Following the path lined with yellow roses, Lucy made her way to the manor where the rest of the wedding guests were socializing. Cocktail hour was being held in a few of the first floor rooms. Many guests were enjoying themselves, walking amongst the connected rooms, conversing, drinking and nibbling on finger foods. Lucy's stomach growled slightly and she desperately needed a drink, but she couldn't relax just yet. She had to herd the 100 guests into the ballroom where the main reception was taking place.

She spoke to one of the wait staff to gather his help in directing the guests to the ballroom. He nodded and motioned for the other waiters and waitresses to follow his lead as he politely began ushering guests to their seats. Lucy told the bartenders to close the bars, giving the guests another incentive to leave the rooms. Follow the booze; Lucy thought as more and more guests left after realizing the bar was closed.

"There you are," a voice called out to her as Lucy finished checking to make sure there were no more lingering guests. Turning towards the voice, Lucy's features broke into a smile as she recognized the person.

"Gray!" She called back as a man dressed in a smart black suit with an ice blue tie came walking towards her.

"I've been looking all over for you. Please tell me you're done with your maid-of-honor duties and I don't have to be alone with these strangers." Gray pleaded.

Lucy gave him an apologetic look and shook her head. "Sorry Gray. There are still things I need to do."

Gray closed his eyes and ran a hand through his black hair. "Well at least take a minute to eat and drink something," he said as he handed her a plate he had been holding. There were grapes, a mini sandwich and some cheese squares. "All the fancy stuff is gone, but I managed to hold onto these. Eat this and I'll go grab you a drink."

Before she could protest, Gray walked over to the closed bar. A few flirtatious words from Gray and the giggling bartender handed him a mixed drink. By the time he had returned, Lucy was placing the last grape into her mouth. He raised his eyebrows in amusement, chuckling as he took the plate from her and handed Lucy her drink.

"I guess I was a little hungry," she admitted, sipping her drink. Already, she could feel the tension in her nerves relaxing with something on her stomach and the alcohol in her.

"Only a little?" Gray laughed again as Lucy blushed and looked away. "I guess I can survive with the strangers a little longer why you go and do your maid-of-honor thing. Just don't overwork yourself. If you need help with something, just let me know. After all, I am your date for this thing."

Gray Fullbuster stood tall and handsome in his suit, ever the reliable man Lucy knew him to be. When she had first moved to the city, Gray was the first person she had met. They had become instant friends, both struggling artists at the time. They would meet up regularly to complain about their rejections, give each other pep talks when one really needed it, and congratulate each other whenever the artistic world smiled kindly on them. Gray was an artist whose medium was oil painting. He was so talented; Lucy was in awe of his skill. When her first book sold, she commissioned him to paint the cover art of her book so she could show it off. Some fancy, rich investor fell in love with Gray's style and started commissioning him regularly. That had been the luck he needed to get his name out into the world. Now he was booked constantly by the nouveau-riche, blue-bloods, and the elite of high society to paint murals, portraits, etc. When they had social events, they would often bring each other in order to ward off any unwanted attention.

"Thank you Gray. But I really need to check to make sure all the guests are in the ballroom. Wendy should be bringing Gajeel and Levy this way now, and I want things to go smoothly for their grand entrance. Also, I need to run down to the kitchen to check on dinner." Lucy started rambling off the items on her mental checklist, realizing that there was a mountain of work there still needed to be done in order to make sure Levy's day was perfect. "And then after dinner, I'll give my speech and then the best man-" She stopped remembering who the best man was. She rolled her eyes and huffed loudly. Gray picked up on her change of emotion, arching an eyebrow at her.

"I meant to ask you about that. " He said, but Lucy just shook her head.

"Don't worry about it. I'll fill you in later."

Gray held her gaze for a moment, trying to decide to push the topic or not. He just sighed and crossed his arms against his chest, his muscles becoming more defined by the action.

"Fine later," he agreed. "Now go off and make sure everyone is in the ballroom. I'll go check on dinner for you."

"Thanks Gray. "

"No need to thank me. Free food and booze are the two main reasons people go to these things anyway." He waved off her thanks, stopping before exiting the room to look back and smile at Lucy. "Just save a dance for me, kay?"

