Hello everyone. So here we are. I can't believe I actually made it to the end like I was hoping for. Thank you all for sticking with me through it all and for showing your support! I love and appreciate all of you and hope that you will continue to read my future stories both here and on other sites. So I'm sure all of you are anxious after the way I ended the last chapter so I won't ramble too much, but I want to put one more shameless plug and ask that those that are fans of anime check out my story on Wattpad or fictionpress 'Strawberry Lessons'. Mostly because I need some feedback on it since it's a different style than I usually write and is more modern. Anyways, back to this. I hope you all like the finale and it makes everything that came before worth it. As always please enjoy and let me know what you thought by leaving a review.

*All characters are owned by Sempai Hiro Mashima*

Lucy had her head resting on her folded arms at her desk. The tears had finally dried up and Loke had reluctantly left her alone.

'I'm sorry Lucy...but no matter the reason, even strange hormones...Natsu shouldn't have hurt you like that…'

He was right of course and Lucy knew that. But her heart still ached for him. Despite what he had done...her hand went up to the bandage covering the side of her neck and pressed lightly against the wound. Even though he had hurt her, she still loved him. He was still Natsu and the heartbreak she had seen in his eyes softened her towards him. She wasn't entirely sure that it was all his fault. Gajeel had said that Natsu would react violently without realizing it, but she had naively believed that she knew better. What was the point of going to someone for advice if you didn't heed it?

Now she wasn't sure what to do. It was worse than the last time they had parted. This time they were both carrying a weight in their hearts. Natsu had hurt her deeply and she had done the same to him. The fact that one cut had been physical and the other emotional didn't make either less harmful. How were they going to get past this one? Did she even want to try? Did Natsu?

She groaned again and buried her head under her arms as her red eyes burned once more. Her heart had never felt so constricted or conflicted on what it wanted. Although she loved Natsu more than anything, she wasn't sure they were meant to be together after all. She glanced down at the stack of papers on her desk. It had all started with this. How eerie that the story was more accurate than she thought. In the end Natsu and Lucy had been forced to part because…

"We were never meant to have a 'happily ever after'." She whispered as pain swept through her. A scratching at her window made her jump and she swung around.

"Natsu?" She asked, hope laced in her voice despite how she was feeling before. But her heart plummeted once more as a familiar blue feline waved at her. She got up and went to the window, sliding it open for Happy. He looked up at her with his innocently large eyes and it made her want to cry all over again for some reason.

"Hi Lucy." Happy said and she forced a smile for the cat.

"Hey Happy. What are you doing here?" She asked, clearing her throat as her voice cracked. She hoped Happy wouldn't notice and thankfully he didn't comment. He looked up at her and held up a paw.

"Levy asked me to come pick up your new story and deliver it to her." He said brightly and another stab pierced her heart. Lucy wished she had never written that story...Maybe then her and Natsu could still be living in their oblivious bubble together. She didn't show any outward signs of her distressing thoughts though and went to the story. She stared at it for a few minutes and then decided to send it as it was. She wouldn't rewrite a happy ending. Happy endings were for people who worked for it…

She tied it with some twine so Happy could carry it easier and even gave him a fish for being so helpful. He munched on it excitedly as she finished tying up the story. She felt his curious gaze on her and looked over to see the cat watching her with a worried expression.

"Happy? You okay?" She whispered and Happy's ears drooped, but he gave her a sad smile. She frowned at this, wondering what was bothering the cat. She carried the story over to him and sat it on the windowsill next to him and gave him a better smile than the first one.

"Here you go. I'll see you tomorrow at the guild okay?" She said, hoping to cheer him up from whatever was bothering him. Happy surprised her when his eyes welled up with sudden tears and he leapt at her, burying his face in her chest as he hugged her. It was almost like the time they had followed her to her mansion when they thought she was leaving.

"Happy wha-"

"Lushie~" He whined and Lucy frowned as she held the little cat against her. He looked up at her with his large eyes and her heart melted with his next words.

"You know that even though I tease you a lot I love you Lushie...You're as much my family as Natsu is...I don't want either of you to be sad…" He whispered and Lucy felt tears fill her own eyes. She hugged the cat tightly before setting him on the windowsill again. She rubbed his head and in a soft voice comforted him.

"It'll be okay Happy. I know that right now it seems confusing. But you can't break up Team Natsu right?" She asked and his ears dropped further as he grabbed the story and whispered,

"Yeah...right…" He cast one wide-eyed look at her and held up the Fairy Tail symbol with his tiny fingers.

"I'll see ya later Lushie." He said before flying off to make his delivery. He didn't see Lucy return the symbol before closing her window and collapsing on her bed. She burrowed under her blankets, but couldn't fall asleep. No matter how tired she was from everything that had happened, her body couldn't relax. Her bed didn't feel the same, it was too cold and there was something missing. No...not something, someone. She needed Natsu beside her to sleep now. Even before they were together, he was always sleeping next to her.

"Natsu…" She cried a fresh wave of tears that stained her pillow as she spent a restless night thinking about the dragon slayer.

Lucy shuffled into the guild feeling absolutely empty and exhausted. She had barely slept, being woken up by constant nightmares. She had used makeup to cover the dark circles under her eyes so no one would notice right away. The bandage had also been removed since her wound had stopped bleeding. She wore a scarf around her neck to hide the mark, not wanting to cover it with makeup ever again. She gazed around, not too surprised when she didn't see him. She sighed and started to head to the bar when she heard her name being called excitedly. She turned around and saw her friends sitting at the same table with that cursed stack in front of them.

Still she put a smile on her face and walked over, ready to take her punishment. After all, she hadn't met all the requirements. As she got closer she noticed each woman's expression. Levy and Erza were wiping tears from their eyes while Cana was grinning like a maniac. Mira was sitting beside Cana with a satisfied smile on her face as she looked up at Lucy. It wasn't the reaction Lucy had expected with the sad ending, but maybe they liked it more? It seemed like a stretch with how these women were with romance, but who knows.

"Oh Lu-chan! This was amazing! Your best work yet." Levy praised and Lucy gave her a soft smile as she slid in next to Erza at the end. She sighed after a while and looked at Cana.

"So...When do I have to start wearing that bunny suit?" She asked and all sets of eyes turned to her surprised. She looked between them and didn't understand why they were looking at her like she had lost her mind.

"Why would you have to wear it? You finished the bet?" Mira asked with a tilt to her head and Lucy blinked as she frowned further. She pointed to the story and stuttered,

"But the story...I didn't meet all the requirements." She asked confused and Cana laughed, waving her hand.

"If you were worried about my request then don't. Trust me when I say you satisfied me with that steam. I have to say I'm proud of you. I knew you were a closet perv!" She laughed and Lucy looked at the others, still confused. Erza patted Lucy on the back and smiled.

"The fight scene was perfectly done as well. So you filled my request like a true member of Fairy Tail." She praised, but Lucy shook her head and stood up suddenly, placing her hand over the story as she looked at Levy.

