Bit of a special one for you guys, featuring some fluffy first date feels. Enjoy!
"Want another beer?"
"Sure," Gray murmured, not taking his eyes from the TV. Slumped back with an arm thrown over the back of the couch.
He'd stopped by Natsu's house to drop something off but then they got to talking and settled in the living room to watch a movie Natsu had on.
Natsu came back from the kitchen, placed the bottle in Gray's hand and settled in his spot again.
He finally restocked his barren kitchen with some good stuff.
"Did you always like this brand? Not your usual." Gray asked, thumbing over the label.
"Lucy brought 'em over the last time she was here the other day. They're pretty good," Natsu said, lifting the bottle to take a sip.
Gray hummed. "She doing okay? You finally listen to all those not so subtle hints between you two?" he smirked.
"We might have," Natsu said after a few moments, trying to smother his widening grin by taking another gulp from his bottle.
Gray scoffed but then paused. "Wait, really?" He sat up a bit more, turning towards Natsu.
Natsu almost wanted to deny it. It was all still rather new and they still hadn't really told anyone yet, but the light warmth in his chest still hadn't gone away since that day they kissed and he couldn't help himself.
"Lucy and I may have realized our mutual feelings and kissed recently," Natsu admitted with a sheepish happy smile.
"No way, finally," Gray grinned, clapping Natsu's shoulder. "When was this?"
"Uh, not too long after we got back," he chuckled softly, rubbing the back of his neck.
"And it happened just like that? Gonna need some details."
"Fine." Natsu rolled his eyes with a laugh. "I, uh, may have finally realized just what she means to me." He ignored Gray's snort. "Then I asked her if she wanted to go on that walking trail with me last week, then it ended up raining." Gray interrupted with another chuckle as Natsu narrowed his eyes at him playfully. "Came back here to get dry, had dinner and started watching this movie and I just- she was so beautiful all dressed in my clothes and I couldn't help it. We kissed and found we both feel the same and here we are," Natsu finished, laughing softly, warmth spreading through his chest as he remembered the feel of her lips on his for the first time. How everything seemed to fall into place.
"Well, damn. Took you guys long enough," Gray laughed, shoving Natsu's shoulder playfully. "How's it been going so far?"
"It's been goin' really well," Natsu admitted warmly. "Our friendship had already felt close, but now it just feels right y'know? Something deeper."
"Sure, I get you," Gray chuckled. "I'm happy for you, Natsu. You both deserve it." His expression softened a bit, running a hand through his dark ruffled hair.
"Thanks," Natsu said, giving Gray a squeeze back on his shoulder.
He didn't go for teasing Gray, knowing moments like this didn't happen all the time between them.
He didn't wear his heart on his sleeve as much, so it made Natsu appreciate their deeper moments like this all that much more, and it reminded Natsu just how important their friendship was and always would be.
"You're the first one I've told so we'll keep it between us before the whole nosey group finds out," Natsu laughed.
"Secret's safe with me." Gray raised his hand in promise. "And you do know that all was totally a date right?" He smirked, finishing his bottle and placing it on the coffee table.
"Wha- but we just- no?" Natsu's brows scrunched in thought. "No way, if it's gonna be a date I have to go all out and do somethin' better."
Gray laughed and shook his head. "Whatever you say."
Natsu only grumbled in reply.
Gray left a few hours after that, the two catching up a bit more and Natsu now found himself up in his room after a fresh shower.
"I gotta do somethin' special for her, Happy, but what?"
Happy just purred away, curled up on the foot of his bed as Natsu tossed some clothes in the hamper.
He passed his open closet, a black bag in the corner of the rack catching his eye. He pulled down the zipper, brow raising slightly.
"Maybe that could work," he grinned wide.
Natsu exhaled a deep breath, palm smoothing over the lapels of his coat.
A grin twitched on his lips, eager to see Lucy's reaction.
He wanted to do something special for her, but this wasn't too much was it?
Oh well, here goes nothing.
Natsu gripped the flowers tight in his hand and pulled open the glass door to Lucy's work building.
Natsu reached the main reception desk where he was greeted by a woman with a bright grin and short dark violet hair.
"Good afternoon! How can I help you?"
"Afternoon," he grinned with a nod, "I'm actually here for a Miss Lucy Heartfilia."
The woman's eyes brightened. "Oh, you must be Natsu!"
"Yeah, that's me," Natsu chuckled, scratching the back of his warm neck.
The woman rose from her seat to hold out her hand towards him. "So nice to finally meet you!" Natsu grasped her hand to shake it, "Lucy's told us a lot about you."
"All good I hope," Natsu grinned wide. "Thought I would surprise her and drop by."
"Nothing but amazing things I promise," she laughed. "Oh, she's going to love this, I'll call her right now."
"Hey, Lu. You have a special visitor here at reception. Yup. Ok, see you soon."
Natsu laughed to himself, fingers brushing along the soft petals. He could see Lucy's cute confused crinkle of her brow already.
"She'll be right over," the woman said, obviously trying to contain her wide smile.
Not that he could blame her, the fluttering in his chest was making his own smile reach his eyes as he nodded.
