#also erza is his home goodbye

[nocentis]

let her kiss his brand...

He sees her in the way that bees see flowers; the way that leaves see sunshine.

╳┆Honey spilled over the horizon and painted the high tide. Gilded fingers twisted into the amber silks draped upon the throne of cloud, wrapped them up in their glittering palms, around their wrists, and the day's ruler hoisted themselves slowly to claim, leaving blood and syrup in their wake. Their white robes did little to shield their pride; their radiance. There was something to be said about that immeasurable beauty and the karmic toll of viewing it. The price of a look, one held long enough to truly see, was to surrender the gift of future sight. There was something to be said about the periphery. Something about those colors, that warmth, that marvel, and how maybe close enough should be good enough, and why couldn't it be? Something about the cost of love, something about moderation, and maybe something about the comfort of cowardice.

Winter and Spring began their waltz, slowly slinking ‘round and ‘round with fingers interlaced high above their heads, eyes locked in lovers’ snares. Winter, condemned to play the role of callousness; of indiscriminate reaping, and Spring, the tender, the nurturer, tasked with the labor of rebirth. They found their compromise in the snowdrop’s bloom; in its frozen dew. They found it in the chill of the morning and the warmth of the afternoon, in the cool breeze, in the jewel-toned sky and the first blades of grass yet bitten by frost.

It must’ve been love, he thought, for what else could compel the harsh hand of Winter, cold and cruel as it was, not to strike, but to dance? It must've been love, he thought, because when Winter slipped from her grasp, Spring, in her loneliness, would begin to weep. Beautiful things bloomed from her pain, and so her pain was expected, demanded again and again. It must've been love that drove Winter to destroy those sorrow-sewn fields so that Spring would come back to him comfortably, and so just for a little while, they could find peace together.

Today, they were dancing.

╳┆The swell in his chest shined through his broadened shoulders, the length of his neck, the lift of his chin. Still, the habit of treading brazenly, maskless, through stone-laid streets, was one he’d yet to pick up. His formal pardon hadn’t barred the eyes from prying, and it certainly hadn’t muted the whispers. If anything, they’d only grown louder, more opinionated, so he'd yet to find comfort in the breeze's naked palms.

The repetitive swish and clang of his garb and the thud of his armored boots against the cobbles were familiar enough to become mute to the mind, like absorbed by his black-bleeding subconscious. Gone with it, the songbird’s tune, the whistle of the breeze, the sway of the trees. But not today. No, today he heard it—the way the wind howled in harmony with the river’s steady rush, the beat of his own pace, the trill tittering above, the cheerful chatter of life—like it was his first time. In a way, he supposed it was. Every other time he’d walked this path, he’d walked it with closed eyes and wool-stuffed ears, in thrall to the rotten echoes of his own mind. But not today. No. Today, his chin held high, as his spirits did.

He must have looked every bit the manic fool that morning, sliding through the doors of the Fairy Tail guild at the first wink of sunlight, sporting that glued-on grin he'd still yet to unstick, with nothing more to present than a pair of mismatched daffodils and their attached note. Thankfully, Mirajane and her sister, Lisanna, were already in-house preparing for the day ahead, undoubtedly taking advantage of the peace and quiet of the empty hall while they still had the opportunity. Though naturally surprised to see him so elated, they were both pleasant in their greetings and eagerly agreed to deliver his message (though he was nearly certain they were teasing him about his intentions with their fair lady Erza).

His cheer was met equally and enthusiastically. Both sisters were practically teeming with glee by the time he turned to leave, giggling and covering their mouths like they knew something the rest of the world was yet privy to. While he found their giddiness puzzling, he surely welcomed the departure from gloom; from the doom-written reeds he so often dragged in. It was nice, he thought, to share weightless words, to have a laugh, to venture beyond Winter's shadow into the first light of Spring.

From there, he'd practically skipped to his next task. Never in so many years of travel had he received such bemused faces from passersby. He'd actually paused once to check his skin, just to make sure he wasn't actually glowing. Heaven knew how long it'd been since he felt something so carefree as genuine excitement. Long enough that he found it uncontainable. Long enough that it felt like sunshine in his chest, crawling up his throat, bursting through his teeth.

Mrs. Ito was no exception to the day's pleasantries. She'd always been kind in the short time he'd known her. Recently widowed, she decided she had too much house and not enough home, in her own words, so she moved in with her eldest son, his wife, and their children. He'd met with them all one evening for dinner (Mrs. Ito wanted to know to whom she was handing over her home), and even after stories were shared and intentions were laid, he was met gently with understanding smiles, warm hands holding his own, and Mrs. Ito's hushed, "It's time to go home, son."

When he arrived to pick up the keys—his keys to his house—she greeted him fondly, like they'd always known one another. Her son stood in the doorway as he exchanged the gift of home with a box of market candies, his smile slowly melting like he'd finally found the bitter side of sweet. He'd waved goodbye with a promise to visit again soon, but as he turned towards his new tomorrow, he missed the pinch in Mrs. Ito's brow and the tears that followed. He missed the shake of her shoulders as her son ushered her back inside and the red-rimmed eyes that lingered on his back.

His elation carried him through thinning streets and into the countryside. Horse-drawn carriages passed him by with blinders on, kicking up dust and bouncing rocks off their spokes as they went. The folks tending their land paused to spare him a sprinkler's glance. Just around the bend, there sat a humble brick house on a quaint piece of land. Its stone pathway stood out in the sparsely grown, mostly browned lawn, and it drew a path straight towards that painted-red front door. The very same one that he was now standing in front of, staring at.

The key poised betwixt his fingers had been left to steep in his pocketful of sunshine long enough for the heat to transfer, and now it was burning, blistering his skin, and it felt something like rejection. Like the soul of the land had its hands on his shoulders and was shoving him backward. Like he wasn't meant to be here. He was never meant to have this.

But he wasn't ready to give it up just yet.

He tapped the door with a single knuckle, just to see if it'd turn to ash. It held steady, materially, before him, just the same as it ever looked. Its bricks spoke no threat of crumble, its roof showed no sign of collapse, and yet none of it truly felt real. Even as his head bowed and his forehead pressed into that cool crimson, even as he traced the ridges of the keys in his palm, even then, he couldn't bring himself to believe it.

A moment of silent prayer. A deep, grounding breath. Eyes open, back straight, he finally found the will to turn the key. The door slowly creaked open, allowing light to pour in through the front door.

His lingering joy was a sweet wine on the brink of spoil, turned to vinegar in his gut. The morn's candied shell cracked between his teeth and its well-concealed bitterness flooded his tongue like it had been waiting for the opportunity all along. It leaked from the corners of his still-smiling mouth, even as his lips began to twitch; even as heat brimmed his eyes and tears threatened to spill. He stood in the doorway, still, watching the walls of that front room stretch higher and higher as the moment dragged on, like he was waiting for something—something like Karma—to come along and destroy it all, strip it all away; to take from him again, as he'd taken from so many others.

He forced himself to step inside, to turn, to close and lock the door behind himself.

And then it was quiet. Devastatingly so. Gone were the wind, the leaves, the birdsong and the horses' trot. Static rushed in to fill its place, skating rings around his ears, and his periphery began to blur, his chest to ache—oh, he felt ill, and the dam threatened to burst, and his throat tightened until he audibly choked. A hand rose to cup his neck, and another to cover his mouth, stifling his upward bubbling sob as heat rose to cloud his vision. He sunk to his knees as the first tears fell, crushed by the weight of overwhelm, one hand scratching helplessly against hardwood while the other heeled at his bleeding eyes.

How audacious could he be? Already living on borrowed breath, daring to walk the path of the benevolent man. Now he dared to seek normalcy for himself, to smile gleefully while so many still woke in a cold sweat, in terror, at the sight of him, and others would never wake at all. A sick joke. He hardly deserved a proper burial, much less a place to lay his head, and yet he wanted it still.

He turned and sat with his back pressed against the front door, and he tried to find comfort in the nothing. He tried to find comfort in the emptiness, the darkness, the hollow and desolate, but the shadows had autonomous hands. Those mangled fingers were rotten down to blackened bone and had mouths where their nails should've been, and they'd been picking at the threads of his mind's drawn curtain, picking, pulling, unspooling, until they made their hole big enough to climb through. When they finally reached him, they were dripping ink like blood, wrapped up in memories' silk that they used to bind him where he was.

How long had it been? He was a child when he'd last called a house like this his home, before the raid. If only his mother and father could see him now, what would they say? Would they smile? Would they cry? Would they be proud of their son, even to this day, with all years considered, and would they love him still? Would they hand their heads in shame, or would they lift their chins in disgust? He never got the chance to know them well enough to answer those questions with any certainty.

His head thumped against the wall, tears trailing unbidden as he stared through the ceiling. His breath shook as he exhaled, voice straining when he pleaded directly to God, "Please," his face curled inward and he nearly choked, "It's more than I deserve, but please, may I have this?"

But it wasn't God who'd condemned him. It wasn't God who'd damned his soul to roam, so God need not answer.

The silence was a swarm that eventually overtook the sounds of his wet misery. The numbness accompanying that insidious peace was a welcome shift. It gathered over his shoulders and draped from him, robe-like, as he finally rose from the floor, intent on washing his face.

A few short steps brought him to the bathroom. He blindly palmed at the wall until he found the switch. Light sprung from the top down, bathing the back of his hand as he turned on the sink. He let it run over his fingers until warm and watched years-old blood run off and stain the porcelain. The water he gathered in his palms was soon spilled over the flesh of his face and beyond his sleeves.

While the salt may have washed clean, the evidence of his deluge clung to the skin beneath his eyes and around his nose in Pollock pink. That much became obvious the very second he met his own glassy stare, though its juxtaposition to the hot iron's bite made its consequence seem all the more fleeting. The tips of his fingers idled against his still-dripping skin, at first tracing the risen path, then covering it. He tried to imagine what he might've looked like without it. Would he look more youthful? Would he look kind when he smiled? Would children be less afraid when he waved to them?

He supposed it didn't matter. The choice was never his to have. That glowing sunset crest lived inside of his eyelids, lurking there, daring him to blink. Within each lapse, he saw the devil's eyes. He saw split-curl smiles and broken teeth outlined in stolen blood. He heard the devil's laugh, shrill and gleeful and giddy, and felt its dank breath against his neck, and he felt its hands curling around his ankles, his wrists, his arms and legs, puncturing his skin with nails of obsidian glass, and he felt it climb onto his chest, crack his ribs, and he felt his face begin to sweat, even though he was so, so cold.

It was so, so cold. White cold. And he was awake. Wide-eyed, shocked mute. His skin shrieked as its moisture fled, and it began to peel away, to bubble and blister and burn—God, it burned, and the smell—

Knock-knock, knock!

His visitor's early arrival nearly sent him out of his skin. He quickly turned the water off and killed the light, and he hoped that his sorrows stayed in the drain depths where they belonged.

The door swung inward, and she was there, waiting patiently, graciously, for him like she always had. His breath turned to dust in his lungs.

In her hands, those inverted daffodils dressed in yellow and white, not a petal out of place. Gold spilled over her crown, revealing that halo he'd always known was there. The breeze tossed her scarlet flames about semblant of Venus, and rosey lips sat in their gentle curve, smiling softly at him, yet before they could split to spill a greeting, he'd already begun to pull her towards him. As he wrapped himself around her, his eyes began to burn again, and the second he felt her hand at his back, returning his embrace, he broke, and the tears spilled forth once more. His head fell to rest against her armored shoulder, and through the rain, he began to laugh.

She pulled away to view him at arms' length, mouth slightly parted as though a question had come to peer through her teeth. He wiped at his face with tremors in his hands, chuckling softly when Erza finally shoved out, "Tears?"

"It's silly, really," he holds up the keys, "I'm overwhelmed."

It didn't take her long to put it together.

Warmth graced his jaw with the weight of a whisper, so faint he'd thought surely that he'd imagined it. That is, until it struck again, soft and sweet against his cheek, beneath his eye, his forehead. His eyes blinked open as she sunk back to her heels, bashfully peering up at him through the veil of her lashes; waiting for him to do something, anything.

The raucous buzzing faded into a melodic hum like the swarm had finally found its queen.

His blood sang as it rushed red-hot through his shoulders, crawled up his neck, and began burning its way through the skin of his face. The ear-popping clarity of his thought-storm's sudden abandon left him staring mindlessly with eyes much too wide and jaw much too lax, narrowly remembering to breathe, until her shy expression began to melt into something more reminiscent of unease, like she was preparing to flee.

Perhaps a touch too quickly, he grabbed her hand, careful to keep his grip loose enough that she could pull away if she wanted. Slowly, surely, his opposite hand reached to tuck her hair behind her ear, and his palm cupped her cheek in a silent plea not to retreat from him. A silent plea to stay here, right here, in this moment, in his grasp, just a little while longer.

And she did. She stayed. She smiled gently, warmly. Her head fell to rest against his chest and she leaned into his sway. There, in the silence, they found their rhythm. They began to dance.

"Welcome home, Jellal." -------------------------------------------------------------------------- @mamorigami

[saltyninetails]

My main Fairy tail oc

Name: Elizabeth Halfmoon.

Nicknames: Liz, Lizzie, Beth, Mrs Halfmoon. 

Aliases: The Violet witch. (Given by herself) 

Age: 21

Species: Human. 

Gender: Female

Sexuality: Bisexual

Hair color: blonde (Left side) Black (Right side)

Eye color: Black (Left eye) Blue (right eye)

Guild: Fairy Tail

Guild mark location: left shoulder. 

Personality: Elizabeth is a headstrong woman who is known for her high intelligence and sassy nature. Elizabeth often has a smirk on her face, especially in battle and is very confident in her abilities. Elizabeth has a knack for recklessness and danger, which sparks her interest in Fairy Tail to begin with. Elizabeth is known for being very sarcastic to the point that some people don’t know when she’s being sarcastic or not. Elizabeth is known to be a jokester and often plays pranks on her guild mates. (especially Lucy) Elizabeth can get annoyed quite easily (especially when it comes to her brother figure Cyril) but surprisingly is not often annoyed by Natsu. Elizabeth is very independent and wants to keep that reputation. Due to that, she can be hesitant to ask for help. Elizabeth can be rude at times without knowing, but her heart is in the right place. She cares for each of her guild mates with all her heart and would protect her friends with her life. Elizabeth is known to have violent tendencies when it comes to enemies and sometimes goes at them with the intent to kill. Due to growing up in regal environments, Elizabeth is classy and a bit vain.

Family: Ann Halfmoon (Mother, Deceased) Ejiro Halfmoon (Father, doesn’t have the best relationship with) Aki Kyojin (brother figure) Mizumi Himiko (sister figure) Cyril Moonstone (brother figure) 

Best friends: Gloria Karmel(Best Friend), Ame Heartfilia, Ivory Lemons Gray Fullbuster, Erza Scarlet, the Strauss siblings, Levy McGarden, Gajeel Redfox, Wendy Marvel

Friends: Scain Lemons, Reynold Lemons, Juvia Lockser, Jellal Fernandes, Ultear Milkovich, Max Arlos, Romeo Conbolt, Bisca Mulan, Loke, Sting Euclife, Rogue Cheney, Lyon Vastia, Lucy Heartfilia

Rivals: Lucy Heartfilia (friendly rivalry) Nova Eden, Priscilla Elvira (Love rival) 

Love interest: Natsu Dragneel

Magic: Plasma-Make

Description of magic: Elizabeth’s Magic allows her to spawn and manipulate plasma and use it to create objects. Her magic is extremely powerful, but comes with a price. The user is not completely immune to the temperature of plasma and often will get burned by their magic if they use it too frequently. Due to this, Elizabeth also partakes in potion making in order to be useful without harming her body too much. 

BackStory: Elizabeth grew up in a wealthy household with her mother and father deep in the woods away from civilization. When Elizabeth was five, her father left and her mother was stuck trying to provide for the family. When Elizabeth was eight, a dark guild invaded their home, stole all their riches, and killed Elizabeth’s mother right before her eyes. Terrified, Elizabeth ran into the woods where she met a passing hiker named Eliot. Eliot took pity on the poor girl and took her in. He brought her to his guild where he taught her his magic, and taught her all about the world. Elizabeth lived in Eliot’s guild until she was ten, when she found the dark truth about the ones who were taking care of her. She wandered into a room that the guild master forbade her from going into, and found a room full of Riches. Her riches. This is when Elizabeth realized that this is the very guild that killed her mother. Panicking, Elizabeth ran, trying to find her way out of the guild. When Eliot found her and revealed he never wanted to join the guild in the first place but was forced to since his father was the guild master. He didn’t agree with anything the guild did. He led her out of the guild and gave her a map of fiore. She asked him to come with her, but he refused, saying that they'll find her easier if he went with her. They hugged and said their goodbyes. Elizabeth found her way to a nearby village, she was starving. So, she took an apple from a stand, completely forgetting that she didn’t bring money. The man that ran the stand chased her down before she ran into three children, one around her age. They saw the apple in her hand and said that she needs to be more stealthy when stealing. They introduced themselves as Aki, Mizumi, and Cyril, took her under their wing and taught her how to be a thief. The four of them dubbed themselves team kitsune, they were known as the Robin Hood’s of the village, stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. However, Elizabeth has a set goal in mind. She wants to steal enough riches to pay up for what her mother lost. It’s been like this for nine years before Fairy Tail came. Four Fairy Tail members all had to take down team Kitsune as a job. One of them was Natsu Dragneel. He took on Elizabeth, not knowing she’s about as powerful as he is. They fought on and off again for what seemed like days before Natsu saw Elizabeth feeding poor orphans in the streets. Natsu was stunned before realizing she wasn’t such a bad guy. He confronted Elizabeth, and after a lot of convincing, she revealed her past to him. Natsu did the same, revealing his past to her. The two developed a bond and Natsu managed to convince her and the rest of team Kitsune to join Fairy Tail. Ever since then, Elizabeth has been going on adventures with Natsu, Lucy, Gray, Erza and the rest of Fairy Tail.

[kalinawtokilig]

S/O who sleeps (too much) in the oddest of places

Ohh, being tired 24/7. I feel ya,,

((My formats will be a bit a different as I’m experimenting which feels and looks best, so bear with me))

- Y a s . My five favorite characters of haikyuu. yes. I agree. -

----------------

Pair(s): Iwaizumi Hajime x Reader, Suna Rintaro x Reader, Tendou Satori x Reader, Yachi Hitoka x Reader & Sugawara Koushi x Reader

Summary: 

You are the type of person to either have pulled so many all nighters that fatigue has finally caught up to you and the backlash is very intense, or you are such a sleepy person you’ll take a nap anywhere, anytime. It had cause inconvenience sometimes, such as having to keep the storage closet in school locked to prevent you from sleeping and being locked in, or skipping some classes to doze off. But thankfully your partner was able to help and spot you in time before anything off happens. 

Iwaizumi Hajime x Reader 

((Ughhh, I love and pimp,,, I canNOT express that enough))

Iwaizumi knows his S/O can be such a sleepy babe

He wants you to be careful where you decide to rest

One time he wondered where you were, as he hasn’t found you in your class nor has his friends saw you in lunch 

He usually visits you to check up on you, to see if you’re okay, if you got enough sleep, or if you ate

He!! Is!! Concerned!! for !! your wellbeing!! 

With school ending and no practice today, Iwaizumi was eager to see you and walk you home, maybe even order takeout while watching a movie or something. When he said goodbye to his friends, he grabbed his scarf and jacket, heading to your classroom.

“Ah, Iwaizumi-kun.” One of your friends say, seeing him walk through the door and scanning the classroom. “If you’re looking for (Y/N), we haven’t seen them in a while. Last time we did it was the first few classes, then they left.”

Nodding in thanks, Iwaizumi decides to keep texting you, until you answer. But you didn’t. Which meant you kept your phone at do not disturb again OR your phone died. Again. You probably used it to listen to the newest podcast and went straight to school without sleeping a wink.Furrowing his brow, he grunted in frustration. “Where can they be?” 

He thought for a moment. 

‘Not in the storage closet, the janitor now locks it cause they kept finding (Y/N) in it. In the locker room? No, I got a text from one (Y/N)’s friends that they didn’t go to P.E.’

Then it clicked.

“(Y/N) better not be up there, it’s fucking freezing-” 

Speed walking down through the hallways and up the stairs until he reached the rooftop, he slammed open the door and he looked around, circling the entrance, he sighed with relief. 

You were napping against the back of the entrance building, a fluffy blanket and his hoodie that you were wearing to keep yourself extra warm. Not to mention you also layered his hoodie with his VBC jacket. You were lying in fetus position, your bag serving as a pillow as you snored softly, blanket pulled up to your nose. 

You look so precious. 

‘Snap out of it, Hajime! They could’ve gotten sick! They can’t sleep here any longer!’ 

Crouching down, he nudges your temple with the curl of his index finger. He’s not surprised that your skin was cold, the tint of pink on your cheeks and nose tell him how cold your face was. 

“Baby, wake up.” He speaks quietly, still rubbing the crook of his finger against your temple. 

Humming as your eyes flutter open, you sneezed, sniffing as you smiled in a daze to your lovely boyfriend. “Hallo, Hajime. What’re you doing up here?” 

He pouted a bit, now his face is tinted red. “Idiot, I was looking for you. You haven’t been answering your phone, did your phone die again?” 

You snuggled deeper into his jacket, looking so soft and cozy. Your boyfriend is practically dying inside from how cute you are. “Mm. I think so? M’not sure.” 

“C’mon, let’s go home. You slept until school was over, dumbie.” He brought his hand close to you, sneaking out from the blanket, your warm hand grab his cold one, and he pulled you up, picking up your bag and then wrapping the fluffy blanket around your body. 

“When we get to your place can we sleep? You’re so warm, Hajime.” You shift closer to him, snuggling against the crook of his neck.

He chuckled, ruffling your hair despite your annoyed, tired, protests. “Of course we can bubs. But you got to do your homework.” 

You hummed again, softly this time. “I did it already. I can give you the answers if it means you’ll sleep with me.” 

Iwaizumi sputtered, “W-Watch what you’re saying, dumbass! You can’t just say that to anyone!” 

Hugging him, the fluffy blanket still covering you and engulfing him, you smiled slyly, “That’s why I’m saying it to you, babes.” 

“Idiot, l-let’s go.”

“Eager, aren’t ya?” 

“...Shut up.” 

((Yes. Give me all of Iwaizumi Hajime. Yes. I agree.))

Suna Rintaro x Reader

((Look at him.  LOOK AT HIM. Icant---)) 

Suna probably either does get enough sleep or he doesn’t, there’s no inbetween

Sometimes he does, cause he’s so tired from practice and collecting blackmail from the Miya twins fight

and there are times he doesn’t that you have to pick him up from class cause not even the loudest Miya twin can wake him up

That’s cause Suna trained himself to tune out Atsumu HA

But in reality, I feel like Suna is a light sleeper and if you were to wake him up, he’ll be like, “Wassup, babe?” In the husky ,,, tone,, aARYUFVAOR

He does usually need to find you, cause he does get concerned where you sleep

During gym class, you decided to fall asleep underneath the bleachers. You weren’t dead tired, but you had a big exam for three of your classes. Three tests take up a lot of mind power and studying consumes days and nights of good sleep.  Thankfully, Suna had let you wear his VBC jacket today, cause he knows how cold it can be in the gymnasium. 

By the time gym class ended, lunch rolled around and Suna had texted you that he was coming over to your homeroom so he can pick you up and eat with him and the twins. 

Arriving at your classroom, he looks around and sees that you weren’t there. Asking your seat mates, they reply to him that they haven't seen you since gym class. Blinking at them, he nodded and left. Pulling out his phone, he checked your snapchat and you posted nothing. Swiping up, he sees that you’re still in school, but it doesn’t exactly say where, only that you’re in the Eastside. 

Gym. 

You’re still in the gymnasium. 

He knew that you were busy studying for the three tests that he came to the conclusion that you didn’t get enough sleep, which meant you’re sleeping somewhere in the gym.

Going to your locker cubby, he opened it to see that you haven’t even brought lunch with you. Except two juiceboxes. Taking them out, he headed back to his class and picked up his own bento. 

“Where ya goin’ Suna? Aren’t ya s’ppose to eat with (Y/N)?” Osamu asked. 

“Hm. I will. Gotta pick’em up.” He replied. 

“Good luck findin’ them then.”

“Thanks, ‘Samu.” 

Suna casually walked to the gymnasium, taking long stride to get there at a shorter time. (Curse them... and their tallness))  Entering, he decided to call you. Then he heard the small ringtone you set up for him, the ‘bunny-senpai theme’ something like that. Following the sound of it, he stood in front of the bleachers in confusion. The ringtone was coming from there but you weren’t on the bleachers. Walking to the side, he heard the ringing become louder. Peeking from behind, he shone his phone light and saw a figure sitting against the wall. 

Snorting, he entered into the small cave and sat next to you, seeing as you were about to fall forward, he debated on either recording you fall flat on your face, probably groan and go back to sleep, or, he cannot do that. 

Being the good boyfriend he is, he placed his hand on your forehead, pulling it gently towards him, having you lean against his shoulder. He decided to take a photo, only for him and your eyes, adding it to his album of you two together. The album was called ‘Finding (Y/N)’, which was dedicated to you being found in the oddest parts of school and Suna finding you. You were mainly asleep in most of them, since that’s why he named it after you because of the places you sleep in or on. 

Last time he found you sleeping on one of the library tables, far back where all the bookshelves hide that table and other forgotten books. 

Throwing up a peace sign, a certain angle showing both him and you, he captioned it, ‘Underneath the bleachers :P’ 

Somehow the flash of the screen camera made you stir, waking up, you lazily blinked. 

Suna turned to you, kissing the top of your head. “Hey, Sleeping Beauty. Nice nap?” 

Sighing, you nuzzled against his shoulder. “S’cold, Rin.” You muttered. Opening his bento, he picked up some meat and popped it into his mouth, talking with his mouth full he replied, “S’cause you’re wearing shorts, babe.” He draped his hand over your exposed legs, patting them softly and then pulling it onto his own. “Where’s your sweats?” 

“Mn, I’unno. Must’ve put’em in the laundry. Or something.” You said, going back to sleep until you sniffed your boyfriend’s lunch. Tired eyes shooting up, you rub your head against Suna. “Can I have please?” 

Chewing rice, Suna picked up a piece of spice pork and offered it to you. 

Taking a bite, you mewled at how good it tastes. 

“Nice hiding place, by the way.” 

