Wow it's been a really long time since I've entered in a new chapter of this. I am totally sorry for taking so long! I'm trying my best to make time for this and get my edits done, but my heads in 19 different places as of lately. Mainly because Mass has been hit with three heavy duty blizzards and I've been working extra hours and shoveling my whole life away. But here it is finally! I seriously hope you enjoy!

Disclaimer: -Shovels- I do not –shovels- own –shovels- Fairy Tail…ARG! –snows falls and buries-

Warning: LEMON LEMON LEMON LEMON….oh….LEMON!

Chapter 13: Jealousy on the Rocks

The walk to Fairy Tail was quiet, but Lucy didn't feel the awkwardness she expected to. She looked to her hand in Natsu's, wondering why she was so relaxed after the sexual encounter the night before. She and Natsu had finally stepped over the line of friends and ventured deeper into the unknown. They hadn't gone all the way; Lucy almost laughed when remembering how unsure Natsu had been afterwards. To see the guy who invaded her privacy every day hesitate at asking her to stay the night was humorous. Their night was memorable, and she knew from the embrace she woke up in that Natsu didn't regret it. Though a bit scared, she liked seeing where their relationship was headed.

"You think Gray's going to be jealous that I got some action before him?" She squeaked at his blunt question, smacking him with her free hand.

"You can-can't tell him about it!" He blinked, tilting his head in confusion.

"Why not?"

"It's too embarrassing! I don't want Gray to know what we did." Natsu pouted, grabbing her shoulder to face him.

"Who cares who knows? I'm proud to be with you; I want to show you off." Lucy should have known this was going to happen. Though she found Natsu's pride in their advancement cute, it was still embarrassing. She didn't want to hide their new status, but she didn't want her sex life posted on the Fairy Tail's message board. Was there a balance with the overzealous Aries? When she felt his fingers link through hers and saw his grin, Lucy felt her irritation slip away.

"You sure are a handful."

"Funny, you were saying the same thing last night when you—OW!" And there went his mouth again. Shaking her head while praying for patience, Lucy dragged her uncivilized best friend toward their favorite hang out. Lucy gently pushed the door open with her shoulder, letting out a relieved sigh at the loud bustle of the bar. Even if several things had developed between the guild mates, Fairy Tail would always be the same. And maybe, with a little luck, nobody would notice the change between the two of them.

"Well look what the sex kitten dragged in!"… Or maybe not. Lucy walked through the bar, blushing at the whistle that Cana sent at the sight of the two holding hands. She didn't say another word, simply tilting her beer toward the newcomers. The 'whoops' and cheers continued to follow them throughout the room. By the time the two got to the bar, Lucy could hear the whispering and snickers through the lively bar.

"Hello Lucy, Natsu." Mira greeted the two with a smile, but the twinkle in her eye showed she had also taken note of their entrance. The sparkle only brightened when Natsu hopped onto the stool next to Lucy, sliding his arm around her shoulder.

"Have you seen Gray?! I've gotta rub something in the ice prick's face."

"Yes, he's around here somewhere. He had to drop Juvia off at her car since she spent the night at his house. She didn't stay long, saying she had to find someone. But from the kiss Gray left of her cheek, I'm sure their date last night went very well." A wink from Mira deflated Natsu's smile, the pink-haired boy dropping his chin to his free hand.

"Did he already make a move on Juvia? Damn that guy moves fast. Maybe we should go back home, Luce."

"Natsu!" Lucy chided, Mira simply laughing at the sheepish smile Natsu gave her. Lucy looked back to Mira, hesitating before she spoke. "So, did anything happen after I left the bar that night?"

"Nothing as serious as your night, I'm sure." Despite the sweet tone Mira used, Lucy knew that the bartender wasn't naïve. Trying to avoid talking of her sex life, Lucy latched onto the slight hope Mira left open.

"But that means something happened. Did you talk to Laxus?" At the mention of the brute, Natsu scoffed.

"Why would she want to talk to that idiot?" Lucy glared over to Natsu, making him roll his eyes and stand up. "Fine, I'm going to find Gray before Lucy kicks me out of her bed."

"Because that worked so much before," Lucy muttered. If Natsu heard her he didn't comment, Natsu's interest caught by a flash of spiky black hair.

"I'm really happy for you, Lucy," Mira said, watching Natsu finally locate his friend. Natsu wasted no time jumping onto Gray's back, rubbing his knuckles hard into the top of Gray's head. The older boy growled and tossed Natsu over his shoulder, effectively starting a fight on the Fairy Tail floor. Lucy watched the two in amusement. It was refreshing to see Natsu keep his personality intact despite the change in their friendship. But for now, she had another relationship to focus on.

"So what actually happened?" It was weird to be the one grilling Mira. The older woman tended to interrogate any girl who sat at the bar. She put her elbows on the laminated wood, leaning her head into her hands. Lucy wasn't budging from her stool until she got the full story from Mira.

"Listen, Lucy. Laxus is a really nice man. He's got a good head on his shoulders, and he's an extremely hard worker. A little childish at times, but what man isn't? He'll make someone a wonderful husband and an even better father. The woman who captures his heart will be lucky." That was not what Lucy wanted to hear. She frowned while Mira glanced around the guild, a content look on her face. "I'm happy with everything I have."

"So you're really not going to let me help you?"

"Didn't you already make my dream possible? My friends are happy in love; what more can I ask from you?" Mira turned her head when her name was called, moving to the group of drunken men with a smile. Lucy groaned, shaking her head. This wasn't right; Mira deserved the same treatment that everyone else did. If not more! Lucy had gotten Gray to give Juvia a chance, Gajeel to open up to Levy, and even Erza to have a dinner with Jellal. Mira had refused to move an inch. Lucy expected resistance, but this was going a bit too far for even a Virgo.

At this point, Lucy simply needed a miracle.