"But the ending-"

"Was the most beautiful thing I've read in a long time! The love confession at the end brought us all to tears, even Cana." Levy said and Cana blushed as she denied it. But Lucy was no longer listening to their banter as her eyes fell to the story under her hand.

"Love confession?" She whispered as she slid it to her, sitting in her seat once more. She picked it up and flipped to the last chapter she had written and began to scan it. Her actions were noticed by Levy as she looked at the line between her friend's brow.

"Lu? What's wrong." She asked before Lucy gasped and leapt up once more. The pages shaking in her fingers as her eyes filled with tears. But these were different than the ones from last night.

Lucy shifted in the bed and Natsu instantly came to her side, praying that she would finally wake up. It had been a week since the battle they had fought and Lucy had used up more magic than the rest of them. Between driving the soldiers off and bringing him back from death, she had almost killed herself in the process. He placed his hand over hers and gave it a gentle squeeze.

"Lucy...Come back to me…"

"I still can't reach her in the dream realm we share. If her chest wasn't filling with air I would swear she was...but Lucy is strong. She saved us after all." The dragon said and Natsu nodded, sighing as he moved away from her side once more. Yes she had saved him, but at what price?

"We have to tell her when she wakes. It's not something we can hide." The dragon whispered sadly and Natsu's fists clenched. He knew that it was the only way to keep her safe and had to be done. But he didn't want it to be this way. He turned and looked at her sleeping peacefully in their bed and wished that he had been able to protect her better. After everything they had faced together, this wasn't right. They had fought for each other and yet it still hadn't been enough.

He had already told the others his decision and they hadn't been happy either, but with the help of Gajeel and Levy they had finally come to terms with the reality he now lived in. He had made the decision and would face the consequences alone. He wouldn't hurt anyone else.

"Natsu…" Her soft voice pierced through his dark thoughts and brought him back. Just like the light she was, she pulled him from the void and breathed life into him once more. He moved to her side and wanted to shout with joy as he watched her eyelids slowly lift so he could gaze at those beautiful eyes again. He crouched on the bed and placed his hand on her cheek.

"Welcome back my love. You had all of us so worried." He whispered and her eyes finally focused on him. As she took in his gentle smile her eyes filled with sudden tears and she leapt up, wrapping her arms around his neck. She buried her head against his chest as she cried and Natsu's arms went around her instantly returning her desperate grasp. He cupped the back of her head and felt his own eyes sting as he held her once more.

"I thought I'd lost you…" She whispered against him and his grip tightened as he reassured himself that she was really in his arms.

"That's what I'm supposed to say…" He whispered and she pressed further into him. He allowed himself this selfish moment. Just holding her like this. Like there wasn't more for them to face after they left this chamber. He needed to be selfish this once. He pried her off him so that he could cup her face, his fingers buried in her golden hair as he kissed her deeply. She moaned softly and returned the kiss, her own fingers sliding into his hair. He groaned as he tasted her completely, never wanting to forget her sweet essence.

"Lucy…" He rasped as he pulled away just long enough to take in a breath of air before returning to her lips once more. She was responding without any signs of hesitations. Even after what she had seen. After what he had done, she still clung to him and responded to his touch with the same passionate fire. He groaned again and pushed back until she was lying down once more and his body was pressed against hers. His tongue slipped inside her mouth and she let out another soft moan as he swirled it around hers.

A soft knock was what forced him to pull back and sit up, away from her as the door slowly opened. Mira came in, carrying the tray with Lucy's medicine. When she saw the blonde was awake though she let the thing crash to the ground and ran across the room so that she could envelope the woman in a tight hug.

"Lucy! Oh thank the gods you're okay! We were all so afraid that you…" She cried as she practically suffocated the poor girl. Natsu felt his heart tighten as he looked at the two women that meant so much in his life. One that had raised him and become the mother he never thought he'd have. The other being the most beautiful woman he had ever seen, with a heart of pure light that filled his with so much love it hurt. After tonight...he would lose them both. He quietly got off the bed and left the room without either noticing. There were still things that had to be done before he ripped his heart out.

Lucy smiled at her family as they all crowded into her chambers, wanting to make sure she was feeling alright. Her father and Makarov were also there, neither being happy after hearing what she had done. She had been scolded by all those older than her, but she had also been praised for her bravery. She felt her heart lift as she knew that now, things could finally return to normal. And that no matter what they decided to do, she would have Natsu by her side.

Her eyes moved over to him, still worried that he was keeping such a distance. He was leaning against the far wall and was staring at the ground instead of her. She hoped he wasn't blaming himself for anything and as soon as they were left alone she intended to reassure him.

"Lucy." She turned as her father got her attention. He was looking at her seriously and she felt a small amount of dread at what he was about to say. He glanced over at Natsu and she was surprised to see him nod back at the older man. Jude then cleared his throat.

"Lucy...we didn't want to spring this on you right after waking, but time is important right now. We need to finish preparations to leave the castle." He whispered quietly and everyone shared his solemn look. Lucy's eyes widened as she looked at each person before they fell on the man standing off to the side, but he wasn't looking at her.

"What do you mean? We're...we're really leaving?" She asked and Mira stepped forward, sitting on the edge of the bed and grasped Lucy's hand.

"Lucy dear. You were out for so long that we had to come to a decision without you. I'm sorry, but we had no choice. The danger here has increased. Gray, Gajeel and Natsu have found more and more soldiers combing the forest. It seems that they won't give up now that they know where we are. We have to leave while we can." She said and Lucy sighed as she lowered her head.

"I'm sorry everyone. This is my fault...If I hadn't let those others go we wouldn't-"

"No one is blaming you girlie. We knew that this could happen one day. It's all just some bad luck." Gajeel mumbled, but his eyes shifted to Natsu and she caught it along with the pity in his gaze. She looked up at Natsu who was still avoiding her direct look.

"Natsu…" She whispered and he flinched. She saw the way his fingers were digging into his sleeves and she knew how painful it must be for him. This was his home and it wouldn't be easy for him to say goodbye to it.

"Natsu...Are you sure you can leave?" She asked and noticed how everyone grimaced and subtly stepped away from her as they glanced at him. Mira's hand tightened against hers as she sadly looked down at the comforter. What were they all thinking? Her eyes went back to Natsu and saw that he had turned them to her for the first time and the pain in them caused her own heart to ache. But his next words cut her even deeper.

"I'm not leaving…"

"W-What? What do you mean you're not leaving? Then neither am I!" She cried and her father reached out for her.

"Lucy listen…"

"No…" Natsu cut him off and walked to the end of the bed, staring down at her. His voice was raspy and shaking as he whispered,

"I'll tell her. Leave us."

His quiet words cleared the room as they all cast glances at the pair before the door was closed behind them. Natsu stayed in his spot as he looked down at her. He sighed and turned his profile on her.

"Lucy...I can't go with you…" He whispered and she threw off the covers and stood so that she could go to him. He stepped back though before she reached him and she frowned.

