You! Yes, you, the one left -if there is anyone left at this point- that you are still here. You suddenly saw a notification that there is an update. You thought it was a joke. But you checked nonetheless. And there is an update indeed. You cursed at the stupid author for disappearing for more than two years while you were waiting for a damn update. And you were right. But the stupid author, wants to apologize for taking so long. She had so many things in her mind but she never forgot the story. And two days ago, she went to her account, read the messages again, shed a tear or two and sat in front of her laptop. The files were there, she read them all over again, she thought that they were not so special, but, damn, did she really write all these? And then, she opened Chapter 5, with barely two paragraphs written. She put her shit together and started writing again. This is one of the few things that I enjoy doing, and it's my baby. So I promise to finish this. I don't know how long it will take, but I will finish this. Enjoy!

P.S. As always, I wish I owned Fairy Tail but Hiro Mashima got here first.

P.S. 2: English is not my mother language so excuse any grammar mistakes made. I uploaded it rather in a rush so I'll correct any mistakes left tomorrow.

"Hey Juvia, fancy meeting you here!" An unusual glint emitted from his dark eyes, reflecting a mix of enthusiasm and glee making a match for his cordial smile. He could almost listen to his inner wolf howling in delight upon sensing his future mate.

Juvia on the other hand looked like a deer caught in the headlights. The only thing she wished for that night was to go unnoticed but the universe conspired to ruin her perfect plan. Putting aside the 'Extreme makeover; Juvia edition' with her lovely friends taking the reins as fashion experts, and her walk of shame into the bar, she had now the pleasure to further embarrass herself in front of her instructor. Whatever has she done to deserve this, really.

A million thoughts passed through her mind on why he was there. Why here of all the places you could step out for a night on the town? 'Maybe cause this is Magnolia's most famous bar's party? Just saying.' Perfect. Just absolutely p-e-r-f-e-c-t. She took a calming breath and looked him in the eyes. He seemed rather excited and for a moment she thought that she was the one providing him such delightful feelings with her preposterous appearance. Deciding to save whatever could be saved from her long disintegrated dignity she tried to humor him. "Well, Juvia is surprised as well to see you here Gray-sama. This appears to be such a small town." She faked a laugh and tried to act nonchalant ignoring her shaking legs and her crazy-drumming heart. 'That's it Juvia, you're a mermaid swimming carefree into the ocean moving your tail up and down, up and down. Yes, you've got this.'

His eyes dilated for a moment before he chuckled. "Excuse me but you are the one who is full of surprises in here Juvia."

Her smile froze on her face. 'Keep moving your tail girl, he's just playing with you. Up and down, up and down.' "What do you mean Gray-sama?"

He picked behind his back looking at the direction of his friends' who of course were looking back at them. Or throwing daggers at him judging by Loke's face. He then turned his attention back to her, smirking. "I mean that I had no idea when inviting you yesterday to Gajeel's live that you would turn out to be the notorious 'Phantom girl' he's been telling us all this time. Like, come on, how ironic is that? I've known you all this time unconsciously! And I also happen to be your tutor. Sick! "

'Up and- Boom. Congratulations Titanic, you just collided with an iceberg." Juvia blinked once, twice giving time to her brain to process the information. "You are f-friends with Gajeel? As in, friends friends? As in, his group of f-friends?" She gulped and tried her best not to have a mental breakdown right then and there. If he told Gajeel about the circumstances under which they came to know each other she is pretty sure that the latter would put her under supervision 25/8 to make sure that she will not attempt to pose as a future public danger. Thus, no more driving lessons with Gray-sama. And what if her family finds out about this? Why does life hate her so much?

Gray threw a cautious look at her, not quiet understanding why being friends with Gajeel would upset her that much. Shouldn't it be the other way around? "Well, we've known each other for years since Macao trusts him to fix the school's cars, so you could say that me and that Metal Head are familiar", he tried to lighten up the atmosphere. Juvia didn't seem to share the same mood though so he sobered up immediately. "Is everything ok? You seem rather stressed."

Stressed is the least you could describe her as right now. Judging from the curious looks her friends gave her from their place at the bar, she knew that this wasn't the right time nor the right place for her to give a proper explanation to Gray-sama as to why he was to not mention anything about how they happen to know each other to Gajeel. She took a few calming breaths to put her thoughts in order as fast as she could in front of a rather perplexed Gray-sama and was about to talk when-

"Hey Ju," came the familiar, loud voice from her, otherwise, most favorite person in the world. 'God damn it. God fucking damn it', she wanted to scream at the top of her lungs of how frustrated she was with the whole situation. She could be tucked in her fluffy bed now, watching her favorite anime and drinking hot chocolate, in peace, but no. She had to engage herself in such a mess from which she didn't know how to get away with. Plus, Gajeel would kill her. And did she mention that Gajeel would kill her?

