Shattered Pieces (Annie Leonhardt X Male Reader)

Friendship amidst war

"You gotta be joking, right?" Annie was shocked to hear the news, she couldn't bring herself to believe that her easygoing, a bit air-headed friend is going to be a mother soon.

"Annie, why do you have to downplay me this much." Hitch answered with annoyance.

Annie's eyebrows shot up in surprise, her typical stoic demeanor giving way to genuine astonishment. "I'm not downplaying you," she replied, her voice tinged with disbelief. "It's just... unexpected."

Hitch let out a huff of exasperation, crossing her arms over her chest. "Well, I am pregnant, and it's happening whether you believe it or not," she retorted, her annoyance evident.

Annie quickly realized that her initial reaction may have come across as dismissive, and she softened her tone. "I'm sorry, Hitch. It's just... I never pictured you as the motherly type."

Hitch's expression softened a bit as she looked at Annie, a mix of amusement and frustration in her eyes. "Yeah, I get that a lot," she admitted. "But life has its surprises, doesn't it?"

Annie nodded, her mind still trying to process the news. She had always known Hitch as a carefree and easygoing person, not one to be tied down by responsibilities. And yet, here she was, about to embark on the journey of motherhood.

As the conversation continued, Hitch shared her feelings about the upcoming changes in her life. "I won't lie, Annie. It's scary. The thought of being responsible for another life, of bringing a child into this world... it's overwhelming."

Annie listened attentively, her eyes showing a rare glimpse of empathy. "I can imagine," she replied quietly. "It's a huge responsibility."

Hitch leaned back in her chair, looking out the window as she continued, "But you know what's even scarier? The idea of never experiencing this, of not having someone to share my life with. I never thought I'd be ready for something like this, but... I feel like I am."

Annie could sense the sincerity in Hitch's words, and she felt a sense of admiration for her friend's courage and honesty. "It takes a lot of strength to face the unknown," she said softly. "I believe you'll be a great mother."

A small smile tugged at the corner of Hitch's lips, and she looked back at Annie, her annoyance replaced by gratitude. "Thanks, Annie. That means a lot."

They settled into the cozy ambiance of the café, their conversation meandering through memories of their time in the Military Police Brigade and their subsequent adventures within the Walls and in the streets. Annie was always impressed by Hitch's resilience and determination, despite her laid-back demeanour.

"You know, it's going to be a big change," Annie mused, her curiosity getting the better of her. "How are you feeling about all of this?"

Hitch leaned back in her chair, her hand resting gently on her growing baby bump. "Like i said, it's a whirlwind of emotions," she confessed. "I'm excited, nervous, and a little scared. But I know it's going to be an incredible journey."

Annie nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "I went through the same process as you're facing right now."

"Perhaps even through a more difficult one than mine," Hitch admitted. "But knowing that I have friends like you makes it a lot easier."

Annie smiled and nodded at Hitch. Their conversation delved deeper into their lives, their husbands, and their hopes for the future. As their conversation flowed, the topic inevitably turned to the upcoming war with Marley, and Annie couldn't help but express her concerns. "I can't believe it's come to this," she said with a hint of frustration. "Eren's actions will put us all in a difficult position."

Hitch nodded in agreement, her expression serious. "It's a dangerous situation for everyone involved. But we have to trust in our comrades and believe that they're doing, what they think is right."

They both fell silent for a moment, the war with Marley loomed on the horizon, and their lives were about to be upended once again. Annie knew that her family once again will be in danger. Not just her husband, son, Phoenix also her dear father.

"I hope we can find a way to stop this cycle of violence," Annie said softly, her voice tinged with hope.

Hitch placed a reassuring hand on Annie's arm. "I hope so too. But until then, we have to stay strong and be prepared for whatever comes our way."

As the day turned to evening, the two women decided to call the day off. Before parting ways, Annie placed a hand on Hitch's shoulder, a rare display of affection. "Take care of yourself, Hitch, and take care of that little one too."

Hitch grinned, placing her hand over Annie's. "I will, Annie. And you take care of yourself too. And tell your family that I've sent my regards."

The two women bid each other farewell. As they parted ways, their hearts were heavy with the weight of uncertainty, but they found comfort in the knowledge that they weren't alone in their fears and hopes for the future. They knew that they would face the impending war together.

End of chapter 58 part 1