8/3/15: Original Chapter 54. Posted when the story is completed, as promised. No changes: A/N: OK, dudes and dudettes, I wanted to get this chapter out, but I also wanted it to be
It's marked with "Mature Content" above it, for those of you who wish to avoid it. It ends the chapter. I debated on writing it the way I did, and decided to go with it. What the hell, right? I know some may think this is out of context, and I'll disagree with you, especially after 50+ chapters of buildup. This is a first for me, and I can't tell you how many times I paced around my room as I wrote this, blushing like a schoolgirl. So, please, please, please enjoy my very first mature adult scene.
I'll be abroad for some medical mission from mid-March through mid-April, so I may not post anything until I return. I'll try to get another chapter out before then, but I can't make any promises. I will promise to continue writing when I return-the end is near. I'm not sure what kind of internet connection/availability I'll have abroad, so please accept my apologies. And pray I don't get some random illness. I got my vaccinations, but I have uncanny luck in getting sick.
As corny as it sounds, I couldn't keep writing this story without everyone's encouragement. As one decent human being to other decent human beings: thank you—all of you.
Please, let me know what you think of this chapter. Happy Reading. RxR!
PS: I wanted to remind you all that I was unable to keep up with the current manga after the Edo Arc, so my plot will now deviate as I had originally intended it to. I must admit, I do find oddly similar subject matter between my story and the current arc. Especially with including Lucy's mom as Aquarius' owner. Score!
~OoOoO~
"Wow, Mirajane really cleaned this place up well!" Lucy's eyes were wide as she, Adie, and Levy walked into the main hall.
The two mages had practically dragged Adie from the smithy, the demi-spirit not wanting to take part in the night's festivities. Lucy found it boring that she would much rather work on weapons than enjoy strong drinks and fine company. The blonde pulled her jacket more tightly around her body as her eyes scanned the crowd a second time as her friends stepped up beside her; there were so many mages!
"Looks like they knocked some walls down," Adie remarked, her pale eyes directed ahead. Lucy knew she hated huge events, and this was no exception. She glanced at Levy, who closed in on Adie's right to ensure she didn't consider a swift exit.
"Yeah, it does," Levy remarked, clearing her throat. "I can't believe that this may be our last night—" she choked out, suddenly stopping.
"Hey, stop that," Adie growled softly, "It's not gonna be. Have some faith...or somethin' like that." Her cheeks reddened as the two girls watched her curiously, Lucy raising an eyebrow in question as pale eyes avoided her silent inquiry.
"Yeah, you can't think like that, Levy!" Lucy agreed as Adie's ears began to change color. "Let's just have fun tonight! We'll see what tomorrow brings...tomorrow!" Despite her outward cheerfulness, Lucy was just as turbulent inside as Levy.
The blue-haired scholar nodded hesitantly, chewing on her bottom lip as her eyes grew misty. After a few moments, she finally broached the topic that was really bothering her. "Guys..." she whispered. "What if—what if Joey and those other two were right? About..."
"Huh?" Adie asked, oblivious to the exchange two days prior. She looked to Lucy for clarification, her brow furrowed in confusion.
Gajeel, Lucy mouthed, noticing the slight nod of Adie's head as her expression grew into one of recognition. "You can't listen to what those idiots say. He'll be back, don't worry, Levy." Lucy patted the mage's shoulder. "He promised."
"I think Lucy is right, he will return," Adie firmly replied, surprising both women with her conviction as well as her belief in the abrasive dragon slayer.
Levy looked at Adie, moisture in her eyes. "You think so?" she asked, glad that someone beside Lucy supported her nodded, her smile crooked. She was still thin, and not looking much better over the past few days. Lucy was unsure if the woman was getting better or worse. She had tried to ask Levy, who avoided the topic.
"I'm pretty good at judging people!" Lucy insisted, earning a skeptical look from the demi-spirit.
"No matter how much I think he's a lout, I have a feeling he'll be back. He promised you, right?" Levy nodded. Adie's hand remained on the younger woman's shoulder, "He's not the type to break his promises, I can tell you that. I know those types."
Levy smiled, her firm belief in Gajeel etched in her features. After a few moments, she spoke, her voice soft. "You're right. They are just stupid boys!" She hunched her shoulders, looking around guiltily, "I feel kinda sorry for punching Joey in the face."
"You," Adie's eyes were wide, "punched someone?"
"Yeah..." Levy sheepishly replied.
"And I missed it?" Adie's expression grew dangerously dreamy. Lucy was amused by the transition in her demeanor. She was finally opening up to the mages around her, her walls coming down. "Awesome..." her voice was barely audible as she spoke more to herself than her friends. Levy muffled a giggle.
"It was," Lucy confirmed, nodding vigorously. "I was impressed. You should have seen the look on Joey's face!"
"Ladies!" interrupted a woman's stern voice. "Are you just going to crowd the entrance?"
"Erza!" they all chirped together, noticing the ex-quipping mage was, for once, without any armor.
"No comments," the red-head raised her hand, palm outward as she used the other to emphasize her attire. "Let's just have fun tonight, OK?" Her face held a smile that her eyes did not support, and Lucy knew that she was most likely thinking about how she may or may not have to face Jellal the next day.
"OK!" Levy saluted her, jokingly.
"Aye," Adie nodded. "Or as Happy would say."
Erza smiled, as she walked past them. Before she had completely move from within earshot, she turned her head slightly, looking at Lucy from the corner of her eye. "I'm sure Natsu'll be coming along, soon."
"Uh, er..." Lucy replied after a moment's hesitation. She hadn't expected that statement. "Thanks for, um, letting me know, I guess."
"Thought you should," Erza murmured with a nod as she continued to walk away, red hair swaying behind her. She followed with something else, but Lucy couldn't quite hear. She thought she could make out "..in case you plan on killing him..."
"Have you talked to him?" Levy asked, angling her head and lowering her voice.