“Thanks, bubba.” 

((Omg,,,, I fuckin LOVE HIMMMM))

Tendou Satori x Reader

(AUYROVARFOYVARFOY YES,,,, I SIMP AND PIMP ))

OHHH what an energetic boi *cue puppy eyes uwu*

When he sees you napping he finds it sooo cute!!!

He can’t help but coo and call you the cutest nicknames for you to wake up too

“Peach” - “Jellal to my Erza” - “Beloved” - “Sweetcheeks” etc etc YUGFOEUYFGOUYEFV I LOVE TENDOU!!!!!

Shiratorizawa is a big school 

He usually wants you to go straight to your dorm or his dorm so you can nap, but he does want you to text him so he can see you and plop down next to you so you can nap together <3

If he can’t nap, he’ll read manga next to you be enveloped by your body warmth

When you forget to text him AND you’re not in either dorm, you know he’s gonna f i n d  y o u

out of love, ofc <3

At the end of practice, Tendou headed to his dorm, ready to shower and change into comfier sweats. Opening the door and dropping his bag to the side, he noticed there wasn’t a familiar lump on his bed. Shrugging, he took a quick shower and changed into warmer clothing. Drying his hair with a towel, he  sat down on his bed and checked his phone. 

“Ara, (Y/N) isn’t in their dorm. Good thing their roomie is there. Time to find my sunshine~!” Standing up, he pocketed his phone and closed his door. He could use the snapchat app, but he always like a challenge. Checking your reoccurring and unusual sleeping spots, he had found that you weren’t there at any of them. 

Humming, he had overheard from your classmates as he passed the hallways that they haven’t seen you after lunch. Like the good partner he is, he remembers your schedule. Since you had some of the same breaks, he made sure to drop by and wake you up so you can eat. He does find it worrisome that you like to sleep a lot that you forget to eat sometimes, but he doesn’t mind if that means he gets to see you more often! And talking about remembering schedules, he would sometimes pull you out of class so both of you can go into one of your hiding spots and catch up on whatever you wanted to talk about. 

Tendou loves hearing about your dreams. You tell him you have the weirdest and coolest anime-esque dreams when you’re at a specific place in school, saying it ‘Awakens your dream eye’. He indulges on it, saying that maybe one of your dreams can become a really cool manga idea, so he decided to help you keep your dreams consistent, doing research as in keeping a dream journal to continue the awesome dream you had, most of the time, you have your boyfriend on edge with how detailed your dreams can be. 

“My angel, lil’puppy, light of my life, where can you be?” He sang out at the hallways, passing by students who stayed a bit late to continue their studies or help around the school by cleaning. 

Stopping for a moment he recalled what your friend said; 

“(Y/N) probably dozed off again. I haven’t seen them since lunch and before that, we had lab.” 

Humming a made-up tune, he made his way to the lab reserved for the third-years, and as he slid open the door, he turned on the light and looked around. From checking to the storage closet and underneath the student’s desks he pouted a bit. 

A light bulb went off in his redhead. 

Going to the teacher’s desk and pulling away the swiveled chair, he bent down and smiled. 

“Found you, (Y/N)-ba~by!” 

You were sleeping soundly, your knees pulled up to your chest and Tendou’s VBC jacket being worn as it made you look so much more endearing. 

“Wake up, you hibernating bear. Gotta get up before someone finds us.” He crawled close to you and he cupped his hand on your soft cheek, turning to pinch it. Eliciting a whine, you scrunched your nose and glared with your eyes closed. 

“Open your eyes and time to rise! Satori is here to bring you back to your kingdom!” He teased, seeing that you started to stir, but your eyes are still closed. You held out your grabby hands and he pulled you into his arms. 

“Must’ve been a nice dream to have you skip all of your afternoon classes and forget to text me. Why sleep here?” He asks as he smoothed out your hair, you caught his hand and nuzzle your face into his large palm, his heart doing everlasting flips as how adorable you are. 

“Mm, kinda...superhero dream. S’a redhead antihero. Kinda lo’like you, Satori. He’s so cool, tryin’ ta change the system.” You replied a bit slurred, your eyelids opening half-way to stare lovingly at him. 

With his lip wobbling and eyes smiling, he lightly rubbed his nose against yours, “Always the smooth talker, aren’t ya, love?” 

(((I am dying. IWANT HIM IWANTAHIMMMMMM)))

Yachi Hitoka x Reader

((SYUFOYVFYYOYV YES I AGREE I LOVE HER I WANNNT HERR IM A GREEDY PERSON OKAY OMG LET ME SIMP IN PEACE JEEZZ)

The pretty girl worries to death

Yachi knows that you don’t sleep at night cause you’re too busy gaming

Last time she slept over at your place, she tried her best to stay up for you but she passed out, when she woke up, YOU WERE STILL AWAKE

Finds ways for you to sleep early so she won’t have to find you sleeping in the storage closet beside the folded chairs

Conflicted on not wanting to wake you up or waking you up so you won’t get in trouble

You look so peaceful when you’re sleeping! She really dislike waking you up :(

As practice rolled around, Shimizu-senpai asked Yachi to pick up some more chairs from the storage closet. As she walked there and opened the closet, she heard soft snoring. 

She should know that it was you, but she was scared to move anything cause she doesn’t know exactly where you are sleeping on. Shuffling slowly, she peaked over some of the corners, reaching the blue mats, she saw the tuft of your hair at the opposite end. Climbing onto the mat, she crawled and looked down, seeing that you were sleeping in a cramped space. 

‘How can (Y/N) be possibly comfortable?’ 

Your head was leaning against the stacked mats, knees pulled to your chest and arms crossed on your knees. Just as Yachi was about to reach and fix your hair, she squealed when you caught her wrist, pulling it down as her face was closely met with your tired eyes glaring at the person who tried to wake you up. Softening your stare, you smiled kindly, loosening the grip on Yachi’s wrist and kissing it from holding it a bit tight. 

You were satisfied with the new color plastered on her face, a stuttering mess. 

“(Y/N)! W-What’re you doing s-sleeping here?! Don’t you know how cramped it is? And dusty?” She asked, avoiding your gaze. 

Humming, you rubbed the pad of your thumb against her soft wrist, “M’sitting on a spare towel. What’re you doing here?” 

“I had to get chairs for practice.” 

Groaning, with your other hand, you rubbed your temple. “I missed my last two classes. Damn.” 

Yachi pouted cutely, “(Y/N), did you sleep at all?” 

“I took a power nap. For five hours. Heh, don’t act so mad, buttercup. At least I got to wake up to you.” You flirted, snickering at how redder she became. 

“D-Don’t do that! I’m trying to be mad at you! You know I worry about your health. An average teenager should try to at least sleep seven or eight hours!” 

Sighing, you smiled at her with fondness, “I’m nocturnal, Hitoka. I sleep as much as possible when it’s the daytime. And I know for a fact that a student like you doesn’t sleep as much considering all the advanced class work can be a pain in the ass. Wasn’t it two nights ago you face timed me at two in the morning cause you were ready to set your homework on fire?” Smirking as you observed her sputtering for an explanation, you raised your hand and held the back of her head. 

“I’ll fix my sleep schedule if you give me daily kisses, how about that? Would you accept my offer, princess?” Your lips ghosted her, you can practically feel how warm her face is. 

Staring at her, she scrunched her brows and pursed her lips. “I don’t mind that proposal.” Yachi whispered. 

Grinning, you straightened your back as Yachi willingly leaned down to tilt to the right and returned the kiss. Pulling away, you stuck out your tongue between your teeth with a successful smile. 

“Since you’re awake, can you help me bring some chairs to the gym?” 

((I’m dying. I’m dying. IM DYING))

Sugawara Koushi x Reader

((This man,,, goddamn,,, angels voice DEVILS WORDS))

Sugawara knows you love to sleep too much 

He wonders if you hibernate in the winter

Makes jokes about you being bear,,, or a cat 

Would sometimes invite you to his house or go over to your place so he can make sure you eat and remind you to do your homework 

Babe loves to nap with you after practice!!

Snuggling into all the pillows and blankets you hoard 

“I am in the cave of the hibernating honey bear”

“Koushi, go to sleep”

Sugawara knows how sleepy you are, so he doesn’t mind coming to your place and greeting you with kisses for you to wake up to. Even though practice ended late and Coach Ukai was pushing them a bit harder, Sugawara became a bit energized after showering and walking a bit faster to get to your place. After your first-year together, you decided to copy your house key and give it to him. Arriving to your place, he opened the door and knocked off his shoes, greeting your parent as they told him you were sleeping, as usual. 

“I was lazy to cook, Sugawara-kun. So, I ordered you guys pizza and burgers. Knowing (Y/N), I know they would complain to me if I haven’t bought them fries either. It’s in the living room, so try to wake up that tired kid o’mine to eat. Went straight to sleep when they came home.” Your parent sighed, shaking their head at your behavior. 

Sugawara chuckled. “I’ll bring them down, don’t you worry!”

“I’m positive you will. If it’s you and food, (Y/N) won’t mind at all.” 

The teen went up the stairs and opened your door, switching the lights on as his eyes landed to the barricade of blankets and pillows that shifted a bit. Walking closer, he saw the small exposure of your facial features. Tearing away the blankets, he smiled as he leaned in to pepper your face with soft kisses. The apples of your cheeks, forehead, temples, nose, and lastly, your own lips. 

Stirring, you slowly blinked. 

“Good evening, Sugar. Did you sleep well?” 

You grunted. 

“Come downstairs, there’s food!” 

Two hands shot out from the blankets as you held onto your boyfriend’s shoulders, pulling him down as he yelped. 

“Koushi, you can’t use food against me. I was sleeping.” You said in a tired voice. 

He turned to his side to look at you, lifting his finger and tracing your face, cheeks, nose, arch of your nose, and your lips. You took his hand and intertwined his fingers with yours. With half-lidded eyes, you watched underneath your lashes the pink hue on his face, even the mole near his eye was highlighted. 

“You have to get up, (Y/N).”  “Why.”

“So we can eat and watch anime!”

“Hmm.” You brought the hand you were holding close to your chest, “But I wanna stay here and hold you.” 

Sugawara can be speechless at how flirtatious and bold you can be, even if it was unintentional. But he knows you, and he knows how to play this game. 

Shuffling close, you can feel his body heat, “If you wake up, I can give you some of the answers to the homework. And hand feed you fries.” 

Eyes fully awakened, you smiled cheekily, “You know me so well, Sugarplum.” 

[ignitedbynatsu]

Flour Bomb

A/N: Do I post at the most ungodly hours for my readers in the US? Probably. Do I screw myself by doing so? Yeah, I guess... BUt don’t care 🤷I have this weird obsession when I’m done writing something that I have to get it out as soon as possible 👀 That being said, here is the Natsu x children shenanigans @pro-crastinator14 requested! Hope you like it ❤️

Warnings: swearing

Genre: crack, fluff

🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

"Please don't leave us with those three" Gray pleaded as you bid your goodbye to the guild.

"I'm sorry, but I have to go," you told the ice mage as you gave Mira-Jane a hug.

"Then take them with you" he huffed. He was absolutely not looking forward to spending the day with those three troublemakers, especially with you gone.

"I can't, it's some private stuff with the family about our father's will" you explained before giving him a reassuring smile "You'll be fine, I'll be back by tonight.

"Nalu! Kenji! Promise me you'll behave and don't make it too hard on your dad" you crouched down to their level, so you could look them in the eyes and show then you were serious.

"We promise mommy!" Your eldest promised as she placed her hand over her heart, her younger brother soon mimicking her.

"Natsu, the same goes for you" you eyed your husband as you stood straight again. He was in an intense staring contest with Gray but turned to you as soon as he heard his name fall from your lips.

"When do I ever not behave?" He smiled sheepishly. Happy piped up "how about never?"

Natsu shot him a glare before giving you a loving smile "We'll be fine. Now go, you don't want to be late, do you?"

You pressed your lips against his, lingering a little longer than you'd normally do, only breaking apart when you felt your children hug your legs. "Bye, mommy!"

And with that you were gone, leaving the soon-to-be chaos-filled guild behind you for the day.

"Alright so, you'll go to uncle Gray and tell him something's in your water bottle and when he bends down, you squeeze the bottle, spraying him with water" this is how nearly the whole day had passed. Natsu and his children prank everyone in the guild. From putting fake spiders around the bar to scare Mira-Jane to colouring Levy's glasses, resulting in her having dark circles around her eyes. No one was safe.

"Natsu, that's enough!" A covered in strawberry cake Erza growled as she towered over the fire dragon slayer. They had hidden a small balloon in her cake so when she went to grab a bite with her fork, the small dessert went flying everywhere.

Everyone in the guild had a matching expression, showing how fed up everyone was with the pranks. "Fine, fine we'll stop, right kids?"

"Yep! Here you go daddy" Kenji handed him a mug with what Natsu presumed was beer, so he took a swing. It didn't take long before he spits the beverage out, tasting soap instead of the bitterness of the golden liquid.

The two children ran away laughing "Oh no, what have I started"

Everyone was on high alert for the two little monsters that were your children "this is your fault" Gajeel growled as everyone was looking for them.

"We were just having a little fun, how was I supposed to know they wouldn't know when to stop?" Natsu tried to defend himself.

"They're your kids, are you really that surprised they don't have an off button?" Lisanna deadpanned.

Natsu grumbled, knowing she was right and that he shouldn't have let it go this far "has anyone found them?"

Everyone gathered in the middle with no success, unbeknownst to them, walking right into the two children's biggest prank yet "flour bomb!"

How the two managed to get that much flower up there without anyone noticing was an absolute mystery, but as the words fell from the two young mages mouths, an avalanche of white powder flew down, covering the whole guild and their mages in the process.

"Nalu! Kenji!" Natsu yelled at his children, but the two had already run from the scene, the only thing that could be heard was their laughter.

"Shit! We have to clean this up before (Y/N) comes back" the fire mage cursed as realization dawned upon him.

"We?" Gray laughed "Oh, good luck buddy"

Gray patted his shoulder as he and the others piled out of the guild "Wait! Where are you going?"

"To get cleaned up and go to another bar!" Cana called over her shoulder "have fun with your monsters"

A couple more profanities left Natsu's lips as he peered to the guild, hoping to catch even a glimpse of his children.

"There are footsteps here" Happy announced who had flown up to where they had last seen the two.

"Happy you're a genius!" Once Natsu had climbed up the two followed the trail that led them to a small crawl space underneath the roof.

The dragon slayer poked his head in and there indeed where the two troublemakers "Nalu. Kenji. That's enough. Get your asses down"

The two shared a glance, they had never seen their father this serious before. They obeyed his order and quietly made it back downstairs.

"We're sorry, daddy, we didn't mean to make everyone mad" both their head hung low in shame as they prepared themselves to get yelled at.

Natsu sighed, knowing that he was partly to blame in all of this "it's not all your fault, I should've put my foot down sooner."

"So you're not upset with us?" Nalu lifted her head as she looked at her father with glossy eyes.

"I wouldn't say that, but I think cleaning this mess is punishment enough, so I won't yell at you" Natsu patted his daughter's head.

So the four got to work, trying their best to get rid of all the flour, but it was literally everywhere. Halfway through, the two children had fallen asleep, leaving Natsu and Happy to get rid of the rest.

"What happened here" you gasped as you took notice of the mess in front of you. Both your children were covered in flour and knocked out on a table, while Natsu and Happy, who were also covered in flour, were sweeping the floor.

"(Y/N)! You're back early!" Natsu's eyes nearly fell out of their sockets when he heard your voice. Your eyes narrowed at him as you awaited an explanation.

He sighed as he placed the broom against a table and glanced at Nalu and Kenji "A prank that got a little out of hand, but" he rushed to say as you pinched the bridge of your nose in annoyance "before you yell at us, we all knew we were in the wrong and learned from our mistakes. We even decided to clean up as punishment for our behaviour"

Your eyes cast upon your children, still not saying a word so Natsu decided to continue with his apology "we're really sorry, I'm really sorry. I know you put trust in us, and we broke it"

"I'm never leaving you three alone again" you sighed "but it's fine, you saw that you were in the wrong and took responsibility. Let's finish cleaning up and get them home, shall we?"

By the time you were done, the moon was high in the night sky. "You sure you're not mad at me?"

Natsu's voice was hushed as he carried a sleeping Nalu in his arms while you carried Kenji. "No, you'll always be a troublemaker, but you're my troublemaker and I wouldn't have it any other way"

[rosetheshapeshifter]

Hey hope you have a great day today! Can I request relationship about natsu with fem s/o pls? Thank you

Natsu x fem! Reader headcanons

I’m so sorry this took me so long to get to. God like 2 months. I really have no excuse. But I want to thank @datnanbakahype for getting to to actually sit down and write today. Hope you enjoy!

-You better be prepared for one hell of a ride with this boy

-Natsu is......special. That’s why he’s called ‘Fairy Tail’s problem child’

-Kudos to you if you’re willing to put up with him for a while.

-That being said, he’s not the worst boyfriend in the world.

-He’s really caring. Like he’d go to all sorts of lengths to make you happy (Like, oh I don’t know. Dig up a tree you wanted to see but got too sick to see it in person).

-If you’re a mage, he’d drag you all over the country on jobs along with Happy.

-It’s also a little stressful. We all know that Natsu is the ultimate chaotic dumbass. He’s going to fight everyone head on without thinking.

-If you don’t die during the job due to the actual bad guys, it’s gonna be of cardiac arrest.

-But you two are actually a really good duo. Once Natsu uses what little brain cells he has.

-Speaking of brain cells, you definitely hold the brain cell in this relationship

-But if you aren’t a mage, either you work at the guild with Mira or you work at a restaurant.

-He can’t cook for shit, so you’ll have to do the cooking.

-Every time Natsu starts guild fights with Gray, he makes sure you’re looking while he beats him up (While Erza beats them both up would be the more accurate) But he’s still trying to impress you.

-Natsu’s clingy as hell. Like, we’ve all seen that Lucy does not get a break from him in canon. But it’s really likely that wherever you are, Natsu is really close by (even if you don’t know it sometimes)

-He doesn’t really mind what you’re doing. Just as long as he’s near you, he’s a calm little puppy. Well, not calm, but still a little puppy.

-Cuddles with him are one of your favorite things. He’s a whole portable heater! And during winter, you’d cling to his side. (At least I would). Which is exactly why his new favorite season is winter, because he gets cuddles all season long.

-Natsu doesn’t really care about PDA that much? I guess not when it comes to hugs and tiny smooches.

-You’ll be talking to Mira at the bar and he’ll come behind you and all of a sudden you have him wrap his arms around you tightly.

-This boy lowkey wants all of your attention.

-Natsu can go from being the cutest salamander to being a little snake in an instant.

-You’ve seen how he chucked Lucy into the water at the pool. He does that to you all the time. Or whenever you go to a lake, or the beach, or literally anywhere with big bodies of water. Don’t fall for the hugs.

-And he eats your food. All of it, say goodbye to your snacks. He always promises to make it up to you at some point.

-He also doesn’t bathe. (That’s the turn off for me. That’s why I could never date him)

-Please fix that (even if him not bathing saved everyone from Ichiya).

-A simple weekend could turn into an at home spa weekend if you can bribe him with cuddles and kisses. And even with some help from Happy. The three of you could spend the weekend taking care of yourselves.

-Although, you could probably coax him into bathing if you go with him.

-And he’s broke! Everytime he gets paid he has to use the majority of his reward to help repair the damages he made when he beat the bad guys up.

-So I’m not sure what you’re gonna do. Unless you get either Erza or Makarov involved.

-You better pray for whoever decides to talk smack about you within Natsu’s earshot (Which is a long distance let me tell you)

-Natsu’s about to go fight for your honor. Even if you tell him to stop.

-So dragons hoard things, and this is something that I wish got explored more. So I have a strong feeling that Natsu hoards a lot of your things. From sweaters, to skirts, to shirts and sometimes even your bras and or underwear because he’s a little pervy lizard. If you’re missing clothing (or pillows or stuffed animals) it’s really likely that Natsu has it.

-Natsu is a good boy! So don’t let him go, he’ll be sad.

[celestialtitania]

A Day Away

Here is my entry for the Fairy Tail Reverse Big Bang! It was hosted by @ftguildevents and I was partnered with the amazing @crackheadart42 who made the most amazing artwork. Their artwork was what inspired this fic. You can check it out here! Be sure to check it out and give them the love they deserve! Thank you to @alittlebitweird4 for betaing and making this story even better!

Now you can read the story on AO3, FFN or right here under the cut! Hope you enjoy!

“Freed? What are you hanging out with Freed for?" Natsu remarked as he watched Lucy frantically move around her apartment, trying to find everything she was looking for. Lucy rolled her eyes.

"It's Freed and Levy-chan okay? And because I promised Natsu, what other reason are you looking for?"

"Tell them you forgot. Come back to bed," he beckoned to her. He was still lying in her bed, cocooned by the warm pink comforter, voice a little muffled by the pillows.

"I don't break my promises. You know that." Lucy ignored Natsu's unhappy whine, exclaiming in delight when she found the book she was looking for.

"You're taking a book? That means you'll take forever!"

"Natsu, I spend every single day with you. It would do us some good to spend some time apart. Why don't you go find Gray or something?"

"Who told you that nonsense?!" Natsu demanded fiercely. When Lucy tiredly turned to look at him, she found him sitting upright on the bed, looking towards her angrily. "We don't need time apart," he scoffed. "Because…" And here he looked her right in the eye. "Because it's more fun when we're together!"

Lucy flushed a bright pink. "Okay, yes it is, but Freed and Levy-chan are my friends and they are also people who I want to have fun with. So please Natsu. It's just one day," Lucy gave him a soft look. "Please?"

Natsu frowned but when he crossed his arms angrily, Lucy knew that it meant that he'd given in. Lucy walked towards him and hugged him tightly, from behind. "Thank you."

"Yeah, yeah," he grumbled before he pulled her down with him. Lucy yelped in surprise as she fell, before Natsu turned her around and kissed her softly. "I guess you can go. If you're sure." He kissed her cheek. Then the other cheek. He stopped to smile at her. Lucy smiled back in understanding, before she pushed him off of her and got up, fixing her rumpled clothes.

"Nice try." Natsu pouted at her but let her go, finally accepting defeat. Lucy grabbed her bag, ready to leave. "Bye Natsu. I'll see you later okay."

Natsu pouted harder but waved nonetheless. Lucy winked at him as she left the house, a wide grin on her face.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Gajeel, I'm ready to leave," Levy was trying to say goodbye but Gajeel wasn't paying her any attention. He was too busy looking at his gears and levers.

"Gajeel." Levy tried again. Finally she couldn't take it anymore. "Gajeel!" Levy yelled, as loud as she could.

"Hmm?" He hummed distractedly. "You say something Shrimp?" He was barely glancing at her. Were his stupid machines really that much more important to him compared to her?

Levy felt irritation bubbling within her, as she clenched her fists around her bag's strap. For a moment, Levy imagined just how good it would feel to whack him on the head with her heavy, book-filled bag. But she shook her head and took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down. "It's okay Levy. We'll just try again. You have to be patient, remember?"

"Gajeel?" Levy called out sweetly, but there was a dangerous note in her tone. This time Gajeel paid attention. He put his nuts and bolts down and slowly turned around on his stool, to look at her. "Yeah, Shrimp what is it?"

"I'm leaving," Levy told him calmly.

Gajeel froze, eyes widening. "Leaving?" He swallowed hard. "Why?"

"Why? Because I'm tired of waiting and you're not even paying attention to me. Also I'm getting late." Levy stared at him expectantly, but Gajeel was too shocked to move. With a sigh, she turned around.

"Wait!" Gajeel strangled out. Levy turned to peer at him, a tiny smile on her lips that fell immediately as she saw the panic on his face.

"Gajeel?" Levy reached out towards him but Gajeel stiffened and moved away from her.

"Don't," he whispered softly.

"Don't? Don't what?" Levy asked, her hand still hanging in the air, a hurt expression on her face.

"Don't le..." He paused to take a breath, while she stared at him in confusion. "Don't leave me," he gritted out.

"Leave you?" Levy scrunched up her face. "I'm not leaving you. What made you get that idea?"

His jaw dropped. "You just said you were leaving!" He yelled while pointing at her.

"Yeah, because I have plans with Lu-chan and Freed. I told you, remember?"

Gajeel paused for a moment, his complexion returning to normal. He laughed a little, "Huh guess you did. My bad."

Levy shook her head in annoyance but then she softened. Levy walked towards him and took his hands in hers. "I could never leave you." Levy promised, staring deep into Gajeel's eyes. "You're stuck with me."

She smiled at him tenderly, making Gajeel's cheeks tint pink. "Gihihi. That's right," he smirked a little. Levy grinned back at him brightly and pressed her forehead to his. "See you later Gajeel."

"Bye," he muttered, his smirk turning into a tiny smile. She reached up to hug him tightly before darting off. "Remember to make dinner okay?" Levy called back as she closed the door.

"Yeah, yeah," he dismissed her, turning back to his things. Then he stopped and looked up. "Did she say she was hanging out with Bunny Girl and Ponytail?"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Are you sure you're alright Laxus? I don't have to go." Freed fretted over the blond man.

"Freed," Laxus interrupted before Freed could work himself up further. "I'm fine. I just said I'll be bored. Relax, I'll go see the old man or bug Bix for a bit. It's fine. You go have fun."

"Lucy and Levy only asked because they realized I'd read the book. They'll be fine without me," Freed said again, watching Laxus' face very carefully to see if he was hiding how he truly felt.

Laxus only gave him a flat look. "I really don't want you doing that. Seriously. The old man's been wanting me to go visit him anyways. Might as well now, otherwise I won't feel like it."

Freed's expression immediately turned disapproving. "Laxus, your grandfather loves you very much and he's always so kind and helpful to us. The least you can do is go visit him."

"That's what Erza's for," Laxus countered.

"He wants to see the both of you. You know that."

Laxus sighed. "Okay, okay. I said I'd go see him, didn't I?" Freed kept frowning. Laxus sighed harder. "Fine. I'll go see him today and then again with you. Now are we good?"

Freed gave him a bright smile.

"Get outta here," Laxus waved him off. Freed slowly slid off his chair. "At least let me make you breakfast first!"

"Freed I can handle it. I'm not a child." Freed must have still looked worried because Laxus motioned him to come towards him. Once he'd gotten close enough, Laxus brushed away a few strands of hair away and cupped his face. Quickly, he leant upwards and placed a kiss on his forehead.

