Morning After the Storm
Morning came in Magnolia and for once it was uneventful. Just how Soler liked it. A swift turn to his side and he instantly regretted it as small sharp pain sprung back to life forcing him awake. He opened his eyes with a small groan to see he had rolled onto his still injured arm. He gently rubbed the wrapped up limb to soothe away the pain.
Alice really did a number on you huh pal? He thought to himself. But turning his attention away from his arm he gazed at the few rays of sunlight that had snuck into his cozy room. Judging them from a glance he guessed it must have still been morning or close to the afternoon. Normally he'd be upset with himself for sleeping in so late but since everyone's return a few days ago he felt a weight had been lifted off of him with Lisanna's return. It was like the universe had decided to give him a breather and for once he was actually going to use it. He even thought of taking his friends to the resort as a show of his good mood. But they wanted something else instead.
"Come on Soler please!" Lisanna begged with her best pouty face. It hadn't even been less than a week since her return and she was already back to how she used to act. It was both strange yet welcoming. Soler rolled his eyes and gave a smirk,
"You sure that this is what you want to do for your return? Just a dinner?" he questioned. Her face switched from the pout to an offended.
"Just dinner? It's not just dinner, it's one of your dinners!" she exclaimed. Soler shook his head as he took a sip from his mug. The two were chatting in the guildhall, the usual meeting spot for the members.
"I don't see what's so special about one of my dinners? Mira is much more of a better cook than I am." he responded. Lisanna adamantly shook her head.
"Sis's cooking is great but your way of cooking tastes just as good if not better at times." she replied.
"I highly doubt that." he mumbled before reaching for his drink again. But Lisanna was quick to snatch it away getting a little whine out of him. He looked to see her face was dead serious.
"You really think my cooking is that good? But you haven't had my food in two years I could have gotten worse." he retorted. Her expression didn't change but a sigh did leave her.
"What do you have Lisanna sighing about?" Mira's teasing voice popped into the conversation as they watched her walk over to them with an empty tray in her hands. Before Soler could speak Lisanna beat him to the punch.
"Your boyfriend won't make me one of his dinners for a return request." she quickly said. Mira looked a bit surprised and confused.
"Why's that?" she asked. Soler opened his mouth again but yet again,
"He says that his food isn't something he thinks is worthy of a return gift." she answered for him. Now Mira looked to Soler with a knowing expression.
"Really?" she questioned. Soler felt the heat of embarrassment flare up his neck.
"W-well it's really not all that. Your cooking is far better than mine." he replied. Mira gave him a flippant wave.
"Oh stop being so modest. Your cooking is great how it is. In fact, I'd like to join in on a Soler made dinner." she said. Lisanna's face lit up at her sister's agreement.
"Yes! Now that's 2 to 1 you have to make dinner now." she told him.
"Someone say dinner?" the trio turned to see Natsu, Happy, and Lucy walk up. Soler sighed at the growing number of people.
"Yes Lisanna wants a home-cooked meal by yours truly." he answered. Natsu and Happy lit up at hearing that.
"Soler's cooking? Heck yeah, we're having that dinner! It's going to be so good!" Natsu cheered.
"Think of the good fish he'll serve." Happy drooled imagining the tasty seafood. Even Lucy was on board with this idea.
"Soler you do make really good food plus a home cooked meal with friends sounds like fun." she added in. Soler was quickly losing this battle and he knew Lisanna knew it for her face was getting smugger with each new person that showed up.
"Seems to be quite the commotion going on over here." He almost winced at the new voice. Erza followed by the girls and Carla walked up to the group.
"Soler are we having everyone over?" Alice asked.
"Soler's going to make a big welcome back dinner for Lisanna." Mira explained as she completely ignored Soler's slight glare. Alice and Wendy perked up at that.
"Oh, his cooking is so good! I can't wait!" Alice rejoice. Wendy on the other hand had never had his cooking.
"If this many people are excited about Solers cooking then it must be good." she said absentmindedly. Alice nodded to her excitedly.
"It's the best! You'll love it right Erza?" she asked the redhead. She nodded with a smile in response.
"He's a great chef but the best are his cakes which I'm sure will be on the menu." she said giving him a look. Soler gave his own look back.
"Only if someone eats her other food first." he responded to her. She sweated a bit at his comment but with a quick cough she brushed it off.
"Anyway a dinner sounds lovely."
"A dinner sounds mainly!" Now the sizable group of regulars looked to see Elfman, Gray, Juvia, Gajeel, and Pantherlily joining them. Soler knew he lost the moment Mira got involved but with more people coming in it just felt like someone was just twisting the wound deeper.
"Who's making the food?" Gray asked.
"Soler is." Lisanna perked up with a bit too much joy. Gray's eyes brightened at hearing that.
"Well, then I'm definitely there. Can't miss Soler's cooking." he commented.
