Hi! Hope your year is still going well! Feel like it's going by fast already! Though, I feel like I say that every year lol, but time really does feel like a blur these days ugh
I know it's been a while, but wanted to get this chapter for April, my birthday month at least! Yay for upcoming Taurus season!
Thanks for sticking around and hope some feels and fluff with our fave couple helps your days!
It was the start of summer now, the middle of June, and Lucy seemed to be holding up better after everything with her father as they got back to their everyday routine.
She had finished up the school year in May and other than being busy with her everyday work, she was taking advantage of a much needed break that Natsu insisted she enjoy.
They drove over to the lake often, enjoying the warm nights and late setting sun with bright laughs and lingering kisses. Sometimes their friends tagged along, but it was often just them and Lucy would show him the bright constellations that emerged when the sky turned dark, laying on a blanket in bed of his truck until it got late.
He loved the way her expression lit up as bright as the stars above them, happily sharing something new she'd learned that excited her.
His heart would swell with affection and love and he couldn't resist kissing that radiant smile, happy that she was following her dream and going after something she was passionate about.
They also enjoyed spending relaxing days in. Nothing planned, easy and slow, enjoying each other's company. Like this afternoon, they were lounging on the couch after a late breakfast. Natsu found a random show he came across, feet propped up on the coffee table as he slumped into the comfy cushions behind him. Lucy's legs were resting on his lap as she already became absorbed in her new book, his thumb tracing shapeless patterns on her shin, Happy curled up on her stomach purring away.
He could almost fall asleep like this, home, comfortable, beside his favorite person's warmth. His eyes fluttered closed at the thought with a content sigh. Just to rest his eyes.
He vaguely felt both of their phones vibrate. Probably Sting with another meme to their group chat.
He heard Lucy gasp softly after a moment, patting his shoulder with a call of his name.
Natsu hummed in acknowledgment, feeling her pull her legs from his lap and making him miss the touch.
"Natsu," Lucy said more urgently with another squeeze to his shoulder and it was enough for him to put him on alert.
He snapped his eyes open, quickly looking over, worry welling up in him at the concern that lined Lucy's expression.
"What's wrong?" he asked, sitting up and reaching over to grasp her hand.
"I-It was from Gajeel. Levy's having complications and went into early labor. They're at the hospital now."
Natsu felt a sharp ache throb in his chest. Levy was supposed to be due next month in July, and he knew how excited the couple had been lately for the babies, so it hurt to think something might be wrong towards the end now, a month early.
He cursed softly, grabbing his phone after seeing some of their friends were responding quickly, saying they were on their way.
"Should we head over too?"
"Yeah, I'm not going to be able to relax while they're there," Lucy sighed, wringing her fingers together.
"Me too, but hey, they'll all be okay." Natsu gave her a soft reassuring smile with a squeeze to her hand before they quickly went upstairs to freshen up and head out.
Several of their friends were already there when they got up to the waiting room.
Erza was pacing back and forth where the group was gathered in the corner, pausing when she saw them walk in and pulling both of them into a tight hug right away.
They went around and gave hugs to the rest of the group. Sting was already a little teary eyed. Natsu smiled softly and gave him a reassuring hug. Even Gray was fidgeting in his seat, settling a little when Natsu squeezed his shoulder.
"Any updates?" Lucy asked, worry still in her voice as she took a seat in one of the chairs.
"Not much since we got here," Lisanna sighed, running a hand through her short hair.
"The last thing Gajeel came out and told us was that Levy was going in for emergency C-section and he's been in there with her ever since," Rogue added softly, setting a steadying hand on Sting's bouncing knee.
Lucy breathed a shaky sigh and Natsu settled into the chair beside her, reaching over to grasp her hand and give it a reassuring squeeze.
"She's a tough one. I know she'll pull through. They all will."
She turned and gave him a warm, grateful smile, relaxing a bit at his words and lacing their fingers together and set their hands on her lap.
The group eased a bit at that too.
"Natsu's right. We've all pulled through a hell of a lot, them too. They know we're here giving all our love and support and I'm sure they can feel it," Cana said.
Erza nodded in agreement and sighed. "And we'll give them everything we can." Jellal stepped closer and held her shoulder.
"Of course," Gray added, Juvia agreeing beside him.
The group tried to keep things positive after that, with lighter conversation in between coffee and snack runs and after what felt like endless hours, afternoon blending into evening, Gajeel suddenly bounded into the waiting room, startling everyone.
"They're okay. All of them," he rasped, leaning against the door frame as he caught his breath.
