Wooooaaah! My longest chapter to date (6313 words)! Can you believe I write all of this
on my mobile? xD OK so anyway, there's a lot to say about this chapter...
First, I'm pretty proud because I pulled out a lot of different emotions in a pretty good pace. (I think)
Second, the moment where Lucy speak about time is almost word by word taken from a conversation
I had with my boyfriend yesterday when I learned that my friend was moving very, very far and pretty soon.
It kind of make me realize what is the "time". Anyway, kinda hard to explain.
I'm sorry if Juvia or Lyon seems a bit out of character, but I think they are way too much describe as comic relief
in the manga. So I put a bit more seriousness in their character. Hope you'll like it anyway!
Ugh, that's a lot. Tl; dr: lot of emotions this chapter

Enjoy!

P.S.: Thoughts are like this

Fairy tail belong to Hiro Mashima!


And I feel something so right by doing the wrong thing
And I feel something so wrong by doing the right thing


Fall was coming fast and leaves were the firsts to witness it. The landscape looked absolutely stunning, with all the trees changing from green to red, orange or yellow. It was so romantic, with the wind becoming chiller and the temperature changing to almost constant raining. Sky was gray, but it didn't matter too much for Lucy who, for the weekend, was invited over to Levy's house. Come Lucy, it will be fun!, she said to her in the middle of the week, trying to cheer her up the best way she could. Of course the blonde appreciated the attention a lot, and seeing her best friend made her really happy. Really.

But that feeling in her gut... she couldn't shake it. She felt so bad, yet she knew she didn't have to. Juvia was still speaking to her, but as soon as Gray was in the air, it's like she became some kind of... she didn't have a word for it. Even if Lucy reassured her, saying she would never say yes to a proposal and that she would help her the best she could, Juvia was still hostile toward her and it makes her feels almost sick. She wondered if anything mattered anymore at this point. Love was just not for her. Whatever she did to have that bad of a karma, she would appreciate if someone could say it so she could repent her sins and move on.

She was walking slowly, passing by the park right in front of Levy's apartment. The blonde looked around and smile. Her friend sure was lucky to have such a beautiful sight near her. Great trees were covering the side of the main walkway, leaves falling gracefully. It felt so good... oh, why can't everything be so simple as to watch the wind passing trough those colorful, mindless leaves. Not thinking so much would lead to so much less problems. And yet, Lucy didn't want to stop her feelings because of someone else like she always did. Why, oh, why did she have to be so nice and caring for the others when she didn't even have half of the happiness she ever wanted. Her life was a total mess and that, even Levy couldn't change anything about it. She sighed, tears almost at her eyes when her friend opened the door.

- Oh, Lucy, finally! I was waiting for you! What take you this long?!
- Oh, haha...
She smiled even though it was, and she felt bad, forced.
- I just really liked the scenery. Have you seen all those leaves?!
Her enthusiasm was coming back a bit.
- Oh, yeah, I know! Come on now, enter! You can let your coat on the floor at the entrance. Dinner's ready!

Lucy executed herself and sat on a chair in front of the modest dinner table. She then realize what her friend said.
- What- do you mean you-
The blue haired host made a big, contagious smile and putted the meal on the table in front of them.
- Yeah, since Gajeel came every so often to show me how to cook, I've been improving a lot!
The blonde smile. Of course, Gajeel. She is lucky to have that special someone. She looks so cute and happy when speaking about him now, I almost feel... no, Lucy, now is not the time to be selfish.
- Gajeel and you met a lot lately, uh?, she took a bite of the stuffed chicken and it was... surprisingly good. She did make incredible progress!
- Oh, shut it you! Not that way. We're just good friends...
At least for now... she thinks...
- Well the one thing I know for sure is that it's delicious! Thank you so much, Levy!

The blue haired shrimp simply smiled back at her and after a pretty enjoyable meal with lot of laughs and memories, the two girls washed the dishes together.

- So... on a more serious note, Levy started. Lucy knew where she was going and even though she didn't want to annoy her with her problems, the blonde wanted to talk about it to someone badly. I know you are not feeling really well, Lucy. I wanna know; even if it's pretty obvious. Speak to me. I'll listen to everything you have to say. Even if it takes the entire night, I'll still listen.