"If my beloved is going then Juvia must go as well. Even though I'm sure Soler's food compares nothing to my Gray's." she said getting a long sigh out of Gray. Pantherlily gave a nod and smile.
"I'm sure the food will be great." he said while Gajeel only looked away indifferently. With a now sizable group before Soler and multiple hungry and awaiting people, he was trapped. But even though he might have put up a fight to not cook deep down he didn't mind at all. It would be just another chance for him to be around his friends. But with how smug Lisanna was looking at him he wasn't going to give her any more of the satisfaction she already had. So with a sigh did Soler agree to cook them the best meal they'll ever have.
Soler kept his gaze out the window as the memory from a few days ago passed. Tonight was the night was said dinner and he still needed a few more ingredients to prepare everything. A yawn escaped him as he laid on his back. He looked to the right to the empty space where he wished Erza or Mira was. But his concerns for waking up alone would have to wait as he was already late to start the day. With a huff, he got up to shower and dress for the day.
Soler emerged from his room refreshed and ready to go,
"Alright got my list. So a quick apple for the road and I'll be out." As he entered the living room he noticed Alice was sitting on the couch reading quietly.
"Alice? Whatcha doing here kiddo? I thought you'd be with Wendy?" he asked. Alice was taken out of her book from his question but perked up seeing him,
"Hey, she went out on a quick job with Gray and Juvia so I decided to stay behind." she quickly explained. He nodded, accepting her reasoning enough. Though it was strange to see the two apart.
"Well If you don't have any plans for the day want to come with me? I got some shopping to do for dinner tonight." he responded. Alice was quick to put away her book and got ready to go which was double surprising.
"Yeah let's go!" she said pepped up. Soler gave her a confused glance but let it go with an eased smile.
"Yes ma'am." he teased. He quickly got his apple and the two were out the door. The two made their way down to the city talking all the way. Well, more Alice was talking as she spoke of the things she and Wendy had been up to lately and also recalling her big fight in Edolas. Soler gave his input every now and then but his smile never left his face as he mostly listened. He loved just hearing how excited she got. They kept up conversation as he got his items from the different stores around town, greeting the townspeople and workers as he went and having to deny the discounts they tried to give him.
But as they went on, and Soler kept teleporting his purchases home, Alice slowly got quieter eventually not saying much at all by the time they braked for lunch. The pair were seated outside as they waited for the server to come back with their orders. Now that they were seated Soler could actually take full notice of Alice's strange behavior. She was slightly sipping on her drink not really taking it in as a conflicted expression rested on her face. He didn't need to be her blood father to recognize that something is bothering her. Real question is what?
"So what's on your mind?" he casually asked. His voice broke through Alice's thoughts and it instantly made her flustered.
"Oh it's nothing really." she quickly replied then took an actual sip of her drink. He obviously wasn't buying it but the fact she was trying to hide it only piqued his curiosity more.
"Ok if you say so." If she was hiding it then he'd have to take a different approach, "So how have your jobs been lately?" he asked instead. She eased at this question as even a small grin made it to her face.
"They've been pretty tame compared to what we dealt with in Edolas. My last job was just to take down some bandits and they stood no chance." she said proudly. Soler nodded in approval.
"Nice to hear. I'm guessing the training has been paying off then."
"Yeah, it has! Between what you've taught me and the others I can definitely feel the difference in my strength. Plus I've also been working on my own moves too." she said with glee.
"Well then I'll have to be prepared the next time we spar." he replied, making her smile bigger. They went back into their silence with relative ease. He could tell she was more eased than before but whatever was on her mind was still there.
"If it's not about jobs or lack of strength then maybe." Soler took a moment to take another swig of his drink.
"So how are things with Wendy?" he slid the question out so quickly and casually that it took Alice a few seconds to realize what he asked. And it was when she did realize that her flustered expression came back tenfold.
"T-Things have been great with Wendy. No problems there whatsoever." she practically slurred out. Soler didn't react to her mess up but it was evidence enough.
"Really? Things are fine between you two?" he inquired.
"Y-Yeah everything is...fine." she quavered. Now the silence that followed was uncomfortable for both ends. Soler was slightly concerned something has happened between them while Alice was stuck not knowing what to do. But the bubble that surrounded then popped when the waiter came back with their food.
"Your orders." he said with a smile as he handed them their food. Both of them thanked him before he left, but neither one touched the fresh food. Soler's concerned gaze was set on Alice who hadn't dared to look him in the eyes. She knew he was studying at her but still couldn't look at him. She was honestly terrified too. What was on her mind she knew wasn't normal for girls her age but the thoughts she's been having just haven't gone away as she had hoped. They've only gotten worse and now even Soler has begun to notice. Keeping it a secret was failing miserably. She could feel her form beginning to quiver but the fear was choking her too much to speak.
