oversized parking lot to roll on the runway. The first moments before the plane will accelerate are always something special and thrilling, even for me, who'd flown quite a few times by now.

I fasted my seat belt and dug my fingers into my armrests, preparing for the start. The plane sped up so fast and sudden, that I gasped a little while I was pressed into my seat from the speed and gravity. Soon, the plane lifted off, the ground, buildings, streets and trees beneath becoming smaller and smaller with each second the higher the large Airbus A320 flew. In the distance, I saw the highway with the many cars driving, and even from my point of view, I caught sight of one outstanding white vehicle. I couldnt tell what brand or model it is, but I loved to imagine that its Erwins car, in which Nina

was sitting, looking up into the sky in hope to catch the last glimpse of me when our ways part for a while. I chuckled at my own childish and cheesy fantasy, but I liked it anyway. So I leaned back into my seat, pulled out my phone and earbuds to plug my ears, so I can at least listen to music while I have a few hours of flying ahead of me. As soon as I'll reach the ground at my destination, I will write Nina, to let her know I will stick to my promise.

Nina P.O.V.

After one hour of fast driving, you arrived back at the penthouse. When the entrance behind you fell into its frame, you began to feel the exhaustion and loneliness as they pull your body and mood down on a new level that you never experienced before. Undressing worked like on autopilot, and Erwin even had to guide you into the living room so you won't trip over your own feet.

"You alright sweetness? Do you need anything? Is there anything I can do for you?" He asked, his voice full of concern as he studied your face.

"I'm tired. I want to go to bed."

"You sure? Maybe you want to sleep on the c-"

"No, thanks, Erwin. I want to go to Levis bed. Please." You cut off Erwins suggestion, he surely wants to have a close eye on you, since he knows about your emotional and sensitive site more than anyone else. He sighed loudly, but hummed in agreement.

"As you wish. But if there's anything I can do for you, don't hesitate to ask, okay?"

"M-hm...I will. See ya later, blondie." Without looking back, you stroll away into Levis bedroom. You just want to be alone right now. Once inside, you undress just from your jeans and sweater before you let yourself fall into the bed like a heavy bag of potatoes, crouching on Levis side and pulling the duvet over your body. A big wave of Levis scent wells into your nose as you bury your face into his pillow, then, you broke. The tears just escaped your eyes, and nothing could've stopped them. Agony overwhelmed you mercilessly as you cried into the pillow, hugging and pressing it tightly to your face to keep the cries as silent as possible. As much as you love Erwin, he can't help you right now, no one can. You feel pitiful and miserable, and the last thing you want is Erwin to see you in this state. You cried minute over minute, until your voice became sore and coarse and until you, eventually, cried yourself into sleep.