Haloha, everyone! Hope you're having a good day! Thanks for the reviews as always!

I just want to say a bit about the direction of this story. Since I started writing the story, this was always the direction I had envisioned. As you reach the end of this chapter, I think you may… not like where it goes. Although not to worry, it is still strictly and always a NaWen fanfiction. And this story is far from over.

Anyhow, enjoy reading!


Chapter 16: Our Fairy Night, Part 2

It was the beginning of the Fairy Night.

"Ah… it's time." Erza whispered.

Jellal cleared his throat. "Erza." He stood in front of her, his cheeks dyed a faint red.

"Yes, Jellal?" Erza turned to him, holding her breath in anticipation.

"May I have the honor of dancing with you?" He offered his left hand.

Erza glanced at his hand and placed her palm on it. "It would be my pleasure."

Jellal gently escorted her to the dance floor. Jellal put his free hand above her waist, while Erza puts hers around his shoulder. They held hands, and affectionally gazed at each other's eyes as they moved across the dance floor.

The two remained in silence, enjoying each other's company for a while.

"It's really nice, getting to spend time like this. Don't you think?" Erza said softly.

"I must agree, Erza. It's… a pleasant change of pace from the life I was used to." Jellal chuckled.

"Why not atone for your sins by dancing your heart away?" She said in a joking manner.

He cracked a smile. "Haha. I'm doing that right now, aren't I?"

Erza hummed in approval. She gazed at his dark eyes, as if she could find herself lost in them.

"Thank you, Erza." Jellal said softly.

"What for?"

"For giving meaning to my life."

Erza's eyes widened. "Y-You know I didn't do anything that great…"

"That's not true." Jellal said in a serious tone. "I'm grateful to you. I've always used to think that I didn't deserve to live… because of the acts I've committed in the past."

"I see… how do you think about it now?"

"… I've learnt I shouldn't beat myself over every failure I make."

Erza's cheeks rose in heat. There were so many words she wanted to say to him, so many feelings she wanted to convey to him.

"Thanks to you," Jellal gently brought his forehead to hers. "I've been given a chance to love freely again."

"Jellal…" Erza felt a calming warmth spread to her face, accompanied by the warmth of her cheeks.

Jellal glanced at her lips, observing how it was glistening under the dim light. He quickly averted his gaze away. Right now, he didn't feel he deserved to take that step forward in their relationship. At least, not yet. Being able to spend time like this with Erza… that was more than he could have hoped for.

One day, he won't feel the need to hide behind the excuse of a fiancée.


Gray put on back his suit, dusting himself off from his fight with Lyon. Apparently, Sherria had dragged Lyon away from them, so this gave him a peace of mind.

"Gray…" Juvia called him, looking at him expectantly. She clasped her hands together nervously.

"Ah…" Gray looked towards the ceiling. It seems it's finally begun. He tidied up his tie and faced her. "Juv-"

"You were pretty cool when you said, 'She's mine'." Juvia imitated what Gray said to Lyon before in an exaggerated fashion.

Gray's face flushed a deep red. He said that in the heat of the moment, consumed by a fit of jealousy. He shook his head and cleared his throat. "Juvia."

"Y-Yes?"

"W-Would you like to dance with me?" Gray asked timidly, extending his left hand towards her. He praised himself for finally asking her to dance.

Juvia held his hand a bit more tightly than she intended to. "I would love to, Gray."

Gray slowly brought her to the dance floor. I'm feeling really nervous… but being with Juvia, he knew it was going to be okay. They were nervous together. They would figure it out together.

"Here…" Juvia guided both his hands to her waist. She curled her arms around his neck. They gazed at each other in silence, only to return smiles and let the music lead their bodies away.

As they danced, Gray appeared in deep thought about their relationship to this moment. From the moment they fought against each together to the moments they fought side by side. It was clear how Juvia felt about him, but what did he feel about her? Were they just friends? Or were they something more?