"Dammit just say something! Anything! Please just say something. Please." but no matter what she pleaded her mouth stayed closed. Alice could feel the tears on their way from her frustration but a warm hand paused all her thoughts. She slowly looked up to see Soler's gentle smile.
"Hey, it's ok Alice. I'll always love you no matter what." it felt like the weight that's been oppressing her was being lifted with that simple phrase. And she hadn't even told him what it was. That's when the tears she was holding back fell ever so lightly. Soler's eyes widen in panic,
"You're crying? Are you really ok? I didn't say something did I?" he rapidly asked. Soler's antics were more than enough to break the serious air between them. She couldn't help herself but giggle at him which only made him more bewildered. She wiped away her few tears before she took an actual sip from her drink as a smile found its way to her face,
"You are definitely something else ya know that?" she joked. Soler might've not fully understood but seeing her smile again was enough for him to ease himself,
"Yeah, you're definitely right there. So you think you could tell me what's actually been eating at you?" he requested her. A small bit of that tension came back to her but she took a breath to steady herself,
"W-Well the thing is...is that I...I kinda like Wendy." she said outright. A small blush spread on her face at her confession. Soler just looked at her somewhat confused,
"Is that all?" he asked gently. Alice's shocked looked spoke volumes,
"Is that all?" she retorted. He just nodded still unclear,
"Yeah. I mean I think a lot of people like Wendy. She is really kind and sweet. It's hard not to like her. Heck I know I do. It's always just fun to just chat with her at times." he replied back. It was then Alice realized what he meant and she both sighed internally and groaned externally,
"How can he be so dense on this? It's like I'm talking to Natsu." putting the thought aside she reaffirmed herself giving him a serious look,
"No I mean I like like Wendy. Ya know like in that way." she tried to repeat. Soler just stared blankly for another moment before his eyes widen in realization,
"Oh...OH… you mean as in like a romantic sense?" Alice's blush only grew as she nodded in response,
"Y-yeah that's what I mean." Soler quickly went into thought as he tried to remember any signs of her Alice's crush developing. But nothing came to mind meaning she did a great job of hiding it,
"Hmm well I definitely didn't see this one coming. How long have you had a crush on her?" he asked. For a second time, Alice was taken back by Soler,
"Wait, you're just okay with this? You see no problems in any of this?" she demanded. He shook his head,
"No, not at all. Why would I see something wrong with it? I mean it's just a crush right?" he countered. His nonchalant manner to this ticked her off a bit,
"What's wrong is that I have a crush on another girl. A girl! And you see nothing wrong with that?" she retorted. For a second time, he shook his head,
"Nope." The girl slumped back in her seat placing a hand on her head as she tried to wrap her mind over how he's not phased by any of this,
"I-I just. You don't think that it's wrong for me, a girl, to like another girl and not a guy?" she asked. Soler responded with a slight chuckle,
"If I thought a girl liking another girl was wrong then I'd be one hell of a hypocrite. I mean have you seen the relationship I'm in? It's not exactly something that most people do. Well I mean it's not uncommon but it's extremely rare and definitely a bit weird to the outside eye." Alice opened her mouth to retort but as she quickly closed it knowing he was right. His relationship with both Erza and Mira was not normal. A smirk formed on his face as he watched her try to process this,
"Alice listen to me." she looked back to his eyes showing her confusion. He placed a hand on her head and gave her a gentle pat, "Alice whether you decided to like girls, boys or both it doesn't matter to me one bit. I love and accept you for who you are. That's all that ever mattered to me, and lucky for you that you're a part of one of the most accepting guilds in Fiore. In Fairy Tail we let our hearts guide us, especially when it comes to things like this. As long as you like them, and they're a good person, then you best believe I'll back you all the way." and just like that she wanted to cry for a second time. And for the second time, he said he loved her. Her memories of her parents have always been a massive haze to her besides a peculiar voice. But even though the two weren't connected by blood in any way this man before her has been nothing but open, kind, and accepting to her. Letting her not only into his home but in his heart as well. But not just his heart but all of the members of Fairy Tail. She's never felt so much love before and it was honestly addicting. In a good way.