Natsu took one more deep breath for a moment before he glanced up just in time to see Lucy turn the corner.
"Hey, Kinana, who's-"
She paused in her step, honey eyes widening when they met his.
"Hey, Luce." Natsu's large toothy smile lit up his face.
Lucy was always beautiful in anything she wore, but the dark navy blue blouse she had on today brought out even more of what he loved about her eyes and he gladly drank in the sight of her.
"Hi, Natsu… what are you doing here?" A bright warm grin stretched across her lips as she continued her way over to him.
"Oh, I just happened to be in the area and thought I would stop by," Natsu grinned. "These are for you." He handed her the flowers with a little bow at his waist.
Lucy giggled, grabbing the stems from him. "Sunflowers, my favorite! You remembered.. they're beautiful, thank you." She wrapped her arms around him in a warm hug.
He remembered ever since that same day she told him while she was admiring them in a shop window they passed. Now they reminded him of her whenever he saw them and thought they would be perfect for today.
"No problem," Natsu whispered. He pulled her close and hugged her back tightly, breathing in her comforting scent that always kept him grounded, a hum of content vibrating in his chest.
"Did you already have lunch?" Natsu asked when they parted, pushing back some gold strands behind Lucy's ear.
"No, not yet, I've been meaning to though."
"Go ahead and take an early day, Lucy."
Natsu felt Lucy flinch as they looked up. He caught an amused smile from a slightly older woman who leaned against the wall near them. They hadn't even noticed Kinana leave the front desk and return with a group of Lucy's giggling coworkers who were behind the woman, who Natsu guessed was Lucy's boss.
"Y-You guys!" Lucy squeaked, "A-Are you sure, Rose?"
"Of course," she waved Lucy off with a warm smile. "You haven't taken a day for yourself in too long, you deserve it. We have things covered."
"Thank you." Lucy's expression softened a bit with a small grateful smile.
"Sorry, didn't mean to drag her away so suddenly," Natsu said sheepishly, palm coming up to rub his neck.
"No it's ok! It's nice to finally meet the famous Natsu in person," Kinana said, laughter and cheerful agreements rising from the group.
"Oh my god, you guys are the worst," Lucy whined, hands came up to try and cover the cute blush spreading across her cheeks before turning back to him, "let me just grab my stuff and we can go."
"Sure," Natsu smiled, rubbing her back.
Lucy weaved through the group quickly heading back around the corner, the group dissipating as they followed her. Kinana settled back at the front desk.
"It really is nice to see Lucy so happy recently," she said, her expression fond.
Natsu's grin softened. "I'm glad. She makes me really happy too."
Warmth spread through his chest. There weren't many times he could say he was truly happy.
Not like this. Like how he was with her.
Lucy soon returned back up front, smiling that radiant smile of hers. "All set?"
"Absolutely. Shall we?" Natsu grinned, extending his elbow to her.
Lucy shook her head with a bright laugh, slipping her arm through his as they started towards the doors.
"Always the gentleman, commander."
"Of course. Only the best for you, Miss Heartfilia," Natsu winked, his smile widening at her infectious laughter that he could listen to all day.
They made it back to Natsu's truck, leaning against the passenger side for a moment.
"Well, that went well," Lucy laughed, fingers smoothing softly over the flower pedals.
Some nerves tightened his chest. This was all rather new for him and he didn't want to mess anything up now.
"Was all this okay? I'm sorry. I thought it'd be nice to be spontaneous, but it was all probably too much and too sudden," Natsu rubbed his neck where a flush had quickly spread. "Then I wear this dumb getup and I-"
"Hey, no it's okay," Lucy reassured warmly, stepping closer and grasping his arms. "I just meant because they look for any excuse to tease and they'll be talking about this for a while," Lucy laughed softly, "but it was so sweet and such a wonderful surprise for you to do all this for me," she said, settling her hands on his chest. "I also must say, you look very good in this uniform, commander," she finished with a teasing glint in her eyes and a shining smile.
Fluttering nerves melted into a warm prideful sense of content in his chest.
A wide fanged grin broke out across his face. "Is that so?" Rough warm palms settled on her waist, pulling her closer.
"Very much." She smoothed over the lapels of his coat, brushing along the gold buttons.
"Then if you're happy, I'm happy," he said softly, leaning in to press a kiss to her forehead. "So, Miss Heartfilia, will you do me the honor of going on a date with me?" His toothy smile grew as he watched her laugh crinkle her eyes.
"Of course I will, you big goof," Lucy giggled, wrapping her arms around his neck, "I would love to," she whispered between them before pulling him down for a slow lingering kiss that sent tingles up his spine.
He will never get tired of this. The feel of her in his arms, how her soft lips molded perfectly against his as he breathed in the soft sounds, the warm comfort in his chest as he held her close. How right it all felt.
"So what did you have in mind?" Lucy asked, thumb softly brushing along his jaw.
"Hmm, you'll just have to wait and see," Natsu smirked.
He laughed at Lucy's pout, unable to resist capturing it in a sweet kiss.
"That's ok, if it's with you I'd go anywhere."
