A/N: I'm sorry that the chapter is a bit late. So to recap in the last chapter: the gang are at Erza's beach house for a study vacation, Natsu and Lucy had sorted out their little problem and went on a date for the first time. They get chased by a cop, jumped off a cliff and made out in the ocean; forgetting Erza's shopping at the cafe.

I don't own fairy tail, credits go to Hiro Mashima.


Lucy Heartfilia heaved a long tired sigh, her exhausted brown eyes stared out at the dark ocean view. It was another sleepless night amongst the house that slept like the dead, she was left in silence feeling physically and mentally drained. All she would do was stay awake to the early of the morning. She didn't dare to close her eyes or relax into slumber as grotesque images haunted her dreams leaving her to face insomnia.

The cold summer wind tickled her bare legs, goose bumps shivered across her skin, her sleeping shorts didn't have much protection to guard off the breeze. Lucy sat outside on the deck with the clear view of the beach, it looked vacant the perfect setting of a ghost story her head shifted slightly side to side, swaying to the sounds of waves crashing against the sand trickling to shore.

The sea reminded her of what Natsu and herself had gotten up to the day before, her body felt stiff as an aftermath of falling off a cliff. Her cheeks heated up, the pinkette's imaginary touch tickled her skin, her imagination only encouraged her humiliation, making her stomach churn.

"Well done Lucy." She murmured to herself, leaving her beach chair, "That's another thing to keep you up at night."

She heaved another sigh opening the glass door and sliding it closed behind her. The quiet room created an eerie atmosphere toward her, the tiles beneath her feet felt cold. Her eyes scanned every dark corner as she stalked her way to the kitchen for a midnight snack.

Lucy peered around the corner and as quiet as a church mouse, she entered the kitchen on the tips of her toes. She refilled the jug of water to top up the amount in the kettle, she dreaded the sound of the boiling water as it bounced off the walls of the empty rooms. Her body tensed up with loud clink of her coffee mug on the counter, she cringed placing the relevant amount of sugar and coffee in her cup... Every light tap, bang or thud sounded like there was a world war in her backyard.

She paused her activity, hearing a disturbance near the front door. Her first instinct was to stay still (if she didn't make a sound she wouldn't be spotted by the burglar) but her second was run and hide until the coast was clear. The blonde sucked in a breath and went with her second option, her body twisted quickly to a running position, knocking her knee in the process slamming the cupboard near her lower body shut.

"Ah, erm-"

She bit her lip and flapped her arms around wildly, she hopped on one leg, humming softly as the pain spread throughout her body. She squeaked, stubbing her toe on the corner of the kitchen island, her jaw drop releasing soundless screams as she shuffled around in pain. Her hands cautiously removed a frying pan off the shelf it was hanging from, her knuckles turned white around the grip of the handle. Her eye glanced at the kitchen entrance as she hobbled to it, her ears twitched to the sound of footsteps. She raised the pan above her head as the steps sounded closer to her.

Lucy squeezed her eyes shut, swinging absent-mindedly at the open space. They shot open after a loud clank echoed in her ears, the sudden vibration caused her to drop the cooking tool. Did I swing too early? She question herself and stared at the pitch black room in front of her, or maybe I was being stupid and it was fragment of my imagination.

She felt a soft breeze of breath tickle the back of her neck, her heart stopped and her jaw hung open in fright. That was it! She was going to die in the dead of the night without her comatose friends help... In turned around in an agonizing pace also mentally preparing herself for what was to happen next.

A flash of pink; or salmon as it was preferred, across her vision. A warm hand covered her mouth before she could scream in outrage, onyx eyes pleaded to her for silence as a fingers pressed against his lips. Lucy glared dagger at her culprit, pushing him arm's length away from her.

"Natsu, why the hell are you scaring people in the middle of the night!" She demanded in a whispered, shoving her hands on her hips.

The pinkette crossed his arms, "Why the hell are you trying to hit innocent people with frying pans!"

She shook her head, "Why are you awake?"

"I could asked you the same question."

She rolled her eyes, "I couldn't sleep."

Natsu stared at her concern, studying how dark the bags were under her eyes were, not to mention recalling when she told him that she had trouble sleeping when she was away with her father but that was due to stress. Why was she struggling to relaxed in this warm environment?

"Why?" He whispered back.

Lucy gave him another tired smile and sighed, "You know the usual." Her smile faltered, "Nightmares."

She sucked in a sharp breath, surprised that she even told someone other that her mother about her little problem. When that horrid word left her tongue it left shivers of fears and uneasiness on her skin, she felt her eyes water as watery giggle escaped her lips in disbelief, the nightmarish feeling churned around her body, this ugly emotion scattered memories of those dreams across her mind, those dreams that kept her up at night.

