Story Title: Hidden Flames of Emerald

Rated: T

Warnings: Language, Yaoi, includes sexual themes.

Author Note:

Obviously, I'm lazy on my ass, I have my laptop in hands, I am staring like a zombie at the screen but it didn't forbid me from completing this draining chapter. In contrary to what you think, I enjoyed writing it, so I hope you guys will only enjoy reading it.

Notice: This has been on my mind like... forever and ever, and ever, and ever, and then some more ever(s). For freaking god-sake, "A Visitor's Wish" a story that I've wrote long time ago... PEOPLE BELIEVE IT WHEN YOU SEE THAT IT HAS BEEN COMPELTED. I swear to god it's completed. If you misunderstood something then my bad, but as you can see, dear reader, look at the description box, and it will say "Completed".

If anyone wants extra chapters (SOMETHING THAT I RARELY DO THESE DAYS) Then I will think about it, but believe me, it's completed.

-Anyhow, sorry for being so late, but I hope the wait was worth it.

I don't own Fairy Tail. This Fanfic is produced for entertainment purposes only.


O.o.O Hidden Flames of Emerald O.o.O

Chapter 7


Gray was… well, joyful. Too much?

"Wipe that stupid Mickey Mouse grin off of your face." Natsu couldn't take it, so he thought he could try.

"I thought everyone loved Mickey Mouse, what's your problem?"

"Ok, let me explain. I love Mickey Mouse. I don't love you."

"Why do you seem to always pick the harshest words?"

"Because apparently, you deserve them."

"Evil Pink-Haired Freak."

"Do you want to start with me now?"

"No."

Gray rolled his eyes. It's not every day that god felt generous enough to let him meet with Natsu on their way to school. Natsu's home was much closer to school, so their timings to meet each other was slightly off, however… Today was different.

"So what happened? Why are you so early? You don't need to be so early."

Natsu felt like he was pestered. "My freaking alarm went nuts. It messed up everything, and because of it, I got to see your annoying face first thing in the morning."

"Cheer up, it can't be that bad. We are about a kilometer away from school. Pretend as if you don't know me."

"Serious?"

"Yup. I'll pretend that I don't know you either."

"Alright!"

Gray smirked a bit, then raised his head to look at the sky clouded with the green and orange leaves of tall trees. It was true that Natsu Dragneel can be a major jackass when he wanted to, but he can still look endearing. He let a small glance escape towards the boy in question. The rich color of rose pink appeared more refreshing than ever, the glassy olive green eyes reflected the total serenity, and the slight tanned complexion glowed.

It is true that Natsu Dragneel wasn't exactly the icon of beauty among men, but he was in a goddamn-silly-crazy-morbid-way, alluring. Or maybe his shitty taste is getting poorer in choosing suitable candidates. Gray would donate a fortune to anyone who could figure it out.

"So… Natsu Dragneel from Fujiwara Naoki Kōtō Gakkō, I haven't seen you around before. Are you new?"

Gray kept a neutral face. "Is this what they call coincidence? Actually, I'm a transfer student."

"I can see from your uniform. Greetings—Ah, what's your good name?"

"Gray Fullbuster. It's nice to meet you, Natsu."

"Don't hesitate to ask about anything, I can show you around too. Do you like Dodgeball? How about you join the club?"

"Nah, it's too much hassle. I'd like to stick with basketball and arts club for now. But you know, I'm surprised the school has a Dodgeball activity."

Natsu faked a smile. "It took a lot of efforts, but I got everyone to sign petitions. Was switching schools hard for you, Fullbuster-San?"

"Not really. I like it here. I got the chance to meet with great people."

"Oh? Everything is running smooth I see. You got anything planned ahead?"

Gray sighed dramatically then shrugged. "Studying for college entrance exams I guess. You know? Entering universities overseas proved to be harder than it seemed to be."

It wasn't subtle at all, and that's why Gray noticed the look of raw bloated shock on Natsu's face. He almost regretted giving away that part of hidden information, but figured that it won't hide forever. When the truth comes out he'd be freaking stuck.

"… Um. W-Wonderful… Apparently, you are… going so far."

"Yeah, I already have a major in mind so. I'm still hesitating about it, so it's not confirmed yet."

"I see. Well, good luck."

"Thanks."

He laughed, breaking the fake atmosphere they both have created, "Dude, you sounded like a complete big shot phony."

"And you sounded decent."

"Oh, shut up, Natsu. I'm decent all the time, you just don't want to get to know me better."

"…" He was silent for some time, then spoke hesitantly, "So… that part about studying abroad-"

"So true. I got a date for taking the exam. It's next week, which is gonna shape the bleak future."

"… Congratulations, I guess."

"Thanks."

He didn't talk much after, and wondered why Natsu was putting up a vague expression. Gray's decision to study abroad came on a whim during the last summer break. He didn't meet with Natsu as he was in a different district that time, nevertheless, his choice of his journey irked him for days when he thought about it at night.

Was it right or wrong? Is it the best or the worst? Staying in Japan or going to the United States? Why was it so much of a pain in the ass when it's time to decide your fucking career path?

The more he thought of it, the more he got drowned and lost.

Looking at Natsu one last time, Gray still couldn't read him.


Naturally, his interaction with Natsu in school was cut short because of his own recklessness. Either way, he didn't mind given the fact that there were many important things to fill up his mind those crazy days.

