Levy could barely keep her eyes open as her head nodded forward for a moment before snapping back. Between her going on late night dates with Gajeel and reading the latest novel she acquired from the bookshop, she wasn't getting much sleep lately. But it was just too early for her to be translating at work, just getting up this morning she looked like a zombie with her blue hair sticking out in every direction. Bare feet were shuffling slowly across the cold wooden floor of her apartment in her attempt to get ready to head out the door. Getting dressed in a simple pair of jeans and yellow short sleeved blouse before walking out the door with her brown ankle boots on, the crisp morning air brushing against her cheeks signaled the beginning of Autumn. Luckily for her, Lucy also worked at the university with her, so she was able to catch a nap while her friend drove. But even with that short amount of sleep seemed to be in vain as the words on the papers in front of her started to blur together an hour after getting to her little office.
A gentle knock on her door caught her attention, pulling her eyes away from her papers she saw Lucy standing in the doorway. "Hey." Levy felt herself perking up at seeing her friend especially when she saw the brown paper bag she was holding up.
"Just thought you might need a pastry to keep you going." Lucy was smiling for a moment before handing Levy the baked goodie. She sat down on the corner of Levy's permanently messy desk. "I would've gotten us some coffee, but their machine is down, and they're trying to fix it." She let out a small sigh while Levy devoured the doughnut, Lucy could only assume she skipped breakfast. "Teaching the morning class is going to be rough." Rubbing her temples with her fingers, she could only imagine just nodding off in the middle of a lecture.
Levy could only give her a weak smile, at least she had the privacy of her office to deal with how tired she was unlike Lucy talking to a classroom of writing students. "It'll be alright. I'm sure your students will be just as tired as we are." Both of them couldn't suppress the laughter that erupted between them. "I bet half your students get their coffee here so you won't be alone."
Nodding her head in agreement Lucy had to wipe a tear from laughing a little too hard. "Oh, I've been wondering how you and Gajeel been, heard from Juvia that your date last week went very well." Lucy teased Levy who was trying not blush. "Any juicy details to make my morning better." Wiggling her eyebrow in a cheesy attempt, knowing it took some prodding to get information out of her blue-haired friend.
Levy couldn't help but blush slightly at remembering that night. "Well, he drove us to his house after dinner…" Levy could see Lucy's eyes beaming, obviously wanting her to continue. "Got a little steamy while kissing and carried me to his bed….. waving her hands in front of her. "But….Juvia called and needed some help, so it didn't go any further."
Lucy just pushed Levy's shoulder lightly. "Still Levy, you've been getting out of your shell since you've two started dating." Hoping off the desk, Lucy adjusted the black skirt she was wearing. "Well, I gotta go, can't keep my class waiting now can I?"
Levy watched as her friend bounded out the room and closing the door behind her as she left, leaving Levy with her work still laying on the desk before her. After getting something sugary to eat and some girl talk, she seemed to have the energy actually to get something done. A small chime came from her phone, unlocking the screen she couldn't help but smile at seeing who sent her a text.
"Morning."
Tucking a hair back, Levy responded back to Gajeel's text. "Morning my love.~" Placing the phone back down on the desk, she was able to translate a sentence before it chimed again, reading the text, he was asking how her morning was going. "The coffee machine is down to give you an idea how it's going."
"No caffeine to fuel that big brain of yours? That must be rough for you and blondie."
She could imagine the odd laugh that would've escaped him if he was there in person. Levy couldn't help the small snort escape, her hand covering her mouth quickly. While the door of her office was closed, didn't mean anyone else couldn't hear the noise.
"Give me twenty minutes, gonna bring your favorite to wake yeah up."
She swore her heart did a flip when she read his text, each day she was falling more and more in love with Gajeel. Even with their busy schedules, he seemed to make the time they had together really special. With a smile on her face, Levy resumed translating the ancient text to pass the time.
A blend of orange and yellow leaves crunched under the soles his boots as Gajeel got out of his muscle car. Usually, the cold weather outside was perfect for riding his motorcycle; it wasn't the best way to transport hot coffee. With said beverages in a cardboard cup holder in one hand and the other in the pocket of the leather jacket he was wearing, he headed towards the university's library. Walking into the building, he got some looks from some of the students and staff. Gajeel knew that he didn't exactly look like the type of person that would frequent the library, it would surprise most people that were quite the opposite but ignoring them he pressed on till he reached Levy's office.