"I'm just tired." Her voice cracked in exhaustion, "I'm tired of crying myself awake every day." She gave him a shaky smile, "I haven't had a good night's sleep in a month."

Natsu reached for her hand, "I'm here, I am not going anywhere anytime soon." He assured her, "Now, will you relax and go to sleep. You look like a wreck."

She laughed weakly, "Thanks for the vote of confidence, Natsu."

With a curt nod and without another word, the teenaged boy lead his girlfriend to her bedroom, hoping she would finally get some deserved sleep. Somehow Lucy couldn't shake off the ridiculous feeling of being watch since her suspicion of a burglar earlier and gripped onto Natsu's hand tighter as if she was afraid of the dark.

Her nerves started to settle, when the Dragneel lead her into her room, he cautiously laid her onto her bed and slowly tucked her in like she was a child. He sighed softly, brushing her fringe off her cold forehead and watched her open and close her eyes, debating whether or not to let slumber take over her.

"Rest Lucy." He murmured, his fingers grazing her cheek.

Natsu eyed her as he walked towards the door and running a hand through his hair. He leaned against the doorframe for a final glimpse of the blonde, just to check she was okay, that she wasn't restless.

"Natsu..."

Lucy whimpered, her face twisted in distress as her eyes darted frantically beneath her eyelids. Her shaking hand fisted into her duvet and her head rocked side to side in panic. Every step Natsu took toward her felt long to him, her whimpering left a distasteful feeling his stomach. He slowly sat on the mattress, wincing at the soft creaks of the springs beneath and reached for her shoulder to shake her awake.

"Lucy, hey wake up." He whispered, stroking her cheek, "You're having a nightmare."

The blonde's eyes slowly opened, tears down her face soaking into the cotton sheets. Her tired orbs stared up at him, she gave him a sleepy smile as her cold hand touched his warm cheek as if to cheek if he was a dream. Her breathing steady, the thin coat of sweat glistened against the moon rays.

"You're here." Lucy said weakly, as if she was still trapped in her dream, "I thought you weren't coming back?"

Natsu placed a hand on hers that held his cheek and gazed down at her with warm eyes, "That's right, I'm here." He sighed, "I won't leave you." He watched her eyes water as if she didn't believe him, "Lucy, what happened?"

The blonde released a shaky breath, blinking away another tear, "It doesn't matter, just stay with me."

"Alright." He nodded, lifting up the blanket and shuffled himself in the warm bed.

Automatically Lucy moved towards him, his comforting scent rolled off him in waves calming her racing heartbeat. She cuddled up to the new found heat, nestling her head against his bare chest, seeking safety in skin-contact. Natsu adjusted himself and wrapped his arms around her as he scent taunted his senses. He started to hum a soft lullaby-like tune, the noise tickled the blonde's head, a relaxed smile spread across her lips as her eyes drifted close, giving in to the teasing slumber.

The Dragneel ceased to hum, noticing the blond had fallen asleep. He sighed with content, closing his eyes as well, "Good night, Lucy."


The sound of the waves crashing onto the shore and the seagulls squawks bounced off the walls of the bedroom. Daylight streamed through the large window, disturbing Lucy from a dead sleep. Her face scrunched up in irritation and in frustration she dug her head deeper into her pillow. She furrowed her eyebrows as something rather heavy tightened around her waist, she struggled to move, her legs were tangled with someone else's.

Lucy managed to twist her body to face the owner of the legs and arms, she felt a light breath tickle her cheek. Her brown orbs stared closely at the familiar salmon-hair that belonged to a certain boy that haunted her dreams. She giggled at the way his mouth was parted slightly releasing soft little snores. His facial expression was serene like he lived in a carefree world, his fringe was flat against his forehead making him look a bit older to her.

A small smile played on her lips as she lightly traced his facial features with her index finger. Natsu crinkled up his nose like a kitten by her feather-like touch. She gingerly brushed his bangs off his forehead, watching his eyebrows rise at the sudden touch. Lucy leaned closer to him, her lips grazed his forehead with warm affection and pulled back after hearing him hum.

"Good morning." She whispered nuzzling his nose with hers, exhaustion non-existent in her body.

Natsu smiled at her, "Good morning to you too." His voice still groggy from sleep, "You seem happy this morning."

Lucy sat up' resting her hand on his chest and beamed with gratitude. All the energy she's lost in the past month due to lack of sleep somehow renewed itself and she finally felt normal again. She no longer had a tight chest with the terrible feeling of being watched for her actions, it was like she was freed from her nightmares. It was the first time she had a restful sleep in ages.

"Lucy?"