"Juvia…"

She hummed in response.

"I'm… really sorry." He hung his head down.

"S-Sorry? You have nothing to apologize for, Gray." Juvia assured him, even though she didn't know what he was apologizing for.

"No, it's just…" Gray glanced at her. "I've been thinking… about us."

"About us…?"

"I've been… thinking about my feelings lately." Gray said timidly.

"Oh, Gray…" Is that what I think it is? She tried to remain calm.

"You've always been there for me, Juvia. You've always stood by my side. I really appreciate you."

Juvia showed a smile of warmth. "By your side is where I want to b-"

"But… I don't deserve you, Juvia."

"… Huh?" Her eyes widened at his statement. Her heart stopped for a moment.

"I'm not… worthy enough to stand by you." Gray looked off to his side.

"What are you saying, Gray?!" Baffled that he could even say such a thing, Juvia raised her voice. "That's not true at all!"

"Juvia…" He gritted his teeth. "I've lost people important to me. People that I have failed to protect… and if I couldn't protect…"

If I couldn't protect you like I couldn't protect…

Master Urd, Ultear, my parents… He was always saved by them, only for them to lose their lives.

His master protected him from Deliorah at the cost of her own life.

Her daughter, Ultear, gave a second chance for Fairy Tail to fight back during the battle against Future Rouge at the cost of her life.

His father, Silver, banished his darkness and granted him Demon Slayer magic so he could protect his friends, only to vanish moments later.

He was afraid if the very same thing that happened to them was to happen to Juvia.

Tears began welling in his eyes, hurt by that thought.

Juvia gently rubbed his tears away with her thumb. "Gray darling, please don't cry…"

Gray held back his tears as best as he could. "I..."

"I'll always be by your side, Gray." She spoke in a hushed voice.

Guilt filled his heart. Why was she so kind to him? Why did she stay with him through all things thick and thin? How could he tell her he was afraid to lose her? That more than anything else in the world, he wanted to be with her and keep her safe?

"Nothing will ever break us apart."

"I just… want to protect you."

"I know you will. We will stand by each other's side. We'll protect each other." Juvia rested her head on his chest.

"Because I love you."

"Juvia…" Gray felt a sense of warmth and reassurance filling his heart. All it took were those three words. He's always heard them so frequently from her, and yet… those words carried a tender and sweet feeling now. He wrapped his arms around Juvia, pulling her into a tight embrace.

Juvia felt his warmth envelope her entire body. For an ice wizard, his hug was rather cozy. She snuggled close against his chest.

"Juvia…"

"Hmmm?"

"I… may not be able say those words now, but… could you wait for the day I finally do?"

"Of course, Gray." She curled her arms around his back and pulled him closer. "I'll be waiting."

Waiting for the day he could say the words she desired to hear so dearly.


"Come on, Natsu! Let's dance together!"

"I told you, I can't dance!"

Lucy dragged Natsu to the dance floor as the Fairy Night commenced.

"Sure, you can!" Lucy said with a smile.

"B-But…"

"It's going to be fine! We're in this together." She assured him, slowly guiding his hand to her waist while putting her hand to his shoulder.

"Erhh..." Natsu reluctantly accepted to dance with her. As long as she's happy. With his free hand, he awkwardly took hold of hers. "Don't get mad at me if I step on your feet, though."

"Then try your best not to!" She winked. "Here, follow my lead."

Natsu paid utmost attention to his feet. Rather than treating it as a dance, he treated it as a game where he would avoid stepping on Lucy's feet. His head was bowed down and focused.

Lucy gently moved his head up by his cheek. "Hey, you should be looking at your dance partner."

"T-This is embarrassing…" Natsu averted his gaze, a faint blush appearing on his cheeks.

He's so cute… Lucy smiled warmly. "Let's take it slow, alright? One… two… three."

Natsu slowly followed her footsteps as they moved across the dance floor.