"I'll be fine," Laxus whispered. "Don't worry."

Freed smiled. "I'll always worry," before softly kissing him on the lips this time. When he pulled away, Laxus whined.

"Laxus?"

"Just go," Laxus shook his head. Freed smiled shyly before kissing Laxus again, catching him by surprise. "I'll be home soon."

Laxus looked up at him, eyes dark and serious. "You'd better. Now go." With one last look behind him, Freed slipped out the door.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lucy, Levy and Freed all met up outside the cafe at the same time. Levy was panting, having run most of the way, though Lucy and Freed didn't look much better. Collectively they all glanced towards the time, which was far past when they had initially agreed to meet.

"Oh thank goodness. I thought I was super late," Lucy laughed, breaking the silence. The other two murmured a similar sentiment. "Shall we head inside?" Freed suggested.

Once they'd gotten settled down at a table and ordered drinks and food, Lucy voiced the question on her mind. "Why were the two of you so late?"

"I, uh...that is..." Levy stammered around for a bit before turning the question back around to Lucy. "You were late too Lu-chan!"

"Natsu wouldn't let me leave," Lucy shrugged. She raised an eyebrow at Levy who sighed. "I just wanted to say bye to Gajeel first but you know what he's like. Never paying enough attention."

"Please Levy-chan, he just gets distracted. You know you're his number one priority." Levy smiled, appearing to get lost in some sort of memory. Lucy waved a hand in front of her face, snapping Levy out of it.

"Levy-chan?" Lucy asked, a little concerned. "No, you're absolutely right," Levy agreed happily, a large smile on her face.

They both turned towards Freed who flushed. He tried to get out of answering but neither Lucy nor Levy would allow him to do so. Before long Freed gave in "I was worried about Laxus."

Lucy and Levy exchanged glances. "Worried?" Levy began. "For Laxus?" Lucy stressed.

"What's wrong? Is he okay? Did he get hurt?" They were beginning to get a little worried.

"Freed, if you need to reschedule," Lucy began slowly, Levy nodding emphatically beside her.

Freed quickly shook his head. "No, no, he's fine. I just…" he trailed off.

"Let's just talk about the book." He pulled the book out of his bag and flashed it in their faces to distract them. It worked, Levy's eyes immediately brightened as she launched into a discussion of her favourite parts. Lucy kept glancing at Freed but before long she too was far more invested in the discussion than in prying answers out of Freed.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Laxus stared at his fridge. How was it possible that it was filled with food yet he couldn't find a single thing he wanted to eat? He'd been the one to push Freed to go and have fun with Levy and Lucy too.

"Eggs maybe?" He mused out loud to himself. "Those are supposed to be easy to make right? Freed usually had them done in minutes. He took the carton out, leaving it on the shelf while he set the pan on the stove to heat up. He took out a bowl and tried to crack the egg open. Try being the operative word there.

The egg became completely smashed, little pieces of shell mixing in with the yolk. He set that one aside to try again. This time the egg cracked right and fell onto the floor. Laxus scowled, angrily turning off the stove.

"This is all Natsu's fault," he decided, giving up on cooking for himself. "The idiot knows how to cook. The least he can do is come over and help. Besides, the old man will just yell at me if I show up expecting food."

With that, Laxus grabbed the phone fully intent on forcing Natsu to come over and make him something. Not to mention, knowing his grandfather, instead of eating food they'd both just get drunk instead. Laxus had heard enough lectures from Freed about day-time drinking, and he wasn't interested in hearing any more.

Natsu picked up on the first ring. Laxus heard a yawn before he bothered to say hello.

"Get over here."

"Huh? Who?" Natsu asked, sounding confused.

"It's Laxus. Now get over here."

"Laxus? You want me to come over to your place? Really? Why? I mean you normally have to threaten me to stay away. Are you feeling alright?"

Laxus felt his eye twitch listening to Natsu ramble on. "Just get over here, got it?" He snapped before cutting the line. "The idiot had better show up quick," he growled to himself as he began to clean the mess he'd made. Laxus had just finished when the doorbell rang.

Laxus swung the door open, already beginning to speak. "Natsu, you'd better…" Laxus cut himself off. It wasn't Natsu at the door.

Gajeel stood there panting, hair a disheveled mess. Laxus stared at him. "What the hell? Did something run you over?"

Gajeel glared and angrily pointed at him. Laxus was in no mood to hear one of Gajeel's rants though, so before he could get started, Laxus tried to push the door close.

"Hey, wait!" Gajeel protested, wedging himself into the doorframe.

"I don't know what you want and I don't care."

"Can I at least come inside?"

"No." Laxus tried to push the door closed harder.

"Laxus? Gajeel? What're you two doing?" A voice asked. Laxus looked up to see Natsu staring at them, his expression showing that he was completely weirded out.

He opened the door, causing Gajeel to fall to the ground. Ignoring his protests, Laxus gestured for them to both come inside. Gajeel stood up glaring and stomped in. Natsu followed.

"What did you call me for? I was sleeping you know," Natsu complained.

"I don't care," Laxus pointed towards the kitchen. "Go on."

Natsu's eyes lit up. "You invited me here to eat?" He began to run towards the fridge.

"Not so fast," Laxus grabbed the back of his collar. "You have to make me food first. Then maybe I'll let you eat some of it."

"Y'know I'm not your personal chef right?" Natsu frowned.

"Yeah well, your girlfriend stole my boyfriend, so I don't care. Now make me food."

Gajeel cleared his throat angrily. Laxus shot him a dark look and he fell silent with a scowl. He turned back to Natsu. "Fine, I'll cook for you but I definitely get to eat some of it, okay?"

Laxus waved his hand and Natsu got to work. Laxus turned towards his other, unwanted guest.

"Now why are you here Gajeel?"

"You better make me some of that food too," Gajeel grumbled at Natsu. Laxus crossed his arms. "I don't recall inviting you."

"Well I'm here now aren't I?"

"You can leave," Natsu suggested.

"I don't want to leave," Gajeel shot back.

Before they could delve into a petty argument, Laxus intervened. "What did you show up here for?"

"Why is Book Boy hanging out with Shrimp?"

"Who?" Laxus asked blankly, not recognizing either name.

Gajeel made a frustrated noise, while flailing his arms. "I'm talking about Freed. Why is he with Levy?"

"What's your problem with it? Lucy's there too!" Natsu butted in. Laxus gestured towards Natsu, indicating that he had a point.

Gajeel shuddered. "Last time Shrimp and Ponytail hung out, they started talking in some dead language no one cares bout 'cept for them. Levy wouldn't stop at all, and refused to talk to me normally. Which fine I could deal with that for a bit, but no. She expects me to understand her when she does that."

"So?" Natsu asked, uncomprehendingly.

"So I don't understand her idiot! Then she just gets mad at me!"

"That's got nothing to do with Freed so it isn't my problem," Laxus shrugged, genuinely not caring. "Is breakfast ready? I have to go see the old man too."

"Almost and are you going to go see Gramps? Can I come?" Natsu asked excitedly.

"No."

"Aw come on! Why not?" Natsu whined.

"Listen to me," Gajeel roared furiously.

"Lucy is there too and old languages aren't her thing. Relax dude," Natsu shrugged and went back to bugging Laxus to let him go with him to see Makarov.

Gajeel felt his mouth open and close a few times before he slumped into a chair. "Ah whatever. Get me some food."

"Not your cook either."

"You're already cooking!"

"Natsu. Food. Now." Laxus commanded, rubbing his temples. Their arguing was giving him a headache.

"Yeah, yeah," Natsu shoved a plate with an omelette and toast into his hands. "Here. Where's the ketchup?"

Laxus went to scour the panty while Natsu handed a similar plate to Gajeel. "Juice is in the fridge," he called back.

"Got it," Gajeel called back. When Laxus turned back, the two were seated and waiting to eat. He tossed the ketchup at Natsu who quickly applied it. "Let's eat."

"Thank you for the food," they all muttered before digging in.

"So Gajeel and I are coming with you," Natsu announced.

Laxus choked as he ate, and began to cough. "What do you mean you're coming with me?"

"To see Gramps!"

"No!" Laxus refused again.

"We don't have anything better to do," Gajeel shrugged.

"I don't care. No way!"

"Too late," Natsu grinned irritatingly. "It's already been decided." Laxus closed his eyes trying to keep himself from reacting.

"Whatever, I'm done. Do the dishes." He figured he'd make them do it, otherwise Freed would immediately get started on washing. He hated a dirty sink.

"What!" Gajeel and Natsu both began to object but Laxus cut them off. "Do the dishes and I'll let you come with me." He sighed, the things he did for Freed.

"Deal!" Natsu grinned. Gajeel rolled his eyes but turned to help anyways.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"I haven't seen Gramps in forever!" Natsu chattered happily, right in Laxus' ear.

"How much farther?" Gajeel asked moodily.

Laxus turned up the volume on his phone louder, trying to drown out their voices with his music. It wasn't working.

"Which way is this anyway?" Gajeel was complaining again. "I don't remember coming this way before."

"It's Erza's shortcut. She doesn't tell everyone about it," Natsu was bragging. Gajeel muttered something about her only telling Natsu because she was beating him up. That made Laxus laugh a little.

"Why you," Natsu took up a fighting stance and was ready to pounce on Gajeel but Laxus grabbed his scarf before he could. "Don't you dare," he warned. Natsu pouted but quieted down. Laxus was about to let go, when he caught a flash of green in one of the store windows.

"Laxus?" Natsu questioned while trying to get loose. Gajeel followed his gaze and made a sound of surprise. That made Natsu even more determined to escape and see just what was so interesting.

With a fierce tug, he wrenched away from Laxus and whirled around to check what they were looking at. Immediately, a huge grin overtook his face.

"Lucy!" Natsu cried out. He started to walk closer, yelling Lucy's name. Before he could catch her attention though, Laxus and Gajeel grabbed him from behind, Gajeel putting a hand over his mouth to muffle him.

"Be quiet!" Laxus ordered, as they moved closer to the window to get a better look.

"Mmph!" Natsu growled, trying to shake himself free again.

"We're trying to keep a low profile. So shut up!" Gajeel hissed. Then he pulled away from Natsu, groaning in disgust. "Ew! Did ya have to lick me?!"

Natsu grinned smugly and turned to Laxus without answering. "Why're we keeping quiet?" He demanded to know.

"I don't want to ruin it for them with your loud mouths," Laxus shrugged to Gajeel and Natsu's outrage.

"What are they even doing here? I thought they'd be at the library."

"Lucy did leave without eating. Probably because they'd always planned to meet at the cafe," Natsu said thoughtfully.

"Freed did the same," Laxus agreed. Both looked at Gajeel, a little accusatorily. "Pay more attention," Laxus ordered.

Gajeel glared. "Don't need to hear that from you," he sneered.

Laxus clenched his fists and took a deep breath. "For Freed," he muttered to himself, over and over again, trying to calm himself down. "For Freed."

"What's for Freed?" Natsu asked obliviously. "Listen, I'm bored and I wanna see Lucy. She'd be happy to see me."

"Levy wouldn't be," Gajeel frowned. Laxus pointed at Gajeel to show his agreement.

"Then let's go. What're we sticking around for? I'm hungry!"

"You're not going to the old man's house to eat his food!" Laxus snapped at Natsu, while Gajeel shook his head in disbelief.

"Why not? Gramps loves feeding me!"

"Wow. You really never pay attention to him, now do you?" Gajeel muttered incredulously.

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"It means," Laxus cut in, "that you have no idea what's going on in the world. I'm telling you right now, you aren't making Gramps feed you. You literally just ate at my place!"

"Guess he can't help it," Gajeel threw in snidely. "He's too brainless to get his own food."

"Why you!" That was the last straw. Natsu pounced on Gajeel angrily, determined to make him pay for what he said.

"Would you two stop it!" Laxus pulled them apart. "Stop acting like children!"

"At least I can cook!" Natsu hollered, right in Laxus' ear.

He held them tightly for a moment, then sighed. "Screw it." He let Gajeel go, to punch Natsu in the gut. Gajeel began to laugh uproariously, in the most obnoxious way possible. Laxus turned to punch Gajeel too, who ended up falling a few feet away.

"Idiots," he sighed again looking down. That was his mistake. Natsu and Gajeel working together for once both ran up and punched him simultaneously.

Laxus felt his anger skyrocket, but before he could retaliate, an annoyed voice cleared their throat.

The three boys turned to see their respective significant other staring at them in displeasure.

"And just what are you three doing?" Lucy asked, her voice deceptively calm.

"L-Lucy!" Natsu stammered, easily recognizing the look in his girlfriend's eyes. "We were just...tell them what we were doing Gajeel!"

"Yes, Gajeel, go ahead. Tell us why you three are here while you're at it, as well," Levy frowned, her arms crossed over her chest.

Gajeel glared at Natsu for throwing him under the bus, before turning to look at Levy. "Good question Shrimp. I didn't even know you were here though. I mean Laxus was the one who brought us here!"

"Weren't you going to go visit Grandfather?" Freed, wonderful Freed, looked more worried than anything else.

"We were. These two idiots insisted on joining me though," Laxus shrugged.

"That was because you called me over to cook for you, because you're incapable of making eggs or anything else!" Natsu shouted immediately, making Laxus wince. He knew he should've hit Natsu harder. "I just wanted to go see Gramps since it's been so long since Erza's told us to visit."

"What?" Freed gasped. "Why didn't you say anything? I would've cooked for you before I left!"

"I was fine, Freed. Honest. Natsu doesn't know what he's talking about."

Natsu geared up to start fighting again, but Lucy silenced him with a single look. That was impressive. Laxus made a mental note to get the secret to shutting Natsu up from her later.

"That doesn't explain why you three were fighting outside," Levy cut in.

"How'd you even know we were here?" Gajeel shot back.

Lucy gestured to the giant window. "Also you three weren't exactly quiet."

"Sorry for ruining your day," Natsu said innocently. "I didn't want to disturb you guys at all." Laxus and Gajeel's jaws dropped, remembering how they were the ones who had kept Natsu from barging in at the first opportunity. Lucy ate it up too, smiling at Natsu sweetly, letting any lingering anger go at once.

"That is so sweet," Levy remarked, as Lucy gave Natsu a quick peck on the cheek for being so thoughtful. Laxus and Gajeel's jaws dropped further, their outrage clear.

Freed, noticing the looks on their faces bit back a laugh. "Well, we had finished discussing our book, so you didn't disturb us all that much. Why don't we all go see Grandfather together? He'll be happy to see all of us."

"It's always better for Gramps when we're all there," Levy agreed slowly, clearly side-eyeing Gajeel. He gave her a sheepish look, making her roll her eyes. She smiled back though, clearly unable to stay mad.

"Then it's settled! Let's go!" Freed smiled. They all began walking together, in a giant cluster towards Makarov's house. Levy and Lucy were walking side by side and made sure their boyfriends didn't start fighting again, by holding on to their respective boyfriend's arm. Trailing along, Laxus took a moment to look at Freed to apologize.

Freed shook his head though. "It's fine," he dismissed before Laxus could even say anything, smiling at him gently. Laxus smiled back and took one of Freed's hands in his own. Freed squeezed his hand back as they walked contentedly behind the others, their fingers laced together.

[kiliinstinct]

Have You Missed Me? // Nalu One-Shot

Inspired By the Recent Artwork by @fainttwinkling!! (Click Here For Image) One look and the emotions and situation between Natsu and Lucy just spoke to me, I had to write it out! Warning: Adult Content - You read that Right. Avert ye gaze if you’re a younglin’. Pairing: Obviously Nalu. Apologies for any spelling errors, I wrote this rather quickly and didn’t really take much time to edit. 

-- Tag List --

@pbfanart @cobblepottantrum @yuldragneel @bearpluscat @millennial-star-gazer @caandleworks @kaycha1989 @furidojasutin @eragonsoul @just-another-dream-girl @whatdidyasayiamdaydreaming @hanahathefluffydragon   @softscream @dlshieldss @ctay21 @acidrain1698 @lovelyluce @clockworkassassino @celestialwolf24 @unwei @jem-hamster-chan @melissa827 @meilynalu @littlejinxed @moonlitstargazerforever @trollka21

----

‘Have you missed me?’

Such a simple question with a loaded answer. 

A day had turned to a week. A week into a month. A month…. Into three. Too long, far too long. It was taking its toll on him. An obvious toll that everyone could see. It started subtly. His smile stopped reaching his eyes one day- the cackling laugh that erupted so often grew quiet: subdued. At one point, he didn’t respond to Gray or even Gajeel goading him to a fight. 

It was worrisome, but they all knew better than to force him. Natsu tried to live through every day as if nothing were wrong, but the longer Lucy stayed away, the harder it became. Jobs were easy. He went on one or two daily, even joined up with Erza, Gray and Wendy for a few that lasted a couple of days or more, but none would last as long as the one Lucy had been on and there was only so many days Natsu could pretend it wasn’t eating at him the longer she was away. They’d never been apart for so long, not since she’d joined the Guild- it was … an empty feeling he didn’t want to name. 

Natsu had taken to sleeping in her apartment on Strawberry Street. It wasn’t beyond the ordinary; the days spent staying at her place tripled the moment their relationship became official, but his days after she left had begun at his own home with happy. It had changed with time- the small house became devoid of sound as he and Happy moved their nights to the comfort of Lucy’s empty bed. 

The comforter smelled like her- a smell that couldn’t leave after so many washes or days away-  it eased his nights and made it easier, though they were full of nightmares. Had the job gone wrong? Was she okay? Countless nights finding her again and again, only for her to disappear in a multitude of ways: wounded, fading, dying, waving goodbye- versions were endless. He never spoke of them, but every guild member knew something was wrong when he came to the Hall, tired and dazed, falling asleep with his face smushed in the Fire Chicken placed before him. 

“- maybe you should get some more sleep.” Erza said, frowning pulling at her face while her arms crossed. “Making a mess is usual, but this is becoming ridiculous.”

“I’m fine.” He grumbled, face planted to the table, little specks of the earlier dish still covering a bit of his nose and chin. He’d wipe them off later. Natsu may have been pushing Erza’s button’s with that response, but even Gray tapped the wood next to him, chiming in with an opinion before the redhead could continue.

“Dude, serious,” He mumbled, scratched the back of his head, somewhat uncomfortable. “Usually I’d call you an idiot, but even I’m starting to feel bad. Either quit sulking or go back to bed!”

Natsu lifted a hand to give his fellow wizard a well-known hand signal that gave his opinion loud and clear. Gray smacked the hand and scoffed. “Fine. Suit yourself, you flamin’ idiot.”

“Is-.. is Natsu going to be okay?” 

“I said I’m fine!” Snapped Natsu, finally lifting his head to look towards Wendy, pulling a small grin. “Seriously guys, I know Lucy’s more than tough and will be back in no time, so can ya’ drop it?”

His answer came when Erza’s hand shot out, pinching his ear and forcing a loud yelp to escape him, “We’ll drop it as soon as you stop pathetically moping on the table,  and get some sleep!”

A grunt of pain, a few chuckles around the hall, and a wave to Happy was the end to his venture that day- effectively kicked out for rest. ‘Don’t you worry, Natsu!’ Happy had told him whilst he was shoved out the door, ‘I’ll hold the fort until you feel better and if Lucy comes back, I’ll even tell her where you’re at!’

Pfft, He thanked Happy with a pat to the Exceed’s head, but figured it wouldn’t matter. Lucy always liked to come home first and if that happened… well, he certainly wasn’t sleeping back at his place. Surrounded by so many memories somehow made his sleep even worse. Slinking through Lucy’s window, it was easy to flop onto the mattress, shuffle himself against the blanket and pillows and let his exhaustion over take him. Maybe once he rested, he could drag Happy off for fishing or another job….

Her scent was there again, overflowing his senses. Natsu’s tense muscles relaxed, sighing softly as the pillow and scarf effectively covered his tired eyes. He’d worry about shutting the window later (if he remembered)- for now he was more than content to slowly drift off. The ticking of a nearby clock reminded him vaguely of the emptiness in the apartment and he frowned, peeking one eye out into the dim light of her room. 

It wasn’t as fun without Lucy around…  he’d noticed it before, time and time again- the exhilaration he’d feel when they were doing things together: either playing a game, teasing or working- the world just seemed a little bit brighter. While his life was still bright, and his family there- somehow… things just felt…. 

“It’s all dusty.” He mumbled. With that word in the air, he sighed, allowing dark, tired eyes to slide shut, and waited for his tired body to give in. 

Lucy’s scent was overwhelming when he came to. 

It was everywhere, strong and musky- the sort of smell that followed her after a hard job or training. Usually she would shower immediately, claiming she felt gross and had to wash herself, but he never minded it. (It really wasn’t THAT bad of a smell- most wouldn’t even notice if they didn’t have the sort of nose he did.)  This was a scent he was used to, but as the sleep slowly seeped from him, Natsu realized it was far too strong and-

A rustling of hair  brushed his face, the mattress bent from added weight and the window clicking shut echoed through the room- Natsu’s eyes shot open, very much awake.

“-Lucy?!” The question held excitement, blood pumping through his ears as he hoped his senses hadn’t betrayed him- freezing in place when he was greeted with the family, brown eyes of his girlfriend. 

She had also frozen, slightly leaning over him still from her attempts to shut the window as quietly as possible. “Oh- sorry, did I wake you?” She questioned, voice low, as if her quiet whispers could lull him back to sleep. “You looked so tired, I didn’t want to-”

Lucy never had the chance to finish her sentence as Natsu’s body reacted, surging forward to grab her- the force sent them both tumbling off the bed and crashing to the floor.  Her screech was sudden and it rang in his ears, but he didn’t care- he was more concerned with ensuring he wasn’t having another one of his many vivid dreams. She felt real enough- her clothes were wrinkled from travel- her hair frizzed in weird places and her keys jangled at her hip. 

Her body directly beneath his, hips straddling by his own legs and breath panting into his ear as she struggled to adjust to his sudden weight, gave Natsu all the proof he needed: His Lucy was home. 

“Weirdo,” Natsu said, head lifting to beam at her- the dimples in his smile meeting his eyes for what felt the first time in weeks, “You’ve been workin’ forever and you're worried about ME bein’ tired?”

Lucy’s answering smile looked winded and she simpered, “- it was only a few months, not forever, you goof. I came back just fine!.”

“Yeah, yeah you sure did,” He rasped back, lips surging down to silence her. He didn’t want to talk, not just yet. Natsu’s relieved laughter passed from his mouth to hers, lips molding over her own, coaxing them open to dip his tongue in to meet her own- it wasn’t tentative or searching. It was fast, desperate almost. The taste of her, the feel of her breath against his face, the way she squirmed and looked for a position for her arms as their kiss grew more frenzied…

It spoke the words he didn’t know how to say. I’ve missed you. I’ve missed you so damn much… !

Lucy hadn’t been prepared, gasping for much needed air when Natsu finally relented, pecking her mouth over and over in between laughter and their whispered names. He couldn’t get enough. Wouldn’t get enough. Not just yet. Rough fingers move along the curve of her hips, finding the skin her shirt couldn’t cover- he grasped her, feeling the rise in temperature, the hitch of her breath as his hot mouth descended upon her jaw before moving back up again. What seemed rushed, turned slow as he took in air and pulled back to admire the flush and swell of Lucy’s lips. How he’d missed that dazed look on her eyes.

“Natsu what are you-” Another interrupted, but a welcomed one. Lucy bit back her words, cheeks growing redder as Natsu tenderly moved to press a soft kiss to her nose, her eyelids and even her forehead, before moving back to her lips. The rough movement that started took a more sensuous turn as he pressed their heads together, dark eyes simmering in the dark.  The sun had been high when he’d fallen asleep, but now, he subconsciously realized their only source of light was a gentle glow from the moon. 

Though he was far more interested in the light he held within his very arms. “You are never takin’ a job that long ever again.” He said- voice serious, but eyes gleaming as he sat up, pulling her with him to brush their hips together- allowing her fingers, now shaking with her own anticipation and need, to slide his scarf off slowly before zipping down his coat to brush off his shoulders. She gave him a look he knew all too well and he  backpedaled, “At least not without me you aren’t.”

What started as a reprimand turned to a giggle as Lucy’s slim fingers finally pushed off the fabric of Natsu’s clothes and met with his heated skin, “Have you missed me, Natsu?” She asked. No answer was needed- they both knew it either way and her laughter was muffled by his impatient hands suddenly pulling at her shirt, lifting it over her arms and tossing it aside. In no time, his own hands found skin once more,  trailing up and down her Lucy’s ribs before grasping the swell of her breasts, squeezing in a silent tempo while his mouth covered hers. 

The slow, languid push and pull of their tongues was met with soft sighs and more murmurs- her legs positioned over his, pelvis and hips pressing atop his own and his hands, still impatient for more touch, grasped her thigh to push her closer against him and explored the expanse of her back. Lucy whimpered when he pulled away, teeth nipping her lip before descending downward, brows furrowed as he placed nips and open mouthed kisses over her neck and shoulder. 

More. He needed more. 

Lucy tilted her head back, giving Natsu more room to move, arms moving over his shoulder, hips shifting  as he continued to suck against her skin leaving a trail of marks. There were many words at the tip of her tongue, all wanting to be released, but she held them back. Not yet, not now- he needed this, inhaling sharply when his teeth and tongue met the tip of her nipples, she admitted in lustful whispers her own need. 

‘I missed you. I missed Happy.. I missed Gray, Erza and Wendy…’

Another rough suck and her hips gyrated against his, heat pooling in her stomach, twisting and coiling as nails dragged down his shoulders. 

‘But most importantly…’

Another press against each other, their bottoms still in the way and Natsu growled, impatient, frustrated-  Lucy whined in response as his hands quickly moved to push her skirt up, thin, lace panties pushed aside for his fingers to move and test her. She was already prepared for him- already waiting, needing- wanting-

Natsu’s impatience grew, but he ignored the tightness of his pants, grunting in satisfaction when the pads of his fingers found the sensitive bud, hidden from everyone, but him. He circled his finger,  gave pressure and stimulation- marveling at the slowly building sounds that escaped Lucy’s mouth. She’d always been noisy- breathy and more than willing to tell him just what she liked through hushed whispers against his ear. 

‘I missed you-!’

It if had been any other day, any other night- they may have taken their time. Natsu would have  eventually moved her to the bed and consumed every inch of her wish his mouth and she may have traced the contours of every muscle he possessed with her tongue before swallowing him down for great release. This was not that night. A heavy need consumed every move, every motion- Natsu’s hand continued to press and play against her, eventually testing her wetness by dipping two fingers inside, thrusting in and out.