At home, his siblings were making a huge fuss of his travelling date. They couldn't understand why he decided to go too far-the thought itself was ridiculous-since Hokkaido and Tokyo had excellent academic colleges. Why get on a flight and go to the unknown?

He knew that his intentions were really selfish, but he wouldn't blink an eye to anyone bitching at him for it, even Ur. He remained undeterred.

An annoyed sigh spilled out of his burning chest as he opened the locker to get clothes for a shower. Today was the day of doom. Their P.E, and respective coach, has worn them out in training for the upcoming national events, and extra harsh. He was covered in dirt, his muscles ached to the point he barely held himself together before tumbling in the showering area. Why the hell was he assigned in basketball of all the things?

He could've joined Natsu's Dodgeball team. Those damn schizophrenic idiots did nothing but to throw balls at each other, and if someone loathed it, they would destroy the school's facility. Natsu was their own mean leader for a reason. And a pretty good one.

After going out of the showering area in pants, he went to arrange his belongings in the lockers and to get his shirt with it.

"What has been rotten in the state of Denmark?"

Gray looked next to him at Loke who had a puzzled grim expression and scoffed. "Isn't it obvious?"

"Don't tell me their cheese, Gray. I'm not buying it."

"Alright, what the hell do you want?"

Loke crossed his arms over his bare chest as he has just come out of the shower as well. "I wanna know why you are avoiding me these days. Why are you so distant? Did I do something?"

Ah… right. Out of searing guilt, Gray unconsciously avoided going into deep conversations with the class representative, and before anybody takes the hot pan and try to smack him in the face for it, Gray has got an excuse. Loke has this way of getting words out of anyone even if the other party didn't desire it. He was dangerous. Really dangerous.

"I'm not avoiding you. There has just been a lot on my mind lately."

"Care to share something?"

"It's nothing important, and you better cover up your chest or those insatiable women are gonna eat you alive."

Loke's hazel eyes glanced at the far exit of the room to find his 'kitties' peeking at his definition.

"At least I'm having fun." The brown haired boy chuckled and sent kisses in the air, knocking the girls down.

"Yeah, right. Try having fun away from me. Christ, how many of those have you already banged?"

"Hey hey hey! I don't 'Bang' anyone! I have my standards, and you should say that to Hibiki, who has THAT kind of reputation, not me. NOT me."

"Really? How are you any different?"

"I treat my body like a holy Abbey."

"Open day and night for anyone and everyone? How wonderful."

Loke's words got choked in his throat for a while before he glares at Gray who rolled his eyes. His friend would never top that one.

"Shut up, Gray. Now tell me what is it that you are hiding or I'm gonna find out about it one way or another."

"I'm hiding nothing pal. Go away, let me dress up in peace. I hate getting so much attention."

"Speaking of attention…" Loke opened his own locker and took two envelopes from it, pointing it towards him, "Congradulations, your popularity has increased these days."

"Goddammit. I swear if I see another one, I'm gonna shoot myself in the head."

"… You got a confession letter before those?"

"Ah…" His eyes momentarily glanced at Natsu, who was bent over his own locker, chatting with the seniors who took the liberty in squeezing themselves around him, "Not really no. I just see these… this stuff, life threatening. I would be signing my own fucking death warrant if I ever opened one."

"Gray, I've come to the light the past days that you are completely clueless about your own damn sexual preference. It doesn't stop you from accepting love letters. They are completely safe. You won't get someone knocked up just reading it."

"Buddy, I just can't believe that you're handing me those. Just get them out of my sight. Go drain them in the showers."

"I'm putting them in your locker, you do what you want with them you creepy bastard. What do these girls see in you?"

"Isn't it obvious? I'm naturally charming."

"Yes, of course. Do you want to go out after class? The girls and I found a nice restaurant."

"Um… let me think…" Gray wondered if there were anything to be done at home. So far there was one test, and two homework assignments to tackle, but nothing really serious. He could go out, but somehow, he didn't want to be in the company of a lot of females. He could understand Erza, but Cana? The day she appears decent enough would be the day his own mother stopped being such a witch.

Which is not happening anytime soon, he realized.

"Well… maybe next time."

Loke shrugged, and looked disappointed for a minute. "Next time then. By the way…"

"What?" He was already putting the belt around his pants and ready to go.

"What happened with Natsu's issue? You two are barely talking to each other."

Yes, Indeed. "You don't want to know."

"Ok, give me anything to stay calm with."

He debated long enough if he should tell Loke about it, but after a while, he thought it would get Loke off of his back, if he throws a random bone for the talented investigation dog.

He wiped some sweat from his forehead, the heat of the showers annoying him a bit. Looking behind Loke, Natsu was still chatting with someone.

"I found a confession letter."

"You found a confession letter." Loke repeated, obviously telling Gray to be more detailed than this.

"Yeah. It was in Natsu's backpack. I'm no thief or anything, somehow I found it, and… it was meant to be sent to me by him… obviously from a girl in this school."

"Oh…" Loke removed his sunglasses and grabbed a towel to wipe his face, then his confused chocolate eyes appeared questioning, "So, what is your point?"

"My point is," Gray gathered his stuff and pushed it inside his backpack, zipping it up, "I haven't received yet. And I haven't been personally informed about it."

