Hi! Got some first date feels for you this time, enjoy!

Natsu's heart still feels all warm and fuzzy the next day after, even the next two weeks, smile quirking his lips whenever he thinks about Lucy and their discovered mutual feelings.

He never thought this would happen for him. Let alone, an amazing woman like Lucy would actually like him back and all kinds of feelings swirl in his chest as thoughts of her constantly fill his mind, more than usual, as he goes through his routine of shifts. Of her bright smile and laugh, the feel of her soft, warm lips…

Natsu has to actively stop his brain from getting distracted, already affecting his focus at work that even Gray gives him a hard time. He just smiles and shrugs, wanting to keep the news to himself for a while.

He loves his texts and calls with Lucy, but he really wants to see her again. Things have been so busy at the station, he's hardly had a chance to even sleep, let alone try and ask her out. But he's been thinking about what he wants to do for her, a proper date, and the excited flutter in his chest.

Natsu got the cats comfy and already had to keep his heart in check on the way to the complex for this week's t-ball afternoon game today.

He got there a bit early with Igneel to set things up to distract himself from said distracting thoughts about Lucy, but it doesn't last long as soon as he hears a young voice calling his name. He turns to see Kade eagerly running over, and the very woman on his mind making her way behind him at a calmer pace.

Looking beautiful as ever, that bright smile making his heart all warm and fuzzy all over again.

Natsu laughs and takes a knee to catch Kade in his arms in a tight hug.

"Hey, kiddo!"

"Natsu! I missed you!"

"I'm sorry we haven't hung out much lately, but I missed you too," Natsu chuckles warmly, pulling back to ruffle the boy's hair. "Both of you." He stands and shares a soft look with Lucy. "Hi, Luce," he says, grin widening as he leans in for a warm hug that lasts a little longer than it should've, but he couldn't help it.

"Hi, Natsu," Lucy says softly, close to his ear, sending shivers down his spine as she hugs him back tightly.

Natsu clears his throat as they pull back before his heart can get away from him too much again, running a hand through his hair. "So, um, you guys got here a little early too, huh?" he grins.

"Yeah, well, a little someone was so excited to see you as soon as I told him we'd get to see you today and bouncing off the walls so I figured we'd just get a head start," Lucy chuckles. "Barely got a chance to grab the bags before he was rushing me out the door."

"Is that right, bud?" Natsu laughs, hugging the boy to his side.

Kade giggles happily, hugging around Natsu's waist. "Always excited for baseball!"

Natsu shares another look with Lucy and they laugh. "Me too, and since you came in first for being early today, wanna help out uncle Igneel over there finish setting up the field?"

Kade agrees eagerly and Natsu calls Igneel over. They all happily say hi to him too and Igneel takes Kade over to set up the bases on the field.

"So, how've you been, Luce?" Natsu helps her set her bags on the bleachers behind them and takes a seat beside her.

"I've been good, work's been busy, but guess that's a good thing," she sighs with a grin. "And that one keeps me plenty busy too." Lucy nods towards the scene in front of them.

Natsu catches Lucy's fond, loving look as she watches Kade hopping onto the bases Igneel set down and running before Igneel could catch him, giggling brightly. Natsu's heart warms and his own soft smile crosses his lips.

"I bet. Kid already keeps me on my toes, I can imagine for you."

"That's for sure," she says, sharing a laugh with him. "How've you been? You mentioned the station's been keeping you busy too?"

"Yeah, they've had me on double shifts a lot the past two weeks," Natsu sighs roughly. " Which was why Dad had to fill in for me here last weekend. Sorry I missed hangin' out with you guys," he chuckles.

"Hey, I completely understand. Don't worry," Lucy reassured warmly. "It was hard to get the pout off Kade's face at first, but of course was fine once he was out there on the field and was all smiles like today," she chuckles.

Natsu laughs fuller. "I'm glad."

"I missed you too though," Lucy adds softly after a quiet moment, nudging her shoulder with Natsu's, fingers lightly brushing his where their palms were on the bench between them.

He smiles sheepishly, feeling warmth on his cheeks as he rubs the back of his neck with his other hand. Still unused to the new affectionate touches between them that set his heart aflame, but he craves them.

Natsu gives her a soft squeeze to her fingers in return. "Hey, um, now that things are slowing down a bit, I was gonna- know we talked about it a little, but I, uh-" Get it together, c'mon! The things she makes him feel. He takes a steadying breath. "I've been meaning to ask you, did you wanna go on that date soon? I've been planning some things to do it right this time," he asks, heart bright and hopeful.

Lucy's expression softens. "I'd really like that," she says warmly.

"Y-Yeah?" Natsu smiles wider. "Is tomorrow night good? Finally got a Sunday off again."

"Sounds perfect," she grins, squeezing his hand again.

"It's a date then," Natsu smiles wider, an excited flutter already sparking in his chest.

More people start arriving, filling the bleachers and Kade runs back over to them with Igneel.

"Alright, ready, bud?" Natsu stands and ruffles the boy's hair.