Oh, Levy... she was always so sweet and caring... Gajeel better realize how lucky he was to have her.

- I know... and I appreciate it.
Her already thin smile faded into a more serious, thinking face. Her eyes weren't looking at anything in particular, almost feeling blank compared to their usual hazelnut shade of brown.

- It's just... I'm tired, Levy. Tired of always holding back my emotions for the sake of others. It sound selfish I know and I feel terrible, but I can't... I can't help it!

She grabbed her friends by the shoulders, trying not to accidentally hurt her with her rush of emotions. She was crying for real, almost screaming. It was her heart that spoke at that moment. A big, loud cry coming right from that heart who endured way too much without saying a word. Everything Lucy was holding since what seemed like forever flew away from her mouth like an uncontrollable flow of emotions.

- I LOVE HIM! I don't know why, I really don't, but it's just... it's like I am drawn by him! BUT JUVIA... JUVIA IS HERE AND I CANNOT DO THAT. I FEEL HORRIBLE! I CANNOT HANDLE... that's too much... emotions... help... help me, Levy...

Exhausted, Lucy collapsed on the floor, knees touching the ground, her crying face hidden in her hands. The bluenette who haven't speak a word yet bend so she could be at her height. Her voice was so calm, so soothing... like each words was a lullaby.

- You are a beautiful, strong and smart woman. I envy you, Lucy. To me, you are perfect.
No, Levy, it's me who envy you... I am a terrible friend...
- And... like I said the other day... I want you to take care of yourself. Do what you want; in the end, it's Gray and only Gray who can decide who he wants. You don't have to feel bad, you know.

Lucy was still sobbing but nodded. Sometimes small words like that could make a big difference. Do what I want...

- Don't ever feels bad for others feeling. If Gray loves you more, then Juvia will have to deal with it, even if it hurts. But it wouldn't be your fault; love is not a game where you can control the other. It just come... naturally.

She was herself thinking about her and Gajeel and how natural it seemed for them be together. They are friends and it would be naive to think they'll never be something more. But for now, it was better for both to stay like this and learn about each others. She was just not ready yet.

- You can't hope to have the love of your life if you think it will only take a day for him to return your feelings! Lucy, love is something you have to build gradually. You have to be patient: if you really love him, then you will wait and see by yourself who he really wants. But if you want my opinion...

Levy came closer to Lucy, who was looking at her with her eyes all red from crying. She whispered in a really low voice, like someone was listening to them.

- He loves you more.
The blonde couldn't help but smile.
- How do you...?
- I'm observing way more than you think, Luce. All those looks you give to each others... all those times I hear you laugh together...
Lucy was smiling even more by remembering those moments. Even if they were short and brief, their encounter were never boring. He was so... hard to get a grip on. But he also seemed so much more carefree around her. Maybe it's a sign he loves her more than she thinks...

- Feeling better now?
- Mmmh... yes.

Little drama aside, Levy guided Lucy to her bed so she could rest while she made a call. The blonde immediately felt asleep and the bookworm couldn't help but find her really cute.

- ... watcha want, shrimp?
- Good evening, Gajeel!
She sat on her couch, ready to speak for a bit.
- Thanks for the tips, Lucy adored the chicken!
- Eh, of course, I thought of it.
- Ha. Ha. Very funny mister master chief.
- So? How she doin'?
- She was worst than I thought. I think I calmed her, but she still thinks Juvia will hate her forever.
- Ya well... never seen Juvia have a grudge against someone before. But knowing she was in Phantom Lord back in the days...
- What?! Gajeel, what do you mean?!
- Aaaah, fuck. Shoulda shut my mouth.
Levy was worry. Juvia was...

For what she remembered Gajeel told her, Phantom Lord was a street gang he was part of when he was younger. Why he joined them was still a secret, but at least now she knew this much.