"Oh, I'm so glad!" Lucy and Lisanna cheered together.
"Me too," he said, voice cracking with a shaky deep relieved breath, running a hand through his messy hair.
It was obvious they left in a rush from the state of Gajeel's random, rumpled clothes, but Natsu could see the happiness welling up in Gajeel's eyes as he tried to stay strong, but as soon as everyone gathered around him and wrapped him in a tight hug, he huffed a rough laugh and let the emotions break across his face. With a few rare tears.
"How are the twins? Did you get to see or hold them?" Erza asked after Gajeel seemed to gather himself a bit, some worry still in her voice.
"We only did for a little bit before they took them to the nicu, but... but they're perfect and beautiful," Gajeel sighed, with a soft smile before his expression shifted. "We're not sure how long they have to stay yet, but they're moving Levy to another room to recover, so I'll let you guys know when you can go up and see her."
The group agreed easily and gave him messages to give to Levy before he went back upstairs.
"What a relief," Sting sighed, slumping back down into his chair, the others following.
Lucy turned to hug Natsu and he was quick to wrap his arms around her and hold her tighter.
"I was so worried. So much could happen," she whispered roughly against his shoulder.
"It's okay," Natsu soothed, kissing the side of her head and smoothing a palm down her back.
"But I'm so happy everything's okay," Lucy sighed, honey eyes a bit glossy when she pulled back.
Natsu grinned warmly, reaching up to curl some of her hair behind her ear.
A couple hours later, none of the group had left of course and were taking turns visiting the new parents once Levy was settled enough.
"Lucy!" Levy grinned brightly as soon as they walked in.
"Hi!" Lucy leaned over and wrapped Levy in a gentle hug, Natsu stepping up after her.
"Hi, Natsu," she said warmly, hugging around his shoulders. "Thank you both for coming, you didn't have to stay all this time!"
"Of course!" Lucy smiled brightly.
"None of them wanted to go home," Gajeel chuckled, looking over at Levy fondly where he sat on the bed beside her.
"As if we would," Natsu grinned, making Levy laugh with a shake of her head.
"How are you feeling? Gajeel said the babies have to stay up in the nicu?" Lucy asked, some concern in her voice.
"Tired, sore," Levy huffed a laugh, before her expression saddened a little. "But they do. The doctors want to keep an eye on them in the incubators since they were early. I'm just more sad they can't be here with us yet. I feel like I should be doing more. I miss them already," she sighed, eyes becoming glossy. "They're so small, but beautiful and perfect. Sorry, my emotions are just everywhere," she breathed through a watery laugh and brushed off some stray tears.
"You don't have to apologize for that," Lucy reassured warmly, reaching over to grasp Levy's hand. "I'm just glad you're all okay. Had us all worried," she smiled softly, fond relief in her eyes. "I hope you get to bring them home soon."
"I know they'll pull through. They have tough parents," Natsu added warmly.
"Thank you. Both of you." Levy dried off her eyes again with a steady breath. "I was kind of hoping they'd share your birthday month, Lucy, but they had other plans," she chuckled. "Oh! We did get to take some pictures when we held them for the first time."
Gajeel slid open his phone, expression instantly softening as soon as he did, making Natsu hold back a smirk.
His friend was such a softie for them already. Rightfully so.
"Look at them," Lucy gasped softly when Levy flicked through some photos. "So cute! Such a beautiful family already."
Natsu looked over Lucy's shoulder, feeling his grin widen at the small bundles in the couple's arms, warmth swelling in his chest.
"Levy's a natural already. You could use some work, dude," Natsu couldn't help but tease.
Levy giggled at Gajeel's roll of his eyes, but patted his hand. "Don't worry. He's so head over heels for them already, he's going to be just fine."
They share a fond look, making Natsu share one with Lucy.
"We'll let you rest up. Know it's been a long day," Natsu said after they caught up for a bit longer.
"We can't wait to officially meet them." Lucy gave Levy's hand a warm squeeze.
"Thank you guys, me too," Levy grinned brightly, settling back into the pillows behind her.
They said their goodbyes with more hugs and Lucy looped her arm through Natsu's on the way back down to the parking structure.
"The first of our friends to be parents," Lucy sighed. "Guess the real adult stage of our lives is starting," she grinned, hugging his arm closer.
"Being a real adult? I didn't sign up for that," Natsu huffed playfully.
Lucy laughed brightly. "I don't think I did either, but it doesn't look like we have much of a choice. We can get through it together, though, don't worry," she said, leaning up to kiss his cheek when they reached the truck.