There was such warm fond affection in her eyes it was almost hard to believe they were directed at him.
Natsu's expression softened. "I'll always go anywhere with you too, Luce."
"So, I thought we'd stop by Rogue's first for some of our usual favorites," Natsu grinned towards her when he found a spot to park by the familiar coffee house.
Lucy smiled, her eyes fond. "Sounds perfect. How did you know I was craving some? Let's go," she said with a squeeze to Natsu's hand before they stepped out of his truck.
Natsu held the door for her, a few people giving him warm smiles as they made their way through.
He wondered why- oh right, the uniform.
Maybe he should have thought this through more… but seeing that bright smile on Lucy's face was the only thing that mattered to him.
The shop was quiet and slow luckily. A familiar head of raven hair in a ponytail greeted them when they got to the counter.
"Hey, guys," Rogue grinned, pushing his bangs from his face. "You're looking fancy today, Natsu, what's the occasion?"
"Hey, Rogue," Natsu greeted sheepishly. He caught Lucy's gaze, a suddenly shy smile on her lips. "Ah well..." he started, rubbing the back of his neck.
Of course their friend would be working today, he owned the place after all.
Rogue looked down at their clasped hands, catching the flush on their cheeks most likely.
"Ooh, I got it," he smirked, "I should say congrats then. Nice to see you guys finally taking that step."
"We were that obvious huh?" Lucy laughed.
Content warmth settled in his chest as she gave his hand a reassuring squeeze, brushing his thumb along the soft skin of her inner wrist.
"Oh absolutely," Rogue's grin widened. "Sting may have a bet going on about when you guys would get together, but you didn't hear that from me."
Natsu rolled his eyes. "Of course he would, and don't you tell him yet! The whole town would know by tonight."
"Can't say you're wrong there," Rogue laughed, "and don't worry, it's safe with me." His eyes amused.
They gave Rogue their order soon after and settled at a cozy table in the corner.
Natsu took off his cap and ran a hand through his hair.
"I still can't believe you got all dressed up just for me," Lucy chuckled. "I actually wouldn't mind if your uniform happened to show up again sometime soon," she smirked, playfulness in her eyes as she reached over to brush her fingers over the buttons on his jacket sleeve.
"Like I said, only the best for you, Luce," he winked. "So I can definitely make that happen for you."
Laughter flitted between them and after some easy conversation, Rogue brought over their order.
"And here's some extra pastries. It's all on the house, enjoy," Rogue grinned, setting the plate by Lucy.
"Aw, thank you!"
"You didn't have to, but thank you," Natsu grinned.
"No problem," Rogue waved off. "Good seeing you guys. Congrats again," he smiled warmly before heading back to the counter to help someone else.
"So, what made you want to do something today?" Lucy asked, sighing in content after a long sip of her drink.
"Well, just breakfast after our rainy trail day didn't quite feel like a proper date," Natsu chuckled, "and that weekend meant a lot to me so wanted to do somethin' special for you," he said warmly.
A soft hand fell over his, fond smile and kind honey eyes.
"I loved that weekend too, I don't need anything more," Lucy reassured softly. "Just spending time with you like this is perfect, I promise. Doesn't matter where we are or what we do."
"I feel the same." Natsu squeezed her hand, his smile widening as they exchanged a soft look. "But I'm still treating you, Luce."
Lucy shook her head fondly and the conversation carried on with bright laughter and smiles until their plates were clear and they were finishing off the last of their coffee.
"So, now that you got me an early start to the weekend, did you have anything else planned?"
"I was hoping for that actually, glad your boss was cool with it. I was gonna keep you out anyway," Natsu laughed, leaning back in his chair. "So, now we can really take this ol' thing out for a spin for a while longer just like you wanted for the next part of my plan," he grinned, patting the emblems on his chest.
"Sounds good to me," Lucy grinned, that smile that makes him feel all warm inside. "But you're still not going to let me in on the rest of this said plan?"
"Nope. Like I said, then it won't be a surprise will it?"
"Fine," Lucy sighed dramatically. "Do you mind if we stop by the apartment first? Want to get changed and put this work stuff away."
"Yeah, of course!" Natsu still put some money on the table for Rogue before they headed out. "Your chariot awaits, princess," he smirked, holding the door open for her when they reached the truck.
Lucy gifted him with that bright smile again. "Such a dork," she giggled as she stepped in.
"I try," Natsu winked with a laugh, stepping around to get into his side and starting up his truck.
They joked as they drove through the familiar streets. Warm sun filtering through the windows, but it didn't compare to the light that radiated beside him.
Natsu pulled up to her building, brakes squeaking a bit.
"You sure your hunk of steel isn't gonna break down soon?" Lucy teased.
"Wha-" Natsu gawked, shutting off the engine. "No way! Kemo just needs a tune-up is all," he said, patting the top of the dash.
"Kemo?"
"Yup, that's his name," Natsu beamed.
Lucy laughed brightly. "How has it been this long and you've never told me your truck has a name?"
"Guess it never came up?" His fanged grin grew wide as they started gathering their stuff and stepping out.
"Well, thank you, Kemo for being so reliable and hope you get fixed up soon." Patting her door when she closed it.