"Definitely," she called after him as he left.

Hurrying to the ballroom, Lucy slipped into the room to make sure everything was in place. She had come with Levy to check out the manor for the venue and already thought the space looked grand. Yet, with the decorations in place, the ballroom looked like something out of a fairy tale. There were crystal chandeliers sparkling across the ceiling and a giant one that hovered in the center of the room where the white dance floor was set up. With the lights dimmed, the chandeliers looked like stars sparkling. The round tables hovered a comfortable distance away from the dancefloor and were covered in champagne colored silk linens. The centerpieces consisted of tall floral masterpieces; clusters of white roses and orchids bloomed from clear vases, with orange roses sprinkled in. Levy was determined to get orange in her wedding somewhere and the centerpieces satisfied that. Tea light candles were placed on the tables as well to give the space an even more intimate feel. Each table was set for six; the dinner plates had a small card on top, indicating who sat where. Lucy and Levy had spent hours together, making sure everyone had the perfect placement. As she walked to her table, her eyes were mentally checking to see if everyone was supposed to be in their designated seats. From the looks of it, everyone was accounted for. With a sigh, Lucy observed her table. Gajeel and Levy were seated next to each other. On Gajeel's right, Wendy was placed and next to her was Natsu. Looking at his card, it merely read "Best Man." No wonder she didn't recognize his name when they had met at the bookshop. Not once, if her memory was correct, had Levy or Gajeel referred to Natsu by his name. Whenever Lucy was helping Levy plan, he was only ever referred to by his title.

Her eyes noticed that her name was on top of the dinner plate next to his. She quickly switched Wendy's name with his, preferring Gajeel's little sister's company far more than Natsu's. That left Gray to be placed on her right and then back to Levy. Lucy had made the comment that they would just spend the whole night gossiping and giggling together if they had sat by each other. With Gray as a buffer, the gossiping and giggling would be cut in half…supposedly.

Satisfied that everyone was here and things were in order, Lucy went to go find the bride and groom. Before leaving she saw Gray come in through the back entrance of the ballroom. He caught her eye and gave her a thumbs up, indicating dinner was on schedule. She nodded her thanks and left the room.

Retracing her steps, Lucy went back to the rooms where cocktail hour had been held. Believing the bride and groom to be there, she was slightly worried by their absence. In was way past the 5 minute time limit she had given both the photographer and Wendy. She knew that Levy would need a rest after the spur of emotions and events she had been going through. Being a bride was quite demanding and it was Lucy's job to make sure Levy felt as little of that demand as possible. She stopped by the bar, picking up a couple bottles of water. Walking outside, Lucy spotted the missing couple with Wendy a few steps ahead of them coming up the rose-lined path. When Wendy saw Lucy she quickly walked towards her.

"I'm sorry Lucy!" Wendy cried. "The photographer wouldn't listen to me after I told him you said only 5 more minutes. He kept saying "okay after this shot" If Natsu hadn't stepped in we still would be taking pictures." She explained.

Lucy smiled down at Wendy and patted her head. She handed her a bottle of water and Wendy thanked her.

"Don't worry about it Wendy. You did a great job." Lucy reassured. "Do you remember where the ballroom is?"

Wendy nodded her head and took a sip of water.

"Right. If you could go there and find our table that will be a big help. That way, Levy and Gajeel know where to go after they make their entrance."

Excited to be given another job, Wendy skipped into the manor towards the ballroom. Levy and Gajeel arrived afterwards, looking exhausted.

"I'm never taking another picture again," Gajeel said grumpily.

"I'm so proud of you for not losing your temper," Levy giggled in response. "I was so amazed."

"Hey Shrimp! You act like I lose my temper all the time." He pinched her cheeks as he spoke.

"Gaaajeeel," Levy whined trying to smack his hand away.

Lucy laughed watching the two of them together. She was used to their antics, knowing this was one of Gajeel's ways he showed he cared. Even if he picked on her, he would do anything is his power to protect Levy and keep her smiling.

"Bunny-girl, are those waters for us?" Gajeel's use of his nickname for her use to get on Lucy's nerves. But after two years she's grown accustomed to it.