When Soler moved his hand back Alice got up from her seat and went over to hug him tightly, taking him off guard. And then only when she knew he could hear her did she say it,
"I love you too dad." with just a single phrase was Soler practically putty in this little girl's hands. He wanted to just go out and get her whatever she wanted he was so high on cloud nine. But he kept himself contained and simply hugged her back,
"Love you too kiddo." he replied. To those who were seated or passing by, they simply saw a father and his daughter having a moment. And now even to them, it felt exactly like that. They let another moment pass of their hug before they broke apart. Soler pulled her back and the two just smiled brightly at each other before Alice went back to her seat. The moment she was seated did she let out a massive sigh,
"Man you don't know how long that was weighing down on me." she groaned. Soler chuckled,
"I'm sure it was. So, what are you going to do about these feelings towards Wendy?" he asked. Alice simply shrugged,
"No idea. I thought it was just going to be a passing feeling in the beginning. But the longer we spent time together the more that the feelings grew until I just accepted it." he gave a sly smile,
"It feels good huh? Finally accepting your feelings towards someone." Alice nodded with joy,
"It does. But it's also confusing at the same time. It's like I know I like her but now that I know I'm always wondering if she'll like me back and if I should tell her or not." she prattled on. Soler nodded,
"I definitely understand. I was around your age when I first started to develop feelings towards Erza. The ones towards Mira came a bit later though. Don't tell them I told you that. It'd be a bad day for me if either one found out." he quickly told her. Alice giggled as she nodded,
"Yeah, yeah I won't. But to go back to me. What do you think I should do about Wendy?" Soler pondered her situation for a moment,
"Well, I'd say just let it sit for a while. At least till you both are a bit older and more in tune with yourselves and stuff. Cause as bad as it might sound feelings can change over time. Not that I'm doubting yours or anything but time can be a major game changer." he answered. Alice huffed in disappointment,
"Your right, it does sound bad. But I think your idea is the best one. Things can change over time and I'm still trying to figure myself out so time is what's best for both of us." she replied. Soler smirked,
"See sounding wiser already. So relax and enjoy the feelings for now. I'm sure things will change once you two get older." he replied. Having a plan, even a long waiting one, brought ease to Alice in a way she didn't expect. Between letting out her secret, being accepted, and getting advice on the matter it did a number on her emotions. And her hunger as her stomach growled. Soler was ready to laugh but his stomach growled as well halting him. Both looked to each other blankly before bursting out into a small fit of laughter,
"All this emotional talk and we haven't even touched our food yet. How about we solve that?" he teasingly asked. She smiled at that,
"I couldn't agree more." Not wasting a beat she picked up her sandwich and took a healthy bite out of it a satisfied smile on her face. Soler just smirked at that and preparing to eat his when a familiar voice called out his name,
"Is that Soler?" He looked out to see a woman dressed in simple form-fitting blue jeans, brown boots, a white t-shirt, and a black short jacket. Her brown eyes lit up behind her glasses and she waved and made her way over her short brown hair boobing ever slightly as she went. Soler smiled as she waved to her,
"Well if it isn't Alexis. I haven't seen you in awhile." he replied. Alexis adjusted her satchel as she came to a stop at the table giving Soler a smile,
"And it's been awhile since you've given me an article. The last time I saw you was after you did your shoot with Erza and Mira." she replied as she pulled up a chair and sat down, "Gotta say when they told me you three were going to be doing a shoot together. I knew you guys were going to be the headliners for that one." Soler sighed and shook his head,
"Mira dragged us both to do that shoot. They wanted all of the guilds S-Class mages but we were the only ones available." Alexis let out a small laugh,
"Yeah I'm sure she dragged you there." she teased. Alice who had been silent the who time just stared between the two of them and how familiar they were with each other,
"Uh Soler who is this?" she asked. Hearing her voice Alexis finally noticed Alice sitting there. And then she noticed that there was food on the table. And that it was only the two of them with food. It only took her another second to put it all together and with a blush did she scramble up to her feet,
"I'm so, so sorry! I just sat down while you two were eating, not even bothering to ask if I could sit down. Oh, I'm so embarrassed." Soler only smiled and gave her a calming down gesture,
"Relax your fine. We haven't even really started to eat yet so you wouldn't be interrupting. Right Alice?" he asked. Alice didn't fully know their relationship but Alexis didn't seem like a bad person so with a smile did she shake her head,
"Yeah you're fine." she answered. Alexis eased and sat back down,
"Thank you so much. So your name is Alice huh? I guess it's true the cute girls all have 'A's in their name." she teased, "So do you have a last name miss Alice? Or are you like him and only recently had someone give them a last name." she asked as she gave Soler a pointed look. Soler chuckled nervously,
"Well, ya see-"
"Stratus." Both adults looked to Alice. She had a slight tinge of pink on her cheeks as she gave a Soler a hopeful look, "M-My last name is Stratus." she replied. Alexis' eyes widened for a moment before she looked over to Soler. He was still looking at Alice but with a grin did he nod,
"Yeah her last name is Stratus." he confirmed. Alice's eyes lit up with excitement and she smiled to herself. While she was Alexis gave Soler a gentle look,
"So you finally settled down then. A lot has changed since we've last talked. Of course, you are a Fairy Tail wizard something is always changing." she replied. Soler sighed,
"Oh don't I know it. A lot has changed. And it's kinda on the settled down part." Alexis eyed him with a hint of hunger behind her eyes,
"Complicated or not you two have the same last name. Which must mean there's a Mrs. Stratus back home. So then tell me who is it?" Soler knew that look from her all too well. It was that journalist look she got whenever she knew there was a story to be told. It reminded him of Lucy when she went on about the book she's writing. Well, it was more Lucy reminded him of Alexis since he's known her longer. But he knew how to play this game,
"There might be. But the only way you'll know is if this stays off the record. Like this whole conversation." Alexis was already in her bag prepared to write things down but the moment he said off the record she let out a small cry in protest,
"Off the record? Really? Come on I haven't gotten any content from you in a long time. I thought I was your go-to journalist?" she replied,
"Oh, you definitely are. But this is something I want to stay off the record. Besides I can tell you the story of my adventure in Edolas as a reward." he added on. Hearing the new word piqued her curiosity,
"What's Edolas?" she inquired but he shook his head,
"Nope you don't get to find that out until you agree to keep the first part just to yourself." he responded. Alexis huffed and pouted but after a moment she nodded reluctantly,
"Fine, fine you win. Now just tell me who is already. I know it's either Erza or Mira." she said with confidence. Soler chuckled a bit embarrassed,
"Well you're kinda right and wrong." he replied. She looked at him confused,
"How so?"