"Yo." Lucy tensed at the dark rumble behind her. Slowly spinning on her stool, Lucy yelped slightly when Laxus pushed his face near hers. It was probably to make sure he had her attention, not that he really needed to get so close. When Laxus talked, people listened.

"Laxus! What are you doing here?" Lucy yelped again when Laxus grabbed the back of her shirt, dropping her to her feet before pointing to her astrology table.

"You and I need to talk." Lucy blinked at his serious tone. She didn't answer verbally, but followed the tall man toward her business table. Silently she ran through the past few days, wondering what she had done to piss off the Leo. As far as Lucy could remember, she hadn't seen Laxus since his conversation with Mira at the bar that night. Since then, it was rare to even see the grumpy man in the bar. That itself was an anomaly, since Laxus watched the business like a hawk. As far as she could see, he wasn't sick like many had theorized. So then what kept him away from his second home? And how did it involve Lucy?

"Did I miss an appointment with you?" Lucy asked, trying to make herself comfortable. It was extremely hard with Laxus staring at her so intensely.

"No." Even his voice sounded more serious, which Lucy didn't think possible. She gulped nervously, glancing around for her pink-haired companion. When she saw Natsu and Gray both being scolded by Ezra, Lucy knew she was on her own.

"Okay…then what—"

"That night I walked in on you and Mirajane in the bar…why were you talking about me?"

"Oh, you heard that?" She hesitantly laughed, trying to buy herself time as she tried to think of a logical reason for the two girls discussing the intimidating guy. But when she noticed his casual glance to the bartender, Lucy felt some of her nerves disappear. Maybe because the fierce look he gave to anyone who crossed his path seemed to intensify when watching Mira smile at the enamored guys at the bar. A devilish smile appeared on her face, realizing that the miracle she had been looking for was right in front of her. She had been focusing on the wrong side of the relationship. Mira may never go after Laxus, but the Leo was her client. If she could just get him to ask Mira on a date… "Mira was just telling me how hard of a worker you are."

"Oh?" She tried to sound casual as his skeptical gaze looked back at her. Leos were much smarter than they let on, so she'd have to walk a very thin line with her plan.

"I mean, you two have known each other for so long that she's seen you grow into a very handsome man. She even said something about a girl being lucky to have you as their mate." Lucy was paraphrasing a little, but it paid off. She saw his cocky smile and heard the confidence in his voice.

"It's not like I've sat around this lazy guild and done nothing. It'd be a waste of talent." Lucy had to stop herself from rolling her eyes. Leos sure were full of themselves, especially if anyone stroked their ego. Trying to keep his focus off of himself, Lucy twirled her hair around her finger and sighed.

"It's kind of a shame that you don't want me to set you up." Hiding her smirk, Lucy could practically hear his curiosity when he spoke.

"Why?" She shrugged, sending a glance to Mira again.

"Well, Mira has been asking me about the compatibility of Leos and Virgos."

"Anyone in particular?" Giggling at his immediate interest, Lucy placed her finger over her lips to show her lips were sealed. "That's a yes."

"Not my place to tell. But I guess she's been wondering about a specific Leo for a while. If I was going to pair up Mira with anyone at the bar, my best guess would be a Leo. He may be born in mid August." Making sure to slip that last part in, Lucy felt her hopes growing at his arched eyebrow. This idea could really work!

"So why haven't you done your matchmaking yet?"

"Well for one, Mira's not one of my clients."

"But the Leo is, right?" She tried to keep the smile off her lips as Laxus started to play along. Though her scheme was getting riskier with each second, she could see the curious lion falling deeper into her plan.

"It's possible. But Mira's not sure how the Leo in question feels about her. Leos are very loud about their opinions, and she's under the impression that every Leo is a playboy. I've explained to her that older Leos tend to wait for the one they plan to settle down with, but she's set on letting her Leo go."

"This is why I hate your bullshit astrology. It gives girls like Mirajane the wrong impression on guys because they don't act like a horn dog. It doesn't take into account their level or respect for the girl, or the fact they work for the Old man."

"So you do like Mira!" Laxus crossed his arms, glaring at Lucy.

"You've been my "matchmaker" for weeks and you're just figuring this out?" Even though he was making fun of her again, Lucy couldn't stop herself from smiling. She knew it! Laxus, whether he wanted to admit it or not, had done several "Leo" things to give off the impression he was into Mira. Though Laxus tended to keep his distance from many in the guild, he always made sure to talk to Mira. He always used her full name, unconsciously trying to make himself stand out. He went to her with issues involving his grandfather, and treated her as if she was already a part of his immediate family. He asked her to accompany him to several of his black-tie affairs at work, and Lucy had never heard him say something negative of Mira. He had too much respect for her to do that.

"That's great! But then again…" Lucy let out a long sigh, turning back to face the bar. "She's got a huge group of admirers. Those guys over there have been trying to get a date out of her for years."

"Those losers? They don't do anything but drink and drool; Mirajane's too classy of a woman to date one of them."

"I don't know, I heard one of them does have a good inheritance from their parent's estate. They could probably take care of Mira if she ever wanted to leave Fairy Tail." Taking a risk, Lucy looked over her shoulder and watched Laxus grimace at the statement.

"Mirajane would never leave Fairy Tail. Her and gramps are too close."

"I sure hope so." Laxus growled at her disbelieving tone, and Lucy knew her last comment sealed the deal. Now, the rest of her plan relied on a little luck and a little Leo jealousy. A few seconds went by before Laxus stormed away from the table, a nearly giddy Lucy following. The two retuned to Lucy's previous spot, though Laxus didn't seem to care if the blond came with him or not. His focus was on the bartender that seemed to gravitate toward them instantly.

"I hope you're playing nice, Laxus."

"I don't do nice." Even at his gruff reply, Mira simply smiled and held out his usual beer to him.

"Well, in any case, try not to tease Lucy. Our little friend Natsu may not like you picking on his potential girlfriend."