"Why not Natsu? Because this castle is the last thing you have of your father's?" She asked and he snorted.

"That man means nothing compared to you. Lucy…" He turned to her and clenched his fists to resist reaching for her.

"I can't go with you because I'm still dangerous." He admitted and she frowned in confusion. He sighed and stepped further away from her, turning his back to her.

"I don't expect you to accept it, but the truth is that I broke an important rule among my kind. We don't merge with our dragons because we can't control it. You saw what I did at the camp. I even attacked my friends in my blind rage…"

"But you were just trying to protect me. You would never do that again and not knowingly." She begged and took a step towards him, but he kept his back to her still.

"But the wall has been torn down and now...it can't be put back up…" He whispered and she clenched her hands over her chest as she heard the fear in his voice.

"Natsu…"

"Lucy...I can turn into that monster again at any given moment...neither me nor my dragon will be able to stop the merging now. And it's said that it only gets worse. I won't be able to control myself in that state and I'll just be endangering everyone around me…" He glanced at her over his shoulder and she saw the tears in his eyes. He turned the rest of the way, facing her as he held his hands out.

"I could wind up killing you next time…" He choked as the tears clogged his throat. Lucy gasped, but ran to him before he could stop her and wrapped her arms around his waist. He pushed against her shoulders, but she held tight.

"But I can't leave you…" She sobbed and the hands that had been pushing began to pull as he wrapped her in his arms even tighter than when she had woken up. He was trembling as he held her and she was crying desperately as she denied his words.

"Natsu please…" She begged and he sobbed as he shifted so that he could bury his face against her neck.

"Lucy...I don't want to lose you...but this is the only way to keep you safe. I can't risk the government finding you if you stay here. And I'm a lit fuse right now...who knows the next time I'll go off...I love you Lucy...I love you so much…" He whispered as he molded her against him. She was fully sobbing now, unable to speak through her misery.

"I don't want to say goodbye...but if it means that you will be safe then I can be happy. I want you to promise me that you will continue to live…" He pulled back and cupped her cheeks, wiping her tears with his thumbs as his own continued to flow down his cheeks.

"I want you to continue smiling...Even if we are miles apart...I'll feel that smile in my heart...As long as I know you are safe and that you love me...nothing else matters…" He whispered and kissed her. This one was filled with longing and pain as well as his eternal love for her. Lucy felt her heart breaking as their tears coated their lips and the sweet kiss also held a trace of bitterness. He pulled away from her lips and pulled her against him again.

"Lucy…" He whispered as his fingers combed through her hair.

"This will be our last night together...please...Let me love you…" He begged and through a choked sob she could only nod. He picked her up and carried her to their bed. Their lovemaking was rough and desperate, but still passionate and their love transferred through their bodies. He embraced her and pressed his forehead to hers as his body moved along hers.

"I love you Lucy...I'll always love you no matter what happens…"

"Natsu...I don't want to go...not if it means leaving you." She cried and he kissed her deeply. When he pulled back his eyes were misting once more.

"And I don't want to let you go...but I have to. Please love...don't…" His voice broke and he leaned forward, pressing his mouth against her neck, kissing her mark.

"Don't make this harder than it already is." He begged, and she cried as her arms wrapped around him, her nails digging into his back in an attempt to hold onto him.

They both lay on their sides, facing each other. One of his hands held hers between them as they silently stared into the other's eyes. Neither wanted to fall asleep first because that would mean losing precious seconds seeing their love's face.

Natsu's hand came up and stroked her cheek, wiping away the remaining tears that lingered at the corner of her eye. His hand fell to her waist and pulled her closer to him, still looking down into her eyes. There was so much he still wanted to say, but if he did then she would never agree to leave. As hard as it was and as painful, he needed her to go with the others. He couldn't guarantee her safety like before. And he wouldn't chance her getting hurt because he was selfish and careless.

"Sleep love…" He whispered when he saw her resisting it as her lids started to droop. He would remain awake all night so that he could memorize every detail of her beautiful face. She weakly shook her head, but he knew she was losing the battle. Her soft snoring soon filled his ears and he felt his chest tighten as pain tore through him, leaving him open and vulnerable. As he held her in his arms for the last time, he thought back to what he thought were his final moments. Looking up at her as she cried out his name. He had meant what he said then and as he watched her sleep he said them to her again.

"I'm glad I met you Lucy...I found my light the minute you stumbled into my arms. I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you...but I'm at least happy that I could share this love with you for the time we had...But now I need you to go...I'll rip out my own heart in exchange for your safety and happiness...It's cruel to force you to go and I know that…" He whispered and stroked her hair as she slept snuggled in his arms and against his heart. He would hold her there forever because there would never be anyone else. She was his mate for life. Never would another move him or fill his heart with love. It would always belong to her...even if one day she forgets him and finds another…

He gritted his teeth as the thought deeply hurt him. He hated to admit it, but it was part of the reason he had spoken to Gray away from the others. He had made the man promise that he would care for Lucy in his place. This wasn't like when he had asked the man to protect her while he went off to fight. Natsu had just asked him to be a stand-in husband should she need someone to be there for her. Gray had understood the difference and reluctantly agreed after hours of argument.

As the first rays of morning came Natsu slipped out of bed and dressed. He had to leave before everyone rose. They would all be leaving and he had informed them prior that he would not be around to see them off. No one had argued as they shed their tears then. He couldn't watch the family he had come to love walk away from him again. So once he was ready he turned and stared down at his heart. She still slept, not having realized that his warmth had left her. He needed one more taste though.

He moved back to her and leaned over to press a soft kiss to her lips. Then as he brushed back the hair on her cheek he made a promise that he probably couldn't keep.

"I'll always love you Lucy. One day...I'll find a way to control this new power. And when I do I'll come for you again. We'll see each other again...We'll be together my love." The words were nothing but false hope. It was why he hadn't said them to her when he joined his body with hers. He didn't want to fill her with the same crushing disappointment he had felt waiting for a shadow to return. He wanted her to live her life without feeling any obligations to wait for him. He knew the darkness that created and the resentment. He never wanted his angel to look at him with any trace of hate. He prayed that she would hold him fondly in her heart always. He wouldn't ask her to wait for him to do the impossible and give her a unkeepable promise. He wouldn't become his father...He moved to the door and as he cast one final glance at her, two hearts broke as they said their final farewell.

"I love you Lucy."

She had never felt so hollow as she rode in front of Gray. He had stuck close to her side since they woke up to discover Natsu had disappeared. She had cried when she realized that he had left because it was too painful to see her off. She had continued to cry as Gray lifted her into the saddle and joined her and through the long trek through the forest. Now she was limp and resting against his cold chest. Once more wishing that it was the warm chest she longed for.

No one spoke as they traveled. Gajeel, her father and Makarov were walking as Erza and Wendy rode her horse. Mira and Levy rode on the horse that once carried Natsu and she had to keep her eyes off the pair in order to not just break down again. But her mind kept flashing to different moments of her life with him. How long would it take for her heart to feel whole again? Probably forever...she would never forget him or the love she felt. She was determined to be alone until her last day, because Natsu was the only man she wanted to share a home with.