"Well your right on the people but you were wrong to use the word 'or' back there." they then sat in embarrassed and awkward silence as Alexis was putting everything together. Then her eyes widen ever so slightly and her mouth hung gently open in shock but just as quickly her face changed to one of disbelief as a little laugh left her,
"Yeah right. Like that's actually what happened. You probably are just trying to keep me from knowing exactly who it is right?" Soler's slight blush and quiet demeanor quickly began to switch her back to shock. She looked to Alice's eyes pleading,
"He-He's joking right?" Alice shook her head,
"Nope. Some of the members call him the resident playboy because of it." she teased. Soler groaned hearing that,
"And I tell them to not call me that! The last playboy the guild had was Loki and that'll be the last one we ever have." he complained. While Alice giggled from his mini-rant Alexis sat there dumbfounded,
"You're really dating them both." she breathed getting another nod from Soler,
"Yep."
"Both Miragane Strauss and Erza Scarlet are your wives." Soler shook his head,
"No not wives just girlfriends. It's definitely way too early to even consider marriage with either one of them." Alice slid him a sly look,
"Oh really now? I wonder what they would say if it was brought up." she teased and gave her back a slight glare,
"Don't you even dare bring that topic up. Erza's already infatuated with weddings and it'll just push Mira's agenda forward. She already coo's to me enough on how the four of us are like a little family." he replied. Alice sighed with an eased smile,
"Yes, a family with one dad, two moms, and a daughter. Sounds like your average family to me." Soler chuckled from the one,
"See that sarcasm you got is what'll push people to call you mine even more." She giggled in her own right knowing exactly what he meant. While the two were having a little moment the silence from Alexis drew the pair back to her. The sight they saw was a woman whose mind looked to be cooked at the little information she learned. Alice was more than concerned when her head slumped over on the table as a haggard sigh left the woman,
"Wow is this why you don't want people to know?" she asked. Soler nodded as he waved down the waiter to refill his water with ice,
"Most definitely." taking a sip of the cool beverage he let the liquid ease his mind. Then once he was satisfied he gently placed the cold bottom of the glass on the back of Alexis's neck which instantly shot her up and back to reality,
"Ah good to see your back. Was worried we lost you back there." he joked before taking another sip. She rubbed the cold spot to quickly warm it,
"Well, I'm sorry for overheating. It's not like you didn't just drop the bomb that you were dating both Erza and Mira!" she exclaimed,
"Is it really that big?" Alice genuinely asked. Alexis quickly nodded,
"Heck yeah, it is! Even though Mira doesn't go on jobs anymore she's still one of Fairy Tail's S-Class wizards along with Erza and he's dating both of them." she explained. With an explanation, Alice began to understand the true gravity of Soler's relationship. Alexis turned back to Soler who had been quietly and calmly finishing his drink,
"You. Explain. Now." she demanded. He put down his glass and merely shrugged,
"It's not much to explain really. Went on a date with Mira, kinda kissed, went to save Erza, she said she loved me, we fought, stopped a giant stone spider, we kissed afterward, then things got really tense after that, avoided home for a few days, came back they were there, we talked about it and came to the agreement of a joint relationship. Well more like they did and I just kinda accepted it." he answered. Alexis just glowered at him,
"You can't just explain all that nonchalant like that! This is big and you know it."