"Sounds good to me," Natsu said with a fanged grin.
Levy and Gajeel kept them all updated and as a couple more weeks passed, their group chat was filled with endless pictures of the twins, officially introduced as Ellie and Aiden. More so after the new parents were finally able to bring them home.
They were the first to have kids in their group of friends so of course everyone gushed over them. Surely going to be spoiled by everyone too, especially during the holidays probably, but Natsu enjoyed the way Lucy would light up with each photo.
His chest would swell with warm affection each time… with something more he couldn't quite place. For now.
"So, your birthday's comin' up soon. Anything you wanna do, Luce?" Natsu asked one night, walking over to toss his clothes in the hamper after a refreshing shower since he'd done some work in the garage today.
Lucy was already relaxed and settled in bed, propped up against the pillows. She paused her scrolling on her phone and looked up at him with a soft smile, pretty as ever.
"Hm, I haven't really thought about it much. Something simple? I'm up for anything as long as it's with you."
Natsu grinned, leaning over to press a kiss to the top of her head before settling into bed beside her.
He wanted to do something special since he wasn't able to be here for Lucy's birthday last year, but as long as she was happy that's all that mattered.
"We could have something here that weekend? Invite everyone? It'll be warm so we could do something out in the back if you want."
Lucy hummed, her smile growing as she laced their fingers together between them. "I think having everyone here could be fun. We haven't done that yet."
"Yeah, it's been a long time since there's been something here and they've all been over," Natsu chuckled.
"Sounds like a plan then." Lucy tilted her head up to look at him, those pools of warm honey capturing his heart as they always did.
"Whatever your heart desires, princess. I'll get all your favorite foods too," he smirked.
"More like you're favorites," Lucy laughed, thumb brushing over his knuckles.
"Me? I would never."
"Mhm, sure," Lucy hummed, reaching out to pull him in for a soft kiss that they smiled into.
"Does sound fun actually. Sure everyone is wanting to see the kids in person too if Levy brings them over," Natsu laughed softly, settling lower on the bed.
"Aw, that's right!" Lucy smiled. "I know they've been busy, so it'll be good for them to enjoy themselves a bit. Oh, we should let Igneel know too. It'll be good to see him."
Natsu hummed in acknowledgment, already feeling the tugs of sleep, eyes getting heavy with a yawn.
"Mm, yeah of course. Anything you want, Luce," he murmured, eyes fluttering closed as he turned onto his side and tucked his head into his soft pillow.
He heard Lucy's soft laugh, feeling her turn to flick off the lamp on her side before tucking herself into his arms.
Natsu breathed a content sound. "Night. Love you."
Lucy sighed deeply too, pressing a kiss to his heart over his shirt where her head was resting against his chest.
"Love you too, mon cœur," she whispered.
Natsu smiled sleepily at the name they've gotten into the habit of calling each other when they were feeling particularly sappy, his heart swelling with love as he kissed the top of her hair. He pulled her closer before the pull of sleep finally took over.
The next morning, Natsu sat on one of the chairs at the island counter with some fresh soothing tea as Lucy was in the shower upstairs getting ready for work.
He smiled to himself, remembering their plans from last night and sliding open his phone.
BBQ at our place this Saturday for Luce's birthday weekend. Be there or be square
He didn't have to wait too long before the replies started to come in, despite realizing it's still a little early.
Yay! Can't wait! Lisanna replied quickly.
We'll be there! From Levy.
Sounds fun, we'll be there too. Erza said.
Sting, Gray and the rest also replied, making Natsu smile wider at the thought of having the house full with all their friends to celebrate his favorite girl.
He sent a text to Igneel and he was quick to happily agree too.
Lucy came down the stairs after a while, chuckling at her phone from the string of texts.
"Be there or be square?" she laughed, rolling her eyes playfully as she walked over to where he was at the counter and set her stuff down.
"Well, yeah. Gotta make them commit," Natsu cackled, standing and wrapping his arms around her and leaning back against the counter, taking a moment to admire the way the dark gold blouse she wore highlighted her curves and brightened her eyes.
"They seem excited though," Lucy grinned.
"Of course, you are worthy of celebrating after all."
Her smile brightened, pulling him in for a sweet kiss.
Natsu sighed into it, content warmth flowing through to his bones, easily kissing her back deeper, with a few more lingering ones.
"Mm, you're gonna make me late for work," Lucy whispered between them, fingers sifting through his hair, Natsu catching a glint of want in her eyes.
"Maybe that was my plan all along," he smirked against her addicting lips.