"The kid's always ready with that boundless energy that already makes me tired," Igneel laughs fully, but a fond look in his eyes.

Kade happily agrees with a shout, Lucy pulling him over to fix his uniform and give him his hat. Natsu watches fondly as Lucy presses a couple kisses to Kade's cheek, making him giggle and try to squirm away.

"Have fun with Natsu, sweetheart." Kade gives her a bright toothy grin in return and hops over to Natsu eagerly.

"We will!" Natsu smiles.

He and Igneel make some announcements and start getting the rest of the kids gathered on the field soon after.

"So, did my eyes deceive me or were you and Lucy having a bit of a moment over there?" Igneel teases as they sort out the gear in the dugout. "Any new developments you care to share?"

Natsu feels his neck flush. It's true but he doesn't want to give his dad more to tease him over. Just yet anyway.

It was all so new, he didn't want to mess anything up.

"Nothin' much," Natsu murmurs.

"Mhm, sure." Igneel winks.

Natsu rolls his eyes with a shake of his head, trying to hold back the smile that was twitching on his lips.

The game starts and he can't help the glances he takes over to the stands where Lucy is during it and the bright smile they share is worth anything.

The kids all have fun, never bother to keep score in t-ball, and before he knows it, they're all returning to their families and Natsu's walking back towards the bleachers with an excited Kade talking his ear off about all his favorite moments.

Natsu smiles wide, taking in all the boy's excitement and matching it.

Kade hops over into Lucy's arms when they reach her.

"Hey, there you are!" Kade giggles when she hugs him. "Definitely had fun, huh?"

"Yup!"

"Good, but now let's get home and wash all that fun off you," Lucy chuckles. Kade pouts when she brushes the dirt off his uniform and shares an amused look with Natsu.

She stands and moves to pick up their bags, but Natsu beats her to it. "I got 'em, Luce," he insists, tugging them onto his shoulder and she thanks him warmly.

They start to make their way back to the parking lot and the boy runs little but runs ahead when his friend Noah runs up to him for a bit before Claire is waving him over to their car. Natsu and Lucy wave at her too.

"You clearly had fun out there too today," she huffs another laugh and reaches out and brushes some of the line chalk Natsu didn't even realize he had in his hair.

"Always do," he laughs, ruffling a hand through it.

Natsu helps Lucy load their things into the car, getting Kade situated in his seat after he gives the boy a tight hug.

"Another good game today, bud. You're gettin' better and better!"

Kade's expression brightens. "Really?"

"Yup! Gonna be a pro in no time," Natsu grins brightly.

"Awesome!"

Natsu shares a laugh with Lucy, turning towards her, leaning against the edge of the open door.

"Did you have fun too, Luce?"

"Of course. It's always fun to see you try and keep up with the kids."

Natsu gasps dramatically, hand over his chest. "Always choose to hurt me."

"Stop," Lucy laughs with a shake of her head and playful shove to his shoulder.

"Alright, alright. I'll let you get going," he chuckles.

"Bye, Natsu!" Kade cheers with a wave from his seat.

"Bye, kiddo. Get some good sleep!" Natsu reaches in to ruffle his hair one more time for good measure before helping close his door and walk around to Lucy's side with her.

"See you tomorrow? Same time around six?" Natsu asks, growing an excited smile.

"Sounds perfect. Bye, Natsu." Lucy quickly leans in for a chaste kiss on Natsu's cheek before he fully realizes it. She gives him a bright smile over her shoulder and moves to get into her seat and start the car.

Natsu raises his hand in a delayed half-wave as she drives off, his other hand cupping the spot she touched. A toothy smile breaks out a moment later.

He couldn't wait.

Natsu wakes up just as excited the next morning at the thought of tonight's plans.

He plays with the cats after their breakfast and then heads over to his parents to help Igneel with some work in the backyard he told Natsu about yesterday at the game.

"Natsu!"

He looks over and smiles when he sees his younger sister, Wendy, hopping off the porch to greet him when he steps out of his truck, dark hair shining purple under the sunlight.

"Hey, Wendy!" Natsu pulls her in for a tight hug, lifting her off the ground a bit. He laughs at her bright giggle, setting her down and patting her head fondly. "Hmm, don't think you've grown that much since the last time I saw you, kiddo."

Wendy scoffs with that classic teenage roll of her eyes, making Natsu cackle.

"Shut up! I'll have you know I'm five foot now, and I'm not a kid," she huffs with a playful shove of his arm.

"Really? Wooow, that's pretty tall," he smirks, laughing more when she pouts and crosses her arms. "Ok, ok. I got a surprise for you actually." Natsu moves to open the back door and bring out the carrier that immediately started meowing.

She gasps. "Kitties!"

"Know I've said I'd bring them over soon, but finally got a chance. Here's Ollie, officially, and Happy tagged along," he grins. "But let's bring 'em inside before they try to escape." Natsu goes ahead through the door, setting the crate on the coffee table in the living room. "Yo!"

"Hey! Thought I heard you outside," Igneel grins brightly, coming around through the kitchen.

