Author's Section: Hello? Anybody home? It's been more than a year yeah? And I apologize for the lack of update. Brief explanation: I just lost it. My heart, my interest, my passion. And I ended up quitting. One important thing you need to know about me as an author is that I write only if 'The Feels' is there. If it's not there, I am unable to write anything that leaves me satisfied. Everything is just far-fetched and whenever I tried to write, I felt like ' this is not how it's supposed to be' or like 'what the hell am I writing?' or ' it doesn't feel so right it's full of crap' and I only ended up dispatching everything I finished. Believe me or not, I have this story already written up until the tenth chapter and I could have updated ages ago. But my guts just won't allow me to do so. Those chapters are all crappy in my eyes and I just can't. I'd rather have you none of it than give you shitty chapters.
On a brighter side of things, the loss of interest has ended somehow and new sets of inspiration started to sprout out. My hands, my thoughts and my heart started working in sync again. I came back to writing and finally, my passion flared up once more.
I apologize once again for making you wait for too long. I will not be so surprise at all if you guys have given up on me already. But still, I want to thank everyone who supported my stories and still plan to stick around to read more even if I'm such a lazyass. Really guys, thanks a lot.
Oh and by the way, I've changed my pen name. From 'Dark Sorcerer of Fire, Johan Lee', I am now will be known as 'The Sorcerer of Winter, Johan Winterfrost'. Sounds cool eh? Think of it like a reborn of me, as a better writer. And I'm actually celebrating my 5th year in fanfiction so, cheers to that!
(Chapter was edited concerning Loke's name being change to Leo—05-02-2016)
Reviewer's Section and Special Thanks Section will now be put at the bottom part of every chapter because there's just too many of you and it would occupy a lot of space here on top so sorry, you guys are bottoming. XD
Disclaimer: Mashima-sensei owns Fairy Tail not me. I'm just borrowing them for entertainment purposes only.
Summary:A peaceful walk with friends became disastrous when Natsu encountered a raven-haired delinquent in town. After losing a fight and have his first kiss got stolen, his life was never the same anymore. Questions arise. Secrets unfold. Feelings blossom. And Natsu is determine to uncover the truth. Truth that has been laid dormant for so long. But it will resurface once again.
"The Red Rose On My Window"
Chapter 3: Father and Son
By: Johan Winterfrost
Sat on the police car's passenger seat, I had one arm looped around my stomach trying my hardest not to throw up. It didn't help me one bit that my Uncle Atlas was the one driving the vehicle. Not even the fact he had just saved me from nearly getting raped comforted me.
Apparently, Leo had contacted the Chief Officer of Magnolia Police Station just moments after I dashed off. I would have felt a little better though if they'd arrived a little earlier. They could have at least saved me from being pushed into a wall and roughly kissed!
The kiss.
My body shivered unwillingly just remembering that. The sensation of the stranger's moist lips still lingered on my own. The way his wet tongue lapped the inside of my mouth, exploring, tasting, as if I'm some sort of a rare dessert served only once a century. His cold hands; one wrapped tightly around my wrists while the other clasped my waist, his thumb massaging, fingers rubbing tender touches, sending unwanted pleasure throughout my body.
I tightly gripped my side, gritting my teeth as I fought down the rush of blood creeping up my face. I could not possibly just started recalling after that!
I groaned out in displeasure when the car suddenly halted, followed by the slamming sound of doors.
"Natsu!" Said a voice to my right. "We're here! Get your ass moving child!"
"Just... a moment.. Uncle.." I grumbled, still feeling dizzy from the drive.
"Natsu. Natsu get out of the car! We need to get you to the emergency room now!"
That was Dad's voice. Shit!
Wobbling out of the vehicle, I tried not to lurch out the content of my stomach while I was being dragged inside a familiar facility.
Grandeneey's Clinic.
A nearly broken rib, busted lips, a swollen eye and several bruises here and there. Pretty much, I looked like the exact version of a human punching bag. Aunt Grandeneey personally took care of my injuries, accompanied with some scolding of course.