- Ya well... she was a poor girl with no friends and nothin' to hang on. One day I saved her from some punk and we are... kinda friends since then. Phantom Lord was like a family for us, y'know.
- Yeah... I kind of understand.
- But when she saw we were doin'... worst things than when she joined us... she quitted. Of course the boss wanted her dead so she couldn't say anything, but let just say I shut him out for good. Ah, that ol' geezer...
- Did you k-
- Nah, nah nothin' of the sort, shorty. I did some terrible things but never killed someone. Ain't my cup of tea, if ya catch my drift.
She let a sigh of relief.
- Mh... I sure hope Juvia will not be too mad...
- Gihihihi, afraid, afro shrimp?

He called her that way sometimes since the day he saw her terrible bed hairs. Levy always laughed a little when he said it, it sounded so funny!

- Stop this! I'm not afraid...
- Look, sure she was with a street gang. But that doesn't mean anythin'. If bunny girl explains her everything and that Gray dude decide to choose Lucy, then she will surely understand. She's like a sister for me after all. She wouldn't her a fly.
- I'm trusting you... you're a pretty good example after all!
- Yeah, let's say it like that. Anythin' else?

Would she be weird if she said "I love you"? They're not a couple after all, but still wanted to say it in a friendly way. After a couple of second, she just couldn't do it. Let's not start another round of drama. Enough for tonight.

- Nope! Good night, Gajeel!
- Ya... 'night too, shrimp.
She could hear his smile from over the phone. Once she made sure she hung up, Levy putted her cellphone on her heart and whispered to herself.

- I love you...


The next morning, Lucy had still a bit of red around her eyes and was visibly tired. Levy, usually not too much a morning without her coffee, achieved to force a smile to her best friend. She needed it, after all!

- Good morning, Levy.
- Good morning to you! How are you?
She looked on the side, a glass of water in her hand.
- I'm OK... I guess. Just a bit tired.
- Alrighty then! Want some coffee?
- Oh, no thank you. You seems awfully happy. Don't force yourself please, I know you don't like morning.
- Aaaaw, you got me.

Lucy laughed. She knew her way too well. Still a bit happier than yesterday, the blonde couldn't be more thankful to her friend. Looking at the hour, the guest jumped suddenly, causing Levy to jump a bit too.

- Oh no, I totally forgot my appointment!
- Appointment? On a weekend?
- Yeah, I needed to see Natsu for work! Shit, sorry, I gotta go.
- Nah that's alright. Take care!

A blonde tempest rushed to the bedroom, putting her clothes hastily before starting a good run toward her own house. They were supposed to meet in 5 minutes! She's never late to an appointment. Ugh, she hated that.

Little Levy was the only left in her apartment. I should be going too, totally forget those books I borrowed.

She firstly drank her coffee, enjoying it as much as she did all the others time. It was warm... thinking back about yesterday night, Levy was even more curious than before. It's so intriguing! Those stories of street gangs... they were inspiring! Maybe she could write a story someday... but it's so much work. She don't think she would be able to concentrate that much on one piece of work. She preferred to read them! Less time consuming and better than what she could ever write.

She looks around her. It seemed so large for someone as little as her. That's why she liked it when someone was coming over; she was not alone. Not that she hated her alone time, but sometimes it feels a little... lonely. So much space was not necessary for her and was maybe the reason why half her house was compose of books scattered around everywhere. Levy nowadays even enjoyed her days at work more than those at home.

Maybe I should get a cat. They are so cute!

Judging by the state of the house, it seemed like having a cat would only be causing more problems. So much things, he could probably eat a pencil cap and die! No, no, she didn't want that. She shook her head, chasing those ideas and finally dressed up. She liked her everyday clothes way more than her usual work apparel, the latter being a little bit too revealing for her taste, even if it made her looks a bit older. Sigh...

A knitted orange sweater on, a pair of warm leggings and she was off, her books in her hands. Good thing the library wasn't that far away from her house, because her arms were full!

Once she got the books back, she borrowed another one but this time, for someone else. She knew he would love it.

It was the tale of Beauty and the Beast, one of Levy's favorite tale when she was younger. Gajeel will love it for sure! After all, he could maybe identify himself to Beast and understand why she call him that way from times to times. She hoped he was home, however, because she was already in direction of his house. During the day and with people outside, the blue haired bookworm didn't mind walking alone too much anymore, even though she usually kept herself to the minimum, making sure to never take shortcuts. One bad experience was way more than she ever wanted and knowing the last time they escaped their terrible fate by the skin of their ass, better be safe than sorry.