Instead of answering he simply smiled at her childhood friend. 'Smile through the pain Juvia.'

Gajeel approached them in a few strides and threw a dirty look at Gray's side. "What you two doing alone in the corner here, huh? Is this Ice prick hitting on you? Cause if he does-," he cracked his knuckles along with his neck, ready to give Gray a piece of his mind.

Before Juvia could panic, Gray raised his hands in surrender. "Hold your horses you idiot, I was just surprised to see her here of all places."

Juvia's eyes almost doubled in size. That was not going well. She had to think of something fast before it all blew out.

"Surprised how? You two know each other?'' Gajeel asked furrowing his eyebrows. As far as he knew, Juvia's circle of friends, or to be more specific semi-circle, were just three people and no Gray Fullbuster was included.

"Yes"

"NO"

Gajeel moved his head from one to another, eyeing the two cautiously. "Yes or No?"

Juvia quickly found her composure. Like hell she would let all her efforts go to waste. "Well, NO we didn't know each other before meeting in here, YES we do know each other now that we introduced ourselves." 'Smooth Juvia, smooth.' Before Gray could say something that would probably get them both in trouble, he gave him a 'Please play along' look hoping that he would catch the message. And luckily he did.

If someone thought that he knew what was going on he couldn't be more wrong. 'Cause Gray Fullbuster was 100% lost. But he trusted that Juvia would have a good reason behind this, so he let it pass. For now. He then coughed to clear his throat. "What she said. The girls told us that she is your friend we've been waiting and couldn't help myself but come here and give her a warm welcome," he said while throwing his arm around her bare shoulder. If she wanted him to act, well, acting it is.

Amidst the whole chaos that was unravelling before her eyes, Juvia couldn't miss the little shiver she felt when Gray's hand gently touched her bare skin. She didn't want to succumb to such feelings, but somehow this man made it inevitably impossible. Luckily, Gajeel, as another heaven-sent angel, slapped his arm from around her, being the Big Brother he is. "Fullbuster, if you actually plan on having any sprogs someday, make sure to keep your hands off Ju before I cut what you hold close and dear, got it?"

"Message delivered loud and clear," Gray answered mockingly before giving him a salute which earned him a slap on the back of his head. And damn, Gajeel wasn't joking around.

During their little fight, Juvia used it on her advantega to sneak away and into the bathroom to actually breathe, but before she could execute her perfectly planned idea, a big hand connected with her shoulder and she shivered again, but this time out of dread. After all. she knew exactly to whom it belonged. "And exactly where do you think you're going, huh?" She slowly turned around and sheepishly looked at Gajeel. "Uhm, Juvia is going to the…bathroom?" "Like hell, you are. Enough with the hide-and-seek. You are not to roam around alone anymore, or who knows which bastard's gonna drool over you. You are coming to meet the others," Gajeel said with finality and it was not up to question.

He practically dragged Juvia there -Gray had already taken off to sit beside a pink-haired man- but Gajeel couldn't help but ask the burning question as she was studying her from head to toe. "From playing hard to come you sure made an appearance, huh?" Juvia remembered her state of nudity -yes nudity, because this is not something you would wear on a Sunday morning on a church now is it?- and felt her cheeks flaming out of embarrassment. "Juvia is so ashamed, she was about to come in here wearing her jeans and a T-shirt but Lucy and Levy came over Juvia's house to pick her up and threatened not to let her out unless she dressed up and I'm quoting Lucy here 'as a 24-healthy-hormonal-adult at a bar, unquoting. Not that Juvia would mind not coming, but then Gajeel would be mad at her and that was not an option. So here we are," she finally let out with a pout.

"Gotta say they did a pretty good job" Gajeel pointed out, but immediately turned serious, "but if any of those drunk players in here become too daring, you come tell me and I'll put them back in place. Got it?" That brought a smile up to Juvia's face. Gajeel could play the tough guy as much as he pleased, but Juvia would always see beyond that, to the actual soft boy hidden underneath.

Welcoming voices put her out of her thoughts. When she focused on where Gajeel was taking her, she saw a group of people looking at them, or more likely at her, and remembered the whole purpose of coming here. Getting to meet his gang. She let out the fact that she already knew Gray-sama, but she decided to push it in the back of her mind again. 'One problem at a time, Juvia. One at a time.' She took a big breath and shyly looked up at them muttering a small 'hi'. They all seemed rather loud and welcome, but she thought they did it out of obligation. It was only one night. She could act friendly for Gajeel's sake for this night and then she will never see them again. Right. Sounds like a plan.

