As always, thanks for all the love, and happy reading!
Levy appeared at Lucy's door feeling anxious. It was the sixth anniversary of Natsu's death, and she was worried about her friend. Lucy always locked herself up on the anniversary, but Levy still tried to visit her, to try and ease her friend's pain.
She raised a hand and knocked, not expecting a response. When Lucy called from inside, Levy opened the door and entered. "Lucy?"
"Hi Levy!" Lucy came out of her bedroom. "What are you doing here?"
"Just… wanted to see how you're doing." You know why I'm here.
"That's nice of you," Lucy said. She came forward and hugged Levy. "Honestly, it's still kind of strange that I'm never alone anymore. There's always someone to visit with if I need them."
It's the anniversary, Lucy. I know you're not okay. "So, any plans today?"
Lucy shrugged as she headed towards her couch. "I decided to take a break this afternoon from the shrine just to have some time off. I've been there every day for a few weeks now, so I hope they won't mind."
Levy snorted. "You're literally the only goddess who bothers to go so often." What are you planning?
"I suppose, but I feel bad not being there."
"Guess you should have had followers a bit sooner, huh?" Levy tried to hold onto her curiosity, but as Gajeel had pointed out, waiting had always been a problem for her. "Guess only having one for so long made it difficult for you to not want to be intimately involved, huh?"
"I guess," Lucy said, refusing to meet her eye.
They were both silent for a little while until Levy was suddenly unable to take it anymore. "Just tell me what you're planning!"
Lucy frowned at her. "What are you talking about?"
"I know how you work, Lucy. You didn't answer me straight out because you don't like lying. I know you're planning something. Just tell me what it is."
Lucy met her gaze, completely serious. "I can't. And after tonight you won't remember anyway."
"What?" Levy flinched as Lucy turned away. "Was that a threat?"
"Of course not," Lucy answered sincerely as her hand subconsciously clasped the book at her side. "It's just a… family secret, and I'm not allowed to tell you about it. You've always been close, Lev, but you're not blood."
Levy glanced at the book and frowned. "You wouldn't have that book if it wasn't for me, you know that right?"
"I know." Lucy gave her a smile. "I never thanked you for that did I?"
"You did, actually-"
"But not enough." Lucy went to her and pulled Levy into a hug. "Thank you, Levy. Without you, I wouldn't know anything about my family. I owe you more than you know." She began to lead Levy towards the door. "If you don't mind, I have a bit of work to do, and then I'd like to get a nap before tonight."
"Lucy-"
"Thank you for visiting, though," Lucy said as she gently pushed Levy out the door. "I'll see you tomorrow, okay?" The door closed with a quiet snap.
Levy glared at the door for a long time as she considered reentering, but if Lucy wanted to be alone on the anniversary, that was fine. Whatever she was planning, Levy would make sure to investigate the next day. If she was doing something worrisome, then Levy would intervene once she had more information.
With a plan in mind, Levy left.