While she crooned, urging him on, hips moving against his own in a tempo searching for a release she hadn’t reached since the last she had seen him, Natsu continued his crusade against her skin: his teeth marked her with more love bites and when one breast received enough attention to ache when he pulled away, he moved to the other, suckling and pulling forth more sounds from her mouth as he helped build her need higher and higher. He timed it with the thrusts of his fingers and pressing of his thumb, but Natsu wasn’t the only one. 

Lucy needed more- far more than what she was given, mind altered by the steady build he was giving her inflamed body. Fingers quickly unclasped the belt as his waist, weaved around his own hands to push the hem of his pants down- finally grasping the hardness she desperately wanted to replace his fingers.

He was hard, painfully so- his movements paused when she gripped him, pumping her hand up and down while their eyes finally met with the other. A silent conversation passed between them- heavy breathing mixed between the two in the heavy air, and his hand finally slid away from her- giving opening for the swell of his head to touch against her, teasing as her hips moved to angle herself. “N-Natsu,” Lucy rasped, free hand moved to caress his face, tongue peeking out to swipe at her swollen lips, “We can take our time later, please just- “ She whined again when his hands gripped her hips in response, “Just do it!” 

Fingers flexed against her and Natsu helped with the very thing she wanted. Pressing her hips down against him, he slipped inside her, groaning from the sensation. They were together, working as one, taking only a few moments to adjust before their hips were moving together in a well-practiced rhythm that would send them higher and higher to a point they both desperately needed. 

They kissed, mouths moving sloppily together, unable to keep up with their frantic pace.  Natsu was already pent up, but he groaned in his attempts to hold back the pleasure. Not yet, not so soon, Lucy’s insides gripped him with every thrust and her mouth mimicking his own moments before, sucked the skin of his neck, licked the sweat as her own gasps and mewls echoed into the room.  “D-damn that feels so good, Lucy!”

He howled his praises and the work of his hands served their purpose, Lucy’s pleasure was already meeting the precipice she sought. Her movements stuttered and she grit her teeth, biting his skin when wave after wave of pleasure washed through her, crying out his name, Natsu finally allowed his own release- giving in to the conjoined pleasure, surging roughly inside her with every spurt of his orgasm. . 

It felt like mere seconds and an eternity had passed, panting against the other with sweaty foreheads pressed together. Lucy shuddered in the aftermath, slouching against Natsu as he held her. It was a few minutes longer before they both put together the crumpled clothes on their hips- their position on the floor and lost clothing littered around them. 

Natsu laughed first. A low, tired chuckle soon followed by Lucy's lips slowly meeting again between giggles. With weary limbs, they eventually moved to Lucy’s bed, sliding under the blankets as they kicked away the rest of their clothes. They would worry about the clean up later. 

Silence fell between them. A peaceful calm that comes between two people when they’ve finally come home: relief and contentedness filling them as Natsu pulled Lucy close against him, arms encircling her hips as she snuggled close. He pressed soft kisses against the back of her ear, and she giggled at each one, hands moved to encircle with his fingers. Despite his overdue rest through the day, Natsu felt all the worries and nerves he’d hidden beneath the surface, slide away, covering him with a different kind of exhaustion. 

It wasn’t until Lucy’s own breathing began to even, closing in on sleep, that he chose to finally answer the question she’d gave him. Another soft kiss before he nuzzled his face into her hair. 

“I missed ya way too damn much.” He admitted, practically purring into Lucy’s golden tresses. She snorted, the closest to a laugh she could come while her limbs were so tired, but squeezed his hand in response. “- how did the job go?”

Her sleepy reply came with a tilt of her head, pride swimming in her eyes, “The client was happy he requested my help and I have a new key to show for it.” Before he could ask further, she tilted herself enough to kiss the tip of his nose and fell back against her own pillows. “- talk more later, sleep now.”

Her tired plea and yawn pulled forth another laugh from Natsu, but he didn’t fight it. 

They had plenty of time to catch up. For now, he’d keep her all to himself.

[sweetmemories2606]

Be My Forever (MesCana Day)

Hey everyone! Here I bring you my second MesCana fic because today is officially their day! :)) 

I am dedicating it to the lovely Daphne (@tobethefairybest​), who created this amazing ship. 

While I know it is a rather unthought of pairing which most people are unfamiliar with, I hope that by reading this story and its sequel, Forget, you might fall in love with Mest and Cana's relationship just as I did. 

Here's the info: 

Title: Be My Forever

Summary: Mest was falling in love, but there was too much holding him back from telling her. It had only been a year since he had completed his mission and they were still adjusting to being in each other's life again. The timing wasn't right, but would it ever be? 

Timeline: Avatar/Alvarez Arcs

Warnings: This is pretty angsty and there is a funeral scene which might be too much. 

Happy reading! 

                             ---------------------

                              October X792

"Are you sure you're ready?" Cana asked, surprised and honestly a little worried. "I am," Mest replied, glancing at the letter in his hands. "It's time I tell everyone the truth." "I wonder how they will take it." She wondered, frowning. He lowered his head, a wistful look upon his face. "I hope they'll forgive me." "They'll understand," Cana reassured, putting a hand on his shoulder. He tensed, but tried not to let it show, putting on a smile instead. "Thank you. Having you by my side gives me the courage to finally come clean." She watched him for a moment, searching, also settling for a smile. "I'm glad. You know I'm always here for you."

                            ---------------------                              Nearly a year ago "I'm so sorry," Cana said, taking his hand. They were at the cemetery in ERA, where the Magic Council used to reside before they had all been murdered. After such a tragic event, the townspeople had organised a funeral which was taking place. Mest had returned to bury Lahar, who had been his closest friend and the person who had helped him get through the 7 years when Fairy Tail was gone. Mest hadn't yet fully comprehended that his friend was gone, but the memory of holding Lahar's body and begging him to wake was etched on his mind. Feeling Cana squeeze his hand, he tightened his grip. "Thank you," Glancing at her, he tried to convey how much he appreciated her coming with him. "For being here." She offered a sorrowful smile. "Of course." They had to silence once the ceremony began. It was long, exhausting and heartbreaking. Many people gave speeches about the deceased council members. Some expressed despair and sorrow, others anger and a few hope for a better future. Mest tried to encompass all these emotions. Being the only survivor, he spoke about the sacrifices that had been made, his anger at being unable to stop Jackal and how he hoped these deaths wouldn't be in vain. Once the funeral was over and most people had left, he decided to take a moment to say goodbye to Lahar. Cana gave him some space, but he could feel her presence nearby. It comforted him, knowing that even though he had lost so much, she was still there. Mest returned to her side after burying Lahar's broken glasses close to the grave. Somehow, once his eyes met hers, he burst into tears, falling to his knees. She held him against her chest and rubbed circles against his back, letting him cry all he needed. Between sobs, he thanked her and she gave one simple response. "You don't have to thank me. I'm always here for you."

                            ---------------------

The memory nearly brought tears to his eyes, but Mest composed himself. "Thank you." There was silence; awkward and uncomfortable. Cana quickly removed her hand, returning it to her side. He wasn't sure what this meant, but tried not to think about it. About to tell her they should start packing, but then she asked.  "Are you going to tell them everything?" "I have to," Mest replied, determined. "They need to know how serious the situation is." Cana nodded before letting out a sigh, concerned again. "And have you really not heard anything from Master?" He shook his head. "No. I'm honestly scared he's..." He couldn't finish the thought. "No," Cana denied it immediately. "I know he's still alive." He sighed deeply. "Let's hope so." Glancing at the letter again, he told her. "We should start packing if we want to make it to Magnolia in time." "Okay," She offered another small smile. "Should we leave for the station in 2 hours?" Mest nodded in agreement. "That's fine with me." Watching her turn around and walk back towards her bedroom, he sighed again. It was hard being so close to her without telling her how he felt, but he knew it was best. It had only been a year since he had completed his mission and they were still adjusting to being in each other's life again.

                            ---------------------

                               One year ago “Mest Gryder, your mission is complete.” He stared at Makarov in utter shock. Then his eyes caught the Fairy Tail mark which suddenly appeared on his shoulder. "What the hell is this?" He started freaking out. "Start talking!" Makarov explained things calmly. How Mest had always had this emblem because he had been a member of Fairy Tail. How his devotion to the guild had been so great that he'd been willing to erase his own memories and identity.   Mest didn't want to believe it at first, but suddenly the pieces started to come in. Flashback by flashback, he began to remember his life and the mission he had risked so much for. Makarov watched him quietly, a sympathetic look upon his face, letting the young man figure things out himself. Then his eyes wandered to someone behind Mest, making the latter turn around. She was standing closeby, eyes widened, clearly shocked. There was no doubt she had heard what they had said and for a moment Mest worried about what she would do. Then he remembered. His own eyes widened once memories of all the moments they had shared returned full force. They had been childhood friends just like Gray, Erza and Natsu. Always so close and always there for each other. Until Mest had left for his mission, breaking her heart. Recalling the moment he had left her, his own heart ached. "Cana...." She sniffled, seemingly fighting against tears. "Mest?" Makarov glanced between them with sadness. "I can only imagine how much you two must've missed each other. I'm sorry it had to be like this." "I..." Cana struggled with words. "You...We were..." "You remember?" Mest asked and she nodded, tears streaming down her face. He couldn't stop himself from crying too. It was finally over. At last he was home again with her.

                            ---------------------

Unfortunately, home had ceased to exist that same night. Fairy Tail was disbanded and Mest knew why, but still hated that he couldn't be reunited with his friends after so long. Each took a different path, some never to be seen again until a year later. Mest was completely lost at what to do, but Cana helped him. She let him stay at her apartment for a while and invited him to come along on her search for her father. They spent months travelling together, taking on jobs like they used to and getting to know each other. He told her everything about his life in the Council and during the seven years they were apart. She told him about reconnecting with her father before he had disappeared again. During that time, feelings developed. Mest wasn't sure exactly why, but he started seeing her in a different light. When they would joke about never being able to get rid of the other, he'd note that the mere thought of being apart from her again was heartbreaking. When she'd flirt with other men or reminisce about her brief fling with Bacchus from the Quatro Cerberus Guild, Mest would feel jealous. It had never happened before, but now it was too frequent to ignore. He reflected about their relationship and wondered if perhaps it could become something else. It was strange, having romantic thoughts about Cana. Even though he was aware that sometimes close friendships like theirs could be the foundation of a long-lasting romance, Mest had never considered it before. In fact, he had barely even considered romance before. During his time at Fairy Tail their friendship had been more than enough and while he was working for the Council, his job had taken sole focus. Only during those seven years had he considered a relationship after much persuasion from Lahar, but Mest had been so broken then. He still was. There were too many wounds that needed to be healed and traumas which held him back. He still needed to fully move on from the horrible events of the war against Tartaros and Lahar's death. Furthermore, there was also the fact he had no idea whether Cana felt the same. She never gave clear signals that her feelings had changed which could be frustrating at times. For the sake of their friendship, Mest decided not to tell her that he was falling in love. A decision which at times could be very hard to keep.

                            ---------------------                                 3 months ago "What do you think?" Cana glanced at him, curious. "It's a nice apartment." Mest took another look around the living room, which was decently sized. There was a red couch with a rectangular table in front, two orange chairs and a fireplace. "Quite cozy." "I agree." She nodded, smiling brightly. "I think it's the perfect place for us to settle for now." "And are you sure that you want to settle?" He questioned. Cana frowned for a moment and he guessed she was wondering if this was the right choice. It had been a few weeks since she had suggested that they search for a place to stay in Oak Town, which was closest from their latest camping site. "I don't know…" She bit her lip. "I want to keep searching for my father, but it's clear he doesn't want to be found." "Maybe it's best to wait until he contacts you," Mest suggested. She looked down sadly. "You mean 'if' he contacts me." Sensing her distress, he closed the distance between them, bringing her in for a tight hug. "He will. You just have give him more time." She sighed, letting her head rest against his chest. It felt so right to hold her like this. He couldn't stop his mind from wandering or his feelings from surfacing. "You always know what to say, don't you?" Cana looked up, eyes shiny with unshed tears. "That's not true," Mest disagreed, feeling his heartbeat speeding up once her hand gently touched his cheek. "It is." She smiled, but the tears started falling. "I'm so glad you're here with me." He was tempted to wipe them away, but restrained himself. "I'm happy to be here." Her arms tightened around his torso before her head returned to his chest. He felt his shirt becoming damp as she continued to cry. Mest held her close, letting her be, while attempting to calm his racing hard and suppress his emotions. A few minutes later, she pulled away, removing herself from his embrace and taking a step back. While wiping the remaining tears, she gave him a grateful look. "Thank you. For everything." He offered a genuine smile. "Of course." At that moment, he wanted to tell her the truth so badly. Then he remembered why he shouldn't. Instead, Mest decided to say something which was also true, but did not reveal his growing feelings. "I'm always here for you."

                            ---------------------

"Mest? Why are you still standing there?" Cana's voice broke him out of his thoughts. She stood by her bedroom door, staring at him in concern. Mest realised that he remained by the red couch. Putting Lucy's letter into his pocket, he apologised. "Sorry. I was just lost in thought." Cana watched him for a moment. "Are you okay?" He put on another tense, fake smile. "Yeah. I'm fine." Her expression conveyed disbelief. "Are you sure? Because if you want to talk..." "No." Mest disagreed a little too strongly. "I have to start packing." He left before she could press him any further and walked back to his room, knowing that if he had stayed the truth might slip out. It wasn't the right time. Or at least, that's what he told himself. It was his mantra and he held onto it every time he came close to telling her. Would it ever be, he wondered? Would he ever be ready to cross this line? Mest wasn't sure, but there was so much going on at the moment. The meeting with Fairy Tail, the situation with Makarov, the shaky alliance between Fiore and Alvarez which might soon break and lead to an devastating war. He shouldn't focus on his feelings when there was so much at stake and neither could he risk ruining their friendship when he needed her most. That was why, contrary to what he wanted, Mest decided to keep pretending for just a little longer.

[watcher-ofthe-sky]

A Gospel Whispered in Stolen Time

Written for Fairy Tail Rare Pairs Week 2020 by @ftguildevents Prompts: Distance + Longing [Read on AO3] Summary: Together they look glorious. Two crumpled pieces which don’t fit like a puzzle, rather a mosaic with jagged ends finding their places. But their lives are bound by the golden shackles, they both are all but clocks running on stolen time. When Erik kisses Jellal, he can taste the stardust; when Lucy kisses him, he can taste the ashes. It's a love which only burns. Pairings: Jellal x Erik (main), Erik x Lucy and Jellal x Erza ****

It’s when they are in each other’s arms, their lips writing sins on each other’s skins, that the miles between them stretch farther and farther.

A love that looks like two spots on a balloon—expansion of which will only pull them apart.

Ties loosened and buttons of the shirt worked up with a hunger whose desperation only fuels the desires more. Back arched on the bed, Jellal fists his hand in Erik’s hair who is nibbling on his skin.

Together they look glorious. Two crumpled pieces which don’t fit like a puzzle, rather a mosaic with jagged ends finding their places.

Their bodies are glistening with sweat and desire and the pure rush of adrenaline which comes of finally being there with each other.

“Look at me,” Erik whispers.

Jellal complies.

Their gaze set into each other and it’s then they think if this is why eyes are called windows to the soul. Because there is sadness tightening around their throats and a weight too heavy, pushing them down in its gravity.

They cry.

The tragedy is the time that they have to steal, because their love has made them into thieves.

If kisses could have healed wounds, their hearts wouldn’t have been a battleground dripping red in places. If being together like this—with their limbs tangled into each other like they are one body—could have filled them like the drop of rain falling into a scorched pond, they would have been am ocean with raging waves.

With their foreheads pressed together, they have to write apologies to everyone. To each other. To themselves.

A lie which began one afternoon of heat and lust and an affection (which they wouldn’t admit then) which collided them together till they were shattered into fragments and then dust; the grains of their existence have now become almost one.

A lie which expanded and expanded till it turned to an inevitable love. They didn’t realise the distances slowly crawling and gnawing their way from the inside like worms.

The balloon is floating in the air.

And soon this love will be pricked by a reality they don’t want to live in.

The clothes are put on, and goodbyes are called out at the door. A chaste kiss that cannot wipe away the stinging tears is given.

“It’s might rain. Do you need an umbrella?” Jellal asks.

“I’ll be fine, thanks,” Erik replies and turns away to go home.

After only a block away, the clouds roar and soon they downpour. In the glow of the street lights, he could see it falling. And if it hadn’t been the sadness clutching him, he would have found the aesthetic pleasing.

He reaches home, and stares at his hand curled around his doorknob.

It’s a door that separates two worlds—the one he lives in and the one he wants to lives in.

He sighs and opens it.

“Welcome home, honey!” comes a chirpy voice from the room.

He thinks about the Heartfilia-Belserion nameplate on the wall outside.

Lucy walks towards him, her face glowing, and places are kiss on his cheek. “How was your day?”

Erik’s fingers tremble, the spot on his face almost burning a hole inside him. How different those lips feel than that of Jellal’s. He hates himself for thinking about it.

It’s a web of lies he has tangled himself in.

“It was good,” he finally manages to say.

“Yeah?” Lucy smiles. He hates the devotion and sincerity in her eyes. An honesty that feels like a slap on his face. “Me too. You wouldn’t believe what Natsu did toda—”

She begins to tell about her work and Erik falls into the familiar pattern of listening to it. He nods and provides input and smiles occasionally and does everything he can but gods; it is not enough.

It will never be enough.

Later after dinner when they are both in bed and she kisses him again, he kisses back. It feels like tasting ash.

It’s a love that only burns.

After she is asleep, he cries.

***

“How long will both of you keep lying?” Erza asks, brushing her hair in the mirror.

Jellal shuts his eyes. “I’m sorry.”  For everything.

“That’s fine,” Erza says. “Came for the sister stayed for the brother. It happens.”

Jellal looks at her, and an amused smile is playing on her lips.

He chuckles. “You’ll never let that one go.”

“It’s a classic.” Erza winks at him.

And although they are laughing, their minds are playing a three-year-old tragedy again. The union of Belserion-Fernandes clans was a grand celebration. Childhood friends to lovers was a dream people sighed after. Irene was pleased, so was Jellal’s father Mercphobia.

But things soon changed when Erik entered. A son of Erza’s distant uncle Acnologia, he was soon taken by Irene after his father’s death. Though he was raised on his estate, Irene took her upon herself to secure his bright future.

The marriage proposal to the Heartfilias who were an old friend was a perfect opportunity.

And then the duo power couples started getting together; parties, family meeting, business, etc.

That’s when the stars crashed and poured upon them like meteors. Although a beautiful sight—it can be lethal.

Stolen glances or two, admiration and awe; everything they write in the clichés of beginning romance.

They were magic together which trails in the stardust.

Erza noticed.

And Jellal has always been a bad liar.

It crushed her; which then crushed him.

He is spending the rest of his life trying to lift that weight.

“It’s okay,” she said to him one day. “I want you to be happy.”

And that’s what hurts the most.

While Erik could never bring himself to tell Lucy, in the fear of ripping her apart, Jellal and Erza decided to keep the pretence in the sake of their family names.

 ****

And so, while a girl walks in the hallway, relieved to finally get home and be in the loving arms of her husband; they both stealthily take some hours of the wicked time, put them in their pocket—too afraid of it slipping down—and wind a blind around the sun so that only the shy moon can witness their love.

And so, while another girl smirks in her cup, looking at the clock whose time has been stolen; in that darkness, their hands held together, their skins pressed against the other, they make a language whose words are the gospel they whisper to one another. 

**** [A/N]: Idk when did I become so invested in this pair that it is an endgame for me now.  Comments keep people going. Also, there aren't many people who ship this pair so you might as well review if you're reading it. It will make me happy.

[fairiesnova]

The Questioning Phase

This was written for @ft-wwtdp pride month event for the prompt: question. It’s late because it turned out longer than I expected. Also tagging @ceruleanshockwave for putting up with my minerzajane obsession and @fuckyeahft-poly-ships and @ftmlmages

Read on Ao3

The sunlight was blinding by the time they walked outside. Erza squinted up at the sky before reaching into a side pocket of her dress to pull out sunglasses. Jellal eyed that dress for the third time that morning. It was new, flashy in a way Erza wasn’t. It was one of the changes in her wardrobe he noticed over these last couple months. But if she wasn’t going to mention it he wasn’t going to ask.

People in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones after all.

Perhaps there was still some awkwardness after their brief dating attempt in high school ended in a disaster, but they always avoided the topic of dating on their weekly meetups. They spoke about their coursework, their favorite professors, about their families and mutual friends but never mentioning Erza’s roommates or Jellal’s new friends.

Or maybe there was another reason neither asked the other about romance and love.

Both had been avoiding talking about what happened early that morning.

“Oh hi,” A woman with white hair and a bright smile opened the door. “Are you lost?”

“I don’t think so. I’m looking for Erza.” This was the first time Jellal was going to Erza’s room to pick her up for their weekly coffee meetup. As soon as Erza’s name left his mouth the woman’s expression changed. Her smile dipped into a frown before changing into a neutral face. It was fast, but Jellal caught the movement. There was a tense silence as the girl stood unmoving in the doorway. That wasn’t broken until a different voice came from inside the room.

"I swear I told both of you bitches to stay out of my wardrobe but here I am missing clothes again." The voice was raised and angry. A few seconds later the sound of a door opening and feet stomping towards the doorway reached Jellal’s ears. Then a hiss rang throughout the room, “Turn around I know you hear me talking to you!”

The white-haired girl barely reacted. She merely turned her to look over her shoulder at the angry woman approaching them. As she got closer, Jellal could see she had jet-black strands of hair skewed wildly across her face and snarl on her lips. She was pretty, and terrifying. Erza must have really lucked out with roommates.

The white-haired girl looked the new-comer up and down and snorted. “Go put some pants on, we have a guest.”

“Oh, shut the fuck up.” She scowled before looking towards Jellal. “Who the hell is he?”

The first girl gave her a knowing looked as she answers, “Oh, he says he’s here for Erza.”

Suddenly the temperature in the room dropped and Jellal felt like a deer thrown into the den of lions. He coughed awkwardly hoping to clear the air in the room. “Uh-yeah I’m here to-can I come in?”

The dark-haired girl slivered up to him and gave a wide taunting smile. “I don’t know, can you?”

Given the tone she spoke and that deadly sharp smile, Jellal was pretty sure that was a threat.

Then, like an angel appearing from the shadow’s, Erza came from one of the empty rooms with a smile on her face. She bumped both of the girls out of the way and wrapped Jellal into a hug. Jellal couldn’t tell if she was oblivious to the tense atmosphere or purposely ignoring the two woman glaring into the back of his head. Erza started to quickly lead them out of the door whispering something he couldn’t hear under her breath. Before they stepped out, Jellal could hear the white-haired girl turning to the black-haired one and saying, “guess you found your dress Minny.”

She had gestured to the pretty blue dress Erza was wearing currently. In another time, maybe Jellal would ask. He would ask about why the two woman seemed way more possessive of Erza then your normal roommate situations. Would ask if they were the reasons behind the perk in Erza’s walk or the smiles that come onto her face. Would ask if Erza had ever been the situation that he was in currently. But he didn’t, couldn’t voice the words in his head. And she didn’t offer. So, they hugged goodbye as always with Jellal ignoring the scents of three different perfumes sinking into his clothes. He went home in a daze, so lost in his thoughts that he almost missed his front door being ajar.

Some time ago, this would worry him.

Now he just rolls his eyes at his roommates’ lack of manners.

Jellal walked into his home already knowing what he was going to find. Sure enough, Gajeel lounged on his sofa with his feet up on his coffee table. He could hear Laxus calling out a greeting to him in the kitchen while Gajeel barely looked up from the tv screen.

“Haven’t I told both of you to ask before barging into my home?” As soon as the words left his lips Jellal winced. He sounded just like Erza’s dark-haired roommate. Well at least he didn’t have to worry about them stealing his clothes.

His wince however caught Gajeel’s attention. He paused his movie to frown up at Jellal, “What’s with you? Have a bad date?”

“They aren’t dates. You know that.”

“They’re dates.” Laxus came out of the kitchen with three water bottles tossing one to Jellal and Gajeel before collapsing next to the man on the sofa. Gajeel’s arm automatically lifted to curve around Laxus’ shoulder as they both stared at Jellal expectantly. Jellal stayed focused on that hand.

He had never given much thought to love and romance over the years. Him and Erza didn’t work out, he moved on quite easily. He always figured he’d just met some other girl somewhere down the road and settle down with marriage and a family like his father.

Then he met Laxus.

They were grouped together for a project and bonding over shit-talking their professor and annoying kids in their class. He had heard Laxus mention his partner more than once but had assumed he was referring to a partner on another project. And to be fair, Gajeel and Laxus did not act like any other couple he knew. The first time he hung out with them they bickered for 2 hours over what to cook for dinner and nearly burnt his kitchen down. It wasn’t until they were stuffing their faces with the pizza he ended up ordering that Laxus had sat down and Gajeel immediately plopped down in his lap. Like it was second nature, Laxus just wrapped an arm around his waist and pressed a greased kiss to the back of his neck.

It was like entry into another world, and even now 2 months later, he still feels breathless every time they exchange intimacy around him. He was drawn to them like a moth to a flame slowly daring to get closer and closer each time but withdrawing right before he could get burnt.

He wanted them. Wanted that. But want was still a feeling Jellal was getting used to.

Slowly his emotions, Jellal turned his eyes away from his own personal flames and towards the tv keeping them there as he spoke, “They are not dates. And I get the feeling Erza’s roommates would plot to kill me if they were.” He paused to sip his water before continuing, “They’re…close.”

Both men’s eyebrows went up as they registered what Jellal was hinting. “Oh, good for her.” Laxus shrugged.

“Is this a I just found out my ex-girlfriend might be gay conversation? I’ve had one of those.”

Jellal ignored them both leading Laxus to watch him closely. “Does that bother you?”

“No.” He answered honestly. “I’m just…confused.”

He had known Erza for half of their young lives and he never knew she had attraction to girls just like he never knew he held attraction to guys. He wondered if Erza went through the confusing phase of questing his identity the way he did. Or was it easy for her? Did she breeze through her realization and Jellal was the only one feeling this lost?