"Yeah, I thought you guys might be thirsty." She handed a bottle to Gajeel and Levy, the two drinking quickly. Lucy had been right.

"Thanks, but if I have to take any more pictures I'm going to need something stronger than water." Gajeel said, crushing his empty water bottle in his hand.

"I agree, plus I'm getting hungry." Levy confessed.

"Don't worry Lev, you two can rest momentarily. Everything is set up and on track for dinner. All you need to do is enter the ballroom, let everyone cheer for you, and then we'll start dinner."

"Alright!" Gajeel cheered. "Let's go then." He grabbed Levy's wrist and started walking faster. The promise of food quickening his pace. Lucy lifted up her hem to keep up. She noticed Natsu wasn't with them, and thought to ask where he was but stopped herself. He must have gotten lost. She thought. Oh well, it's not my job to keep track of him. The trio stopped in front of the ballroom doors. Lucy grabbed their empty water bottles, circling them to make sure everything else was in place.

"I'll go in first and give the MC the cue that you're ready. When you hear him call you, that's when-"

"We enter. They cheer. We eat." Gajeel interrupted.

"Uh- yeah. Don't forget to smile." Lucy said as she left the door outside the door, walking towards the MC. She deposited the empty water bottles in a nearby trash and then relayed her requests to the MC. He nodded at her instructions, and Lucy stood by the DJ station to make sure everything proceeded accordingly.

"Ladies and Gentlemen please jump up from your seats and put your hands together as I introduce to you, Mr. and Mrs. Gajeel Redfoooooox!" The MC spoke into the mike and the guests stood, applauding enthusiastically as Gajeel literally ran into the ballroom, carrying Levy over his shoulder. Lucy smacked her forehead with her hand, groaning at the sight.

"Quick cheering so we can eat." He roared, as he ran to their table, Levy holding on for dear life.

"Er-Uhm" the MC was at a lost as to what to say after witnessing the bride and groom's entrance. Lucy walked over to him and took the mike. The guests were looking at each other a little confused as to what to do next.

"Thank you to everyone for joining Levy and Gajeel on this special day. They wish not to bore you with long speeches, so if you could please take your seats dinner will now be served."

On cue, the back doors to the ballroom opened. Waiters and waitresses in matching black shirts and pants entered, covered dishes on giant treys balanced on one hand, a bottle of wine in the other. Each server came to stand behind the chair of a guest, and simultaneously, they placed the dish in front of the guest and removed the cover. The servers then poured fine wine into each clear glass. Their coordinated movements had a splendid overall effect that eclipsed Gajeel's earlier abruptness. The guests applauded the servers as they left, digging into their meals hungrily. The MC had the DJ play some low background music, encircling the room with another layer of warmth. Satisfied that things were smoothed over, Lucy went to take her place at the bridal table.

Upon approaching the table, she noticed something was not right. Levy and Gajeel were sitting happily, eating their dinner. Yet, Gray was sitting on Gajeel's right where Wendy should have been, and Wendy was sitting next to Levy. The only empty space at the table was to Gray's left and next to that space sat a pink haired idiot she had been trying to avoid.

Levy waved Lucy over, seeing her friend approach, giving her an apologetic look. "I moved some places around. Wendy wanted to sit by me, so Gray traded spots with her. But I made sure you two were still sitting by each other." Levy explained.

"It's no big deal," Lucy shrugged taking her seat. Gray stood and held the chair out for her, and she gave him a smile. Out of her peripheral, she noticed Natsu staring at them. It would be no big deal. She told herself. Get through this dinner and then you can avoid the pink porcupine for the rest of the night.

"That was quite an entrance you made, Gajeel." Lucy said, cutting into her chicken. She gave him a pointed look, which he ignored as he cut savagely into his steak. Levy groaned, remembering her near-death experience.

"That was not my idea of an entrance," Levy said, shaking her head.

"What? You said enter. So we did. You said we could eat after they cheered. They cheered. Now look we're eating." He argued. "Also, I even smiled."

"Smile?" Natsu laughed. "You called that death glare a smile? I've seen pigs smile better than that."