"Alright fuckers," Gajeel shouted to get their attention, "this is Juvia", he pushed her on the front from where she was glued on his side, "and needless to say that if any of you assholes touch her, you 're as good as dead," he finished giving a pointing look at Gray.

"I'll make sure of that," Erza spoke from her place next to Loke, towering over him while he raised his hands in front of his chest in a defending motion "Hey, I didn't even do anything!" "Funny of you to assume that you will at any point tonight." She then moved towards Juvia smiling, shaking her hand and urging her to meet the others.

She felt herself being moved by the red-haired woman who started addressing everyone, with Juvia shaking her head and smiling politely exchanging 'nice to meet you's' as in autopilot. Loke as another gentleman actually bent and kissed the back of her palm, lingering a little too much for Juvia's liking but Erza was quick to bring him back to reality.

For a strange reason she felt an unnerving feeling and when she raised her head, she spotted Gray-sama, sitting behind said man, beer in hand, looking at her intently and for a few seconds that seemed like hours, it was like the loud music had stopped, the cheerful laughter of his friends now a blurred uproar gradually fading away and all she could focus was him. He suddenly smirked at her, bringing the bottle of the beer up to his lips, never breaking eye-contact and Juvia's found it difficult to breathe by any passing second.

"Someone seems interested." Juvia all but turned her head in shock to find Lucy right next to her ear, giggling and looking at her slyly. "J-Juvia-" the bluenette stuttered but the blond rolled her eyes and gave her a big grin. "You don't actually want me to believe that after that little encounter earlier and the way Gray hasn't stopped looking at you, that there is not something going on between you too, right?" "He's not-" she stopped midsentence and slightly turned to look at the raven haired man who was indeed looking at her. When she turned her attention back at Lucy she could almost hear the 'I told you so'

coming from her friend and she did not like that one bit.

"Listen, Juvia-", but before she could finish Lucy dragged her towards the bar where the obscenely dressed woman –what was her name again? Oh right, Cana- was bending over the counter, talking to a guy who folded a few notes and sliding them at the woman's direction with a smile that held more meaning to it than a simple 'thank's for the drink'. Cana on the other hand, took the notes and placed them on the inside of her bra, sending a flying kiss at him.

"No, no, no, this is not something you talk about sober. We need a few shots to warm up." Lucy made her way through the crowd to get to the stools, Juvia in tow, and saw Natsu waving at her pointing at two empty stools close to them. She sat them down and immediately called for Cana to give them the strongest shots she got. Juvia returned her attention to said woman, just in time to see the man heading towards the exit while she was making her way to them before she sighed. "Men are so simple creatures. Show them a little bit of skin, some sweet talk into their ears and next thing you know, you've covered the monthly rent", she readjusted her bikini top and started mixing some cocktails into a shaker. She then looked at Juvia sneakily with the latter waggling at her stool uncomfortably. "Speaking of men, our new friend in here seems to have bewitched Gray. He's practically eating you with his eyes."

"Juvia," Levy sounded from the other side of where Lucy was sitting, "spill the tea. What's up with you and Gray?"

Juvia internally screamed at how the attention was at her and the nothing more than her strictly professional relationship with Gray-sama. Or so she wanted to convince herself. "Nothing is going on between me and Gray-sama, he was just kind enough to come and-"

"Gray-sama?" Cana placed the shots in front of the girls and shared the same shocked expression as the other two. "Oh well, that's some kinky shit over there. Come on," she said rising her shot, the others following apart from Juvia, "Bottom's up!" She raised her eyebrow at the bluenette and looked at her shot that was still standing in front of her.

"You see, Juvia is not much of a heavy drinker. In fact Juvia doesn't drink at all, so" she gave an apologetic smile and pushed her shot away.

"Lucky for you then that there is a first time for everything. Come on Juvia, don't be a party pooper," the barwoman insisted pushing her shot back, while the others were waiting for her to join them.

She hesitantly raised the small glass with the orange liquid in it and smelled it, making a face of disgust due to the strong smell while the others started encouraging her. Letting out a final breath, she brought the strange smelling liquid up to her lips and gave it a small try. What came into contact with her taste buds though din not please her. In fact, it burned her and immediately backed away from it. Before she could put the glass behind though, Lucy caught her hand and brought it back in her mouth. "It's called bottom's up for a reason Juvia. If you drink it in doses it's gonna be worse. Just, up and down", she said and proceeded to display exactly how it's done.

'Up and down, up and down, up and- Sweet Jesus help me' and with that she gulped it down earning a lot of cheering from her surroundings. And god, did it taste awful. She felt her insides burning, her head was heavy and she started coughing. Exactly, why is everyone so addicted to that abomination?

"The first's time tough, you'll get used to it with a few more, worry not." Cana was on her way to make some more of those little hellish things.