"See? You can do it." Lucy said. "It's fun, isn't it?"

"I guess…"

In the distance, Wendy was observing them dance together. It sent her heart sharp pangs of jealousy, leaving a sourer taste in her mouth. She turned around in place and walked towards the buffet in hopes of distracting her mind. But she couldn't help herself. Every now and then, she'd sneak glances at her beloved dragon slayer, only to pout and turn back again.

"Wendy, are you going to be okay?" Happy asked with concern. "Do you need some medicine? I can get you one."

"… Don't worry, Happy. I'm fine." She said softly. In fact, she wasn't fine.

"Wendy, why don't you sit down and take a break?" Carla suggested, pushing a chair to her.

"… Sure, I'll do that." Wendy sat down on the chair Carla offered her. She sighed deeply.

"Wendy…" Happy wanted Wendy to enjoy the event. He wondered what was bothering her.

"Carla, Happy… you don't have to keep company. I'll be fine here." She forced a smile.

"Are you really sure about that, child?"

Wendy nodded in response.

"I see." Carla folded her arms. I guess I'll give her some space in the meantime. She rested her gaze on Happy.

"I hope she'll be alright." Happy looked downwards.

"Oh well, just give her some time. She'll be okay." Carla assured him.

"I guess so."

"Well then… ahem." Carla offered her paw to Happy, who looked at it dumbfoundedly.

"Is your paw okay, Carla?" Happy tilted his head.

"Aren't you going to ask me to the dance?" Carla smiled, looking at him expectantly.

Happy's eyes widened. He jumped in joy. "R-Really?! Would you r-really dance with me?"

"… Just this once." A soft blush graced her cheeks.

"I w-would be honored, Carla!" Hearts appeared in his eyes. He gently took hold of her paw and walked to the dance floor together with her.

At the corner of her eye, Wendy noticed them walking towards the dance floor. She grimaced at how unlucky she was. Even Carla's got a date… She pouted and crossed her arms, hoping this night would end soon enough.

"Let's take a break." Lucy said, moving away from the dance floor.

"That was so complicated… how do people even enjoy dancing?" Natsu asked, catching his breath.

"You were looking down too much, you know? You've got to get in the moment." Lucy slapped his shoulder.

"I was trying not to step on you." He rolled his eyes.

"Well, you didn't which I appreciate. Compared to last time, that's progress! You'll get better at this rate."

"Yeaahh… count me out." Natsu waved a hand to dismiss the idea. "All that dancing's got me starving." He walked towards the food table, eyeing the diverse selection of meals strewn across.

"Oh, come on, Natsu." She followed him. "You can't be that hun-Oh, these look pretty good."

"I know, right?" Natsu took some meatballs and flicked it into his mouth. "Elfman's cooking never disappoints!"

"Why, thank you! I'm sure Elfman would be overjoyed to hear that!" A certain white-haired girl stepped in between Natsu and Lucy.

"Hey, Mira." Natsu waved with his free hand.

"Oh, Mira! Enjoying the party?" Lucy asked.

"My, it has been the most delightful!" Mirajane smiled, then dragged Lucy a small distance away from Natsu. "Would you like some cake, Lucy?"

"Oh… sure? I guess I'm a little hungry." Lucy replied, a bit confused by the sudden offer.

"I'm glad to hear that. Please indulge yourself~" Mirajane cut a few slices of a… questionable cake and presented it on a plate to Lucy.

Lucy took a few bites, receiving an oddly sweet taste into her mouth. Tastes rather familiar…

"How does it taste?"

"It's pretty great! It's got a nice, fluffy texture. I'm guessing you made this?"

"Haha, bingo!" Mirajane winked. Though I didn't make it alone…

While Mirajane kept Lucy company, Natsu had been scarfing a lot of food down his mouth.

"Mhmm, this is pretty good!" Natsu chomped down on some steak. "Luce, you should try this!"

No response.