"Hi, hon!" Natsu's mom, Grace, pulls him in for a warm hug after.

"Hey, Mom," Natsu smiles, hugging her back tightly, letting the warm affection surround him.

"It's been too long! I know you've been busy," Grace sighs. "Are you taking care of yourself? Eating enough?" She gives him a playful pinch to his cheek.

"Yes, Mom," Natsu grumbles, swatting her hand away and chuckling.

"You know he'd never not eat enough," Igneel smirks.

"Yeah, yeah," Natsu rolls his eyes.

"Natsu brought the kitties!" Wendy cheers, already with Ollie in her arms purring away.

"Aw, she's so much cuter than the pictures," Grace gushes, scratching behind Ollie's ears, getting a mew from her. "Of course we still love you, Happy." The other cat is already out of the crate too and up on the tower his parents put up in the corner of the living room too.

"Well, now that they're all occupied, let's go get started," Igneel laughs, leading Natsu to the back yard with a clap on his back.

Their backyard is small, but cozy and Natsu spent many days out here growing up.

Igneel had been working on rebuilding the back deck, but his mom has been telling Natsu Igneel's knees have been hurting him more lately and needed some help.

His dad was the stubborn type of course and didn't admit it when Natsu asked him about it at the game yesterday, but Natsu could see it. His slower movements when he got up, flashes of pain across his face when he thought no one noticed.

So, Natsu offered to come help today, for the sake of working on the deck, not because Igneel needed it of course. It's been a while since Natsu's visited like this too, so it makes him happy to spend some time with them regardless.

"So, have you talked to your doctor about treatment? Has it been getting better? Natsu asks, hammering in some pieces of wood by the stairs.

Igneel grumbled when Natsu first brought it up earlier, but didn't put up much of a fight when Natsu took over the heavier work.

"I get some injections, but may have to have surgery if things don't get better," Igneel sighs, wincing a little as he settles into one of the chairs on the grass by Natsu.

Natsu pauses, chest aching with concern. "Really? That's a pretty major thing."

"I know. I appreciate the concern, but don't worry about all that right now," Igneel reassures, waving the thought off. "Hasn't taken me out completely yet," he grins, but Natsu could see the tired lines behind it.

"Alright, alright," Natsu huffs a laugh, getting back to his task. He knew his dad would put up a tough front for as long as he could.

They catch up for a while longer, with some laughs and teasing and by the middle of the afternoon, they'd made good progress on the deck and pergola above.

"Good idea with all this by the way," Natsu huffs, flopping onto the chair next to him with a long drink of water, running a hand through his damp hair as they admire their work.

"Yeah, been needing a good outdoor space to relax and bbq now that summer's coming up. You do good work." Igneel gives Natsu's shoulder a firm squeeze.

"Yeah, yeah. Some help you were," Natsu teases, with a shove back to his shoulder.

Igneel laughs that loud, full laugh of his. "C'mom, let's head in and help get some lunch together."

Natsu helps him up and inside, where his mom and Wendy are already starting on some sandwiches in the kitchen.

They go and wash up and start to help out too, Natsu making his own stacked sandwich and they all sit around the table. Natsu smiles softly at the sight, everyone laughing and together like this. He really has missed it, and can't help but think how having Lucy here too would make it perfect.

Natsu settles on the couch with Wendy after as his parents go sort through something in the garage. Ollie's happily playing with the toys she was tossing around.

Happy was just content to curl up on Natsu's lap and he smiles at the scene.

"Are you staying for dinner later too?" Wendy asks, giggling at Ollie's determination to catch the dangling string.

"Oh, I have some plans actually," Natsu smiles wider, fingers brushing over Happy's head softly, feeling the vibration of his purrs.

"Looks like they're good plans?" Wendy grins, eyes brightening. "With who?"

Natsu chuckles. "Well, that's a secret."

"Aw, c'mon! You have to tell me," Wendy insists, scooting closer on the couch.

"I don't have'ta tell you anything," he teases.

Wendy pouts and pesters him a bit more until he groans. She wasn't about to let it go.

"Ok, ok! Sheesh," he chuckles, shaking his head. "Well, uh, you know my friend Lucy I've talked about?"

"Yes! Her and Kade sound so nice! Sad Mom and Dad have even met her before I have," Wendy pouts again.

"You would if you would come outta your room and join us at the baseball games on weekends," Natsu huffs a laugh before taking a deep breath, leaning in a bit closer. "But fine, you're the first one I'm tellin' so gotta keep it between us, alright?" She nods eagerly, ready for the gossip. "We're kinda going on a date later," he grins sheepishly, but warmth swelling in his chest.

Wendy gasps. "Really? Oh, that's amazing!"

"Shh!" He makes sure his parents hadn't come in from the garage yet. "It's… it's all so new, I don't wanna tell everyone yet. Or mess anything up. Especially tonight, I already messed up the day I confessed to her," Natsu murmurs, rubbing the back of his now warm neck.