"What?" The orange haired boy's eyes grew wider, "You think he is withholding it from reaching you?"

"I think, yes."

"… But that doesn't make any sense. Natsu wouldn't do something like this. He could have forgotten to give it to you."

"Defensive already? Relax, I'm not mad because of an inane letter. I'm more on the side of being curious as to why I'm not receiving it."

"Me too. You're shocking me here."

"I'm amused, really. It doesn't matter, all I have to do is wait and see." He put on his backpack and smiled while going out, leaving Loke in utter confusion.

Hell, Gray would understand. Natsu was an honest person, at least that was what he knew and saw in him. Him withholding an object that wasn't his… it made no sense, unless he has already forgotten about it which would be more plausible since he was in bed and the fever could mess up the head a bit.

Then again.

He saw him countless times opening his backpack in school, how could he not see the cursed pink paper inside? It was too glamorous to be simply ignored.

Sighing in frustration, he headed outside the locker room, putting away his tie in his pocket, finding the heat is coming back and suffocating him. Putting his hands in his pockets, he was on his way home.


Natsu was exhausted. Despite the fact that everybody thought that Dodgeball was something completely useless, he thought that two minutes of it was equivalent to a race in a marathon. Totally tiring.

He threw his backpack on the floor when he went home, and opened the freezer, to see if he had any stored icy treats in it. Summer was approaching real fast, and as much as he would admit that it was refreshing, he would also admit that he didn't feel comfortable because the end of the semester was coming really fast. Exams, tests, quizzes, mock ups, projects, and homework were all draining.

He untied his red tie and put it away, unbuttoning the upper buttons of his shirt and he munched on an ice-cream sandwich, sweat trickling from his forehead to his neck. Out of sheer curiosity, he opened his backpack and decided to discover what crap was waiting to be done there. The first thought was to abandon the shitty education process and go sit like a lump that he preferred in front of television.

He wasn't an intelligent material when it comes to textbooks and tests, but the problem was in the demon in the form of human, named Laxus Drayer. The man was going to operate a fucking circumcision on him since he almost-almost failed both of the quizzes on Monday and Wednesday.

PEOPLE. Chemistry, wasn't that EASY. Especially the Organic chemistry that Laxus kept talking shit about since forever, and the only reason he understood it a bit, was from Gray's tutoring last-

-And when the hell Natsu began to sound dependent? It was completely ludicrous.

He huffed and puffed, while emptying the contents of his backpack on the table in frustration. On the floor, he sat extra overwhelmed at the sight of… books. He fished for his pencil case that was buried deep in these items, and put it near to him, catching the sight of a certain pink object.

Swallowing the chocolate and strawberry mixed with vanilla, sweet flavor, he eyed the object warily. He chewed again, and slowly plus carefully, pulled the pink object and stared at it with disdain.

Many things crossed his mind when seeing that offending to god, envelope.

Just. What. Was. Gray. Fullbuster. Thinking?

The sorry excuse of an asshole has bluntly poured out the fact that he wanted Natsu as a partner material, in a very reckless way for almost a week. Both of them didn't discuss shit about it, and have been keeping their respective distances where they belong.

Away from each other.

Today, Natsu gathered that the piece of crap was actually planning on studying abroad, which added some new thoughts. Why did Gray bother admitting that he wanted him? Why did he want any attachments to a place he was going to leave soon enough? Oh? Unless… Gray wanted a damn fling to play with until he's off on his way. Which would make sense, but why the hell the fling should be a boy?! Natsu almost laughed at the whole situation.

He still (in the very far corner of his mind) preferred the days when he goes home along with a new friend, and then they study together, they laugh and share stories, and do everything that anyone dreams to do with a best friend—even if it sounds too cheap. Gray could be a pain sometimes, especially when he ignores Natsu's crucial warnings about him going out shirtless, and ignores what people would think. He was also a lame asshole when he cursed and mocked Natsu's golden intelligence. He was… as Natsu saw, the perfect male friend, he has ever had since… well, forever.

Natsu (in the very far corner of his mind) hated them being foolishly apart. But… nothing could help it. Ever since Gray admitted to Natsu the truth, Natsu finally recognized the awkward stares that he has been wondering about for a long time, as deeply hidden desire. He knew what the occasional touch meant if it was coming from Gray. And he… didn't know what to do about it since no male has harbored these feelings for him before.

He didn't know why he wanted to almost tear that envelope apart into tiny shreds. Sighing, he confessed to himself that he has been acting out of the norm lately. He had to deliver this message to its rightful owner, yet…

Why the hell is he staring at it for long? Better yet, why did he agree to pass on such thing?!

He placed it on the table and munched on his sandwich as he kept looking at it.

In a very surprising moment, Natsu's phone rang, making his heart jump out of his chest, much to the point he didn't even bother look at the contact name before answering the phone.

"H-Hello?"

"Hey, what's up? You sound scared shitless. Do I have that effect on you?"

Natsu panted softly, not wanting the other to hear the panic in his voice. "Of course not! Why are you calling?"

Gray on the other hand, sighed, "Why are you so angry?"

"Not angry. How did you get my number anyway?"

"Ok, that's angry. I got it from Loke, you got a problem?"