"No," Lucy grit her teeth, her anger and hurt returning as her eyes swept the crowd. "And when I do..."
"It's gonna get ugly," Levy finished, nodding in understanding. "Maybe you should try being rational at first. He may have a good reason, you know."
"What reason could be good enough to ignore the person closest to you?" Lucy asked, her eyes imploring Levy to give her an answer that she could believe.
"I dunno," the blue-haired mage responded softly as she tapped her chin. "It's just that..."
"Just that what?"
"Nothing!" Levy responded. Just that he cares so much. She smiled brightly, changing the subject. "Let's forget about stupid boys and just go have a few drinks and enjoy ourselves. Mirajane has a band for us tonight!"
"Right," Lucy nodded as she grabbed Adie's arm and dragged her forward. "I think I saw Jura over there!" she informed them. "I haven't seen him since we fought Oracion Seis, and I'm glad to see he's here. We can't lose with him on our side! Let's go say hi!"
The night wore on, and sure enough, Natsu made himself present, as Erza promised. The room was packed with mages from all over—those that were brave enough to fight for their freedom. Guilds were introduced and welcomes rang out as everyone formally met outside of the sparring grounds. One mercenary guild had arrived late that evening, and the dark-skinned fighters were currently, and somewhat uncomfortably, gathered at the far end of the hall, some in conversation with the magic folk around them.
Mirajane was a wonderful and gracious host, taking the microphone to address the crowd, giving them a riveting speech. "I just want to welcome everyone here to Magnolia."
Cheers.
"Marry me, Mirajane!"
"I love you!"
"I want to have your babies!" Laughter. Mira waved for silence.
"I appreciate your ardor, gentlemen," she kindly smiled, her face lighting up. "But my heart belongs to someone. You are all too late, I'm afraid!"
Groans of dissatisfaction were heard as Lucy and Levy exchanged confused glances. Lucy shrugged. She had no idea that Mirajane was seeing anyone. "Who...?" she wondered aloud.
"Hibiki-san," came the soft whisper from behind them. Lucy turned to find Elfman standing there, looking at his sister proudly.
"Hibiki? How? When?" Lucy's mouth fell open. She knew her questions were rude, but she couldn't stop them from tumbling from her mouth.
Elfman smiled, "I can't say, to be honest. But, she has been caring for him for some time. I think she developed an attachment only a woman could for a man in a state of weakness."
Lucy pondered his explanation. It did make sense. She thought back to how angry Mirajane had been when Hibiki had nearly given his life to use his magic in such a deteriorated state. She had been furious enough that she had hit the Blue Pegasus mage to stop him. It had been been enough of a distraction—enough so that Hibiki was still alive.
"I think it's a good match," Cana interjected, flashing her cards between her fingers. "It's in the cards."
Lucy smiled, glad to see that Mirajane has finally found someone worthy of her love. Her own jealousy of Mirajane's open feelings clawed at the pit of her stomach. She said nothing more as the new Guild Master continued her welcoming speech.
"Tonight we are not mages of a different guild—or any guild at all! Tonight we are members of the world of free will. We are united in that, making us brothers and sisters in bonds. The food will be unending and the beverages flowing," she raised her hands, emphasizing the abundance they had before them. A sly smile spread across her face as her voice lowered mischievously, "I might add that the effects of the ale is real, but we have a welcomed guest that has modified it so...so there will be no after effects."
Mirajane smiled, waving to a frail looking mage with a balding head jutting out of his dark brown robe. He nodded respectfully as cheers broke out. People patted him on the back so fervently that he almost collapsed.
"Yes," she laughed, you can drink to your hearts' contents and not feel the slightest hangover tomorrow! But—" her eyes flashed dangerously, "I do not want to see anyone fighting. If that happens, you will face me."
The room grew silent again as Mirajane's voice hissed her threat. She straightened herself, clearing her throat and smiling sweetly, "So, with that said, drink and be merry. For tomorrow, we may all be no more!" The hall grew somber as she looked around, her eyes soft. "Yes, it's true. Tomorrow we will fight." She glanced at Charle, who was sitting on the bar next to Wendy. The cat nodded her head.
"After midday, we will gather at the bluffs. Erza and Jura have drawn out plans, and you will all receive orders at dawn." She waved politely toward the two mages, who were standing against the far wall. Erigor was currently in conversation with Jura, and Erza's eyes darted around the crowd as she nodded. "Bob was kind enough to lend us the help of his ship, as well. A flight squadron has been appointed, and will be named tomorrow."
More murmurs.
"That said, we have a lot to be thankful for," Mira smiled sadly, "One being such great company!"
Cheers. Whistles.
Lucy spotted Natsu upstairs, leaning against the railing as Happy whispered something in his ear. She noticed the bandage over the cat's eye, and wondered if Porlyusica was unable to help him. The dragon slayer's gaze slid to Lucy, where their eyes remained locked in a staring contest—she out of anger and him out of tormented apology. She blinked first, and his gaze was elsewhere. She wanted to run up there and wring his neck, but she was sure she would have ample time to speak to him later. She would speak with him later; it was a promise she made herself. Her hands silently snaked up to the thin chain around her neck. She squeezed the tiny trinkets, praying they would give her strength to face him without becoming a blubbering idiot.
Mirajane's voice continued to carry throughout the hall. "So enjoy our Fairy Tail hospitality! Let the festivities begin!"
Applause and laughter rang out as people hugged the person next to them, well wishes being offered. Lucy was pulled into a hug by a young, thin man who was much taller than herself. He smiled, the dimple in his right cheek enchanting her momentarily.
"I'm Ryne," he smiled. "From Blue Pegasus. You must be Lucy Heartfilia!"
"Oh, y-yes!" she replied, somewhat startled that he knew her name.
He leaned in, covering his mouth as he whispered to her, "We all know about you. You're one of Fairy Tail's strongest."