She closed her eyes and wished that all of this was just a bad dream. That at any moment she would be returned to his arms and that all of the chaos had been her imagination. But the real world wasn't like the fictional one. There was no erasing the words this time...They were parting and it would be permanent. She hiccupped as tears streamed down her cheeks once more. She would have thought she had none left, but it seemed that she would never run out when it came to her misery and lost love. A strong arm wrapped around her and squeezed in a quiet hug. He didn't say anything, but was still offering his support in her suffering. She turned her face and buried it into his chest to hide her heartbreak from the others. But even without seeing her cry, they knew that she was being torn apart by this.

It was three days until they reached the port town that her father and Makarov had traveled from. Lucy felt so empty and alone, even as she was surrounded by those closest to her. They were offering her the support they thought she needed, but they weren't what she wanted. Natsu was the only one that could wipe away this hollowness and fill her lungs with life once more. Now, as she stood on the deck of the ship that would carry them to their new home she looked out at the town. She watched the road they had come from, hoping that she would see him.

It was a foolish hope that she still carried in her heart, but she was sending every prayer that she knew that he would come for her in the end. That he would tell her that despite all the reasons they shouldn't be, he wanted to be with her. That they could still have the life together that had been possible only days before. She stood in that one spot even as she heard the crew calling to one another as the ship was turned to the open ocean and slowly began to pull away. She held that small trace of hope until the bitter end...but it was all in vain. The town grew smaller and eventually all she was staring at was the open ocean.

"Lucy…I double checked and he sent us with enough jewels and gold to buy a plot of land when we arrive...I'm used to the physical part so we can probably make a decent farm... " Gray whispered, trying to get her mind off of leaving Natsu behind.

She didn't turn at his quiet voice, feeling herself slip away as darkness crept in. But it seemed that he wouldn't give up easily. His hand fell on her shoulder and forced her to turn to look at him. Gray held her shoulders in a firm grip as he looked at her fiercely. His eyes held a hint of the sorrow she felt, but there was also worry mixed in.

"It'll be alright...It might now seem like it right now, but no matter what happens or where you go...I'll be by your side. I'm here for you." He whispered and she fell against his chest, feeling her strength drain from her as her arms went around his waist. He held her as she sobbed, comforting her the best he could. When she settled down some, he pulled back and wiped away the remaining tears as he reached into his coat.

"It's not much...but I found it with the help of Mira...we both think you should have it." He whispered, holding up her hand and placing his closed fist on her palm as he held her eyes.

"He'll always love you, you know." He whispered as the cool item in his hand slid into her palm and he pulled his hand away, revealing a locket. She held it with extreme care and opened it with trembling fingers. She choked back a sob as the familiar smile looked back at her and that head of spiky pink locks made her remember how it felt to touch them.

"It was from a long time ago and I wish I had something with him now...but the only painting he had ever allowed Mira to make is the one hanging in the North Wing…but I figured you should have something to help you remember him." Gray explained, feeling guilty that he couldn't do more. She gave him a weak smile and clutched the locket to her heart.

"Thank you Gray...but…" She turned away from him and stared up at the clear sky and an image of him smiling at her with that loving look appeared before her.

'I'll always love you Lucy...We'll see each other again…' She wasn't sure if she had only dreamed the words or if he had spoken them. All she knew was that she would do as he had asked and live for them. She would one day smile and send all her love across the sea to wherever he was.

"I'll always remember him. I'll always love only Natsu."

That...that was where she had written 'the end'. But it had been scratched over and more followed after. But as Lucy read it, she knew she hadn't been the one to write the new ending.

Gray walked through the small town near their new home. It had been a little over a year since they had sailed to Fiore and started their new lives. He nodded at the townspeople who recognized him. He often came into town to buy supplies or anything else Lucy said they needed. He sighed as he thought of his friend. She was getting better, but he still worried that her heart wasn't healed enough to let her live fully. But he was there for her, no matter what she needed.

He was the last one by her side after the year. One by one, each of their family members had moved on to new adventures. Levy and Gajeel finally became a mated pair and married three months after they had arrived. Gajeel had waited long enough for the small farm Gray and Lucy lived in to be built. Then the two had left with enough money; a wedding present from Lucy, to buy a bit of land for themselves.

He remembered listening to Lucy cry herself to sleep that night with Mira as the two knew that she was thinking of her own fiance that she would never get to celebrate with. The next to leave were Erza and Wendy who wanted to explore the new land and see what lay out there. Lucy had told Gray to join them, knowing that he felt the same itch, but he had refused. He had promised to stay by her side and that was where he would remain.

Then, the last and hardest to say goodbye to, Mira. She had been instantly popular upon their arrival with her unique beauty. Many courted the woman in hopes of winning her hand. And one persistent individual had succeeded. A large brute of a man with blonde hair and scars from his work at the docks. Gray still didn't understand how someone so delicate as Mira would choose someone so rough for a husband, but the two did well together. He still saw Mira in town and she would occasionally visit and she always seemed happy.

Now it was just the two of them. Although he knew that he couldn't actually replace Natsu, Gray was hoping that he could at least act as her protector so long as she needed him. She was smiling more now and not forced smiles, but genuine ones that made him relax. Lucy was still only half the person she was a year ago, but with time she may be able to move on. And if she ever asked it of him, he would fill in the void left behind. He couldn't deny that he still felt something for the woman, whether it was the affection of a friend or more didn't matter. He would be whatever she asked of him, just as he had promised...to the brother he had left behind.

He collected the last of the items he had been sent for and tied the sack to the saddle of his horse and was about to lift himself up when a rough voice carried across the wind to him.

"I'm looking for a Lucy Heartfillia. Pretty blonde that came through the area some time ago. Sound familiar?"

Gray stiffened as he tuned in his ears and subtly glanced over his shoulder as he pretended to check the cinch on his saddle. He saw a tall, cloaked figure talking to one of the stall vendors. He couldn't see the man's face, but he was taller than most of the townspeople and built like a soldier. Gray gritted his teeth and wondered if he could possibly be one of those assassins he had heard about.

Shortly after settling in the area, he and Gajeel had been walking through town when they overheard a conversation about their homeland sending assassins after mages that they still feared. Since their group had traveled with three rare mages they had been on the lookout ever since, but keeping the information from the others.

"Sorry pal. No Lucy Heartfillia...Although…"

'Shit." Gray cursed internally as the vendor continued.

"There is a young woman that lives outside of town. Her name's Lucy Ashley. She's blonde too, but I do know if she could be the girl you're looking for?"

Gray waited as the man quietly thanked him and asked for a general direction of their home. Then he slowly began to follow the man, waiting for a chance to take him out. The only one's who knew any of their real last names were them, so the fact that this man knew Lucy's was alarming. The stranger slipped down a narrow alley and Gray peeked around the corner, but frowned when he saw a dead end, yet couldn't see the man.

