#anlian-aishang
Levi was never an affectionate sleeping partner.
The first night you spent together, you were off-put by the way he turned on his side and faced the wall opposite to you. Sheets, comforter, blankets all seemingly and selfishly bundled at his chest. You had imagined he would curl into your side, perhaps become your big spoon, but his state remained unchanged all throughout those eight hours - sans the occasional shiver and snore.
It was nothing personal towards you, but rather, personal to himself. Growing up in the underground, his only covers torn and battered. Cold every night, winter brought the risk of freezing. Levi had learned to kindle his warmth, and even after he had been brought to the surface, that was one habit he had not left behind. It would be many more nights until he shared that history with you.
But over those nights - the fire you spark in him, the heat you run through his veins - they gradually melt away his chilling survival tactics. Replacing them are movements made from the heart rather than dictated by physiology.
After one week, he brushes the stray strands of hair from your sleeping face.
After one month, he drapes an arm over your waist - his hand cups your side.
Seasons pass and bring new signs of affection. In the fall, he holds your hand as wind and wolves howl. In the winter, he envelops you into a big spoon - even warmer than the covers. During the spring storms, Levi whispers over the thunder and rain, ensuring you that everything will be alright as long as you’re with him. And on sultry summer nights, Levi strips you free from your clothes, not to be put back on until morning.
Still, the scars from his past have not completely vanished. Waking up in the middle of the night, he will stare at you for a handful of seconds to make sure you are still breathing. Nightmares are a chronic condition - terrors of unspeakable things. Levi shoots up from sleep with a cold sweat and heavy breathlessness. He used to think there was no cure, but one has managed to appear at his side. Less than a foot away is an angel: skin encased in moonlight, the stars reflecting on all your features. At the mere sight of you, Levi is able to breathe again. When he presses his body soundly to yours, he is safe again. Night terrors and insomnia no longer dominate his days, but are as fleeting as dreams themselves - sparse tears and silent words adorn your skin - all thanks to you.
Levi was never an affectionate sleeping partner, that was until he found one of his own.
Oh no Anlian I’m soft
Levi sleeping… Levi learning how to relax when he’s next to you… Realizing that he can get a good night’s sleep as long as he’s by your side. This man deserves the world and so much more, I just want him to be safe and sound and taken care of ❤️❤️❤️