"Kemo thanks you."
Her laughter chimed pleasantly in his ear as they made their way up to her apartment.
Lucy opened up her door and stepped in, Natsu following and shutting the door for her. An affectionate smile grew as he watched Lucy place the flowers he gave her in a vase and set them on her counter gently. They were definitely perfect for her.
"Thanks again for these. I should have flowers out in here more often," Lucy smiled, walking over to where he was leaning against the counter island that separated the kitchen from the living room.
"Mm, I can plant a whole field of them for you if you want."
Lucy giggled, palms smoothing over the lapels of his jacket. "That may be a little much, but I appreciate the thought." She pulled him in closer to press a soft kiss against his lips.
"Alright, I'm gonna go change. Make yourself comfy." Her touch left him all too soon as she moved towards her room, sending him a grin over her shoulder.
Natsu watched those golden strands flow down her back and sighed in content with a wide smile of his own.
Warm swelled in his chest as he breathed in everything that was Lucy, soothing his mind. It always did feel comfortable and welcoming every time he was here. Though, anywhere he was with her did that for him.
Natsu unbuttoned the top of his jacket that was starting to feel a little warm.
He loved the boost of confidence his uniform brought him, but he could do without the constricting feeling.
Setting it on the back of one of the dining chairs, he breathed a little easier when he loosened his tie and found himself making his way towards Lucy's desk in the corner.
He smiled softly, admiring the corkboard of photos she had over the desk. Various keepsakes and pictures of her and their friends pinned on it. He smiled softly, she looked so happy. Just as she deserved to be.
There were a couple of photos of the two of them himself and Gray in that picture he had sent her from one of their first letters to each other when he was away, making him chuckle.
All his second guessing and denying his heart back then was laughable now. Of course he had caught feelings. How could he not for someone as amazing as her. To think she felt the same way the whole time too, it was almost too good to be true.
"Aw, the uniform is leaving so soon?" A soft teasing voice filtered through his thoughts.
Natsu turned, breath hitching in his throat.
Lucy stood against the door frame of the hallway, radiant and perfect as ever. Light jeans hugged her shapely legs and curves just right, seemingly soft dark navy sweater, short brown boots, and coat over her arm, hair falling in waves over her shoulder. Her smile was teasing but warm.
It took a few moments for his voice to find him again.
Natsu laughed, clearing his throat. "It's just the jacket for now, don't worry."
"Mm, good. That'd be too soon for you to pack it up," Lucy grinned, setting her coat on the small dining table as they met each other in the middle. Her palms smoothed over his chest, fingers circling around his loose tie and pulling him closer.
"That so?" Natsu smirked, feeling his neck warming from her attention, his palms settling around her waist.
He really needed to plan another day to wear this for her.
Lucy hummed in reply, closing the distance between them. Her lips brushed against his lightly before he leaned in to kiss her fully.
Natsu breathed her in and groaned softly when he tilted his head to deepen the kiss. Her lips were soft and warm as they slid across his. He tightened his hold around her, pulling her flush against him, savoring the feel of her warm curves under his palms. He swallowed the soft gasp that passed her lips when his tongue traced along her bottom lip.
Natsu pulled back, resting their foreheads together as they caught their breath. "Sorry, got a bit carried away," he whispered between them with an airy laugh, fingers coming up to push her hair back behind her ear.
"I-It's okay," she breathed, her palms smoothing over his shoulders, "I… I don't mind." Her gaze dropped from his, her fingers fidgeted with his tie, a pretty flush rising in her cheeks.
A wolfish grin quickly stretched across his face with a raspy chuckle. The prideful dragon in him was happy that it was him that was able to pull that reaction from her.
His palm drifted up to the back of her neck, pulling her back in to place a lingering kiss between her brows. They had all the time to get it right, he didn't want to rush things for her.
"As much as I want to pick this up again," Natsu grinned, her skin soft as his thumb brushed along her jaw. "I'm just going to freshen up then we can head out?"
"Sure, sounds good," Lucy said, smiling warmly. She pressed one more quick kiss along his jaw.
He gave her a toothy grin in return before turning for her bathroom with the small bag he brought up with him.
His larger duffel was in the truck, but this one had what he needed for now. He put some more pomade in his hair to try and keep it tame since it was growing out a bit now that he was home. He continued through the rest of the motions, even putting on some of his cologne he kept for special occasions. His favorite warm, woodsy scent.
Finishing up with a steadying sigh, he looked over himself in the mirror. Natsu's heart was still beating a little quick with nerves. He really hoped she liked what he had planned next.
It was the first time he was putting his whole self into planning something special like this, but anything was worth it for Lucy. They were still navigating all this new romantic phase together, but he's never felt all of what she makes him feel and he couldn't imagine this happening with anyone else.
He really hoped she liked it. Natsu smiled softly at the thought, letting it ground him before heading back out.
He found Lucy at the dining table looking over his uniform jacket.
Warmth filled his chest at her fond expression and the gentle way her fingers moved over his name tag and medals that were pinned to it.
She looked up at him with a soft smile when he walked further into the room.