Lucy faked a blush, batting her eyelashes coyly, "Thank you for the compliment. But there are many stronger than me."
"I highly doubt that!" Ryne laughed as he drew back, his messy red hair falling in his aqua eyes, "Please, Miss Heartfilia, would you save me a dance later?"
Lucy smiled, unable to resist his innocent request, "S-Sure, why not?" It couldn't hurt, right?
She was quickly dragged away by Miki, soon falling into a heated debate with Gray about something nonsensical. Despite her annoyance with Natsu, she found that her night was quite enjoyable as she met new faces and spoke to her friends. Hours passed, and drinks were easily making rounds. The festivities grew and Lucy happily chatted away, all the while her eyes searching for the distant dragon slayer. She caught glimpses of his familiar pink hair on occasion, but he was never close enough for her to pull aside.
"Miss Heartfilia!" she heard someone call. She spun around to find the young man from earlier. "Miss Heartfilia, would you dance with me?" He held out a hand. Lucy glanced to the front of the guild where she could see a few couples dancing in front of the stage. Nearby, Mirajane was crooning into the microphone, swaying to the piano as her husky alto carrying throughout the hall.
"O-OK!" she agreed as her hand slipped into his.
While he was endearing, she was not interested in him in the least. She caught Natsu's eye as she followed the boy to the dance floor. Her attention returned to her dance partner as she took his hand and guided it to her hip. She began to sway, hoping that Natsu was regretting that she was having a good time. She focused on Ryne as they danced. His face grew red and his posture was stiff as he moved back and forth on his feet. Lucy sighed, realizing she had her work cut out for her. She pulled him closer, her childhood ballroom dance lessons proving themselves effective. Soon, the young man had loosened up, and people were standing around watching their swift moves. She had no idea he would prove to be such an adept dance partner.
"Copy magic," he leaned in, whispering in her ear.
"I see," she smiled, understanding him. "Can you copy any magic?"
"Oh no," he replied, "I'm not that good! I can only copy physical things. Like this."
"I'm sure that'll come in handy!" she replied, her eyes darting toward Natsu. She could see him deep in conversation with Macao, Levy and Adie. The older man was waving his hand somewhat angrily as Natsu furrowed his brow. She craned her neck to find Erza, Gray, Juvia and Elfman nearby. Bob was hovering above, clapping his hands enthusiastically. Wendy was nearby, sitting with her head in her hands.
Your fire is all I need. All I want.
My spirit is yearning for you...
Lucy's ears perked up at Mirajane's words, and she turned her partner so that she could get a better look at the Guild Master. The pale-haired mage had her fingers to her temples as she continued to croon:
We were best friends, but I want more,
Lovers we can only be if you'll let me in..
Lucy could feel her face turning red as Mirajane opened an eye and winked at her. Her mouth fell open as she quickly felt a kinship with the singer's lyrics.
"What's wrong?" Ryne asked, looking over his shoulder as he noticed Lucy's stiffened posture. "Miss Heartfilia?"
"Nothing," Lucy snapped, embarrassed. "Let's just keep dancing."
Ryne turned to glance at Mirajane, "She definitely knows the people in her guild."
"What does that mean?" Lucy inquired curiously.
"Um, er," the young man's face turned red. "I was just—"
"Spit it out," Lucy's eyes narrowed suspiciously. Mirajane's reaction had prompted her sudden distrust in the newcomer's intentions. " How do you really know me?"
He stopped dancing, sweat shining on his upper lip. He avoided her look of scrutiny, "Erm, well...she—Mirajane—sort of asked me to dance with you— "
"She what?" Lucy breathed, her eyes wide. "All of this...she set it up didn't she?"
Ryne nodded, and Lucy suddenly felt foolish. Mirajane was singing about her! She asked the Ryne to dance with Lucy in order to make Natsu jealous—and a mage with magic that would complement Lucy's skill, no less. She could be ruthless when she wanted to...
Lucy huffed a few times, at a loss for words. Ryne stammered, "I-I'm s-s-sorry! It had been on my own accord, if it's any consolation!"
"Yeah," Lucy muttered, stepping away from him. She looked around for her friends, her embarrassment evident on her face as the song ended. She looked back to her partner. "Thank you, Ryne, but, the fun ends here. I have something I need to do."
Her anger was pounding in her ears as she watched Mirajane wave to the crowd as she took a break between songs, casting nervous glances at Lucy. The spirit mage balled her fists as she lumbered toward the group of Fairy Tail mages. She could see Levy look up in surprise from her intense conversation with Adie. Natsu's dark gaze flickered toward Lucy, immediately straightening as she walked up to him. Macao looked somewhat more content than he had, earlier, his eyes wandering over Lucy.
"Luce," the pink-haired mage murmured.
"Hmmph," she grunted, ignoring him and looking around, "What's going on? Why's everyone hanging out over here? This is our last night, you know!"
Each of the mages looked uncomfortable for their own personal reasons,and Lucy faintly registered Mirajane requesting a much longer break for herself and the band. The room was now left to the mercy of the mages' conversations. Lucy glanced at Juvia, who averted her gaze. Gray was staring at his feet in silence.
"Why is everyone acting strange?" she looked around once more, feeling more supported in her suspicions.
"We were just talking about tomorrow, aye. About who will be where." Happy uneasily quipped as his paw fussed with the bandage over his eye. "Adie and Levy are going to stay with Porlyusica and guard Makarov—"
"What about me?" Lucy asked, her heart racing. No one answered, and it only confirmed her fears. They were speaking about her.
Or at least, she was the topic of conversation at one point. When no one answered, she sighed, crossing her arms over her chest. "What about me?" she spoke more slowly, enunciating every word carefully.
"Luce.." Natsu began, looking somewhat uncomfortable.
"Don't 'Luce' me, Natsu!" she growled, "You're too good to even speak to me until now! So spit it out!"