"Oh don't I. I'm living it everyday." he replied. With another sigh, she slouched back in her seat as she nursed her brow,
"Honestly Soler as long as I've known you this is by far one of the last things I'd expect outta you. But you seem to be satisfied with the situation so hey it all you. Though I know a lot of guys and girls that'd die to be in your position." she teased. He shook his head,
"They say that but you'll never know how tense that first night was.' he shuddered at the memory, "I got no sleep that night." Alexis only gave him a sly smile,
"You sly dog. Well, I won't pry more but that is juicy news. And speaking of juicy news you gotta start talking about this Edolas stuff. Since I can't write on the secret relationship between Fairy Tails strongest I need something to write about so I won't leave empty-handed." she got her notebook back out as she spoke to show her readiness. Soler did agree to tell her but a quick look at the sky and he knew from how far the sun was in the back he knew he didn't have all the time to explain especially if wanted to have all the food done by the time people arrived. It was then an idea popped up,
"Hey how would you like to come to my place for dinner tonight?" he quickly asked her. Alexis looked at him taken back,
"Soler! I can understand you liking to date multiple partners but to try and add me to your growing harem. I'm appalled." she huffed. He groaned and shook his head,
"Jezz get your head out the gutter Al. I'm having dinner tonight at the request of someone and it's sorta like a mini welcome back party as well. A lot of the members that went over to Edolas will be there so I'm sure having multiple different perspectives of what happened will benefit you more." he replied. Alexis took a moment to think about the proposal,
"Well I was going to be in town for a least another few days, and getting multiple eye-witness accounts is beneficial. Also, a good dinner wouldn't hurt as well. Alright, I'm in. What time is the dinner?" He gave her the time and place and with that, they separated leaving her to go about her day and while Soler and Alice went back home,
"I think she's nice." Alice said out of the blue. Soler nodded,
"Yep she's a bit odd at times but Alexis is very trustworthy. I'm sure when you make S-Class I can get her to be your interviewer." he replied. Alice hmm'd quietly at the thought,
"I think that'll be nice." they continued on in an eased silence, the house getting closer. Once they made it Soler paused at the door and looked to Alice,
"I didn't say this before. But what we talked about earlier I think you should also talk to Erza and Mira about it. And maybe Lucy. I'm no expert on the subject but having other women to go off of won't do you any harm ya know?" She quickly nodded knowing he was right but those nerves of telling others were rearing their ugly head back up. He sensed this and placed a calming hand on her shoulder,
"Hey remember what I said. You're a part of Fairy Tail. If they accept my relationship they'll accept you being you kiddo." his words did the trick again to help ease her nerves as she was able to smile once more,
"Yeah your right." he smirked and nodded,
"Good. Now I might need your help to unpack the food. I got a lot of cooking to do." he said as he opened the door. When the two walked in they were met with sounds of eased conversation and bags being moved about. Once fully inside the two moved over to the kitchen to see Mira and Erza unpacking the food he bought earlier both just conversing as they went. Seeing them just smiling and talking as they worked about wearing their little slippers gave Soler strong housewives vibes and mixed in with the earlier conversation it definitely made him wonder. Their conversation stopped when they noticed both Soler and Alice,
"Welcome home you two." Mira said as she quickly went over and gave Soler a peck on the cheek and a hug to Alice,
"Yeah, it's good to be back. What are you two doing here so early?" he asked as he took notice of the food laying out. Erza went over and kissed his other cheek before placing down the vegetable she was holding,
"Well we figured you'd need help with a bit of the cooking since we did kind of put it all on you." she answered. Soler placed a hand on his heart with dramatic flair,
"I-I'm touched." he joked. Erza smirked and gave him a playful nudge before going back to take out food. He smiled and looked back to Mira,
"I appreciate it but I thought Lisanna wanted an authentic Soler cooked meal?" he asked. Mira nodded as she cleaned up the bags,
"Oh, you're still doing the cooking. But that doesn't mean we can't help with prep work silly." she replied. Soler gave an appreciative smile,
"You two are the best. Well three since Alice will be joining us. Right?" he asked as he took off his coat. Alice looked confused since she knew little cooking but the knowing look he gave her told his true intent. She internally sighed,
"He knows me too well." She took a bit of courage from her heart and nodded,
"Y-Yeah I will. I umm actually wanted to talk to you two about something and maybe get some advice." she admitted. Both Erza and Mira gave her slightly concerned looks,
"What's the problem?" Mira asked, leading her to the table to sit.