Grasping the doorknob, Gajeel opened the door without a noise. His hand stopped just as he was going to knock on the frame of the door, and he was unprepared for the sight before him. Levy just looked adorable while absently nibbling on the end of the ballpoint pen she was holding in her hand. Stepping all the way into the office, the sound of the door clicking shut behind him grabbed her attention. Just the way her brown eyes looked at him when she pulled them away from the papers scattered all over the oak desk, the pen still parting her pink lips just caused something inside him to snap. Without another second to waste, he placed the coffee on top of the file cabinet next to him. Gajeel couldn't help pulling her out of her chair and into his arms causing her to squeak, and the pen fell to the floor all but forgotten as Levy looked up at him in surprise.
"Gajeel what are you-" He pressed his lips against her, effectively stifling whatever she was about to say. Levy's petite hands pressed into his chest for a moment before moving under the leather jacket, fingers skimming up the soft fabric underneath. "This needs to come off." While she wasn't quite expecting Gajeel to pull away from her work, a nip against her lips sent a jolt through her body, effectively waking her up more than any shot of espresso could. So she didn't mind the sudden turn of events as Gajeel leaned her back slightly with one arm supporting her.
Both of them pulled back so they could catch their breath, foreheads touching looked how red her cheeks were."Just so beautiful." He murmured out before tilting his head and closing the small space between them once again. Using his other arm to sweep off the papers on her desk off, not caring where they fluttered down to the floor. Lifting Levy up with his strong arms and placing her on the desktop. Without breaking the kiss he shrugged off the jacket, so it fell to the floor with a heavy thud, exposing the red shirt that was underneath.
Levy pulled back slightly so she could have a moment to catch her breath, her chest heaving slightly. "This is so much better than coffee." Cupping his face in her hands, she pulled him back into the kiss. Gajeel leaned her body back, effectively pinning her to the desk with his muscular body. She can feel herself getting more and more excited when he kissed down her neck before biting down, and she couldn't help that gasp that escaped her. "Gajeel." Usually, she would fuss at him for leaving such a visible mark on her without any means to cover it up, but that thought went out the window when he placed a gentle kiss on the same spot.
Using her hands she pushed at his shoulders hard with all the strength she had, causing him to sit back in the very chair she was pulled out of just moments ago. A small amount of confusion flashed across Gajeel's face before she straddled his lap, Levy was lucky that her chair was big enough to hold the both of them. Avoiding his lips, she tilted her head so she could kiss down his neck before biting down. She could hear Gajeel hissing slightly at the action, his hands finding purchase on her hips when she gently sucked on the spot. Pulling back she was satisfied seeing the small but dark hickey the stood out against his tanned skin. "Gihee." Gajeel took advantage of Levy's distraction and leaned forward and capturing her lips again. He ignored the faint footsteps that he that were coming from down the hall and deepening the kiss while Levy wrapped her arms around his neck.
"Miss McGarden, I need to talk to you..." Freed just froze when he opened the door to her office, nearly dropping the folder he was holding. Out of habit, he didn't even bother to knock. Usually, she would be so deep in her translations that she would hear it. However, seeing Levy straddling a pierced man double the size of her small frame made him wish that he did.
Levy's head pulled away from Gajeel's so it could snap around to see the green haired man's stunned face. "Mr. Justine?!" She scrambled off of Gajeel's lap out of embarrassment, and he followed suit by standing up from her chair. Levy wasn't expecting the head of her department to do a surprise visit. She could see Freed shifting his eyes from herself to her boyfriend behind her. "Um...this is Gajeel Redfox...my boyfriend." Seeing her boss furrowing his eyebrows, she dreaded the worst that could happen.
"Where do I know you from?" Freed mumbled out while rubbing his chin with his hand. After a couple of tense moments, it dawned on him where he had seen the dark-haired man standing behind Levy with his arms crossed. Snapping his fingers, he nodded his head. "Ah, I've seen you perform at the Dragons Den." Ignoring the shocked look on both of their faces, Freed pulled a paper from the folder and handed it to Levy. "I came to your office to talk to you about getting these translations done before the end of the week. Just...lock the door next time, don't need the dean walking in on you two going at it." With that small piece of advice, he took his leave and left to return to his office.
"That was weird." Levy was flipping the paper over in her hand, unsure what just happened.
Gajeel just huffed slightly. "What, that your boss goes to the strip club I work at or the fact that he isn't getting us in trouble?" Levy turned around to face him, shrugging her shoulders slightly.
"Both." Giving a sad smile, Levy leaned up on her tiptoes and placed a kiss on his cheek. "I don't want you to go but-" Opening up the paper she could see a long list of translations, some of them would take most of the workday. "-looks like they are putting a lot on my plate today."
Gajeel glanced at the list she was holding, he nodded his head. "Not your fault gotta head to work anyway." Reaching over to the filing cabinet, he handed her still hot coffee while getting his cup and kissing her on her forehead. "See you later."
"Wait, don't forget your jacket." Levy placed her cup down on her desk so she could quickly bend down to pick up the leather piece of clothing off the floor.