"You and flame-brain?" Lucy nodded at Laxus, who let out a short laugh and smirked. "Should have seen that coming from the way you two hung all over each other."

"Laxus!" Mira reached forward and tapped his nose, sending him a disproving look while his eyes went cross-eyed looking at the spot she hit. "What did I just say about that?"

"Yeah yeah, I've got more important things to worry about." His eyes focused back on her, his face forming into a serious scowl. Mira, used to the common look on him, simply smiled and nodded.

"It was nice to see you. I'll let you be on your way then." Lucy wanted to tell the girl to stay, but she didn't have to. An arm reached over the bar, grasping the slender wrist and holding Mira in place. Mira looked up at Laxus, a questioning look in her eyes.

"My business is with you," He said, Lucy's smile brightening when Mira faintly blushed.

"I see. Did you and Master have another argument?"

"No, the old man is off at some meeting."

"Does it involve another event you'd wish me to attend, then?" Laxus glanced to the group of men at the bar, who were watching Mira like dogs in heat.

"No."

"Then what's wrong, Laxus?" He didn't move his gaze from the men, his eye barely twitching. It made Lucy giggle, knowing Leos had jealousy issues. And they also had quick ways to squash the competition. Making a 'tsk' noise, Laxus pulled Mira over the bar and into a swift kiss. The smile Lucy had dropped in pure shock, watching the passionate kiss in awe. She almost forgot that Leos took what they wanted with little care of where they were. Having an audience was a benefit in their eyes, loving to show off their feelings to others. Especially love rivals. The men across the bar stared in horror, though Lucy wasn't sure if it was because of Laxus kissing Mira, or the way the bartender willingly responded. The kiss left Mira's face flushed, and Laxus with a cocky smirk.

"The first time Lucy babbled about my sign, she said something about liking extravagant things. Clothes, dates, and women alike. I need the best and only the best in order to be satisfied." Mira nodded quietly at his statement, seeming amused at the fact he remembered Lucy's evaluation. "You fit that description, Mirajane."

"And how did you come to that conclusion?" Despite the kiss she had received, Mira kept her composure. Lucy wasn't sure how she did it, especially knowing Mira's true feelings. Then again, Cancers were water signs. They were known to be much more emotional than the stable earth signs like Virgos. How many times had Mira been the one to deal with the police after Natsu and Gray got into trouble? Mira was also the one that took control during any crisis in Fairy Tail. She was used to keeping her cool in extravagant situations. But Laxus had left an impression on the strong-willed woman, which was notable by the red-stained cheeks she possessed.

"You are a woman who knows how to keep order and look good doing it. This guild is a wild zoo, and that's when Natsu is out of town. Nobody would be able to handle this place if they weren't the best." Mira slid her white hair behind her ear, her eyes lowering to the bar she had stood behind for so long.

"Fairy Tail is my passion; I don't see it as a troublesome." She looked up at him and smiled. "Plus, this is where I get to see you. I'll always consider this chaos my home. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else."

"It won't be tonight." The blunt statement was followed by Laxus moving, Mira watching him move behind the bar. Yanking the string that kept her bar apron on, Laxus spun Mira around and captured her biceps in his large hands. "Tonight, you'll be my date."

"And if I say no?" She still held her sweet tone, but the question raised Laxus's eyebrow. There was a shared stare between the two, proving that Mira was a woman who wasn't afraid to stand up to any man. She did work for the rough and tough bar, after all.

"You won't." But Laxus wasn't just any guy. His hand slid to the small of her back, pulling her curvaceous hips into his. Their bodies melded perfectly together, making a pair that many would be envious of.

"And the bar?" She asked quietly, though didn't resist his aggressive touch. She was the perfect balance of passive and proactive for the Leo. Laxus glanced toward Lucy, smirking.

"My matchmaker can take care of it, right? She is a bartender too, after all. We don't pay her to sit here."

"Oh sure, no problem. I wasn't planning on doing anything on my day off…" Lucy mumbled, though the sarcastic reply was ignored by the headstrong man. He looked back down at Mira, nodding.

"You'll be ready for eight tonight. Wear that black dress I like." She tapped her lower lip with her finger, seeming to toy with the idea of heeding his request.

"We'll see." She moved to turn away, but his hand on her chin stopped her. A second later he possessed her mouth with a kiss, bringing the shorter girl to her toes. She was much more receptive this time, stroking his cheek softly with her fingertips while kissing back. He broke away slowly, smirking at how long it took for Mira to open her eyes again. Finally he moved back from the bar, dropping his large hand on Lucy's head as he walked toward the exit.

"Thanks for the help, maybe we'll keep you around," Laxus mumbled, making Lucy's eyes widen in shock. Since when had Laxus ever thanked someone? She felt herself smile in personal achievement, finally winning Laxus's favor. She turned to Mira once Laxus had exited Fairy Tail, squealing at the dreamy look on Mira's face.

"Congrats!" Lucy shouted, throwing her hands up in the air. Mira looked to her fellow barmaid, shaking her head.

"You really were determined to pair everyone up, weren't you?"

"Just the ones who I knew deserved it," Lucy replied. And she meant it, too. Mira and Laxus both needed each other, and they deserved to be happy. Even if Laxus had made her job difficult, he did more than enough for Fairy Tail for Lucy to repay him. Her reasons for Mira were self-explanatory. She, along with Natsu, had been the constant backbone to 'Operation Layla' being a success. It couldn't be considered a complete mission without Mira ending up with the electric Leo.

"What am I supposed to do with you?" Despite the motherly comment, Lucy could see how pleased Mira was with what had just transpired. Lucy only smiled, the two spending the next hour talking. The topics ranged from Natsu's eating habits, to who would be taking care of the fall festivities this year. Lucy had noticed Juvia coming into the bar, though she seemed distracted by something. Not wanting to butt into something that wasn't her business, Lucy left the searching woman alone. If Juvia wanted to talk, she would make it known.

