Hi everyone!
So… this is late. I know. Let the beatings commence. BUT! Not sure anyone noticed but the story got new cover art thanks to the seriously talented Paperhana. She did an amazing job and captured Lucy in Laxus' shirt hehehe. So please give her a huge hug for being so amazing! Thank you, hun for the awesome picture! It's beautiful and I love it :)
But! Onto the reading!
Chapter 9 - Warning
Lucy reached for the heavy guild hall doors and winced at the soreness in her arms and back. Actually, her whole body was sore. She felt as though she'd been run the hell over by a train. It wasn't very surprising, four rounds of rigorous, aggressive sex with the Thunder God himself would do that to a girl. The bruises she'd caught sight of in the bathroom mirror's reflexion had not been a shock either. They littered her back, ass and thighs - one was clearly the imprint of his large hand. It would never come from her lips, at least not in the presence of anyone else, but she could admit the little reminders had turned her on.
He was a beast in the sack and she had zero complaints. Before him, Mystogan had by far been the best she'd ever been with. That little accident from heaven, as she had frequently referred to him as, had rocked the hell out of her world. He'd introduced her to a plethora of variety where sex was concerned. Pleasure, pain and everything in between, he had an uncanny ability to reduce her to sheer putty in his hand. Good lord could he play her body like a fine-tuned instrument. Long after his return to Edolas, he had still been her favorite fantasy subject. But not even that glorious man and his expert knowledge of her body and air magic couldn't hold a candle to Laxus.
The Lightning Dragon Slayer had left before she woke, leaving just a small scribble saying he'd see her later on a random envelope she'd had sitting on her table. Part of her brain said she probably should have been offended by the words 'Thanks for last night,' but she wasn't. Not even in the least. In all actuality, she was glad for the solitude. It gave her time for herself to do her usual morning routine, but it also allowed her time to mull over their new arrangement. She was still dealing with a little shock from it.
It was no secret that Laxus didn't do relationships, ever, and it was rumored he only ever did one night stands. He was breaking away from his usual modus operandi by not only seeking some semblance of a relationship but putting the rules he had in place on top of it. They were to be each other's only regulars and he wanted to discuss their sexual escapades afterward? It made absolutely no sense. Then, throw on his agreeing to allow her to choose who he slept with if they were together? That was absolutely mind boggling, it just wasn't his style. It was like the most fucked up version of a polyamorous relationship ever, bastardized to a point of bordering on just pure insanity.
The entire deal betrayed everything she'd learned about Dragon Slayers up to that point. If anything, it was him being a slayer that made all of his previous conquests make sense. There was no room for those possessive instincts to kick in if he wasn't sleeping with them more than once. So, why her? Why now? He clearly detested the idea of a relationship, one point she could absolutely agree on. Her mishap with Eve was a testament to the fact that she just was not in a place yet for something with commitment. There were no clear answers to be had and she wasn't one to look a gift horse in the mouth. He was offering her world shattering sex on a somewhat regular basis with their freedom still intact. Who was she to argue with that or turn it down? I'd be a fucking fool.
Stepping into the interior of the hall, Lucy glanced around until she spotted her two favorite boys sitting at their usual table. She casually made her way over, waving to a few of the other members who called out their usual good mornings. She spotted Levy at her usual table but she refrained from calling out to her due to the scowl on the Blunette's face as she spoke with her boyfriend and teammate. That was a situation she didn't quite get. They'd fought their attraction for each other for years and then finally wake up, only to do nothing but fight every day over the smallest of things. And that's one reason I don't need a relationship. Fix my shit first before dealing with someone else's.
She set her bag down on the table and frowned when neither Gray or Natsu looked up from their plates. They seemed to be studying the food that they were pushing around as if it would grow legs and take off for greener pastures. She cast a questioning look at Happy but the blue exceed only shrugged before he too returned to eating his fish. Quietly, she took a seat and stared at them in awkward silence. Maybe their mission went bad? She started to ask but quickly clamped her lips shut when Gray finally lifted his gaze to meet hers, the icy blue depths intently boring into her.
"So," he finally said. "Um. Laxus, huh?"
She blinked at him a couple of times, his words bringing her mind to a screeching halt. Her cheeks heated as a cold chill raced up her spine. "Oh god," she mumbled before slamming her head down onto her arms on the table. "He thought he smelled you two…"
"Yeah…"
"Oooh," Happy crooned. "Lucy and Laxus are in loooove!"
L… Lo… Luh… Fuck me. She couldn't even bring herself to think that word, much less say it. "Shut it cat!" She groaned. That was definitely the farthest thing from the truth, knowing she'd fall in love with a damn Vulcan before she'd fall for the Lightning Dragon Slayer. But if Natsu and Gray knew, who else? She quickly lifted her head and glared at the two men. "Please… Please tell me you did not tell Erza."
Natsu's face pinched as he gaped at her. "And have her beat the crap out of both of us? No thanks, Luce."
Lucy had never been so thankful for the Dragon Slayer's fear of the Requip mage. "Thank you," she sighed in relief. That really was the last person she needed knowing. Erza was hell bent on protecting her honor, living under the fucked up delusion that she was still a virgin. She didn't have the heart or the backbone to correct the woman. Not yet.
"So. You know I have to ask," Gray said as he pushed his plate away and leaned up onto the table. "Laxus? Pretty playboy Laxus?"