He slowly walked down the narrowed space, keeping alert as he scanned the area. He turned and blocked the punch just in time. The man didn't even bother saying a word as he continued to come at Gray. Which suited the ice man just as well. But this assassin was stronger than anyone Gray had faced before and it was becoming apparent that he wouldn't win in a battle of brute strength. So he jumped back and sent a quick blast of his magic at the man with a smirk. His face fell when the ice evaporated instantly and the man passed through the steam with unnatural speed.

He caught Gray around his throat and slammed him into a wall lining the alley. Gray gasped and tried to pry the man off, even using his full power. But as before his magic evaporated and Gray realized the man was heating his own body to counter Gray's attacks. He looked up but still couldn't see the man's face as it was hidden in the cloak's shadows. The large man pulled back his fist and hissed,

"You picked the wrong man to try and steal from. Now I'm going to teach you a lesson." His fists lit on fire after his words and Gray's eyes widened at the familiarity of the flames. There was only one man he knew whose magic looked like that. As the flaming fist flew towards him he shouted at his friend.

"Natsu! It's me you moron!" The fist stopped inches from his face before the flames extinguished. But the hand holding him captive didn't release him and Gray wondered if the dragon had taken over again like that battle. He looked up as the man grabbed his hood and threw it back. He glared down at Gray with his onyx eyes and in a deadly-low voice whispered,

"How do you know that name?"

Lucy hummed softly as she cleaned the floors of their humble home while dinner sat warming over the fire in the hearth. The farm was simple, but Lucy loved it still because it was a new home for all of them, even if for a short while. It provided them with enough food and a safe place away from others. She wasn't ready to be around people yet, which is why Gray was always the one to go into town in her stead. She was so thankful that he was still by her side and offering her the support she needed. Some days were better than others and she tried to put on a brave front for him, but knew that he could see through her smiles. Positive that he still heard her cry late at night as her heart secretly yearned for what it could no longer have.

She sighed as the familiar pain settled deep in her chest. Thoughts of him would creep in randomly and she would have to fight the tears until she was alone. Even after a year the pain hadn't numbed even a little. The only thing that had changed was her acceptance. The first few months had been the worst.

Lucy would stand out in front of their home and just stare towards the town, hoping to see him coming for her. That hope had only caused her more hurt, but she had refused to let go of it even though she knew it was pointless. Now...now she had come to terms with the reality of things. That this was her life now and that no amount of wishing would change the way things were. She couldn't complain about much because she wasn't completely alone, but Gray wasn't Natsu.

Although she loved him and having him with her kept the loneliness from swallowing her whole, he wasn't everything she needed. It was selfish and made her feel guilty considering all he had sacrificed for her. This land had offered everyone a second chance and an open adventure for anyone that took it. But she knew that the only reason Gray hadn't left was because he felt obligated to stay with her. So to show her gratitude, she kept her dark feelings buried as deeply as she could and smiled for him every chance she got.

The sound of a horse quickly approaching the farm alerted her to his return. She smiled softly and leaned the broom against the wall as she went to the pot and lifted the lid, stirring the thick stew, preparing to serve it. She heard his footfalls as he came into their home.

"Welcome home. Dinner's ready, but I hope you're okay with just vegetables tonight. There wasn't enough rabbit left." She said as she turned and walked over to the cabinet that held the bowls, wondering why Gray was being so silent.

"Lucy…"

The loud crash of the dishes shattering on the floor rang through the small home. Lucy's eyes were wide and her heart had just stopped. No. No it had to be a trick. Her mind was finally cracking and now she was torturing herself. There was no way she just heard…

"Lucy...look at me love." He begged and she covered her mouth as she slowly turned around and the tears she was fighting slipped out as her vision was filled with the most beautiful sight. Standing in her doorway, dressed in a long cloak and breathing heavily was the man that still haunted her dreams.

"N-Natsu…" She whispered and that was all the prompting he needed to sweep into the room and envelope her in his warm embrace. His lips claimed hers in a fiery kiss that stole her breath away. Her arms wrapped around his neck as she clung to him just as tightly, needing to assure herself that this wasn't some phantom but the real thing. He pulled away, but only long enough to whisper,

"Lucy love...I missed you so much." Before his lips were pressed against hers again. She moaned and pressed herself further against him as the kiss quickly deepened. Their shared pent-up passion threatening to consume them with its intensity. She didn't even think to question why he was there, she was too caught up in the feeling of his arms holding her once more. Which is why she never heard the sound of galloping hooves.

"Lucy! You have to-" Gray's shout died when they turned to look at him. Gray's eyes held the same shock hers probably had as he looked at Natsu standing there before him. Gray took a few steps before he stopped again and rasped,

"So it's true...Natsu…" He didn't say anything else, not knowing what to say. Natsu's lips slowly lifted up into a small smile as he pulled Lucy into his chest, cradling her head there.

"Thank you Gray...thank you for keeping your promise to me...Thank you for watching Lucy." He whispered and Gray's mouth fell open as he tried to process all this. Lucy's mind finally woke from the fog and she pulled back to look up at Natsu's face.

"But...Natsu...How…" She stammered, her voice thick with different emotions warring within her. Natsu's eyes fell back on her and he reached up to brush back her hair, cupping her cheek after.

"I'm sorry it took me so long...I didn't want to come until I was sure you would be safe around me." He whispered and her eyes widened further. Gray asked what she was thinking.

"So, you can control it now? The transformation?"

Natsu nodded, his eyes never leaving Lucy.

"Yes...it still happens, but I am in full control when it does." He said.

"But Natsu...how did you know where I was?" Lucy asked and Natsu smiled as he tilted her face up and leaned closer.

"Darling, I would follow you half-way across the world if I had to. As soon as I got on the outskirts of town I picked up your scent and followed you."

"Well that explains why you disappeared and didn't bother to wait." A new voice added, the irritation evident in the gruff voice. Lucy looked to the door as Gray stepped aside and a tall man came in. She gasped as the recognition hit her like a hard slap. Tall, powerfully built with fierce red hair and sinfully dark eyes. Although she had only seen him once and in a painting there was no doubt who this man was. She looked up at Natsu in shock and he gave her a small smile as he turned them to face the man, his arm still around her waist.

"Lucy, I'd like to formally introduce you to Igneel Dragneel, my father. Father, this is Lucy...my mate." He said and Igneel looked her up and down. For some reason his scrutiny made Lucy feel nervous, wondering how she was measuring in his eyes. But the man surprised her by breaking out into a wide smile and crossing his arms over his chest.

"Strong, beautiful and smart...why did you choose my son?"

"Hey!" Natsu growled as his hand tightened and Igneel laughed, waving his hand to ward off Natsu's annoyance. His dark eyes fixed on Lucy once more before he bowed to her.

"It is an honor and a pleasure to formally welcome you into our family. Please take care of Natsu. Gods know he needs constant watching."