"They're probably gonna give me a new pin soon. Almost ten years of service, who would'a thought." His laugh lacked a bit of feeling behind it as he moved beside her, palm smoothing down his tie.
It had been all he knew since he was eighteen, the years went by faster than he realized.
"I know it's hard and been a long time." Lucy turned fully towards him, reaching up to give his shoulders a reassuring squeeze. "But it's still an amazing accomplishment," she reassured, Natsu leaning into her touch before her arms found their way around his neck. "And I'm so proud of you."
Natsu's expression softened, heart swelling with such strong affection he had to swallow thickly. He leaned close and pressed a long, warm kiss to her forehead with a soft thank you.
"Mm, you even have on your good cologne? Really must have something planned," Lucy grinned, her hold around his shoulders keeping him close.
Natsu laughed warmly, palms steady at the small of her back. "Of course. Wouldn't break out all this good stuff for nothin'."
"You did clean up pretty good today." There was a playful glint in those honey eyes, fingers teasing the shorter hair at the back of his head, sending a tingle down his spine.
"Only pretty good?" Natsu pouted. "Gonna have to step it up more next time."
Lucy giggled. "Oh stop, you looked very handsome in everything today." She leaned up to kiss his jaw, heat tingling on his skin. "Better?"
"Better," Natsu smirked. "You look beautiful as always, by the way." His tone and expression softened, thumbs brushing along the material over her waist.
"Thank you," she said softly, her palms sliding down over his chest. "I wasn't sure what exactly I'm going to be needing so just went with a little something warm."
"It's perfect," he grinned brightly. "Shall we head out?"
"Ready whenever you are."
Lucy matched his bright smile and he couldn't help the excited flutters in his chest.
They settled back down in the truck and Natsu headed in a bit of a newer route for a while, the drive filled with laughter and sing alongs until they reached the large lake towards the outskirts of town, finding a spot to park near the long dock.
"Oh, I think I've passed by this lake, but haven't stopped by yet," Lucy said, bright eyes taking in the view around them through the window.
"It's a pretty nice one." He stepped out of the truck and walked around to open her door for her and held out his hand.
Lucy laughed lightly, slipping her hand in his. "Such a gentleman, commander."
"Only the best for you, Luce," he grinned widely. "Oh, wait. Let me put my jacket back on so you can get the full effect again."
He reached through to the back to grab his uniform jacket from the hook, slipping his arms back through. He buttoned the collar and smoothed his hands over the front. "Good?"
Lucy hummed, stepping closer tug on the lapels of his jacket to pull him closer too, looking over him appreciatively.
"Perfect."
She cupped his jaw and closed the distance with a lingering press of her lips on his.
Warmth swelled through him as he kissed her back fully before his smile broke it, that excited flutter returning.
"C'mon. Got a little somethin' to show you."
Lucy hooked her arm through his as he led her along the boardwalk, enjoying the sound of the soft rippling water around them, passing some small shops until they reached the front of a large restaurant that sat right on the waterfront.
"I thought we'd enjoy some early dinner out here," Natsu smiled and turned towards her. "Since it gets dark early now, I thought it'd be perfect for catching the sunset too."
Lucy's bright eyes are wide and take in everything around them, squeezing his arm to her. "Natsu… this is beautiful," she breathed.
The view Lucy made beside him had Natsu thinking the same.
"So are you." Natsu lifted their laced hands, pressing a kiss to the back of hers before they made their way inside, liking that soft smile that highlighted the pink dusting on her cheeks.
He let the hostess know they had a reservation and they stood along a wall nearby.
A lot of people seemed to have the same idea tonight when Natsu took a look at the crowd around, making him glad that he made a reservation, but the atmosphere felt warm. He'd heard it was a really good, fairly new Japanese restaurant so he hoped Lucy liked it.
"Even reservations and everything? Really had this up your sleeve didn't you, commander?"
Natsu laughed at her teasing smile, wrapping his arm behind her waist to hold her against him.
"Just a little."
The hostess soon led them towards one of the few more private tables that lined the outdoor patio outside that overlooked the glistening water and docks, leaving them with some menus to look over.
"This view," Lucy sighed contently, turning towards the scenery beside them. "You didn't have to do all this, Natsu. Our coffee date earlier was good enough," she said, reaching out to grasp over his hand.
"Of course I did. C'mon, you're worth being a little pampered, Luce," Natsu smiled warmly, turning his hand over to lace their fingers together.
Lucy chuckled lightly, tucking some of her hair behind her ear. "Well, when you put it that way, and if it's with you I think I can," she smiled wider. "I feel like I should've gotten more dressed up though."
Natsu matched her bright grin with a reassuring squeeze to her hand. "As I said earlier, you look beutiful, don't worry."
She gave him a soft look and they talked about everything they had their eye on from the menu and then a tall man soon approached their table.
"Hi, thank you for waiting. My name's Yuki and I'll be your waiter this evening," the man greeted with a smile. "Any drinks or food to get started?"
Natsu greeted him happily and put in an order for some appetizers, of course, and Lucy laughed, not letting him forget about the drinks.