It's nothing serious thankfully, though my father still insisted to run some tests on me just in case I've got some internal damage or something. He's exaggerating things again, but I didn't voiced out any protest.
Shortly after the test results arrived, I was finally allowed to go home. As I expected, there's nothing really serious just like what my Dad feared. Only a mild concussion.
There was an awkward pause for what seemed like an eternity inside the car. Igneel drove in silence as I tried to make myself comfortable on the passenger's seat. My body still ached, though not as much as it was a few hours ago. The painkillers must have finally reduced the amount of pain in my injuries.
Out on the corner of my eyes, I saw Dad made a quick glance over me, again. I sighed, feeling itch growing at the side of my neck. He's been at it since we left the clinic.
"Dad stop it already." I complained, crossing my arms across my chest as I caught him glancing my way for the umpteenth time. "It's creepy!"
Yes I, his son, is currently suffering right now from excessive body pain brought by some sadistic bastard who found pleasure in stealing other's belongings, engaging in a fight and molesting them afterward but that was beside the point! Igneel has all the rights to be worried since he is a parent. And no parent will be happy if they found their beloved child being assaulted by anyone. It was such a nice gesture. However, it is also annoying, to the point where the idea of jumping out of the car is starting to sound appealing because they couldn't keep their eyes off of you like you'd disappear into nothingness any moment.
Igneel was no exception. He is a caring father, but he tends to exaggerate things, a lot.
"Creepy?" Igneel quired, his thick brows creasing downward as he gave me another quick glance. "What's creepy?"
I rolled my eyes. "What else?"
"I have no idea what you're talking about."
"Stop feigning innocence Dad. I can see the hole of your nose getting bigger."
He gave me baffled look and I laughed at his expression.
"You're making fun of my nose again."
"Dragon Nose."
"You sounded like your mother. So childish."
I laughed again as his statement, and he chuckled alongside me. The air of awkwardness dissipating, the worry in those pale green eyes somehow decreased as well.
"Whatever Dad. Just stop glancing at me every five damn seconds." I said after our laughter died down. "I'm not gonna disappear into thin air."
"I'm just worried." Dad gave a sigh as we stopped in a gasoline station. "Running off like that to chase some delinquents without even thinking. You're so reckless." He rolled off his window and talked to the gasoline boy, handing a few jewels for the payment. "Look what happened to you."
"I'm fine Dad."
"Oh yeah? That nasty swollen eye you've got was telling me otherwise. And your lips look horrible."
"A few bruises won't kill me, you know."
Thick red eyebrows furrowed inward and Igneel's serious gaze turned to me. "That's not the point you brat! My point is you should have been more careful."
I opened my mouth to defend myself, but with his scolding pale green eyes piercing through me, I've decided it is better for my well-being to just suck it up and remain silent as he continued.
"I can understand if it was some bully in your school needed to have their asses kicked but Natsu, those people are this Town's delinquents. They're criminals! What if that guy you fought had a knife or gun with him?" His grip on the steering wheel suddenly tightened, and his voice lowered in a half-whisper, half-growl.
"You could have been killed…"
His last statement sent a shiver down my spine and my hand unconsciously reached up to touch the scar on my neck. I haven't really thought about it earlier. But now that I do, I felt like smacking myself hard in the head.
Dad drove off the gasoline station and we're now back on the track. He still wore a deep scowl on his face and his eyes were now focused on the road. It reminded me of his expression a few years ago. Back when I arrived home after I sneaked out without permission to attend a party. He's on my bedroom's door, waiting for me. A pang of guilt lashed at my heart to see the same expression again.
"Dad?"
He didn't glance my way, but he grunted in response.
"I'm sorry."
That got him to look at me in mild surprise and shortly, his eyes softened.
"Look Dad. I know what I did was reckless and really stupid but…" I paused, clenching my hands into fists as Lucy's crying face flashed in my memory. "I can't just stand on the side and watch! They stole something... something that belongs to my friend. Lucy cried! That phone... no... what's inside it is really precious to her. I can't just... let it slide and do nothing about it."