"That's enough old man. I need to speak to Lucy." He said and Igneel nodded as he straightened and grabbed Gray by his arm, dragging him out with him. Lucy watched Gray struggle, but the older man was stronger so he was forced to follow, for which she was silently thankful. Once they were alone again Natsu pulled her over to a chair and gently pushed her into it. She looked up at him, wondering if this was some elaborate dream and her heart would break when she finally woke up.

"Is this real?" She asked and Natsu smiled softly as he nodded.

"Yes love...there's so much to tell you, but for now I'll tell you the important things. Like I said to Gray, I still transform. It happens when my power fluxes or I get too angry. But with months of severe training I can control it."

"But how...Gajeel said that it's never been done before." She said and Natsu sighed as he looked off to the side a strange and conflicted look in his eyes.

"It hasn't. As far as the records go I'm the first...but the only reason I can say that is because it was forced on me."

"Forced?" She asked and he knelt down before her, taking her hands in his as his eyes locked with hers, asking that she listen intently.

"Shortly after you left the transformations got worse and I destroyed half the castle. During one rampage I was attacked. By my father. I don't remember much except that he was able to somehow subdue me, even in that state. I woke up the next morning without much memory, so imagine my surprise when I see that man sitting by my bedside…

"After we...talked...he told me that it might be possible to control the new power I had. I scoffed at his words and told him I wouldn't believe his words so easily again. But he told me that if I truly loved you I would fight to be with you again as hard as I could...So for the past year I've been forcing myself to grow stronger...so that I could be with you again…

"As much as I hate him for leaving and then just showing up again like nothing happened...I have to be grateful to my father that he didn't let me give up...He knows the pain that comes from losing the other half of your soul. He didn't want to see it happen to me." Natsu paused as his hands tightened their grip on hers and he bowed his head to her. Then his soft voice surrounded her as he pleaded with her,

"Lucy I...I know that I may not be the man you imagined for yourself. But I can't live without you...not now that I've known the joy of sharing a love with you. I've made many mistakes in my past, especially when it comes to you. However, no one can love you as deeply as I do. No one can know the real you...the one you've only ever shown me.

"I'm abrasive and don't tend to think before I act, but that doesn't mean that the way I feel for you is just a random impulse. I know deep in my heart that you are the only woman I will ever love and the only one who has complete ownership of my heart. I love you so much it hurts and why I tend to act so possessively about you. I just...I just can't stand the thought of losing you…

"I'm sorry that I ever hurt you love...nothing I do can completely erase that...I just hope that one day I can grow strong enough to be the man who truly deserves someone as amazing as you. I promise...that if you decide to be with me again...to share the unwavering love that we both feel...then I will never let you down again...I love you too much to just quit like this...I'm willing to fight for us and I hope you are too...Because I really do love you Luce."

As soon as he was done talking he abruptly stood up and pulled her into his arms again. She never got to answer him because his kiss cut her words off. But the way she responded to him left no doubt about what their future would look like. No matter the obstacles they would now have to face together or the enemies that may still hunt for them, they would make it through. Because they would had their true love at their side.

'The End'

Lucy stood with the pages trembling in her fingers as tears filled her eyes. Her friends were right about the love confession. It was the most beautiful thing she had ever read. As her eyes remained focused on one particular words she began to giggle. Soon her giggles turned into full, hysterical laughter, worrying her already perplexed friends. She looked up at them with a wide smile and shouted,

"It's not over!"

They exchanged glances and then fixed her with their confused looks once more. Lucy hugged the pages to her chest as she continued to laugh uncontrollably.

"He still wants to fight for us! And so do I!" She laughed and Levy waved her hand in front of the blonde to gain her attention. Her friends were surrounding her in a half circle as they tried to figure out why she was acting so strange.

"Lu? What are you talking about?" Levy asked, but before she could say something incoherent again a deep laugh interrupted them. They turned to see Laxus leaning over the booth they had just been in, smiling at Lucy.

"Blondie's finally accepted how the hothead feels about her. Right?" He asked as he looked straight into her eyes. She nodded, her smile brightening further.

"Can someone please explain this to me. I know I'm buzzing, but I don't think I drank enough to be this confused." Cana said and Lucy giggled as she held out the pages to the woman.

"This...this is the answer I needed...That ending...I didn't write it. Natsu did!"

"How do you-"

"Only one person calls me 'Luce'! It has to be Natsu! Happy must have taken the story to him before giving it to Levy." Lucy said as she looked at her best friend. The woman's eyes widened as she finally caught up with everything.

"I wondered why you would have Happy drop off something you would normally keep under lock and key!"

"Lucy…" Mira whispered as her hand fell on the woman's shoulder and turned her. Mira's bright, blue eyes fixed the blonde with a meaningful look.

"Are you sure you're ready to be…"

"Yes." Lucy cut off the question and reached up to pull off her scarf, revealing the mark at her neck.

"I'm ready to be with the only man I love." She said, her voice full of conviction. Mira let out a shrill scream as she hugged the blonde tightly.

"Oh Lucy! I'm so happy! Oh!" She shouted as she pulled back, still holding Lucy's shoulders tightly as she remembered something. Her eyes widened as she looked at Lucy, her eyes saddening.

"Oh no...we might be too late." She whispered as she looked over at Laxus, who shared the same sour expression. Lucy grabbed Mira's arms in a panic and asked.

"Mira...Where is he?"

"I don't know. I don't know if he's left yet but…"

"But he came in last night to speak with Gramps...Natsu asked for a leave from the guild…" Laxus said and those around them fell into a deathly silence. Lucy looked horror-struck as those words sank in. Natsu was planning on doing what Loke had asked last night. He was going to stay away from her, but that wasn't what she wanted.

"No! We have to stop him!"

"Lu-chan...it could be too-"

"It's not too late! It'll never be too late so long as we're willing to fight! This is Fairy Tail! We don't give up on our dreams without at least trying!" She shouted. There was a slow applause and they all turned up to see the master standing on the railing with a large smile.

"I couldn't have said it better myself. I was against the boy's decision, but I had faith that you would knock some sense into him. What do you all say we drag the boy back here and get our favorite couple the second chance they want." He said and the guild erupted in cheers.

"How are we going to track him?"

"We should check his hut first!"

"But what if he puts up a fight and won't come with us?"

"Then we knock the dumbass out and carrying him back!"

Lucy felt her chest tighten with the support her family was showing to the two of them being together. There had never been a reason to question things, now she really understood that. A hand fell on her other shoulder and Lucy looked up to the fairy queen's mischievous smirk. Her voice rang out over everyone,

"No need to use force. There's one sure way to get Natsu to race back here on his own…"

Levy came over and pulled on Lucy's hand. Her smile was shining and her eyes were sparkling as she dragged Lucy towards the back of the guild.

"While we wait let's get you ready! Mira, Cana I'll need your help! We have to get Lucy looking perfect for when she confesses to Natsu!"

"Aye!" They all shouted and Lucy laughed. For once she was glad that Fairy Tail was so eccentric, because no normal people would react this way right now. She knew that with their determined help, she would have Natsu back in no time...Although she was curious about Erza's plan as the woman hadn't spoken while Lucy was there. What could possibly make Natsu drop everything and race back?