Before he could spiral anymore in his thoughts, a calloused hand tugged on his wrist. He looked into Gajeel’s dark eyes seeing the understanding laced through them. “We told you before, everyone moves at their own pace. It’s okay to be confused.” He tugged once more and Jellal went willingly into their embrace. His couch was not designed for three grown men, but they fit perfectly. Jellal allowed himself to sink into Gajeel’s arm around his shoulder and Laxus’ around his waist. He would eventually talk to Erza, would hopefully be able to answer the question regarding his own sexuality, but for right now he was just going to enjoy being warmed by his flames.

[ft-dads-au]

She Was My Home

Home for the Holidays 2019 Prompt: Home A Collaboration by @mdelpin​ and @oryu404​ AO3 | FF.Net

August 2nd, 2020

Gray sat on the couch, watching the news on the TV while Lyon sat at the dining room table, preparing for a case he was presenting in court the following day. Aki sat next to his father, flipping through the pages of a board book, trying to repeat some of the words Gray had read to him earlier.

Gray couldn’t help but smile at the way his son’s legs didn’t even make it to the edge of the sofa.

“Hungwy, dada, pillaw hungwy,” Aki pointed at the page on his book, but Gray didn’t even have to look.

“That’s right, Aki! The caterpillar is hungry. What a smart boy you are!” Aki’s face lit up at the compliment, and he quickly turned the page wanting to impress his father some more.

Gray noticed the sad look on Aki’s face and quickly intervened, “Would you like me to read it to you again?”

Before he had even finished speaking, Aki had already climbed onto his lap eagerly and handed the book over. Gray could hear a chuckle and looked up to glare at Lyon.

“What? It just amazes me how good you are at this,” Lyon teased, getting up from the table and making his way into the kitchen to get a drink, “You never had any patience, but this suits you somehow.”

Gray resisted the urge to retort, going back to the book when his phone rang. Looking down at the caller ID, he saw it was his brother.

“Can you look at the pages for a little bit? Daddy needs to take this.”

“Kay, dada,” Gray kissed the top of Aki’s head, overcome by the cuteness of the voice before answering his phone. “Hey, what’s up?”

“Hi. Listen, I got a call from Gildarts a little while ago, seems that something’s up with Natsu. He wants to get a group together to meet at Fairy Tail.”

“That pink-haired guy? He’s annoying, pass.”

“Come on, Gray, part of being in this club is to help others through tough times.”

“He is a tough time,” Gray pointed out, his mind immediately going to all the times the two of them had butted heads.

“You know it wouldn’t hurt for you to go out more, make some friends.”

“I already have as many friends as I need, so if that’s all I’m gonna go now,” Gray replied, about to hang up when he felt Lyon grab the phone away from him.

“Hey Rogue, what’s going on?” Gray could only hear Lyon’s side of the conversation, but he knew the polite way he was responding did not bode well for him.

“Alright, tell Sting we’ll see him there,” Lyon paused for a moment before adding, “Got it, see you soon.”

Gray glared at his friend, “I had said no.”

“You always say no,”

“I don’t even like the guy.”

“Not the point. When you came here you said you wanted to start your life over, I don’t think you meant sitting in my living room day after day watching television. Live a little.”

“I was about to read to Aki,” Gray tried to use the Aki card as a last resort, but he should have known better because if there was one thing he hadn’t expected when he’d arrived in Magnolia it was that shy Aki would take so well to his Unka Lyon.

Lyon smiled at Aki, who immediately perked up. “Would you like for Uncle Lyon to read you that book while Daddy packs you a bag?”

“Unbelievable, ” Gray complained when Aki scrambled out of his lap and ran to Lyon. He knew when he was beaten, so after handing the book over, Gray headed to his room, figuring he might as well take a quick shower and change his clothes.

“Rogue and your mom are gonna watch the kids so we can meet up with Sting,” Lyon called out.

“Then why are you coming?”

“Insurance.”

Gray rolled his eyes, hating being treated like a child but also acknowledging he wouldn’t be going otherwise. Lyon was annoying, but he wasn’t wrong. It had been a long time since he went anywhere without Aki, especially anywhere meant for adults.

He looked through his closet, trying to think of what to wear. Most of his clothes were things he would have worn in Crocus, where he’d had an image to maintain. They seemed out of place for Magnolia, but he managed to find a pair of ripped jeans and a button-down shirt that looked more blue-collar than fashion staple. He grabbed the rest of the items he’d need and entered the bathroom.

Twenty minutes later, he was dressed and had added a few items to his usual baby bag. “Alright, let’s go.”

Aki had fallen asleep cuddled into Lyon, and Gray was surprised by how relaxed his friend looked. He’d probably make a great dad someday, Aki didn’t seem to like too many people, but he’d warmed up to Lyon very quickly.

They headed out of the house as quietly as they could, buckling Aki into the car seat and driving the short distance to his old home, where Sting and Rogue now lived.

0-0

“Hey, Erza, how’re you doing?” Sting asked awkwardly, never really knowing how to behave in front of Natsu’s rather stern-looking older sister.

“Sting,” Erza greeted, moving out of the way and gesturing him inside.

“Sting?” Natsu came out of the kitchen with Atlas, his two-year-old son, toddling behind him. “What are you doing here?”

“Oh, you know, Rogue wanted to spend some time catching up with his mom, so I, uhm, came over to see if you wanted to have dinner with me.” Sting tried to make his smile seem sincere, but even he knew he was acting strangely. He was a terrible liar, always had been.

Natsu immediately turned his attention towards his sister, searching her face before looking back at Sting.

“I see, well tonight’s actually not a good night for me, maybe another time?”

“Nonsense,” Erza chirped, grabbing Natsu’s scarf from where it was hanging on a peg by the door and handing it to him. “It’s a lovely night, and the kids will be going to bed soon. I can handle things here. Go eat, have some cake, you deserve it!”

Sting had a feeling he knew what this might be about, and he wondered if it was a good idea to force Natsu to come out when he clearly didn’t want to. But he’d promised Rogue he’d try and the truth was Natsu was one of the few people he counted as a friend. If he could do something to ease his burden a little, he would try his best.

“Yeah, the truth is you’d be doing me a favor,” Sting flashed a smile at Natsu, “I hate eating alone.”

Natsu looked decidedly unhappy about the situation, but he wrapped the scarf around his neck without putting up any fuss, clearly knowing when he was beaten. Atlas, who had been holding on to his father’s leg during the whole exchange, peeked out and recognizing Sting transferred his leg grip to him, chubby cheeks stretched into an infectious grin much like his father’s on a good day.

Sting found himself looking down and grinning in return. He offered his arms, and Atlas quickly let go of his leg and grabbed on so he could be picked up.

“Cookie Monster! How’s your head doing, still closed?” He pretended to check Atlas’ head wound as he always did. “Yep, it looks like I get to keep my job for another day.”

Atlas giggled, and Sting ruffled his hair gently, giving him a quick hug before setting him down. He could see Natsu relaxing a little at the exchange and waited patiently as his friend said goodbye to Atlas and yelled out a goodbye to Hana.

Minutes later, they were on their way, Sting driving them to Fairy Tail, where they were supposed to meet the others later.

“You didn’t have to do this, I really am fine.”

Sting tried to seem like he had no idea what Natsu meant but decided against it. “Don’t worry so much, this is great! I rarely get to go out with friends. My life is pretty much hospital, and Rogue and kids, which you know is great but,” Sting realized what he’d said and felt like an asshole.

“You don’t have to watch what you say around me.” Natsu sighed, “ This is why I don’t like telling people about… about what happened,” Natsu managed to get out, “Let’s just eat.”

“Is there something about today, or are you just having a bad day?”

Natsu remained silent until they arrived at the bar, waiting until Sting had parked the car to respond, “It’s her birthday.”

He opened the door of the car and got out, while Sting stayed a moment longer, having no idea what to do or say to make his friend feel better.

0-0

Gray and Lyon arrived at Fairy Tail around eight o'clock. The bar was relatively empty, which was not entirely surprising, considering it was a Sunday night. They looked around, not sure who was coming until they heard Gildarts’ distinctive laugh originating from a table in the back. They made their way over to him, finding him surrounded by a bevy of women who all seemed to be hanging on to his every word.

Gray cringed, the reconciliation talks between Gildarts and his father must not be going well. He honestly wasn’t sure who to feel sorry for at this point. He’d have to have a chat with Cana sometime soon. She always seemed to have more info on what was going on between their fathers.

Silver had been incredibly tight-lipped on the matter, outside of finally admitting what Gray had suspected for years. His father and Gildarts had been in a serious relationship a long time ago. One which Silver had dissolved because he’d wanted a family, which even Gray had to acknowledge was a shitty thing to do.

Gildarts greeted them warmly, dismissing his ladies with an apologetic smile.

“Care to tell me what I’m doing here?” Gray grumbled into the drink that had miraculously appeared in front of him.

“What do you mean? I asked all of Natsu’s friends to be here.”

“I am not Natsu’s friend, Gildarts, in case you haven’t noticed I barely tolerate the guy.”

Gildarts gave Gray a look he didn’t quite understand but immediately irritated him, causing Lyon to snort beside him. “Well, let’s just say he makes you come alive, so maybe you can return the favor.”

“And what exactly is wrong?”

Gildarts blinked at him, “It’s not my place to say, but his sister was very worried about him, so here we are. It’s what we do in this club, Sport, we support each other. Today it’s for him, tomorrow it might be for you.”

“And when are we having one for you?” Gray challenged, and although he knew he was kind of being an asshole, he was honestly concerned.

“That’s different, that topic is off the table, especially with you and the Half-Pint.” Gildarts took a drink from his beer, ordering another round before any of them had a chance to finish the one in front of them.

“Who else is coming?” Lyon asked, wanting to steer the conversation towards safer topics.

“Macao, Loke, and Sting and Natsu, I think.”

“Loke?” Lyon groaned, which cheered Gray up considerably.

“What’s wrong with Loke?” Gildarts raised an eyebrow.

“Nevermind, you would like him, he’s like a junior version of you.” Lyon frowned as he took a swig of his beer, “So what are we supposed to do exactly?”

“This friendship thing is a new concept for you two, huh? Just talk to the kid, get his mind off whatever’s bothering him and listen to him if he feels like talking. It’s not rocket science, you know.”

Gray could only think that in his experience, rocket science was much more straightforward.

0-0

Natsu and Sting were led to a table where they proceeded to hide behind two large menus.

“So, what’s good here?” Sting asked, mostly to make some sort of conversation but also because the last time he’d eaten at Fairy Tail had been some time in medical school.

“I don’t know, just about everything, I guess, Mira’s a pretty good cook,” Natsu shrugged disinterestedly.

Sting bit his lip, trying to figure out how to bring up the topic, “Uhm, Mira is Lisanna’s older sister, isn’t she?”

Natsu fixed him with a glare, one that was most decidedly screaming back off. Still, he answered, “Yeah.”

Every question Sting asked from that point forward was deflected, and he didn’t know how to handle it. He wished Rogue were there since he was much better at getting to the heart of things than he was.

He texted Gildarts that they were upstairs, and it wasn’t going well. Gildarts advised him not to push more than Natsu was ready for, so they spent the rest of the meal talking about some of Sting’s more interesting cases at the hospital, which seemed to at least relax Natsu somewhat.

When dinner was over, Natsu insisted on paying since it was his fault that Sting had been forced to take him out, and after some initial resistance, Sting allowed it. He was desperate to get Natsu

downstairs, hoping the others would succeed where he had failed.

Natsu peered at Sting with a pleading expression, “Can we go now?”

Sting’s fingers danced underneath the table as he texted an SOS to Gildarts, glancing down quickly when he felt his phone vibrate.

Help is on the way…

Sting stifled the urge to facepalm as he heard the loud ring of Gildarts’ laughter coming up the stairs. If there was one thing Gildarts was not, it was subtle. He saw two heads of orange hair coming towards them, Gildarts sporting his usual grin, while Loke seemed to at least look a bit uncomfortable.

“Hey, Loke, are those Natsu and Sting over there?” Gildarts drawled and without even waiting for a response headed over to their table.

“Firefly, I didn’t know you ever went out for fun!” Gildarts hugged Natsu briefly, patting his back roughly before letting go.

“This is perfect, Macao just bailed on us,” Gildarts ran the fingers of his prosthetic hand through his hair, “Something about Romeo, wasn’t really paying attention. But here you are, and you should have a drink with us!”

Natsu’s eyes widened the moment he recognized Gildarts, and he examined Sting’s guilty expression for a moment before sighing, “Just how many people did my sister call?”

“I’m sorry, she’s worried about you. We all are.”

“There’s nothing to worry about, I’m getting everything done that needs to get done.”

“Look, kid, we know you miss her, it would be a miracle if you didn’t, but you have to keep going too. Not just for your kids but for you.”

“If I have a drink with you guys, will you let it go? Just tell Erza you talked to me, and I was fine.” Natsu’s eyes implored all of them.

“Sure, let’s go downstairs, okay?” Loke grabbed Natsu by the arm and tugged him towards the stairs, and Natsu followed docilely enough.

“Are you sure we’re doing the right thing?” Sting prodded Gildarts as they followed, “He seriously doesn’t want to talk about this.”

“He has to some time. Otherwise, he’ll never begin to grieve properly.”

“I dunno–”

“You’re going to have to trust me on this one.”

0-0

Gray watched as Loke brought Natsu downstairs with Sting and Gildarts following closely behind. He studied Natsu’s expression for any hint as to why they were here, wanting to get this over with as quickly as possible.

Green eyes that were typically blazing with life now appeared dull, and that stupid grin was nowhere to be seen. Sure, Gray had to admit that Natsu looked heartbroken, but so what? He guessed that they had all been there at least once in their life. Was this seriously the reason for Gildarts to round them all up for a night at the bar?

He didn’t like going out anymore, even with people he trusted, it just made him feel too exposed. If the wrong person recognized him, it would be all over social media. Gray knew it was only a matter of time before Siegrain found out where he was, but if he managed to find him before he was ready, things could get complicated. He’d only managed to hide this long by not touching any of his money or credit cards since he’d left, only using the money he’d managed to sneak in Aki’s savings account.

He was more concerned about what could happen if Siegrain decided to try to take Aki away from him. Even the idea of joint custody was something Gray couldn’t stomach, already knowing that Siegrain had no problem with hitting Aki, especially if he knew it would be the most effective way to hurt Gray.

Gray needed to give Lyon more time to find a way to keep Siegrain away from Aki permanently. These were real problems he needed to be working on rather than wasting his time trying to console some lovesick idiot. One that didn’t look like he wanted help at that.

He saw the exact moment Natsu noticed him, the man’s green eyes becoming even more guarded than they had been before, and Gray could feel his blood boiling. Why was he even here?

The fact of the matter was he didn’t particularly care for Natsu, and it was obvious the feeling was mutual, but he reminded himself he’d promised to behave and so he would try his best regardless.

However, he decided there was no harm in speeding things along, so when a waitress walked by, he ordered a round of shots for the table, and with a vindictive grin made sure to put them on Gildarts’ tab.

Lyon raised an eyebrow at his sudden fit of helpfulness but remained silent. It seemed Natsu worked as a bartender at Crime Sorciere, the bar Lyon frequented near his office, and his friend had taken a liking to him.

By the time Natsu reached the table, the shots were already lined up and waiting. He wrinkled his nose at the alcohol, and Gray made sure to down his quickly, staring at Natsu in silent challenge.

Natsu gazed at him for what felt like a long time before grabbing the shot and gulping it down, grimacing at the bitter taste of the alcohol.

The other men at the table tossed their shots back without effort. Gildarts immediately caught one of the waitresses’ attention with a small wave and his signature charming smile, ready to order another round. Sting was tapping out already, smiling apologetically at Loke, whose valiant attempts to fix him up with just one more round were in vain.

“I’d love to, but it’s not happening,” Sting sighed, “I’m choosing my battles very carefully.”

“Now that’s an interesting way of admitting that you’re whipped,” Loke quipped back at him with a smirk, using provocation to try and succeed where persuasion had failed.

“I’m not. Rogue is a bomb I’ve learned to defuse. But I’m driving both Natsu and myself back home later tonight, and I’m guessing you’ve never met Natsu’s sister? I don’t know how she’d feel about me potentially drunk driving her brother back home, and I’m not planning to find out either.”

Gray quickly drank the next shot, slamming the glass on the table as soon as he was done and waiting to see what Natsu would do. He seemed to vacillate for just a moment before copying him, but before Gray could say or do anything, he turned towards Sting and, for some reason Gray couldn’t even begin to understand Natsu’s dismissal bothered him.

Gray wanted to get out of this bar and back to Lyon’s house, why wasn’t Natsu cooperating?

“What’s going on over there?” Loke asked curiously, commenting on the tension between Natsu and Gray.

“I think Gray is about to work his magic,” Gildarts muttered, “If there is one thing the Fullbuster’s are good at, it’s their lack of patience, and they are easily irritated. Gray doesn’t want to be here any more than Natsu does. Sooner or later, he’s gonna say something to set Natsu off, and then… well, then I think we’ll finally get somewhere.”

“Wait, you’re saying you purposefully invited Gray here just to fuck with Natsu?” Lyon protested, “What happened to friendship and all that stuff you were saying earlier?”

“I mean it would be nice if they got along, but you’ve seen them,” Gildarts shrugged as he continued to drink, “Natsu is a powder keg that’s ready to explode, and Gray might just be the spark we need to get him to open up.”

0-0

Gray watched with dismay as the others tried to reach Natsu, asking him question after question which Natsu managed to deflect with almost admirable skill, but after about thirty minutes of this, Gray had had enough.

“For God’s sake Dragneel, why don’t you just tell them what they want to know so we can all get the hell out of here and go home?!”

As far as incendiary remarks went, this was pretty tame, he had much better ones stored in his arsenal, but to Gray’s surprise, he watched Natsu’s whole body recoil as if he’d wounded him deeply. Even worse, his eyes were welling up.

“You want to go home?” Natsu’s voice was so quiet that Gray had to strain to hear him, “That must be nice. I’d like to go home too, but I can’t do that. Not now, not ever again.”

“What are you talking about, didn’t Sting bring you from home?”

“That’s not my home. That’s just the house I live in with my sister,“ the tears had begun to flow, and although Gray didn’t understand how his innocent statement had led to this, he felt the beginnings of guilt, and he didn’t like it. What did he have to feel guilty about? Natsu was the one who was overreacting.

“What the hell could you possibly have to be so upset about, huh? Did your wife kick you out or something? Is that what this is all about?”

Natsu’s hands were clenching into fists, and Sting was moving towards the two of them only to be stopped by Gildarts grabbing on to his arm. Sting tried to shake him off, but Gildarts only shook his head and continued to watch. Lyon looked decidedly uncomfortable with the situation, but for the moment, he chose not to interfere.

“Gray, maybe you should back off,” Loke urged, eyes darting nervously between the two men.

“Don’t you talk about her,” instead of the yell everyone was expecting Natsu’s voice came out in a hoarse whisper. “You don’t know anything.”

“Of course I don’t, how can I, when you refuse to tell us anything?” Gray was being loud enough for both of them, and other bar patrons were beginning to take notice, “Fine, so if she didn’t leave you, then what the hell is the problem?”

“She was killed in an accident. Is that what you wanted to hear?” Natsu cried out, his voice gaining volume as he spoke, “She went out to the store to buy something like she’d done a thousand times before, and she never came back. She was my home,¨ Natsu managed before bursting into loud sobs, ¨She was sweet and beautiful and kind, and I loved her more than someone like you could ever understand.”

“No matter how bad of a day I had, just coming home to her could make it all better. And even though we never had any money, we were happy. We had each other, we didn’t need anything more.”

“She would have turned twenty-five today,” Natsu’s sobs had subsided, replaced by a voice that was too calm, “We should be dancing around the kitchen with Hana and Atlas. We should be laughing about the crappy cake I tried to make her, and singing along to the ridiculous pop songs she used to like. That was my home, Gray, and I can never go back.”

Gray could only stare in shock as words that he had never expected to come out of Natsu’s mouth filled his ears. He could almost feel the displeasure rolling off Lyon, and he knew he had no defense. He’d pushed too hard, as he always did when he lost his patience.

Natsu began to move along to the music that had started to play from the bar speakers at some point, and he mumbled, “I’m gonna go dance,” before walking off onto the dance floor and swaying unsteadily to the music, the shots he’d drunk earlier hampering his movements.

“I — I didn’t mean for that to happen, ” Gray glanced at Gildarts, expecting to see disappointment or anger, but the older man was only watching Natsu thoughtfully.

Lyon, however, was staring daggers at him. While Loke, who only a moment earlier had attempted to defuse the situation, stared into his drink, a faraway look plastered on his face.

“Are you satisfied?” Lyon growled and Gray wasn’t entirely sure whether it had been directed at him or at Gildarts but he responded regardless.

“I didn’t know,” Gray tried to explain, stopping as a thought crossed his mind.

“You knew his wife had died, didn’t you?” Gray glared at Sting, accusingly, “Why the hell didn’t you tell us?”

“Don’t blame him for this, “ Loke looked up from his glass, “He didn’t force you to go at him so hard.”

“He didn’t want anyone to know,” Sting revealed, wiping away the tears that were rolling down his cheeks, “He doesn’t want pity, and he doesn’t like to talk about it. He made me promise.”

“I met her a few times, she was lovely,” Sting added, watching as his friend continued to dance by himself, drawing more and more looks from others.

“Maybe I should take him ho-, uhm back to his house,” Sting corrected himself quickly before biting his bottom lip worriedly.

“No, first, Gray needs to fix the mess he made,” Lyon pointed out.

“What?! No way, it wasn’t even my idea to come here.”

“Gray look at him, is he really all that different from you?” Lyon insisted, “His pain might be different from yours, but it’s still pain.”

“Who’s brilliant idea was it to bring Natsu here today after I specifically gave him the day off?” A petite woman stormed towards their table. She was wearing a maroon dress with the bar’s logo etched on the half apron that was tied around her waist. Her contrasting white hair was put up in a ponytail.

“Oh shit, that’s Mirajane,” Sting turned around, trying to hide behind Loke, “What the hell is it with Natsu and terrifying women?”

“Gildarts?! I should have known,” she fumed, “How many times do I have to tell you, getting him drunk isn’t going to help. He just needs time,” Mirajane sighed as she looked out at the dance floor, “What happened? Someone said they heard Natsu yelling.”

All heads turned towards Gray, who could only protest once again, “I didn’t know.”

Mirajane squared her shoulders and walked her diminutive frame over to Gray, her eyes blazing with a fire that put the fear of God into him. She poked his chest with her index finger, eyes never leaving his face even though she had to strain her neck to do so, “I don’t know who you are, but if you don’t fix this I will make sure you never forget who I am,” she roared.

As he stepped onto the dance floor, Gray told himself he hadn’t allowed himself to be intimidated by a pint-sized woman, he was just taking responsibility for his actions. He did feel bad, he hadn’t actually meant to upset Natsu like that, and he certainly understood where the guy was coming from.

Gray was sort of homeless too. He’d been living with Lyon for months, it was the safest place for him and Aki. Lyon’s apartment was spacious, and it had excellent security, which given Lyon’s line of work was to be expected, but it wasn’t home. The house he had shared with Siegrain hadn’t been much of a home either. Not in the way Natsu described.

While he liked to think that he and Siegrain had been in love once, he didn’t really know if it was true. Gray had loved him, but now that it was all but over, he’d come to realize that Siegrain had never seen him as anything more than a meal ticket. He was in love with the money Gray made them, not with Gray.

Now that he was out from under Siegrain’s influence, Gray could see things clearly, could pinpoint moments in his career that had led to their relationship deepening. But he hadn’t been able to see it then. He’d allowed himself to be manipulated time and time again because he thought Siergrain was showing him love, when in fact, all he’d been doing was caging him.

There was only one thing to come out of their marriage that Gray didn’t regret and that was Aki, and he would do anything within his power to keep his son away from his husband.

He remembered Natsu’s words as he talked about his wife and felt resentful. He’d never experienced a relationship that deep, and given how closed off he’d become, he doubted he ever would. His life centered around Aki, and that’s the way it would have to be.

Gray finally got close enough to Natsu to tap him on the shoulder. Natsu turned his head, and although Gray had expected animosity, the eyes that looked back at him were remarkably passive.

“Look, I’m sorry if I—”

"Dance with me,” Natsu’s voice was soft and pleading, but Gray was caught off guard.

Dance with him? Gray had found Natsu so annoying from their first meeting that outside of noting the distinct features, pink hair, green eyes, tanned skin, and average height, he’d never really paid attention to what he looked like. He had to grudgingly admit that had Natsu been able to keep his mouth shut, Gray might have found him attractive once upon a time.

“Dance?”

Natsu nodded, offering his hand out for Gray to take.

“I don’t know, I just wanted to apologize…”

“I know what you wanted, and I really don’t want to talk about it, can you just dance with me? I just want to pretend for a few minutes, please?”

“But I’m a guy.”

“I know,” Natsu almost managed a smile, “this way, I won’t feel like it’s cheating.”

“Natsu, she’s gone,” Gray wasn’t even sure what to say, the whole request perplexed him, ”You can’t cheat.”

“I said I don’t want to talk about it, remember? Are you going to dance with me or not?”

Gray figured he owed the guy that much for making him cry, besides it was just one dance. What could it really hurt? It’s not like he hadn’t danced with plenty of guys in his clubbing days.

“Fine.”

He hadn’t been expecting Natsu’s smile to be so disarming or his eyes to be so bright, causing slight flutters to his stomach. Still, Gray stubbornly ignored all the telltale signs of beginning infatuation, allowing himself to be led across the room and almost rolling his eyes as a slow song began to play with nearly cliched precision.

He thought about protesting. It was bad enough to know that Natsu was pretending he was a woman, but then he thought once again. What could it really hurt?

So they danced, and it turned out Natsu wasn’t so bad, his movements were fluid and graceful as he put his arms around Gray and moved them to the beat of the music, a stark contrast to his earlier movements.

Gray remained silent, not wanting to break the spell of whatever it was Natsu was trying to accomplish. Dancing with Natsu was different than with Siegrain, even though he knew the man was pretending his eyes never left Gray’s face. His features softening into a smile that was both sad and endearing.

Siegrain’s eyes had always darted around whenever they had danced in public, as if he were on the lookout for someone better, which given the things Gray had found out about was probably exactly what he’d been doing. They would never have danced in their kitchen for fun, he couldn’t even remember the last time they had genuinely laughed together.