"Oh been looking in a mirror lately?" Gajeel retorted.

"Want to go Gajeel!" Natsu and Gajeel stood up simultaneously, glaring at each other across the table. Lucy was about to say something, when Levy interrupted them instead.

"Gajeel. Natsu," She smiled, saying each of their names sweetly. They both turned their glares towards her. "It seems you've forgotten that you're at my wedding not some rowdy bar. Please remember that. But if you can't, I can always help you remember." Though Levy's tone was still light, the aura she was given off was dark. They both gulped and sat down immediately.

"Great!" Levy clasped her hands together, beaming at the people around the table.

"I've never seen Levy like that," Gray whispered into Lucy's ear and the truth was, neither had Lucy. Though, after Natsu and Gajeel sat down, Levy's dark aura faded.

"Oi," Natsu said, turning his attention to Gray. "Who are you anyway? I've never seen you before."

"I'm her date." Gray responded, looking at Natsu with a hard stare as they both sized each other up. Natsu looked at Gray then at Lucy and started laughing.

"What's so funny about that?" Gray asked annoyed

"There's no way blondie would go for a guy like you." Natsu managed to say, still laughing.

"What's that's supposed to mean?" Gray started to stand in protest, but one look from Levy stilled him. Lucy placed a hand on his shoulder and he sat back down. "You don't even know her."

"Sure I do," Natsu said, leaning back in his chair. "We've met before. We went shopping together."

"Really?" Gray looked at Lucy, his question directed to her.

"I didn't know you guys knew each other." Levy stated surprised.

One look at him and the same irritation from the other day came back to Lucy. He was smirking again and she just couldn't stand it. He was twisting their initial encounter as if it were an average meeting.

"We met before," Lucy agreed, forcing the words out. "But we didn't go shopping together. We just happened to be in the same store. I didn't even know who he was. I thought he was some hotheaded customer." She corrected.

Gajeel started laughing loudly. It was now Gray's turn to lean back in his chair smirking.

"Natsu you were in town and didn't say hi?" Wendy pouted.

"It was for…business." He explained. "Trust me, if I could have stayed longer I definitely would have." Natsu looked at Lucy as he said that, but she just looked away.

Before anyone else could say anything, the MC's voice was calling for their attention. A few entertainers came to perform for the guests while everyone finished their meals. The servers returned once more, removing their dinner plates. Lucy looked at her watch, calling up the schedule in her head.

"Levy. Gajeel." She called to them. "It's time for your first dance, are you ready?" Lucy asked.

"Time to show everyone my sweet moves!" Gajeel said, standing up quickly.

"You're not flinging me up in the air again," Levy warned standing up as well.

"I'll go make sure the music is set for the dance." Lucy stood and walked to the DJ where the MC was standing as well.

"Ah Lucy!" The MC called her over. "I was just about to announce the first dance. Are the bride and groom ready?"

"Yeah, they're ready. I just came to make sure the music was all set." The DJ nodded down to her from his station.

"Okay then do your thing." She told the MC. The MC turned on his mike and introduced Levy and Gajeel again, a spotlight following them onto the dance floor. The song they had selected for their first dance began to play, and the two swayed gracefully in each other's arms. Lucy was getting emotional watching them. She hoped one day she might find someone to love like that. How they looked into each other's eyes, finding completeness there, was so magical. Gajeel, despite his usual rough appearance, looked dashing in his white tux, as he spun Levy away from him and back into his arms. The couple complimented each other so well. Where Gajeel was rough and intimidating, Levy was sweet and welcoming. They brought out the best in one another, even after seeing each other at their worse. Lucy had been there when they first met, listened to every detail about their first date, and every date that followed. Lucy was there to comfort Levy after she had gotten into a rare fight with Gajeel, wiping away the tears. Lucy listened to Levy talk about the future she wished to have with Gajeel. The dreams she wanted for the both of them. She was even there when Levy realized that all her feelings for Gajeel equaled up to love. Lucy had helped Gajeel pick out the perfect ring for Levy and gushed and cried with Levy after she accepted the proposal. Remembering how the past two years built up to this moment, made the tears she had been holding back start to fall. A tap on her shoulder, spun her around. Gray was standing beside her, offering her a handkerchief. She took it, thanking him as she wiped her eyes. He took it back from her, stuffing it back in his front suit pocket.