Natsu stood on top a hill overlooking Magnolia, saying one more silent goodbye before he went off to who knows where. He looked in the direction of Fairy Tail and held up his thumb and finger, sending his promise to them that he would see them one day. When he was stronger and better able to protect those around him, particularly...His eyes shifted to the left in the direction of her home.

Although he couldn't see it from where he was, he could clearly picture it in his mind. He could just imagine her sitting at her desk as she wrote something, tucking a hair behind her ear when she thought to herself. He sighed and pulled his sack further up and turned his back on his home.

"Come on Happy...We should head out before it gets dark." He said, trying to give his friend his usual grin. The blue cat was hovering next to him, his sad eyes still fixed on the town below him. He slowly turned to face Natsu as his little ears drooped again.

"Natsu...can't you just say you're sorry like usual?"

Natsu flinched at the innocent question. All Happy knew was that he had upset Lucy and now he had to leave. The cat didn't understand why Natsu was leaving completely and he didn't want to explain.

"It's not that simple this time buddy...If you don't want to go, you can stay here with Lu-everyone at the guild." He said, but Happy gave a sad sigh and a shake of his head.

"No...I'd be sad if you were gone for so long. I'll miss Lucy and Charle the most...but we'll get to see them once we come back. I'm sure it won't take long for Lucy to calm down. She always forgives us in the end." He said with a confident smile. Natsu had to turn away from it to hide his dark expression as he mumbled,

"Yeah...sure…" He started walking then and felt Happy following him. He didn't even know how long he would be away from her. All he knew was that each step made his legs feel like lead. He was fighting against his instincts to stay with her. Putting so much distance between them was like physical torture for him right now, but he had sworn to not go to her again. This was for the best anyways...He had rushed Lucy into this and it wasn't fair to either of them to try and continue to force it.

He gritted his teeth as Happy chatted about Charle and how she would miss him absently. Natsu wasn't listening. He was thinking to the words he had written last night. He didn't know what had compelled him to do it. All he remembered was walking near Lucy's home again on his way to speak with Master when that ending struck him all over again. He couldn't leave it like that.

Natsu wanted to believe that the two of them were meant to have a happy ending. So he had sent Happy for the story, lying that he wanted to read it before they left. Then he had written out a new ending. Never knowing that reading so much of Lucy's own writing would help him someday. But when it came time to write out the confession at the end...he hadn't been speaking to the fictional Luce…

Everything he had written had been with his Lucy in mind. He was telling her everything that he felt in his heart, even if he couldn't do it in person anymore. He wondered if she would even realize the ending had been changed or if it would make a difference after what he had done. He stopped walking suddenly, gripping his chest as the pain lanced through him. Mavis, this hurt...How was he going to keep walking, knowing that he was leaving the most important thing in his life behind him?

"Natsu?" Happy said when he realized that the man had stopped. Natsu shook his head, keeping his expression hidden, hoping that Happy wouldn't question him further. He started walking again, feeling his heart shatter with each step. A soft sound carried on the wind made him stop again. He frowned and turned, searching the direction he thought he heard it come from. He heard it again, but this time he realized it was someone calling for him.

"Natsu look!" Happy pointed up in the sky and Natsu focused on the shape racing towards them.

"Wendy?"

The small girl was shouting his name as they drew near. When they were hovering above them Natsu realized the small girl was crying. He wondered if the guild had found out about his plans to leave.

"Natsu you have to come to the guild!" Wendy shouted and Natsu started to shake his head when her next words froze his heart.

"Lucy's hurt!"

His pupils shrank and he swung around with a look of horror on his face as his chest seized.

"A group of dark mages ambushed her on her way to the guild! She's-" Wendy didn't get to finish as Natsu sprinted back towards the guild, his sack thrown to the ground as he called for Happy. The feline caught the man as he leapt into the air and they two shot across the sky. He had never felt so afraid and angry as he did in that moment. Lucy had been hurt while he was away from her. He had failed her again.

"FASTER HAPPY!"

"Aye sir!" His little buddy shouted and they shot forward again as Happy raced as fast as he could. The guild quickly approached and Happy dropped Natsu without slowing down. Natsu hit the ground running, his tunnel vision preventing him from focusing on anything else, but reaching her side. He threw open the doors with a loud crash, almost breaking the large, iron hinges.

"Where's Lucy!" He roared and those in the hall jumped at the sudden shout and the fury of the dragon slayer. He marched further into the guild about to grab someone by the throat when Levy came running up to him and grabbed his wrist.

"Natsu! This way!" She cried and began to drag him to the back where the infirmary was. She led him to one of the rooms and opened the door, letting him rush in.

"Lucy!?" Natsu shouted, his eyes instantly looking towards the beds. The empty beds. He frowned as the sound of the door shutting and the lock sliding into place made him turn around.

"What the hell?" He hissed and took a step to the door when another soft voice stopped him.

"Natsu…"

He froze for the second time as she came from around the curtain that had hidden her from him before. His mind had been too fogged to even register her scent in the room until that moment. He slowly turned to look at her and his breath caught as his eyes widened.

"Why…" He rasped. Why did she have to look so damn ethereal? So unattainable for someone like him. Her hair was pulled high on her head and fell in gentle waves to her bare shoulders. The dress she wore made his blood race at the same time it filled him with awe. It was pure white and looked like she was covered in moonlight, the material hugging her curves completely, making his mouth go dry.

"Natsu…" She whispered again, stopping and he saw the hesitation in her eyes and it cut him deeper. He turned from her, not wanting to see the fear in her beautiful eyes directed at him again. He couldn't handle seeing her look at him like that again. He growled as he went to the door quickly and attempted to open it. He even broke the lock with his strength, but the minute he began to push it open it was slammed shut again.

"Dammit guys!" He growled as he pushed harder, but the door didn't budge and he cursed at those leaning against it.

"Natsu wait…" He hadn't felt her move so close to him, so when her hand fell on his arm he flinched. He swung around, stepping to the side and away from her. But the look she gave him wasn't one full of pain and fear as he expected. She was looking at him with so much longing that it made his heart stop. He didn't trust his eyes because it seemed so unthinkable that she would still be so open with him after last night. But he couldn't be near her yet. He turned and started to slide past her.

"Don't…" He begged and reached for the door again.

"Natsu...I'm sorry." She whispered and his eyes widened in surprise. He hadn't expected her to apologize for anything so it stunned him silent.

"I know I hurt you last night Natsu...I'm sorry." She whispered and he swung around to face her quickly. Without thinking he went to her and grabbed her upper arms desperately.

"Don't...Don't apologize for anything that happened last night. I'm the one who needs to-" She placed her finger gently against his lips and stopped his words with the gentle smile she offered him.

"No...you don't need to say anything Natsu. You said your piece already...now it's my turn." She said and lifted her hands up, forcing his hands to loosen on her arms. She reached up and cupped his cheeks between her hands as her eyes misted with tears, but she was still smiling up at him.