And suddenly, Gray found he was the one pretending. He pretended that Natsu was looking at him that way because he liked him. That he was actually loved deeply by someone rather than kept as a trophy. But instead of giving him any solace, it made Gray feel that much worse because try as he might, he knew it wasn’t real. But he wished it was.

He could lie to others, but he couldn’t lie to himself. He did want this with somebody. More than anything, Gray wanted to be loved for who he was, but he’d begun to believe that he was no longer worthy of it. That he would forever be tainted by all the bad decisions he’d made.

The song ended before he was ready, and he almost protested when Natsu let go, still offering that same smile.

“Thank y—”

Gray noticed Natsu’s eyes widen, and he turned to see what had gotten his attention. It was the scary woman from earlier, but Gray could see the change in Natsu, the tentative hope at seeing her, and though he had no idea what was happening, he felt a strange wave of disappointment come over him.

“Lis, is that you?”

Gray saw the raw pain on the woman’s face, which was swiftly replaced by pity, “No, Natsu honey, it’s me, Mira.”

But the pain Gray had seen on Mira’s face was nothing compared to what was revealed on Natsu’s upon realizing his illusion had shattered, “Oh, for a moment there I… I miss her, Mira.”

“I know, sweetheart,” Mira replied with a sad smile, “I do too. Come on, Sting is going to take you back to Erza’s, okay?”

Natsu nodded listlessly and made to follow her, stopping briefly to acknowledge Gray, who was still standing on the dance floor, awkwardly, “Thank you for the dance.”

“No problem.”

“Friends?” Natsu asked, holding out his hand for Gray to shake.

“Sure,” Gray replied, shaking his hand and acting like the last five minutes hadn’t meant anything to him. He had always been good at lying to others like that.

But as he watched Natsu walk back to their friends, he knew he was in trouble. For the briefest of instants, when Natsu had confused Mira for his wife, he had felt jealous of her. And he had no clue why.

A/N: This happens right before the events of Revelations. It’s sort of the beginning of Natsu and Gray’s journey in this world, which will be long and difficult.

[superfreakerz]

TDDUP 30

“Til Death Do Us Part”

Rated M for smut and heavy themes.

Reincarnation/Immortality AU

Summary: There are immortals and there are those who reincarnate, but it’s best to keep these things hidden. Lucy is attending college and meets Natsu, a boy with pink hair, a devilish smile, and a body that never ages.

TW: SUICIDE

Chapter 30

Trip Down Memory Lane

Lucy poured herself some hot chocolate, the liquid sloshing around in her mug as she carried it over to the dining room table. Setting the drink aside so that it could cool down, the girl opened her laptop, quickly signing into her email account.

Three days had passed since she had visited Fairy Tail's basement and learned the history behind reincarnation. Since then, she was wary of leaving the house. Natsu hadn't even visited her once, obviously aware of her mood- for which she was thankful for. All she wanted was to be alone for a bit.

Lucy knew her thoughts were crazy. She knew that her friends, despite their overbearing skepticism, were good people. She knew that they would never hurt her.

And yet, a shiver ran up her spine every time she thought of Acnologia's mindset, wondering if her friends just so happened to feel the same way.

Ever since she learned about the connection between reincarnates and immortals, she couldn't help but be on edge around them. They had already proven themselves to be prejudiced against mortals, could anyone blame her for being worried? And if it wasn't her friends that were plotting to kill her, then perhaps the other immortals in the basement were.

The thought left her terrified of leaving the house. But after three days, she was starting to go crazy without seeing anyone, especially Natsu. She was grateful that he was kind enough to give her space when she needed. He sent her good morning and goodnight texts, but other than that, he left her alone to mull over her thoughts.

"I should go see him today," Lucy thought, bringing the mug to her lips and sipping on the chocolatey goodness. "It's not his fault that other immortals went crazy."

Natsu had been there for her through everything. He was there when she was sad, he was there when she was stressing over finals, and he was there when nobody else believed her about reincarnation. Through thick and thin, he was the one always at her side.

"I'll go to Fairy Tail later."

The only way to get over her irrational fear was to just deal with it headon. She had to get to know the others and make sure that they weren't like Acnologia. That was the only way she could put her negative thoughts to rest. But first, she had something else to do.

Lucy opened her thread of emails with Yukino. After learning that Fairy Tail was an organization built to support mortals, she had asked Natsu on her way home from the pub if there were other places like it. To her surprise, there were quite a few all over Fiore. If Yukino was like her, then she was tired of being alone with her secrets. She needed a group of people she could talk to. People who would somewhat understand.

Luckily, she had found out that there was an organization in Crocus where Yukino lived. It was a popular pub named Sabertooth, which must've brought in a lot of money for the immortals it housed.

Lucy's fingers moved hastily as she typed out a long explanation. She made sure not to leave a single detail out. She went on about the existence of immortals, the organizations, and the history behind Acnologia so that Yukino could decide for herself if she wanted to associate with the immortals. After re-reading the email to make sure she didn't forget anything, she pressed send before shutting the laptop. Chugging down the rest of her hot chocolate, she heaved a long sigh. It was time to get ready.

After throwing on a sweater and some leggings, Lucy shoved her feet into some knee-high boots before grabbing her keys and heading out the door. With winter's chill among her, the wind broke through the fabric of her sweater and chilled her to the bone. Quickening her pace, the girl practically jogged the rest of the way to Fairy Tail.

Once she arrived, she looked up at the grand double-doors. Her stomach churned, her fears of being around the immortals starting to kick in. Taking a deep breath, Lucy pictured Natsu's smiling face before swinging the doors open.

Heading over to the bar, she gave an uneasy smile to the familiar, purple-haired waitress, Kinana. She had learned from Natsu that she was also an immortal.

"Hi. Can I go see Natsu?" Lucy asked.

Kinana nodded, giving her a smile that helped calm her nerves. "Of course. You know where to find him."

Lucy thanked the other girl before stepping behind the counter and heading down the steps to the basement. Reaching the bottom, she nervously scanned the lounge for any of her friends. To her surprise, it was empty.

"Lucy?" a familiar voice called out. Turning to her left, she found Cana- the brunette who offered her a drink last time- sitting at the bar. The same bartender from before, the pretty silver-haired girl, was also there.

"Oh, uhh, hi," Lucy said with a small wave.

"Whatcha doin' here?" Cana asked, her eyes darting towards Mira. The bartender's hand slid over her own neck. Cana could hear her breathing grow heavy. She wondered if her friend would ever be able to be in the same room as an immortal without feeling suffocated. She doubted it. The scars of an immortal may heal on the outside, but they never do on the inside.

"I'm looking for Natsu and the others," Lucy answered, wringing her arms together. "Do you know where they are?"

"They're probably all in their rooms. I'll take ya to Natsu's room. C'mon."

Lucy thanked the brunette and nodded her head in goodbye to the bartender. The silver-haired girl gave her a weak smile, one that didn't reach her beautiful blue orbs.

Following Cana down a narrow hallway, Lucy took in every detail she could. The hallway was lined with doors on both sides.

"I don't know if Natsu explained our living situation to you," Cana said, catching the blonde's attention.

"He hasn't," Lucy replied. She was glad Cana was explaining things to her as they went.

"Well, boys and girls are split up. Boys are on the left, girls on the right. We have to share our rooms because there's limited space. Though, Gajeel's lucky and doesn't have to share until a newcomer comes along. I share a room with Juvia." She stopped just outside a door. "Anyways, tours over. This is Natsu's room."

"Oh. Thank you, Cana. You've been really kind to me."

"Don't mention it," the other girl said, taking a swig of alcohol. Rubbing the back of her head, she continued, "And I'm sorry if I came off kinda on-edge the other night. I didn't know that you're sorta kinda like us."

"Don't worry. Like I said, you've been really kind to me!"

With a smile, Lucy waved to the brunette before knocking on Natsu's door. In seconds, it swung open to reveal Gray, only in his boxers.

"Lucy?" he said.

"Did you say Lucy!?"

In the blink of an eye, Gray was shoved to the side, Natsu pushing his way to see her. Lucy giggled at his excitement, though a twinge of guilt ebbed at her knowing that he was only so excited to see her because she had been avoiding him the past few days.

"Hi, Natsu," she greeted.

"W-What are you doing here?" Natsu asked, his mouth parted. He wasn't expecting to see her so soon. After everything they learned, he figured she would never set foot in the home of the immortals again.

Lucy nudged him. "What? I'm not allowed to visit my boyfriend? You invite yourself into my home, it's time to return the favor."

Walking past him, Lucy studied the room, her cheeks dusted pink. It was her first time in a boy's room before. To her surprise, the place was a lot cleaner than she'd expect considering it was Natsu's. There were two beds pushed on opposite corners of the room. On one half of the room, there were band posters tacked to the wall and random mementos and picture frames. It was easy to tell it was Natsu's side. On the other side were only a couple of pictures of Gray and Juvia and people who resembled Gray. She had a feeling it was his family.

"So this is where you live," Lucy said, making her way to his bed. Plopping onto it, she grinned at her boyfriend. "It's a lot cleaner than I thought it would be."

"That's because of Erza," Natsu replied, a shiver running down his back. "She does random room checks to make sure everyone's rooms are in order. If they aren't…"

"I think I have a feeling what happens."

Lucy glanced at Natsu's nightstand, finding picture frames sitting on top. Grabbing one, a wide smile settled over her face as she quickly recognized it. It was the first picture they took together downtown, the one that she had set as his contact photo. She never knew that he had it printed out and framed by his bed.

Gently placing the picture frame back, she picked up another. This one was full of the Fairy Tail immortals, along with Makarov. There was also a young girl standing in the front, her hair long enough to reach her ankles and falling in blonde waves. Lucy couldn't recognize her.

"That's Mavis," Natsu said, following her gaze. "She's the one that made Fairy Tail!"

"And one of the oldest known immortals, right?"

"Yep! I'm sure you'll meet her one day!"

"I hope so." Lucy placed the frame back, grabbing the last one from the nightstand. It was one of Natsu when he was younger, in his teens it appeared. His hair was a bit shorter back then and his face had some more weight to it, but it was the same Natsu she knew and loved. Next to him was a man with red hair darker than Erza's. His eyes were a light brown, almost appearing golden in the sun.

"That's my dad," Natsu said, a small smile gracing his face. His hand tugged on the ends of his scarf.

"I can tell just from this picture how great of a father he was," Lucy replied. She reached out towards him and gave his hand a gentle squeeze.

"Yeah, he was."

"Did he know that you're an immortal?"

"Nah, he died before I even found out. What about you? Does your dad know that you reincarnate?"

"Oh hell no," Lucy replied quickly, shaking her head. "None of my parents in any lifetime know that I reincarnate."

Natsu cocked his head to the side. "How many parents have you had?"

"I'm on my fourth lifetime, so four different sets."

A wide grin settled over the boy's face. "I still can't believe you reincarnate! That's crazy!"

"I can't believe it either," Gray said from over on his bed. Admittedly, Lucy had forgotten he was there.

"You're telling me. I still can't believe you guys are immortal! I have had so many questions floating around in my head ever since I found out!" Lucy exclaimed.

"Then ask away. I promised I would answer all of your questions the night Natsu was shot," Gray replied.

Natsu jumped up from the bed. "Let me go get everyone first! I know they all wanna see you. Especially Levy. She's been mopin' around the past three days."

"Oh like you haven't been?" Gray teased.

Natsu glared at him before heading out the room to gather the rest of the immortals. Meanwhile, Gray turned his attention back towards Lucy.

"So, how ya holdin' up?" he asked.

"What do you mean?"

"Well, you've been avoiding us ever since you found out about Acnologia. I take it you're scared?"

"Can you blame me?"

"Nah, I can't. But don't worry, we won't let that happen to you."

The corners of Lucy's lips tugged upwards into a smile. "Yeah, I know. Thank you."

Gray opened his mouth to reply when suddenly, a flash of blue crossed Lucy's face and she found herself tackled back onto the bed. She didn't have to lift her head to know who it was clutching at her as if life depended on it.

"Hi, Levy-chan," Lucy greeted, smoothing a hand over the other girl's head.

"I missed you, Lu-chan! You didn't return any of my texts!" Levy replied, lifting herself off the blonde so that she could get up.

"Yeah, I know. A lot of stuff was on my mind. But I'm here now, right?"

"Right!"

Lucy glanced towards the door as she heard Natsu and the others stepping inside. She was surprised to find Cana and Mira among them.

"Heard you wanna learn about the immortals," Cana said, leaning against the wall beside Mira. "That's good, 'cos I wanna know about reincarnation. Ask away!"

Lucy cupped her chin in thought. She had so many questions she wanted to ask, but now that she was put on the spot, she was having trouble remembering all of them.

"Oh, okay," she said as one question popped into her head. "Were you guys always immortal? Or did you do some ritual?"

"Believe me, nobody would do a ritual for this curse if they knew what it meant," Cana answered. "Really, nobody knows the real answer. At the beginning of our lives, we grew and aged, so maybe we weren't an immortal then. Or, maybe we were born immortal and it just didn't kick in until our death day. Nobody knows for sure."

"Death day? What's that?"

Levy chimed in, "It's the approximate age in which we assume we stopped aging. So for us, our death day is in our early twenties. For our first Master, Mavis, she stopped aging in her mid-teens, so that's when her death day is."

Lucy's mouth parted as she took in the information. She was horrified while learning about reincarnation, but the lore of immortality was interesting.

"So if Cana is the oldest of all you, who is the youngest?"

"That would be me," Levy answered with a laugh. "It goes Cana, Gray, Erza and Jellal, Gajeel, Juvia, Natsu, Mira, then me."

Lucy gave a smug grin, playfully nudging Natsu. "Aww, you're one of the babies of the group!"

He crossed his arms with a glare. "Shut up."

A laugh bubbled up to her lips before she returned her attention to Levy. "So, how did you guys find out about Fairy Tail?"

"We were all recruited," Levy answered. "Last time you were here, Master brought up that there are government officials affiliated with immortals. Their presence is top secret and only known by higher-ups. They are how organizations like Fairy Tail exist, and they're also the reason immortals get a small allowance from the government. Beyond that, they also do extensive research to find more immortals. There have been times when they found out who was immortal before the immortal themself was fully aware."

"That happened with me," Natsu added. "I knew somethin' was up, but I didn't know it was immortality until Gramps found me and told me about it."

"Exactly. So, the affiliates send us the information on the immortal and we go recruit them. That, or we somehow stumble upon them ourselves." Lucy nodded slowly, still trying to process everything. It was a lot to take in. Recruitment, government affiliates, immortality. Who knew all of this was happening and the rest of the world had no idea?

There was one question left that was still bugging Lucy, but she didn't know if it was insensitive to ask.

"You want to ask us something, don't you?" Erza asked, a knowing smile planted on her face. "I can see the curiosity written all over your face."

Lucy rubbed the back of her head with an awkward chuckle. "Oh, yeah. But it's okay! I don't need to know!"

"No, no, c'mon," Gray insisted. "I said I would answer your questions. What is it?"

"Well, I guess I was just wondering if there was an extent to your immortality. Like, what happens if an immortal cuts off their own head?"

A shiver ran up the group's spines just picturing it.

"Well, believe it or not, that sort of thing has happened many times," Jellal answered for the group. "Most immortals discovering their immortality get curious to see the limits. Or sometimes, they really want their life to end so that they can be reunited with the loved ones they lost throughout the years. Either way, there is always an experimentation phase. Whether it is a simple prick on the finger or decapitation, people are always trying to figure it out. I don't think you really want to know what happens if someone cuts off their own head, but I can assure you that they will live."

"You wanna see it?" Natsu asked.

Lucy whipped her head towards the boy. "What?"

"Do you wanna see it?" he repeated as if it were normal. "The healing process, I mean."

Without waiting for her to answer, he grabbed his lighter. He held his hand out in front of him, the fire dancing just below his fingertips. Keeping his eyes trained on Lucy, he slowly moved the fire up to his hand, allowing it to wash over his skin. At first it didn't hurt. It was a comforting warmth that he had gotten used to over the many accidents he had playing with fire. But ten seconds in, the warmth turned to scorching pain.

Lucy's hands flew up to her mouth as she forced herself to watch. Natsu's fingertips were blackened by the fire. Glancing up at him, she found tears in the corners of his eyes. The hand he used to hold the lighter was trembling.

"O-Okay! I get it, you can stop now, Natsu!" Lucy said, snatching the lighter away from him. Jellal's explanation of the experimentation phase that immortals went through rang in Lucy's mind. She had a feeling that fire was how Natsu proved his immortality to himself.

"Watch," Natsu said, holding his damaged fingers in front of Lucy's face. His skin was cracked and raw, but within seconds, the regeneration began.

Lucy gasped as the cracks in Natsu's fingers began to smoothen out and the normal color in his fingers returned. It was a much faster process than when Natsu was shot. It must've been because his body had to reject the bullet before it could start healing.

"See?" Natsu said, a wide grin on his face as he shook his fully-healed hand.

Lucy slapped him upside the head. "Yes, I see it! Don't do that again! Even though I know you can heal, I still don't like seeing you hurt!"

Natsu nodded, but the smile on his face remained. It felt nice showing Lucy all of this, and telling her about immortality. As close as he was to Lucy before, it was nowhere near how close he felt to her now. It was like he could finally open up completely to her.

Lucy smiled, her eyes glazing over her friends. It felt nice to hang out with them again. There weren't any secrets or lies, just people hanging out.

Her gaze then landed on Mira. The girl hadn't said a thing since coming into the room. Her lips were pulled into a small smile, but it didn't reach her eyes. As if feeling her stare, Mira glanced at her.

And that was when Lucy finally saw it.

Horror etched the other girl's face in the second that they shared eye contact before Mira pointed her gaze at the floor and brought a shaky hand up to her neck. She was scared of her. But why?

"Enough about all this crap," Gajeel said, catching her attention. "It's your turn to explain reincarnation."

"Yes!" Levy exclaimed. "I've been dying to ask you about it!"

Lucy shrugged. "Okay. Then ask away!"

Immediately, they all voiced the same question.

"What's death like?"

Clearly it was something on their mind considering it was something they couldn't experience no matter how hard they tried. Hell, even normal mortals wondered what death was like.

Lucy shrugged again. "I don't know what it's like for normal mortals, but for me, there's not much to discuss. There's no pearly white gates of Heaven or walking around as a ghost. There's the event that causes death, a moment where everything goes black, and then a flash of bright light as I'm being reborn in a hospital room."

"And you retain all of your memories?" Erza questioned.

"Yep. Which is what makes it horrible."

"Horrible?" Gajeel asked. "Hell, reincarnating sounds like a walk in the park compared to immortality! You get to die and be reborn with a fresh start every time! It's easy!"

Lucy's hands fumbled with the hem of her sweater. "I wouldn't say it's easy… Think of it this way. You're a normal kid in a loving family. You have lots of friends, a nice job lined up, and then all of the sudden you die."

"Still sounds better than having to live forever and watching your family die."

"Okay, well imagine being reborn into a new family. You have no idea what's going on, you have no idea who these people are, all you know is that you can't stop thinking about your old family. You wonder what happened. You look them up and find out that they're still alive, but you can't do anything about it because you're born in the same body every time. Everyone would recognize you and probably burn you at the stake. So, you're stuck in a house of strangers that are supposed to be your parents. Except they aren't. Not to you. You can't love them the way you're supposed to because you feel like you're betraying your first family."

Natsu's brows twitched upwards, his eyes narrowing in thought. There was something about those words that seemed so familiar. His eyes darted to Lucy's hands, which were balled into tight fists trembling in her lap. Then it hit him.

"Is that what you were talking about that time at your apartment?" Natsu asked.

Lucy faced him, tilting her head innocently to the side. "When?"

"The first time we came over. We were playing truth or dare and Gajeel asked you what the worst thing you ever did was. You said you isolated yourself from your parents and your mom got sick."

Lucy took a sharp breath, the memories of her second life playing in her head. "Oh. Yeah. That's what happened with my second set of parents. After that, I felt so bad that I at least tried to pretend to love them."

Gajeel scratched the back of his head. "I guess when you put it that way, reincarnation ain't all that fun either."

Lucy shook her head, a dry laugh escaping her lips. "No, no it isn't. But that's why I'm glad I met you guys. You might not understand reincarnation, and I might not understand immortality, but we all know what it's like trying to hide who you are from everyone else. And I am so tired of hiding it."

Levy wrapped her arms around the blonde. A warm smile graced her face as she said, "You'll never have to hide around us anymore!"

As the group went silent, Lucy thought that the questioning was over. That is, until Cana spoke.

"I have a question," the brunette stated. "You don't hafta answer or anything, I was just kinda curious."

"What is it?" Lucy asked.

"You said that you're on your fourth lifetime right now, so that means you've died three times. How did you die?"

Lucy's stomach immediately dropped to the floor as panic washed over her. She really should've known that someone was going to ask that question. Who wouldn't?

Swallowing thickly, the girl tried to calm her nerves. Her stomach continued to do flips while her hands shook in her lap. It wasn't until a warm hand slid into hers that she was able to slow her breathing down to a steady pace.

Glancing up at Natsu, she found him staring right back at her, concern lacing his onyx orbs. She could tell by the look he was giving her that she didn't need to answer if she didn't want to. And yet, her mouth opened to speak.

"Well, two of the three were car accidents. I guess I wasn't the best driver," Lucy answered, followed by a weak chuckle. "That's why I'm not too big on driving anymore. In case you're wondering, it didn't hurt at all. It happened so fast that I didn't even know I died until I was born again."

"What about the other time?" Juvia asked.

Lucy's hand slowly moved up to her neck, softly grazing the sensitive skin as she recalled what happened. The memory was so vivid in her mind it was like it happened only yesterday.

She took a deep breath, followed by another. It was an innocent question. Lucy knew that. They were only curious, they didn't mean to bring up any bad memories.

"W-Well…" she choked out. Her throat tightened as if trying to snuff out the words that were on the tip of her tongue. "My second lifetime was kind of rough. It was my first time reincarnating. I was confused, angry… I told you how I felt about my parents and friends. I was alone. All I wanted was to forget the past that I couldn't have anymore." Hot tears pricked the backs of Lucy's eyes but she blinked them back. "I didn't want to be alive. I didn't want to be reincarnated. I just…"

A gasp caught Lucy's attention. Turning towards the source, she found Levy with her hands covering her mouth.

"Oh, Lu-chan��� Tell me you didn't." she whispered.

Lucy nodded weakly. "Yeah, I did. I figured that my reincarnation was a fluke. A one time mistake. I figured that if I died again, it would be for real this time. I got back home from school one day. I'd been planning it for a while. I don't know what made me choose that day specifically, but it seemed right. My parents were still at work. I went to my room, grabbed the rope that I stole from the shed, and... And tied it to the ceiling fan. I-I'm sure you can figure out how I died from there."

Her hands brushed against her neck again. It was like she could still feel the loose threads of the rope scratching her throat. She could still remember what it felt like when her lungs started to burn. She could remember kicking, trying to relieve some of her body's pain. And she could still remember when her eyes finally started to droop closed, the energy in her body drained as she dangled there alone before succumbing to the darkness.

Lucy kept her gaze trained on the bed. She could feel everyone's stares on her, but she ignored them, too scared to make eye contact. Her stomach was doing flips, and she felt like she could vomit at any second.

It wasn't until Gray cleared his throat that Lucy finally glanced up.

Cana rubbed the back of her head. "I'm sorry for makin' you relive that experience. It was insensitive of me to ask that."

Lucy shook her head. "No, don't worry. I know that you were just curious. I'm the one who made the mistake."

"Well… maybe we should take a break from all the questions," Gray said. "We've been sitting here for a while. And it's not like we don't have time to ask questions later."

"Gray's right," Erza agreed, nodding her head. She could see through his attempt at lightening the mood and wanted nothing more than to help. "Shall we go get some food?"

"You guys go ahead," Natsu said. "We'll catch up with you."

Lucy glanced towards the boy. His usual carefree grin was nowhere to be found, instead in its place a blank expression. Squirming uncomfortably in her seat, she watched as the rest of their friends filed out of the room, leaving them all alone.

At first, they just sat there. They didn't look at each other, they didn't say a word. Lucy stared at Natsu, waiting for him to speak. She could practically see the cogs turning in his head as he thought of what to say, as if choosing his words carefully. Finally, it seemed he found the words to say as he whipped his head towards her.

"I'm not gonna ask you about it," Natsu said, his expression serious. Gently squeezing her hand, he continued, "When you're ready to talk about it, I'm right here. But you should know I'm gonna spend the rest of eternity makin' sure that you never feel like you hafta do that again."

Lucy gave a weak chuckle. "Rest of eternity? Do I need to remind you you're an immortal? You'll actually be alive for the rest of eternity, so you probably shouldn't joke-"

"I mean it, Lucy. I'll be there the rest of eternity."

And just like that, the dam broke.

Hot tears welled in Lucy's eyes and spilled down her cheeks before she even had the chance to blink them back. Throwing herself against Natsu, she buried her face in his chest. She didn't know how loud she was as she wailed and she didn't care. All she cared about was holding Natsu close because she knew that in the many lifetimes to come, she would never find someone as important to her as Natsu was.

Natsu ran his fingers through her golden locks. Every strand felt like silk against his skin. With his other hand, he softly rubbed her back until she eventually stopped crying.

Sniffling, Lucy pulled away from him and wiped her face with the back of her sleeve.

"I love you, Natsu," she said, only able to muster up a whisper.

Natsu smiled down at her and wiped a stray tear from her face that she missed. "I love you too, Luce."

[ignitedbynatsu]

A Little More Faith

A/N: None of you would be able to read my works if it wasn’t for Grammarly 🤐 Anywayyy @exhaustedpotat0 I hope you like it ❤ Thank you again for the request and the support it really means a lot to me. My blog is blowing up recently and I can’t express how much everyone’s support means to me. 

Warnings: mention of injury, fighting with parents

Genre: Angst to fluff

⚡🤍⚡🤍⚡🤍⚡🤍⚡🤍⚡🤍⚡🤍⚡🤍⚡🤍⚡🤍⚡🤍⚡🤍⚡🤍⚡🤍⚡🤍⚡🤍⚡🤍⚡🤍

"I don't like this" Laxus grumbled as he watched his daughter laughing over something Natsu had said.

"It's just a job" Mira-Jane reassured him as a feeling of pride washed over her while looking at the girl in question. She was finally going to go on her first mission.