"… No. Is there something that you wanted?" Natsu heard another sigh. He didn't mean to be quite rigid, even if they weren't exactly in harmony nowadays. It's that accursed envelop which was gnawing at his insides. It was all making him nervous, and making him absolutely an enemy with talking because he was such a bad secret keeper, "You know what? Ah, sorry. Let's start this over. Good evening asshole, why on earth did you decide to hear my lovely charming voice?"

"That's more like it. I have a theory. No matter how much I try to search for my physics textbook, I can't find it like it has disappeared into nothingness, and because I'm so educated, I know that's not the case. So my theory says, my textbook is somewhere in your house. Maybe on your shelves or something."

"And you want it because-"

"-Tomorrow we have a test."

"Right." Natsu almost blacked out hearing the statement and rubbed his nose while closing his eyes tiredly.

"And you forgot that, obviously."

"No, I didn't." A groan came out uncontrollably.

"So obvious, Natsu. But why did you forget, squirrel?"

"Shut up, jackass. We have so much going on. You expect me to remember a damn physics exam?!"

"Damn right I do. You failed the last quiz, didn't you? You should be looking forward to compensating the hazardous loss."

"Yes, mommy. Not everyone is a smart-ass like you. There are more important things in life than a stupid exam."

"Right. Like throwing ball with a brain no older than five at others who share the same fiery passion."

"It's called Dodgeball."

"It's called retarded."

"It's called fuck off, I'm hanging up on you."

"It's called I want my textbook to study so how do you propose I get it?"

Natsu huffed. "Your stupid theory is wrong until I actually find your book here. So give me a second, I will check if it's around."

"Take your time, lovely."

"Do you want me to hang up?"

"Just go find my book."

Natsu shook his head and left the phone on the table. His heart reacted in a strange way as he approached the shelves, searching through his father's books, his own books, and the surrounding decorative accessories for the senile moron's book. How many times did he forget his own belongings? First his shirt (ALWAYS forgotten), his math book, his pencil case, his physics textbook. How in the bloody hell he gets good marks if he's so absent-minded?

Found it.

Natsu stared at the book like it was actually the criminal, then got back to the phone as he sat again on the floor.

"Congratulations, you should get a Nobel prize."

"So it's there after all. I wonder how am I so excellent in prediction?"

"Yup. So… how do you want to do this?"

"I don't know. You have two options, either you tell me the important points via phone or-"

"-How about you get dressed up, and drag your sorry ass down here?"

"-I was gonna say go scan it and send it by mail. It saves you a lot of trouble, especially having to see me."

Awkward silence settled on the phone between both sides, and he didn't know why, but Gray's last statement didn't send pleasure in his system although it should. So he was the one to break the silence as he traced the physics book cover, "… Seeing you is no problem. When do you think you can come?"

"… You sure you're alright? Do you have a fever again?"

He rolled his eyes, "Shut up. Actually, I'm taking advantage of you. Physics is beginning to be a problem, so I want you to take care of it for me, since you obviously love me so damn MUCH."

"I do love you so much. Hmm, let's see. Tutoring will be a pain in the ass, but I can do it. You are ordering pizza, right? Cause if not, it'll be a deal breaker. Also, if there is no orange ice treats, I'm not guaranteed to perform at my maximum potential. Right, I totally forgot about the fan. Listen lovely! If it's not blowing at the highest power, I'll kick your ass, you understand? Medium and low are for losers and I'm certainly not one of those."

Natsu froze upon hearing the first statement. He was actually meaning to joke around when he told the other about the love matter, and didn't even imagine that it'd receive such a strong, undeterred answer. So even though he was frozen from the outside, his insides were turning strangely warm, and he felt his mouth paralyzed.

"… Hey Natsu, are we clear or my demands are too much for you to handle?"

How and why. How was Gray able to love him, and why? There has to be a meaning for it, because love is not a simple thing you can just dump around. He could understand that maybe Gray was attracted to him, but Love?

That's impossible.

"Natsu? Are you still with me?"

He could feel heat eating up his face, but he had to reply in such nervous state, "… Sure. um—I ah, I'll get those ready until you reach here."

"Wow, you really are sick."

"I'm hanging up."

"Wait-"

Natsu threw the phone on the mat next to him and rubbed his face furiously within his hands.

Just… what on earth should he do?


Just a little bit before Gray arrives, Natsu had changed his school uniform, and checked his freezer for ice. He almost groaned as he was forced to babysit Gray once more. The major dipshit sounded so demanding and if he turned out to be a kidnapper or something, then God help those who will be asked to fulfill Gray Fullbuster's ransom.

Natsu let the person in question in. These days, just seeing Gray turned out to be a major chore. He had to stay calm, not think of dreadful thoughts including the other want to jump him, and try to avoid physical contact as much as possible. He didn't treat Gray like a germ in contrary to anyone's thinking process. Giving Gray the slightest hint of leniency would be destructive, and that's why keeping distance was the right thing to do.

"Where's the book?"

"It's not like I'm torturing it, Gray."

"Yeah, I know."

Natsu gave him the book and almost scoffed at the reuniting scene which turned out to be melodramatic. "Are we going to study or not?"

"Sure. Where exactly do you want to begin?"

"Electrical Circuits."

Gray almost got petrified in place. "Electrical… circuits?! That was the last time we studied physics here."