The little woman took out her cellphone, composing that number she knew by heart. She shouldn't call him so frequently. Yet again, it was Gajeel who said not to be afraid to call him anytime and to stop thinking she was annoying, which she found really sweet. He said it was only for "security" purpose but Levy knew he just cared too much for her. And that thought made her smile.

One ring, two rings...
- Shorty?
- Good morning!
- God your voice is so annoying in the mornin' ugh...
She puffed her cheeks and, even though he couldn't see her, Gajeel was proud of himself. She sighed.
- Pft. Anyway. Can I pass by your house? Got something for you!
- Shorty givin' me gift? Gihihi, ya sure got a liking in me, haven't ya?
- N- no! Absolutely not! I don't even know if you're gonna like it, but I'm bringing it anyway.
- Ya sure... wanna see me shirtless, afro shrimp?
Her cheeks turned red. She wouldn't mind, really. But...
Compose yourself, Levy. You are a grown up woman and things like that shouldn't embarrass you!
- W- what?! No! Put a shirt on, you pervert!
- Gihihi, OK then missy. See ya'.
- Yeah.

Composure test: fail. But at least she could come at his house, which also meant she could ask him more about his mysterious past! He seems to have so much on his heart he wanna tell but just can't, not having someone he trust enough yet. But Levy was a patient little woman who was ready whenever he would be and even if it took years, she would still be there. Because they are friends...

But nothing more, right?


- I love Lily so much! Does he have a sister or a brother? I would like to have a cat!
Levy was at her usual spot, which meant the sofa sitting in Gajeel's room. His cat on her laps, she was stroking him for a good amount of time now.

- Ya, that I already know, shorty. But no, he doesn't have any. He's like me! A survivor of the street. Anyway, watcha have for me?
- Oh! Wait.
He observe her as she search in her bag the book she borrowed. A little nervous, she finally pull it out and hand it to her tall friend.

- Don't wanna hurt ya feeling shorty, but...
- Oh, I knew you wouldn't like it! I'm sorry I'm stupid.
- Stop saying that! Holy cow you're impossible. I just don't know how to read that much... I didn't have parents y'know, so school wasn't really a priority.
- Oh. I see. Then I can read it to you if you want!

He look at her, feigning he is annoyed but inside of him, he is really happy Levy took the time to do this for him. He didn't care much about books, but hey, if it was her who was reading... he liked her voice so much, it couldn't be that bad.

- ... m'kay. But we go to my room. Wanna took a nap.
- Alright! To the bedroom we go!
He loved her constant happiness. She didn't seems so jumpy with others, looking more like a real businesswoman but with him she was... something else. Maybe it was his grumpiness who gave him the impression she was hyper, but he didn't care much as he was now lying in his bed, Levy sitting besides him. She opened the fable and as she started, he could already feel more sleepy. Her voice was so... smooth.

- Once Upon A Time there lived a wealthy merchant and his three daughters...


- ... and they lived Happily Ever After...

As she finished the child story and close her book, Levy saw that Gajeel felt asleep along the way. She didn't notice it until now and, feeling sleepy herself, rubbed her eyes. He seemed so comfy, with that large torso, those strong arms...

She slowly put her head on his upper body, her lids closing progressively before she passed out in a peaceful sleep. In fact, one of the best sleep she ever had.

- Sleep well...


Lucy was still walking around outside her house, the scenery dazzling her. Her appointment with Natsu went well and, surprisingly, felt like she was talking to an old friend. He was really sweet, even if a little too hyper sometimes. He had the heart at the right place and she knew it the moment they met.