Macao intervened, "I don't want Romeo here tomorrow. I was asking Natsu if there was a way to get him out of Magnolia. Safely." His eyes betrayed the calm he was exuding.
"He's old enough to know what he wants, isn't he?" Lucy wasn't sure where the conversation was going. "Can't he decide if he wants to leave?"
"I'm his father, and I will make that final decision, despite him saying that exact same thing to me," the older man smirked. "But, as his father, I would prefer him to have the opportunity to make a life for himself."
"We are going to win tomorrow!" Lucy slapped her fist into her open palm. "But if you are that concerned, why not have Reedus create something to take Romeo away. Like he had for me once?"
Macao shrugged, "I can't argue with that logic, buddy." He patted Natsu on his shoulder. "Perhaps that's the best way..." he looked up at Lucy.
"Dammit, what is the meaning of this?" she asked, noticing the defeated slump of Natsu's shoulders.
Gray stepped in, "Uh, Lucy, we were just talking about stuff, and we thought it, er, best that—"
"That you stay back tomorrow," Natsu finished, finality in his voice as he straightened himself, avoiding Lucy's look of surprise.
"What?" Lucy whispered, her eyes wide with shock. "What does that mean?"
"That you not fight," Adie answered bluntly, her expression revealing nothing of her own thoughts. Lucy was unsure as to whether the demi-spirit was against it or not. Both Levy and Adie were staying behind...
Lucy looked at Natsu, her expression incredulous as she awaited his answer. He licked his lips, "It's true. We talked about it."
"Whose idea was it?" she asked, her voice growing shrill.
Silence.
"Whose?" she hissed much more loudly than she had anticipated.
"Mine. Look, Luce—" Natsu began, being abruptly stopped by the palm that slapped him across the face.
Lucy could hear the gasps as her heart raced and the bile rose in her throat. She grasped her right wrist in her left hand, the palm stinging from the impact. A red welt began to form on Natsu's left cheek as he stared at her in wide-eyed shock.
"Oh shit," Gray muttered under his breath.
"How dare you..." Lucy hissed between her teeth, her chest heaving.
"Lucy, please," Natsu tried to explain, ignoring angry hand print on his face.
"No, you look, dragon slayer," she spat, venom in her voice, "You aren't the boss of me, despite what you seem to think!"
"Lucy," Levy tried to intervene, but Lucy ignored her, her eyes on Natsu.
"I trusted you. You were my best friend. My best friend! And this is how you treat me? This is how much I mean to you is it?" she waved her hand, laughing haughtily. She ignored the growing silence in the hall as people became aware of what was occurring. "You kiss me then go away without me, not telling me where you went. Then you return only to ignore me without explanation." She could feel the hot tears forming in her eyes, but she made no attempt to stop them. The guild was now quiet as everyone listened to her furious tirade.
"Lucy," he whispered, his eyes wide as he glance around, "Let's talk about this—"
"Shut up! Just shut up, Natsu!" she screamed. "I don't care what your reasons are! How could you do this to me? To me! Do you know how much it hurts to know my best friend is avoiding me? " She knew she was acting like a child, but she couldn't stop herself as the dam holding her emotions crumbled. They were hours away from war, and she wasn't going to hold back any more. She had nothing to lose.
"No, you can't! You're too busy being selfish. And now—now..." her lower lip trembled as the tears splashed her cheeks, her stinging palm a long-forgotten memory.
Natsu stared at her, his eyes round and his face pale. Happy danced around nervously, unsure of what to do. From the corner of her eye, she saw Adie wave a hand at him, signaling for him to be still. Gray was slowly backing away, pulling Juvia with him. Levy watched, her expression unreadable. Lucy thought that at least she could understand Lucy's pain. Macao was speaking to someone over his shoulder, possibly Gildarts.
"...Now you tell me I can't fight—I can't protect what's important to me? Go to hell, you big idiot! I have news for you: I don't need your protection! I'm going to fight, and I don't care if I have your blessing, dammit. So save your stupid self-righteous bullshit for someone who gives a damn!" She was screaming at him, her fingertip pressing into his chest. He kept stepping backward away from her, muttering her name over and over again as the tears spilled down her cheeks.
When he could retreat no more, his back to the wall, Lucy stood her ground, glaring at him through watery eyes. "Mark my words, Natsu. If I live through this war, I never—never—want to see your face again! I regret ever falling in love with you!"
With her last fervent revelation, she gasped, her hands flying to her mouth as she clamped it shut. Her eyes were wide, but Natsu's were much wider as they stared at one another in shock. She released her grip, looking around the deathly silent hall. She could hear Bob sobbing as he fluttered above, but she was too humiliated to care. Her mouth opened and closed a few more times as her face grew crimson as a few claps were heard. Her ears burned with realization at what she said, and she didn't have the chance to take comfort in the fact that her friends did not seem the least bit surprised by her ill-timed and unexpected confession. In fact, the only one who seemed surprised was Natsu.
He said nothing as Lucy tried to say something—to retract her words as her face grew purple. She wiped her tears away, and, in a cry of frustration she turned and ran from the guild. The crowd parted for her, soft whispers proving their recovery. Whispers grew into murmurs and soon the hall was loud with retelling of Lucy's confession—some much more dramatic. Natsu stood there for quite some time, staring after Lucy, his face pale with shock. A slight sheen of sweat was visible on his lip as he tried to stop his thundering heart.
"Well, that didn't go so well, did it?" Adie quipped from beside him. Erza quietly dismissed herself after Lucy, casting a worried glance at Mirajane, who silently observed the quarrel as she wrung her hands in dismay.
Natsu finally recovered, clearing his throat as he stiffly shook his head, "No."
Happy smirked, somewhat satisfied. "Perhaps you should talk to her?"