"Yeah, so?" Natsu knows that he made zero progress on his own, and he wasn't really ashamed to share it, "Get on with it. That's why I said I'm taking advantage of you."

"Natsu, good news. You turned out to be darker than I thought."

Natsu crossed his arms over his chest and made a face tired from waiting so long. "Are we going to make any progress here, or are you gonna keep on wasting our time?"

"Let's talk formulas after you fix me coffee, god only knows this will be a heck of a long night."

"Coming right up."

"No sugar, make it plain dark and muddy."

"Yes boss." With mockery obvious in his voice, he entered the kitchen and began to assemble 'coffee'.

Just when he was so immersed in the task, suddenly his mind woke up. Gray Fullbuster was in the house. This was supposed to be feeling like a nerve wrecking situation, and instead, he was calm… even open to the fact that they TALK?

Natsu rubbed is forehead thoughtfully, then opened the lower cabinet to get a tray only to see a barricade coming down on him, with high ugly noises of smashing against the echo-y floor.

"What's wrong?!"

Gray appeared on the kitchen's doorstep to find the other covered in pans and other cooking pots.

"Ah—Nothing." Natsu managed to pry off the tools and kick them back in the cabinet, "Screw you, I'm not getting you a tray, you don't deserve it anyways."

"I see you've opened the cabinet of hell. All of us have it. Don't worry about the tray, just get me my coffee."

Gray went away, leaving Natsu to put everything on a simple plate, placing it on the studying table between him and the other who was already in his studying glasses, underlining the important information in the book.

"There you go. The coffee that will suck you to the underworld."

"Remind me not to ask you to enter the kitchen again." Gray stated as he checked out the textbook.

"Shut up, it's not like I'm hopeless, I can cook alright."

"Fine, turn on page sixty two."

"Also known as the horror."

"It's easy, believe me."

"We'll see."

Gray cleaned up his black-frame reading glasses, and put them on, thinking about something, "Try to solve these on your own first. If you face any difficulty, you can ask me."

"Too scared to know how much I'm falling behind?"

Gray smacked him on the back of his head suddenly, "More like trying to make you depend on yourself."

"HEY!" Natsu roared in pain, then held his head in agitation, "YOU…"

"Start with it, and stop wasting time." He calmly drank the coffee, and got back to the book which he gave his full attention to, tuning out everything.

Natsu glared a bit at him, but it went ignored. Sighing, he sipped from his own tea that he made, and began trying to understand what's written in the textbook. It was forever until he was able to decipher any of the contents, but was satisfied that he was able to comprehend physics language. He should be given a real fancy prize.

His attention was diverted anyhow. During the studying process, Gray-the bossy intellectual nerd-has taken off his sunglasses, went to the bathroom to wash his face as if he couldn't concentrate, then went back to sit in front of the book, and sip from his blackened coffee.

This process was repeating itself.

That's why Natsu suddenly felt the need to be concerned.

"Goddammit."

Yes, he needed to be concerned, but he didn't want to appear concerned, but he had to-

"Why can't you sit still on your ass for an hour? I thought you already got this and I was the master of slim patience and diversion." There he asked. When he asked, he realized that Gray appeared to be completely exhausted and maybe experiencing discomfort.

"Focus on what you're doing, you don't have time to waste."

"Is it because I asked you to come? Are you tired? If so, I won't really mind if you go back, but compensate for it with chemistry."

Gray took off his sunglasses in an irritated fashion, rubbed under his eyes for a second, then sighed heavily, "If I didn't want to come, I wouldn't have done it. So don't mind the little things and focus."

"However, I can't. Because someone is acting like a wild horse that won't sit still."

"Sorry." Gray sighed and put the sunglasses back on, circling an option in the book.

HE didn't need to apologize, but Natsu wouldn't say it out loud. He could get used to holding power over the other, "You know, if you want, we could be classified as friends, so that thing in your mind, which is chewing on your insides… you can always share it to feel better."

"Am I in a shrink's office? Don't pull that shit on me and mind your business."

"I was offering something you ungrateful bastard!"

"And I'm refusing it because I'm a bastard so stop talking."

How can he be this irritating? From which breed of Satan was he categorized?

Both glared at each other for a while, then Natsu stopped glaring and concern got the best of him. Maybe Gray was from the most evil generation of Satan's tribe, but he was talking about the guy who was actually having a problem and an undecided 'friend'.

"Is it so hard to tell me what's wrong?" He asked, softly.

"There is nothing wrong. Just ah—a lot on my mind that's all. Different things cluttering together."

"Such as?"

Gray breathed, "Such as future, such as leaving friends, such as doubting my own decisions, such as you."

Natsu barely held a gasp and looked at the other, not completely expecting the answer. He struggled with words, but managed to choke out, "Me?!"

"Oh, that's actually the fun part of my thinking process."

His whole being stilled upon hearing the statement and he could feel his eyes growing in size.

"Relax, just kidding. It's so hilarious seeing you all worked up."

Natsu didn't stop staring at the other with his loathing glare. "I didn't know I took much space in your corrupted brain."

"I'm corrupted now?"

"Do you have any doubt?"

"Shut up Natsu. It's your own fault for being so lovely anyways."

"I'm gonna hurl something at you if you don't stop talking."