"More? Uhm, Juvia doesn't think she should drink anymore" said self-consciously, as to not offend the others.

"I said don't worry. Even if you get drunk, I can always tag a paper with your name and where you live and problem solved. Been there, done that." From the way Juvia's eyes shot open like out from a cartoon scene, she added, "I'm…kidding? For you. 'Cause I've really been there. It was this time in that fraternity party with those two guys from the swimming club and-"

"Aaaand we don't want to hear about your immoral orgies, thank you very much." That was Erza who had just joined them. Cana simply rolled her eyes muttering a small 'prudes' followed by Erza's 'I heard you!'

"At least get to know the girl before digging into her sex life for god's sake."

Without Juvia realizing, the other barwoman, Mirajane, had inched closer. The more she came closer though, the more she was looking at her in awe as she started feeling things that didn't know existed in her, like how pretty she was, and how she threw her long, soft, white hair at the back in a swift motion or how she gave her that eye-smile- holy moly fucking shit, was she a lesbian all along? Is that an awaken call?' While Juvia was having her little mental breakdown questioning her sexuality, the others looked at her frozen as she was murmuring furiously to herself. 'Juvia, you are hundred percent straight, you like boys with willies, not..not girls! Definitely not girls. Now, think of Rufus Lore, that's it. Rufus Lore, Rufus Lore, Rufus Lore, Gray-sama, Gray-sama, Gr-' WHAT? How come her dysfunctional brain put Gray-sama next to her dreamy actor? 'That's it, you are to never drink again.'

"Juvia? Are you feeling alright?" The poor blonde looked at her friend in concern.

'Heh, alright my ass' Juvia cursed at herself. Turning her head around, she was sure. They must all think she is crazy. Big time. 'There you go. The socially misfit Juvia Lockser strikes again. Congratulations' "Juvia, just remembered of something from work, nothing important" she dismissed her while laughing it off.

The blonde breathed in relief. "If it's just that. To hell with it. Let's go for round two," she ordered putting the two barwomen in action once again.

'Again? Are these people for real?' her brain screamed. A small glass appeared again in front of her, different from the orange liquid they others were given and shot a strange look at the ethereal barwoman.

The other party was quick to reassure her. "I figured since you didn't fancy what Cana gave you, perhaps you would love some sweet wine. You can drink as much as you want. It tastes really fruity, trust me." 'Sweet thing, you thought of Juvia's likings. You could give Juvia oil and she could still drink it with the way you smile at her,' she daydreamed again and mentally slapped herself. 'Put your shit together Lockser, the hell is wrong with you?'

In the meantime, Cana scooped closer to Lucy to whisper. "She is the she-devil indeed. She gave the poor girl sangria in order to make her spill everything and she didn't even figure it out," she said while the blonde nodded in agreement.

After the fourth shot of sangria the devilish barwoman had served her with a smile on her face, Juvia was…happy, to say the least. She had relaxed, opening up and enjoying herself over the loud music and talking about whatever came up to the conversation. They didn't push her further about the whole Gray thing, and she thanked the heavens for that. In all honesty, she didn't remember when it was the last time that she enjoyed herself. Had she ever, really? Who would tell her that a few shots of that sweet wine would make life so much easier?

"Oh right, Juvia, how are your driving lessons going?" asked Lucy all of a sudden and Levy all but choked on her drink.

"Your what? You are taking driving lessons? Does Gajeel know? Omg." Levy panicked thinking about the upcoming disaster.

In a normal day Juvia would be alarmed at such information spoken out loud, especially in a place where Gajeel was present in a distance of no more than 100 meters. But right at the moment, alcohol running through her system. she didn't find it in her to panic. She just brought her index finger up to her lips and made a 'shh'. "Juvia kept it a secret from Gajeel and he is to never find out or Juvia will be in trouble. But she is doing alright, she guesses. She is trying her best. And after all," she unconsciously turned to look to the side where the boys were sitting, with Gray turning just in time to catch her eyes, "she has a really, really, really good tutor," she finished turning her attention back at them. "Oh, the things Juvia has put him through though," she started laughing remembering all her fails during her small period of training.

"And why trying for a license is wrong? Is it because you are a woman? I swear to god, men can be such primitive, mocking assholes when they see a woman behind a wheel. Like they are any better" Erza practically fumed and started telling them her own story of how she got her driving license, with the others joining not long after. But there was something bugging Cana and couldn't help but ask.

"Say Juvia, which school is the one you enrolled?"