"Huh? Oh it is nothing." She pressed her lips together, "Just..." She trailed off.

Natsu cocked an eyebrow, a smirk replacing his smile, "Just." he persisted.

"It is just that I don't know how to thank-you." Her cheeks tinted a light pink.

The Dragneel widened his smirk up at her and tucked a loose strand behind her ear, wiggling his eyebrows suggestively, "Well..."

Lucy smacked his chest lightly, "You're such dork." And let him pull her head down, pressing her lips against his.

She smiled into the kiss, the familiar electricity shocked every end of her nerves. It was a small, sweet peck but it had the same result as the ones on a larger scale. This warmth feeling tickled her insides causing her to giggle once Natsu nudged her cheek with his nose - completely smitten. She kissed his cheek before falling back onto her side of the bed. It was Natsu's turn to sit up, the duvet pooled at his waist leaving his rather fit torso exposed to the blonde that blushed at the glorious sight.

His hand found hers, their fingers automatically entwined, her body felt numb with glee as the pinkette brought her hand to his face and his lips lightly brushed her knuckled.

"What do you want to do today?"

Lucy pursed her lips together and looked up at him. Truth be told she wanted a lazy day, staying in bed till noon or watch movies and cuddle on the sofa but she doubted Natsu could sit still for a long period of time.

"Maybe we could have a little beach date or picnic in the backyard." She suggested, knitting her eyebrows together pensively, "Or maybe we could have a movie day?"

Before Natsu could respond, Erza Scarlet bursted into the room with her usual hard expression. She stopped at the foot of the bed with Levy close behind her, glaring dagger at the teenaged couple. The Dragneel gulped at her cold exterior and Lucy sat up straight to meet the Scarlets furious eyes contact.

"Natsu!" The boy flinched at her tone, "What are you in a girl's room when you know it is prohibited!"

"Eh..." He struggled to find his word, "I... Eh..."

"I asked him to stay." Lucy blurted out, all eyes fell on her now, "I couldn't sleep and got scared so I asked Natsu to stay with it was my fault."

Erza raised an eyebrow at her statement, not entirely believing her, "I see." She cleared her throat, "I've decided on your punishment for yesterday's shanigans."

Natsu pouted, "How is it my fault that we got chased by a federal officer?"

Erza pinched the bridge of her nose, "It's your fault that you got pulled over, back-chatting an officer and not mention giving him the wrong items."

"I see your point."

"What's the verdict?" Lucy asked, squeezing his hand.

"Since you have six counts against you have to d-"

"I call bullshit! What six counts?" He demanded, cutting her off.

"Let see." She lifted up her hands, "You got pulled over. You back-chatted a police officer. You gave him the wrong items." She held up three fingers, "You forgot to pick up my cake order. Arrived an hour and a half an hour late and finally forgot the shopping at some random restaurant." And held up another three fingers in total... Six.

"But-"

"Natsu, let me finish!" Erza grunted watching him deflate, "You will do six maths exercises."

"Only six?" Lucy question, disappointment clear in her voice.

Natsu glared at her, hoping she didn't encourage Erza to state more and gritted through his teeth, "Yes only six." He watched Lucy hold up her hands in a surrendered-manner.

"You two will stay at home. Lucy, you'll make sure Natsu will do those exercises." Erza sighed, "Once you are finished you are free to join us at the beach."

"That's unfair!" Natsu whined.

"Life's unfair!" Erza yelled back childishly, "Now keep out of trouble."

"Sorry, Lu-chan." The small blunette spoke up for the first time.

Natsu's eyes followed Erza and Levy filed out the room before hissing, "Bitch."

"I heard that!" She yelled back, "Do you want to do seven?!"

The Dragneel's face grew pale of that threating statement. He glanced over at Lucy; who in fact covered her head with the bed's duvet. No doubt her face was bright red.

"Are you sure that it is okay for those two to stay alone at the house, Erza?" Jellal questioned reaching for his girlfriend's hand as she entered the dining room, "They just got back together, who knows what they'll do?" He mumbled playing with her fingers.

The Scarlet heaved a knowing sigh and bit her lip in a considering manner, "Yes, I considered what would happen but it doesn't feel right separating them. After all yesterday was the first time they were alone in a very long." She snatched her beach bag off the kitchen island, "Besides, Lucy is a responsible girl. I trust her decisions for the time."

Gajeel chuckled with a devilish smirk attached to his lips, "That sounds about right, not about having much faith in the Salamander." His smirk broadened, "But I wouldn't trust the bunny girl either I bet her wild side is begging to come out."

"Gajeel!" Levy smacked his shoulder, "Don't be a pervert!"

The Redfox shrugged harmlessly, "Hey, they were in bed together; that's all the proof I need."