Gray scowled, "So first you tell me to talk, and now you want me to stop talking? What kind of a friend are you?"

Natsu thought that this person was unbelievable, "Don't twist the facts, are you trying to become a corrupted politician you corrupted asshole?"

"You don't know, maybe."

Natsu breathed to control his temper as he held his pencil as a murdering tool, which made the other give a challenging look.

"Look man. The whole travelling thing is taking over my mind lately; it's next week. And when there is something major like this going on, it's hard to give your undivided attention to anything else other than just probing the subject. My whole family has been on my case for it for about a month now, in addition to that, their constant nagging is making me feel like I'm actually doing the wrong thing."

Natsu shook his head, almost showing sympathy, "When you feel that way, you should always go to the basics."

"Not following."

"Think about it from the start. What major are you interested in?"

Gray sipped from his coffee, then intertwined his fingers on the table. "Since I was young, I liked physics, I liked the shapes of inventions it could create, so I decided I wanted to be an electrician."

"Hmm…" Natsu nodded.

"But. I discovered that I also had a thing for art, creating different shapes and drawing. I was really immersed in that subject."

"So-"

"Then I also discovered and decided that I loved biology. It's really interesting if you looked at it, it describes life whether it's about a human or an animal or a tiny cell."

"You freak. I can't believe the idea of science interests anybody."

"I always wondered too," He chuckled, "However, when I did more research, I discovered that there is a type of major that combines the element of design, physics, and biology, and that was the moment of truth for me, because I finally knew the destination I was going to."

"And that horrible major is…?"

"Biomedical engineering."

"Biomedical… engineering. Sounds harsh, I didn't know you wanted to be an engineer."

"I made research and thought that this will be the one thing I'll be passionate about, and that's when I discovered the Colorado state university. I believe it is best for my case."

Although, for an unknown reason, it hurt Natsu to say it, he said it, "You see now? You went to the basics, you mentioned what you wanted to do, and the best way to do it. What are you frustrated about?"

"It'll not be easy for anybody. I'm going to have to re-adjust, my family will want to see me, which will be difficult because it's no easy flight, and… I don't know really. It seems the right thing to do, but everyone thinks otherwise. I mean like, is it all worth it?"

"If you believe in something, then you should think it's worth it. Even though you know that engineering is not a joke for a major, you chose it, and that should say something. Stop being a girl, and be confident. You are the only one to know what's best and what's not for your own person."

Gray looked ahead of him like he was actually thinking about it and fighting with himself inside. And after moments of dwelling silence, the boy sighed heavily rubbing his forehead.

"Maybe you're right. I'm way exaggerating about the whole thing."

"Not really. Well, Colorado is… a bit far if you know what I mean. But I can tell you're passionate about it so it won't be a problem."

"Yeah… I hope so. I'm surprised you're cheering me up on this. I bet you want to get rid of me as soon as possible, eh?" Gray smirked looking back at Natsu.

Natsu stopped to think about the right words that should escape his mouth. Did he want to get rid of Gray?

That was not the case at all.

"Yeah, Hokkaido will be a better place for me since we both can't live in the same country."

"You sly bastard. You're using my passion for education to send me away?!"

Natsu chuckled as he looked back to the textbook. "I'm gonna fail this you know. If you don't get it back together and teach me well, I'm gonna fail this."

As Gray laughed and leaned forward, giving him a few pointers about what he needed to do, Natsu pretended to understand as he kept stealing glances at the other's passion for the learning process. Gray was determined. Gray was solid about what he wanted to do with his future, and even if he didn't talk to Natsu about it, he would've walked through this path without hesitation.

And what will be left for me?

Unknowingly, Natsu felt his eyes burning, and strangely warm.

"Pizza is here!"

"Hey you moron! You can't just interrupt like that-"

It was insane. He was insane.

He should be ecstatic, yet, why does he feel so suddenly wistful?


It was a long night. Studying for the test lasted longer than usual, and they both have finished at the accursed three in the morning. They both knew that there will be no time to sleep, but they were exhausted; even Gray, who drank the third cup of blackened coffee.

When Natsu saw how late it was, he decided to call it a night. Unfortunately, he had to let Gray stay as well, blaming himself for letting the boy tutor him until this late hour of the night.

Gray firstly got rid of his shirt, and flopped down on the ground where he was.

"Hey you," Natsu nudged him with his foot, "Get up on the futon. I went through all the trouble and prepared it for you."

"Can't… get… up…"

"I can't believe that you were the one who drank my coffee reserve."

"Shut… up."

"C'mon. I want to sleep, I don't have the energy to argue with you."

"Man, what's your problem? I'm sleeping on the floor tonight, in front of the FAN, thank you very much."

"How about I move the fan into my room? Will you come then?"

"…"

Natsu shrugged and unplugged the fan, taking it to his room, which un-doubtfully got Gray to move his bothersome ass from the living room with a stifled yawn.

It wasn't his trait to study this hard and even staying up all night. Gray's presence reminded him with his father's presence, and that's
why he felt threatened into studying. They both had the same dangerous fist.

Natsu yawned loudly and opened the fan once more as Gray lay down on the cool mattress which rested side to side to Natsu's one.

"Thanks for kicking my ass. The weather is much nicer here."