"Mr. Macao's school, in the center of Magnolia", Juvia asked innocently while getting a taste of her drink. Erza resumed the talk about how equality was overstepped by some capitalistic pigs who thought that the place of women is in front of the kitchen counter, clearly mentioning her boss who Erza had set in mind to replace and show him where women belonged, alright. Levy argued with her, telling her that generalizing is as good as being one of those 'capitalistic pigs' and for a few moments the conversation was going back and forth like that.

Cana easily bored, moved a little further to dry some glasses. While doing so, she caught sight of Gray looking more times than not to the small circle of her friends, or rather at a particular bluenette and smiled. After all he needed a distraction from the unrequited love of that trainee of his, she thought. And that was the moment it hit her. Gray was a driving teacher. Gray loved some strange trainee of his. Gray worked at Macao's. Juvia is going to Macao's. Juvia was pretty clumsy, at least that's what she told them. Gray went straight to Juvia when she entered the bar. Juvia kept stealing glances from Gray. That prick was practically fixing her up with his gaze. "Motherfucker" she lifelessly whispered as realization came to her. These are too connected to be just coincidences. Juvia. The girl Gray's been talking about is Juvia. She got to be her. She matches all the boxes.

She threw her towel down and made her way to the boys. Natsu was all around the place telling them about something that she didn't even bother listen to and placed her palms on top of the counter, right in front of Gray, startling the three of them. "You sly bastard" she fixed him with a dirty look.

"Sorry?" Was she possessed or something? The fuck is wrong with the girl.

"Yes exactly, you should be sorry for not saying anything." She folded her arms under her breasts and waited.

"The fuck you talking about? You drunk?"

"Juvia. I'm talking about Juvia, Fullbuster, and don't you dare deny it.

He felt as someone had thrown a bucket of ice water in his face. How did that vixen figure out about Juvia? Did Juvia say anything? He dared a quick look at her. Well, she seemed rather talkative. Nah, she wouldn't. Right?

"Man, is it true? Your confusing girl is hot stuff right there?" said Loke, not believing at his ears.

"Be quiet you idiots. Just," he sighed, "be quiet."

Natsu was yet to proceed what was going on and kept quiet regardless.

"Why are you being so secretive? I don't understand." Cana insisted.

"I don't. It's just, she probably doesn't want Gajeel to find out. About the license s' all. At least, that's what I think. I haven't talked to her yet." He looked back at the girls again, unsure himself of Juvia;s peculiar behavior.

"You pussy." Loke scoffed.

"Excuse you?"

"You heard me. You're a wuss. Not hitting on sizzling hot babe because you are afraid of that prick." He was getting angrier by the second, not accepting that he was losing his chance with the hottie because his friend was a pure idiot. "Grow a pair and go talk to her like a man, or I will. Pussy."

And that was it. Gray felt his blood stared to boil. Like hell he would let the likes of Loke look down on him or getting anywhere near his girl. "Fuck off you shithead. I saw her first. She is my girl. Mine. Go stick your dick somewhere else."

Cana looked over to Loke who was now smirking. 'Boys. Such simple creatures' she thought yet again. "Not like sharing what's theirs.' "Loke's right. Go talk to her before someone else does."

"Do the others know?"

"Nah. I just figured it out, they didn't connect the dots. And you say Levy's the smart one in here." She bragged and went to take the orders from a few guys that had just arrived.

A moment of silence followed but Natsu broke it. "You like Juvia?" The other two just groaned and slapped his head, like, how can someone be so slow? As Natsu was ready to fight back, the lights on the stage turned on and the penetrating sound of an electric guitar cut the air. 'Metalicana' went on stage and the crowd, already drunk and high, circled the stage cheering out loud. Gajeel greeted them, the other two took their positions and soon the party was on.

All their friends had moved closer to the stage enjoying the live, headbanging and singing along with them. All except one bluenette who was standing further than the others, not mixing so much with the crowd. That was Gray's cue, he thought. He sipped his last drops of beer, fixed his hair a bit, managed his courage and made his way to her, receiving a thumbs-up from Cana. Loke had already his tongue down a blonde girl's throat, so he didn't worry about him.

Juvia was in a very bad mood when she walked through the doors of the bar. But now, it didn't seem such a bad idea. It's been ages since she last enjoyed herself, not even remembering if she ever went to a club before. And the others didn't seem all that bad. Perhaps Gajeel and the girls were right. She couldn't keep on sulking about her pathetic life forever. Maybe, just maybe, all she needed was to get out and have a good time. Even if it were for a few hours, she could leave behind all the things that troubled her and made her question her life. Maybe she needed a good distraction after all.

"Having a good time?"

Speaking of distraction.

"Juvia is."