She sighed at the judging tone of his voice and cut her eyes to glare at the Ice Make mage.
"What?"
Gray's face fell as he stared at her. "Luce… He's bad news in the boyfriend department, I mean do you really expect him to be faithful?"
"Especially when you're a little heavy."
"Happy," Natsu growled. "This isn't a damn joke."
The blue Exceed gaped at the Dragon Slayer before letting out a huff and glancing her way. "Fine. Sorry, Lushi."
More than anything, she wanted to bat Happy across the hall at that moment. It wasn't about not loving the little guy, but all about her being fed the hell up with him and his fat jokes. It was getting old. He had no couth but it did surprise her when Natsu stopped it. That was definitely a first. Usually, he took part in it, adding on to the insults. It could only be surmised that Gray was having a positive effect on her dear idiot of a friend.
"I have to agree, Luigi. I'd hate to have to kick his ass for hurting you."
A laugh burst from her lips and she reached across the table to steal a piece of toast from Gray's plate. "Natsu, how many times have you tried to fight him?" She chuckled.
The Dragon Slayer wrinkled his nose and waved a hand as if to dismiss her. "I was feeling off that day."
"And the other days?"
Natsu let out a huff of air, puffing his chest like he had a pair. "I could take him, Luce. You know I could."
"Babe," Gray cut in and reached over to lay a hand on Natsu's leg. "We all know you could so drop it."
The Slayer opened his mouth as if he caught the slight condescension in the Ice Make mage's tone, but quickly turned his attention back to her. "How did it go with Eve? We sorta ran into him on his way out of town."
Lucy winced at the mention of the poor boy's name. She got pissed at Laxus for how he handled it every time it crossed her mind. But then he had been right to a point, there was no use beating around the bush. Unfortunately, he didn't rip it like a band-aid. It was more like he ripped hot wax straight off the Kid's nuts. "Yeah," she frowned. "It… It didn't exactly go as planned and he was seriously hurt when he left."
"No kidding," Gray lamented. "We could tell he'd been crying and he looked like hell."
She felt a twinge in her chest, knowing she'd been the cause of it. It had all been entirely her fault. The fact that Laxus delivered the finishing blow didn't matter because she should have never let it get that far. She'd only wanted to let him down easy, hopefully, save a friendship. But that was old hat now, he'd most likely run her over with a magic vehicle before looking her way again. "I seriously screwed that whole thing up," she frowned.
"Luce," Natsu sighed as he reached over to grab her hand. "You made a mistake, we all do. It's not your fault he liked you more than you liked him."
The story of my life, apparently. She let out a heavy sigh and shoved the last of the toast in her mouth to keep herself from blurting out the truth. They'd most likely find out eventually, the rumor mill between guilds was always working better than it should. But she just wasn't up for admitting the ugly truth to them in that moment.
"Just don't let you know who be another one," Gray said to cut into her thoughts. "Some mistakes you can't fix, Lucy. I know."
So they were back to that topic. Again. She knew they wouldn't just let it drop. "Guys," she mumbled around the bread. "It's just sex."
The Ice Make mage arched a brow. "Just sex?"
Lucy paused mid-chew and stared at the raven-haired man. "Yeah," she mumbled before quickly swallowing. "You know that thing where you put your penis in-"
"Ok! I know what sex is, thank you very fucking much." Gray interrupted quickly and quite uncomfortable it seemed. "But… You don't exactly seem like the friends with benefits type."
'What's a friend with benefits?"
Natsu sighed and glanced at the Exceed. "I'll explain later," he frowned before looking pointedly at Lucy. "You deserve someone who's gonna treat you right, not run around on you."
Her smile faltered and she averted her gaze. She knew these questions would come, expected this exact reaction. Despite the bump in their past, their unfortunate alcohol-spawned indiscretion, he… They were still there to protect and watch over her. "Guys. I love you," she started softly. "From the bottom of my heart and I really do appreciate you watching out for me. I do. But, I really don't want a serious relationship right now. I just can't."
"Yeah, but Laxus?"
That was the very same thing she'd asked herself in the bathroom while showering. And she came to the exactly same conclusion every time. "Yeah, he's good looking and well…" She gave a shrug of her shoulder, willing herself to not seek the Blond's presence out. "He pretty much rocked the hell out of my world. So…"
Natsu held up a hand and shook his head, vehemently. "I don't wanna know."
"Good," the Ice Make mage grimaced. "You don't need to."
The Fire Dragon Slayer grinned and gave her a wink before giving a nudge to the man beside him. "Jealous?"
"Hell yeah, I am," Gray grumbled without missing a beat.
A peal of laughter rang out in the hall as she watched the Dragon Slayer grab his boyfriend's face unexpected, planting what looked like the sloppiest, wettest kiss she'd ever seen. The look of shock that came over Gray's face was priceless, but it was the look of sheer adoration that the two held for each other. They really are meant to be together. "You two are so damn cute," she thought aloud.
"Ewwww, you guys did that all night!" Happy grimaced and covered his eyes.
Natsu turned his face down in an attempt to hide the sudden color in his cheeks. "I'm not cute," he grumbled before looking at Happy. "And you hush, go give Charle a fish or something."
"You are when you blush," Gray smiled.
"Shut the hell up, Ice Princess."