"I guess those things do come in handy for events like this." He said.

"I'm just so happy for her," Lucy sighed, watching her best friend dance across the floor with the man she loved. The song finished, the guests clapped, and Gajeel gave a dramatic bow.

"Be jealous of my moves," He roared, causing everyone to laugh. The DJ started into another song, encouraging others to dance. Gajeel took Levy in his arms, for round two. Levy laughing as he spun her some more.

"May I have this dance?" Gray asked Lucy, bowing slightly and offering his hand.

"Of course," She reached for his hand, but someone else grabbed hers instead. She was pulled onto the dance floor, finding herself in the arms of a particular person.

"Natsu!" She exclaimed in surprise.

"You finally said my name." He taunted. Rolling her eyes, Lucy silently chided herself against her slip up.

"Don't get used to it." She replied. "I am supposed to be dancing with Gray."

"But you're not," Natsu pointed out.

"Yeah, because you dragged me out here." She objected.

"I saved you from having to dance with him."

"Are you delusional?" She questioned.

"I believe the appropriate words are-" Natsu spun her away from him, her body twirling as he pulled her back into his arms and eloquently dipping her low to the ground. "Thank you." He finished; his lips tickled against her ear as he spoke.

Natsu straightened them both, continuing to dance in time with the music as he laughed at Lucy's stunned expression. He spun her out again, but found resistance when he tried to pull her back.

"Gray!" Lucy was pulled into her date's arms, ending her dance with Natsu.

"Hey!" Natsu protested as Gray started to dance Lucy away.

"Find your own date hothead." Gray spouted back, as he led Lucy far away from him. "Are you alright?' He asked her after putting enough distance between them and Natsu.

"Yeah I'm fine," She replied, but truthfully she wasn't. She was actually annoyed with herself for how Natsu made her react. Why am I blushing? She asked herself, as she remembered his closeness.

"Lucy?" Gray stared down at her, but she just shook her head to clear her thoughts.

"Yes Gray?"

"Did something happen between you and him? I know you said later, but he keeps staring at you. He looks at you like a kid that has a new shiny toy. It was like this during the ceremony too."

"R-Really?" Lucy stammered. Natsu's been staring at me? Lucy didn't know why that thought suddenly made her heart skip.

"Yeah and I don't like it." Gray huffed. "If you need me to put him in his place, I would be more than happy to. I care about you and don't trust that guy."

"No don't worry about it." She objected, smiling softly. "I won't ever see him again after tonight." She finished quietly.

The two continued to dance together for the next three songs. Lucy told Gray she needed to check on Levy after the third song ended. He nodded saying he'll go grab them something to drink. Lucy found Levy, finishing a dance with Wendy.

"Need a break?" She asked.

"Yes!" Levy looped her arm with Lucy's. "I could really use a bathroom right now." She whispered into Lucy's ear.

"Wendy, I'm going with Lucy for a bit. We'll dance some more when I get back." She winked.

"Okay sis!" Wendy agreed, skipping to Gajeel and the two began to dance.

Levy and Lucy exited the ballroom using the back entrance. Taking the hallway on their right, they walked down past several rooms. Lucy guided Levy to a door on their left, entering the room.

"I set this room up for your use throughout the night. It's not that far from the ballroom so in case you needed a restroom or a breather you can get to it quickly." Lucy explained.

"Lu you always think of everything." Levy hugged her friend. "I'm lucky to have you as my best friend."

"I'm the lucky one Levy." Lucy hugged Levy back.

Lucy helped Levy into the restroom, holding her dress while she did her business. Circling her friend, Lucy made sure nothing was out of place before exiting the bathroom.

"Are you alright? Is there anything you need before we go back to the ballroom? A breather?" Lucy asked, eyeing her friend. Levy laughed and shook her head.