"Lucy?" Natsu turned to his side and noticed Lucy standing oddly with Mirajane. "Lucy, you alright?"

"Natsu…" Lucy slowly turned her neck to him. Her cheeks were flushed red.

"Oh no! She may have had too much to eat." Mirajane smiled brightly. "Take care of her, will you, Natsu?" Mirajane gently pushed Lucy forward in Natsu's direction and sidestepped away.

Natsu felt shivers sent down his spine. He knew that look all too well. She approached him, reaching her hands out.

"Natsu… fondle my chin~"

SHE'S DRUUUUNK! But how?! Natsu took a few steps back. He noticed her plate of cake. He took a whiff of the scent coming from it. Alcohol? There's alcohol in that cake?! Just how many did she eat to get that drunk? Mira, what the hell did you give her?! I only turned my back for a few minutes!

"Natsuuu~" Lucy hugged him, pressing her breasts against his chest.

"Snap out of it, Luce!" Natsu tried to struggle free from her intense hug and her tempting sensations. What do I do?

"You two should get a room." Approaching them, Cana said in a teasing tone.

"Cana!"

"Hey there, Natsu. Is Lucy drunk again?" Cana took a sip of her wine bottle.

"Y-Yeah! She ate this cake, and now she's suddenly like this!"

"A cake, you say?" Cana observed Lucy's plate with the cake she ate. "Oh, I made that cake with Mira! I may have put too much rum in it, haha." She scratched the back of her head awkwardly.

"You what?!" So it was you! Natsu looked dumbfounded. Who would it be if not Cana?

"So that's why Mira wanted my help…" Cana titled her head back in realization. Mirajane, you devil. "Here, I'll help you get her off." Cana stood behind Lucy and pulled her away from Natsu.

"No, Natsu~" Lucy cried his name.

"I've been looking for a drinking buddy. Guess you'll have to do!" Cana put her arm around Lucy. "Don't worry, Natsu, I'll look after her. It's the least I can do."

"… Thanks a million, Cana." Natsu gave her a thumbs up. He was spared from having to deal with drunk Lucy.

He walked away from the food tables, now wondering what to do next. Well, my partner's out of commission. He scanned his surroundings for anything that might catch his interest. In the distance, he spotted a lone girl just sitting by herself.

Wendy? What's she doing there?

He noticed she seemed rather… depressed, as that's the word he could think of. He wondered… why didn't she look happy? This was a special night where everyone deserved to have fun and be happy, but she clearly wasn't either of them. For an unspeakable reason, it saddened his heart to see Wendy like this. He clutched the fabric around his chest to distill the uncomfortable feeling rising in his chest. This wasn't the Wendy he wanted to see. He wanted to see her smile.

"Would you… like to go to the Harvest Festival with me next week?"

With a burning desire to make her smile, Natsu made way to his destination…

Wendy hung her head downwards, trying to distract herself from her surroundings. Soon she heard footsteps approaching her. It got closer and closer. She didn't bother to look at whoever it might be. She just wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone, but a comforting scent swept by her nose…

"Wendy?"

Wendy's eyes widened upon hearing the voice. The voice of person she desperately wanted to hear. She reflexively looked up and saw him standing in front of her.

"N-Natsu?"

"Hey there. What are you doing by yourself?" He flashed his signature grin.

Wendy was at a loss for words. Hearing his voice, seeing his smile… it warmed her heart. But what is he doing? Wasn't he with Lucy?

"I-I'm just… sitting here." Wendy said timidly.

"Yeah, I can see that." He laughed, putting his arms behind his head. "Are you… having fun?"

Wendy wanted to say no. She wanted to tell him how lonely she was feeling without him. But she couldn't. She just didn't have it in her to say it.

"Y-Yeah… I guess."

Natsu paid attention to her expression. He could tell she didn't seem to be enjoying herself, contrary to what she told him. It didn't sit right with him to let things be as it is. I want her to be happy. Just like everyone else.