He just smirked slightly and shook his head. "Keep it. Leather would look good on you." He could help but laugh somewhat at seeing his tiny girlfriend's face turned red. She was too adorable sometimes, and he couldn't help messing with her before walking out of her office.
"Laxus, got a moment?" Lily walking up the large blond man sitting at the bar with some coffee, most of the Dragons Den's entertainment staff was present at the club for the weekly meeting. Laxus just gave him a slight nod before gesturing to the empty seat next to him. While Laxus and himself weren't best of friends, they were able to work together as professionals. "It's time." Lily's eyes were sweeping the main room for Gajeel who still has yet to arrive or at least make his presence known. "Everything needs to be set in motion."
Laxus took a sip from the mug sitting in front of him. "Still don't see why I must be part of this." He huffed out in slight irritation at the very fact. Mira somehow got himself roped him into Levy's plan and found no way of getting out if no matter how hard he tried. "Also why I have to bring it up, Erza already gave you guys the go ahead."
"Because your the only person that wouldn't tip off Gajeel that something is going on." Lily was now feeling secure in the surroundings that his friend was not there to finally take the seat next to Laxus and lean back against the bar. "If Mira or Erza suggested it, he would try to figure out what they had planned, and the same goes for me." Leaning towards Laxus slightly with his elbow on the bar, he couldn't help the cat-like smile that stretched across his face. "Beside's it's not like your on the receiving end of what Gajeel's going to experience, in fact, you might be pretty amused."
"Fair point." Laxus shrugging slightly before finishing off the rest of his drink before sliding off his seat to stand up. "It better be worth it." He comments over his shoulder as he walked towards the door to backstage.
"Oh, it will." Lily chuckled for a moment before seeing Gajeel walk through the door leading from the back of the building, black and gray backpack slung over his shoulder. Lily glanced over at the clock across the room, and it was time to get moving to the meeting. Pushing himself from the bartop, he was leaning against and caught up with his studded friend. "Your a little later than usual, what's up with that?" He commented, Gajeel just merely shrugged his shoulders at the question while heading to the meeting. "Got behind this morning that's all."
Lily, didn't believe that poor excuse for one second but something caught the corner of his eye when Gajeel adjusted the strap of the backpack. That action caused the collar of his red shirt to shift slightly to reveal a small dark spot on Gajeel's neck. "Ah, I see, got distracted this morning by your girlfriend." Lily laughed somewhat before raising his finger and pointing out the hickey. That action caused Gajeel to cover the mark back up with his collar, and even in the dark hallway, Lily could see the slight blush appearing on his friend's cheeks.
"Fine, I thought it be nice to bring Levy some coffee to her at work." He couldn't help but smirk as the recent morning events ran through his head. "She was all alone in her office and well...we may have gotten carried away." He said with some amusement in his voice.
Lily clapped a hand on Gajeel's shoulder and let out a hearty laugh. "I can see that." Patting his friend's shoulder before entering the dressing room, they appeared to be the last ones to arrive, but their usual spots on the black sofa were left untouched.
"Alright, guys." Erza clapped her hands together to gain the attention of everyone currently present in the large dressing room. "Time to discuss the routines for tomorrow." At that announcement, her assistant Wendy approached her and handed her a black folder before standing next to her. "Thank you." While most would be surprised to see that such a young person worked for her, but Wendy was a smart young lady that graduated early from school, and Erza couldn't help but take her under her wing.
Taking a quick glance around the room, she was satisfied that everyone was paying attention. "Based on the numbers Wendy put together we've been doing well, however with bachelorette season slowing down, we need something the keep the crowds coming in." Opening the folder, Erza glanced at some of the written ideas or suggestions various customers had left for them. "Ok, we have the usual requests, more men in uniforms stripping, another Tarzan/wild man request...and one I shouldn't say out loud." Unable to hide the slight blush that appeared on her face, she had to clear her throat with a cough before continuing. "Anyone have an idea they want to share?" Erza asked before closing the folder with a snap.
"I've got one!" Natsu face breaking out into a grin while sitting on top of the dressing room table. "It's a bomb squad dance routine." Everyone just stared at the pink haired man with a skeptical look on their faces. "What?" Crossing his arms and huffing slightly. "I'm allowed to have some ideas don't involve fire." Frowning as no one seemed to believe him for a second. "Fine then, jerks."
Everyone started to pop off one idea or another, each being shot down or had to be thought upon at a later date until Laxus pulled himself from the wall he was leaning against and took a step forward. "A prisoner/officer act." The room was silent for a moment be he hear a snort coming from the side. Laxus snapped his head to the one person that could piss him of without really trying.
Gajeel.