"Gajeel has a point, I saw Natsu leave our room last night." Gray pointed out playing with the floating bits of his cereal, "And never came back, it is a bit suspicious."

"Well, they must have been quiet because I didn't hear a thing." Levy huffed with her hands on her hips.

"You sleep like the dead, anyways." Gajeel chuckled.

The McGarden pouted at him, "I think Natsu is more sensitive about that type of stuff."

"What stuff?"

All eyes fell on Natsu as he rubbed his eyes like a tired little boy. He ran a hand through his hair in a sad attempt to rid her bed hand and absently yawned, staring at his friends in confusion.

"Stuff like puppies and rainbows." Gajeel stated, "Like girlie crap."

"I'm not a girl!"

"You have pink hair so you are about half way there." The Redfox snorted.

Natsu rolled his eyes, "My hair is not fucking pink and stop picking on it, you rusted bolt!"

"Is that all you got." Gajeel scoffed crossing his arms, "Because honestly that was pathetic."

"I'm capable of doing for worst, it is just too early for this shit!" The salmon-haired grumbled.

"Excuses!"

Natsu narrowed his eyes at his band mate but couldn't move as Erza raised her hand, sharing her glare between the two of them, "Natsu, I will stand with my warning." She shifted her eyes to the Redfox, "And you, watch your mouth or you will end up like him!"

Gajeel held his hands up in surrender, "I'll stop." He said submittedly, "I don't want to be stuck in the same room with this baffling idiot."

"Wait!" Levy announced before Natsu could launch himself at Gajeel, "We should go to the beach before it gets crowded."

"Juvia thinks that is a good idea." The Lockser swooned, "Seeing Gray-sama in a swim-suit."

"Juvia..." The Fullbuster sighed.

"Consider your ass saved by your girlfriend." Natsu hissed flipping his friend off as the others left the house.

"Natsu, that's eight!" Erza hollered closing the door.

"Shit!"


"C'mon, Gray-sama the water is wonderful!" Jude exclaimed, waving her hands frantically to gain the Fullbuster's attention.

The raven-haired lay like a corpse on the beach blanket benearth the umbrella; safe away from the sun. He adjusted his sunglasses, the Lockser's voice felt miles away to him as well as the children screaming and laughing around him. The heat pelted at his bod; sweat stuck to his skin and his mouth curled in discomfort. Gray was definitely a winter type of guy.

"Hot..."

Erza on the other hand took this opportunity to bask in the sun, lying on her stomach with her bikini top untied while Jellal fidgeted with the sun tan lotion he managed to pull out of her beach bag.

"Be generous with the lotion." Erza murmured against her forearm.

Light blush tinted his cheek as his hazel eyes bored over her bare back, "Y-yes." He stuttered slightly while he fumbled over the small tube.

"Dork." Gajeel chuckled under his breath, watching his band mate move around like a malfunctioning robot.

"Hey!" Levy scolded, smacking his shoulder lightly, "Don't be mean to your friends. I bet you're also like that!"

The Redfox snorted, burying his feet deeper in the sand, "At least I don't look like I'm going to pass out." He shrugged, "I can handle my woman. It isn't that hard."

"Oh really." The McGarden shifted all her weight onto her left foot, crossing her arms and cocking an eyebrow, "So, we are toys to you, is that all?!"

Gajeel nodded without hesitation, only to regret it seconds after. His red eyes stared at the short blunette in front of him, her gentle brown eyes glared daggers and her hair almost looked like cat's fur when the animal was threatened or angered. He opened his mouth to apologize even raising his hand in a forgiving manner.

"Oh... Do my ears deceive me, Gajeel?"

The said teenager's eyes shifted to Jellal's direction where his girlfriend spoke, "If you think girls are so easy to play, why don't we have a challenge." Erza pushed herself up on her elbows almost exposing her bare chest, her bikini lying beneath her... forgotten.

"Erza..." Jellal trailed off, his cheeks as red as her hair

"Go on." Gajeel prompted, unfazed.

"A volley ball match, boys against girls." The Scarlet smirked, "Loser buys lunch, you in?"

"Hey, who can refuse a free lunch." The black-haired mirrored her smirk, "You can count me in." His eyes snapped to his band mate's direction where the raven-haired groaned about the heat beneath is umbrella, "Gray, are you ready?"

The Fullbuster grunted, his right arm press against his forehead whilst his left hand pulled a thumbs up. The heat bothered him far too much for him to speak, even sluggish movement irritated him and now Gajeel wanted him to run around and hit a ball over a net, the only thing that sounds appealing is the free lunch wager.

"Juvia, are you in?!" Erza hollered to the blunette that was currently busy splashing around in the wave.