"I already don't like the idea of her leaving for a mission" he repeated "but for that mission to be with Natsu of all people? I don't stand behind this"

"Is dad being grumpy again?" A chuckled vibrated from (Y/N)'s chest as she gave her mother a kiss on the cheek as a way to say goodbye.

"I don't condone this" Laxus voiced his thoughts as the girl kissed him on the cheek as well.

"Well, that sounds like a you problem" she shrugged before rushing off, knowing he'd scold her for talking back if she didn't get out there quick "Bye mom and dad, I'll be back soon! Love you!"

Team Natsu followed soon behind, Natsu and Gray laughing at the pissed of Laxus while Erza reassured the couple she'll scold her in their place.

The younger girl was beaming with excitement as she finally left for her first-ever job. Even though Laxus was still mostly against it, Mira-Jane somehow managed to persuade him to let her go on her first mission at the age of 14.

That same excitement soon vanished as her hamstrings were slashed, making her unable to walk and crumble in pain to the floor, a blood-curdling scream leaving her lips soon after.

"(Y/N)!" Natsu was quick to jump in front of the younger mage, Gray following not even a second later. They shared an understanding nod to push their differences aside and protect the girl at all costs. "Lucy! Get her out of here!"

Lucy obeyed, summing Loke to grab her whilst fighting the enemies with Taurus. "Loke! Bring her to Wendy and protect her"

The celestial being understood the graveness of the situation and decided to bite his tongue instead of making his usual flirty remark towards his owner. "Let's go little one" he carefully picked her up while his eyes darted around, desperate to catch a glimpse of the dragon slayer. The moment he saw a hint of blue hair, he didn't hesitate for a second and ran over to her, all while carrying (Y/N) in his arms that was still crying out in pain.

"Wendy!" Loke called out to the said mage. With only a mere glance she understood what was going on. She finished off the opponent she was fighting with and ran towards the wounded girl.

She exclaimed the cut, a troubled expression clearly evident upon her features "there's not much I can do right here. I can stop the bleeding and relieve some pain, but her hamstrings are torn. I need my equipment at the guild to see how grave the injury is"

A new determination filled everyone as Wendy's words rang in their ears. They needed to handle this quickly. Every second could be one too many. In record time, they managed to fend off the last enemies.

Natsu took over from Loke, as Lucy had little to no energy left to keep the celestial being in this world. They got the first train home, not even sparing the price-money a single thought. The younger girl was their top priority right now. No money in the world could top that.

Laxus's eyes fell on the lifeless girl in Natsu's arms as soon as they set foot back into the guild. Freed and Bickslow quickly got up to stand in front of him as they saw the change in his demeanour. Their friend was completely engulfed in rage that was directed towards one man in particular and that was the man that was holding his gravely injured daughter. "Natsu" electricity was crackling over his body as he got closer and closer to the said mage.

"Laxus!" Mira-Jane narrowed her eyes at him as she stepped between the two dragon slayers "this is not the time. Wendy, please, heal her"

Wendy motioned Natsu, to follow her to the medical room, leaving the enraged Laxus and a worried Mira-Jane

There was a heavy, uncomfortable silence placed across the guild. Nobody dared to make a sound, afraid to tick the couple off as they waited in anticipation for Wendy to finish the surgery.

Laxus mind was swarmed with worst-case scenarios as his eyes were fixated on the door of the medical room. He was experiencing so much stress and frustration that he felt like punching a wall, no, he wanted to punch Natsu, but Mira-Jane was right. This was not the time, not right now.

Mira-Jane was busying herself downstairs with the dishes. Even though she had complete faith in Wendy, she also knew that if she were to be left alone with her thoughts for even a minute, she wouldn't be able to break free from them.

Minutes felt like hours and hours felt like years. But after nearly two hours, Wendy came out with a content smile plastered upon her face "she'll be fine. She just needs to wake up from her anaesthesia, but after that, she'll be back to normal."

It was like everyone could breathe again once those words filled their ears. She was okay. (Y/N) would be just fine.

After a couple more hours, the anaesthesia had completely worn off and (Y/N) was sitting up straight while Mira-Jane and Laxus stood on either side of her bed.

"I'm so glad you're okay" the eldest Strauss sibling mumbled as she kissed her daughter's head, a couple of tears fell from her eyes in relief.

"That's it. No more jobs for you" (Y/N) eyes shot up as she heard the stern words from her father "What? No! You can't do that"

"I can and I will. Don't you realize that you might have never been able to walk again?" He argued, but his daughter wasn't having it, both sharing the same short temper "It was just a scratch stop making a big deal out of it"

"I'm not having it. You're not allowed on jobs anymore and that's final" Laxus crossed his arms in front of him to show that he was done with the conversation.

(Y/N)'s eyes were swimming with rage at her father's stubbornness "stop treating me like a child!" "Then stop acting like one!"

"It's because you push me in that role!" She was certain that everyone downstairs in the guild could hear her, but she didn't care. If anything, she wanted them to hear how unreasonable her father was "I am the daughter of two of the strongest mages in Fairy Tail. You've been training me from the moment I could walk. Why can't you trust me?"

"Because you're clearly not ready for it" the blonde scoffed. He knew this discussion was long overdue, but that didn't mean he was going to back down easily. Not when his daughter was nearly disabled for life.

"It was an accident! Mom, please say something" she desperately pleaded for her mother to side with her and talk some sense into her father but when she didn't budge, the younger girl scoffed "you're both being hypocrites. How many times have you been laying on death's doorstep when you were around my age? I want you to leave. Now."

It was like the temperature changed along with the cold words that left her mouth. The toxic words left a bitter taste in everyone's mouth.

Laxus wanted to say something but stopped himself when Mira-Jane placed a hand on his bicep and shook her head softly no. She knew that their daughter was right. They were being a hypocrite, but how could they not when they saw their little girl in so much pain only a couple of hours ago?

"She's right you know" Erza confronted the parents once they softly closed the door behind them "It's definitely not fun, but it's part of the job. She's 14, you can't shield her away from the world forever. Sure, this wouldn't have happened if we all had been a little more on edge, but it happened. Mistakes are bound to be made, but we learn from them, and so will she"

"But she's our little girl" Mira-Jane sighed as her eyes lingered on the door where Wendy had just walked through again to check up on their daughter.

"I know, and I can't start to imagine how you two must've felt when you saw her like that, but she's also part of Fairy Tail. If you didn't trust her skills, you wouldn't have let her join" Erza pointed out. Both parents were quite as they took in every word the mage in front of them said "you both need to put a little more faith in her. If you don't, she'll start doing stuff behind your back, and you will drift apart."

The last words struck a nerve with Laxus. He knew how painful it was to lose his family. He vowed to never let that happen, to never make the mistake his father did. And yet he unconsciously was pushing her further away from him.

The white-haired mage took notice of the realization that dawned upon her husband "I think we need to apologize"

Laxus blindly followed his wife as they re-entered the room their daughter was laying in "I thought I told you to get out"

"Actually, we're here to apologize" Mira-Jane's signature kind smile was placed upon her lips.

Laxus sighed deeply as the eyes of the two women he loved most were staring at him in anticipation "we- no, I am really sorry for smothering you. I wanted to keep you close in an attempt to not go down the same path my father did, but by doing, so I realize I'm also pushing you further away from me, from us. I am really sorry. I never meant for that to happen"

"You're not pushing me away, nor do you need to compare yourself to that man. You're the best father I could've ever wished for and yeah sure you can be suffocating sometimes, but I know it's because you care about me" (Y/N) eyes softened at the revelation of her father's insecurities.

"You're allowed to go on missions from now on. Just promise us you'll be more careful next time" Mira-Jane pleaded to which their daughter placed a hand over her heart "I promise, now come here"

The three shared a hug, mending the cracks that had slowly started to form as if they were never there.

[jfangirld]

Promise - A Gruvia story for Big Bang Nalu Gruvia Event ----------------------------------------------

Promise - A Gruvia story

So this story is for the Nalu, Gruvia Big Bang Event. Thanks for this event ! I was in collaboration with @anime-top-arts, go and check her contribution ! ^^

Playlist: 

RM - forever rain

If Gray hated anything, it was to make a woman cry. Even more so when it was the one he loved. He had never seen Juvia in this state before. It was heartbreaking to see the girl he was in love with, devastated because of his behavior. 

“How can you leave Juvia alone?” she said sobbing. “Am I not good enough for you?!” 

Maybe he should have prepared her mentally. No, he was certain of his choice to not say anything until this moment. She would have begged him to go with him. He knew her too well. She was determined and brave, and that’s a reason why he loves her.

“Juvia, I can’t let you come with me. It’s dangerous... too dangerous.” Gray said looking at her while she winced.

“So, Juvia is not strong enough to go with you. Not strong enough to do a 100 years quest!?” She was not sad anymore, but rather she was… upset?

Seeing an upset Juvia was also brand new to him. How could she think horrible things like that?

“Juvia was an S class mage before, you know. She knows what it is, she is not dumb.” The girl added. 

This argument was going too far; way too far.

“I’m not saying that, Juvia,” He took her hand in his while he was looking at her. She was so beautiful. “I lost you once, I can’t lose you again. It’s too difficult. I prefer to know that you are safe with Gajeel and the others at the guild.”

Juvia blushed. Gray was never romantic like that. She loved this new side. 

“Maybe I seem selfish, but when it comes to you, I’m the most selfish man in the world.”

It was the first time that Gray said something like that, so he hoped that Juvia would notice it.

“When are you leaving?” She asked. 

“Tomorrow at 2pm because we have to wait for Natsu and Lucy to wake up.” He answered, not understanding why she was asking that.

From the way her lips pressed together to make a fine line, Juvia seemed to think about what to say next. 

“We will talk about it tomorrow morning…” She turned to go home, but he took her hand not understanding what she was doing. 

“What are you doing? I leave for the 100 years quest soon, so I want to stay with you until tomorrow.” 

“Juvia waited for you for more than 9 years during which you paid no attention to her feelings. And you think that the day you decide to notice her, Juvia must accept without complaining,” she paused as if she were surprised by her own words. “She is not a doll that you can manipulate when you want to; she is a woman. A woman with a lot of feelings and a lot of fear. Juvia thinks you should understand that!”

And before Gray could say anything, she was gone. What just happened?! He couldn’t lose her again.

                                                                        *****

A few hours later, Gray was at the guild, a drink in his hand while he thought of her. He was so stupid and stubborn. He only thought about him in the relationship. Two lovers are supposed to work together, and he hoped that Juvia would forgive him. The man spent his time brooding and crying over how stupid he was. A few hours later, the barmaid came to talk to him.

“Gray, you need to leave now. I have to close the bar and the guild. Can you turn around?” Mira asked from behind him, not noticing the tears rolling down his cheeks.

Gray turned around to look at her, his eyes red from crying. The woman was surprised by the unusual expression on his face. “Is everything all right?”

He took a little time to answer, he didn’t even know how to reply.

“I’m not the one to whom you should ask,” Gray answered taking a sip of his glass. 

The satanic soul mage didn’t understand what he meant by that. Just what was the problem?

“Don’t worry Mira, I don’t plan on leaving the guild until tomorrow morning. You can go home and sleep now.”

She was worried about him, but sometimes people need time to talk. She knew that Gray was this type of person. With that in mind, Mira left the guild, still worried about her friend.

 Gray stayed at the guild wondering what Juvia would do when he left for the 100 years quest. A series of questions ran through this mind. Would she cry and hate him? Would she not want to hear or see him ever again? He was afraid about tomorrow, because he may never know how she really felt about this. Would they ever finish their conversation from earlier?

A few minutes later, Gray could hear the door open.

“Mira I told you I’m fine, don’t worry about me,” He said but when he looked at the person who was in front of him, it was none other than Gajeel Redfox. “Oi! Ice Boy!” Gajeel answered. “Are you okay?”

The ice mage could understand the irony. “Do you know if she is okay?” Gajeel didn’t even have to ask who Gray was referring to.

“So, you care about her now, do you?” 

Gray hated his tone. He already felt bad enough; he did not need that. He stood up and looked at him.

“Listen, I care about her. I can’t live without her… I,” He stopped, unable to utter words from his mouth.

“You what?” encouraged Gajeel.

“I love her.”

A mischievous smile appeared on Gajeel's face while he looked at him.

“Gihee. Therefore, you see that you have to say it to her. She needs to hear that, Gray. She waited years to be with you, so you should understand that she was disappointed about the 100 years quest.”

It was the first time in his life that Gray heard Gajeel speak this way so freely. “You are right, I have to tell her that. She deserves it; she deserves everything. And it’s my role to do that. She needs to feel loved.”

“Oh my Mavis! That’s what I wanted to hear!” Gajeel exclaimed with a smile.

“Thank you Gajeel,” Gray said. “I feel better about myself now. I have to tell her tomorrow before I leave.”

They both finished the night at the bar, drinking and chatting about their love lives. Gray never had a conversation like that with Gajeel before. It was very pleasant and weird at the same time. But thanks to that, he was less stressed.

 *****

Regarding of the conversation with Gajeel, Gray was still stressed like he had never been the next day. The pain in his stomach was strong. The things we do for love, huh? Gajeel was still sleeping at the bar. Last night made Gray realize how much the dragon slayer loved Juvia. He hoped that he would take care of Juvia when the ice mage left.

He hated himself.

A few hours later, the guild was crowded but he did not see Juvia. At Erza's request, he climbed onto the table as it was the moment he dreaded the most. 

Goodbyes. “We are here to make an announcement,” Erza began “Gray will explain to you in detail.”

They all knew the sister figure hated to talk in front of people, thus he started to explain the situation.

Then, a beautiful blue haired woman held his attention. Juvia. She was there after all.

After he finished explaining, he went to the water mage, determined to explain himself. 

“Juvia we need to talk.” Gray started.

“Yes, we have to,” She answered; her monotonous tone made him more stressed than before.

They left the guild to go outside, they started to walk. She was very quiet, showing that their separation was going to be heartbreaking.

They stopped to walk when Gray took Juvia’s hand, urging her to look in his eyes. 

“Juvia... you know how important you are to me, but you also know that I am stupid and immature when it comes to feelings,” 

While blushing, she started to look at him, and Gray was content to see a good reaction. “I love you Juvia. I will always will. You are the most patient, beautiful, and understanding girl in the world, and I want to stay with you forever. No quests will be able to separate us; no love rivals. Nothing, and nobody.”

“Gray-sama, Juvia is so glad that you have understood her feelings.” 

It was the best moment to show her his surprise. He brought his hands together and began to say, “Ice make ring.” 

That’s when a stunning, ice ring appeared in his hand. He took Juvia’s finger and let the ring slide on.

“What is that Gray-sama?” Juvia asked peering the ring which fit her well. 

“It’s a promise,” He started “I promise to come back to you. I promise to make you my wife, and I promise to love you for eternity.” 

Then, Juvia started to cry and threw herself in his arms. Only tears of joy were shed. All was well. 

@nalugruviaevents check @anime-top-arts art : https://anime-top-arts.tumblr.com/post/186001109101/today-its-the-day-that-me-and-jfangirld-will

[zzloch]

Torture

*Disclaimer, I don't own any of the characters but I do own the plot*

I hope you enjoy the story

-Z.Z Loch

"Levy!"

A blonde-haired girl was waving her arms violently calling over her best friend, who was on the other side of the gym talking to her boyfriends. "LuLu!" The small girl waved back, the boy she was talking to had walked away. Levy ran up the bleachers to get to the blonde and the other bluenette sitting next to her. The two girls hugged and sat down. "Hi, Juvia" Levy waved at the shy girl. "Hello Levy" she waved back. Juvia looked down at her watch. "Shoot, Juvia has to go, have fun tonight."

"Make sure they end up together" Lucy laughed.

"Will do" the bluenette smiled

"Gray-Sama, remember, tomorrow, the fair, 9 am" A dark-haired boy rolled his eyes and turned around to face his girlfriend, smirking

"Who do I bring again?" Gray asked

"Lyon-sama, and no 'forgetting' him this time."

"Fine, see you tomorrow" Gary waved to his girlfriend

"Gajeel-Kun" Juvia said popping out from behind the doorway

"Yeah, Sprinkler"

"Do NOT Kill anyone, when Juvia is not around."

"Okay, You can help."

"Gajeel-Kun!" Juvia stomped her foot. Gajeel laughed at the angry female.

"Yeah, Yeah, go have your goddamn sleepover," Gajeel said dismissing her

"Bye Boys" Juvia waved goodbye to the team then ran outside

The team waved back, some staring at her. Gray glared "Let's get back to work," he said grabbing everyone's attention from his girlfriend. "Hey Stripper, Last time I checked I'm the team captain" a blonde-haired boy commented. "No one cares Sparky."

As the boys continued to practice (So Gray and Natsu fighting pulling Gajeel in, Jellal trying to calm the situation, Leo saying he's pretty to fight, Laxus and Bickslow laughing at the 'Idiots,' and Freed shaking his head in embarrassment) The two best friends sitting on the bleachers continued to talk

"We Should watch Horror movies."

"No those are scary."

"Karaoke?"

"You know I can't sing."

Lucy rolled her eyes "Anime" she said knowing that's the only thing her friend would watch

Levy's eyes lit up. "Yesssssss, don't be mad you know you like it."

"I just need to know why he doesn't play the piano anymore, and I do not like it."

"Sure"

"If I watch anime you need to do something for me."

"What," Levy said suspiciously

"You need to convince Gajeel to go on a date with you."

"What's the catch?"

"You take him on a date, and I'll bring Natsu, and we have a Double Date."

"Noooooooooo, They'll fight the entire time."

"Please" Lucy begged of her small friend

"Fine" Levy said she knew she would regret this later.

"We'll work on the details tonight, just text him and tell him you guys are going on a date and to meet him at the Mini Golf course."

"Fine"

As the two discussed the details, their boyfriends were finishing up practice. "What are they planning this time?" Natsu wondered to himself as he was walking into the locker room "They could just be you know, Talking" Gajeel commented sarcastically. "I just hope it's not another double date."

"Me too."

"What's so bad about double dates," Gray asked, while he and his girlfriend had been dating for a while she didn't like to go out resulting in not a lot of dates.

"Well it depends if your friends it's ok but if you hate the other person" Natsu Glared at the punk talking to Laxus. " It doesn't normally go well."

"I almost strangled him last time."

"Why" Laxus inquired

"He was bein a dick."

"Good reason" Laxus rolled his eyes

"Why do you care what a double date is like, it's not like Juvia likes to go outside."

"Apparently she does now." Gray sighed "She's making me bring Lyon to the amusement park with us, and I think she's bringing a friend. But her friend and Lyon aren't dating."

"She's probably bringing Meredy" Gajeel commented

"How do you know?"

"Spend a week stuck in a hotel with her, while your parents talk about business. You have no idea how much she rants about Meredy and Lyon being a cute couple and just couples in general."

"Try dating the school's matchmaker" Laxus commented.

"Try hearing about how her friend did this, and that means they did this, and on and on, I swear Lucy could talk for a year non-stop."

The boys continue to bicker over whose girlfriend/friend was worse when it came to shipping their classmates, the girls were fangirling, over well, shipping.

"And Juvia told me she's setting up Meredy and Lyon tomorrow."

"Cute" Levy squealed "I heard Mira is setting up her brother with Laxus's friend."

"Ahhh"

The fangirling continued until the boys came out of the locker room and Laxus ran off to help with the lighting for the play, and Jellal ran off to make sure Meredy was with Juvia.

"Shrimp!"

"Ugh, What"

"Where are you going?" Her nosy boyfriend asked

"Lucy's."

"Okay"

"Where are you going?"

"RR, I have a planning meeting for a music video, then to the motorbike track."

"Nice"

Elsewhere

"Luce!"

"Hey Natsu" Lucy waved at her boyfriend

"Can I take you home."

"Sorry, Natsu, Levy and I have a sleepover."

"Awwww" Natsu pouted

"Hey, we can hang out tomorrow. Don't forget EV Mini-Golf Course, 1:00, PM not AM."

"Okay" Natsu Brightened up

Just then Levy and Gajeel walked out of the school. Levy ran towards Lucy's car and jumped in. "Come on, Let's go."

Natsu, seeing his brother kissed Lucy on the cheek and ran to 'talk to' aka annoy his brother. Gajeel walked towards his dad's company's headquarters

At Lucy's House

"Hello Mrs. Heartfilia, Mr. Heartfilia"

"Hey Mom, Dad"

"Good afternoon girls" The Heartfilia household was very prestigious and formal.

"Wash up, dinner will be ready at 5:30" Layla Heartfilia told the two 16-year-old girls

"Yes ma'am" Lucy ran upstairs dragging her small friend up the stairs and pulled the girl into her room.

"So, how are you and Gajeel."

"We're fine."

"What about you and Natsu."

"He was talking to Lisanna, and I don't know if she was flirting with him or they were just talking."

"They're childhood friends right?"

"Yeah"

"So why would she flirt with him? if she liked him she would have done that a long time ago."

"Because they were more compatible then him and me."

"I don't think so, Juvia was telling me Lisanna has a secret boyfriend, and she was going to ask Natsu how to be a good girlfriend. Also, Natsu clearly loves you so he would never cheat on you."

"First of all, That's true. Secondly, Aww, That's cute. Who's the guy?"

"Juvia wouldn't say, but I'm guessing Freed" (Spoiler Alert: It's not)

"They would be so cute together."

"LUCY GET DOWN HERE"

"Yes Father"

1 hour later

The girls were sitting in Lucy's room gossiping

"Oh, wait did you ask Gajeel to meet you tomorrow?"

"Yeah, I asked him, He said yes."

"Oh perfect!" Lucy said clapping her hands together

Levy rolled her eyes. "You know they are just going to kill each other, right?"

"Maybe they'll get along this time," Lucy said shrugging.

"That's as likely as Natsu and Gray never fighting again."

"Fair, What movie do you want to watch?" Lucy asked holding up a bunch of movies. "MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS!" Levy screamed grabbing the movie case and running to the TV and putting in the movie. Lucy rolled her eyes at her friend's obsession with mystery and old books. "Fine, even though we've watched that like 12 times" Levy looked at her friend "Your Point," she said very seriously. The rest of the night was spent gossiping, teasing each other, laughing, and watching movies (mostly anime)

*The Next Morning*

"Levy! Get up" Lucy screamed in her best friends ear. "It's 11 am" Lucy was running around her room trying to find an outfit for their double date. "Calm down, we told them to meet us at 1," Levy said rubbing her eyes, trying to wake up and calm down her panicked friend. "Oh, right" Levy sighed she was finally calm. "Now let's go eat and then get dressed."

*Time skip to 1 pm*

Natsu nervously stood outside the golf course waiting for his girlfriend, she was never late. Then he showed up. Gajeel Redfox was walking towards him "What the hell are you doing here?" Natsu questioned the punk. "Waiting for my girlfriend, Why are you here?" "I'm here waiting for my girlfriend" The boys looked at each other realization washed over the two boys faces.

"Hey Boys," Lucy said dragging Levy behind her.

"Why are you doing this again?" Natsu asked his girlfriend

"Yeah, I'm just gonna end up getting annoyed at this idiot," Gajeel said pointing to the pinkette next him.

"Yeah, Hey," Natsu said offended

"So do you want to cancel."

"NO" Natsu yelled, Gajeel just shrugged.

"Let's go Golfing then," Lucy said pulling Natsu with her. Gajeel and Levy walking behind them. "Sorry I lied," Levy said sheepishly. "You didn't lie, you asked me if I wanted to come on a date and I agreed" Gajeel sad "I lied by omission" "What the hell does that mean" Levy was about to respond when Gajeel interjected "You know what nevermind, I honestly don't care. Everyone lies, I lie, and It normally doesn't affect anything. I also won't do anything, last time when Juvia found out what I did, she drew on my face while I was asleep." Levy stifled a Laugh "It's not funny" Gajeel said defensively "Remind me never to get Juvia mad" Levy told him. "Yeah, she's scary." Levy laughed, her big, tuff, punk boyfriend was afraid of Juvia, a tiny, sweet and adorable girl, who probably couldn't hurt a fly.

"Here's your clubs and balls, have fun," the person at the window said. "We will," Lucy said dragging Natsu with her. This was going to be Torture for the boys.

"I got a hole in one" Levy screamed jumping up and down. "Good for you, Shrimp," Gajeel said writing down her score. "What's the score now Gajeel?" Lucy asked. "Shrimp, You, Flame Brain, Me" Gajeel grumbled walking to the next hole. "Ha, I'm beating you" Natsu made fun of the black-haired boy. "Shut it you dumbass, I don't do Golf" Gajeel Grumbled. "That's a shit excuse. Please, I normally don't play and I'm beating you" "By one mother-fucking point, you aren't that far ahead" "Still beating you" "Stop fighting or I'll call Erza" Lucy threatened. "Sorry, Lucy" The boys responded.

*1 hour later*

The group of friends (Two friends and two frenemies) were driving home in Lucy's car. Natsu's brother, Zeref had taken his because Natsu wasn't supposed to have it and Gajeel brought his motorbike and the 4 of them couldn't fit on that. (It was currently in the back of Lucy's car)

"I Won!" Levy said excitedly. "We know, you've been saying that since we left the course" Lucy rolled her eyes at her overexcited best friend. "So boys, How is the team?" Lucy asked, trying to make small talk. "We're doing well, I think we will beat Sabertooth next week," Natsu said, overly confident as usual. "Don't overestimate yourself, we don't know how to work together." Gajeel Muttered the last part "You guys do fight a lot" Levy said. "Whatever" Gajeel rolled his eyes "Metal Brain always starts it" Natsu muttered. "What did you just say charcoal?"

"Nothin' Metal Face"

"Why you little-"

"NO FIGHTING IN MY CAR!" Lucy yelled at the two bickering boys

"Sorry," Natsu said sheepishly

"Whatever" Gajeel rolled his eyes

"Why don't you all talk about your weird drama at your next meeting" Levy suggested. "Fine" Natsu crossed his arms and sat back

"Natsu," Levy said

"What?" Natsu asked

"What were you and Lisanna talking about a few weeks back?" Levy inquired. Lucy glared at her from the steering wheel

"Oh, we were talking about- Actually she told me not to tell anyone"

"You can tell us, right?"

"Nope"

"They were talking about Lisanna's new boyfriend" Gajeel commented

"How do you know?" Natsu asked

"Juvia told me" He explained as if it was obvious

"Who is her boyfriend?" Levy asked

"Some dark blue-haired guy"

"There are like 500 people we know with blue hair”

“I don’t know the damn details”

"We're here Gajeel," Lucy said pulling up to Gajeel's House.