"Wendy."

"What is it, Natsu?"

Without thinking, Natsu bent down on a knee and offered his right hand to her. "Would you like to… dance with me?"

"H-Huh?!" Wendy's eyes shot open. She looked around herself, then pointed at her face. "M-Me?"

"Haha, there's only one Wendy I know of." He grinned.

"B-But what about Lucy? Didn't she invite you?" Wendy still couldn't believe her ears. Did Natsu really ask her to dance with him?

"She's drunk. She got dragged off by Cana." He chuckled.

"A-Are you sure you want me as your partner? I'm not really a good dancer…" Wendy was still feeling hesitant.

"Neither am I." He gave her a smile full of warmth. "But… I'd love to dance with you."

"Natsu…" Wendy's heart tinged with happiness. She felt heat rising in her face. She couldn't believe it. She could never imagine Natsu asking her out to dance. But here he was, asking her to dance with him.

"I-I mean… you don't have to if you don't want." Natsu rubbed his neck awkwardly and looked away. I guess this is rather... embarrassing. "I-"

"N-No!" Wendy stood up from the chair. "I… would love to." She whispered shyly, which Natsu managed to pick up with his dragon senses. She gently placed her hand on his. Natsu stood up, taking hold of her delicate hand, and brought her to the center of the dance floor.

Never thought Lucy's dance lessons would come in handy. Remembering the times he danced with Lucy, he guided her hands around his neck. He placed his arms at the sides of her little body. He gazed at her face and smiled brightly. Wendy felt her breath taken away.

I'm dancing with Natsu…

Something she thought was impossible. But here they were, holding each other in a passionate gaze. The flickering lights around them blurred out, the music faded into the background, the presence of other people disappeared. It was just the two of them alone on the dance floor, in their own world. Nothing else mattered. She couldn't stop her lips from curving up into a smile. All the negative feelings she had up to this moment had melted away.

Natsu took notice of her smile, the smile he found to be the most beautiful on her face, the smile she deserved to always have. Honestly, he wasn't sure why he asked her to dance. He just couldn't bear to see her sad. This was something he thought on the spot. And he was glad as hell it worked.

Through the windows, moonlight shone on to Wendy's face, illuminating her features. Natsu admired how the moonlight highlighted her flushed, supple cheeks; her cute, little nose; her lush, wet lips; her silky, blue hair; and finally, her radiant, brown eyes gazing back into his own. He felt his breath taken away at the mesmerizing display, for all he could think of at this given moment…

She's beautiful.

It wasn't a word Natsu would always use, yet it was the only word he could think of.

"Erza." Jellal motioned for Erza to look behind her.

Erza turned around and noticed Natsu and Wendy dancing together. She smiled at them. I'm happy for you, Wendy.

"You know, I've noticed Wendy is a lot happier when Natsu is around." Gray said, watching them dance.

"Yeah. Her smile's so pretty. It's not one I've seen often…" Juvia nodded.

"Hey, look! Wendy is smiling!" Happy exclaimed.

"… Indeed, she is." Carla sighed in relief. Good for you, Wendy.

"Never thought I'd see Salamander be half-decent at dancing." Gajeel chuckled.

"They look really adorable." Levy added.

You've always talked about him a lot, Wendy. I now realize why. Lyon crossed his arms in approval.

Way to go, Wendy! Sherria silently cheered her on.

"Natsu's sure got the moves, don't you think, Lucy?" Cana asked, nudging her elbow.

"… He's finally learnt to get in the moment." Lucy said, having sobered up a bit.

And so, Fairy Night reached its fitting conclusion.


A Few hours later…

Fairy Night had come to a close. Most of the residents had already left the event, while others chose to stay and spend time with one another.

Wendy asked Natsu to go on a nightly stroll with her. It was just the two of them walking side by side, accompanied by the moon, the stars, and the sounds of their footsteps.

"Did you have a lot of fun, Wendy?"