"Actually," She gasped. "I do want hear about this love triangle you're caught in between Natsu and Gray. You didn't tell me anything about that!" Levy pouted giving her friend a pointed glare. Waving her hands frantically, Lucy denied anything was happening between her and Gray, especially between her and Natsu.

"You know Gray and I are just friends Levy. He's like the male equivalent of you," She explained.

"And Natsu? You can't tell me there's nothing going on between you two. I've known him for a while and he has expressed zero entrance in every girl his family has tried to set him up with. And tonight, he can't keep his eyes off of you. I had to pinch myself several times when you two were dancing earlier. Gajeel was even shocked. I mean, we all thought he was gay!" Lev threw her hands up in the air expressing how sure she was that Natsu preferred men and the shock that the opposite was true.

"I mean, we told him it didn't matter to us if he was in case he was afraid to come out. I mean his dads are gay, so you would think he would feel comfortable. His family even set him up on a blind date with a man to show their approval. After that he insisted he wasn't gay, but his parents still weren't sure. We were even taking bets on when he would finally come out."

"Seriously? It seems like you're really close with his family to know all this." Lucy noticed.

"Is this jealously already?" Levy joked.

"N-No," Lucy denied. "I just never heard you mention him before. And I never saw him at any of your parties."

"Well it's not like you come to all our parties Lu. And I only really all know this because of Gajeel. His family and Natsu's family are really close. His family would always be there when we went to see Gajeel's family during holidays. Natsu was there a few times, but he's mostly working. Plus, he doesn't live around here." Levy clarified. "He lives in London."

"Oh, I guess that explains that." She replied. Looking at her watch, Lucy gasped. "Oh we got to get back. It's almost time to cut the cake!"

Lucy led Levy back to the ballroom where guests were still dancing and enjoying themselves. Gajeel was sitting at their table, with Natsu and Wendy and two others. It took Lucy a minute to remember they were Wendy's and Gajeel's parents, Metalicana and Grandeeney Redfox. They all seemed to be laughing and having a good time. A flash of a memory came to Lucy's mind, but she brushed it away. Those memories were best forgotten.

"I better go say hi. It's been so hectic I've barely spoken to my new in-laws." Levy remarked as she moved in their direction.

"Yeah that's best. I'll tell the MC to call you and Gajeel in 10 minutes for cake, okay?" Lucy suggested.

"Rodger that!" Levy called over her shoulder as she walked away.

Making her way to the DJ's booth, the MC was conversing with the DJ about some song suggestions to keep the party going. He saw Lucy and wiggled the mike in his hand.

"Time for cake, right?" He inquired.

"We need to push it back by 10 minutes. The bride and groom need a minute." She declared.

"Okay no problem; just say the word and I'll do my thing." The MC made an exaggerated motion with the mike, emphasizing his readiness.

"W-Will do," She replied, stepping away from the MC, and bumping into someone. "S-Sorry!"

"Relax, it's just me Lucy," Gray reassured. "Here, I got you a drink."

"Ah thanks Gray!" Lucy took the drink he offered her, sipping on the cold alcohol. "That's just what I needed. So what have you been doing since I've been gone?"

"Being cornered by everyone woman here," He exasperated. "Everyone seems to believe I'm some ultra-rich, shy, emotional bachelor secretly looking for the girl of my dreams among the guests here."

"Wow that's pretty funny," Lucy admitted laughing.

"Uh no," Gray grimaced. "Apparently, my only turn-off is blondes. So all the blondes are coming up to me saying they'll dye their hair whatever color I preferred. This is getting insane."

"That's strangely specific…" Lucy mumbled, thinking of a particular someone who might have caused these rumors. She sighed, aggravated again. Looking over to where she knew he would be, her eyes met Natsu's across the room. He had been watching her and when their eyes met, he gave her that annoying smirk of his. She looked away quickly, pretending she didn't see anything. Even though she couldn't see him, she knew that he was still staring at her, smirking.

"I can announce the cake now Lucy?" the MC asked behind her. She checked her watch and sure enough the 10 minutes were up.

"Yeah go ahead." She confirmed.