"You don't say?" Natsu scoffed tiredly and closed off the lights and let only one small table lamp on as he returned to his own mattress. He adjusted the alarm so that they won't miss school; his full of formulas head was soothed once it touched the cool pillow. Man, it was a long night, he could feel his eyes practically red.

He yawned again and stared in front of him to see the other's eyes closed already. Gray was a very messy person when it came to sleeping. He would sleep with the small pillow between his legs (to get a colder feeling), half of the blanket would be on his waist, the other half forgotten. He would twist the larger pillow and hug the half of it as his upper bare body gets slapped by the fan like it's the most normal thing of all times.

Some people really have different thermostat needs.

"Quit staring, can't sleep."

He blinked his eyes in surprise. Was he… still awake? Yeah that explained the lack of snoring.

"Are you not… cold?"

"Why lovely? You'd take care of me?" His voice was a little rasped and low as his eyes remained closed.

"You know? I can't figure you out, you weirdo."

"Really? Why's-" He couldn't hold back the yawn, "-that?"

"Man, how can you shun all of the girls' beauty and even think of looking at guys. Don't you find girls beautiful?"

There was silence. Natsu was too tired, and he thought that Gray could've slept. It didn't forbid Natsu from pondering on the subject though. It was the one thing he found strange.

"You said beautiful twice in a sentence. Yes, girls are beautiful. I would know since I've dated some."

Something flared in Natsu's chest, but he chose to ignore it. "Yeah?"

"They were too soft I crushed them sometimes. They were also… overwhelming, but every human has flaws. I didn't look at you because the senseless reason of beauty… I'm more interested in the inside—and I don't mean your idiotic brain." Gray snapped his fingers slowly at Natsu's forehead, "I'm more interested in here." His finger moved slowly from the forehead, going down to prod at Natsu's center of the chest and continued, "This guy is kind, is tough, is patient when he wants to, is sacrificing sometimes, but also … a bit clueless. This guy is all I want."

When Gray's finger firmly prodded against the spot where Natsu's heart were located, with every word referring to that same heart, Natsu couldn't get out another word. Thankfully, Gray's eyes were closed so that he wouldn't see the stupid look on his heated up face.

"But you won't give it to me, which would only make sense. A guy like me, doesn't get a guy like you."

As Gray's touch disappeared again, the place where the finger prodded was still echoing in Natsu's being. After he regained a bit of control over his voice and gaped mouth again, he felt the need to go on with this meaningless conversation.

"There are plenty of people-"

"They are not you." Gray solidly answered with eyes closed in irritation.

"It doesn't have to be-"

"They are not you."

Natsu recognized that tone as a finalized tone. A tone wanting him to drop it. He found it extremely annoying since Gray always spoke whatever was on his mind, and he wasn't allowed to say what he wanted.

What exactly did he want to say? Everything was a maze in his brain.

"You weird idiot. I thought you'd be able to make a smarter choice."

Gray chose the moment to open his eyes half way, revealing dangerous gleam in the blue orbs. He wondered what Gray was thinking at that moment, but got momentarily petrified when the other sat, looking down on him, like he made the biggest mistake in his life.

Oh… maybe he shouldn't have pushed it too far, judging by the criminal face Gray was displaying.

Natsu felt pressure on his wrist and that was when Gray yanked him forward-Natsu was still shocked how he easily was moved to the other mattress-and still glared at him.

"SHIT-"

Gray angrily wrapped him up in a blanket and went back to sleep, arms pulling Natsu too harsh to his chest, and legs successfully trapping him.

Natsu was much surprised to say-or to react first thing it happened while his ears played high drums almost hurting him too much. His face was the only thing out of the sheets, and his eyes only saw Gray's sword necklace, his mind still trying to form a sort of a reaction.

"You'd think that I'm stupid for seeing anything in you, and you'd be right." An aggravating voice came out of the black haired boy who seemed to be fed up, "You'd be right, but it's not like I chose it to be this way. So if you find me pathetic and got nothing nice to say, you better shut up and stay with me for this one night."

It is true that Gray's grip was too harsh, his voice was too harsh, and his anger showed at the maximum level, however, Natsu wondered how the boy was able to keep it all in and not kick his ass instead of… hugging him.

He knows what he wants, he believes in his thoughts and way of treatment with Gray, he just didn't know how to handle it. Gray was intense, he acted as though Natsu was something rare, and it irritated him to no end. Didn't he know that girls at school would die to have a conversation with him? Or even a date?! What the hell was he doing?!

Natsu's thoughts in his brain didn't forbid his natural body reaction to be flushed. One thing was clear to him, and added to the complexity of his situation…

Damn, he didn't want to move. His body didn't want to move.

And somewhere between all of the pure self-dispute, his eyes couldn't wait much longer and dozed off.

After that, he knew that he was so screwed up.


The Diary of an Anonymous Neighbor:

Somehow, I think I would never be able to read the relationship those two have. I see them banging heads almost all the time at the gates of the pink-haired boy's house, but then it freaks me out when I see that-obviously-they've spent the nights together.

Are they normal friends? Or are they lovers top rank?

In my hand I have my coffee, and my pencil to write, and now when I accidentally looked at the window, I noticed the guest of yesterday is leaving the house, and it's very early morning already.

It's like watching a damn sleazy drama.

Ah, I should've changed houses a long time ago.


A/N:

Neighbor-san. My sincere apology.