Natsu stared in the direction Lucy had fled, running his hand through his hair while he considered Happy's suggestion. His plan had backfired much more horribly than he had anticipated. Perhaps if he could have explained to her his reasons, she would have been less irate. But, he had never anticipated that reaction from her. It wasn't easy on him to avoid her, especially not after they had complicated things with the kiss he couldn't forget about. It was truly all he thought about, though he didn't want to admit it. There were a lot of things Natsu didn't want to admit, especially his dwindling control he was fighting to maintain over his senses and emotions.
"Levy..." He didn't look at the blue-haired mage as he licked his lips, his voice nearly failing him as his heart raced. "I need your help."
Lucy sat in the middle of her apartment, staring at the mounds of clothes strewn about. Her hands were clasped on her knees as she sat on the backs of her legs, chewing on her lower lip to keep from crying. She wasn't sure that she had any tears left to cry. Erza had just left, an hour after barging into Lucy's apartment to find the spirit mage furiously packing her clothes with a swollen, tear-stained face. The red-head had finally calmed her down, managing to get Lucy to sit and listen to reason.
"You are upset, that is understandable," Erza told her, pacing in front of Lucy to prevent the woman from bolting with her half-packed luggage. The blonde mage said nothing as the tears silently streaking her face as she rocked back and forth holding herself. Erza sat beside her, doing her best to comfort Lucy, who buried her face in Erza's neck and sobbed. The two of them sat like that for some time, neither saying anything.
"I know how you feel," Erza whispered.
Lucy pulled away, looking at the woman in surprise. "You do? How?" Her tone was filled with disbelief—as she doubted Erza had ever been humiliated in front of the guild like that. No, not Erza, who was so strong and hard-headed. No one thought she was weak.
Erza's eyes remained ahead as the corner of her mouth twitched, "I don't know exactly how you feel, but I can only assume...as someone who cares deeply about a boy who is just as foolish. Stupid, even."
Lucy stared at her hands, realizing who Erza was speaking of. "What are you...going to do when you see him?"
"What can I do?" Erza bitterly laughed. "Kill him. That is my duty. I am sworn, as one of the Holy Mages, to protect what is good."
"Just like that?" Lucy whispered, wondering how Erza would find the courage to do so.
"Just like that," Erza smiled sadly, her eyes misting over. "It's what's best for...both of us, I guess."
Lucy nodded, her lower lip trembling. "I just don't know why he's acting like this."
"Didn't you hear me?" Erza sighed.
"Wha?"
"Perhaps he's acting that way because he thinks that's what's best for you. Did you ever ask him that, Lucy?" Erza looked directly at her, dark eyes boring into Lucy's chocolate ones.
"No, erm.." Lucy tapped her fingertips together, feeling foolish. "Why would that be best for me?"
Erza's wry grin was accompanied by a shake of her head. "He's in a position like me. He has to do what's best for everyone. Protect everyone; protect you." She glanced at Lucy from the corner of her eye, "Even if it's from yourself."
From myself? Lucy silently repeated. "What does that mean?"
Erza had stood, wringing her hands and pacing a few more times. "I should go. Have you calmed down enough to not pack up and run away?"
Lucy nodded hesitantly, glancing around her room, "I guess so."
"Good," Erza replied firmly.
"Erza?" Lucy sheepishly glanced up at the ex-quipping mage. "What would you have done if I had just run?"
Erza studied her for a moment, a smile tugging at her lips. "Plan B."
"Plan B?"
"I'd have rendered you unconscious of course," Erza's expression was serious.
"Yikes," Lucy muttered under her breath. "A little extreme, no?"
Erza shook her head, her eyes on Lucy, "When this is all over with, you, at least, may have a chance at your happy ending." She turned to leave the studio apartment, looking over her shoulder as she exited. "I have to go, there are things I need to do in preparation for tomorrow. But, whatever you do Lucy, trust in him. He cares about you."
The door abruptly shut behind the redhead, and Lucy had been sitting there since, surrounded by piles of clothes. She had cried for herself; she had cried for Erza. She knew that her friend was correct in her words of wisdom, but Lucy's heart did not want to believe it. Her eyes darted to the clock. It was nearly midnight. She didn't want to go back to the hall—the memory of her outburst haunting her.
A knock at the door made her jump. She stared at her door until a more furious knock followed.
"W-Who is it?" she asked, her voice a hoarse whisper.
No answer.
"I guess, since no one is there, I don't have to open it."
"It's me."
Her eyes fluttered open as her heart raced. She would recognize his muffled voice anywhere. Her hands tremble as her wobbly legs carried her toward the door. She gripped the doorknob, but it was pushed open before she could turn it. The door hit her, and she fell backwards onto the floor. She glared up angrily.
"That was rude! You should wait until someone opens the door for you! You don't just barge into someone's apartment, you idiot!" she rubbed her aching rear as Natsu looked down at her, startled.
"Sorry?"
"Hmph!" she grunted, "What do you want? Now you come find me? I'm not leaving, you know."
"I know," he replied softly as she pushed herself upright. He glanced around her apartment, "What happened?"
"Nothing," Lucy crossed her arms over her chest, feeling silly for her earlier behavior. "Erza stopped me."
"You were going to run away?" he asked, his expression somber. "Because of me?"
Lucy glared at him, "Don't think you're that special."
"But you said—" he began to remind her of her earlier proclamation.
"I know what I said!" Lucy squealed, hoping to forget it. "I was just angry!"
Natsu nodded, saying nothing. "I've come to say I'm sorry, Luce. You were right, I had no business volunteering you to take Romeo. You deserve to be here as much as anyone."
"And?" Lucy tapped her foot, feeling her heart race at his visible discomfort.
He stared at the floor, his fists clenched at his sides. Suddenly, he reached behind himself and pulled something shoved into the waist of his pants. It was thick and square. Paper. He handed the misshapen bundle to her, the papers haphazardly stuffed together. He avoided her look of surprise.
"Here."
Lucy's eyebrows drew together as she tentatively reached out to grab the package. "What's this?"