"Ladies and gentlemen," The MC began as the music dimmed out. "It is now time for the bride and groom to cut the cake! Please make space for our lovely couple on the dance floor." He said, his words echoing around the room. Gajeel took Levy's hand and led her to the dance floor. The front doors of the ballroom opened, and two waiters wheeled in a 4 tiered wedding cake, with mini-figurines of Gajeel and Levy on top. Everyone clapped as it was wheeled in front of the couple. One of the waiters handed Gajeel a knife. He grabbed Levy's waist, guiding her in front of him as the pair held the knife together, cutting into the bottom tier of the cake. As they fed pieces of cake to one another, Lucy thought Gajeel might smash the piece in Levy's face. Yet, he simply popped it into her mouth as Levy reached up and did the same to him. The second waiter, gave each of them a glass flute filled with champagne. Typically, the bride and groom were supposed to intertwine their arms and drink the champagne, but the height difference between Gajeel and Levy was making it awkward. Gajeel swept Levy up, holding her with one arm completing the task.

"Ah isn't that great ladies! Gajeel helping his bride in a manly way." The MC commented watching the event. The guests simply applauded shouting and hooting in response. The waiters took over cutting the rest of the cake, distributing pieces to the guests. More waiters spilled into the ballroom, carrying trays of flute glasses, filled with bubbly champagne.

"Now it's time to hear a few words from those closest to this lovely couple. Will the maid-of-honor please come to the mike for her speech?" The MC called for Lucy.

"Be right back," She told Gray, walking back to the MC. He gave her the mike and smiled encouragingly. Lucy had tried to prepare a speech, but decided it would be best to let the emotion of the evening inspire her words.

"Levy. You are the first true girl friend I've ever had. When we first met, I was distant and didn't really know how to be a friend. Yet, you taught me what true friendship is. You've encouraged me, cried with me, laughed with me-no matter the circumstances you were by my side. We share so many memories; it would be unfair to put the guests through a long list of our inside jokes, so I'll spare everyone here." The crowd laughed and Lucy continued. "Levy you are so special to me, I would do anything for you. I always thought that in order for someone to be worthy enough of your love and my approval, he would need to be as special as you are. However, I've come to realize –thanks to Gajeel-that such a guy doesn't exist."

"Hey bunny girl, what you tryin' to say? I'm not good enough for Levy?" Gajeel interrupted, obviously annoyed.

"No. Let me finish," She assured him. "I realized there is no one who could be as special as Levy. In order to be worthy of Levy's love and my approval, Levy needed to be as special to that person as she is to me. Wait, no she needed to be more special in his eyes. And Gajeel, I know without a doubt that that is the case with you."

"Oh! Well, thanks bun-Lucy." Gajeel nodded his thanks.

"Levy I know Gajeel is the one for you, the one who sees you as his most special person, the one person on this planet that can surpass me in caring about you. The love between the two of you is evident. I'm beyond happy for you, and only wish for your continued happiness together. Thank you Gajeel for always being the man I hoped would find Levy. You cherish her and love her and protect her smile always. For that, you'll always have my respect, my approval, and my love. I love you Lev'. " She raised her drink high towards them, a few tears spilling from her eyes. "To the bride and to the groom, to their happiness, to their love, and to their future" She finished. The guests cheered and raised their glasses, drinking for Levy's and Gajeel's happiness.

Lucy turned to hand the MC the mike again, but Natsu was there taking it from her instead. He quickly draped one arm over her shoulder, trapping her next to him.

"N-Natsu," she stuttered shocked at his closeness.

"How am I supposed to follow a display of emotion like that?" Natsu asked. "Levy you really are making things difficult for me."

"Make it quick, Natsu, I doubt anyone wants to listen to what you have to say anyway," Gajeel laughed, but Levy elbowed him in his side. Undeterred, Natsu continued on with his speech.

"For all of you who don't know, Gajeel and I have known each other since we were kids. Our parents go way back, and though mine aren't here at the moment they send their love for you two. They got held up in Russia. Anyway, I'm not one for grand speeches. I don't have a way with words like blondie over here," He looked down at Lucy, who was stiff by his side. She wanted to break away, but his hold on her was slight but firm. Enduring this closeness was akin to torture for Lucy. She felt his arm draped around her, the muscles underneath his clothes pressed against her side, the cologne he was wearing was making her dizzy with delight. Too close. Too close. She kept muttering to herself. Stop smelling him. You're being weird. There is nothing you like about this. Nothing. She repeated to herself, yet she leaned in a little closer.