Natsu would pop in and out of the conversation in-between brawls with Gray, Elfman, and whoever else dared to comment on his shortness. Despite each fight, he made it a point to leave her with a kiss, something that warmed Lucy from the inside. For once in her life, she felt comfortable by someone's side.

When the conversation switched to Lucy's progress, the girl could barely contain her smile.

"From what I've seen, everything is going pretty well with your couples."

"I think so too. Wendy and Romeo are smooth sailing, while Evergreen and Elfman are pretty much attached at the arguing hip. I've yet to get an update about how the date with Gray and Juvia went last night, but from what you said earlier I must assume it was a huge success. You and Laxus are finally going on a long awaited date. From what I can get from Erza, Jellal has been making a very strong effort to work on their communication skills. Though their sail isn't fully up, at least their boat is operational. Even Levy and Gajeel seem to be heading toward a real relationship status!"

"And here we thought the rough and tough Gajeel could never soften up," Mira teased with a smile. Lucy went to respond, but the slamming of the bar's door caught both women's attention. Lucy's glance over her shoulder greeted her with Levy's disheveled appearance. It looked like the small woman ran the whole way to the bar. Frantically she glanced around the bar, obvious in her search for a specific target. When her eyes landed on Lucy, Levy nearly stumbled over herself to get to the bar.

"Lucy! Have you seen Gajeel?"

"No, but I've only been here for a little while today. What about you, Mira?" The bartender shook her head, sending Levy a worried look when the blue-haired girl tensed. "Can I ask what's got you so unnerved?"

"He's really gone…" The whispered response from Levy shocked Lucy, the astrologist jumping off her stool to meet Levy's downcast stare.

"What are you talking about? Gajeel wouldn't just leave." At Lucy's reply, Levy shakily held out a piece of torn paper in her hands.

"Read this." Glancing once to Mira, Lucy slowly unfolded the note and read it's nerving contents out loud.

"Shrimp,

By the time you're handed this, I'll be dust. You won't have to deal with me again. Tell Jet and Droy to keep a good eye on you, or I'll find them. Sorry for the problems I've caused. Just comes with being around a guy like me.

Keep looking to the stars, nerd."

"Problems? You think he means that attack from his old gang?" Mira asked softly, her hand clasping over her own heart when Levy's eyes watered.

"I knew Gajeel's background; I didn't mind! So why is he ending things? Why did those stupid men have to come and ruin everything? I don't want him to go away!" She cried out, the pale girl's knees shaking before she dropped to the ground. Lucy followed her best friend's path, kneeling in front of Levy.

"Levy…" Lucy whispered, Levy's hands covering her face.

"He didn't even say goodbye to my face. And we finally…I don't want him to leave me," Levy whimpered out, her tears dripping onto the hardwood floor beneath them.

"Lucy." Mira's call of her name pulled Lucy's attention to their surroundings. She glanced around the bar, realizing that a few people had noticed the bookworm's tears. Though nobody had come forward, she knew it wouldn't be long until the Fairy Tail family would get involved. Levy was a very loved part of Fairy Tail, and nobody took kindly to others hurting her. Especially if the perpetrator was Gajeel. Not wanting her friends to start a misunderstood riot, Lucy wrapped her arms around Levy and helped her back to her feet. With a little guidance from Mira, the three managed to find a private room away from the Fairy Tail crowd. Lucy and Levy sat down on the spare bed, a room normally used for people who were a little too drunk to drive home.

"Can you handle the bar for just a little longer?" Lucy asked, Mira nodding with a confident smile.

"I'll calm anyone down who gets too rowdy. We've got some time until my dinner with Laxus; I'll have Lisanna bring my dress and make-up to the bar. Worry about Levy, the rest is taken care of." Mira winked at her thankful friend, making sure to close the door behind her when she left. Feeling a little better about her time frame, Lucy brought her attention back to the destroyed girl sitting beside her.

"When did you get this note?" Lucy asked, Levy sniffling slightly before she looked back at the tear-stained letter.

"I went for a book run out of town this morning; a city next to Magnolia had special ordered a book for me. It was a day trip, but I didn't think anything would happen while I was gone. When I returned, this was on my door. I asked my neighbors, and they said that nobody fitting Gajeel's description was near my apartment." Lucy paused at the information, slightly surprised. Gajeel was not someone who blended into the normal crowd. More times than not, Lucy had heard Gajeel complaining about someone calling the cops on him simply because of his 'intimidating figure' hanging around a certain area of town. With multiple tattoos, piercings, and a less than forthcoming smile, the news wasn't really surprising to anyone who he told his story to. Even after knowing him for a while, Gajeel could be a little intimidating.

"So then who—" Before Lucy could get the question out, a familiar voice entered the room.

"It was Juvia." Both girls sent a confusing look toward the now opened door, the self-proclaiming woman guiltily looking to the wall. "Juvia was the one who taped the note to Levy's door."

"You? But…why?" Levy asked, Juvia shaking her head.

"Juvia wasn't supposed to give Levy the note until tonight. Juvia was told she had to wait until Gajeel was out of town. But Juvia could not let her best friend destroy his own happiness! So Juvia came to Fairy Tail today, looking for Levy. When Levy wasn't here, Juvia tearfully left Gray-sama's side in order to track Levy down. But despite Juvia's best attempts, Levy was nowhere to be found. So Juvia left the note at Levy's house and waited at Fairy Tail. Juvia wanted to ask for help in locating Levy, but she knew Lucy and Mira would ask questions that Juvia couldn't answer without breaking Gajeel's trust even more."

"No, I understand. You did well, Juvia." At Lucy's praise, the quiet woman blushed and nervously brushed her hair behind her ear.