"Sounds good. I'll get those started for you. And if I may say, I couldn't help but notice your uniform, sir. I wanted to thank you for your service," Yuki said warmly.
"Oh, thank you," Natsu grinned sheepishly, scratching the back of his neck. "No need for sir, it's nothin' much, just dusted it off for a special night tonight."
"He likes to be humble," Lucy chuckled. "I've told him it's a bit bigger than nothing."
"It definitely is! I'll be sure to put in a special note for you guys and be back soon!"
Yuki left to check on some other tables and Natsu breathed out a deep sigh of content with a soft smile after they shared a light laugh, looking over the view beside them again.
He definitely picked a good time, with the colorful sky of the fully setting sun now blending into the evening and with Lucy across from him so beautiful, he can't help but feel so lucky that they're here in this moment together. The cool breeze was soothing, and his heart felt so full.
Natsu looked back and found Lucy already looking at him fondly with her jaw resting in her palm.
"Everything ok?"
"Yup. Great. Enjoying this even better view," Lucy said, with a teasing curl of those plush lips.
"You mean the one out there?" Natsu smirked with a tilt of his head.
"Mm, no I'm admiring the one in front of me more right now."
His smirk turned toothy, a prideful warmth swelling in his chest.
"I'm enjoying the one in front of me too."
Their food came pretty quickly after Yuki had come back to take their main order and everything looked just as good as the menu described it and Natsu's eyes lit up at the large portions.
"Mm, this all looks so good," Lucy gushed. "I hope we didn't get too much."
Natsu eagerly looked over their variety of plates, ending up going for a bit of everything. "No such thing, Luce. You know it'll all be gone and we may have to order more."
"Right. I do know that." Lucy laughed a warm, full laugh that made his heart swell and they happily dug in.
"Mm, this place was definitely worth it," Natsu murmured around another piece of sushi.
"Definitely. Has it always been here?" Lucy asked, taking more steady bites of her curry chicken that also looked really good.
"It's been a while since I've been down here, but think it used to be a small burger place. I came across it when I was lookin' up new restaurants, so guess they really fixed it up here. Good excuse for us to come back," Natsu grinned, trying out some of the tempura veggies.
"Looking forward to it already," Lucy agreed eagerly.
Dinner carried on happily, both finishing off several of their plates quickly. With bright smiles and laughs in between.
Natsu told her about the time when he was actually stationed at a base in Japan for a while. Her eyes lit up and wishes to make it there someday herself. He tucked the info away for now. It would be nice to make it back there too one day.
"That was so good. I think I might actually be full," Natsu groaned, leaning back in his chair after one of the staff cleared off their plates.
"Hm, I'd bet money on not."
"Hi, guys! Hope everything was okay. Got this here whenever you're ready, no rush. And this little something sweet on the house," Yuki smiled brightly when he walked over to them again, setting the envelope check on the table along with a plate of dessert.
Natsu instantly perked up at that, looking over what seemed to be some matcha crepes.
"Everything was amazing, thank you," Natsu said. "We were just saying we're already making a plan to come back soon."
"Great to hear! It was our pleasure. Hope you have a great rest of your night!"
They thanked Yuki again before preparing to dig into the dessert, but Lucy pulled the plate towards her before he could get his fork near it.
"You literally just said you were full so I think I should get it."
"Luceeee," Natsu pouted dramatically. "I take it back. I actually have some room." He patted his belly for proof.
A toothy grin twitched on his lips at her happy laugh.
"Alright, alright," she relented, setting the plate back in the middle of the table. Natsu lit up when he quickly got a good bite in, making her shake her head fondly.
"Yup. Definitely had room."
Natsu eventually settled their bill, leaving Yuki a good tip and they made their way back outside, satisfied and content. Lucy slipped her hand in his as they walked back along the boardwalk, stopping at the small local bakery they passed by earlier to get some treats for the road.
"You and you're bottomless stomach," Lucy'd giggled.
Natsu had laughed. He couldn't really disagree there.
"Can we enjoy the view out here for a bit longer," Lucy asked softly with a squeeze to his arm. "It's such a nice night."
Natsu grinned and agreed easily, settling on one of the benches by the railing that overlooks the lake.
It really was too. The moon was bright in the sky and an even better view of the sprinkling of stars above them, boats swaying along the dock across from them.
There's a nice crisp chill in the air, bit colder than when they got here and Natsu catches Lucy shivering a little.
"Cold? Here, you can wear my jacket."
Lucy tried to insist she wasn't, but Natsu stood to unbutton his jacket anyway and draped it over her shoulders.
"You know I always run warm anyway," Natsu waved off, sitting back beside her and resting his arm behind her back along the bench to hold her close.
"True," Lucy chuckled.
Natsu looked over to admire her profile, the soft light from the lampposts around them making her hair glow. Her expression was content, but her eyes were seemingly lost in thought.
He squeezed her shoulder that was under his palm. "Everything okay, Lucy?"
Lucy's gaze quickly found his. "Oh, yeah," she breathed an airy laugh, reaching up to lace their fingers together. "Just taking in everything from today. It was perfect and so fun, thank you."