She laughed softly, pulling back and brushing her thumbs along his jaw. "I only have to work three days this week then we can enjoy the whole long weekend together."
"But I'll still miss you, Natsu groaned and pouted playfully, holding onto her waist to try and keep her close.
Lucy giggled, patting his chest. "You'll be okay, you big baby. Call Gray over if you get too lonely."
He pouted deeper and his heart swelled at the sound of her full laughter. His favorite.
Natsu reached over and grabbed the travel mug Lucy usually used.
"Got some coffee ready for you."
"Aw, thank you," she smiled brightly. "Always so sweet, commander." She leaned over to press a kiss to his cheek, taking the mug.
"I try," Natsu chuckled, grin shifting into a smirk at his next tease. "Hope you have a good day, babe."
"You too, babe," Lucy teased, before her expression softened. "You know it's okay to take it easy. Get some rest." She reached up to thread her fingers through his hair. "Know you've been having some rough days lately."
Natsu leaned into her soothing touch with a soft, content sigh. "I will."
He knew he had the bad habit of pushing himself a little too much sometimes. Especially when he felt a little frustrated when the rough days took him out for longer than he liked.
But, his Lucy was always right there to settle his mind and make him feel grounded again, reminding him that the slow days were just as important.
The week quickly passed and soon enough it was Friday morning and a certain someone's special day was finally here.
Natsu slowly sat up over the edge of the bed with a groan from a long stretch just as Lucy walked back into the room, smiling that bright smile he loved.
"Hey, handsome. You're finally up."
"Mornin'," he grinned happily, voice still a little raspy as he ran a hand through his messy hair. "You're the one who was supposed to be sleepin' in today. Shoulda woke me up," he yawned.
Lucy laughed softly, padding over until she was in front of him, wrapping her arms around his shoulders. "It's okay. I haven't been up for too long, but figured I'd let you get your beauty sleep."
Natsu hummed, slipping his arms around her waist and pulling her close. She was still in her comfy clothes, and the domestic look still made his chest warm.
He narrowed his eyes at her playfully, but the way her palms drifted across his shoulders then into his hair quickly melted away any last bit of tension he was carrying.
"Happy birthday, Luce," Natsu said softly, thumbs brushing along the soft material at her hips.
The deep reflection of adoration in those honeyed brown eyes still managed to make his stomach flutter.
It made him feel so lucky every time.
"Thank you," Lucy smiled warmly, leaning in to give him a tender kiss as her thumb tracing over the scar along his jaw gently. "I'm happy you get to be here to spend it with me this time."
"Me too," he grinned wider against her lips before kissing her deeper, liking the way she sighed into him.
They managed to make it down to the kitchen after he freshened up too, where Natsu was starting on a big special breakfast. He set a fresh cup of coffee in front of Lucy and she thanked him with a kiss to his jaw.
"So, I was thinkin', since everyone's coming over tomorrow, we can spend today just us and I can have you all to myself," Natsu grinned toothily, wrapping his arms around Lucy's waist and pulling her in close as he held her against the counter.
Lucy laughed brightly, curling her arms up around his neck. "Hmm, that does sound fun. I take you might have something planned already?"
"Mm, I just might." He leaned in to give her a slow kiss. "But anything you wanna do first?"
They take a drive after finishing up breakfast and spend most of the day relaxing by their spot by the lake after stopping by the bookstore first for a couple things Lucy wanted.
Natsu had taken some food of course and they enjoyed the cool breeze that skimmed off the water at a picnic table under a large tree.
He may have also gotten a little playful in the water when they padded through barefoot at the water's edge, soaking Lucy a bit and making her run after him to try and get some payback.
She wasn't as successful as he'd been, with the element of surprise on his side, but their bright full laughter and happy kisses under the warm sun filled his heart with so much content love.
The day had blended into early evening by the time they made it back home. They were going to get cleaned up since Natsu told Lucy he'd made some reservations at the nicer restaurant they first went to when he got back this time.
Was it also an excuse for them to dress up and get to see her effortless beauty shine again?
Yes.
Lucy was finishing up in the bathroom while he rustled through the closet for a good suit, deciding on his charcoal gray one with a black button down.
Natsu saw Lucy walk back into the room from the corner of his eye as he was attempting to get his tie right in the long mirror.
"Almost done, just trying to get this dumb tie ri-"
The rest of his words left his brain as soon as he looked over and saw her.
"Wow…" Natsu breathed, hands dropping to his sides as his eyes lingered over her full form in front of him and the way the midnight blue dress hugged all her curves just right.