"Juvia will be yelled at later by Gajeel, but Juvia doesn't care as long as Gajeel ends up happy. Gajeel is planning on leaving town at seven—"

"Tonight?!" At Juvia's nod, Levy gasped in pain. Glancing to the clock, Levy realized that the deadline was less than an hour away. How was she supposed to find Gajeel? Besides Fairy Tail, the only places Levy had been with Gajeel was her apartment and their date. He was a man of mystery, which she normally enjoyed until tonight. It was hopeless.

Maybe we weren't supposed to be together after all… Levy's thought tore through her heart, making her lower her head.

"—but Juvia knows where he is right now." Yanking her head up, Levy stood quickly at Juvia's new information, grasping her friend's hand in a panic.

"Could we make it there in time? Before he leaves?" Juvia nodded, yanking the smaller girl toward the door.

"Juvia will take Levy there now."

"Good luck girls! I'm entrusting Levy with you, Juvia!" Lucy's call to the two blue-haired women made Juvia smile, her heart warming slightly at the level of trust Lucy placed in her. The two girls ran out of Fairy Tail, Levy quickly putting on the brakes as soon as the door shut behind them. Confused, Juvia glanced back at the girl who seemed lost in contemplation.

"Levy?" Juvia's calling of her name snapped Levy from her trance, the younger girl nodding once.

"Sorry Juvia, but we need to make a pit stop first."

"Get on the motorcycle, cat." As if expecting Pantherlily to respond, Gajeel glared at the cat that continued to nap on the table in his work area. He glanced to his phone, watching the numbers switch to "7:05". He was already later than he wanted to be. He was supposed to be out of town by now. He would have been riding with the sunset if not for the fact that he left his spare helmet at the garage he worked at. Normally, something like that would be replaceable for him. Honestly, he could buy a better one down the road if he really needed it. He glanced to the helmet in his hands, instantly regretting it when remembering the only woman who wore it. As clear as a picture, Gajeel could see Levy's smile while fastening said object around her head. If he closed his eyes, he could even hear her arguing with him the night he took her on their only date.

"Your family is at Fairy Tail; we all forgave you a long time ago!" But with every good memory he had with Levy, the last night they had walked to her apartment hit him like a ton of bricks. In that one night, Gajeel was reminded that nobody could outrun their past. He could work for Fairy Tail, he could repent any way that Makarov saw fit. It didn't take away from the fact that at one point, Levy's life meant nothing to him. He had nearly gotten her killed. That was something that he could never forgive himself for.

Levy deserved a guy who would never make her cry. The little shrimp had dealt with his bullshit long enough; didn't she deserve someone to treat her right?

"Someone who doesn't come from bad genes and a juvi record," Gajeel muttered, tightening his hold on the helmet before tossing it under his motorcycle seat. Once securing the item, Gajeel glanced back to the lackadaisical cat and groaned. "If you don't get your ass on this bike, then I'm leaving you here. You got that?"

Pantherlily opened one eye, his tail swishing once before he lazily stood. As if to show how little Gajeel's threat made him nervous, Lily stretched lazily before walking toward the running motorcycle. He climbed onto the handlebars, hoping into a basket that Gajeel had haphazardly tied to the front of his bike. The black cat walked around in the basket, seeming to test its reliability before looking back to his owner and meowing.

"Yeah, I know how much you're protesting this. Don't you think I already got enough sass from Juvia? It took me nearly an hour for her to agree to give Levy the note; I don't need any lip from you. We're just going to go hang out in a hotel for a couple weeks. We'll be back home once I'm sure the little one is over me. Can't be too hard with frick and frack hanging around her." Gajeel gritted his teeth when thinking of how happy Jet and Droy would be without him in the picture. They were never huge fans of him, not that he lost a minute of sleep over it. Despite his apathetic opinion of them, he knew having them around would help Levy get over him. They were good friends to his bookworm, even if they did try to make a few too many passes at her.

He blinked once when realized what just went through his head.

"My bookworm? Jesus, Natsu's stupidity is rubbing off on me. Now I really do need to get out of here before I start growing pink hair and sneaking into Levy's window." He shook his head and managed to climb onto his motorcycle. Giving Lily a pat on the head, Gajeel gunned up the engine to his motorcycle.

"Did you hear that?" The kickback was loud enough for Levy to hear as she and Juvia entered the front of the shop. Levy instantly remembered the sound, her arms tightening around the object that she had made the pit stop for. Juvia glanced to Levy and then quickly pushed her away from the door.

"Gajeel keeps his motorcycle in the shop out back. Juvia knows he'll be there. Hurry!" Taking no time to think about her actions, Levy ran toward the back of the shop. Her breath caught when she saw the man in question, the shock of actually finding him in time. Nerves stilled her, her eyes widening when he instantly noticed her presence. His eyes bore into hers, and she knew that this conversation was going to be a struggle. His stubbornness was rearing its ugly head, and Gajeel sneered at her before lowering his gaze.

"So Juvia told you early, huh? I should have known that she wouldn't keep her trap shut. Well, whatever you've come to tell me, save it. Fairy Tail ain't the thing for me."

"You don't mean that," Levy said softly, Gajeel closing his eyes at the sound of her voice. It sounded sweeter than he remembered. Trying not to show how affected he was, Gajeel adjusted his mirror and scowled at his own reflection.

"You should just go back now. This conversation won't change a thing." Levy tried not to let his words get in her head. She knew, deep down, that he was saying anything he could to keep her away. But if she let him go, there was no telling if she'd ever get a chance like this again. She glanced down at the object in her hands, then walked forward to place her hand on the handle of his bike. She saw him visibly tense, his fingers clenching just inches from where her hand was.

"If you really want me to let you go, I will. But first, please take this as a parting gift."

"I don't need anything from you." And yet, despite his words (which lacked any of the venom they used to), Gajeel glanced to the present she dropped in the basket Pantherlily was sitting in. His eyes narrowed, staring at the book. In bold letters, 'Star Gazing for Dummies' curled over the cover. "I was out of town today because I had special ordered this book for you. I was hoping that the next time we took a ride on your bike, we could use this to find even more constellations together. But considering the circumstances, you'll have to use it on your own."