"I can tell you liked her just from all the ways you talked about her," Wendy says, giving him a knowing smile. "It always felt different from your other friends. Don't be dramatic, I'm sure you didn't miss anything up if you're going on a date. Don't worry, you don't have to be perfect. I'm sure she appreciated everything, and I know she likes you for you." She reaches over to give him a reassuring pat on his shoulder.

Natsu breathes another laugh. "Since when did you become the one with all the good advice?" He ruffles her hair and laughs brighter at her squeak of fuss over her hair.

"Anyways," Wendy huffs. "I'm happy for you, and you have to let me know how it goes! Now we really have to meet her!"

"Yeah, yeah, soon I promise," Natsu grins.

"Oh, what are ya promising and how do we get in on it?" They look over to see Igneel smirking beside them.

"Natsu promised to take me shopping to buy me more clothes, but none for you sorry," Wendy teases playfully, looking pleased with herself as she cuddles Ollie.

"Aw, really? I had a whole list of things he could get me too," Igneel sighs, leaning dramatically against the back of the couch they were on.

Grace comes up behind him, shaking her head. "You have more than enough stuff, leave them alone," she laughs, turning towards Natsu. "Are you staying for dinner later too?"

"I was tellin' Wendy I have some plans tonight so probably gonna head out," Natsu says, chuckling as Happy hops up from his lap to the back of the couch to arch his back into Igneel's pets. So spoiled.

"Oh, with the group?"

"Somethin' like that," he grins, sharing a look with Wendy. "But I'll be back for dinner soon."

"Good. We'll hold you to that," Grace says, pulling him in for another hug when he stands. "Dad gets to see you most weekends with the games, but we miss you."

Natsu smiles warmly. "Miss you guys too. I promise to visit more."

"A promise is a promise, can't back out now!" Wendy chirps, hopping over to hug his side.

"Alright, alright," Natsu laughs, hugging her back. "Guess I'll go get the cats settled before tonight."

"Aw, they can stay! I'll watch them for you," Wendy insists with pleading eyes.

"Well, Happy does look pretty comfy already."

Said cat was now curled up on Igneel's lap where he'd moved to the armchair, making Natsu chuckle. Ollie was still cuddled in Wendy's arms too. Made the decision pretty easy.

"We got a bunch of new toys and treats for them too!"

Natsu was never good at saying no to that happy expression of hers either.

"Guess it's settled then. I'll pick 'em up tomorrow," Natsu grins.

"Had to know that would happen as soon as she saw the little cutie," Grace laughs warmly.

They all share in it and Natsu says his goodbyes. His mom sends him off with some food anyway and they wave from the driveway as he heads back home.

Warmth spreads through his chest, grateful for the happy days he gets to spend with his family.

Things weren't always easy when he was younger, but they worked hard to get to where they are now.

He was then faced with another issue of what he should wear tonight after he took his time getting ready with a soothing shower.

Running a hand through his damp hair as he ruffles through his closet.

He'd told Lucy something casual so they'd be comfortable, so he just went with that.

Comfy, faded jeans, black shirt, thicker dark olive green flannel shirt jacket, and his trusty brown boots.

Hope Lucy thinks this looks ok. He thinks to himself as he takes one more look in the mirror, glances at his watch, and throws on some cologne for good measure before he heads out.

Natsu takes the familiar roads to her house and soon enough, he's taking a deep steadying breath when he gets to Lucy's door, gripping the flowers in his other hand and knocking. Glad he remembered to stop at the store to get them before he went home.

He hopes she likes them, it's not too much right? Maybe he should've gotten something more or-

The opening door stops his thoughts, taking his breath away instead.

Lucy's a vision before him. Also casual, but effortlessly beautiful as always.

Her own black jeans, mustard yellow sweater that almost melted into her dark golden hair, under a lighter color denim jacket.

"Hi, Natsu."

Her warm voice brought him back to the moment, taking in her bright honeyed eyes and brighter smile, letting the sight settle the fluttering in his chest.

"H-Hey, Luce!" He can't help the bright, eager smile that he feels stretch across his face, adding to the warmth in his chest. "Oh, um, these are for you."

He hands her the flowers, liking the way her eyes lit up.

"That's so sweet of you. How did you know sunflowers were my favorite, thank you," Lucy grins brightly, leaning in to give him a warm hug before pulling his arm to follow her. "Come in! I just have to finish getting my things." Natsu happily follows her inside, floral scent of her hair lingering as he shuts the door for her and watching fondly as she gently places the flowers in some water. "Claire had an emergency tonight so Levy is on her way to watch Kade."

"Hope everything's ok?" Natsu asks with some concern.

"Yeah, Noah just came down with a bit of a cold and she didn't want Kade to catch anything."

"Ah, ok," he sighs. "Speaking of, where's the rascal?"

"He's outside playing after he broke a lamp playing catch inside this morning," Lucy huffs, a bit irritated, but fondness still in her eyes.

"I've been there," Natsu chuckles.

"I'm sure," Lucy laughs. "He's gonna be excited now. Kade, Natsu's here," she calls out louder towards the back door.