She gave a shake of her head when the two tried glaring at each other with all the venom in the world, but failed miserably given the little hearts that floated between them. "But seriously, you guys," she said to break the stare off and pushed up from the table. "It's all good. This is what I want right now and if I change my mind, I can always back out."
Gray looked up at her, studying her for a few long moments. His doubts were broadcasted in the dark blue depths of his eyes, but it was clear he'd support her. "Well… You know we're here."
"Yeah," Natsu cut in. "And if he hurts you, we will both fuck his world up."
Lucy knew they were just watching out for her. It's what they did and she wouldn't have it any other way. She grabbed her bag and slung it onto her shoulder as her stomach gave a rumble. "I know," she smiled. "And I love you both for that, but I need to go grab a smoothie. Talk to you guys later."
Laxus shoved a bite of pancakes into his mouth and audibly sighed in contentment as he chewed. He'd woken up pretty famished, only to realize neither he nor Lucy had bothered stopping for dinner. The feelings of hunger he'd had were quickly pushed aside when he came to the mind-bending realization that he hadn't bothered to make it home either. He, Laxus Dreyar, had not only broken his own rules by involving himself in… whatever this thing with her was, at his own suggestion no less. But he'd also broken a sacred rule by actually spending the entire night, in her bed. Not just sleeping together, but actually sleeping together. He could only chalk it up to wearing himself out to the point of delirious exhaustion which prompted an immediate comatose state. Surely that had to be it because he abhorred having to share a bed. With anyone.
He'd promptly, but very carefully, extracted himself from her slumbered embrace. Denying that he was ever wrapped around her. Even though the evil tricksey voice in his head kept reminding him that he'd had his arms wrapped around her tighter than spandex stretched around Master Bob's backside. Unfortunately, he knew exactly how tight that fit was. Given the overweight drag queen had shown up to the games one day in a deplorable pink lycra jumpsuit. There were rumors about counseling sessions being offered after that little fiasco. But, that wasn't really the point. The point was, he had not been wrapped around her like that. At all. Not even a little bit. That was what he was telling himself anyway. He was still trying to figure out why the hell he'd felt the nagging need to leave a note. He'd actually looked for a pad of paper, settling for a piece of junk mail she'd had in the kitchen and scribbled some words down. Then he literally threw the thing down on the pillow next to her like the anti-christ was trying to get out of it and ran for the door. He barely contained the scream that wanted to burst from his lips for fear of waking her up.
Now that he'd showered, had time to calm himself down and was filling his empty stomach, things were right in the world. Almost, anyways. He'd somehow managed to beat his entire team to the guild. Bickslow being late was old hat, the guy was going to be late to his own funeral via oversleeping. But Freed was always up at the crack of dawn and in here when the doors opened with Evergreen following behind. She'd finally arrived, he'd smelled her overpowering floral scent the moment she'd passed through the doors. But that hadn't been until Mira had brought him his usual morning fare. It had given him time to himself, which his brain and dick somehow translated into time to think. One wanted to think about just what the hell he'd done, mainly concerning Lucy. The other wanted to think about how quick he was going to return to the unbelievably tight confines of said blonde's body. That one had been easy enough to diffuse because he was already of the opinion that he was seeking pleasure elsewhere for the evening.
"So. It's started."
Laxus blinked at the sudden interruption to his thoughts. He was thankful for the reprieving given his inner musings had descended into reminiscing about the night before. But it was the angered tone of a voice he knew all too well that had him hesitantly looking up from his plate. Fire blazed in the brunette's dark brown eyes, her pink tinted lips pressed firmly into a thin line. He loved Evergreen, he did. She was the sister he never had but fuck him if he didn't hate her when she was pissed. "What's started?"
The Fairy mage gave a roll of her eyes in apparent disgust. "The damn rumor mill."
Seriously? This is what she's pissed about? "Please,' he replied in disinterest. "I told you not to get involved in that crap."
"Kind of hard when I go to get a drink and I overhear it."
He could tell by the increasing volume of her voice that whatever she had to say wasn't just going to die on the stupid vine from whence it came. He tossed his fork down and sat back in his chair. "And what the hell did you hear that you felt the need to spread it around this table?"
Evergreen blinked, her jaw dropping as if she were shocked. "Oh, you know exactly what it is."
"Uh. Not a fucking clue and don't really care."
"Laxus," she growled. "I told you not to go sullying that girl's reputation."
He clicked his tongue against the roof of his mouth and rolled his eyes. This crap, again. "You're fucking kidding, right? I haven't done a damn thing to her reputation."
"Other than running your damn trap to Bix's loud drunkard girlfriend," Evergreen spat back.
"She happened to fucking be there, Ever," Laxus groaned as he threw his hands up. "Not exactly my fault."
The Fairy mage glared at him incredulously, aggravation clearly written on her face when she took a seat across from him. "Uh, yeah. It is," she said in a hushed tone. "You could've told him to shut it and go on about your business."
Laxus blinked at the woman across from him. Shocked that she'd get on her high horse with him to begin with, surprised that she was so incredibly adamant about someone other than herself. Either way, it was pissing him the hell off. "Are you really sitting here telling me how to live my damn life?"
"Never," Evergreen stated rather plainly. "Your life is your own. But you're my friend and as your friend, it's my job to tell you when you're stepping in a steaming pile of crap."
