"I don't need your help Gray, I already have my team assembled" Mirajane exclaimed for what seemed like the fifth time.

"I know, I'm just worried" Gray

"Well stop worrying, and grow a pair" Mira said jokingly

"I have Elfman and Lisanna with me the whole time" she added

With that they said their goodbyes, and went their separate ways.

Gray was in deep thought. He knew the mission was dangerous, and just hoped to see his friend as soon as possible. Everyone in the guild knew something was wrong with him, even Natsu who was usually oblivious in these situations could sense a strange vibe from Gray. Macao and Wakaba even had a bet to see when he would snap. But even through all the frustration, life went on normally. Well at least until Mira returned.

Gray was ecstatic to hear that Mira had returned, and headed to the guild as soon as possible. But when he saw the bloodied and beaten Mirajane and Elfman, he became speechless. He was so mortified he didn't even notice that Lisanna was missing. The whole guild was quiet for a few days, Mira and Elfman needed some time to rest, so the funeral was put on hold. Gray tried to make use of his free time by cheering up Natsu who was trying to wash away the painful memories with beer.

"Hey Flame Brain, I brought you some food" Gray said in an upbeat attitude

"Not now Gray!" Natsu exclaimed

"But Nat..."

"Gray you don't get to talk" Natsu said cutting Gray off

"What?" Gray asked

Natsu stood up furiously " Gray, the girl I love is dead, and she's never coming back, your girlfriend came back, sure she's injured but at least she's alive. You dont know my pain! You don't get to talk!"

By now the whole guild was watching them.

Gray, to shocked to respond, just stood there in awe before walking away.

All night Gray thought about what Natsu said. Sure Natsu was drunk, but he made a lot of sense. He wondered if it was really that obvious that he liked Mirajane. He wasn't even sure himself that he liked her, but if others thought they had a connection, he thought he might as well go for it. He decided to be grateful that Mira was safe, and to talk to Natsu.

Gray needed some sleep, after all tomorrow was the funeral.