"Not a new idea, besides when did you start getting involved with the acts?" Gajeel was leaning forward from his seat, one hand resting on his knee. "Or being a bouncer not any fun anymore?"
Laxus just glared at the overly cocky man before turning his attention back to Erza who was patiently waiting. "I overheard it from a VIP that came last week, and she's having a big birthday party and wants to have it here with all her friends." It took himself some effort to keep his eye from twitching in annoyance. "We got the costumes and props already, combine them. Gajeel can be the prisoner, and someone else could be the cop."
"Hey hold on there a second, I do the police roles around this place you lightning bas-"
Erza effectively cut off whatever response that was about to come from Gajeel with a wave of her hand, causing him to sit back into the plush couch. "That sounds good." She ignored Gajeel crossing his arms and glaring daggers at Laxus. "It would spice things up without putting any stress on the finances, and it can be put together quickly."
"So who's going to be the cop?" Rouge questioned from his spot in the back of the room. "Got to be someone that could hold the prisoner back otherwise it wouldn't make sense, even if it's just an act." His dance partner Sting was sitting on the stool next to him while nodding his head in agreement.
"I vote for Laxus." Sting not even hesitating to raise his hand. A few others followed suit, much to the horror of Gajeel and Laxus. The blond man shot a look at Lily who only sat with a sly grin on his face before shifting his attention back to Gajeel. For most people, the tension between the two men would cause most to fear the worst. But a chough from Erza quickly snuffed all possibility of a fist fight out.
"Alright, it's settled then, you two come up with an act today." Erza gave Lily a slight nod before turning around having been satisfied the meeting went well. "Everyone knows what to do now if anyone needs me I will be in my office." Wendy followed closely behind as Erza exited the room and down the hall.
"Um, Ms. Scarlet is it wise to have those two in a routine together? I mean they don't get along together, and Laxus doesn't do dancing and-. Before Wendy could continue voicing her concerns to her boss, Erza quickly turned around to face her.
"Don't worry about it." Erza was reassuring Wendy by placing her arm around the girl's shoulders and leading her into the small office. "I trust that they will both with manage to keep it together especially with Lily overseeing it." Pulling back her arm so Wendy could sit down in the seat in front of the large wooden desk, Erza taking her place and reclining back in her chair. "As for Laxus, I would imagine the role of a police officer for the act would not be a such a big stretch for him."
Wendy just nodded her head slightly, while she trusted her boss she couldn't help but feel like Erza was holding back something. "Ok..if you say so."
Gajeel was fuming. He promptly left the building the second the meeting was over, slamming the car door shut to let out some of his frustration after he slid into the driver's seat. While he can work with most customer requests, this was way out of his comfort zone. He just glared hard at the reflection in the rearview mirror knowing he needed to get his head on straight before driving anywhere. The last thing he needed was to get into an accident because he was careless, so he merely counted the bricks in the building across the street knowing that would work. Lately, he got so used to texting Levy when he got into this state of mind. Her soothing messages seemed to subdue the anger he was feeling, especially hearing her sweet voice if she called instead. But he had to remind himself that she was probably busy with work so he had to settle for doing the most boring thing he could do at the moment. He didn't even bother to look when the passenger door opened; he knew who it was that took a seat.
"I can only assume you're glaring a hole in the rearview mirror for a reason?" Lily commented as he closed the car door and leaning back against the leather seat.
Uncrossing his arms once he felt the majority of the anger dissipating, Gajeel turned his head slightly to look at Lily. "You know why." Digging the keys out of his pocket and putting it in the ignition, with a twist of the wrist, the engine roaring to life. "Laxus and I don't exactly get along, and two he's taking my role as well." Both of them buckled their seat belts before Gajeel backed the car out onto the street and heading off without a particular destination in mind. "I don't know about you, but this is all very suspicious." Shaking his head slightly, he kept his eyes on the road ahead of them.
Lily had to do his best not to sweat, and he needed to distract Gajeel before he decided to dig a little deeper. "I've overheard Mira talking to him last week that he should start sharing what he overhears ideas from customers about what they would like to see." Tapping his foot on the floor while he was trying to come up with would make sense. "That maybe he would get a promotion if the idea brought in a lot of jewels."
Gajeel just nodded his head slightly in agreement. He knew Laxus was looking for a way to move up in the club, so that did make some sense. "Yeah..." Smirking slightly as a pleasant thought came to mind. "Bet he didn't think that he would get roped into that idea though." He could help but laugh with Lily joining in, just the image of Laxus scowling on stage watching as Gajeel pulled in the Jewels warmed his heart slightly.