No matter how many times they'd gotten all dressed up to go out, she never failed to take his breath away in anything she wore.
Tonight was no exception.
"It's a bit of a new dress I wanted to try, looks ok?" Lucy asked with a small smile, fixing one of her earrings with a soft blush on her cheeks.
Natsu swallowed thickly, remembering how to form words. "Ok? You're gorgeous as ever."
Her flush darkened a little as her smile grew, honeyed eyes brightening as she stepped closer to him.
"Thank you. Need some help there?"
It took a moment for his brain to catch up to Lucy's words, her palms smoothing over his chest and gripping the ends of the loose tie.
"Hm? Oh, yeah. Seems like it," he huffed a laugh.
"Have I mentioned how much I love this black shirt and suit combo on you," Lucy said, glint of playfulness and appreciation in her eyes as she slowly wrapped the tie in a twist of motions.
Natsu's lips curled into a prideful smirk. "You may have. And it may have been a factor in my color choice tonight."
Lucy's smile grew. "What a nice treat." She pulled him down by the finished knot of the tie for a slow kiss.
Natsu hummed into it, pulling her flush against him. "This is nicer," he murmured against her plush lips.
They eventually managed to finish getting ready, taking their things downstairs.
Natsu looked over, smiling at the vase of sunflowers on the counter.
He'd made a stop at the flower shop before they got back, much to Lucy's insistence he didn't have to, but of course he did. How could he pass that up.
Though, it reminded him of another part of her gift.
"Before we go, I got you a little somethin', but I gotta show it to you out back," Natsu said, clasping the watch on his wrist.
"Natsu, you didn't have to," Lucy breathed a laugh, setting her purse on the counter.
"'Course I did. You should know I will happily enjoy a reason to spoil you. C'mon," he grinned, wrapping an arm around her and leading her through the washroom out to the back patio, grabbing one more bag he'd set in the washroom to try and hide.
It was still a warmer evening and the late setting sun was melting the blues in the sky to softer pinks and oranges.
Natsu walked over to something tall and covered in the corner, telling Lucy she could take the cover off.
She did, with curious eyes that soon turned wide with a soft gasp. "Is this…"
"Your own stargazing telescope? Yeah," he grinned toothily, leaning against the railing.
Lucy stepped closer, her fingers trailing over the long lens that was already directed towards the faint stars above them. Expression in awe as she admired the tall scope on the tripod.
"And this too." Natsu set the large gift bag he was carrying into her hands and she gave him a look that only made him laugh.
She took out the box that was inside and looked up at him with more surprise before looking back down at the box that held a new camera, a couple different lenses and carrying case.
He really couldn't help himself when he was thinking about what to get her.
"I figured you'd need some good research stuff once you start getting into your harder classes. We get a good view of stars back here and now you have a scope and camera of your own to get some good shots," he grinned brightly.
"Natsu… T-This is too much," Lucy breathed out softly, eyes glossing over a bit.
Natsu stepped closer to grasp her hand. "You've worked so hard all year and are that much closer to your dream. You deserve nothing less," he said softly. "You're always worth everything, Luce."
Lucy set the bag down and breathed through a watery laugh, brushing a few stray tears that fell and reaching up to wrap her arms around his neck in a tight hug.
Natsu held her close, smiling into her hair, their embrace lasting a couple long, content moments before Lucy pulled back and held his face in her hands.
"You have an amazing heart. Do you know that?"
"I dunno about amazing," Natsu chuckled, curling her hair around her ear and caressing her cheek as his expression softened. "But all of it belongs to you. Happy birthday, my love."
That strong feeling in his chest swelled so much it felt like it could burst, and seeing that love reflected back at him was almost too much.
Lucy pulled him down for a deep kiss that sent a tingle down his spine. "I love you so much, Natsu," she whispered against him. "Thank you for all this. It's just… It means so much. You mean so much to me."
Natsu breathed a content sigh, resting his forehead against hers. "Love you so much too, Lucy. Always. You're everything."
They got to the restaurant just in time for their reservation after getting a little distracted with a couple more lingering slow kisses before they left.
The food was just as good as the first time, maybe even a little better when they brought them free desserts and sang to Lucy when he let it slip that they were celebrating her birthday.
She smiled sheepishly, but her expression was beautiful, happy, and bright, and it was all Natsu could ask for.
They walked around some of the shops at the night market they liked after, getting a couple more sweets and taking a couple pictures by the fountain under the lights.
Natsu wanted to indulge and be a little sappy so he wrote up something to go with one of the pictures and put it up on his instagram. To my love: happy birthday.