She didn't have to look back to see who was the stranger talking to her. He wasn't a stranger. She knew that voice. That deep, heavy voice. A smile found its way on her lips at the same time strong arms wrapped her waist gently and her back came in touch with a well-defined chest. She would be such a liar to deny the fact that she liked the feeling. Apprehensively, she brought her hands on top of his, cupping them. What a pleasant contrast that was. Her soft, long fingers atop his hard muscles. Like earlier, the only thing that could focus on was him, everything else now long forgotten, like time itself had stopped. He made it so easy to captivate her, it was almost frightening, yet exciting.

But then she remembered that she owed him some explanations and she tensed. Felling that, Gray slowly turned her around and looked her dead in the eyes. She wasn't sure whether the loud thumping came from the bass or the way her own heart was jumping inside her chest by being this close to him. She took a moment to study the man, his sharp yet soft features, his slightly tanned skin, his beautiful black eyes and those spiky black hair of his. When god was creating him he surely made sure to mix into the pot his best quality ingredients.

Guilt washed over her once more and she bit her lip. The arms around her waist tightened a bit and she looked up at their owner. He had turned serious, his eyes focusing on her lips. "Gray-sama?"

He blinked and turned his head to the side, snorting. "You are making it so difficult for me to keep in line, Juvia."

'Making it hard for him? She was making it hard for him? Wanna switch roles to see who has it tougher in here?' she wondered. But there was an explanation somewhere around the corner, and it was the least she could offer him. Nervous as she was, she didn't think much when her left hand snuck up his clothed chest and started fidgeting with the fabric there. "Gray-sama, about tonight, Juvia wants to tell you that-"

"Stop." That brought her by surprise and if she was honest, quiet hurt her. She sighed and was about to let go of him when he pulled her back. "You are going to give me whatever your reason is tomorrow. On our date." He grinned, feeling her tensing once more.

Was she deaf? Was she imagining things? Did he just say 'date' as if saying, hey, let's go shopping? But a date? Him? With her? That thingy where two people actually go out together? That thing kind of date? The couply thingy? What the absolute, utter, fuck?

The silence started bothering Gray, suddenly not so sure of himself and ominous thoughts of his earlier conversation with Loke mentioning a B word came back. "Um, I'm not rushing anything right? You never said anything but I thought you are…single? Like, there is no," he gulped "boyfriend?" 'God please say no.'

Was it the night to shock Juvia Lockser? From asking her on a date to asking her if she's taken? Who? Her? Boyfriend? With what qualifications exactly would she have a boyfriend? For all she cared was a potato. No wonder he- 'Alright, stop it right there, no bad thouths. No bad thougts.' She breathed out a laugh. "No Gray-sama, Juvia's single."

'Ten points to Gryffindor. Suck on that Natsu, how does this feel? B words stand for Bullshits!' The last time Gray was so happy was when his team had won the championship.

"Although Juvia had a somewhat a sexuality impeachment earlier," she added.

'Aaaand Slytherin turns the match over ladies and gentlemen.' Oh no, no, no, no, no, not in fucking hell, a thousands times no. Is she a lesbian? Is fucking-sucking-son-of-a-bitch-gingerhead Loke right? A bright laughter brought him up.

"Relax Gray-sama, you became paler than Juvia. She is not a lesbian. It's just Mirajane has that effect on people I guess," she finished, still laughing.

'Heh, Mirajane. Not a lesbian. Defo not a lesbian.' He would be forever traumatized if he lost her over Mirajane. Now, that was something to scar you for life. He looked over the bar, where the woman at question was talking to Cana, and instinctively held Juvia a little closer. A still-laughing Juvia it seems. "Hey, this…this is not funny. I pissed my pants in here. Yeah okay, not really pissed my pants, gross, but, y' know."

"Gray-sama?"

"Yeah?" He focused back to her.

"About that date-"

"It's not up for question, thank you very much. Not after the scare you gave me. Plus, it is my little reward to keep my mouth shut from that metal idiot, don't you think?" He smirked at her and enjoyed the way she gasped.

"I-Is this…Are you blackmailing Juvia?" She asked, stunned.

"100% yes. I am. So, to redeem from your sins and the trouble you put this pure man into, you can't refuse but go out on a date with me. Tomorrow evening. You can say thank you for being so generous, I don't mind."

"Thank you," she mumbled without realizing, causing a satisfied laugh out of the man. "Wait, no, I mean, we need to talk about this, please Gray-sama. A date," she shook her head, "not a good idea." The things that could go wrong, she thought. She could write a volume and that still wouldn't suffice. Bad, terrible, horrific idea. She was lost in her dark thoughts, when she felt something pulling at her bottom lip who, she, apparently started biting, barely noticing.

"The only thing that can go wrong, Juvia," he said while brushing his thumb over her lip, "would be me kissing you right now without having even brought you to out to our first date. And that," he continued and Juvia all but melted at a puddle right there, "would not pose me as such of a gentleman, would it?" He finished, moving his hand to cup her right cheek.