The Lockser squealed throwing the water in the air above her and turned her pale blue eyes onto the Scarlet, occasionally flickered them to the Fullbuster, "Oh yes, Juvia wants to play." She nodded eagerly before her hands held her cheeks, "Juvia doesn't want to hurt Gray-sama!"

Levy rolled her eyes with her hands planted on her hips, "Don't worry, it is just healthy competition." She turned her attention on the very quiet face-tattooed teen beside Erza, "Jellal, are you in?"

He nodded running a hand through his hair, "It is healthy competition, after all."

Erza's smile broadened, her eyes settled on his volley ball courts in the distance, "Well then, shall we begin?" She chuckled.

There were three volley ball court set up in a row, right next to a small beach plaza filled of clothing stores, beach shops and several restaurants. Both gender groups huddled in their team circle devising game plans to win this little bet. A short game of rock, paper, scissors chose who would serve first. Team Erza won by a death glare forge by the Scarlet herself.

"Let's do this." Erza narrowed her eyes at the opposition letting her team mates get into place; Juvia was in front and Levy at the back while she fisted her hands and served the ball.

Gajell immediately ran for contact, Jellal and Gray flanking him. Grunting in effort, the Redfox slapped the ball over the net with Erza instantly on the counter attack. Juvia cupped her hands as a leg up to launch the Scarlet in the air. Erza raised her hand up with a battle cry escaping her lips and swatted the ball down; breaking each of the boy's defence.

"Point one to the girls." Erza smiled victoriously, not even breaking a sweat, "First team to get to five wins."

"We're just giving you a head start." Gajeel panted, wiping the sweat off his brow.

"What's the matter, Gajeel?" Levy smirked, "You took a bit tired."

"Oh baby, I'm just warming up."

"It is too damn hot for this shit!" Gray exclaimed, serving the ball quite half-arsely.

"Gray-sama, watch Juvia!" The Lockser pranced towards the air-born object, "Wings of Love!" She yelled pushing the ball up and easily passed the last line of defence... Gray.

"I have no words." He was gobsmacked.

"Kyaa! It is like forbidden lovers." Juvia cooed, "Gray-sama is Romeo!"

The said boy dropped his head, "Juvia..."

"Two points!"

Jellal picked up the volley ball slowly and stared at it before glaring at his red-haired girlfriend, his competitive sense unlocked, "Get your head out of your arse, so we can win this thing!" He growled, throwing the ball in the air.

The serve managed to reach the small McGarden; who waited patiently for the ball with fisted hands. She furrowed her eyebrows together in concentration and hit the ball with enough strength to pop it over the net where Gajeel was waiting where a devilish grin taunted his lips. His red eyes focused on the object, his familiar chuckle escaped his lips as his hands whacked the ball back over to her. Within a blink of an eye, it flew past the petite blunette with big eyes and undoubtly scored the point.

"What's wrong shorty, too hard for you?"

Levy fixed a glared on the long-haired boy and snatched the ball of the sand, "Oh, I can handle it." Her eyes narrowed at him, "But it seems that your male stupidity is blocking your ability to not see girls as trophies.", She snarled throwing the ball at the Redfox, "You sexist asswipe!"

THWACK! Surprised at the sudden impact falling off his feet, the ball bounced off his forehead and managed to find safety outside the volley ball court; cushioned in the sand behind Jellal. Gajeel stumbled backwards, the palms of his hands covered his eyes as he groaned at his sudden headache.

"Okay..." Erza sighed, staring at the Redfox who looked like a corpse preparing to be buried, "The match is now over due to injury. Girls win by default."

"I can still play." Gajeel announced almost in a slur, he squeezed his eyes shut and opened them to focus on his surroundings, "A bump on the head wouldn't do any harm."

The rest ignored the teenager with a suspected concussion, all turned and wandered to the nearest restaurant of Erza's choice of course. Gajeel flopped back onto the sand, wincing at the sudden head rush and cradled his head with his arms in an attempt to soothe the pain. Small grains of sand tickled his cheek as he heard a light thud right next to his right ear. His red eyes peeked up at the source of sound; the short blunette that threw the ball.

"I didn't mean to throw it that hard." Levy mumbled, fisting her hands on her thighs, "Sorry."

"You have a mighty arm for such a small girl, shrimp." He chuckled.

"Don't call me that!" She yelled, hitting his chest on impulse.

Gajeel just laughed at the pouting girl above him. He raised his arm and reached for her face, the back of his index finger gently brushed her cheek. One swift touch made the McGarden feel like a blushing idiot, she hated that he smirked at her whenever he made her blush like he was proud of making her feel so stupid.

"That's my Levy."