"Evergreen…" He started but quickly stopped himself. He needed to remember this was one of his own team members and not just some idiot guild member that could easily be beat down. Taking a deep breath, he closed his eyes for a moment to get a hold of his anger. "Before I say a bunch of shit that will only hurt your feelings, I'm just going tell you I've got this."
Her brows shot to her hairline and she pointed back towards the bar. "Those women over there are plotting against you, Laxus. The minute they tell Erza, Team Natsu is going to be all over you like white on rice."
"And what fucking makes you think those idiots don't already know?"
She blinked at his words. "What?"
Finally, something to smack her back with. "Natsu and Gray came by her apartment," he smirked. "And I'm pretty fucking sure they got an ear full."
He watched her expression change from one of shock to confusion just to melt right back into shock. It still surprised him just how fucking easy it was to leave even his best friends speechless. They should be used to it by now, or he would have figured.
"Hold on," Evergreen finally said after finding her voice. "You… You were at Lucy's last night?"
Laxus gave a smug shrug of his shoulder. "Not that it's your damn business, but yeah."
"And you had sex?' She blinked. "As in, a repeat performance?"
"What's your point, Ever?"
"I… You…"
"Good morning, Laxus. Evergreen."
He had never been so glad to hear Freed's voice in his entire life. The conversation with the woman was becoming stale, boring him. He looked over and greeted the Rune mage with a nod and grunt as the man unburdened his usual load of books before taking a seat.
"Freed," Evergreen said as she waved a hand in the Slayer's direction. "Laxus…
Freed stared at the woman, waiting for her to finish whatever she had to say. But when it didn't come, he looked over at Laxus for direction. "What is wrong with her?"
"I don't fucking know," the Slayer said with a roll of his eyes. "Maybe she's on her monthly and has lost her damn mind."
Evergreen cut her eyes at him and snapped her fan open. "My menstrual cycle is not up for discussion," she hissed before turning a pointed glare at the green-haired man. "Him and Lucy. Again. Last night."
"Pardon?" Freed blinked.
Laxus watched as the two exchanged looks and sighed when all the Fairy mage would do was gesture his way with her eyes. This wasn't fucking charades or morse code. "I think she's trying to tell you that Blondie and I fucked last night."
"Again," Evergreen quickly added. "As in, twice now."
Freed stared blankly at the brunette for the longest time before recognition finally seemed to dawn on him. "So that is where you disappeared to," he lamented in a rather bored tone. "I tried calling you."
"Yeah," Laxus grunted. "I was... Busy."
The Rune mage nodded as though he perfectly understood. "Well that is good news," he smiled politely. "I take it that you are giving the dating life a try?"
"Laxus? Date?" Evergreen interjected. "Freed, are you listening to what the hell you're saying? He's never been monogamous a day in his life and you're ok with that?"
Laxus held up a hand to the Rune mage to interrupt him before he even spoke. "You do realize I'm sitting right here?"
"Ever," Freed postulated. "Laxus is perfectly capable of having a normal relationship."
Normal? I wouldn't exactly put it that way, but… "Well-"
Evergreen let out a sarcastic laugh to cut him off, her head falling back with a dramatic flourish. "Yeah, ok. You keep telling yourself that."
"Hey!" Laxus bellowed.
Freed reached over and politely patted his hand as if to signify that he had this. "The fact that he left here after our conversation proves it," he maintained. "He sees what a treasure Lucy is."
"No," she quickly shot back. "He sees a piece of ass, end of story."
Laxus reached up and rubbed his now throbbing temples. He loved his friends, he did. They were great when it really counted. But when it didn't, they could be worse than children. Listening to the two of them bicker over his love life was definitely not one of those counted moments. It was like listening to two magpies squawking at each other. It was his life, and while he generally kept his private life just that, private. This time, he'd make an exception given it would be on the Five O'Clock news at this rate. "Would you two shut the hell up?" He growled. "Fuck! I can't get a word in edgewise."
"I… I apologize," Freed blinked before looking away reticently.
He waved the man off with a wave. "Yeah, Blondie and I are…" he paused, trying to think of the best way to put it without causing an uproar. "We're sorta seeing each other."
Evergreen tsked and shook her head. "Sort of? So, she's your new booty call."
"Evergreen, he would ne-"
Laxus held up a hand to stop Freed mid-sentence. "We both agreed to an open relationship."
"Oh," Freed finished with a deflated sigh.
"Exactly, a damn booty call."
"Whatever," he growled. "We're both adults and it's what we want."
Freed studied him for a moment before thankfully conceding with nothing more than a nod before he went about burying himself in a book. He knew he would not get off so easy with the Brunette. She was like him in the fact that she preferred having the last word. And she didn't disappoint.
"I still don't like it, agreed or not. That girl is gonna get hurt and you know it."
Laxus shook his head and leaned back in his chair. He wasn't going to argue on this anymore. He felt good about the deal with Lucy. Just the mention of her name and he couldn't help but glance around until he spotted her walking across the guild hall. Her eyes met his and he gave a small smirk. She was wearing jeans that hugged those dangerous curves of hers and he knew why her top covered a little more flesh than normal. He remembered every single mark he'd left on her creamy flesh and even now it hardened his cock. She knew where he stood and she'd readily agreed. They were both going into this with eyes wide opened. Can't be hurt if you know what you're doing. "Ever," he said flatly. "Do me a favor and go paint your nails or something. This shit is over with."