Sure enough, they hear quick steps down the short hall next to the kitchen and Kade appears, bounding over to them in the living room. All bright smiles and happy eyes.

"Natsu!"

Natsu catches Kade's tight hug at his waist, chest swelling with affection.

"Hey, bud!"

"Are you hanging out here?" the boy asks, hazel eyes pleading up at him.

Natsu chuckles, running a hand through the boy's wild hair. "Well, I owe your mom somethin' good for dinner out tonight, but we can read another bedtime story when we come back ok?"

Kade pouts a little at first, but brightens at the offer. "Ok!"

Natsu breathes a laugh and looks over to share a warm look with Lucy.

"Here, let's clean you up a bit before you have fun with Aunt Levy and Uncle Gajeel," she says.

"Oh yeah! Mom says I could help with his cool truck again!" Kade says over at Natsu brightly.

"Sounds awesome, kiddo," Natsu grins.

Lucy leads Kade over to the kitchen sink to wash his hands. Natsu sits over at the dining table, smiling fondly at the scene of Kade giggling as Lucy brushes his cheeks with a towel after he'd splashed too much water on himself, that bright smile still etched on her lips.

The love between them is always palpable and it makes his heart swell.

Lucy looks over and her eyes catch his. Her expression softens a little, soft flush appearing on her cheeks under the warm kitchen lights. Still effortlessly beautiful.

Natsu only smiles wider, scratching his cheek.

Kade bounds over to his room after and both of them chuckle at the boy's boundless energy.

"So, I may have had to tell Levy about tonight after all her pestering and by extension, Gajeel," Lucy laughs softly, coming back around the counter and joining him at the table.

A lock of golden hair falls into her eyes and Natsu itches to push it back, but he didn't want to seem too eager or push anything too quick for her.

"It's cool. My sister Wendy got the same thing outta me when I was over my parents earlier," Natsu adds to her laugh with a shake of his head. "But they're the only ones who know so far, before everyone else gets in our business," he grins brightly before it softens, looking into those captivating eyes. "If that's ok? I wanted to enjoy this between us for a bit before everyone knows." His fingers twitch, and he gives into the urge to reach out and hold her hand.

Her expression softens. "Of course. I was thinking the same, because as nice as everyone else is, it's enough with just Levy wanting to know every little detail," she breathes a laugh. "Just us for now is perfect."

Lucy squeezes his hand and Natsu smiles wider. "Good, and I'm… I've really been looking forward to tonight."

"Me too." Lucy laces their fingers together, with such a warm expression he has to swallow thickly, skin tingling at her touch. "Hopefully the universe is a bit kinder to us today and let the restaurant be open," she says after a moment, a playful smile on her lips.

"Don't worry, I took steps to make sure it does this time!"

They share another laugh and soon there's another knock on Lucy's door.

"Oh, that must be them." Lucy moves to open the door and sure enough, Levy's on the other side and bounds in to give Lucy a hug.

"Hi! Hey, Natsu!"

Natsu laughs as she gives him a hug too.

Gajeel walks in behind with a calmer pace and a wave.

"Oh my god, look at you guys! I'm so happy for you!" Levy gushes, tugging on Natsu's sleeve and pulling him closer to Lucy.

"Lev, nothing's even happened yet," Natsu chuckles, his neck warming a little at her attention.

"I know, I know, but you both finally realized what we've all been seeing and that's huge!"

"Yeah, didn't think you had it in ya," Gajeel smirks, crossing his arms.

"Yeah, whatever. It was worth it," Natsu grumbles, expression softening when he catches Lucy's gaze.

They share a soft smile and she calls Kade over again.

The boy bounds back over and gives Levy and Gajeel an excited hug first, and it's funny to watch tall, brooding Gajeel melt a little whenever he's around Kade like this. Natsu smirks a little at that.

"Ok, ok. Off you go, you two," Levy insists. "We're going out for our own dinner aren't we, Kade?"

"Yeah! In the big, cool truck!" the boy and those bright hazel eyes exclaim.

They all share a laugh at that and Lucy goes over to give Kade a hug. "Now you be good and have fun, ok? Natsu and I will be back soon," she says with a fond hand through his hair.

"We will!"

Lucy chuckles and turns to Levy. "Thanks again for this, I'm sorry it was such late notice."

"Hey, it's ok! Like I said on the phone, we're always happy to help," Levy reassures with a squeeze to Lucy's arm. "You guys just go have fun."

"Alright, will do," she laughs as they say their goodbyes and head out.

Natsu holds the passenger door open for her when they get to his truck. "You look really beautiful tonight, Luce. I mean, you always do, but y'know, more than- not that I mean-" Natsu's neck instantly warms at his rambling, putting a hand to the back of it. "I'm messin' things up already," Natsu huffs.

"You haven't, don't worry," Lucy chuckles softly, stepping closer to grasp the edges of his jacket. Close enough to surround himself with the floral warmth of her hair. "It's sweet, thank you. You look very cute too."

Natsu grins toothily, feeling brave and stepping closer into her space. "Only cute? Not ruggedly tough and handsome?"

