Gajeel could only stare as Levy leapt in the way of the hit, the hit that was meant for him. He'd never felt panic before, but he didn't know what else it could be. What else could make him feel like the world was ending?

He could only watch as Levy fell to her knees, her brown eyes wide with shock and her hand pressed against her side. The metallic scent of blood filled the air and he knew it was her blood. For just a moment time seemed to stop, she looked at him and he felt his heart stop, she was already pale and it made her brown eyes seem all the bigger.

"Gajeel." It was just one word, but it restarted time. He roar and shot himself at the idiot that thought to harm Levy. He didn't bother using his magic, his fists and anger were enough. The second the man stopped moving Gajeel was off of him and at Levy's side. Her breathing was shallow and she looked too pale.

"It's going to be okay," he said. It had to be okay.

"Gajeel," she said again, turning her head to cough.

"Shh," he breathed. "Just rest. Wendy will be here soon."

The look she gave him said she didn't believe him, but she let her eyes slip shut. He brushed his mouth over each lid, ignoring the sting of tears in his eyes.

He cradled Levy against his chest and squeezed his eyes shut.

It was going to be okay.

Wendy would be there soon.