"Yeah, I really did!"

He sighed in relief. "I was worried I didn't dance too well."

"N-No, don't worry about it! I didn't really dance well either, but… I really enjoyed dancing with you."

"… I'm glad to hear that." He said softly.

Wendy felt a sense of peacefulness fill her heart, walking alone with Natsu. She hoped moments like these could last forever.

"Your dormitory's in this direction, isn't it? I'll accompany you."

Wendy tried to hold back a frown. She understood Natsu was being considerate of the time, but she didn't want this night to end just yet. She wanted to spend more time with him, to make up for the time she didn't during the day. Not to mention…

"I'm going to confess to Natsu tonight."

"Uhm… Natsu." Wendy curled her fingers around his hand.

"What's up, Wendy?"

"Could I… come to your place for a bit?" She asked, twiddling her bangs with her free hand. "There's… something I want to tell you."

"Oh." Natsu tilted his head. "Is it something important? Something you can't tell me here?"

"Y-Yeah…" Wendy nodded, looking at him expectantly.

Hmmm, I guess we still got time. "Sure." Natsu tightened her grip around her hand to affirm her. "Let's go."

Wendy's lips curved into a smile. This was also a good excuse for her to visit his place. Her heart tinged with anticipation.

And so, they walked towards Natsu's house, hand in hand.

"So what did you want to talk about?" He asked.

"… Let's wait till we get to your place." Wendy giggled.

"Aww, now I'm quite curious!" He turned his head to her. "How about a hint?"

"No hints." Wendy put a finger to her lips and winked at him.

"Fine, fine." Natsu said with a defeated sigh. I wonder what important stuff does she want to talk about?

His house started appearing in full view. Soon they were standing in front of the door.

"After you." Natsu opened the door and ushered Wendy in.

"Why, thank you." Wendy slowly moved inside.

Wendy's eyes immediately began scanning around his house. She expected his house would be a bit messy, but contrary to her belief, it was surprisingly… neat and tidy.

"It's surprisingly clean…" Wendy blurted out.

"Yeah, Happy's been nagging about it constantly. He prefers it this way." He put his hands on his hips. "Erza also made sure I took care of my house. The last time she came here… " He shuddered as he remembered.

"Haha, I see. I like it this way too." She smiled at him, putting her arms behind her back.

"Heh, alright." He chuckled.

As Wendy looked around the walls, she noticed a board having various notes and pictures. There was also a table in front of it, full of different objects. She moved closer to get a better look. Turns out they were the job requests and souvenirs from his past missions. She examined each of these requests. Her eyes were drawn to a particular note…

"The first job I ever did with Lucy!"

"Hmmm…" She pouted, but her eyes immediately widened as another note caught her interest…

"The day Wendy joined Fairy Tail!"

Her hand was drawn to the note. She brushed her fingers against it, giving her a smile. I never knew he treasured this since that day…

Natsu walked towards his bed and sat on it. He patted the spot beside him. "Well, you wanted to tell me something important, right? Get over here."

She turned around abruptly. "Y-Yeah." Wendy awkwardly walked towards him and sat beside him. She twiddled her fingers, feeling nervousness set in to her body.

"So, what did you want to talk about?" Natsu looked at her attentively.

"I… uh…" Wendy turned her head to him, glancing at his eyes. W-What do I say? Wendy didn't think this through. She would piece together the words in her mind as she went. This was it. There was no turning back now.

She took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down, which barely helped in any way. "S-Sorry, I need a moment."

Natsu gently took hold of her hand and squeezed it, trying to dissolve tension from her body. "Take your time."

"Natsu, I…" Her lips dried up, shaking a bit. "I've… really enjoyed spending time with you these past several days..."

Natsu wanted to reply 'me too!', but he felt he shouldn't interrupt her.

Wendy willed her trembling legs to stand up. She felt her legs could give out at any moment. Using whatever strength she had left, she moved her feet, one in front of the other, till she was standing in front of Natsu, facing him. Her little body quivered under the attentive gaze from his eyes.