Lucy laughs a little brighter then acts like she's in deep thought with fingers to her chin. "Hmm, think that may be a little much."

Natsu gasps dramatically as she hops into the passenger seat.

"That hurt deep, Luce," he pouts, feeling a pull on his jacket.

"Alright, Alright. Very handsome."

Lucy brings him closer and kisses his cheek. Lips soft and warm, making his skin tingle

"Better?"

There's a soft flush on her cheeks, bit of a shy, playful smile on her lips and it takes a moment for Natsu's brain to catch up.

"Y-Yeah, much," he rasps, a toothy grin widening before he goes around to hop into his seat. "Glad you agree."

"Shut up, you," Lucy laughs, pushing his shoulder.

Natsu just cackles and enjoys her happy expression as he starts up the truck and heads out.

The drive has more warm laughs, Natsu trying to sing along to whatever was on the radio. Mostly to keep that bright smile on Lucy's face.

Even though he called the restaurant this morning, Natsu's relieved when he sees more cars in this lot than the one they tried last time.

"Alright here we are! Looks promising," Natsu grins.

Natsu hops out of the truck and quickly moves to her side to open the door for her, offering his hand.

"Miss," he smirks.

"Wow, such a gentleman, thank you," Lucy laughs brightly, taking his hand as she steps out and he closes the door behind her.

"Only the best for you."

Natsu soaks in more of Lucy's warm laughter, letting it swell in his chest as she hooks her arm through his and he leads them over towards the entrance.

"I haven't been to this part of town yet. So pretty, everything by the water," Lucy says, admiring the scene around them.

And it really was. A collection of quaint shops and restaurants nestled by the lake, he'd been here a few times but now, with the beginnings of the setting sun and Lucy beside him, it felt more than perfect.

"It's pretty cool. Glad we saved the visit for a special day like this," Natsu grins warmly, holding her arm closer.

Lucy just smiles brightly up at him that makes him feel all fuzzy and he almost forgets where they're going until they arrive in front of the large solid wood door.

Natsu manages to get them inside though, just in time for the reservation and soon they're seated by a table near the large window that overlooks the thick trees and large lake.

"Wow, this view is worth it in itself," Lucy awes over the view beside them.

"I thought so too. The place I originally wanted to take you to was still closed, but I remembered this one and made sure to call them before to make sure we'd be good, hence the reservation," Natsu laughs.

"Ah, that's smart."

"Well, it's been a while. I was due for a good idea soon."

The sound of Lucy's bright laughter makes his heart swell again, a toothy grin on his face.

The waiter comes around soon after, introducing themselves happily and hands them some water and menus.

"Mm, everything sounds good," Natsu murmurs as they look over their menus, his stomach grumbling already. "But think I'm gonna go with a nice big steak," he grins, eager.

"As good as that sounds, this cajun chicken pasta sounds better."

"Oh, that does! Hm, maybe we should just get one of everything just to be safe."

Natsu laughs with her as she shakes her head, giving him a fond look that warms his chest.

Their waiter comes by again and they end up going all in and soon they're surrounded with a couple appetizers to start.

"Mm, if these are good, I can't wait for our food," Natsu murmurs around the flavorful bite he took.

"Have to say I agree," Lucy huffs a soft laugh. "Oh, I keep meaning to ask you, you mentioned your sister earlier, and a little before a couple times, is she younger or older?" Lucy asks, taking a sip of her drink.

Natsu clears his throat after his own drink. "Oh, she's younger. Sixteen and a pain," he smiles toothily when Lucy laughs at the roll of his eyes.

"I'm sure you guys had fun growing up then," she chuckles.

"You could say that," Natsu huffs a laugh, then his expression shifts. Memories of his past filtering back, thrumming under his skin and making his chest tighten. It always made him uncomfortable to talk about and remember, but he wants to share this piece of it with her. "Although, uh, we didn't fully grow up together. 'Cause I'm actually… well, I'm adopted," Natsu admits with a hand through his hair.

"Oh, really?" Lucy's eyes are curious, but kind and warm. No hint of judgement or anything like he's dealt with before, and it soothes that bit of ache in his chest.

"Yeah, so I don't really remember my birth parents. They apparently passed when I was really young and then I got stuck in the system for a long time. Thrown into different homes and everything for years," he murmurs with a sigh, fingers playing with the edge of his cup, trying not to think about all those years he felt lost in countless shitty, empty feeling homes. "Thought that was gonna be it for me, since I was getting older and most people only want kids, but then Igneel and Grace found me when I was twelve," he smiles softly, fonder, his chest warm.

"I'm sure that must've been hard," Lucy says softly. "I'm sorry I brought it up if you don't want to talk about it." She reaches over to give his hand a gentle squeeze again.

There's some guilt in those honeyed eyes and that makes Natsu's heart hurt more than his thoughts. He didn't want to be the reason for that.

"Hey, that's ok." Natsu shifts his hand and laces their fingers together to give her a reassuring squeeze. "I wanted to. I don't mind sharing with you," he smiles warmly. "Things were still hard at first and of course I didn't make it easy, but started getting better and then… I'll bore you with the rest another time," he chuckles. He didn't want to get too deep and pour out too much on her, but he was feeling better that he eased the concerned look in her eyes.