She gently took the paper and looked through them—immediately recognizing them.
"I kept them. All of them." Natsu whispered, gesturing toward the items in her hands. "Since our very first mission."
Lucy gasped as she perused the papers. Mission calls. Newspaper articles. Magazine covers. Lucy, Natsu and Happy smiling from Wizard Weekly. Lucy, Erza, Grey, and Natsu standing outside of Magnolia Town. Galuna Island's mission request. Tickets from a play they had seen. More pictures. A piece of fabric that Lucy immediately recognized as part of an old t-shirt she had ripped up to make a tourniquet for Natsu. She covered her mouth with her hands as she flipped through the articles, touched that he had mementos of their time together. Every last mission and pay stub. Every mention of her name.Everything.
The tears spilled over as she took in what he was showing her. She looked up at him, her voice weak, "Why?"
"Reminds me of you," he murmured, looking away. "And our time together. The fun we had." He clenched his fists, staring at the floor, "And, for the record, I don't think you are weak. I think you are one of the strongest people I know. But, I can't help wanting to protect you."
"I don't want protected, silly," she cried as she held the papers to her chest.
"I know...but...I saw—" he started, shaking his head and willing the thoughts away with a frustrated growl.
"Saw what?" she pressed, catching the pained expression that flickered across his face.
"I.." he brushed past her, pacing the floor like Erza had. "In the cave.." He turned slightly, that tortured look in his eyes. "You died," he whispered, his face pale, "I saw it. You were...m-mutilated."
Lucy gasped realizing what he was sharing with her. She had seen a similar image as well, though it was Veleda's doing. What he was speaking of was Faux's terrifying vision. Before she could say anything, he had turned back to her, his eyes filled with unshed tears.
"I...I can't let that happen to you! You have to live. I don't want to imagine a life where you're not there, Luce. And that image—that dream—whatever it is...it can't come true!"
"You idiot!" Lucy whispered, "It was just a stupid vision. Magic. It wasn't real."
"It felt real!" he shouted, looking away as he wiped his eyes.
"Is that why you were avoiding me? Because you were concerned that this vision would happen?"
Natsu shook his head, "That's not all of it. I thought you'd try to protect me, and hurt yourself in the end. I can't have that. I couldn't live with myself if anything happened to you."
His eyes were steady and full of fear as he watched her with such emotion that it nearly tore Lucy apart. She closed her eyes, asking the question that had been bothering her for some time.
"Where did you go on that mission? With Wendy?" She asked as Natsu paced some more, his back to her.
"Huh? Oh," he grunted. "We took those two council members to the Eksheed. Gramps thought they'd be safe there. That one, the Queen with the one wing—that's Charle's mom."
Lucy nodded, she had suspected that much.
"They share the same gift—their visions. Makarov thought that she could protect them by predicting the enemy's moves. That way, the Council's secrets will remain safe or something. But, the only way to get there was with Happy and Charle," he stopped pacing, speaking to her over his shoulder, "That's why you couldn't go. There wasn't anyone to take you."
Lucy suddenly felt very foolish. She opened her mouth to apologize, but Natsu continued, "There was something else on that island..." His eyes narrowed as he reminisced, "but we didn't have time to look around." He looked at her, his gaze steady, "But she, too, told me that my vision may still come true. That you could—" he abruptly stopped talking, inhaling sharply and looking away.
Lucy hugged his collection to her chest more tightly, taking a step toward him. "It won't come true. They are visions. They can change. We will get through this. We will have our happy ending."
"Happy ending?" Natsu softly repeated as he stared at her, his eyes filled with longing and hope. "What if tomorrow is...it?"
"It won't be."
He shuddered as he thought about the revolting vision again, his former defeat returning. "Will you reconsider leaving?"
"No!" Lucy growled, her temper flaring.
"For me, Luce," he whispered his eyes pleading.
"Not even for you."
"If something were to happen to you," he cried, "I wouldn't be able to live with—"
~MATURE CONTENT~
The sound of rustling paper sliding over the floorboards was the only warning he had before she embraced him, wrapping her arms around his neck and forcefully pressing her lips against his. At first he resisted, mumbling her name against her lips, but she didn't let him talk. There would be no more talking. Her lips passionately crashed over his, her hands clawing at his hair as he tentatively returned her kiss. His hands relaxed, and she could feel their slight tremor as they hesitantly rested on her hips. Their kiss deepened as their momentary inexperience melted. He prodded her mouth open with his tongue and his grip on her hips tightened as he pulled her toward him. He took a hesitant step back, and they continued to move like that until his back hit the wall. She flung her arms around his neck as his kisses grew more fervent. Deeper. More needy. He groaned as she willingly responded, his own heavy breathing only serving to excite her further. His grip became firmer as he pulled her toward him, their hips crashing together. He gasped and she smiled against his lips, his naivety endearing, though hers wasn't much less. His lips explored her cheeks, her jawline, and her neck. She closed her eyes, leaning back and giving access to the sensitive skin. She felt him hesitate when he found that she was wearing the gift he had given her. She smiled, taken by surprised by his need as his mouth covered hers once again, his hands squeezing her. He growled into her mouth, squeezing her hips forcefully and spinning her around so that she was pressed against the wall.
Her shoulder blades knocked into the wall, and she was momentarily jolted from the bliss of their passionate embrace. This is wrong, Lucy! Wrong! Her inner voice told her. You shouldn't be doing this!
She pulled back, her cheeks burning from the heat gathering in her stomach as his hands roamed over her clothes as he struggled to control himself. She gasped.
"Luce?" he asked, his eyes searching her face. They were dazed as concern slowly crept into his features.
She stared at him, reveling at how attractive she found him in this state. This may very well be their last night together, and she silently made a refusal to worry about repercussions or impropriety.
"I'm fine!" she raspily replied, her hands roaming over his shoulders and to his chest.