The girl forgot to breathe for a short second, her name was spoken so easily, it just rolled off his tongue. Gajeel said her name for the first time in months. It felt strange yet satisfying. Her stomach dipped at how he practically whispered her name like it was only meant for her to hear.

"Gajeel-"

"Let's go to the others." He rushed out, averting his eyes, "I'm hungry."

Levy gave him a content sigh and a hopeful smile. She stood up and dusted her shorts, holding out her hand to help Gajeel off the sandy floor. She quietly giggled noticing the light tint of pink on his cheeks and the way he pursed his lips together like an embarrassed child but took her offered hand.

They made their way into the restaurant that took the appearance of a sports car with more of a feminine flare due to the bright colours of the walls and furniture (definitely a masculinity killer!). Erza's choice obviously was to embarrass the boys as well was to punish them because the sports bar was next door. They spotted Juvia waving wildly at them and the Scarlet nibbling her sponge cake; Jellal and Gray hang their head, trying to hide as Erza chose a window seat.

"Welcome to The Daffodil are you ready to order."

Jella cleared his throat, "Can I have a frilly rainbow swirl milkshake with extra yumtastic sprinkles."

"What picture do you want on the cream?" The waitress askes.

Jellal glanced at the options, "Plue, of course."

"Dude, I think your balls just rolled past you." Gajell gasped in mocked shock.

"Well what do you expect me to say!" He hissed, "Everything is fucking girlie!"

"Sorry sir, swearing isn't accepted here." The waitress glared at the tattooed boy, "That will be a ten jewel fine!"

"Are you shitting me." The Fernadez muttered under his breath.

"That is twenty jewels now, sir." She stated calmly.

Erza set her eyes on Jellal, a shiver crawled down his spine, killing any effort for him to rebut the waitress. He heaved a small sighed and averted his gaze from the waitress. The others used this time to place their orders; Gray and Gajeel simply ordered water to save themselves from further humiliation whilst the girls took the most expensive beverages on the menu since the boys were buying.

"Erza, how many slices of cake are you going to have?" Gajeel asked watching the plates start to pile up, "That's like your sixth one."

The Scarlet just hummed to herself, going for another bite of her already half-eaten slice, "I suggest you don't question, since you care buying lunch."

Gray's face grew pale since his wallet wasn't exactly the fullest and that Erza was going to eat this restaurant out of strawberry sponge cake. He felt a gentle tap on his thigh, his eyes shifted to Juvia. She smiled at him before looking at the television that hung on the wall just in front of them. There was some entertainment talk show displayed on the screen with a picture of Jude and Lucy on the right corner in a small square.

"Excuse miss, could you turn up the volume." He requested to the waitress the walk past them. She nodded and complied interrupting Gajeel and Erza's debate about the main course.

"Welcome back to Magnolia's buzz. I'm your host, Jenny." The blonde hostess smiled, "Now there has been a rumour that there's trouble in paradise with the Heartfilia family. Apparently a disagreement between father and daughter." The picture took up the screen before zooming back out into the corner, "Everything started with the recent charity event where Lucy Heartfilia was seen embracing the front man of 'Dragon's Revelation' Natsu Dragneel."

The pinkette beside her laughed, "I wouldn't blame her, that boy is smokin'!" She cleared her throat, "But here is the interesting part, Lucy was reportedly mumbling the Frontman's name during her father's press conference when she was asked a question."

"So will this secret love affair go public?"

"Not exactly, Natsu Dragneel has denied every dating rumour but he was seen holding hands with a blonde girl yesterday in Hargeon." The pinkette sighed, "Daddy Heartfilia also denied his daughter's relationship saying that..." A quote appeared on the screen, "My daughter is far too busy with school and the campaign so don't jump to ridiculous conclusions. Lucy wasn't feeling well that night and needed a friend, she was delusional."

"Ouch, daddy isn't too happy about that but he is happy to announce that the blonde beauty will be able to come down to the studio tomorrow for an exclusive interview."

"Yes, we also have another blonde hottie on our show tomorrow. The one and only Sting Eucliffe is going to perform his latest single." She clapped her hands together in glee, "This has been Sheri and..." She pointed to her blonde co-host.

"Jenny, thank-you and we will see next time on Magnolia's Buzz."

"Lu-chan..." Levy trailed off staring at the television blankly.

"Well, this is going to be interesting." Gajeel smirked, "What's your next move, Salamander."


"Are you serious!" Natsu exclaimed, ruffling his hair in frustration, "Who needs Trigonometry in life?!"

His onyx eyes narrowed at the question he was currently struggling with. The triangles danced across the page of his exercise book. He got to the point where he couldn't tell what the hypotenuse was or what the hell was sin, cos and tan. He hated Erza for this stupid punishment, he didn't know what he did wrong; it wasn't his fault they were chased by a lunatic in a police uniform.