"I'm sure it's not boring," she chuckles softly too. "But I'm always here for you if you do."

Natsu's expression softens again, nodding since he didn't trust the emotion behind the lump in his throat. He definitely felt like he didn't deserve her friendship, or more, but he would always be so grateful for her.

"I'll always be here for you too," he promises with another warm squeeze to her hand. "How about you? I don't think you've mentioned any siblings?"

"No, I don't have any," she sighs with a bit of a sad smile. "Sometimes I wondered if I was missing out on all the fun that I'd heard siblings could be, but then it was enough dealing with my messy family on their own." A flicker of something deeper crosses her expression, but she shakes it away and chuckles softly.

Natsu understands and doesn't want to push anything. "Yeah, totally," he nods. "Siblings can be fun, but definitely have that annoying knack to want to be involved in everything you do every day, so maybe you didn't really miss too much," he grins warmly.

Lucy laughs softly again, and his chest eases with the brighter look in those honeyed eyes. "True. Although, that doesn't sound too much different from Kade, so."

"Hey, you may be onto something," Natsu laughs a bit fuller, giving her hand one more squeeze before the waiter comes back with more of their plates a couple moments after, both happily digging into their dishes.

"Mm! This was definitely the right choice," Lucy murmurs around a bite of her pasta.

Natsu was almost done with his perfect, flavorful steak but he could make some room. "I gotta test that to be sure." He quickly reaches over and pierces the last of her chicken with his fork and tosses it into his mouth.

"Hey!"

"The spice really is good. Ok, it passes," Natsu smirks around his bite.

"So mean," Lucy pouts. "Just for that-"

She reaches over and steals the last piece of his own steak before he realizes it, a satisfied look in her eye. "Yours passes the taste test too."

"Eh- hey, that's not fair!"

"You started it," Lucy giggles.

Oh well, he'd give anything for that sight anyway.

"You're lucky I was practically done," Natsu pouts playfully.

"Sure, sure. We'll just have to come back soon and get more."

Natsu catches a deeper look behind the teasing in her eyes.

She wants to do this again with him? Butterflies erupt in his chest again at the thought.

"We definitely can," he grins brightly and goes with his heart. "I'd be happy to take you out again." Even though it makes him feel like he just took a leap off a cliff.

"Sounds like a plan. I've had a lot of fun tonight so far," Lucy says, Natsu catching her soft shy smile as she tucks some hair behind her ear.

It's so pretty and endearing, Natsu has to collect himself for a moment.

"T-That's, um- I'm glad. I have too," he rasps, feeling a little breathless. "It's always a fun time with you. I'm sorry it took me a while to get us here, but you're worth everything."

"So are you."

They share a soft look and more warm laughs carry them through the rest of the dinner before Natsu pays and they're getting ready to head out.

"Well, this place definitely made up for our lack of luck last time."

"It sure did," Natsu laughs brightly as they start walking along the sidewalk outside the restaurant. He battles with himself when their fingers keep brushing against each other.

Should he? Shouldn't he? They were holding hands a bit at dinner, so it shouldn't be this big of a deal, right? So, he should.

When their fingers catch again, Natsu laces their fingers together and gives her a soft squeeze. The act still makes butterflies erupt in his stomach every time.

His heart swells at the warm fond smile she gives him, pulling herself closer to his side.

Natsu's smile grows, he feels so lucky.

"There's some shops around here if you wanna walk around some more? Think there's a good crepe one next door if you want some dessert?"

"Sounds perfect, such a nice night out today," Lucy grins.

Natsu takes in everything about her, letting the warm affection flow through him.

"Yeah it is."

They check out a few shops. One of them being a store that sold any game you could think of, arcade type, board type, video game type, and Natsu couldn't resist walking in and trying out a few they had on display. He got frustrated when he couldn't even win once, but Lucy's bright amused laugh made it worth it. He ends up getting one he thinks they would enjoy playing with Kade and his heart swells and feels all fuzzy all over again at the affectionate look Lucy gives him.

He gets a couple crepes for them once they reach the end, and they find a good spot on a bench, illuminated by warm light posts beside them that has a great view of the lake, ripples of water sparkling under the moonlight.

Natsu takes a big bite of the chocolate one he got and sighs in content at the flavor on his tongue.

"Natsu," Lucy giggles. "You're getting the powder all over you." She reaches over to brush the powdered sugar from his chest.

"Oh, sorry. Did you want some?" he smirks playfully, leaning over to give her a messy sugar coated kiss to her cheek.

"Hey!" she giggles, trying to lean away.

Natsu only laughs, wrapping his arm around her shoulders to keep her close and continues pressing kisses to her cheek for a few more moments until they're both leaning against each other catching their breath.

"Did you have enough," Lucy huffs, pulling back and cleaning off her now flushed cheek. She narrows her eyes at him playfully, wide smile starting to quirk her lips.