"I-It's something…" Her hands started shaking at her sides. She clenched the fabric of her dress around her chest. "It's something I've been thinking about for a long time."

Natsu nodded, waiting patiently for her to continue.

"Natsu…" She swallowed her nervousness. "You've… become such an important person in my life. You mean… so much to me." The sounds of her heartbeat dominated her ears.

Natsu was tempted to reply, to say the same words to her, but he held himself back.

"I'm… really happy when you're here… with me."

Natsu gave her a gentle smile. To let her know he felt the same.

It's now or never.

Wendy took a deep breath, focusing on his eyes. "Natsu, I… I lo…"

Natsu titled his head at a curious angle.

"I…" She forced her trembling voice to continue the words she wanted him to hear so dearly.

She glanced at Natsu quickly, then looked away. She stared down at her feet. "I… lov.." She clenched the hem of the dress, digging the nails into her skin, trying to stop her body from shaking.

She couldn't voice out her feelings, as if there was a lump stuck in her throat, preventing her from doing so.

Why...

Tears began welling up in her eyes, blurring her vision. She gritted her teeth, trying to keep her fragile composure. A heaviness set in her chest, tightening her heart. She wanted to run away, but her legs wouldn't listen to her. She didn't want Natsu to see her in this state.

Why can't I say it?

She felt helpless. Powerless. Her heart throbbed painfully, as if wanting to burst through her chest.

Natsu remained silent. What happened to the cheerful Wendy just a moment ago? He noticed…

How the tears travelled across her face,

How her lips parted as she sobbed,

How her cheeks puffed out,

How her little body trembled.

Driven by instincts, he stood up and leaned towards her, wrapping his arms around her delicate, trembling body.

All it took was that single gesture to release the gate of her emotions.

Tears travelled down her cheeks like a waterfall breaking out through a dam. She started crying uncontrollably, unable to hold back her emotions. She brought her hands to her face, trying to wipe her tears away, trying to stop herself from crying, trying to escape her sadness.

With a careful tenderness, Natsu rested his chin on her head, stroking her blue hair. He wanted to let her know it was going to be okay, encourage her to let out her feelings.

Wendy tightly clutched his suit and bawled loudly to his chest, afraid that he would disappear out of her reach.

Natsu waited for as long as she needed. Countless minutes have passed, but he didn't mind. Eventually, her crying died down as she released her grip from his chest. He could still hear faint sobs and sniffs every now and then.

Wendy looked up away from his chest, causing Natsu to pull his head back from hers. He smiled warmly at her, using his thumb and gently rubbed the remaining tears away from her puffy eyes.

"Wendy…" he spoke in a hushed voice. "If it's too difficult to tell me, it's okay." He softy caressed her cheeks, feeling the wetness of her skin. "You don't have to push yourself."

"Natsu…" she whispered through her tears. He was always so kind and gentle with her. Even with this mess of a state she was in, he treated her all the same.

"If it's important to you, I'm sure you'll tell me, eventually." He smiled. "I'll wait as long as you need."

Her crying slowly came to a halt. "O-Okay." She mustered the best smile she could possibly give him.

Finally seeing her smile, Natsu sighed in relief. He then turned his attention to the clock, noticing it was getting pretty late. I should get her home. Carla wouldn't want her staying out late. In all honestly, he wouldn't mind if Wendy did stay. He'd just rather not face the wrath of Carla.

"Wendy. It's getting pretty late. I'll accompany you back to your dorm."

Wendy looked at the time, realizing how late it was. She wanted to stay in his comforting arms a little while longer. She sighed deeply, reluctantly nodding to him.

"Okay, Natsu…"


Several minutes later…

..

.

The duo walked together in silence, hand in hand, approaching the door to Fairy Hills. Soon, they were a good distance away from the door.

"Well, here we are!" Natsu said.