His pen fell from his fingers and his head hit the coffee table with a loud thud, "The struggle is real, fuck triangles." He flicked his pen off the countertop, "Luuucy~" he whined rather childishly.

The Heartfilia was in the kitchen making the salmon-haired lunch since she was pretty sure his brain was going to be fried. Unlike Natsu she quite enjoyed the activities and moved through them fairly quickly while he was stuck on exercise six. She offered to help but he turned her down; wanting to try them by himself, no matter how long it will take and by the sounds he was making in the living room meant he was going to give up soon.

She picked up the pieces of French toast from the electric frying pan and placed it on two plates. She put the plates on a tray and took it to Natsu. The floor around the coffee table area was cover with maths paper; the pinkette nowhere to be found.

Lucy raised a brow, "Natsu?" She placed the tray on the counter top of the coffee table and shoved her hands on her hips, "Natsu?!"

She tucked a pieces of hair behind her ears, her eyes flickered to only possible hiding place in the living room. There was no way Natsu would just ditch her or maybe he was hiding from the maths. Her eyes fixed on a small truf of pink stuck out a little gap between the piles of papers. She crouched down and reached for the bundle of hair but before her fingers brushed the locks, a body rose out from under the papers making the blonde fall in fright.

"Lucy, I thought I was going die in there." Natsu blurted out.

"Natsu, you scared me... Again."

"Jeez, you're such a scaredy cat." The Dragneel snorted, sitting up and face his maths homework. He pouted at her, "Lucy, I'm stuck."

The blonde sighed and pushed all the papers of the coffee table into a small the closed his maths text books, "Maybe, you need a little break. You've been at it all day." She pulled him up off the floor, "Let's some T.V, hopefully that will dear your mind." She pushed him onto the coach.

Natsu smirked at her and pulled her closer to him. His hands rested on her hips as she stood between his legs, "I know that something else that could clear my mind."

Lucy's skin tingled beneath his touch, the way his onyx eyes travelled up and down her body, making her blush. Her hands held his shoulders and lent down until her mouth was next to his ear. Her light breath tickled his neck. Natsu's hands tightened around her hips at the sudden tease.

"How long do we have before they come back?" She hummed into his ears smirking once the body in front of her grew tense.

"About an hour." Natsu managed not to stutter.

Lucy giggled innocently and leaned towards lips, "That means we have enough time to..." She murmured against them but pulled away once he leaned in, "have some tea." She finished pushing Natsu deeper into the couch and left the spot between his legs.

"You can't just do that and walk away!" Natsu yelled as Lucy stood behind the back of the couch.

"Well, I just did." The blonde scoffed, "What are you going to do about it, huh?"

Natsu growled playfully, "This." And pulled her over the back of the couch onto him, "Wah, you're heavy."

Lucy sat up, her brown orbs narrowed at him and snatched the cushion that was next to his head, "Don't be rude!" She snarled, shoving the pillow into his face; smothering him, "Do me a favour and stop breathing!"

The Dragneel managed to push the cushion off his face, their heavy breathing became unison as both parties used the same amount of effort in the murderous activity. Natsu noticed Lucy straddling him, her tank top bunched up exposing her midriff.

His warm fingers brushed her exposed skin, a wolfish grin taunted his lips, "I like this position."

Lucy's smile twisted in embarrassment and three the pillow at him, it bounced off his head and fell to the floor, "Don't do that!"

"Do what?" His voice was innocent.

"Do this!" She blurted out, waving her hands around his chest and the space above him, "Whatever you're doing! Just stop-"

"Lucy."

She closed her mouth looking down at smug Natsu, "Do I make you nervous?" Her cheeks flushed bright pink, his index and middle finger lay on the inside of her wrist, "Because I can feel your pulse racing."

"Sh-shut up!" She stuttered, her breath hitched once Natsu kissed her wrist and slowly pulled her down toward him.

Ba-dump ba-dump

He gave her a gentle smile, his free-hand caressing her cheek. Her blond hair fell but behind her ears blocking them of their surroundings. His eyes never left hers but an occasional glance at her lips and flickered back to her eyes.

Ba-dump ba-dump

Her heart was ramming against her body tingled in delight, yearning for his kiss since this was far too slow for her liking.

Ba-dump ba-dump

"Natsu." She breathed, "Just kiss me already."

The Dragneel chuckled, "Somebody is eager." He smirked into the kiss.