The blonde was slowly wandering in the park near her house, thinking about everything. She was feeling so miserable to always, always fall in love, one man after another. She didn't do it on purpose. Maybe she just needed attention, with all those years confined and almost ignored by her father. She wanted to live her life to the fullest and for that, she needed to be happy. To have dream. She wanted to travel, discover the world. Fall in love, have children, have a house and a loving husband. Was it too much to ask for her middle 20? Sure, Lucy was still young. But time... time seemed to catch on her. Only recently did she realize that... well, she already did a part of her life. Everything seemed possible when she was 14; she had her whole life, feeling invincible. But now... all of this looked so stupid. She was sure she would find her real love right after high school, because when you're adult, you have an husband. At least in her dreamy, imaginative teenage head. The blonde sighed, whispering to herself.

- Maybe I should just stop...
- Stop what?
- Well... what the-?!
Lucy turned around just to see her crush right behind her. What is he doing around here?! She jumped so high out of surprise, Gray laughed at her reaction.

- Hahaha! Did I scare you?
- Of course you scared me! ... but um, what are you doing here?
- Oh, my usual jogging. Nothing new, I'm always running here. The landscape is just beautiful at this time of the year.
- Yeah, I was thinking the same thing!

They just shared a smile while Gray was jumping on his feet so he could warm up. Lucy had a hint of pink blush on her cheeks who didn't went unseen to her... friend? But he decide not to say anything before stopping his little dance.

- Hey, can I walk with you for a bit?
She suddenly became really nervous but hided it with a smile. She was happy. At least a little bit more.

- Yeah, of course.
When they started walking, Gray showed a worried face, his eyebrow frowning. He didn't know why he wanted to be with her so much, but it seems like it just felt... natural. Like two very old friends. It was so weird. Never did he felt something like this with someone.

- So..., he brushed his front hairs with his hand. What did you have to stop?
Her heart started racing fast. Should she say it...? Levy said it was supposed to be natural between them, so maybe confessing her fears was the first step in a good relationship.

- Oh..., her eyes looked down and the little smile she had disappeared. I was thinking about time... and love. I never had a good experience with it, each guys I was meeting being a jerk. And I... I'm starting to realize that... we age. And that... I won't live forever and I'm not invincible. Not at all. In fact, I feel more vulnerable now than I've ever been.
- ... yeah, I see what you mean.

Do you? Really?

- My model job... I'm starting to realize that I, too, will not be able to do it forever. And it's... weird. Old friends moving far away and the last thing you know, you're left alone in this huge ass city. Time is so precious and yet I feel I didn't do anything with it. What a waste, uh?

She nodded. So she was not the only one. Lucy looked at the trees and their colorful leaves. It seemed magic to be here with the guys she had a crush on, speaking like friends do. Maybe... just maybe, there was still hope. Hope that love exist. Hope that she won't finish alone in, to take Gray's word, this huge ass city.

- Haha, yeah... I feel so confused lately. I don't like it, but I think... I think I'm just not made to be love by someone, haha...

Oh no, I didn't say that for real?! Stupid, stupid Lucy!

- Nah, don't say that. I'm pretty sure a really hot guy is lurking at you in the dark and you just don't .
- Yeah but... I don't want a hot guy! I want one that can take care of me and want more than my body!
Lucy immediately regret, again. She should learn to shut her big mouth.

- Ah. Pretty sure there's also one not too far away.
He smirked at her with that face of his that was just irresistible. She became a bit red, realizing what he just said. Wait. Did he just... Oh my.

Did he means him? Oh, if only...

- I like speaking with you Lucy, but I gotta go. See ya tomorrow!
He started running back after putting her hairs in a mess with his hand.

- Yeah, see you!

She put her hands on her heart. He was beating so fast and the butterflies inside of her were so weird. It felt like a high school love. The first one. And Lucy was happy to know that she could still feel those annoying but weirdly enjoyable stomachaches. She was starting to... to feel alive again. To feel stronger than ever. What doesn't kill you make you stronger is what they say, right? Her time with him... made her feels so perfectly good. It felt so right.

It just seemed so... natural to be with him.
- Is that what it's supposed to feel like, Levy?