Lily was quite relieved that Gajeel was satisfied with the answer. Hopefully, it was enough to keep to him from digging any deeper into the real intentions of the plan for the rest of the week. "So, let's grab some lunch before heading back figure out the act." Pulling out his wallet from his back pocket and waving it slightly so Gajeel can see it out of the corner of his eye. "It'll be on me." Lily knew that his friend could clear out a buffet like most of the performers at the Dragons Den, so he knew what he is getting into by offering to pay for lunch.
"Alright but remember you offered." Gajeel was laughing as he drove in the direction of a restaurant they both enjoyed. Lily just shook his head before leaning back into his seat, already feeling his wallet aching. "I know."
Levy felt like she was on a cloud the rest of her day especially after getting caffeine in her system. After Gajeel left for work, she put on the leather jacket he told her she could keep even though it was double the size she would usually wear. The inside was still a little warm when she pulled it close, pressing her nose to the collar of the jacket she could smell the distinct scent that was him. Having finished her work, Levy stretched her arms above her head in an attempt to help her sore back from sitting hunched over the desk for most of the day. "Mmh finally." Standing up from her chair, Levy hummed to herself as she gathered the translations into a folder to give to Freed. Picking up her purse along with a small gym bag that was under her desk, she slung it over her shoulder before heading out of her office and down the hallway. Knocking on the door, hearing the muffled "come in"she stepped into the office. "All done." Handing the folder to Freed, she smiled at him. "See you tomorrow." Freed returned the gesture before she turned right around to leave.
Even with the sun shining high in the sky when she stepped out of the Library, having his jacket on kept her arms warm from the crisp cold air was nice. Heading off campus with her stuff in tow, she hailed a cab. Climbing into the back of the car and giving the driver the address of the destination, her phone let out of a stream of chimes quickly from its spot in her purse indicating several texts coming in a once. Getting her phone out, she promptly swiped the lock screen open to find out what was happening.
"Just giving you a head's up Gajeel is not very happy right now." -Lily
Levy read the next message that Lily sent her that was posted a minute after the first.
"We got the plan rolling for next week. Also, Laxus is not happy too, but it was necessary to leave him out on that part, or he would've never had done it." -Lily
She felt a little sad doing this to Gajeel, but for what she had plan required it to be a surprise. Levy knew that he was a smart man if she even let on that something was happening it wouldn't take him much to figure out what was going on. Holding the phone to her chest and taking a deep breath to calm her nerves. "Don't worry about it. He will love it in the end." She reassured herself, Levy still felt guilty for the way they met ended, but once she springs her surprise, it should be more than enough to make up for it.
"Don't worry. Everything is fine." - Lily
Levy texted him back that she understood before putting the phone away in her purse. A few minutes later, the taxi stopped at the destination she requested, handing the driver his payment she got out to the car to see Mira waiting for her. "Sorry I'm a little later than usual, but I got over here as fast as I could." Levy was scratching the back of her head with a sheepish smile on her face. "Got a little swamped with paperwork."
"It's alright." Mira smiled back before leading Levy into the building, going up a flight of stairs they walked into a small dance studio. "What I was going to teach you today shouldn't take too long." Grasping the edge of her loose shirt and pulling up to reveal the workout clothing she had underneath. "This may be physically easier than our previous lessons, but..-" Placing the clothing on a bench, Mira held up a finger as Levy pulled out her work out clothing out of her gym bag. "-acting can be just as hard, especially if your nerves start acting up."
"I know...but trust me I'll nail it otherwise it will put these last couple of months to waste." Levy stepped into the small changing area in the corner of the room. Hesitantly pulling off Gajeel's jacket and placing it on the chair before changing into the forest green workout clothes. Taking a glance in the mirror that reached the floor, she could see the small physical changes, especially in her legs. From working with Mira, her body overall looked a little bit more toned, but she still looked like herself which made her happy. Just as she was about to step out of the changing area, she grasped the jacket and pulled it on again. "Would it be ok if I kept this on?"
Mira looked at the jacket Levy was holding close to her body, and she knew whose it was just from looking at it. "Yes, we could use it to practice the choreography." Walking over to the side of the room, she pressed a button on the stereo causing music to fill the room. "You got the costume we needed right?" She questioned Levy, who only nodded before running over to her gym bag.
"Yes, it took some convincing but..-" Levy pulled out a blue outfit to show Mira who only smiled evilly in approval at seeing it. "I managed to get the last one they had available in my size." Quickly stuffing the item of clothing back into the bag so she could return to the center of the room where Mira was standing, she was wringing her hands from the nerves that were bubbling up. "I was hoping to get some practice in it, the last thing I need to happen is to fall on my face."
Mira was happy that Levy brought up that idea before she could suggest it. "Of course, that would help figure out what moves that we can or cannot add to the routine. Now let's get started." Smiling at Levy before turning to face the mirrors to begin the warm-up routine. "If you mess up, make something up. Only you know the choreography and not the audience. Remember to be confident with every move you do, no matter how simple it may be."