"Thanks, Bunny Girl, See you next week shrimp," Gajeel said as he got out of the car and went to open the back to get his bike.

"My Name is LUCY!" Lucy screamed at him. "Yeah, Yeah, Whatever" Gajeel sad pulling out his bike. "Wait Gaje, Could you take me home?" Levy asked hoping out of the car. "Why not" Gajeel shrugged. "Bye Lucy, Natsu" Levy waved at her friend and the pinkette. "Bye Levy" "Come on Shrimp, Let's get you home. Just let me put my bike away and we can take my car" "Alright" Levy said following him into the Refox family's garage.

As Lucy was getting ready to drive away Natsu climbed up into the passenger seat poking his girlfriend in the process "Hey Luce" "What?" "Do you hate Lisanna?" He asked. Lucy's face went pale, she dreaded Natsu asking this question. Before answering she sighed. "No, I'm just jealous of your relationship with her" Lucy started the car. "Why?" "because you guys are so close and seem like you would be a better couple" Natsu started laughing. "It's not funny" Lucy whined. "Luce, don't ever think I would date Lis, she's my childhood best friend, she's just my friend and I will spend time with her but I will always love you. Please be nice to her, she thinks you hate her." Natsu said in a serious tone. "She does?" Lucy asked. "Yeah, she really wants to be friends with you but thinks you hate her" "Oh No," Lucy said in a sad tone. "I never meant for her to feel like that" "I know" "I'll talk to her on Monday." "Good idea, She'll like that" Natsu smiled at his girlfriend. He was really lucky to have someone like her. "Alright see you at school." Lucy waved at Natsu as he got out. "Bye," he waved back smiling. "Love ya Luce" "Love you too" Lucy smiled, she was lucky to have such an amazing person as her boyfriend

*With Levy and Gajeel*

"Alright which car do you want to take?" Gajeel asked the petite bluenette. "Oh, that blue one is pretty. Can we take that one?" Levy asked pointing to a dark blue Corvette. Gajeel shrugged "Why not, Let me just make sure it's ok with the owner." "Who owns it?" Levy questioned, she sometimes forgot his family collected cars and they often kept a lot of people who needed someone to hold onto their car, commonly family friends who were on vacation, in their garage. "Juvia, she left it here last time she was over," Gajeel said nonchalantly. Levy tilted her head to the left out of confusion, sure she knew Juvia's family was rich but the girl had never seemed to be the one to own such an extravagant car. "She only has this one for when she's going somewhere important" Gajeel explained seeing the small girls confusion. Gajeel's phone buzzed, he looked down, "She said we could take it" "It's a nice car" "Yeah." The two got in the car.

"So are you doing well in class?" Levy asked. Gajeel groaned, she always asked this. "I'm passing," he said. "Passing is not the same as succeeding," Levy said seriously. "I know, I'm just not good at tests and I don't like homework"

"Just because you don't like it doesn't mean you shouldn't do it"

"I'm inheriting my dad's company, What more do I need"

Levi sighed "You need to know business tactics, stats, what people want, stuff like that"

Gajeel rolled his eyes "R.R is a record company, It can't be too hard to manage"

"Trust me you will be begging for my help when you become in charge"

"Alright" Gajeel decided to drop it, they were nearing her house (cough cough Library) and she wouldn't let it go if he didn't

"See ya' tater tot," He said as he pulled up to her house

"My name is Levy," she said kissing his cheek

"I don't care," He said sticking his tongue out "Love ya' Tiny"

"Love you to Screw Brains," She said kissing him again.

"LEVY, YOU'RE LATE" Mr. McGarden yelled from inside the house. "YOU BETTER NOT BE WITH THAT REDFOX KID" Levy rolled her eyes and turned around to wave to her boyfriend but he was already down the road. "Leave that boy alone, he is a fine young man" she heard her mother hit her father with a cookie sheet. Levy smiled and thought 'my family is crazy' "GET IN HERE YOUNG LADY" "Yes sir" Levy said running in her house. Today wasn't complete torture.

Hope you liked it and I hope you have a good day

-Z.Z Loch

[amehanaaa]

How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days

Last chapter at last! Isn’t it great that we just get to read our OTP fall in love like 10,000 times and it never gets old? Thank you all for joining this story, your love, and your support. Writing professionally is a dream right now, but you all make me feel like it’s possible someday. Please, take care of yourselves! Happy summer! (Also can be read here.) Chapter 9 – Chapter 1 / Chapter 2 / Chapter 3 / Chapter 4 / Chapter 5 / Chapter 6 / Chapter 7 / Chapter 8 Words: 4500 Summary: Lucy and Natsu are determined to take the necessary steps to fulfill their lifetime dreams. Little do they know, they have both given themselves 10 days to achieve it.

“This wasn’t what I was expecting, Lucy.”

Lucy watches her boss flip through the printed article. Erza pauses to read a few pages before going on to the next. Although she wears a poker face, Lucy has never seen Erza’s eyes gleam like this before.

With uncomfortable bags resting beneath her eyes, Lucy uncontrollably bobs her knee while she waits in her seat. Not because she’s nervous, but she is certain that she will fall asleep if she doesn’t find a way to keep herself moving.

Instead of processing her breakup with Natsu last night, she spent all night polishing her notes into a cohesive article. She feels as though she poured her heart and soul into this article. At this point, she doesn’t care what Erza thinks about it anymore.

One of Lucy’s eyelids is in the midst of closing when Erza looks up from the manuscript. Lucy perks up in her seat, noticing Erza’s sparkling grin.

“It’s even better than I thought. Congratulations!”

“Thank you,” Lucy replies with a tight smile.

Since Erza isn’t one for hugs, Lucy awkwardly leans over the desk to give her a high-five. Erza doesn’t notice the atmosphere as she marvels at her story.

“I think you’re ready to be a real journalist,” Erza tells her proudly. “Anything that you want to write about—it’s all yours!”

Lucy raises her brows. “Everything? Even politics?”

“Mmmm, not quite.” Erza waves her finger in the air to dismiss her. “You just have more flexibility on shoes, makeup, therapy, and trends. Use your imagination for once.”

Lucy can’t hold back her disbelief, slowly shaking her head. “Thank you for this opportunity, but I’m turning this down.”

Erza gazes at her with bewilderment. “What?”  

“I’m finished, Erza. I’m done.”

“You’re going to regret—”

Not allowing her to finish, Lucy pushes herself up from her seat. She doesn’t bother to look back as she exits Erza’s office. She walks through the office, passing by Cana’s desk to find her with curious eyes.

“How did it go?” Cana asks.

“I quit,” Lucy answers simply.

“You what—”

“Let’s go out for drinks sometime,” she interrupts her. “See you.”

“I-I’ll call you,” Cana responds, obviously flustered. She isn’t able to say anything else as she watches Lucy leave the office.

The moment Lucy steps out of the building, she can physically feel the shackles on her wrists breaking free. She has never sacrificed so much for a job, which caused her to feel trapped within her articles. Now, she is free to pursue her lifetime dreams.

Her surroundings are a fog as she returns to her apartment. Although there is a part of her that feels liberated, she still has a pressuring sense of the rest of her emotions. Even if she has this newfound freedom, her heart is more broken than ever.

Since Levy decided to spend last night with Gajeel, Lucy isn’t expecting for her to be home. However, she finds Levy sitting on the couch and waiting for her expectantly. They lock eyes for just a moment. Levy can already tell none of this will be good.

“Tell me everything that happened,” Levy tells her.

Everything spews out of Lucy all at once. She can hardly see Levy through her tears as she joins her on the couch.

“It was a bet. Natsu was only with me because of a stupid bet.”

Levy’s eyes widen, but she lets Lucy continue.

“And I quit,” Lucy manages to say through her sobs. “I don’t work for Erza anymore.”

“It’s okay. Everything is going to work out,” Levy says gently, allowing Lucy to cry in her arms. “You’re worth more than any bet.”

“I don’t even care about losing my job,” Lucy says in between hiccups. “What I had with Natsu felt so real. Do you even think any of his feelings were real?”

“I think that’s for you to discern,” Levy admits. “There had to have been something real between you two, though.”

“I really liked him,” Lucy cries out.

She takes such deep inhales that her back begins to hurt at how strong her sobs are. Never in her life has she wept like this—all for a guy she has known for ten days.

But she doesn’t care. Even if she shouldn’t be the one crying, or all of it is pathetic, or Natsu doesn’t deserve her tears, she simply doesn’t care. Right now, all she cares about is expressing the sadness in her heart.

Levy rubs Lucy’s arms to comfort her as she continues to hiccup. After a while, Lucy is honestly surprised that she had all of these tears pent up inside of her.

“You’re doing the right thing,” Levy assures her. “How about I make dumplings tonight?”

“Please,” Lucy whimpers.

Levy nods, spending a few extra moments with her best friend. Living and growing up together since they were 15, Levy thought she had seen every part of Lucy. But this is entirely new—she has never seen her best friend this hurt.

Watching her become like this, Levy recommits to be the best friend that won’t let her ever become this way again.

“I’m here for you, Lu,” she whispers to her.

Lucy stays silent, closing her eyes and resting against the couch. The lack of sleep catches up to her suddenly, crashing over her all at once. She doesn’t resist to give into a much-needed nap.

Lucy isn’t sure how much she has slept for when she feels Levy lightly shaking her awake. It’s dark outside, meaning it has been at least three hours. Lucy wipes away the dried tears on her face and looks at Levy.

“The dumplings are ready. You don’t have to eat them now if you don’t want to, though.”

“I’ll eat them now,” Lucy replies, her voice hoarse. She pushes herself up from the couch and follows Levy into the kitchen.

Quietly, they eat their dumplings. As always, these are the best dumplings Lucy has ever eaten, but she can’t bring herself to express that. There is only one thing on her mind right now.

“I’m going to bed,” Lucy says after their meal. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

She doesn’t even try to shower or brush her teeth—all she wants to do is sleep. She curls up in her bed, allowing the blankets to envelop her. When she is half asleep, it reminds her of Grandeeny’s comforting warmth.

Again, Lucy loses track of time as she sleeps. One moment it’s completely dark; the next moment sunrays are illuminating her room. She doesn’t wake up naturally, however. Her sleep is interrupted by a tsunami of notifications.

She rubs her eyes to clear her vision. All of the notifications are comments on her newly published article. She taps on one of them, directed to the online version of the weekly magazine. There are already a handful of comments, all praising her for the experiment.

She feels a sense of nauseating regret, so she hastily turns off her phone and forces herself out of bed. After an imperative shower, she feels a bit more like herself again. It is as though she is finally washing off the past ten days.

With her hair wrapped up in a towel, Lucy discovers Levy at the kitchen counter. She sips on a cup of coffee and reads her phone.  

“Are you reading it?” Lucy asks hesitantly.

Levy nods. “I can’t believe you wrote this.”

“I know,” Lucy sighs out. “It’s—”

“Beautiful,” Levy cuts her off. “Even if it was a selfish experiment, I can feel all of your pain in this. If Natsu reads this, I’m sure he’s going to feel it, too.”

Lucy would have never thought that her article could be considered beautiful. She is convinced that the article is borderline public humiliation.

“Even if Natsu understands, I don’t know if either of us want to see each other again,” Lucy responds simply. “And I’m done writing that type of stuff. I’m sick of writing articles that are meant to destroy someone.”

“What do you want to do then?” Levy raises a brow.

“I want to reinvent myself,” Lucy states. “I’m determined to create a new company for myself.”

Levy takes another sip of her coffee. Lucy is taken aback to notice a grin on her face.

“You definitely have your ambition from your parents.” Levy’s eyes sparkle with admiration for her friend. “I know you’re going to achieve that dream, Lu. I believe in you.”

Lucy truly doesn’t know where it comes from or how it’s even possible, but tears form at the back of her eyes. “Thanks for your support,” she says softly.

“So, what’s the next step now?” Levy questions.

“No more pity parties.” Lucy begins, standing up to brew her own cup of coffee. “I had my crying moment, but now I don’t have time to wallow in sadness. I need to start researching.”

Levy nods in agreement. “Sounds like a plan. I need to start heading to the bakery, but I’ll come back for lunch. Take your time today, alright?”

“Okay,” Lucy says as she waves goodbye. With that, she tosses her towel into her room, grabs her mug, and takes out her laptop.

The screen lights up to the document of her article. She stares at it for a few moments.

It’s easy to relapse into sadness when she is reminded of everything, but she doesn’t allow herself to. She doesn’t have time to sort out her feelings. If she wants to reinvent herself, she needs to tackle this project immediately. Without another thought, she deletes the file from her laptop.

Now is the time to seek a new part of herself. It’s time for a redemption season.

Although the wound from her relationship with Natsu is just two days fresh, she can sense a new page turning over—with or without him.

Xx

Natsu can’t remember the last time he felt a sense of emptiness like this. No matter how much food, sleep, or movies he watches, there is still a sensation of longing for more. He can’t put his finger on what made his relationship with Lucy so satisfying, but whatever it was, he misses it.

Natsu has never been one for holding a grudge against someone, so he only waits less than twelve hours to knock on Gray’s door the next morning.

Gray doesn’t hold back his bewilderment when he opens the door. Natsu doesn’t pay too much attention to it as he forces his way in, immediately going for the pantry.

“Are you upset?” Gray asks cautiously.

“Yes and no,” Natsu responds, shoving some crackers into his mouth. “I came here to hear your side of the story.”

Gray nods while swallowing thickly. He sits at the kitchen counter and invites Natsu to sit down as well.

“Where do you want me to start?”

“From the beginning.”

Gray pauses, twisting his necklace around his neck. “Well, I almost killed Lucy with my bike.”

Natsu’s eyes widen. “You almost killed her?”

“I wasn’t looking to see if anyone was crossing!” he explains quickly. “The next time I saw her was when she was leaving your apartment after the second night you spent together. That was when I overheard her experiment.

“I wasn’t sure if I should have told you because of our bet. I didn’t want to see you get hurt, but I didn’t think you’d want to end it. You’ve always been a man of your word.”

Gray’s piercing eyes don’t break eye contact with Natsu. That way, both of them know that he is completely serious. Natsu returns the eye contact, being able to feel the sincerity through Gray’s words.

“I’m genuinely sorry that I let it keep going. I should have looked out for you more. I wasn’t being a good friend to you.”

“I appreciate that,” Natsu responds honestly. “And you’re right. If I had known the experiment was going on, I still would have gone through with the bet. The way Lucy started to act would have made a lot more sense, too.”

“She really put you through some hell,” Gray states. “I don’t know how she could be so—”

“I don’t want to talk about her,” Natsu interrupts him. “I can’t decipher what was real with her and what wasn’t. I just want to forget about everything. You’re forgiven, alright?”

“Thanks, Natsu,” Gray sends him a grateful smile. “The bet paid off, didn’t it?”

“In some ways,” Natsu replies with a shrug. “It probably wasn’t the best move to fall for the girl after ten days, though.”

Natsu doesn’t realize his words until after he says them. The two stay silent for at least a minute with Gray blinking incredulously.

“You fell for Lucy?”

“Yeah,” Natsu breathes out. “I did.”

“Even after everything she did to you?” Gray asks in disbelief.

“I-I can’t talk about it yet,” Natsu stumbles over his words. He tries to change the subject. “But anyway, you’re forgiven.”

Gray scratches the back of his head. “You know what? The old you would have never come and talked to me so calmly. What gave you more compassion?”

It isn’t until then when it dawns on him. Natsu takes a deep breath, knowing exactly who gave him compassion. That is what he misses—the unpredictable, profound lessons he learned from Lucy. Even if it was only ten days, he grew more than he expected.

But instead of telling Gray the truth, he responds with his second thought.

“Redemption,” Natsu reveals. “I wanted to give you a chance at redemption.”

Gray leans over to shake Natsu’s shoulder. “Thanks again.”

The two share a heartwarming moment for the first time in weeks. Even though they’ve known each other since college, Gray has officially seen two of Natsu’s messiest break ups ever. It’s in that instant when Gray recommits to be the best friend that won’t let Natsu ever become this way again.

The moment is interrupted when Gray’s phone lights up with a call from an unknown number.

“Hello?” he answers.

Natsu strains his ears to listen to the voice on the other end. Since it comes out like a distant whisper, he listens to Gray occasionally hum. Natsu notices his dazed eyes when he ends the call.

“Who was that?”

“That was my coworker,” Gray states. “There’s a crew member position available for you.”

“Already?” Natsu raises his brows. “Where?”

“Acalypha.”

Natsu pauses for a second, trying to sift through his memories. He has heard of the town a few times, but has no idea where it is on a map.

“It’s a three hour plane ride,” Gray informs. “I’ve been there several times on business trips. It’s smaller than Magnolia, but it’s a gorgeous city.”

Natsu is at a loss for words. All he can do is continue listening.

“They’re giving you a week to commit,” Gray tells him. “If you say yes, then they expect you to be there.”

“In a week?” Natsu repeats. A tingling sensation scatters across his body as he watches Gray nod. “Okay, I’ll think about it.”

“Alright,” Gray responds.

By the look in Natsu’s eyes, Gray can see that he is thoroughly considering the opportunity. He is about to give the subject a rest, but Natsu talks before he does.

“I’m in.”

Gray gapes at him. “You already decided?”

“I’ve been here too long. I don’t have a reason to be here anymore.”

Gray notices that Natsu was going to add without Lucy at the end of his sentence. That is when he recognizes how much she impacted Natsu these past ten days.

“Okay,” Gray says finally. “I can help you pack your stuff when I’m off work. When do you want to leave?”

“As soon as possible,” Natsu answers while standing up from his seat. “I need to go to the station to tell them I’m leaving.”

Before Gray has the chance to say anything else, Natsu leaves the apartment. He is already set on his mission, stopping by his apartment to get his keys and making his way to the station.

Suddenly, everything comes all at once for Natsu. One second he is giving all of his colleagues goodbye hugs, the next second he is talking on the phone with the landlord for an animal friendly apartment in Acalypha, and the following second he is packing all of his belongings.

Lucy is simply a distant memory as he prepares for the next step in his life. He can physically feel a new page turning over; however, there’s still that feeling of emptiness inside of him. In the back of his mind he understands what he needs to do, but he can’t bring himself to act. If he suppresses it enough, he’s sure he’ll forget it someday.

Soon enough, three days have passed since their breakup. Natsu is actually impressed with himself that he cleaned out his entire apartment. Being so busy has allowed him to be distracted enough to slowly forget about Lucy.

The worst times are at night once he’s about to fall asleep. When he closes his eyes, he can still see the brightness of her smile. When he tosses in his bed, he can still smell the sweetness of her hair.

But if everything goes to plan, he’ll be leaving Magnolia in two days. After that, there won’t be any traces left of her.

Because it’s not worth buying ingredients to cook with, Gray’s courtesy lunch is now courtesy dinner. Each night, he visits Natsu with a meal that they share while sitting on the floor. Tonight, Gray brings over a box of pepperoni pizza.

“You’re the best,” Natsu groans out as he takes a slice. “This is great.”

“How much else do you have to pack?” Gray asks in between bites.

“I’m pretty much done,” Natsu answers, pointing at his bed. “Laxus needs a new bed, so he’s coming the morning I leave to pick it up.”

“It’s so empty,” Gray points out. “I think I can hear an echo in here.”

“Isn’t it cool?!” Natsu shouts, his voice travelling across the room and bouncing against the walls.

“It looks like you’re really leaving this place,” Gray admits.

“Are you saying you’re going to miss me?” Natsu smirks at him.

“Don’t worry, Juvia and I will be visiting you more than you’d like,” Gray assures with his own smirk. “But yeah, it’s going to be weird not having you live above me anymore.”

“I’m excited,” Natsu replies with bright eyes. “It’s finally happening.”

“You’re going to be living your dream,” Gray reminds him.

Natsu eagerly nods. “It has been a long time coming.”

It isn’t until now when Natsu begins feeling the reality of his move. He is truly starting all over in Acalypha, living in an unfamiliar place with more strangers than ever. Living in Magnolia his entire life, he can’t believe the time has finally come to leave.

“I have something to show you,” Gray mentions, bringing Natsu out of his thoughts. “You don’t have to read it, but I wanted you to see it.”

Natsu’s heart pounds in his throat as he watches Gray take out his phone and extend it out to him. After he reads the headline cover, he doesn’t feel like eating anymore.

“I don’t want to read it,” he declines. “I can’t read it. Why are you showing me that?”

“I didn’t agree with it when I read it, but the last part is worth reading,” Gray says.

Natsu isn’t sure how much he can agree with him. Even though it has been three days, he doesn’t think his heart is ready just yet.

Nonetheless, Natsu’s hands move on their own as he reaches for the phone and reads Lucy’s article. His eyes almost race across the screen as he takes in each of her words. He freezes once he reaches the end of the article.

So, I lost the guy. What went wrong, you ask? When I started writing this week’s article, I didn’t realize that I was making the biggest mistake of all. I lost the guy I had fallen for.

“Natsu, what are you doing?” Gray asks at his sudden movements.

“I’ll be right back,” he answers, hastily taking his keys while leaving the apartment.

Natsu has never ran faster than he is right now. He has wanted to do this all along, but he couldn’t muster up enough courage to act.

Everything that moves past Natsu is a blur as he jumps down multiple stairs to the parking garage. He doesn’t hesitate to rev the engine on his bike and roll out onto the street.

Yes, he may look out of his mind. Yes, he may be making a mistake. And yes, he has fallen for Lucy.

That’s why he needs to see her. Even if he’ll regret this, it doesn’t matter—Natsu desperately wants to show her how all of this can be redeemed.

Since he has only been to her apartment complex a couple of times, he can’t remember where it is exactly. He parks his bike where he believes is the general area and begins his search.

“Which one is it?” Natsu gasps out as he tries to catch up with his breaths. Sweat trickles down his forehead. Suddenly, all of the buildings look exactly the same.

It isn’t until he recognizes the set of stairs leading to the building when he heads inside. He jogs up the front steps, wiping his forehead with his arm. He pauses in the lobby for a moment.

“I have no idea where Lucy lives,” he realizes aloud. He has no choice but to pull out his phone and call her. The phone only rings once after she answers.

“Hello?”

“Where do you live?” he demands.

“I’m on the fourth floor,” she responds slowly. “Third door to the left.”

“Okay,” he replies before hanging up.

Knowing that the elevator would be too slow, Natsu takes deep breaths as he hikes up the four floors. When he reaches her floor, he notices that he has been here before.

As Lucy calmly sets her phone back on the counter, her heartrate instantly speeds up. Not only because she has missed the sound of Natsu’s voice, but because she has no idea what is going on.

She wants to know how close Natsu is, so it’d give her enough time to prepare for what is about to happen. Meanwhile, Levy obliviously sits on the couch and watches TV.  

Lucy is about to tell her that Natsu may be coming, but she doesn’t get the chance to. A round of persistent knocks sound on the front door. Lucy gulps as she watches Levy stand up and head for the door.

Levy opens the door with a smile. “Hello—”

On cue, Levy yelps and instinctively slams the door. She turns to Lucy with wide eyes.

“I’m going to my room. I can’t do this right now,” Levy states as she rushes into her room.

Lucy rises from her seat with trembling hands, forcing herself to open the door. She can feel her breath escape her body as her eyes connect with Natsu’s.

His eyes flick behind her for a moment. “She wasn’t a real doctor, was she?”

“N-No, she wasn’t,” Lucy nervously laughs.

He lifts his brows, but then dismisses it. “Well, that’s not what I’m here for. Can I come in?”

Lucy stands back to invite him in. Now that he’s in her home, she feels vulnerable. She sits on the arm of the couch as Natsu rubs the back of his neck.

“I read your article. Is it true?”

Lucy freezes for a moment until she slowly begins to nod. “I meant every word.”

They stare at one another, feeling a familiar ripple of electricity form between them. Even though only three days have passed since they separated, it feels so much longer than that.

“Come with me to Acalypha,” Natsu says immediately.

Lucy’s jaw drops before she can stop it. “Wait, what?”

“I got a job offer over there,” he reveals. “You can reinvent yourself. We can do everything we’ve ever dreamed of.”

There’s a ringing in Lucy’s ears, which tells her she’s not in the right state of mind to be deciding like this. But this feeling inside of her is too evident to suppress. She slowly opens her mouth, her voice soft.

“Are we running away from Magnolia?”

Natsu shakes his head. “No, we’re chasing our dreams.”

A grin forms on Lucy’s lips. Finally, their dreams have aligned.

“Let’s do it! Let’s go to Acalypha!” She excitedly jumps up.

“Yes!” Natsu exclaims. He doesn’t hesitate to wrap Lucy in a hug, spinning her around as they share delighted laughs.

Once he sets her down, she blinks a few times in realization. “This is happening. We’re leaving Magnolia.”

There’s a sound behind Lucy; she turns around to hear Levy clearing her throat.

“Levy,” Lucy says hesitantly. “What do you think?”

“Follow your heart, Lu,” Levy replies with a warm smile. “I’m supporting you, remember?”

Lucy swallows as she returns her gaze to Natsu. “Wait. You’re not mad at me?”

Natsu takes one of her hands and brushes his thumb across her knuckles. “I also came here to apologize to you. I should have cut the bet off with Gray the moment we met.”

“But you wouldn’t have gotten the opportunity in Acalypha,” Lucy reminds him. “I’m the one who shouldn’t have done the experiment.”

“It looks like both of us need an extra chance at redemption and forgiveness,” he replies gently.

Lucy’s heart leaps into her throat at his words. It isn’t until now when she realizes she has overlooked a crucial part of compassion—having it for others means you must also have compassion for yourself.

Although she isn’t sure why, tears well up in her eyes.

“Thank you, Natsu,” she whispers.

Natsu sends her a smile, causing warmth to dwell inside both of their chests.

“When do we leave?” Lucy questions.

“The day after tomorrow,” he responds. “I can help you pack your things.”

Lucy nods gratefully. She looks over her shoulder to find Levy with puffy eyes.

“I’m going to miss you so much!” Levy shouts as she rushes to wrap her arms around Lucy’s shoulders from behind. “Natsu, you better take care of her, okay?!”

“I promise,” Natsu says firmly. “I’m going to make sure of it.”

Lucy can’t help but laugh as Levy happily cries in her arms.

Suddenly, everything feels to be shifting into place. Natsu is redeemed, Lucy is forgiven, and they are both ready to take on Acalypha.

And just like that, a new page has turned over—together at last.