Their lips quickly met again, and she felt empowered by his need. Her fingers hesitantly slid over his broad shoulders. As his kisses grew more fervent, his mouth wandering to places that excited her beyond words, she pushed his shirt open, reveling in his attention. His need. She pushed the fabric down his arms, and he momentarily released her, shrugging out of his shirt. She raised her lips to his, refusing to allow the kiss to break in fear that he would run from her again. She locked her fingers behind his head, pulling him to her. She could hear his breathing become shallow as he responded to her as she ground her hips into his. She knew that he was dangerously close to losing control of himself, and she fully anticipated pushing him to that point.
She raked her hands over his shoulders, his chest, his back. As he bit her earlobe, she let her eyes take in the pale flesh with its mottling of battle scars. Her fingers danced over them as they continued to explore the muscles of his torso. Her hands glided over his stomach, and she was oddly aroused as he gasped at her boldness.
"Luce, dammit!" he rasped against her, his breath hot. His hands slid to her shoulders, where they gently squeezed her as her fingers danced around his waist.
She was high off of the excitement she felt—of the reaction she elicited. Her fingertips dipped into the top of his pants, and he pressed against her forcefully—her shoulders digging into the wall. She gasped in pain, and he quickly pulled away. Unfazed, she continued to allow her hands to memorize the texture of his skin. He reached down and grabbed her hands, his grip weak. She easily slipped from his calloused fingers, continuing to toy with him. With a grunt of frustration, he grabbed her tiny wrists in his hands, pinning them above her head as he broke the kiss. He cursed under his breath as he slumped forward, his forehead against the wall next to her head. He could smell the scent of her hair and squeezed his eyes shut. It was all he could to control himself.
"We have to stop," he whispered as he attempted to catch his breath, his eyebrows drawn together as if he were in pain.
Lucy sighed as she felt his breath against her neck. It was delicious. "I don't want to."
"This...isn't right," he rasped in her ear, his voice pleading with her.
She ignored him, leaning forward despite her handicap, her lips brushing against his neck. She could hear his sharp intake of breath as she kissed the skin, dragging the tip of her tongue across his warmth.
"Lucy," he groaned, his voice husky with his desire, "I mean it."
"Are you telling me you don't want to?" she whispered, teasing his earlobe with her teeth. Those books she had been reading were quite accurate when it came to seducing a man. Quite easy, really.
He groaned, offering nothing as he held her wrists in one hand. He hit the wall with his other. "Dammit."
He pulled back, his expressions serious. She thought he looked adorable as his face was flushed and his hair in disarray. He stared at her for some time, slowly releasing his grip on her hands.
"What has gotten into you? Don't you realize..." he trailed off. What you're asking for? What you are doing to me?
She suddenly felt very self-conscious and silly. "I-I..." her mouth snapped shut as she avoided his stare. Was she being too bold? Did he not want this? She could feel the hot tears pricking the corners of her eyes. "What if tomorrow is..."
She dropped her chin in defeat, "If you don't want to...with me...I understand."
With each passing second, she began to feel more foolish. She refused to meet his gaze, her arms dropping to her sides. She gently attempted to push him away, but he resisted. She looked up at him, only to find him staring intently down at her.
"I'm sorry," she whispered, ashamed.
Without a word, he leaned down and claimed her lips with his own. The kiss was soft and gentle—the first real time he had kissed her. She reveled in the feeling as his other hand brushed her neck, his fingers curling around her neck. A few tears slid down her cheek as she returned the gesture, her hands on his shoulders. He broke away, his eyes closed as their forehead pressed together.
"How did you...learn that?" he grunted.
"Learn what?" Lucy's eyes snapped open as she looked up at him. He didn't answer, and she could see his discomfort.
"How to...make me so unable to control myself?" he mumbled.
So that was it? He was scared of not being able to restrain himself? She smiled at her realization, kissing his cheek, "I read a lot, dummy."
"Eh?" he pulled away, his disbelief on his face. "You can find that stuff...in books?"
Lucy's hand went to her hips as she glared at him defiantly, "Of course. But most of it is a woman's intuition!"
His brow furrowed as he looked at her. She tried to hide her knowing smirk at his genuine hesitation, "Don't tell me that you're uncomfortable? The Great Dragon Slayer Natsu Dragoneel is afraid of something?" She raised an eyebrow.
He pulled away, and she regretted her mockery, "I-I'm sorry!" He didn't say anything, his cheeks still red, though she was sure some of that was embarrassment. He looked hurt and she suddenly felt badly for her comment.
"I'm afraid of making you do something you don't want to," he quickly admitted, looking at the floor.
"You already know how I feel," she blurted, avoiding his surprised look as her ears burned. She grabbed his hands, pressing them against her chest in earnest. "So don't be afraid. If this is going to be the circumstances, then I couldn't be happier."
Her eyes glistened with tears as he stared at her, incredulous. She looked at the ground, saying nothing and waiting for everything.
"Are you...sure?" His voice was a soft whisper as he angled his head, watching her.
"Aren't you?" she asked, her voice wavering as she offered a shy grin. "You only live once, right?"
He responded with eager lips crushing hers as he his arms pinned her against the wall, his former reservations gone. She moaned as he hungrily kissed her neck. Her fingers instinctively hooked into his pants, and he growled as he grabbed her buttocks, lifting her up. She wrapped her legs around his waist as he pressed into her, the hardness of him against her made her gasp. His hands wandered along her waist and under her shirt, climbing higher and taking the fabric with it. She cursed under her breath, grabbing at her buttons and nearly ripping the shirt off. His mouth grazed her shoulder, and she dug her nails into his skin. He lifted her higher, his mouth wandering lower. She ran her fingers through his hair, tugging as his lips reached the top of her bra. He hesitated and she pulled his hair harder.