Silence enveloped us. The only sound in the background was the car's engine, whilst Dad continued to drive. I couldn't see his expression. I had my head downcast while my fingers played absentmindedly at the torn part of my jeans. It must be the fight that ruined it. That damn bastard!
I heard a sigh escaped my father's lips and I finally looked up.
"I guess it was somehow expected from you." He said, a small smile playing across his lips. "You are my son after all."
The car came to a stop, and the engine roared off. We're finally home.
Looking outside, I saw Dad's old car parked on our wide garage. The word 'Police' was written in large bold white letters on its side.
"Yeah." I smiled, looking back at him. "After all, I'm the son of the best Chief Officer of Magnolia."
Igneel raised his eyebrows and let out a low chuckle. ''That was ages ago Natsu. I'm not an officer anymore. I'm just an ordinary business man now."
"It still runs in your blood though."
"And so is in yours, Young Officer."
A wide grin broke out of my face, feeling suddenly nostalgic. "It's been so long since you last call me that."
"Yeah. You're still a brat back then."
I gave him a dark look. "I'm not a brat Dad."
"Yes you are. Your mother spoiled you so much."
I slightly pouted at that as I mumbled "I'm not!" and Igneel snickered at me. A comforting silence settled between us and a sudden thought occurred to me.
"Hey Dad."
"Hmm?"
"If you're given another chance, would you still like to have your old job back?"
Igneel just gave a sad smile. "Even if I wanted to, I can't."
I frowned, a little bemused at his answer. "Why not?"
He scratched the back of his head, uncertainty flashing in his eyes for a moment. "It's just something your mother and I agreed to...before she passed away. Like a last wish from her."
That makes sense. However, his answer left me somehow unsatisfied. It's as if there's something more behind it. Like a book with torn pages, a mystery surrounded that statement.
"I see."
I was about to open the door and get out when Dad spoke.
"Son, can I have your ears on me before you step out?"
"What ... is it?"
A hand was placed on my shoulder, making me look directly into my father's eyes. He looked serious, making me feel slightly uncomfortable. I've never seen him this serious in a long time.
"Trouble is everywhere, Natsu. Sometimes it is hard not to get yourself involve. It's inevitable. But please, as possible as you can, stay away from it. Stay away from them. Do you understand?"
I blinked a few times, his words slowly sinking into me. I've almost forgot I have a worrywart of a father.
"S-sure. I will."
"Promise me."
"Yes Dad. I..I promise."
Dad smiled at me with fondness. He brought his hand on top of my head and gently caressed it. "I promised your Mom I'll keep you away from harm for as long as I live. And I will. I must not fail your mother. Not anymore."
His other free hand reached for the scarf he was wearing and he carefully put it around me. I winced a little as he briefly brushed his fingers over the sensitive scar on my neck.
"I'll protect you with my life. I promise you that, son."
I couldn't help but to feel warm inside at my father's words. And with the scarf he gave me, I felt even more secured and safe. Although Igneel could be annoying at times and tend to exaggerate things that involve my health and well-being, I'll always be eternally thankful I have a father like him.
"Your mother owned that scarf. It looks perfect on you."
Shifting in my seat to face him fully, I threw my arms in his neck in a tight embrace. I heard him gasped lightly in mild surprise, but he soon returned it, with extra care knowing I'm still injured.
At that very moment, I felt as though I'm a five years old child once again.
"Thanks Dad. You're the best."
"You know I love you more than anything else."
"I know. And I love you too..."
To be continued...
Reviewer's Section:
-darkhuntressxir- I don't really know what that guy is thinking. Maybe Gray thought it's cool to kiss someone out of the blue after beating them up but oh well haha.. I can't really say. Thanks for reviewing anyway and sorry for the wait.
-AsDarknessSpreads- It's Gray we're talking about here haha.. But I'm afraid Gray has no plans on giving the phone back. Poor Lucy.