"Y-Yeah…" Wendy replied timidly.

Natsu let go of her hand and softly patted her back, urging her to go forward. Wendy stood still in place, feeling reluctant to take a step forward.

"Wendy? What's wrong?"

She turned to him, tugging on his sleeve. "Natsu… please, stay with me."

"Huh? What do you mean?" He put his arm around her shoulder and smiled. "I'm always here for you."

"No, I want you… here with me." Wendy snuggled against his body.

"Huh?" Natsu's eyes widened as he thought about what she just said. "You mean me staying in Fairy Hills? With you?"

Wendy shyly nodded. It sounded like and was an impossible request, she had to admit. But after what just transpired at his house, she just wanted to be with him, at least for this night. She felt safer with him.

Natsu scratched his neck awkwardly. "Sorry, Wendy. You know I can't stay-"

Of course, she knew that all too well. She knew he couldn't stay here. She knew it was such a stupid request to make. And yet…

"… Please, Natsu. I need you here." Wendy hugged him, clutching the back of his clothes. "I'm… afraid."

"What are you afraid of, Wendy?"

"I'm just… so afraid."

"Wendy…" Natsu guessed what happened at his house must still be bothering her. How do I let her know it'll be okay? He looked downwards, adjusting his scarf in place. My scarf…

Natsu let himself free from her hug, then pulled his scarf away from his neck. He got down on one knee and gently wrapped his scarf around Wendy's shoulders.

"N-Natsu…" Wendy's eyes widened in surprise. She glanced at his scarf around her.

He gently pressed his lips against her forehead.

"Now, I'm always with you." He grinned.

Wendy knew how important this scarf was to Natsu. It's the only thing left from his father. And yet, he handed it to her…

"I-Is it really okay? I mean, this scarf…"

"Totally okay." He stood up. "You can return it to me later, after you're feeling better. Take care of it for me, will ya?"

"Okay…" Wendy smiled weakly and nodded.

"Great." Natsu patted her head. "I'm gonna head back now. See you later, Wendy. Have a good night!" He waved and turned around, walking in the opposite direction.

"You too, Natsu!" Wendy waved back as his figure disappeared in the night.

She put her hands over his scarf and pressed it against her face, taking in the comforting scent. His scarf enveloped her in warmth, as if she were in Natsu's tender embrace. As if he was right next to her. She turned in place and returned to her room, holding the scarf close to her heart.


Under the calm night…

..

.

Natsu walked at a comfortable pace back to his house. He gazed at the sky, taking notice of the sparkling stars. The view's really nice…

Just then, a familiar scent travelled through his nose. He squinted his eyes looking at the distance and noticed a blonde-haired girl sitting on a bench alone.

"Lucy?"

She turned her head to him, finally noticing his presence. "Oh, Natsu… you're here."

Natsu walked up to her. "What are you doing here at this time?" He smiled.

"I was looking for you after the event, actually… Cana really held me up back there." Lucy awkwardly scratched her cheek. "Sorry for getting drunk again…"

"Ahah, is that so?" He was grateful he didn't have to deal with drunk Lucy. He preferred this Lucy, just the way she is. He took a seat beside her. "Don't worry about it."

Lucy noticed a certain unique feature of Natsu had disappeared. Her eyes were drawn to his bare neck. "… Where's your scarf, Natsu?"

"Oh, I lent it to Wendy to cheer her up." Natsu said.

"Heh, that's pretty sweet of you." Lucy smiled, gazing at the sky. Those two have gotten closer recently…

A chilly wind breezed through them, sending shivers down Lucy's spine. She rubbed her arms together to warm herself. Natsu scooted closer to her and put his arm around her, sharing his body heat. A faint blush appeared on her cheeks. Lucy leaned her head on to Natsu's, desiring to be closer to him on this chilly night.

"Hey, Natsu?"

"Yeah, Luce?"

"There's… something I've been meaning to talk to you about."