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Prompt: Dawn

It's a little OOC

Erza's POV

I sighed deeply. I had been walking through this forest for hours. Granted, it was beautiful in the moonlight, the flowers and plants taking on an ethereal look. And the soft sounds of the wind in the leaves was soothing. But after so much time looking for a single plant to harvest I was exhausted. The mission was supposed to be easy. Go into the forest, find a special flower with healing properties, and bring it to the client. One that should have been done by noon. Short, sweet, and with a nice reward. But no. Every plant had to look the same, and night had long since fallen.

Sighing once more I conceded defeat for the day. I would have to make camp and continue the search tomorrow. Spotting a clearing I began to walk towards it, only to trip on something and fall flat on my face. "Ow! What on earthla..." My exclamation was cut short when I realized what, or more specifically who, I had fallen onto. Concealed in the shade of the trees, I had not noticed him until it was too late.

"Jellal?!"

His eyes had long since snapped open. He looked as shocked as me. "Erza. What are you doing here?" He questioned, sitting up. I quickly blushed when I realized I was sprawled in his lap and sat up beside him. We both rested our backs on the tree behind us. "I'm on a mission. What are you doing here?" I responded, straightening myself out. "Waiting for Meredy and the rest to come back from various missions. Although it should be another day or so until they finish up." He explained. His steady voice soothed me as always and I couldn't help but smile at him. "So, just us for now?" I teased. He looked up surprised. "Us?"

"Well, it is late, and safety in numbers and all. Shall we share a camp tonight?" I pressed slightly. After all, chances of spending time together, much less alone were rare. He blushed but eventually nodded. "I didn't bring a tent though." He stated. I looked at him questioningly. "Where are you sleeping?" I asked, and he merely pointed to the tree branches above us. "Seriously?" I scoffed. "That can't be comfortable." He just shrugged, smiling slightly. "You get used to it." He insisted. I rolled my eyes. "Well then, I guess we are sharing my tent tonight." I declared and began to set up camp. Even if I had not been planning to spend the night in the forest, I did plan for the worst-case scenario and packed a tent and various supplies.

Jellal chuckled and began to help me set up. By the time we finished, it was nearly dawn. We settled down in the tent. I frowned as I noticed Jellal stayed as far from me as possible.

"Jellal. Come closer. You don't need to be so far away that you're falling out of the tent." I stated. He hesitated.

"Erza, we both know that isn't a good idea." He responded. I knew he was right. If we made even a single step beyond the barrier of friendship, there would be not stopping the inevitable. Even so, he really was almost falling out of the tent.

"I think you could still be a little closer. There is no way you are going to sleep like that." I insisted. He frowned but did not move. "You know I can't." He stated firmly. Suddenly I was angry.

"Can't trust yourself? Can't forgive yourself? Is there anything you can do?!" I finally snapped, the built-up emotions finally bursting. His eyes snapped to my face, and I found myself wary of the storm in them.

"No, I can't trust myself, nor will I ever forgive myself. But I can and I will keep you safe from me." He declared. I felt tears built up in my eyes in response. I could see the anguish plain on his face. I felt guilt stab through me. I pushed him too far.

I reached out a hand towards his face and although obviously wary, he let me cup his cheek. "I'm sorry. That was uncalled for." I whispered. He shook his head. "I deserve worse." He stated simply. I felt my frustration build from that statement but I forced myself to let it go. I couldn't do more damage then I already had. I pulled myself away from him sadly. "I know you'll never forgive yourself, but please know that I have. And that I will wait until it becomes bearable enough for you to let us have a chance. As I'm sure you already know, I love you. " I stated sadly, sniffling slightly. He froze and I couldn't bring myself to look at him.

I was shocked when I felt his hand cup my face. I finally looked up and saw so many emotions swirling in his eyes. Regret, sorrow, grief, guilt, longing, love. My eyes widened as he suddenly kissed me as dawn broke across the sky.

"I love you too Erza. I always will. One day I'll be ready." He vowed in a whisper against my lips, sealing his promise with a kiss.

So… thoughts?