Lucy was glad to get away from her teammates, needing the reprieve from questions and harping. Neither of them would really understand. They both knew what they wanted, had it in the palm of their hands. They didn't have to question themselves or each other. The only thing she could say for certain about herself was that she needed to change. She needed to be able to depend on herself, find what made her happy, be better, stop planning and just go for it. Easier said than done given her first Go for it moment had led to the destruction of a friendship. Guilt rose up and she mentally chastised herself. It was one thing she needed to change. She needed to stop feeling so damn responsible for everyone else's happiness.
It's what got you into this mess in the first place.
She glanced around as she made her way across the guild hall. One thing she had on her bucket list was to start taking missions with other teams. It wasn't a matter of not wanting to be with Team Natsu. It all boiled down to being able to depend on herself. Every mission with them left her with barely enough to cover the cost of living. Ok, her insane shoe and clothing addiction didn't help. But as long as she'd been with the guild now, she should, at least, have some kind of savings. That was a pipe dream when every job cost more than it made thanks to Natsu, Erza and Gray's destructive habits.
No, going out from time to time with other people would be a good thing. For her and her team. She'd learn to work on her own a bit, making her more of an asset. It would give her a chance to get to know and work with her other family members. Less destruction would mean more money that she could set aside so that she could just enjoy her time with her teammates. They would also feel less stress because they wouldn't have to take impromptu missions to help her cover rent and utilities. Hell, if she used the wealth of knowledge her father had passed down to her about bookkeeping and money, she'd be able to help them financially when they needed it.
As she scanned the faces, she made a mental checklist. She'd never been out with the Strauss Siblings. They were known to be pretty responsible, so it would work. Macao and Wakaba… A chuckle slipped from her lips as she gave a shake of her head. A single girl out with two old perverts probably would not be a smart move. Team Shadowgear was always an option, but the constant bickering happening between Levy and Jet stayed her decision for the time being. Nab was standing at the board as always and she pursed her lips. She didn't know much about him, other than he never took a job. She could be the push he really needed to seriously get out there. There was Max, although his odd attachment to his broom seemed a little weird. Vijeeter could be a good choice, he could teach her interpretive dancing. She and Cana worked really well together, so that was on the list as well.
Her eyes drifted and caught on an intense electric blue pair that made her breath hitch and her feet falter in their step. Getting the opportunity to work with the Raijinshou would be amazing. Getting to learn more about runes from Freed, having a normal girl to talk strategy with in Evergreen, seeing Bickslow's magic work without being on the receiving end. They were all individually powerhouse mages and together, they were just as their name was. The thunder god legion. It was the God part that made her nervous. Looking at the large blond, even from across the room, she could already feel her panties dampening and her knees trembling. He had a little too much affect on her for any work to actually get done. She'd spend all of her time trying to keep her mind off of his naked form instead of learning. The corners of his wide mouth ticked upwards in his smirk as though he knew just how much her body was responding and the decision was made. Going on a mission with him was out of the question until she learned to control her own attraction.
She granted him a half smile before she ripped her gaze away from his. It's just sex but holy hell is it good. The thought put a smile back on her face and she stepped up next to Cana at the bar feeling better than she had when she left her team's table. Today was officially the start of her becoming someone else. New and improved.
"Lucy, you look like you're in a good mood today."
Mira's whimsical, cheery voice only brightened her outlook even more. "I am," she smiled as she set her bag down on the bar top. "Slept like a baby last night."
Cana let out a laugh and nudged her side playfully. "I bet you did."
Lucy hesitantly glanced over at the Brunette and the all too knowing grin that was plastered on the woman's face made her smile falter. She knew Cana well enough to know the girl officially knew something. And that scared her because she sucked ass at keeping anything on the down low. "And what do you mean by that?"
"Ohhhh maybe just that a little birdie told me about you and a certain Dragon Slayer knocking boots."
I knew it. I just fucking knew it, goddamn rumor mill.
"Then she told me and now I want details," Mira added excitedly. "When's the wedding? How soon will you two start making babies?"
Her hands shot up as she started choking on her own spit. Babies? What the fuck? "Hold your horses, She-Demon" Lucy wheezed. "No wedding, no babies. God, definitely not any babies. Ever."
Cana laughed and lifted a hand to rub her back. "Yeah, he's not exactly the marrying type."
"Sure he is," the Matchmaking Demon practically cooed. The wedding bells and baby showers were already dancing in her azure eyes. "He just hasn't found the one."
Those last two words echoed in Lucy's head and she felt her stomach roll. He wasn't her one and she sure as hell wasn't his. Not in my damn lifetime. Giving a shake of her head, she rolled her eyes and climbed onto a barstool. "Whatever, can I get a strawberry smoothie please?"
"Sure thing," Mira smiled. "But then you have to tell us all about it."
No, no I don't.
Lucy forced herself to smile and gave a nod just to get rid of the creepy demon stare. When it came to the topic of couples and relationships, Mira disappeared only to be replaced by a demon. It wasn't a full body take over, but there wasn't a doubt in her mind that it was one of the psychos living inside the Takeover mage that came out to play. She watched the woman saunter off and practically slumped against the bar. She just wanted to have a good day, live life without questions. Was that too much to ask?