He remained silent, watching Lily casually rubbing against the binding of the book. His eyes never wavered from the words on the front, and Levy bit her lower lip in fear of him taking it as an insult. She had searched many stores for the right kind of book for Gajeel. Though she was an avid reader, she knew he wasn't into novels like her. Astronomy books would be too wordy, and though she didn't diminish his intelligence, she was sure he wouldn't waste his time with that type of extensive reading. After nearly giving up, the store owner from another town had told her about this book. Though it would take over a week to come in, and the shipping would be more than she wanted to spend, Levy didn't think twice about saying yes.

Taking a slow breath, Levy took a step back from his bike with a pained smile.

"I guess I should let you go. You've got a ways to travel, from what I've been told. Just…call Mira or Lucy from time to time. Let them know you're doing okay. I-I would…worry otherwise." She knew her tears were filling her voice, despite her desperate attempt to keep them inside. She blinked as much as she could, but they fell down her cheeks like rivers. She nearly choked on a sob when he nodded, Levy's body shaking with restraint. All she wanted to do was hug him; to grasp onto him tightly and refuse to let him go. But Gajeel wasn't the type of man to stay where he didn't want to, and she wasn't the person who would hold someone back if they desired to leave. Levy closed her eyes tightly, trying to hold onto any dignity she had as she turned away from Gajeel's still form.

Once again, she would be leaving without saying goodbye.

"Why?" She gasped in surprise at the strain of his voice, stopping her in her tracks. Her body tensed when she felt his chest brush her back, Gajeel moving faster than her brain could comprehend. Trying to ignore the automatic shiver Gajeel always caused in her body, Levy stared at her feet. Her eyes slowly closed again, a sad smile pulling at the edges of her lips.

"Because…all I want to do is spend time with you. And, I thought, maybe you did too."

"If you stay by my side, you'll only risk getting hurt again. I'm not a good man, Levy."

"No!" She turned to him sharply, fingers shaking as she clutched onto his black sleeves. Never before had she raised her voice to Gajeel until today. She shook her head twice to show how wrong she thought he was, refusing to back down. "You've done bad things, I know that. And maybe before you weren't the kindest to me or the Fairy Tail bar. But since you've left that gang, you've changed who you are. The man who did all those terrible things…he's gone. And all that's left is the real you."

"And who do you think that is? Some prince charming coming to sweep you off your feet? That's not me. You shouldn't waste your time on me."

"Is it still a waste if I love you?" Gajeel considered himself extremely hard to surprise. But hearing such a bold statement from Levy caused his mouth to dry and his eyes to widen. Her face resembled a tomato, but she seemed confident in her question. He wanted to dismiss her confession. Several women before had been shot down by the lone wolf. After all, who could seriously love a man that could never be owned? He enjoyed his freedom as much as he enjoyed riding his bike or beating the crap out of Natsu. But his eyes couldn't turn away from her earnest stare. Levy stood in front of him, with her heart in her hand.

And he was going to hell for wanting to steal it.

"You're killing me, shrimp." The strained reply was followed by Gajeel's lips roughly capturing hers. Levy closed her eyes in pleasure, her lithe body pressing itself into his strong chest. Gajeel didn't relent in his assault on her mouth, his hands running down her back before capturing her butt in his hands. She squeaked into the kiss, but didn't pull away from his touch. Instead she shivered, then tossed her arms around his neck. The metal head carried his captive into the garage, hoisting her onto the cleaned off work bench. Stepping in-between her legs, Gajeel was more than thankful that he had taken the time to clean off his stuff before he left. She pulled away from his devilish mouth to take a short breath, which was quickly used when his lips travelled down to her neck. She shivered and grasped tightly at his shoulders, the slight sting of her nails pricking his skin. The action made him grin into the column of her neck. He nipped gently at the pulse in front of him and chuckled at her soft moan. He was caught by surprise when she pushed back against his body, her shaky legs parting wider to fit him flush against her hips.

Gajeel smirked at her attempt to match his possessive movements. For such a small woman, she certainly didn't like backing down. Having a sense of pride he had no right to feel, Gajeel pulled away from her neck and tried to capture the gaze of the breathless bookworm in front of him. When she finally raised her glance his way, Gajeel bit back his grin. His bite marks were very evident on her pale neck. Even if he did leave tonight, his mark would be on her for every guy in Fairy Tail to see.

But didn't that defeat the purpose of him leaving? He lost some of his smugness when realizing his contradicting behaviors. Though her cheeks were red and her desire to continue their exploration was nearly palpable, he grimaced at the tear lines that remained on her face. No matter what he did, Gajeel made her cry. He couldn't even get away from her without infliction some damage. Angry at himself, he brushed his knuckles along her tear stained cheek.

"Gajeel?"

"If you stay with me, I can't promise I won't make you cry again. I wasn't kidding when I said I ain't no Romeo. Before I met you, women were not a priority or concern of mine. I didn't even think about love. I had sex for sex, and nothing else. That is who I am. But…" his voice trailed off for a second when he glanced at the difference of skin between his hand and her cheek. He was tan from working outside, while she was almost snow white from locking herself deep in the library. Her skin felt like silk against the roughness of his mechanic hands. Holding her so close to him, Gajeel was almost sure he would break her without even meaning to. He scoffed at his own thought, scolding himself before continuing. "If you walk down this road with me, struggle and strife will follow after you. I am not a man who is supposed to have a happy ending or—"

"Stop saying that!" He saw her cheeks puff out in anger before she slapped the palm of her hand on his forehead. He blinked once at the action, trying to process what had just happened. She shook her head sharply, her frustration evident in her voice. "You can say all you want about bad luck or fate, but the only way you're going to know for a fact that we end up in pain is if you walk away. I'm not weak; Fairy Tail has helped me get stronger than I ever dreamed! No matter what comes in my path, I'm not afraid to try and deal with it the best I can. And if I can't, isn't that what you're here for? To help me when I'm alone? To make sure I get through the day?"