Despite his sayings, they started inching closer, both already having their eyes closed, noses slightly touching, and it was all so intense, so exciting. Juvia held him from the front of his shirt like her life depended on it. Just a bit more and-

"Thank you for coming tonight!" The lights in the bar went on, stopping the inevitable. They stood there, none moving, none daring to open their eyes, breathing heavily. Finally, Gray, gently brushed his finger over her cheek, exhaling and then backed away slightly. Juvia opened her eyes as well when Gray spoke. "Tomorrow." She inched close again, only to put a light kiss on the brick of her nose. "Let's go find the others, before that prick cut my balls.

Heavens must have been with them, being at the far corner of the bar, away from the prying eyes, and especially some sharp-red eyes about to turn fuming-crimson ones if find out about this. But Gajeel was way into his own world, making out with Levy, at the side of the stage. Perhaps, Levy had a kink for rock-star Gajeel, who knows? Thinking of which...

"Juvia is a terrible friend." She let a disappointed laugh.

Gray looked at her questioningly. "And what makes you that?"

"Juvia came here to watch Gajeel, but she, um, got…distracted," she admitted with a blush.

"Was it a good distraction?"

'You have no idea,' she wanted to scream, but she wouldn't fuel his ego so easily. "Well," she moved forward, stopping after a while and looking back at an expecting Gray, "it was…ok, I guess." The look on his face was priceless. 'A win for Juvia,' she giggled and went to find the others who were already started getting their stuff.

"Hey Juvia, have you seen Gray? We lost you two" came from Cana who acted it out to pretend she hadn't been watching the two. Before the poor girl could say anything, she took pity on her and signaled her to come closer. "Don't worry, I know everything. But I'm as good as dead." She zipped her fingers over her shut mouth to prove her point, and winked at her. "We'll talk about this. You made a friend today. I liked you."

The next thing she knew, they were all out of the bar, picking their rides. It came as no question that she would ride Gajeel's car. As they bid their goodbyes, Gray somehow brought his hand on the small of her back, murmuring a small 'see you tomorrow' that left Juvia standing there like an idiot. Before she could move, he was already on his bike, Gajeel calling her from the driver' seat to get back in.

"Say I was right." It took her a while to realize Gajeel was talking to her.

"About what?"

"About making you come out. You had fun, didn't you? Plus, the guys liked you." Levy nodded and agreed to that.

"They weren't that…bad. I guess."

"Tsk. Idiot." That was Gajeel's way to show his affection to someone, and she knew it. "What about us? We fucking rocked. You saw that right? I bet you had the time of your life."

"You have no idea." She smiled and looked out of the window.

The time of her life indeed.

When they reached her home, she bent forward to give Levy and a grumpy-refusing-Gajeel a kiss, bid her 'good night's' and stepped off the car. She acknowledged the janitor who was between sleep and awake, called for the lift and finally, she was outside of her apartment. She fumbled a bit to find her keys, unlocked the door and typed in the code to set the alarm off. She then felt her throat being dry, and she grabbed a cold bottle of water from the fridge, emptying its content into a glass from the sink. God, that was refreshing. But what would also be refreshing was a nice bath.

She stripped out of her clothes and shoes, took the jewelry off carefully and stepped inside the shower. Her body welcomed the first hot drops of water and she closed her eyes. That was heaven. Her mind drifted back to the events regarding her night at the bar. The shower's temperature rose all of a sudden. Gray-sama. Did it really happen? Or did she dream all about it? Did he really asked her on a date tomorrow? A date, is it?

"Hey beautiful." He was waiting for her outside of the building, leaning on his silver BMW. She gave him a big smile and picked up her pace. Once close, she threw her arms around him and he gave her a small kiss. "Ready?"

She just nodded. Too excited to finally see him after a week. He opened the door for her and she climbed in. Seconds later, he was also in, fastening his seatbelt. He put the keys inthe ignition and turned them to start the car, "Where are we going?"

"To the best restaurant in town. They said they didn't have any tables for tonight, but I had none of that." The car stopped in a red light. "Anything for you." He let his right arm off the wheel, took hers and slowly brought it to his lips, kissing the back of it.

His words were like honey for her soul. His actions were taking her away from her cell, to a place where she was happy. With him. It was all about him.

The restaurant was full of people from their social statue, she could tell. Parking their expensive cars to the front and giving their keys to the valet to do the job for them. The ladies, all dressed up with the latest fashion, a competition of who's wearing the most expensive designer, hanging from their male's arm like ornaments. Like her.

They were taken to their table, waitress already handing them menus with a smile on her face, stealing a few glances at him. Juvia brushed it off, missing the fact the he, too, was glancing at the girl, with the round, small, pretty face. They gave her their order and she left, giving him a final look.