To all of my reviewers:

Takafumi-chan

"… if Natsu ever DARES to hand over Juvia's love note... I will rage while raving. If he doesn't... I'll simply spray the world with rainbows and sprinkles. XD Keep it up Flame!"

Oh gosh that was so funny! You can't imagine how I found this comment hilarious. I mean, I know there are some things I write sound hilarious, but when I read for others who also write these wonderful things, I just get cheered up. I love you, but don't hate me because there will be bumps in the road and their relationship so be prepared!

Thank you so much for following this story, and for reading the last chapter! And also, for the marvelous encouragement! It was amazing.

KitsunePrideLeader

"I freaking love this story! I can't wait to find out who the anonymous neighbor is! Ican't help but wonder if Natsu is acting like this towards Gray because of something that happened in his past..."

It is quite an honor to write something that you find appealing. I also freaking loved your comment too! Hehe, I know I am a lazy ass with no real fast responses but please forgive me, I'm trying to improve my lazy self. The anonymous neighbor actually is something very amusing for me to write. Until now, I am not sure if I will reveal his identity or not, but meh. I think I will try and work up my brains for it.

Hmm… well, Natsu's acting this way because of many reasons that'll be revealed soon enough (But that's a great guess from your side). Until then, try to enjoy this chapter. And remember that I'm really appreciative of your input to this story.

Angel-Rei-chan1

"Thanks for this awesome story! just finished reading it and: gray and natsu are so awesome!..."

Wow, thank you so much. I give you a high applause cause reading this story is a lot of pain, I tend to make some chapters so long sometimes, so finishing the entire six chapters, that's… haha, so amazing accomplishment! Thank you sweetie, enjoy this chapter as well. And thanks for following this and the other stories, your activities with me are just phenomenal, thank you!

LeadRose

"Honestly, even though readers sometimes do get frustrated because of the twists, I am starting to enjoy them because it lets me know that you will update. All of your stories are incredibly well written and have a way of capturing my interest immediately."

You know? You have to stop putting your strawberry jam of words all over my body because hell, I like JAM! AND I SWEAR TO GOD YOU ARE CORRUPTING ME! You will make me feel arrogant, and everybody knows that arrogant people are bad people! Hahaha, my lady you are just sweet. Thank you very much for the enormous motivation you give me, and I am glad I am writing something entertaining for you.

I will be honest with you, there were some stories that I stir-fried. They didn't really have quality, but as I grew fonder of writing, I'm trying to make it better, and your comments, and even other readers' comments are the engine for me to do that, so thanks for your input, you are making me a better person. *Bows!* Thank you so much.

donotinquire
"…Congratulations, Flamebelt-san. You are giving us a great story (thank you for it!)... please, just don't torture the caharcters too much, it equally pains most of us, readers…"

Hey hey, long time no see. First, I would like to say that your complete review was really amazing. I know I have bad habits with angst even though I don't like reading it, but I always do it for the sake of a good ending like you've stated, so yaaay, you understand me and for that I am so thankful. I'm also glad that you're following.

Don't worry, I won't be torturing anybody at all. I love Natsu and Gray so that should say something you know.

Looooove you. I hope you're enjoying summer break.

Bellatrix Trickster

"…awww he wont give him any chances not even a little one, but i know he does the little rasckel is trying to play hard okay challenge accepted…"

Haha, I laughed so much. BELIEVE ME, Natsu would be freaking lucky if Gray was the one to be his partner, but looks like he doesn't understand that yet. Or maybe he does? Hehe, anyways, I am so amused by this comment. It made me laugh so much!

Thanks for following! And enjoy this chapter.

AsDarknessSpreads

"Someone give him the Juvia letter! I wanna see natsu's jealous face!
Aaargh! Bitchy natsu. Tell Gray to snag Loke instead. GrayLo!..."

Don't you dare say that woman! I will kill you!

Hahaha, no I'm not that morbid fan of NatsuXGray, but you know, I would hate to see Loke and Gray hit it off in this story so don't say the words, or I would change course and then you will be miserable stuck with a story that began with GrayXNatsu and ended with LokeXGray.

Don't plant the seeds in my mind, or I swear I might do it.

Natsu is a bitch? *SOBS*

Hehe, love you! Love you! Love you!

Have a great day.

Mgluvsbl25

"Oooh I wonder how this will turn out. And will natsu ever give that note to gray? Only time will tell ;)…"

YUP! How are you dear? Hope you are fine. Obviously, this story is turning some heads grey, but try not to get too much angry on me after finishing reading this one. I swear I will try to make it up soon… soon… soon…

Other than that, thanks! I really appreciate the lovely entry!

gratsulover117

"Loved the chapter :)"

Your highness! I'm really glad I could give you a lovable chapter. Thank you so much for following! And here you go, try to enjoy this one too!

blackhatred

"I was having a crappy day, but when i saw this update i practically leaped around my room in absolute joy. Thank you for being an awesome writer."

Woah, a crappy day for my lovely reader?! How could this happen?!

Hehe, well dear, I want you to cheer up, alright? Speaking of crappy days, your awesome writer is facing the same problem. Pains in the back and stomach like never before! BUT! It didn't stop me from updating so cheer up!

And thanks for your sweet review, it made me smile instantly.

God, I need my bed… I really need it.