Lucy thanked him with another long kiss, both of them laughing when their phones started pinging with their friends commenting excitedly.
"So, did you enjoy your birthday?" Natsu asked as they took their time walking back to the truck, Lucy's arm hooked around his as she finished off her crepe in the other hand.
She hummed happily, hugging his arm closer. "I really did. You may just have topped yourself from last year."
"I'm glad," Natsu laughed at her playful smile, opening her door for her when he unlocked them. "Your faithful chariot, miss." He bowed dramatically and offered his hand to help Lucy step in.
She giggled softly, taking his hand to sit. "Thank you, kind sir."
"My pleasure," he smirked with a hand to his chest and secured her door. He tossed his suit jacket in the back seat and hopped into his side. "I'm really happy I got to spend the day with you this year," Natsu said softly after a quiet moment, turning towards her. "I feel like I missed so much this past deployment, always being gone for so long, I just... I wish all this was easier on you," he sighed, that soft ache of regret in his chest resurfacing.
"Hey," Lucy whispered, reaching over to tip his chin back towards her. "Being apart from you wasn't easy, but I've never once regretted a second of what we've shared. So, don't think like that. I know you were."
She finished with a loving tap of her finger to his nose that made him breathe out a soft laugh and just like that, he felt grounded again.
There was so much out of his control, but these moments with his favorite girl made everything worth it.
"Even overseas, you make me feel so special, loved, and cared for. It makes me miss you more, but makes what we have that much stronger and days like this feel more meaningful," Lucy added warmly, her thumb brushing over the scar along his jaw.
Natsu leaned into her touch, taking a steadying breath. "I promise to give you everything I have to make sure you always feel that way."
Lucy's expression softened as she leaned in closer. "And I promise the same for you."
He followed her pull until their lips met gently before Natsu added more pressure and quickly deepened the kiss, feeling the warmth of his conviction swell in his heart.
Natsu got them home safely, greeted by Happy's mrowls and Lucy thanked him again for the day with a tight hug. He smiled brightly and kissed her slow and meaningfully, and they spent the night wrapped in each other's arms, drinking in each other's soft sounds of pleasure and love.
They take their time and enjoy a slow morning the next morning.
Some coffee and light breakfast on the couch before they started cleaning up around the house before everyone was supposed to get there.
Natsu helped Lucy out in the kitchen before heading out to the backyard.
The sun was already strong and warm this morning, making him glad they updated the pergola on the back patio to enjoy some shade.
He'd tossed off his shirt half way through setting up a couple tables and umbrellas by the fire pit on the lawn from the garage.
He just finished cleaning off the patio and started brushing off the grill when he heard Lucy step through the back door.
Natsu turned to see she'd paused to lean against the door jam.
"What's up?" He grinned.
"Was just coming out to see if you needed help out here, but got a bit distracted by the good view."
He liked the confident, teasing smile she wore as her eyes trailed over him.
Natsu chuckled and grinned wolfishly, turning to face her fully and lean back against the wooden railing.
Maybe trying to flex a bit for her.
"You did, huh?"
"Maybe a little." She walked over until she was close to him, reaching up to trail fingertips over his bare collarbone, sending a tingle down his spine.
Natsu breathed a content sound, curling his arms around her waist and pulling her close.
"Always happy to be some good eye candy for you, babe." Natsu smirked at her giggle and roll of her eyes.
"Sweet as ever, commander."
"Anytime," he grinned, leaning in to press a sloppy kiss to her cheek before rubbing his head into the crook of her neck.
Lucy squeaked out a yelp through another bright giggle. "S-Stop you're all sweaty!"
Natsu laughed fully, holding her tightly so she couldn't go far.
He relented after a few moments, catching their breath.
"You're lucky we haven't cleaned up yet," she huffed, smile twitching on her lips, pushing her hair from her face that fell from her ponytail. Her eyes bright.
Cackling, Natsu's toothy grin grew, pressing a few slow kisses along her jaw until he reached her ear.
"Oh? So, you only like it when we get sweaty together like last night?" He rasped against the shell of her ear with a soft bite to her lobe the way she liked.
Warm pride swelled in his chest at the soft hitch in her breath at that.
"Enough, you. Let's finish this first," Lucy laughed, shaking her head, cupping his face to give him a chaste kiss before heading back towards the door and pausing. "But… just might take you up on that later though," she said with a playful smirk over her shoulder.
Natsu huffed a laugh as she went back into the house, warmth spreading fully through his chest.
Damn, he loved her so much.
He did finish cleaning up the grill and they tidied up some things inside before freshening up with some showers and getting changed.