"I'm glad. I was happy to 'cause just- just being able to be with you fully like this has been… everything." Natsu moved his arm from around her to thread their hands together between them, thumb brushing along her inner wrist. "You… you kept me goin' over there y'know," he said softly, looking back into those pretty honey eyes. "There were so many days I was struggling to make it through the day and a lot of nights I couldn't sleep, and I would think about you and your smile, your laugh and it would feel like everything else just faded away. I missed you so much and I ached to hug you, just hold your hand like this, wondering how it would feel to kiss you…"
Lucy breathed a soft choked laugh, some tears quickly escaping.
"Luce," he rasped, a pang of worry throbbing through his chest, fearing he said something wrong. His brows pinched in concern as he reached up and caressed her cheek with his other hand. Rough thumb brushing away the wet trail on her skin.
"They're happy tears I promise," Lucy said with a breathy laugh. She leaned into his touch before her other hand rested over their connected ones. "I felt the same way. You were always on my mind, hoping you were safe out there. I missed your big laugh, your smile, your warm hugs, and lame jokes," Lucy laughed softly, her smile turning teasing, making one grow on Natsu's lips too. "I missed you , and I craved to be with you like this too. You're my best friend and it feels like home when I'm with you, Natsu," she said softly, thumb rubbing the back of his hand. "And as much as I love this friendship and always will, it feels so right stepping into this something more with you that I think has always been there. I was just a little blind to my heart for a while," she grinned, moving to caress his cheek.
Natsu turned towards her fully, affection swelling warmly in his chest as he leaned into her touch.
"I was pretty blind to my heart and feelings too, so I'm sorry it took me a while," Natsu chuckled. "But deep down, I think I knew it's always been you, Luce. I've never felt the way I feel about you for anyone else. Think it could've been even after that night we met and you knocked my drink into me," he grinned teasingly at her cute pout.
"You'll never let me live that down will you?"
"Nope," he laughed before his expression softened. "But I came to terms with everything I've felt for you since then and how much my feelings had grown and just what it all meant, but then thinking you wouldn't feel the same, only to find you really did all that time too," he breathed an airy laugh, thumb brushing over the back of her hand. "I still feel like I don't deserve you, but I'd always do anything and everything for you, Luce, if it means seeing you smile and be happy."
A strong wave of affection tightened his chest as he looked back at her warmly. He still carried some doubts if he was doing things right at times, if he was doing too much or too little for her, but this wonderful woman in his arms liked him for him and he felt so lucky to have her in his life.
It really could be the start of something amazing for them. What they had already felt so genuine and meaningful, built on a foundation of strong trust and friendship, and his heart ready to take that leap into whatever life had in store for them.
"Natsu…" Lucy breathed, thumb brushing along his jaw. "Of course I do. You're an amazing person and how could I not fall for you," she smiled warmly. "The girls had told me so many times that I had a crush on you, and I would think maybe, but then I would just say that was just our close friendship," she smiled. "My feelings had grown so much too before I realized it and I had so many butterflies when I saw you after you came back. I was so happy you got back safe and to just be able to hug you again, and I was secretly happy that we just spent time at your house on our own that night and I really couldn't brush the feelings aside anymore," she chuckled softly. "Then that day we went on the trail felt different, special, then we kissed and my heart felt like it would burst from my chest. I've never felt like this for anyone either. You always deserve to be happy, Natsu, and I would do anything for you too."
Those honeyed chocolate eyes held such strong affection, Natsu had to breathe out a shuddered breath, swallowing past the emotion growing in his throat.
"You're the amazing one, Luce," he rasped, a smile growing. "I had so many hints from Gray and the guys and my heart, until it really set in for me too, but I'm just glad we have each other now."
Lucy's expression softened. "Me too, Natsu," she whispered between them, fingers threading through the hair at the nape of his neck, sending a pleasant shiver down his spine.
She pulled him in gently. Natsu followed easily until their lips met. The kiss unhurried, flavor sweet on his tongue.
Natsu sighed into her, wrapping an arm around her, bringing her flush against him, deepening the kiss. She fit against him so perfectly.
They parted after several blissful moments, his lips still tingling as his thumb traced her plush bottom lip.
Natsu gave her one more sweet kiss that they smiled into before he wrapped his arm back around her and Lucy leaned her head on his shoulder, face in the crook of his warm neck. He kissed her temple as fingers came up to thread through her soft locks as they enjoy the view and each other's warmth for a while longer until they decided to head back.
Natsu took familiar roads back and happened to pass by the main park square when they got closer to Lucy's apartment, seeing a large crowd around a tall tree.
"Oh, I forgot they were lighting up the big Christmas tree tonight! Did you wanna stop and watch?" Natsu asked.
Lucy happily agreed and Natsu found a parking in the lot nearby where they still had a good view of the tree.
"We can just watch from here? More comfy since it feels more chilly out now."
"Sure. We can finish the stuff from the bakery."
"Good idea," Natsu grinned eagerly.
Natsu looked ahead as Lucy pulled open their bag of treats. More people seemed to have gathered around the large tree. It'd been a while since Natsu had stopped by to see it in person like this, only happening to see it already lit up on nights he would drive by and it would dawn on him that the holiday season had come up again.