"Yes, be confident." Levy was mentally taking that to heart as they began as they began their lesson.
Stopping back at her apartment, Levy just tossed her stuff onto the small couch before shrugging out of the leather jacket and draping it over the back of the cushion. Her muscles felt a little sore but better than the first time she came back home after working with Mira. Pulling off her boots, she can see the sun was starting to dip in the sky when she looked out the window. "I don't think he would mind me stopping by early." Feeling excited at the idea of surprising Gajeel at work before they go on their date. But first, she needed to take a quick shower since she still smelled a little sweaty. Grasping the hem of her yellow shirt, she slowly peeled it off her slightly sticky body. Humming to herself, Levy moved her body to the beat wholly lost in her little world. The shirt was tossed to the side as she twirled around with a smile on her face. Levy could understand why he enjoyed his job. It was freeing to be yourself or even to be someone else for a moment.
Hips were rolling side to side as she peeled her jeans off, Levy could only imagine a pair of hungry red eyes watching. Even more so when she bent over slightly to step out of them, curious of what would've been the reaction she would've gotten out of Gajeel if he was there. Would he lick his lips hungry and wait patiently or simple pounce on her like prey. Despite it just only being her imagination, she could feel her heart beating quickly in her chest. Only when she stepped into her shower after removing the rest of the clothing did it finally calm down. The warm water washed away the sticky feeling on her skin. It didn't take long for her to get clean, cutting off the water and stepping out onto the mat next to the shower. Levy rubbed herself down with a fluffy white towel, but before she stepped out of the bathroom, she drew a small smiley face in the fogged mirror. It was a silly habit, but she couldn't resist creating something that would only disappear after awhile.
Making her way over to the closet, Levy pulled out a white lace dress to wear that also matched the white headband. She was about to walk back to the living room to put the boots that she was wearing earlier back on, but at seeing the leather jacket, she had a different idea. Digging through the quite messy closet and found the black pair of ankle boots that she had. Putting them on and looking into the floor length mirror, Levy was pleased with the look of the outfit. Using her phone she requested a ride, and thankfully it didn't take long before the app pinged that the driver was there. So Levy slung her purse over her shoulder and patting it, happy that she plenty of Jewels on her. "Might catch part of his performance."
It didn't take long before the driver dropped her off outside of the Dragons Den, pushing the heavy door open she ran into the chest of the person that was leaving, an arm wrapped around her waist kept her from falling. "Levy? You're here early." The gruff voice that she knew anywhere, looking up to see Gajeel all dressed in the same clothes he was wearing earlier. "Hey." Regaining her footing, Levy stood on her tiptoes and kissed him on his cheek. "I could say the same to you. I wanted to surprise you."
Gajeel just chuckled slightly and adjusted his arm so they could turn and walk down the sidewalk side by side. "Same here." He took a moment to admire the glow of the sunset shining on her face. "Did my performance early so I could get off early and get you flowers." Levy looked up at him in curiosity. "To make up for having our dates so late at night." He could feel his cheeks turning red when she smiled and leaned into his side as they walked.
"You don't have to do that, I'm happy with whatever time we get together, but it's sweet that you were going to do that." Levy was hugging his waist to reassure him that she didn't mind. It was quite peaceful as they walked, only the occasional car breaking the comfortable silence between them. Gajeel was running his fingers over the leather jacket as she took in the warmth that seemed to be radiating off him despite the cool air around them. He paused when they were going to walk past a shop that had some flowers in containers outside. An older woman was bringing in the flowers when Gajeel walked them closer. "Are you closed?" The women just shook her head at Gajeel's question and smiled at seeing them holding each other so close. "Of course not dear, I'm guessing you would like some roses for your wife?" She only chuckled at seeing how red both of them got. "Ah sorry, girlfriend I see."
Gajeel scratched the back of his head as he nodded. "Yes, I would like some roses." The older women's hands worked quickly, luckily for them she didn't put all her supplies away, so it didn't take long for her experience hands to wrap up a bouquet of roses. "Here you go." Gajeel handed her the Jewels for the flowers before taking them and handing them to Levy. "Have good date dearies." She returned to her work as they continued to walk down the street, towards the restaurant they were going to meet.
Levy couldn't help but admire the red roses, bringing them up to her face she took a smell of the flowers. "These are wonderful, thank you." Gajeel grinned and held her close when they got closer to the restaurant.
"Anything for you."