"When I realized I'd fallen in love with you...I was so scared...Scared that something would prove we weren't meant to be together. All around us were warnings that came along with being with you...It scared me to think that something could tear you away from me. I didn't want to lose you, but I didn't know how to explain my feelings either. I kept my hesitations to myself and as a result we were both hurt. But I'm not hesitating anymore…" She said through a watery smile and his hands came up to grab her wrists as his heart seized, praying that she was about to say what he hoped she was.

"I love you Natsu...I'm always going to love only you. It doesn't matter what happened before or what happens after. The only thing that's important now is that I want to be with you. Completely. No more secrets, no more overthinking. I love you Natsu Dragneel and I'm ready to be your mate for the rest of my life." She whispered and lifted herself up to press her sweet lips softly to his. His grip tightened, but he didn't deepen the kiss, letting her control it. She pulled back and slowly their eyes opened and reconnected.

"But Lucy...What I said to you...What I did-"

She cut him off with another kiss, this time applying more pressure and sliding her hands back to bury her fingers in his hair, molding her body along his. He groaned as his own arms lowered to wrap around her waist, holding her against him. She pulled back and the light shining behind her eyes made her look more beautiful than he had ever seen her before.

"I'm willing to fight...because I love you too much to quit like this." She whispered against his lips and he groaned as he crushed her against him, burying his face against her neck.

"Lucy...I'm sorry...I promise that I will never hurt you again...I love you Lucy...I love you so much it feels like I'm going to explode." He cried as all his emotions came crashing forward and he held her tightly. She clung to him just as tightly, tears of joy dampening his vest. He pulled back and reached up to cup her face, piercing her with a sharp and determined look.

"I'm going to fight for you Luce. I meant that. I'll become someone deserving of you because I love you more than I thought was possible. But…" He swallowed and she looked up at him with worried eyes. He brushed back a loose strand of hair and tilted her face back, leaning closer so that his hot breath caressed her lips.

"But I don't just want to be with you because of some 'dragon hormones'...I need you to understand Lucy. I love you. And I want you to be by my side, but not because of some mark or rules that comes with me being what I am…" He smiled down at her.

"I want you because I can't imagine my life without you in it. You are my best friend, my whole world Luce. I want to be there for every moment after this. I want to protect you with all my strength and to go on many more adventures together. Most importantly...I want to hold you in my arms, kiss you every morning and make love to you every night…" She blushed at that and he chuckled as he kissed her lightly. His eyes pleaded with her along with his next whispered words.

"Marry me Lucy...don't just be my mate...become my wife."

Her eyes doubled in size and more tears flooded them as she let out a small sob. But she nodded and he captured her lips with his fully. Kissing her like his life depended on it and she returned with her own blazing passion. Natsu heard a faint buzzing sound that could only be their family celebrating after eavesdropping on their conversation. But he ignored it as he focused his attention on the woman in his arms.

"I love you Lucy. With all my heart." He whispered between kisses and she hummed in response because he didn't give her a chance to respond right away. They lost track of how long they held each other, kissing until they were breathless. The door finally flew open and Gray stood there grinning at the pair.

"You still breathing?" He laughed and the two pulled apart and swung to face him. He held up the mug in his hand and waved his hand to them.

"You two are missing your own party! Let's go losers!"

Natsu grinned and looked down at Lucy as he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her to his side.

"Funny...I don't feel like a loser." He said and the heat in his eyes made her giggle. Gray rolled his eyes and pretended to gag. Natsu only chuckled as he led Lucy out of the room and the two joined the rest of their guild. They were instantly swamped by people offering congratulations and jeering about how long it took. The guild partied with more energy than they had in awhile, wanting to enjoy the happy occasion with vigor! The drinks ran and people laughed until the sun set over the hills.

Lucy sighed as she stood off to the side, finally having a moment of peace. She had been separated from Natsu when he had been pulled into a headlock by Laxus and it resulted in a Fairy Tail brawl. She smiled as she looked out over her guildmates' happy faces as they drank and sang with their usual merriment. She felt her heart warming, knowing that they were just as happy for her as she was in this moment.

"Found you…"

A warm pair of arms wrapped around her from behind and she fell back against his hard chest, resting her head on his shoulder. He chuckled and nuzzled the side of her head. Then he turned her so that she was looking up at him, his hand sliding up her neck to cup her face tenderly. His dark eyes were even more mesmerizing in the dark corner they stood in. He leaned forward to claim her lips in a sudden searing kiss that made her insides melt. When he pulled back he grinned, flashing his fangs at her. She raised her brow at the sudden look in his eyes, the one that he got when he got one of his 'bright ideas'.

She opened her mouth to ask, but it came out in a shriek as he crouched down, grabbing her legs and throwing her over his shoulder. He straightened, laughing as she struggled and hit his back in an attempt to free herself. He began to stride towards the entrance of the guild, ignoring her shouts to be put down.

"Natsu!" He stopped then and turned to stare back at Cana who was grinning at the bar. Others were watching them and Lucy felt her face redden in embarrassment at what they were probably thinking.

"Where exactly are you sneaking off to?" Cana snickered, wiggling her brows at the two and earning a few laughs from the rest of the guild. Natsu only grinned wider and swung back towards the giant doors, calling over his shoulder.

"Me and the future Mrs. Dragneel have some things we need to discuss in private!" He laughed and her whole face went up in flames as she covered it with her hands, trying to drown out the wolf whistles and cheers following them. Once they were a good distance from the guild he stopped and slowly set her back on the ground. She pulled back and crossed her arms in a huff. He laughed at the face she made and held up his hands in defense.

"Ah come on Luce. How else was I going to get us out of there?" He whispered, leaning closer and nuzzling the side of her neck affectionately and she felt herself relaxing. She sighed and shook her head as he pulled back to look down at her.

"You're impossible Natsu." She sighed and he chuckled as he wrapped his arms around her waist, gently pulling her to him. His eyes softened as he rested his forehead against hers, holding her tenderly in his arms. Then his eyes slid closed as he whispered,

"But you love me still, right Luce?"

She let her own eyes slide closed as her hands came up to wrap around his neck, returning the soft hug.

"Yes…"

"Say it…" He urged, his arms tightening subtly.

"I love you Natsu."

"Good. Cause I love you Lucy and I'm not going to let you go again." He whispered and tilted his head, resting his lips over hers. And as they embraced under the moonlight both shared the same thought.

'This was the happy ending they had both fought for.'

THE END!

Well there you are ladies and gentlemen! I hope that this was everything you hoped it would be and that you enjoyed it immensely! Please be sure to let me know what you thought by leaving a comment. I'm pretty happy with how this turned out, but I'm always apprehensive until I hear back from my readers so please let me know! I can't believe I made it and actually finished it yay! Thank you for all the love and support you gave me in my first FT fanfic as it pushed me to keep going and to finish! Well then...Until next time, stay awesome my lovelies!