Lucy was still upstairs when the doorbell chimed, so Natsu made his way over from the kitchen.
He grinned brightly when he pulled the door open and saw Igneel.
"Heya, kiddo," Igneel greeted happily, pulling Natsu in for a hug when he stepped through the doorway. "Hope I'm not too early."
"Hi, Dad. Nah, you're right on time." Natsu returned the hug tightly before they pulled back and helped him set the bags Igneel was carrying onto the counter. "Lucy's just finishing up upstairs."
"No worries," Igneel waved off, sitting on one of the chairs at the island, hooking his cane over the back of it.
"How've you been?" Natsu asked, popping open the plastic box of cookies and taking a large bite of one.
Igneel chuckled and shook his head. "Still impatient as ever for dessert."
"Any time of the day is good for dessert," Natsu smirked.
"Sure, sure," Igneel laughed fuller. "I've been good though. Still workin' at PT, but it's getting easier. Able to move a bit easier." He stretched out his leg, only a slight wince compared to the first time Natsu saw him again.
"That's awesome to hear," Natsu grinned. "You'll be good as new in no time, jumping up to go on your hikes."
"Ha, I doubt that," Igneel grinned widely.
Natsu heard footsteps on the stairs soon after, looking over to see Lucy making her way down and over.
She'd changed into some shorts and a light floral blouse, soft, golden hair flowing over her shoulder, and just seeing her made his heart all warm and fuzzy. Just as it always did.
"Lucy!" Igneel cheered, standing from the tall chair and opening up his arms.
"Hi, Igneel!" Lucy beamed, easily stepping into the hug.
"How's the birthday girl?"
"I'm doing great, thank you," Lucy grinned brightly after they pulled back.
"This guy still treating you right?" Igneel smirked with a nod of his head towards Natsu.
Lucy laughed brightly at Natsu rolling his eyes.
"Yes, he definitely is." She reached over to wrap her arms around his waist, giving him a warm squeeze.
"Always." Natsu sent a teasing poke of his tongue towards Igneel before he hugged her to his side with a kiss to her temple.
Igneel's full, warm laughter filled the room, just like it used to and it made Natsu smile wide.
He'd missed that sound.
Their friends started to trail in soon after that, hugs and birthday wishes for Lucy all around, and everyone had gathered in the kitchen by the time Levy and Gajeel got there with the kids, greeted with happy cheers.
"Oh my god, look at them!" Lisanna whispered excitedly, looking over the twins lovingly in their carriers Gajeel set on the dining table.
"They really are so beautiful and perfect," Lucy gushed beside her, fingertips lightly brushing over Ellie's small sock covered foot.
The twins had already grown so much from the first pictures they saw. Fuller, cute, chubby cheeks, heads full of brown and black hair.
"Can't believe you guys are parents! There's babies officially in the group now," Juvia grinned with bright eyes. "I can't wait to hold them."
"Don't worry, everyone will get some time with them once they wake up," Levy reassured. "We've learned the hard way not to interrupt nap time," she laughed, walking around the table to wrap Lucy in a tight hug with more birthday wishes.
Gajeel had walked back from putting their bags in the living room and looked down at the carriers on the table with such soft fondness he wasn't used to seeing on his brooding friend's face.
Despite Natsu noticing the tired lines on both new parent's faces, the happiness was evident and radiated from them and that made Natsu happy too.
"Hey there, dadio. How're ya holdin' up?" Natsu smirked, gripping Gajeel's shoulder when he walked up beside him.
Gajeel breathed a rumble of a laugh, shaking his head. "We haven't been sleeping much, but I'm good."
"They may be small right now, but soon they'll be running around and really making you work," Igneel laughed with a soft look at the twins.
Gajeel grinned, his large hand reaching over to adjust the blanket that was over Aiden's small form. "As long as all of them are happy and healthy, I'm content. As soon as I held them for the first time, I knew everything had changed."
"Wow. Look at you, sappy new father," Sting teased, making Gajeel roll his eyes.
"I think it's sweet," Erza came up and said warmly, looking over the babies fondly. "I can definitely see both of you in them."
"Really? Don't think they captured Gajeel's beauty at all," Gray teased with a playful smirk. Gajeel shoved Gray's shoulder lightly and the group laughed. "But really, congrats. We're all really happy for you guys." He gave Gajeel a solid pat on the back.
"Thank you. Maybe one of you will be next."
"I dunno, let's not rush anything," Gray chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly as they all share another laugh.