"So, how was your trip love?" Juvia said, bringing her hand on top of his on the table.

"The usual. Meeting after meeting with boring old men. But successful nonetheless. Your father's name is bringing us a step closer to those deals. But," he connected their hands together, "you weren't there."

"Well, you said Juvia wouldn't see you at all, and you didn't want her waiting there all alone. You do care about her, don't you?" Her eyes were hopeful and full of love.

"Of course love. I-" the sound from his ringtone filled the air. He didn't answer though. He cleared his throat and stood up. "It's an important call, love, I'll be right back." He left before she could ask questions.

Waiting there, she saw him getting out and answering the call. He was smiling and playing with the ring on his right hand. For a moment, uncertainty filled her insides as she saw him laughing. He then ended the call and turned back. "I feel I have some bad news to tell you love. Unfortunately we'll have to make this short. I got a meeting tomorrow and I have to get this presentation ready." He sighed. "I hate this. I'm so sorry love."

Her throat tightened. "It's ok. As long as I get to see you, it's alright. Even if it's for a little." She smiled to hide her pain. How much she wanted to be with him just a bit more. But it was his job. She couldn't be a hindrance to him.

"Well, am I not lucky to have you?"

They stayed for thirty minutes, leaving as soon as they ate. She dropped her home, with the promise of meeting again soon. He didn't open the door for her, being in hurry. Before she could say the three words to him, he was already disappearing in the corner.

"I love you."

Huh. Fool.

She felt tears streaming down her face. Dates. Should she refuse? What if… Doubt was eating her. What if he was just like him? Why is he confusing her so much? Why is he making her feel all those weird things she had decided never to feel again? And why was she succumbing to him so easily? Why?

He was more than perfect and she was a broken mess. Nothing was special about her except her ability to be inadequate. So why someone like him ask on a date someone like her? Was this a game? Maybe he wanted to play with her. Maybe…

'Not everyone is like that bastard Juvia. You won't stay single forever because of that son of a bitch. If only you had let me put my hands on him, that preppy, sly, motherfucker, I swear to god. But, not everyone's like that. There are still some worthy guys out there. Me for example.' She shook her head and smiled remembering Gajeel's words. Is he really one of those nice guys? Should she let her heart hope again?

She stepped out of the shower and headed to her room. She found a nice, soft pair of pajamas and tucked herself into bed. Before she closed her eyes, she checked her phone. She abruptly sat up.

From: Gray-sama

Did you get home safely?

Oh my god. She wanted to type an answer but her fingers didn't cooperate. Just when she was doubting herself, this man came right in to take her mind away.

To: Gray-sama

Safe and sound Gray-sama. Thank you! What about you?

She pressed 'send' and waited. The answer came within seconds.

From: Gray-sama

My driving skills are…ok, I guess

She laughed remembering the little stunt she pulled back at the club.

To: Gray-sama

Still bitter about it?

From: Gray-sama

Guess I'll have to do a better job tomorrow

Tomorrow. Their date. There came another reply.

From: Gray-sama

Be ready at 8 pm. I'll come pick you up.

She still wanted to give him a chance to get out of this.

To: Gray-sama

Are you really sure about the date? Gray-sama? If you have more important things to do, I'll understand

From: Gray-sama

The only important thing I'll have to do tomorrow is to take you out on a date. And if you chicken out, remember, I know where you live.

That frustratingly, sweet man.

To: Gray-sama

Then 8 pm it is. May I ask where are we going?

From: Gray-sama

You may ask but you may not receive an answer.

Really, what did she expect?

To: Gray-sama

But what should Juvia wear? Shouldn't I know that at least?

From: Gray-sama

That's a risky question to ask while in bed. Anyway, something casual. You look good in everything anyway

Oh. My. God. Stop.

To: Gray-sama

Stop flirting Gray-sama!

She brought her left palm on her cheek and it was hot already.

From: Gray-sama

I bet you just blushed. Adorable. Anyway, as lovely as it is talking to you it's getting late. Go get some sleep. See you tomorrow

She looked around the room. Had he put cameras in here?

To: Gray-sama

Sweet dreams to you too.

P.S. I did not blush

From: Gray-sama

Don't dream of me too much

P.S. Sure you didn't Juvs ;)

She kept staring at the messages for a minute longer before turning it off and putting it on the nightstand. She then threw herself on the mattress, squeaking like a high-school girl. She didn't know whether her heart was going to be broken again. All she knew was that even for just a little bit, she was happy.

I hope I didn't disappoint too much. Anyway, I would love to hear from you, you have every right to boo me, I swear I won't say a word. See you when I see you!