"Ok, so seriously. Laxus?"
The disapproval she heard in Cana's voice made her groan. Apparently it is. Lifting her head up, she glanced over at the Brunette and grimaced. "Not you too."
"What?" The Card mage blinked.
The pounding in her head started and she reached up to pinch the bridge of her nose. "I already know where you're going. I just had the same talk with Natsu and Gray."
The Brunette sighed as she glanced across the hall before looking back. "I like the guy, he's a great friend but LuLu…" Her words trailed off for a moment, concern dancing in her amethyst eyes. "You sure that's the one you should be messing with?"
She blinked once. Twice. A solid three times in disbelief. Why was it so hard for others to grasp? It wasn't like she was planning on having a serious future with the guy. And of all people she figured would understand the reasoning there, she thought for sure Cana would be in her corner on this one. She opened her mouth to speak but was quickly cut off with the arrival of a new voice.
"Wait. Who is messing with who?"
Go fuck yourself, Karma. Seriously? Of all the people, you throw Erza at me? Who the fuck pissed in your Wheaties today?
"Lucy," the Requip mage said gravely as she laid a hand on her arm. "Has Eve done something to dishonor you?"
There was never a moment that she prayed harder and wished more for the ability to turn into a rock. Hell, she'd take transforming into a steaming pile of shit if it meant not having to face Erza. No matter what she said or did at that point would spare her the wrath that she was sure to follow. Defeat… "Gods… No," she whined as she dropped her face into her hands. "Eve didn't… Um. Yeah, no."
"Speaking of the kid," Cana prodded. "Did you talk to him yet? Thought I saw him in town yesterday."
Go play in traffic, Cana. Please? She was pretty sure the Brunette was now just throwing fuel on the fire, hoping for fireworks. She'd made the mistake of confirming sleeping with the kid when she'd talked to the Card mage a few days ago. It was always hard for her to lie, the truth always broadcasted on her face. Ok, and she'd really needed some friendly female advice on how best to deal with Eve's confessed feelings and her complete lack thereof.
"About what?"
Lucy's head shot up at Erza's question and she cut her eyes to Cana in warning, needing her to keep her mouth shut. "Nothing," she quickly interjected. "Just… Just had to tell him that I wasn't interested in a relationship right now."
The Requip mage frowned and studied her for a moment before relenting with a sigh. "Shame, he was a very nice kid. All those flowers and the candy."
"Don't forget the cards," Mira added as she walked back up and set a glass full of strawberry smoothie down on the bar. "That poor boy really likes you."
"He did," Lucy mumbled.
Cana reached over to stick her finger into the smooth and laughed when it got slapped. "And to think she sold it for Playboy of the year."
"What?" Erza choked as her fingers tightened on Lucy's arm.
Fuck me. Just… Right in the damn ass. "Um," Lucy winced. "About that…"
The Requip mage stared wide-eyed at her, the woman's lips moving without a sound in shock before she could muster control of herself. Pulling away, she turned to look over in the direction of the Raijinshuu's table before turning back with a shake of her head. "No. Definitely not," she said gravely. "Lucy, I like him well enough but he's not a good match for you."
"That's what I'm saying," Cana sighed.
"You guys," Mira cut in. "That's not fair."
Cana gasped and turned a sour look on the white-haired Mage. "Why? You know his reputation as well as I do."
"Yes, but-"
"Could we not discuss my sex life, please?" Lucy finally growled, cutting Mira off. She glanced around at the three in exasperation. Not only was this not up for debate in her eyes, but it sure as hell wasn't something they should be discussing in the guild hall. Too many ears when she preferred her private life stay just that. Private.
Erza glared at her for a moment before her hand moved to the hilt of her sword. "Oh, we're discussing it. I will not allow him to soil your maidenhood.'
Cana tried to cover her snicker with clearing her voice. "Uh…"
Lucy glared at the Brunette to keep her from elaborating as she barely maintained control over the raging psychopath inside of her that oh so desperately wanted to rip all of their heads off. These were the same women who had all consoled her at the Honeybone after the Eclipse Gate incident. They'd all told her she needed to let things go and find what made her happy. They'd all told her to find someone new and forget about her heartbreak with Natsu. Yet, here they all were, damning her for doing just that. "Erza," she said tightly. "While a gallant gesture, I lost my V card a long time ago so let go of the oversized knife on your side."
"What?" The Requip mage blinked. "Tell me who so I can go remove his head."
"That's not ne-"
"Natsu," Cana added all too quickly to cut her off which got her the glare of death.
Mira's eyes widened and immediately darted across the hall to land on the Dragon Slayer in question before she looked back in confusion. "But, he's gay."
Exactly why I didn't want everyone knowing, Nosey Fucks. Note to self, poison Cana's next barrel with imodium. "Yeah, but…" Lucy started only to pause. How the hell did she explain that it was before he came out without it sounding like she was the one who made him that way? "Yeah."
"N-Natsu?" Erza stuttered.
Lucy sighed as she watched her teammate desperately trying to wrap her mind around the idea. "Don't ask," she said as she lifted a hand. "Just… can we drop this please?"
When silence fell on the small group, she let go of the breath she'd been holding only to be sucker punched when Erza spoke up again.
"I can forgive Natsu, but I'm opposed to a relationship with Laxus."