-ahuna67- Things will spice up even more in later chapters. I'm not telling though hehe
-Mayuko-chan- Poor him yeah? Or maybe it's a blessing in disguise. Well who knows? Thank you for reviewing though.
-0.o Natsu o.0- Hi! It's been a while. Sorry but it can't be helped. I just totally lost my passion in writing and quit. I've got everything back now though and I'm all fired up! Sorry for making you guys wait. I cannot promise an update for Ice Roses very soon, but I'm working on it little by little.
-Maelstrom Alert- It is? Well I'm glad. Sorry for the year long wait though.
-Llaelien- I'm glad you love this story. I feel bad for making you wait for too long. Here's the update though, finally!
-Sunnehstar- Your review just made me smile. Thank you so much and sorry for the wait. I hope the upcoming chapters won't bore you up as well. Stay tuned!
-mooney-996- It is. I hope I can keep it interesting as it progress. Thank you for reviewing!
-blackhatred- the next chapter is here! Sorry for making you wait for more than a year.
-Geek nerd of the book- haha sorry! I just have the habit of ending a chapter with a cliffhanger. I didn't do it on purpose, or maybe I did. I don't really know haha.. That's just how it is. Sorry for keeping you hanging. I really feel bad.
-nori of the sea- The update is finally here! After more than a year.. gosh I feel terrible for this. Thank you for reviewing though. It means a lot really.
-Asuka1920- the wait is finally over! I'm back to continue this story. Sorry for disappearing for too long.
. - marvelous eh? That's just too much to describe this story but thank you really. Sorry for making you wait and ahh.. Ice Roses is still in hiatus, I just lost inspiration for that one but I'm working on it, little by little.
-Fred and George Weasley Twins- Gratsu will always be cool my friend. I'm sorry for making you wait though.
-callkillabear- Oh hey..hey.. Calm down man. *sweatdrops* You're scaring me shitless with all the capital letters and I'M REALLY SORRY! Admittedly, I am such a lazyass. I know it's been more than a year already and I almost give up. You must have given up too waiting for an update. Can't really blame you but… hey I came back. Thank you for your ahhhh… fantastic review! Maybe next time I'll let you smack me in the head if it took me maybe another ten years to update.. Just kidding! I'll try my hardest to update regularly. No promises though!
-Ryuu91- Hello there. You are yet so far the one with the longest review for this story and I love you for that. This chapter is somewhat dedicated to you. It has all the answers for your questions about Igneel's overprotectiveness. Thank you so much for your review and I'm sorry for the wait.
-AkaArtyUsUkLover- Thank you so much for your lovely review. I'm nowhere near a professional writer but I can write just fine. I'm glad to know you like my style in writing. I hope I can improve more. Anyways, here goes the chapter you've been waiting for.
Special Thanks to:
grayXnatsuFT, Maelstrom Alert, Akira Phantomthief, Llaelien, Trostie, mooney-996, noah03, , Purp-lex16754, blackhatred, Gratsu-dragon, donotinquire, soul eater fan and mangaanima, Mysteryholla808, MomokaSe, nori of the sea, Mistgaze, Asuka1920, xx-Shizuka-xx, Midnight1234, DaughterOfApollo1945, Amaryllis D. Namikaze, . , . .DnA, Lala12330ful, VickyOtakuXD, silver neko 08, love-everything67, The-Unknown-Being, Mistory, Arteemisse98, cristallina, Ryuu91, ichinosetokiya01, Skullcrusher508 and MusicMonster1444 for Story Favorite and Story Subscription as well as Author Favorite and Follow. Thanks guys!
Author's Section: This chapter lacked an interaction between Natsu and Gray but it advanced the story and revealed a lot of important details. As always, feedbacks would be appreciated. Be it a question, suggestion, comment, constructive criticism or violent reaction. Just do tell me what you think.
The Sorcerer of Winter, Johan Winterfrost (9-23-2015) Edited: (05-02-2016)