He hadn't really put too much thought into the holidays over the years, the days usually passing by in a blur. Though right now, with the scent of nearby fireplaces that lingered in the crisp air through the windows, lights and decorations strung up around town, and the radiant company by his side it felt like the holidays could actually be good this year.
"I haven't really done much for the holidays in a couple years, but... maybe we could spend them together this year?" Natsu asked a little softly. "Since I'm actually home for them this time." An airy laugh left him, running a hand through his hair.
"I would love to, thank you." Lucy reached over to give his hand a warm squeeze, and the affectionate look she gave him make his heart swell.
"Can't wait," Natsu grinned brightly, tearing into his bag and taking a large bite into the crumbly coffee cake, savoring the cinnamon sugar on his tongue.
"Natsu," Lucy giggled. "You would get the messiest thing."
Natsu laughed around his cake as she brushed off the crumbs from his chest as he leaned over to give her a sloppy kiss to her cheek.
"Hey!" she squeaked, brushing off her cheek. "Gross," she murmured, an amused smile twitching on her lips.
Natsu smirked as Lucy reached over to shove his shoulder playfully. A comfortable silence settled around them as they finished their treats.
Soon, they heard the crowd ahead of them counting down, cheering as the massive tree lit up with bright strands of twinkling of whites, blues, greens, and reds swirled around the branches, with a bright large star on top.
"The star is on, quick make a wish," Lucy smiled brightly. "As my mom would say."
"Hm, oh Christmas star, how I wish Lucy would do me the honor of being my girlfriend," Natsu said dramatically, reaching out to the bright star on top of the tree, unable to help a toothy grin from growing.
"You big goof," Lucy laughed fully, leaning over to rest against him, feeling both of their laughter vibrating through them. "I think that wish already came true," she said softer after a moment.
Natsu looked over and those deep honeyed eyes captivated him again and he easily followed his heart's pull to lean in closer.
"And I can't describe how happy that makes me," he smiled softly, reaching up to curl her hair around her ear before his thumb brushed along her jaw. "I'm all yours too," he whispered between them before closing the distance and caught her lips in a warm, slow kiss.
Lucy sighed into him, tilting her head to deepen the kiss. Soft fingers found their way into his hair, and when he felt her warm tongue brush along his bottom lip and slide along his for a moment, it instantly sent a tingle down Natsu's spine.
A soft sound escaped him, setting a palm at her waist to hold her flush against him. He could hear his heart pounding in his ears, still never getting tired of this feeling.
Breaking away after a few more lingering, deep kisses, Natsu rested his forehead against Lucy's, both wearing bright grins as they caught their breath.
"You're… you're really good at that," Lucy admitted, fingers trailing along his tie, cute pink on her cheeks and a bite to her bottom lip
"Really?" Natsu huffed a laugh. "I'm mainly just following your amazing lead."
Lucy's smile grew, turning her head into the crook of his neck as the color darkened on her cheeks. "Can't help it sometimes," she murmured.
Natsu laughed warmly, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "Me too. Let's get you home."
He parked along Lucy's familiar building, preparing for their night to be over when Lucy asks, "Did you want to come up and watch something?"
"Are you sure? It's okay if you're tired or anything?"
"Yeah, of course. We can continue that show we started and… and you can stay over if you want," Lucy said a little softer. "Think I still have some of that spicy popcorn of yours if you're still hungry."
One look at that warm smile and hopeful honey eyes and as if he would ever say no.
"In that case, that sounds perfect," Natsu agreed brightly.
They gathered their things from the truck, Natsu grabbing the duffel he thankfully packed just in case, and headed up and got settled back in her apartment.
Natsu set his bag down and leaned against the arm of the couch, smiling as he admired just how good she made his jacket look on her as she put her things away and set the jacket gently on the back of one of the dining chairs.
"Do you wanna keep the uniform? Looks way better on you."
Lucy breathed out a laugh, curling some of her hair behind her ear with a shake of her head. "Sure. I'm gonna go change."
"I wasn't joking!" Natsu said through his own laugh as she went down the short hall to her room.
That light feeling lingered in his chest as he moved to toe off his shoes and take off his tie, sighing in comfort.
He got some snacks ready for them on the coffee table just as Lucy walked back in, looking just as beautiful in her comfy clothes. That included the hoodie he gave her recently, the sight making his heart swell.
Natsu changed into his comfier clothes too and Lucy gave him a teasing smile for thinking ahead and bringing his duffel.
"Hey, can't blame me. Your couch is too comfy and I fall asleep every time I come over, so I wanted to be prepared," Natsu huffed, settling into a corner of the couch.
Lucy hummed, flopping down next to him after turning on the tv. "Hm, you're right, but you're comfier," she sighed happily, resting her head on his shoulder.
Natsu chuckled warmly. The show they had on continued in the background and Natsu wrapped his arm around her and breathed in deep, letting Lucy's warmth and comforting scent surround him.
It had turned out to be a good day. A really good day, and he was already looking forward to where they went from here.
Hope you liked their first official date! You know Natsu had to do something special for her ;)
Thanks for reading!