Juvia does not like hanging out so much outside. She was really shy and awkward when around people she didn't know. Usually sitting in her house and knitting or cooking was enough to make her happy. Thinking about Gray, and how it would be perfect if they were together. But then, there's Lucy's face who appeared and take away Gray with her. It made Juvia mad, but guilty at the same time. She felt it wasn't right to be jealous of her friend like that. Love is just not something you can control after all, and Juvia knew it. But it was like... a lighting bolt who shot directly at her when she saw him. That, too, she couldn't control it, nor that she could explains. She felt she had to apologize to Lucy who, despise her obvious feelings, was doing everything possible so Gray finally notice her. But nothing to do; it seems like he had eyes only for Lucy. And that made her angry. Because she didn't have what it takes and didn't know how to have it.

Today was the beginning of the fall season and Juvia wanted to walk those beautiful legs of hers outside. Wearing a warm coat and a pair of skinny jeans, the blue haired woman was slowly making her way trough the streets before finally reaching a beautiful and peaceful park. She believed she saw Levy in it the other day. Maybe she lived close? Anyhow, close or not, the scenery was breathtaking. Wind was a bit more frisky but Juvia didn't care much. She loved the cold after all.

After a good hour, the woman came back home and, to her surprise, saw a man waiting in front of her door. Sadly, she knew who it was way too well. His white hairs, sharp eyes, white skin. He looked a lot like Gray, Juvia was always thinking when seeing him.
But surely not as handsome!

She was slightly annoyed when she saw him holding a bouquet of beautiful, blue flowers. She didn't know much about those, but they sure were pretty. A slight blush on her cheeks, she approached him to enter her house, trying to ignore him. But of course he wouldn't let her slip away like that. He never do.

- Hey, Juvia.
-... Good evening, Lyon. Do you have some business with Juvia?
- Yeah well... I thought I should bring you those! They looks beautiful; they remind me of your eyes. I hope you like them.

He hands her the bouquet and a letter along with it. She hesitated a bit before taking them, but finally resigned herself that it would not be very polite to plainly refuse them. She didn't said a word, still too shy to thanks him. Even if she didn't love him, it was a really sweet attention.

- I'm in your way as I can see. I'll be on my way now. See you tomorrow, Juvia!
Lyon said as he walked away, one hand in the air in a "goodbye" sign. She answered in a really small voice so he couldn't hear.

- ... yeah. See you tomorrow.

Once she entered her apartment, Juvia put the flower in a pot of water and hid it in her bedroom. No way is she letting that in her entrance. She then looked at the letter on the little table by her kitchen. She stared at it. A lot. But decided to not open it and hide the envelop in the drawer. Maybe she'll read it later. But not now. He know her for less than a week and he just go out his way to give her flowers? He must be crazy.

- But then again... Juvia is doing exactly this with Gray. But that's OK, because Juvia and him are made for each others, not like Lyon! Pft. He surely don't know what real love is anyway.

Denying every others emotions she could feels, Juvia sat in her bed and stared at the wall in front of her. Being alone was not always funny. But she can't help it: people don't like her. And of course, the only person who she cares for completely ignore her. Life was hard. Maybe she is not made to love. Every other girls are way better than her anyway.

But Lyon...

She shake her head. No. Her heart belong to Gray.

But he love another girl...

She put her hands to cover he ears, like to mute her own thoughts. No, no, no. She's gonna be... the one... for sure...

There's someone out there ready to sweep you off your feet anytime...

-JUVIA DON'T CARE.

Still denying her own feelings, she started screaming. It's been so long since she did it. It almost felt wrong coming from her mouth. Juvia, who is usually so calm. She could feel the emotions acting like a tsunami inside of her body. It was too much to bear. Too much to bear alone.

- WHAT DID JUVIA DO WRONG?!

When her brain, heart, body and soul were exhausted, she lay in her bed, no longer sitting but her hands still on her ears. The first thing her eyes saw was the flower she just received. For some unknown reason, it calmed her. Their blue tint and elegant shape seems to ease her head full of torments. It feels like someone is hugging her tight, reassuring her clouded, troubled heart.

Her eyelids closed smoothly before her tears bring her along in the kingdom of sleep.

- Thank you...


- WHAT?! YOU CAN'T BE SERIOUS!

Was the reaction of the entire building when Erza, doing the first general meeting of the month, announced that their usual office Halloween party wasn't organize by them. Levy was somewhere in the room sitting between Lucy and Gajeel.