The dinner was more than what she could ever imagine. Levy gave into Gajeel insisting that she order whatever she wanted. She felt terrible that he paid for every meal since they started dating but when she offered to pay, he just merely shook his head and ordered them some drinks. "Don't worry, had a good payday today." Grasping the glass and taking a big gulp of the beer he requested for himself. Levy just nodded and enjoyed the wine, after that she enjoyed the best seafood dish she had in a long time, the sweet buttery flavor of the scallops coating her taste buds was such a delight. But after her second full glass of wine she was starting to feel a little too happy as the effects of the alcohol were beginning to hit.
Thankfully Levy had Gajeel to protect and support her as they walked back to the club. She couldn't help but slip her hand underneath his shirt, causing him to stiffen slightly. "Mh what do you say we go back to your place," Levy suggested, she may be very buzzed right now, but she knew what she was saying, just no filter to keep her from expressing what she wanted. "We never did finish what we started last week." Gajeel had to bite back a groan, while the idea was tempting, but she then lost her balance when her foot caught on the sidewalk which killed any idea of that even happening. "I love to but-" Bending his knees slightly he scooped her into his arms. "I don't want to take advantage of you like this, so I'm taking you home." Continuing to walk them around the corner and over to his car parked behind the building.
"Wait." Levy gripped at his shirt causing him to stop and look down at her slightly flushed face. "I don't want to sleep alone." He could see that she was processing something in her head but wasn't sure what to say. "Could you stay with me tonight?" Her request was bouncing around in his head, debating if his self-control would be enough or would he snap like he did earlier that day. "Please." She pleaded and looked up at him, and he couldn't say no to that, Gajeel nodded his head which earned him a smile. "I can do that."
"Thank you." Levy could feel her eyes dropping as sleep finally claimed her, only the jingling of keys woke her up. Opening her eyes and looking around she could see Gajeel fumbling with her keys to get the door open but also holding her against him at the same time. Finally, he succeeded and pushed the door slightly before using his foot to opening it all the way. Her floors squeak somewhat under his weight, having been in her apartment before Gajeel knew where the bedroom was.
"Wait, I can walk." Her head felt much less dizzy than it was before when her feet met the floor before. She toed off her boots and walked into her room with Gajeel behind her after he did the same. Levy peeled off the jacket and draped it over the small reading chair in her room before grasping the hem of her dress. Looking over her shoulder she could see that he was taking off his shirt, back muscles just rippling as they moved. Even after all this time, she couldn't believe she was dating a beast of a man, shaking her head she pulled off the dress and pulled her PJs out of her dresser. Gajeel slipped into the bed after stepping out of his jeans, leaving him only in his boxers. He nuzzled the soft blue hair when she got into the bed and cuddled up to him. He could hear the soft yawn that escaped her. "I love you." Gajeel swore time slowed down when Levy said those words for the first time, looking down he could see her eyes were drooping once again with sleep. "Love you too." It felt effortless to say that back to her, Gajeel knew she heard him when a small smile spread across her face before sleep once again claimed her.
Sun shone brightly through her windows, covering her eyes she could feel her head aching slightly. Slowly she sat up from the mattress. She could see that Gajeel was missing from the bed. Levy also noted that his shirt and pants were missing from the floor. "Guess he left." Levy slid off the bed so she could get some clothing on, as she was putting on some jeans and a green shirt a tempting smell caught her attention. Opening her door and walking out of her room she could see a stack of pancakes and a bottle of syrup sitting on the kitchen countertop. Getting closer she could see a piece of paper next to the plate with a message scrawled on it.
Had to go to work, needed to rehearse a new act this morning for tonight. But here is some food to help with that hangover you probably have.
-Gajeel
Levy didn't hesitate to drizzle the syrup over the pancakes before picking up a fork and devouring it. "Mhm if he wasn't a stripper he definitely could be a chef." She mused to herself and took another bite of the fluffy sweet food. While continuing to eat she dug through her purse that was sitting on the chair next to her, she could only assume Gajeel put it there so she could find it the next day. Levy took another bite as she unlocked her phone and created a group message so both Juvia and Lucy would get it.
"Meet me at The Dragons Den tonight at eight. You guys have to be there."
Finishing the last of the food, Levy hopped off the stool so she could clean and put her plate away. She was a little nervous but today was the day she was going to put her plan into action. So picking up a book she decided the best way to pass the time was with a good book.
"Hey, Juvia." Lucy was walking over to her friend had just gotten out of a taxi that stopped right in front of the club as fast as she could after parking right across the street. "Levy here yet? Her text was pretty vague as to why she wanted us here." Juvia only shook her head and held her clutch to her chest. "No idea, but she hasn't returned any other texts Juvia had sent after that." Rubbing her hand as the cold breeze picked up. "Let's go inside. Levy could be waiting at the bar."
Pushing the doors open, the inside of the Dragons Den was pleasantly warm compared to the temperature outside. Even though the club just opened an hour ago, there were plenty of women ogling at the dancer on stage. They were about to head towards the bar when a person tapped Lucy on her shoulder causing her to look behind her. She recognized the white-haired women when she saw her. "Oh, I remember you. Mira right?"