"You're making me sound like your personal body guard," Gajeel said, smirking when her cheeks lit up in embarrassment.

"N-Not a bodyguard! Just…l-like a boyfriend." Now it was his turn to change color. Never in Gajeel's life had the thought of being someone's boyfriend not repulsed him. Being owned was not something that Gajeel would ever allow for himself. It had been a promise he had made to himself the second he left the gang. When you were someone's property, you lost a part of yourself. He had learned that the hard way a long time ago.

But Fairy Tail had proven that sometimes, it wasn't about being owned rather than who owned you. Since day one of working at Fairy Tail, the old man had never abused his power or strained his workers for the benefit of profit. He took time to manage money, make secure schedules, and figure out any problems that his workers needed fixed. If Gajeel needed a day off, Makarov didn't require him to pay him back or do a favor in return. The leader of Fairy Tail didn't see his workers as pawns like his gang leader. These people were family, even to someone who had done as much damage as Gajeel.

And then, there was the sweetness of the woman in front of him. He had never imagined that someone would be able to look at him and see something other than trouble. Since the moment he was born, people thought of Gajeel as trash unless they needed him for some unsavory deed. It was probably why he could commit such crimes back then without remorse. He glanced away from Levy's soft gaze, knowing it was her being that helped him realize these things about himself.

"I don't know if I deserve that title," He mumbled, gruffly pushing his hair back out of his face.

"Oh, is that so?" Her voice seemed lighter than normal, and Gajeel glanced up to see the smaller woman sighing loudly. She leaned back on her hands, looking up at the ceiling above her. "So does that mean you want me to ask someone else?"

"Excuse me?"

"Like Jet, or Droy? Are you saying you'd rather see me with them than with you?" She looked back down at him just in time to see his hands slam on either side of her hips. The desk shook with his force, Gajeel growling at her innocent look. He knew she had a grasp of what she was doing, Levy was no idiot. She probably knew how to get his blood boiling better than Natsu. But he couldn't stop his jealousy from moving his mouth.

"Nobody else can have you but me, you got that?"

"Then let me give myself to you already!" She replied, angry at the see-saw Gajeel was putting them through. The man glared at her puffed cheeks, pushing forward so their foreheads touched. Levy's little curves pressed into him like a soft caress, fueling every male hormone in his body. Gajeel knew from a very young age that his body was created to please women. He had his fair share, many of them with more prominent assets than the woman underneath him. Some had been models, others just blessed with sexy curves. Never once had Gajeel thought a tiny frame was the way to go. So why was it that just feeling her small breasts pressing against him had his body shivering with desire? He swallowed a groan that threatened to come out when she shifted her hips, pressing her warm crevice into his hardness. He could only hope his next sentence showed his irritation and not his desire to indulge in some sinful activity.

"What, you expect me to just take you right here on this desk? Is that what you want, shrimp?" From the way her cheeks darkened and her eyes dilated, Gajeel knew his prayers were not answered. His voice was husky with need, his fingers skimming the bare skin of her belly between her bunched shirt and low-riding capris. She gasped and he scowled at how intensely that sound affected his body. It didn't stop his mischievous fingers from delving further down, slipping the tips just under the elastic band on her underwear.

"Juvia's ou-outside," She whimpered, Levy laying back completely on the desk and gripping the edge with a white knuckle grip. Gajeel shrugged at her comment, pushing his luck by circling the button of her pants with two fingers. Emotional stuff was hard for Gajeel while Levy seemed to excel. But here, in the land of sexual pleasure, was where the Taurus reigned supreme.

"If you moan loud enough, I'm sure she'll get the hint. That Juvia ain't no dummy like the rest of the idiots you hang out with." He grinned when popping the button of her pants open, taking his time to skim the new skin exposed to his touch. She squirmed on the desk while her toes curled around his waist in pleasure. "So what's it gonna be, Levy? You really going to let yourself be owned by someone like me? I doubt this is exactly where you planned on our first time being. And I can't exactly say this will be the last time I take you here. I'm not what you'd call shy when it comes to locations of sex. It's part of the whole messed up Gajeel package."

She glanced up at the man leaning above her, face flushed and chest heaving. She shivered when his fingers started to slide down her zipper, Levy closing her eyes before nodding slowly.

"All I need is you, Gajeel." As a sign for him to continue, Levy lifted her hips up so he could slide her pants and underwear off of her body. Goose bumps covered her skin from the crisp air of the summer night, but Levy relaxed when his warm hands returned to stroke her thighs. His fingers felt rough, yet pleasurable as they stroked the sensitive skin of her inner thighs. It wasn't hard for him to return between her legs, Levy complying with every adjustment he made to her body. She peeked an eye open at him, blushing when seeing Gajeel casually pull the black shirt over his head. His body was amazing even with the scars from his past permanently marring his skin. She reached up slowly, placing her hand against his stomach and sliding it. She paused when she reached his chest, amazed at the fast heartbeat that greeted her palm. Even though the fast rhythm matched her own frantic beat, Gajeel seemed calm as he tugged his pants to his thighs.

"Guess it's a good thing I forgot underwear this morning." At his sentence Levy nearly fainted, the sexiness of the dark man overwhelming her. Never before had she been with someone who would dare to go out without matching socks, never mind commando! The fact that Gajeel was so comfortable in this state both eased and excited Levy.

Her relationships before coming to Fairy Tail had been lacking in value. She didn't go as far as to say they were pointless; each of her exes made her realize what she didn't want in a man. Sex was a game to Levy, and she enjoyed the spontaneity of it. She had respect for herself, but she always found a little creativity in her sex life made it feel twice as good. It was probably why the cold bite of the desk on her bottom was making her more aroused. She was wild and free at her best, and uncontrollable at her worst. She had always needed someone who would roll with the punches and adapt to whatever her Gemini mind chose to do that day.