Familiar heat laced their senses together. Natsu felt his heart beat as if it was wings of a dragon. His hands gripped tighter on Lucy's hips as her fingertips brushed the back of his neck in a way that she wanted to take charge. He pushed himself up and tugged her closer, her knees rubbed against his ribcage. Her hands caressed the scruff of his neck before threading her fingers through his hair. Her lips felt soft against his, he squeezed her upper thighs as her tongue protruded his mouth. Thrill spread through his veins, the kisses unlocked yesterday's lustful memories. He craved for the skin contact again.

A stifled moan escaped his slightly bruised lips, the blonde trailed light kisses up his neck and across his jawline. The gentle touch of her lips taunted his self-control to break; it was mesmerizing. Lucy had no clue what her touch did to him especially since she was trying to be the dominant one. His hands trailed up her exposed waist, his hands plucked at the hem of her shirt; silently asking permission to remove the bothersome article of clothing.

The bust of her bra was seen but a ringtone of a cell phone cut his wish short. They pulled the apart at the sound, Lucy's messy hair cascaded down her shoulders, her cheeks blushed a pale pink. Her bambi eyes were apologetic as she breathed a word that sounded like sorry, looking even more attractive in his eyes. She stood on her knees and arched her back reaching for her phone in her back pocket. Natsu took this chance and kissed her collarbone. Lucy resumed her position and pressed the phone to her ear.

Natsu nipped and licked a sensitive spot on her neck, his teeth gingerly grazed her bottom jaw as she spoke, "Hello?" His trail of kisses down her neck left her hot and flustered, revenge for teasing him earlier, "N-Nast-u." Her warning was more of a whimper; she was goo in his hands.

"Excuse me?" The voice was stern

Lucy's eyes widened and automatically sat up straight, "Father, how are you?" She stabled her voice.

Natsu froze. His hands shot off her hips as if in some way Jude could see what they were doing, he'll be castrated for sure. Lucy gave him a small smile and mouth, "Sorry." He returned a smile and caressed her cheek, his thumb brushed her skin.

"I hope you have been focusing on your studies and not fraternising with that Dragneel boy." Jude stated, "What have you been doing you sound out of breath."

Lucy released a nervous chuckled, "Erza and I went for a run on the beach front just before you called." She lied, "But, I was doing maths exercises with Natsu, I was tutoring him."

"Yeah, in anatomy." The pinkette purred into her other, she shuddered.

She heard her father sigh, "Lucy, gave being involved with him being very problematic lately, all these rumours are pulling attention to the two of you."

"Like you said they are rumours." She watched Natsu frown, his eyebrows furrowed together in confusion, "But you know how I feel about him."

"Lucy, you know the conditions."

She took a deep breath and laced her fingers with Natsu's giving his hand a tight squeeze. He'll be with you all the way, she encouraged herself, "Natsu and I are dating." She squeezed her eyes shut preparing herself for her father's voice. But there was silence...

"Father?" She heard mumbles on the other line, he must be discussing their conversation with his consultants for any problems to be resolve. They discussed the pros and cons on if Lucy should of gone to Magnolia School of Arts, they denied her going there but that was the only Jude did not listen to them.

"That won't do, Lucy." He clicked his tongue, "You are to attend an interview tomorrow, obviously there will a question about the two of you, I expect you to choose you answers wisely. I've already sent an outfit to your location so you can dress well."

"Da-"

"Now, Lucy don't mess up since there is so much at state." The smug tone of his voice sent shivers down her spine as well as the colour in her face drain, "Goodbye."

The line went dead. The phone slipped through her fingers and bounced on the couch. Lucy raked her hands through her hair, tugging her strands in frustration, her fingers trembled anxiously, her father's voice remained in her head. She squeezed her eyes shut and begged for peace.

"Lucy?"

Her eyes flickered open, she didn't want to break on her father's command. She needed to compose herself and stand up for herself. She couldn't stay in her father's shadow's forever, it was time for her to break free. Her brown eyes stared at the pair of onyx that looked back at her. Natsu wasn't going to leave her side, he promised her he wouldn't. She needed him, he made her stronger.

"Lucy?" He asked again.

The blonde captured his lips with hers, pushing him deeper into the couch. His taste washed all her anxiety away; it gave her courage to be bold and to be herself. With one more chaste kiss, she pulled away to face the smirking boy.

"What was that for?" He asked, his smirk widened.

"For luck." She gave him a wink, "Because, I have a plan."


A/n: so that was it! Stay tuned. I want to change the rating in two chapters time to M. What are your thoughts? So sting is singing next chaper, he is a pop prince so suggest a song:) the next chapter will be later as usual as exams are starting. Well thank you for reading!

B/N: I have had so much trouble getting this up so its late because of me. Soz dudes ( dude is unisex so I am including da ladiez) ;)