"I...don't...how do you get this thing off?" he muttered against her skin, his finger hooking under the clasps. Instead of waiting for an answer, he tugged, feeling satisfied by the sound of tearing fabric.
"That was...my favorite...bra," she complained, the words nearly failing her as his mouth distracted her thoughts.
"Sorry," he mumbled as she shrugged the straps off. His hands were gentle as he helped slide the satiny fabric off of her, and she squeezed her eyes shut so as not to see his reaction. He incoherently muttered as his mouth continued where it had left off, his other hand hesitantly and somewhat clumsily cupping her other breast as she nearly screeched in ecstasy when his fingers brushed over her nipple.
"Natsu!" she cried. He grabbed her hips pulling them against him as he pressed into her. "My...my bed!"
He looked up, lowering her into a hurried kiss as he held her to him, stumbling to the bed. He fell on top of her, supporting himself on his forearms as she pulled his face to hers. He broke the kiss, his excitement pressing into her thigh as his tongue traced inexperienced patterns over her skin. His mouth continued to roam as her hands tugged hair and her fingernails raked skin. She cried out as her body felt things she could only have imagined before this moment. With each cry, he grew more excited with his new discovery.
"Kiss me, dammit!" she demanded as he teased her breasts, the excitement welling inside her becoming too much to handle. He did as he was told and her hands deftly worked on the button of his pants. He groaned, pushing her hands away to remove his own pants. Soon, a very naked Natsu was on top of her as she did her best to not stare in appreciation of him. She could feel his erection against her, and her hands fluttered down to touch its hardness. He swore under his breath as he pushed her hands away for a second time, groaning into her neck.
"Woman, stop," he mumbled into her damp skin as he tugged her panties over her hips.
His palm pressed into her hip and she pushed against him so that she could feel his skin against hers. His fingers wandered down, and she moaned when he touched her, his hands tracing over the insides of her thighs. A fullness grew in her abdomen as his fingers drew closer, touching her hesitantly at first. She cried out as an unexpected wetness helped his fingers slide inside of her, the burning pain of being entered an afterthought. His excitement grew by her reaction and he enthusiastically experimented with different pressures and movements.
"Ah!" she cried, squeezing his shoulder forcefully and pushing his arm back down as he tried to stop, his mouth exploring her breast as his breathing became more ragged. "Don't..."
He smiled in satisfaction, his lips moving from her breast to her neck and then to her mouth as her cries became louder. He muffled her moans with his lips as she arched her back into him, her hands clawing at her sheets. His own desire grew as she begged him to never stop, not caring who heard her cries. As he grew more confident in his techniques, basing them on her reactions, her hands frantically grabbed at his torso. She pulled him to her, wanting to feel his skin against hers, to feel him inside of her—the burning desire in the pit of her stomach peaking.
"Now! Now, Natsu!" she hissed, "I want you, now!" She was nearly in a frenzy, the sensations too much for her to handle as her body shuddered from each touch, caress, and kiss.
"Are you...sure...Luce," he could barely manage to ask as she grabbed him, pulling him toward her. She wrapped her legs around his waist, raising herself toward him. "I don't want to hurt you..."
"Shut up!" she growled as she kissed him with such ferocity that he had to take a moment to control himself. "I...don't..care!"
She dug her nails into his shoulders as he hesitantly nudged her thighs apart, settling himself between them. Her eyes were glassy as she watched him from under heavy eyelids. He slowly entered her, watching her expression. A small smile of triumph tugged at her lips as she pulled him into her. He groaned, his eyes snapping shut as he fought to control the release that was nearly taking over him.
"You're so warm," he growled into her mouth, his thoughts much more candid than what he was sharing. How he had maintained control this long was beyond him. He had dreamed of this moment for so long he was having a difficult time believing it was coming true.
She was surprised at the lack of pain she felt as she dared to pull him into her. She whimpered into his shoulder at the shock of him insider of her and she could feel him hesitate. He gently pulled out, the move proving more satisfying than he had anticipated. She softly moaned her encouragement, her eyes closed as she reveled in the feeling. He pressed into her again, his own pleasure growing.
"Holy..shit," he hissed as he buried his face in her neck the smell of her damp skin and hair pushing him farther into his own ecstasy. He could feel her nails digging into his back with each push, the next growing more heated—deeper. She cried out as his pace quickened, raising her hips to meet him.
"I..I can't—" he gasped as the familiar yet foreign sensation took over. "Shit, Luce!"
She cried out at the oddly satisfying sensations as he dove deeper into her, bringing himself closer each time. Finally, with one last, shuddering push, he succumbed, pulling Lucy up to him as she raked her nails across his back. The combination of pleasure and pain was indescribable and he collapsed on top of her when he had given in to it—his awareness slowly returning as he held her to him, their skin slick and sticky. His heart thumped in his chest as he realized what had just happened—what they had done. He lifted his head to look at her. He was startled to find her with a contentedly dreamy smile on her face.
"Luce? Are you...alright?" he hesitantly asked, hoping he hadn't hurt her..
"Yes, silly," she murmured, her eyes closing as she laid under his weight, her breasts pressed into his chest. Her hair was splayed around her face and her cheeks rosy. She looked perfect.
"Are you...hurt?" he pressed, concern in his voice as he regained his composure, pushing himself up onto his forearms. He was afraid he was crushing her tiny frame. His eyes wandered over the curves of her breasts and hips. Perfect.
He felt her legs squeeze around his waist as her eyes fluttered opened. Her gaze lingered on his face as a coy smile played on her lips, "Where are you going, hmm?"
"Huh?" his eyes widened at this new, playful—and exceedingly naked—Lucy.
She glanced at her clock, her eyes lazily flickering to his face, "The night is still young, Natsu Dragoneel."
"I—uh," he stammered, confused by her challenging gaze and amused smile.
When her innuendo was not immediately recognized, she sighed. "Stupid boy," she murmured as she draped an arm around his neck. "Let me show you what I mean. Again."