That may have been what first attracted Levy to the man who had caused her so much pain in the first place. Gajeel reminded her of a wild horse. He would never be tamed, no matter how friendly he got with her. If he wanted something, no matter the place or time, Gajeel took it. People could judge the man all they wanted, but Gajeel cared more about what his cat thought than the rest of the world. It made her wonder if his wild abandonment to society norms would follow suit in the bed as well. Would her wildest dreams be pale comparisons to Gajeel's sex? Or would he choke in the spotlight and leave her wanting more?

"I'd ask if you're sure, but I really am way too far past the point to stop now." Even as he said it, Gajeel hesitated at her entrance. It was like he was almost waiting for Levy to suddenly snap out of her lustful daze and push him away from her. Instead, the bookworm slinked on hand into his hair and pulled him down into a soft kiss. She didn't deepen it or make it anything more than it needed. It was a sharp contrast to their normal style, but the mechanic seemed just as adaptable in kissing as he was with sexual locations. The gentleness he used, even when tugging at her lower lip, showed that this wasn't just a hook up for the two of them.

Doing this meant that Levy was Gajeel's.

"O-Oh!" She cried out when his hands grabbed behind her shoulders, Gajeel pushing into Levy's body while sucking on her neck. The desk underneath jerked with Gajeel's motions, neither seeming to care as both clung to the other in desire and desperation. Her nails were relentless as she grasped his shoulders, instantly digging into the flesh when he started to move. To the taller man, it felt like a floodgate of vulnerability had opened up. Her need fueled his own, and her cries of pleasure were something he knew he'd never be able to get out of his head. His body shuddered with each clench of her thighs, Gajeel's heavy breath torturing the sensitive skin of her ear. Her hips ground into his in a frenzy, the feeling of pleasure making her part her legs wider for him. Nail marks were swelling on the backs of his shoulders, and he was sure that one of them broke skin. Still he didn't stop, burying his face while snapping his hips deeper into the warmth of Levy.

Is this what they call making love? The second the thought came to him, Gajeel gritted his teeth and pushed into her deeper. Right now was not the time to discover if he…loved Levy!

"Fuck, you…feel good around me," he mumbled, the dirty sentence making Levy gasp and clench her thighs tighter. The sudden reaction from her made Gajeel blink, then smirk. So he had nabbed a fan of dirty talk? Interested, Gajeel skimmed her ear with his lips and thrust their hips back onto the desk. "Though I'd love to see just what it'd feel like for you to give me a ride."

"W-What?" One of his large hands cupped her ass, yanking her off the desk and turning to sit on the edge. Her knees pressed into the hard wood as she blinked, arms draped over his shoulders from the movement. She tried to catch her breath, but lost it instantly when both of his hands now guided her body on top of him. She tossed her head back at the motion, and Gajeel mentally cursed for not thinking to take his bookworm's top off.

Next time I'll get her naked under me. Though she's quite talented above too. Wonder what she's like from behind…

Just thinking of it pushed him toward the edge, the jump getting much closer when Levy started to use her own legs to guide her hips. Gajeel clenched his teeth as he leaned back on his hands, watching Levy's body glide over him gracefully. Even doing something as sexy as taking control on his work desk, Levy's glance held nothing but genuine kindness and concern for his pleasure. He yanked one of his hands out to trail down her body, flicking his thumb against her clit each time she pushed her body up. He could tell by her shivering that she was close to the edge, and was in need of a verbal push.

"I wanna see you cum on top of me, shrimp."

"Ga-Gajeel!" A few talented stroked of his fingers sent her over the edge, Levy crying while she grasped onto his body. He grunted slightly when her body milked his orgasm from him, but otherwise kept his composure. That was not something he could say for his partner, who convulsed and panted with each tremor of her orgasm. He made sure to support her limp body when he stood, being careful to remove himself before sitting her back onto the desk. He stroked her hair while she tried to catch her breath, tossing her crumpled clothing once he was sure she could hold her own weight again. She glanced down at her own clothes, a flush spreading across her cheeks while quickly re-assembling her outfit. Gajeel followed suit, though was in much less of a hurry to cover his naked body. He turned away from her as he yanked down his shirt, glancing at the fading sun. By now, it lent almost no light to the skyline.

"So, are you regretting it yet?" Levy looked toward him, her feet nervously swinging as she shook her head.

"No, I don't. The question is, do you?" His head tilted toward the sky at her question, making Levy bite her lower lip. Was it bad for him? As it was, Levy had yet to gain full mobility in her legs yet. She was sure that if she tried to get off the desk, her legs wouldn't support her. Gajeel was anything but disappointing when it came to sex. It was the first time in a while that Levy felt completely content after. But that didn't mean Gajeel felt the same way. If after all of this, Gajeel still couldn't see the reasons he had to stay, then she would never be able to convince him. Her insecurity caused her to speak again. "If you still want to go—"

"No." Her eyes widened when he turned back toward her, the small smirk on his face almost passing for a real smile.

"No what?" She whispered softly, her eyes closing when he closed the gap and roughly kissed her on the forehead. Despite his gruff response, Levy smiled at his answer and the warmth of his arms around her.

"I'm not going anywhere. You owe me breakfast, remember?"

Well…nothing like some intense GaLe love to make you warm and fuzzy on the inside. And with all of the couples starting to sew their relationships together, I wonder how the next few chapters will turn out. What will come of Mira, Laxus, and the other couples? What becomes of Lucy's job with the couples pairing up? What happens when Lucy's father comes back to Fairy Tail? And will Lucy and Natsu be able to make it past one last surprise? Stay tune and find out!

Chapter 14: The Hidden Book, the Secret Message