You'd be opposed to God himself! She loved her friends, she did and could somewhat understand their opposition. They were just trying to look out for her, but she didn't really need it. She didn't want their nay-saying. "Guys-"
"LuLu," Cana cut her off. "He's a nice enough guy in the guild\, but he's… Well, a man-whore."
"Cana, I-" Mira started but quickly stopped and a look of hesitation came over her face. "I-I would have to agree."
Lucy glanced between Erza and the Takeover mage, her brows furrowing as the two exchanged a series of odd looks between them. It struck her as weird, but she pushed it away. There was no telling what it was and she had more important things to deal with. Their nosey insistence being top of the list. "Well, it's not really your choice," she said matter-of-factly. "It's mine."
The Requip mage's face softened a little with a sigh. "He is only going to hurt you, Lucy."
She gave an uncaring shrug of her shoulder. She'd have to be invested to be hurt, but she wasn't. She knew better than to trust Laxus with something like her heart. Even if she was in a place to give it, which she wasn't, she knew better. "Like I told Gray and Natsu, it's just sex. It's not like a serious relationship, it's open."
"Lucy!" Mira gasped.
The Requip mage's eyes bulged as she gaped at Lucy. "Ju-just se-" she stammered in her struggle with saying the words. "N-no, that is not you. I will go cut off his head for even suggesting a thing li-"
Lucy groaned when the redhead reached for her sword once more and turned to leave. She quickly reached out to grab her arm, stopping her short. "You will do no such thing," she growled. "Erza, him and I both discussed it and we both want that."
"But-"
"I'm just not ready," she said to cut the woman off again. "I don't want anything serious right now."
Cana stared at her for a few moments before turning back to her stein of beer. "Lulu, I love you. You know that," she grimaced. "But, I don't see you just doing casual sex."
"Why?" Lucy snapped back, tired of everyone's apparent lack of faith in her ability to do anything other than breath. All they saw was a sweet, innocent little girl who needed to be protected. "I've done it before. You guys act like I'm some green virgin."
Erza blinked and waved a hand dismissively, proving her point. "Well, you've only ever been with Natsu."
"And Jason and Eve and that one guy," Cana added. "What was his name? Oh! And Mys-"
Lucy couldn't move fast enough as she quickly slapped a hand over the Card mage's mouth. Enough of her secrets had been divulged and the last thing she needed was Erza flipping a lid over her tryst with Mystogan. He admittedly looked too much like the Requip mage's unrequited love and she clearly remembered the hurt the woman had suffered when she found out. "It doesn't really matter who I've been with," she quipped with a pointed look at the Brunette.
"I knew you went on a date with Jason," Mira pondered. "And of course, I saw you at the ball with Eve. But Mys? Who was that?"
She forced a smile, willing her voice to remain impassive as she replied. "It's no one important."
Erza's eyes narrowed a fraction. "Ok, but again, you were dating those men."
"Not all of them."
Cana slapped her hand away with a scowl. "Name one that you were with and was seeing other people at the same time."
She blinked at the challenger, her head instantly falling empty as she tried to come up with an answer. "Well. Um…"
"Exactly," the Brunette replied with a roll of her eyes. "Being a fuck buddy is a hell of a lot different."
Does it really fucking matter if it's what I want? "Cana-"
"Not to mention it's degrading to you," Erza reprimanded. "You deserve a lot better.
No, I deserve to be able to live my life as I damn well choose. "That-"
"Exactly," Mira smiled. "One who'll give you plenty of babies."
What the fuck is wrong with you people? "I don't-"
Cana let out a shrill laugh to cut her off. "I don't think Lucy really wants babies."
Finally, someone fucking gets that shit. "Exactly, I-"
"No," Erza said as though she hadn't been talking. "But she deserves a guy who will treat her like the beautiful woman she is."
Laxus did that. I felt like a million fucking Jewels before you bitches started breaking me down! She held up a hand to cut back in, wanting and needing to defend herself. But it was completely useless as the hens kept clucking to the point of her just wanting to slam her head into a brick wall.
"So you've noticed?" Mira questioned as she turned a seemingly suspicious eye on the Requip mage.
"W-well who hasn't?" Erza stammered.
Cana gave a laugh and reached around to grab a handful of Lucy's boob. "Oh, I've definitely noticed as has most of the men and women in this damn building."
"SHUT UP ALREADY AND STOP FUCKING TOUCHING ME!"
Unable to contain the mounting rage inside of her any longer, Lucy let go with a scream that could have easily shattered glass. She was done, finished, ready to punch all three of them in the throat hard enough that her fist exited their damn vaginas.
"GOD! Can I just get a word in here for my damn self?"
The women in front of her went wide eyed in shock, unable to blink and she couldn't give a single fuck. Not even a nano portion of one. The sudden sound of crickets and silence failed to reach her ears for the raging sounds of her blood boiling.
"Lucy-"
She cut her eyes at the Redhead and could practically feel the fire oozing from between her lips when she spoke to cut her off. "No! I'm not a child, goddamn it. I'm a grown ass woman who can handle my own shit. Yet all three of you," she seethed. "All fucking three of you who are supposed to be my friends, great fucking support there by the way. You're standing there discussing my fucking life and my decisions as though I was a five-year-old. My own damn mother, god rest her soul, treated me with more respect and she kicked the bucket when I was only ten!"