Natsu's heart feels light and warm, wanting to always make sure she keeps that happy expression.

"Hm, maybe one more," he grins, reaching over to curl some of her hair behind her ear. He pauses as their gazes lock, thumb brushing along her jaw, along the bottom seam of her lip, craving to give into the urge to kiss her, but not wanting to push to quickly. "Is this ok?" he rasps, feeling his heart pounding in his chest.

"It's always ok." Her expression softens, leaning into his palm before she closes the distance herself and presses her lips against his.

The touch surprises him a little, but he quickly melts into it, palm shifting to the back of her neck to pull her a little closer and kissing her back fully.

His heart wants to leap from his chest again, mixed in with the flutters of excitement as she grips the edges of his jacket.

The kiss is slow and tender but feels just as amazing as the first time.

He realizes he must've said that last part out loud when Lucy pulls back and gives him a warm, amused look.

"Well, I-I've never done this or felt this way about anyone before so of course it means a lot and I-" Natsu rasps. "I mean, that was my first kiss… with you, before, but I couldn't have pictured sharing it with anyone else," Natsu admits softly, thumb brushing over the back of her hand with his other one as his neck warms a little, but couldn't regret allowing himself to be vulnerable and honest with her. "I just don't wanna mess anything up. You mean too much to me to mess this up." His chest aches sharply at the thought.

"You're so sweet, but like I've said, you haven't messed anything up yet." Lucy's expression softens, palm cupping the side of his neck as her thumb brushes along his jaw. "This has been the only kiss that's mattered to me."

Natsu takes in the way the content affection swells in his heart fully, smiling warmly, nodding as he leans in to kiss her softly again, both smiling into it.

They spend a bit longer just talking, Natsu gives her his jacket when Lucy gets cold and rests her head on his shoulder as he continues to hold her close, content to enjoy the early spring night and deciding to head back before it gets too late.

Levy welcomes them back happily as soon as they walk in. "Kade really tried to stay up for his bedtime story with you guys, but after his bath he knocked out as soon as his head hit the pillow," she giggles.

"Aw, that's ok. I figured he would," Lucy chuckles. "Thanks so much again for everything, Lev." She pulls her friend in for a hug.

"Of course! We love you guys, always here for anything you need," Levy reassures. "But more importantly, how did the first date go?!" She insists, tugging on Lucy's arm, eyes pleading and bright, making Natsu chuckle with a shake of his head.

Lucy laughs softly, looking over and sharing a warm look with Natsu.

"It was very good and that's all you're getting right now."

Levy groans with a pout as Lucy laughs again.

"C'mon, shrimp. You can get all your details at work tomorrow." Gajeel wraps an arm around the shorter girl's shoulders, directing her towards the door.

"Ok, ok," Levy sighs in defeat. "Oh, wait! Kade said to give you this, Natsu. Have a good night, you two!" She passes him a folded up paper before they head out with a wave and a knowing smile for some reason.

Natsu unfolds the paper curiously, eyes widening a little when he realizes it's of Lucy, Kade, and himself with what looks like the baseball field behind them.

"W-Wow, this is…" His heart immediately swells with warmth and a deeper emotion he can't quite place right now, but he already knows this simple gift means more than he can say.

Lucy looks over his shoulder too. "Aw, he is so sweet. You really mean a lot to him… to both of us," she says softly, hugging Natsu's arm to her side.

Natsu swallows past the thick emotion in his throat. After so many years feeling like he would never amount to anything, and disappointing so many, never having many people and friends that he trusts or could be himself around, to have become so close with these two and have them become such a large part of his life so quickly like this, without him even fully realizing was just… he couldn't even put words to it, but it felt so right.

"You both do to me too," Natsu rasps, turning to press a soft kiss to her forehead, taking in the warm vulnerable affection in her eyes. "I need to give him something really good now," he chuckles, tucking the paper safely in his chest pocket by his heart.

Lucy huffs a laugh too. "Thank you, but you know he doesn't need anything fancy. And also thank you so much for everything tonight too, I had a great time with you," she says softer. "Well, we always have fun when we hang out, but tonight meant a lot," she grins warmly.

"I'm glad. If you're happy, I'm happy," Natsu smiles brighter, turning towards her fully, arms winding around her waist as his heart swells. "It did mean a lot to me too. Same time again soon?"

Lucy gives him an endearing smile, arms winding up around his neck. "Absolutely."

His chest feels so full it could burst happily. Natsu pulls her closer and kisses her softly, sighing into it before securing his arms tighter around her waist before picking her up and twirling her around a bit.

Her soft giggle breaks the kiss, but Natsu drinks the sight in all the same, etching it into his heart.

Thanks for reading! Hope you all enjoyed!

Went back a bit and fixed Natsu's mom's name in the beginning because I couldn't get into continuing to use grandeeny loll so went with something more neutral lol

But hoped you liked Natsu's slice of domestic family goodness! Setting the scene for a little something later on ;)

And more fluffy developing feels for our fave two! They already fell for each other so hard T_T Hope you like what's next!