As Soler did his cooking Erza and Mira switched between helping him and conversing with Alice as the girl opened up to the two women about her problem. Much like Soler said the two were more than open about how proud they were that she trusted them enough to talk about it and were quick to talk things out and give the best advice they could. They did much better in asking the better questions that got Alice talking more about her discovery of self and her feelings towards Wendy. Soler just cooked with a content smile as he listened to them all and engaged when he felt it was right to jump in or was asked a question or input on a topic. By the time the food was done night had crept upon them all and he could tell from Alice's smile it was a good call for her to open up to Erza and Mira,
"Thanks for the advice, and ya know accepting me." she thanked them. A set of tight hugs from the two mages followed behind that,
"Sweetie you don't have to thank us for anything. We're just glad we could be of some help to you." Mira replied,
"I couldn't agree more. I know it must've not been easy carrying such a weight all this time. I'm sorry we didn't recognize it sooner." Erza chimed in. Alice nervously shook her head,
"No, it's none of your fault. I just needed to gain the courage which wasn't easy and definitely needed a bit of coxing. But honestly, I'm glad I did. It makes me feel good to know I don't have to hide it anymore." she responded as that smile returned. Her joy easily spread to the others as smiles spread on their faces,
"That's great to hear. You should always be proud of who you are. Especially for a Fairy Tail wizard." Erza declared with gusto. Soler was content with watching the scene before him but a glance out the window made him realize how late it's gotten,
'People should be arriving soon.' he thought and no sooner had the thought left him a loud knocking at the door drew all their attention,
"It's already time for the dinner? I completely forgot about it." Mira gasped. Soler chuckled as she gently patted her head,
"You precious girl you. You ladies go and freshen up I'll get people in and things started." they all agreed a quick fresh up would be nice and quickly went off to do just that. As they left and he went to let people in something nagged at the back of his mind. Like it was something he was forgetting,
'I got the food done, got the drinks. So what is it that's nagging me?' He pondered as he went for the door. Opening it he was met with a smiling Natsu, a floating Happy, an even brighter smiling Lisanna, and waving Lucy with the rest of the group behind them,
"I hope you made enough food, cause Natsu here has been starving himself all day in preparation tonight." Lisanna joked. Natsu's growling stomach matched up to what she said,
"Aww, I'm sure there's way more than enough. Now let's get in there and dig in!" he shouted with glee. It was looking at Natsu's practically drooling mouth did Soler's smile fad as the horror of realization take his face,
"Shit that's what I forgot to do!" with a huff did he slam the door and in a mad dash, he went back into the kitchen. Moving the dining table to the side he did a precise set of knocks on the floorboards. And then as if by magic a secret door slid to reveal a small set of steps. Quickly he went descended the steps to the darkness below. Once he reached the bottom he flicked on the light to the side of the wall. And then he sighed in relief,
"Oh good the secret panty is fully stocked." aligning the walls of the small and cool room were rows of foods from each of the food groups. There was even another metal door in the back that was being powered by ice lacrima to keep some meat stored there nice and fresh. He did another survey of the stock and when satisfied he turned off the light and quickly ascended the steps again. Emerging from the darkness he felt right under the side of the opening to press a hidden button and the doorway quickly closed itself blending in with the rest of the floor. To finish it off he put the table back and nodded,
"Good I won't have to go out and get more food in cause Natsu raids my decoy pantry." he said to himself,
"Decoy pantry?" he quickly whipped around to see Alice looking confused. A nervous look found its way to his face,
"How long were you standing there?" he quickly asked,
"I got here at the part where you said something about a decoy pantry." she explained. Soler sighed in relief,
"Oh, thank goodness you didn't see it then." Now she just looked even more perplexed,
"I didn't see what?" she questioned. Chuckling to himself he patted her head,
"Ah don't worry about it now. I'll tell you later. Now think you can let those guys in for me. Gotta get things prepped." he didn't wait for a reply and walked off to the food leaving the girl highly confused.
The interesting beginning beside once the other members were in the welcome back dinner had officially begun. Music played, drinks flowed, and of course, plenty of food was eaten. The amount of food that was actually made was quite astonishing. Soler had made more than enough for fourths and had something that everything could eat. He even went out of his way to get some bolts for Gajeel to snack on. But things really got lively when Alexis arrived at the scene. The moment she saw Lissana she couldn't help herself but scoop the girl up into a tearful hug for if there was one thing he forgot to tell her was that Lisanna was back.