- Yeah, um..., for the first time ever, Levy saw Erza scratching her head, sweating. Like, she was nervous. Last month I kind of made a bet with the magazine next door.

Everyone face palmed. Of course. She must have lost it, just to top it off.

- ... and I lost. We sold less copy of our magazine than them. She sighed. So the party will take place in their building and we have to do an article about it. An article about them! In our magazine! I can't believe it...


When the meeting finished, Gajeel was still a bit confused.

- Oi, shrimp. What's the fuss about that Halloween party bullcrap?
- Well... that party is usually a great event here and Fairy Tail magazine always make an article about it. It boost the sells. But it seems like they're gonna have all the attention this year. Oh, Erza...

He scratch his head. He didn't really care about all that anyway. He was the janitor after all. No time to worry about this. Except when Lucy jumped at Levy's neck. Then Gajeel knew... he was screwed. Because she will give Levy ideas. And if she do...

- Hey, Levy, we could go shop for our costumes this weekend! What do you think?!
- Oh! That's such a great idea!
She looks at her tall and masculine friend and wondered what he would look like in a costume. She smirked at him and that devilishly cute face of hers almost made him crack. But he had to stand his ground.

- Are you coming shopping with us, Gajeel?
- Nah... ain't my thing. Everyone's not as small as you, y'know.
- I don't see the point...?
- Ya have the height of a kid, so of course ya wanna costume yerself gihihi.
- Oh stop it you! Stupid Gajeel!

She punched him on the arm, knowing he wasn't feeling anything. He smirked, making Levy even more impatient.

- Watcha want? A shrimp costume would be perfect, hahaha!
- Oh, you would looks sooo cute!, added Lucy.

He started laughing his lung out and Lucy couldn't help but laugh along. The little woman, between the two of them, wasn't amuse at all.

- You're impossible! Both of you! Grrrr!

She balanced her arms in the air and went back to her desk, her angry attitude making her look more cute than anything. Lucy and Gajeel looked at each others, a hint of complicity in their eyes before returning to their respective post.


Juvia was behind them all along but didn't make a word, still moved by yesterday's breakdown. What is she gonna do? Her heart, her mind, nothing seemed to understand each others. She was a big mess. And that's when the man with white hairs came along at her side.

- Good morning, Juvia.
-... Good morning, too.

She didn't have her usual shiny eyes. They were fade and on the verge of tears. Her head was looking at the ground. She felt a bit bad for the poor boy to fall for her. Juvia had nothing for her. She was weird, annoying, shy, creepy...

- Did you love the flowers? Sorry if it seemed a bit too much.
She blushed as she remembered the bouquet she stared at for so long. Must. Not. Say. Anything.

- They are... really pretty. She looked on the side.

He himself had some pink on his cheeks. She complimented something he gave her!

- It's OK... Juvia is just... not use to receive things.
- That's alright. I can bring you whatever you want!

Bring me Gray's love.

But she couldn't say that.

- Thank you but... no thank you. Juvia have everything she needs.
She looks at him and could saw the deception in his eyes. He stayed positive though, ever so smiling at her.

- Alright then. I won't bug you more than that. See you later!
- Yeah...

He went back to whatever he had to do. Juvia, once at her desk, felt like her head was out of the water suddenly. She took a deep breath and looked in her drawer. She had brought the letter with her, just in case. She didn't want to read it yet. Returning to her work, she soon received a text from Lucy.

Hey, wanna come with me and Levy buy halloween costume this weekend?
The blue haired woman smiles. Even if she declared war against her, even if she probably made Lucy's life impossible, she was still asking her to go with them. She... she had real friends. Even if in her opinion she didn't deserve them.

Yeah, of course. It's gonna be fun!

And that was maybe one of the only things keeping her sane.


Every thing that kills me makes me feel alive.


Phew! Finish! The song is "Counting Stars" by One Republic. I hope you liked it,
the next chapter is gonna be a lot goofier a more humoristic. Sorry if this chapter seemed a bit... down?
But hey, we need chapters like that to appreciate the more silly ones, right? ;) Have yourself
a good day and don't forget: You're awesome!