"Yes, been awhile hasn't it." Mira was slightly tilting her head and smiling before gesturing towards the stage. "Levy reserved some front row seats for both of you, so follow me please." Leading the confused pair until they reached the front, removing the sign marked reserved so they could sit down at the table. Mira could see Juvia eyeing the empty chair next to her. "Don't worry. I'm sure she will be here soon." Glancing towards the bar, she could see her sister currently being swamped with orders. "Well enjoy the show." Mira turned around to walk back to the bar to help out Lisanna.
After a short break between the performances were over and the stage lights dimmed once again, the announcer Loke stepped onto the stage with the spotlight following as he moved. "Alright ladies I have an unfortunate announcement, our Officer Black Steel is in jail.." He paused for dramatic effect, several members of the audience gasping in shock at hearing the news before he continued. "But luckily for us, it's just for stealing some hearts." Loke winked at the audience causing a few women to scream in excitement. " So Officer Dryer, bring him out."
The curtain the covering the middle of the stage revealed a small prison with Gajeel standing in the middle of it with his head tipped forward, so he was looking at the floor. He wore an orange prison outfit while his hands currently handcuffed together. Laxus walked onto the stage loosely holding the baton in his hand, his outfit was similar to the police costume Gajeel would wear, but it was all black. Using the weapon, he ran it across the bars effectively gaining the attention of Gajeel causing his head to snap up and glare back angrily at him. Irritated at the response Laxus couldn't help but grit his teeth together. Quickly he moved the baton into the prison, so it was pressed hard under Gajeel's chin giving him no choice but to lean his head back. "Don't get smart with me." Laxus hissed out lowly so only Gajeel could hear him before pulling back his arm. The audience couldn't help get excited when he unhooked the key ring from his belt and opening the door before he grabbed Gajeel by the arm and moving him out of prison. "Exercise time, use it wisely." It took some effort, but he kept to the role he was playing as he unlocked the cuffs from the prisoner and attached it back to his belt.
Gajeel rubbed at his wrists with his hands, still unhappy at the fact Laxus slapped them when they took their places backstage and not quite caring that they were slightly too tight on him. Glaring at the tall man as his back was to him when he walked away to stand off to the side. Stepping closer to the front of the stage, he could make out the two faces sitting the closest despite the bright stage lights. "Juvia...and Lucy? Why are they here?" He was about to scan the room to see if Levy was somewhere else, but the beat of the music came flowing out of the speakers, and he had his job to do.
Forcing the orange sleeves of the costume up, he flexed his muscles to earn a few squeals of joy from the audience before pulling the top open to reveal a sculpted chest underneath. Twisting his hips to the beat of the music Gajeel took a couple of quick steps before dropping to his knees and sliding over to a group of women sitting right next to the stage, each one of them wearing a birthday hat. Hopping up slightly so he could plant his feet onto the floor, he leaned back with one arm and while the other went to his hair as he rolled his hips knowing that would work the audience into a frenzy. Gajeel smirked as the jewels were starting to land on stage, shifting onto his back while so he could do a pop-up to show off his skills.
Walking down the steps of the stage and finding a lady to tease with his move's when a shrill sound of a whistle made him cringe. Looking back, he could see Laxus approaching him quickly with the long strides of his legs, Gajeel ran the act through his head confused about why he was skipping to the end. Unfortunately, he didn't have much time to think about it before 'Officer Dryer' roughly grabbed his shoulder and pinned it to the table. The ladies gasped in surprise, however, they just thought it was part of the act. "What the hell?!" Gajeel cursed at Laxus who only ignored him and placed the cuffs back on, the metal biting into the skin once again.
"You tried to escape and now have to face the consequences." Laxus responded back with a smug grin on his face. Yanking Gajeel back up from the table and moving towards the stage, he had had a strong grip since his prisoner was trying to escape it while walking up the steps. Reaching center stage, he used his foot nudge the back of Gajeel's knee's with his feet to force him into a kneeling position. Laxus watched as Gajeel looked back slightly, red eyes trying to bore a hole into his head.
"Bring her out." Laxus barked out causing the room to fall silent. Only the click of a pair of black pumps could be heard walking across the stage after the lights dimmed again. Confused murmurs came from the audience when a woman walked on stage wearing a police costume. When the person stopped in front of him, Gajeel turned his head away from Laxus only to be surprised at seeing the person in front of him. "Levy?" A small dainty hand caressed his chin for a moment before closing his mouth that fell open in shock.
"That's Warden to you Mr. Black Steel." Levy teased before winking playfully. "Or did you forget you stole my heart?"