Mira reached over to gently lay a hand on her arm. "Lucy, Honey. We really-"
"Really didn't mean it?" Lucy screamed as she turned her angry gaze on the Takeover mage. "Mira. Sorry, but a big damn newsflash. There won't be any spawns of Satan coming out of my vajajay anytime soon, so hang that shit up. I get the shot, I'm anal about it and I'd throw myself off the damn bell tower if it stopped working."
Turning her gaze next to the Requip mage, she forced herself to ignore the way the woman flinched. "Erza, I lost my damn virgin card a long time ago and guess what? It was quite willingly. Sure, alcohol was pretty much involved but then isn't that the story for so damn many of us here? I happen to like sex. A lot. Stop threatening to cut off the damn head of every man who looks my way and get over it."
She saw the woman fish-lip in her attempt at a rebuttal, but she was on a roll. She turned her gaze finally to the last of them and was unable to keep her disappointment at bay when she spoke. "And you, Cana. Seriously? You know me, as well… Hell, probably better than they do. We've talked and I mean really talked, so you should know better. I'm not the goody two shoes you seem to think I am."
The Brunette smirked and gave a quick wink. "If you say so, LuLu."
"I do," Lucy quickly shot back before taking a deep breath in some sort of attempt to get her vexation back under control. She could practically feel her heart pounding in her head. "This is my life, Ladies. That means it's my choice what I do or don't' do. If I wanted to create my own damn harem, I would because it would be my choice. I don't want a serious relationship, in the least. What Laxus and I have agreed to, not that it's any of your business, it works for both of us. This is my decision, so deal with it. I get that you're all concerned, but trust me. I've got this."
Erza blinked a couple of times and swallowed hard before she dared to speak. "I… I apologize, Lucy. I-I didn't realize," she practically whispered. "You are right, it is your life and I should be more… conscientious of that. Please punch me in the face."
"Me too, Lucy," Mira added. "Just… know that we're here though if you need us. We're Nakama, we love you and only want what's best."
Cana held up a stein of beer. "What they said, want a beer now?"
"No, no beer thanks." Lucy chuckled before turning a quick, reproachful smile on the other two. "I didn't mean to yell, but… Yeah."
Without wanting to wait for another word, or Erza to get her balls back and pound her ass into the ground for going off, she turned to leave only to come to a screeching halt. The fact that every single eye in the guild was staring at her, jaws on the floor, explained the creepy silence that was finally registering. Way to go, Lucy. Air all your dirty laundry in front of the entire guild. She gave an uneasy smile before her eyes darted towards the Raijinshuu table and a shiver ran down the length of her spine when they met the amused, but heated gaze of her impromptu lover in question. If she didn't know any better, she'd say he looked impressed by her little display. But what was there to be impressed over? She'd just outed their relationship to the world (because the rumor mill would have this worldwide in about five point five seconds).
Swallowing hard, she tore her gaze away and made a quick grab for her bag before high-tailing it towards the door. Now was the time for her to go home and play masochist by beating herself senseless for losing control the way she'd done. Not only had she stood up to the Demon and Juggernaut, but she'd kind of told them all to go to hell in a way. Well. You wanted change… She reached the doors in time for it to swing open on her and she practically groaned when she found not only a surprised Gajeel standing there. But at his side was the thought hearing, snake-loving Dragon Slayer of doom.
Cobra smirked and leaned over to whisper to the Iron Dragon Slayer loud enough for her to hear. "And this is why I'm fucking gay."
Lucy gave a roll of her eyes and moved to brush past them. I really don't need any misogynistic 'women are nothing but drama' bullshit or Gajy jumping my ass. "Fuck off, Cobra."
He laid a hand on her arm for just a moment and narrowed his eyes. "It's not really the theatrics," he smirked. "It's the smell of an excited pussy in the morning, huge turnoff. But don't fucking lump us in with the drama whores in this building. You fuck who you want, Titselina."
"Erik," Gajeel growled.
Her jaw dropped and she blinked at the maroon-haired man. While his words were crude, probably meant to insult, she understood the underlying meaning. She gave a nod of her head and pulled away to lean up and brush her lips against Gajeel's cheek. "Keep this one," she whispered before continuing on her way.
So… yeah. Apparently everyone seems to be against our two anti-love birds being together lol. But, Lucy did stand up for herself. Finally. She's changing and that's pretty important to her. I just don't think she meant for the whole guild to hear LOL. And friggin Cobra. I swear! I did NOT mean for him to be in there but he just snuck in. He's a Lucy supporter in his own way haha.
A little side note, the name and idea from this chapter came from an Incubus song playing when I was plotting out chapters and thought I'd share with you guys.
watch?v=KoPlkmYaEQs
The next update should be for Soulful Fugue but I have to admit, Sound Pod is really calling me so... we shall see!
Also! A huge note. Dragon'shost is hosting this year's CoLu week again. I am going to try and participate, but we shall see how it works out.
It will take place on June 19th - June 25th, with June 26th being a bonus day.
The prompts for each day are as follows:
Day 1 - Eternity
Day 2 - Excuses
Day 3 - Online
Day 4 - Colour
Day 5 - Answers
Day 6 - Raspberry
Day 7 - Energy
Bonus - Aurora
As always, please remember to follow, fav and review!
Big hugs,
Princess Nana