Thankfully he didn't have to do much if any explaining of anything for once she was seated in with the guild members they were more than ready to recount their adventures in Edolas. He was glad, for now, he could sit back and enjoy his food and drink in peace. Well, as in peace as it could be for a Fairy Tail gathering that is. But as he enjoyed his time with everyone he couldn't help but notice Alice had situated herself right next to Wendy and Carla and the girls were adamantly discussing something he couldn't hear. It didn't matter for the smiles and laughter were more than enough to bring one to his own face. As if feeling his eyes Alice did a glance over to meet Soler's smile. It's gentle nature quickly switched to one of teasing as he gave her a knowing look. A blush quickly formed on her face as she turned away but the moment she did was met with Wendy's concerned words and eyes which only added to her embarrassment. That got a kick out of him as he let a laugh escape him,
"Someones enjoying the night." with a quick nudge was he brought out his laughter as Lisanna sat down next to him. A smirk was leftover on his face as he nodded,
"Yeah guess you could say I am. You enjoying yourself?" he asked. She nodded with glee,
"This is the most fun I've had in awhile! And your cooking is so good. I didn't realize how much I missed it." she giggled. He smirked at that feeling his pride in his skills swell,
"Well, my cooking is one of a kind. Speaking of, I don't think I ever ran into the Edolas version of myself. Did you ever run into him?" he asked. Lisanna had leaned over to rest her head on his shoulder as she thought,
"No, I don't think I ever did. Maybe he was just a normal citizen and blended in with the crowd." she offered. Soler nodded,
"I guess so. Kinda hoped that version of me wound up at Fairy Tail. But just living a normal life would be cool for him too." he replied. Lisanna just gave a small hmm of agreement as she closed her eyes to rest on him, a content smile on her face. He didn't mind it all. They sat there in their little bubble of warmth as he continued to finish off the last of his drink watching the rest of his friends,
"I missed this." his attention turned back to Lisanna who has somehow snuggled herself closer to him,
"Someone's getting tired huh?" he joked. She opened one eye to stick her tongue out at him,
"As if. You're just warm is all." she replied, closing her eyes again. He chuckled as he turned back to watch. The comforting silence fell back into them as Soler just gazed, getting swept in his memories as he did when he slowed down. He could remember it like it was yesterday the feeling of the rain beating down on his face, as he rushed to get to Mira, with his heart beating just as fast. And the moment they both came to stop as he fell and witnessed Elfman practically kill his own little sister. He remembered the funeral and how the rain seemed never-ending that day. He could see the tears that ran down the Strauss sibling's faces, especially Miras and the feeling of pure heartbreak he felt. And with it the shame. A shudder left his form he let go of a breath,
"Man it rained like hell that day. Even after I went inside the rain continued." his gazing turned to Mira as he watched her laugh at a story that was being told by Natsu who was more than happy to act out certain scenes. A sad smile then formed,
"To think the woman I love can smile can laugh so genuinely again. Hell, who am I kidding she's been able to laugh genuinely even after that night. Not because she didn't feel for what happened but because she had to be strong not just for her sake but for Elfman and Lisanna's sake. And probably even a bit for me.' another sigh left him as his thoughts continued, "And where was I the whole time? Too stuck in my own self-pity to even truly look at her. Hell to truly look at anyone. I was so lost in the pain I couldn't see properly to let myself even attempt to heal. Just push it to the side I'd say. Don't think about it and it'll fade. The pain will go away. But with each new threat that came that pain only kept resurfacing. Forcing me to remember to not let history repeat itself. To not fail again. And though it pushed me It also held me down funny enough. It always made me remember my greatest failure..." he stopped his thoughts letting them fester as he just gazed on.
He looked from Mira's smile to Erzas and then to the girls then Natus, Lucy, Gray all of the smiles that graced his home tonight. He didn't notice but his hand had balled itself into a fist as his gaze grew more serious. But just as it was, he felt a smaller hand place itself over his. It broke him from his thoughts to look as see Lisanna's hand was gently trying to cox his to ease up,
"Can you feel my hand?" she quietly asked, drawing him to look at her again. She wasn't looking back but still hand her eyes closed as she stroked his hand,
"I'm right here next to you Soler. So you don't have to worry anymore. You don't have to harbor that pain any longer. You can let go of that night and stay here in the present with the rest of us. We all want you here with us." Soler just stared at the youngest Strauss in amazement. Lisanna felt his balled hand flatten out and she smiled as she looked up to him,
"We all love you too much for you to be stuck in the past. So just stay in the present where you belong." she repeated to him. He was stuck staring at her as he felt a single tear well up and escaped his eye. He then shook his head as he chuckled to himself,
"That's the second time you've made me tear up." he replied as he whipped his eye. Lisanna giggled as she watched,
"Well, then I'll be sure to say some touching words at you and Mira's wedding then. I couldn't live with myself if I don't get you to cry like a baby." Now a genuine laugh graced her ears,
"I think you need to slow down there. I don't want anyone giving her any ideas." he joked back which got a laugh out of Lisanna. She knew her sister enough to know even the slightest of ideas of marriage and Soler would never hear the end of it until it went through. Soler proceeded to wrap his arm around Lisanna bringing her into a warmer embrace,
"Thanks, Lisanna." he gently spoke. As she snuggled up closer a content sigh left her,
"You can thank me by being my pillow for a little bit." she replied. He chuckled as he settled himself in,
"Yeah, I think I can do that."
This one is done. First I have to say thank you for those who are this far with me for reading! The reviews really help me know people enjoy this and warm my heart to see. So thank you again and yes I'm doing alright in these troubling times and hope you all are staying safe too. This chapter took me a while to get together and I had to talk to some of my friends to get their opinions on how to handle certain sections to make sure I got I didn't do anything to disrespect anyone ya know. I still feel like I could have done a bit more but I'm happy with the result. But anyway you guys stay safe, leave some reviews, and I'll see ya next chapter! This has been Solerwolf...later!