Natsu looked over and caught Lucy's eyes from where her and the rest of the girls were catching up in the kitchen, grinning wide as a strong swell of a feeling he couldn't quite pinpoint filled his heart, but when she smiled that bright smile back at him it was all he needed.
They started to migrate out to the backyard after a while, getting some food started on the grill thanks to Igneel, who insisted he take care of it.
Natsu brought him a stool to sit on, even though he insisted he was fine standing. That familiar stubbornness breaking through again, but soon everyone was loading up their plates with food and the yard was filled with bright laughter, conversation, and soft music in the background.
"I forgot how cozy the house is, Natsu. It's been too long!" Lisanna said, relaxing into one of the chairs on the deck. "I love how you guys fixed up this and the yard."
"Thanks, Lis," Natsu grinned, putting his arm up around behind Lucy to rest over the longer bench they were sitting on. "Things are so hectic when I'm gone, so slowly been fixing up some stuff around here, but this project turned out pretty good. Glad to have you guys all over again to enjoy it."
"All of us get so busy ugh. Just means we have to make more time to get together here," Lisanna added cheerfully, sipping her drink.
Lucy laughed. "I think we can do that." She looked up and shared a warm look with Natsu, leaning more into his side.
He returned the look softly, squeezing her shoulder.
"Look who's fed, changed, and happy now!"
They turned to see Levy walking back through the back door, this time with Ellie in her arms, Gajeel not too far behind with Aiden in his, walking over to them.
The twins had woken up a while ago and everyone had pampered them with attention as expected. Erza and Lisanna especially and Natsu had cackled at Jellal's flustered expression when Erza pushed one of the babies into his arms.
"Do you want to hold them?"
Oh. Maybe Jellal was right to feel all flustered after all.
"Ah, I dunno, Lev. It's been a long time since I've held a baby," Natsu chuckled, a little nervously, rubbing a palm over his chest and shifting in his seat.
"You'll be okay, Natsu," Levy reassured warmly. "They're tough little ones, and they gotta know their Uncle Natsu and Aunt Lucy more!"
Levy slowly lowered Ellie into his arms, directing him to support her head and where to place his arm.
Natsu let out a bit of a breathless laugh, his nerves easing a bit as a rush of affection welled up in him as he held this small amazing person.
"H-Hi, sweetie. Happy to finally meet you," he whispered, his other hand coming up to brush over her tiny hand that instinctively wrapped around his finger, light brown eyes looking up at him curiously.
"See, you're a natural," Levy grinned brightly. "You both are."
Natsu looked over to see Lucy was holding Aiden too and was already looking at Natsu, honeyed eyes full of adoration.
That strong feeling of something more filled his chest again at the sight Lucy made holding him, but he returned her warm smile for now.
"They're so cute and perfect, Lev," Lucy cooed, pressing a soft kiss to Aiden's head.
"Well, look at that. Pretty good with her already, Natsu," Igneel chuckled, settling into the other chair across from them.
"I'm just hoping I don't make her cry."
They shared a laugh at that and the day carried on.
Igneel also got a turn with the twins after them and it warmed Natsu's heart. He eventually brought out the cake from the kitchen too and they all gathered around to happily sing to Lucy.
A pretty, soft flush dusted her cheeks and Natsu couldn't help but press a kiss to it, before dragging a finger of icing across it of course.
Now, they were enjoying the end of the rest of the night, all sitting around the fire pit that Gray turned on as the stars were bright now above them, cool summer breeze in the air, carrying the comforting scent of the burning, crackling cedar with it.
Natsu looked around him for a while, taking in the happy laughter around him, it really sets in at how long it's been since the last time the house has been full and warm with all his friends and family like this, all the people he loves and he can't help but get a little choked up.
Lucy must've sensed something, as she always does, and she reached over to set her palm over his thigh.
"Everything okay?" she asked softly.
Natsu breathed in deeply, wrapping an arm around her, pulling her closer on the small wooden bench they were on.
"Yeah, perfect. I just love you."
Lucy gives him that warm, content, happy smile that he loves that reaches her eyes.
"Love you always."
Natsu let the words wrap around his heart, letting them guide him to close the distance and press his lips against hers in a tender kiss.
Lucy breathed a soft sound, melting into it as she reached up to curl her hand behind his head and kissed him deeper.
It really was a perfect moment.
Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoyed all the sweetness!
Natsu is so cute and perfect T_T They really write themselves at this point loll
Their group got some new cute additions! You know Natsu had to go all out and do something special for his girl on her birthday
Was there also a sprinkling of foreshadowing for them? Maybe?
Always appreciate all the support!