"I express myself better with actions anyway. I thought giving you two something would help show you how happy I am Gajeel managed to find someone who would willingly put up with him."

Before Gajeel could say anything, the spotlight lit up on an area in the back of the backroom. A waiter rolled a red draped cart to the dance floor, the spotlight following his progress, situating it in front of Gajeel and Levy. With a dramatic flourish of his hand, the waiter removed the draping and the room made a collected gasp.

"Y-You-"Lucy was at a loss for words. She couldn't believe what she was seeing. Natsu just looked down at her and gave her a wink, that stupid smirk on his face.

"Levy. Gajeel goes on and on how much you love languages and books. And Gajeel has always had a weird obsession with metal. Well I present to you the Iron Maidens."

Lucy looked at Levy. Her best friend was crying heavily. They had already opened the lid and she was touching one of the books tenderly. She had known that was how her friend would react. She had known that the gift was perfect for her, for them. It catered to both their interests, so different but merged perfectly together. The precious handcrafted books, the mastery of the iron designs, the mystery, the permanence, the dedication, the love all wrapped up together. That was what the Iron Maidens were. That was what Levy and Gajeel were. It was perfect. Undeniably, the perfect gift.

"I know you already know what they are, and their significance without me explaining them. So mix blondie's words and my gift, and bam! A fired up speech and presentation. Now cheers!" The room exploded into applause, Gajeel and Levy crossed the dance floor to Natsu and Lucy. Levy threw her arms around Lucy, Natsu finally letting her go, hugging and crying, thanking her for her kinds words and for everything else she had done tonight. Gajeel slapped Natsu on the back, grinning down at him. Gajeel then turned to Lucy, and they nodded again at one another, their unspoken words of respect held in their gaze. Levy unhooked herself from Lucy and hugged Natsu quickly, thanking him for his gift.

"I knew you were a treasure hunter, but this is just so unreal." Levy breathed, still caught in the excitement. "The Iron Maidens are one of the rarest books in the world."

"And now they're yours." Natsu grinned.

"Treasure hunter?" Lucy asked, staring at Natsu.

"Yeah, that's why he's never around. He goes around hunting treasure for people." Gajeel explained.

"I keep the rarest treasures for myself though." Natsu smirked and looked at Lucy.

The music picked back up and people started dancing again. Levy went back to the Iron Maidens, wanting to pour over the pages that second. Gajeel grumbled that Natsu should have given those to her after the wedding. He didn't respond but just laughed instead as Gajeel went to his bride.

"Oi, Blondie." Natsu said after Gajeel had walked away. "We still need to finish our dance."

"That wasn't dancing." She objected.

"Oh?" He closed the distance between them "What would you call it then?"

"Kidnapping." She proclaimed.

He stepped closer to Lucy, his hands in his pockets, leaning towards her. "If I took you, you would never call it kidnapping. I promise you would definitely come willingly." His eyes stared into hers, her heart skipped again. Too close. So close. She could see herself reflected in his onyx eyes. Her cheeks were flushed, her eyes were wide, her lips slightly parted. Despite herself, she felt she was leaning towards him. Why did he have to smell so good? She moaned inside.

"Lucy dance with me!" Wendy's voice snapped Lucy back to attention. She stepped away from Natsu, her breathing a little labored.

"W-Wendy." She managed, after realizing that the child was standing before her. "Okay." She let herself be led back onto the dance floor, trying to resist the urge to not look back. Yet, she peaked over her shoulder, Natsu smirking as he watched her go.

The night passed with more dancing. Wendy and Lucy danced for two songs, Gray found her again and took the third before he was swept away by a woman Lucy had never seen before. Levy and Lucy danced next, giggling and laughing as they jumped to the music. It was a great party as those gathered danced well into the night. Yet, Lucy still found herself catching the gaze of a particular pink haired man with those piercing onyx eyes.

"It's that time where the bride and groom will now make their departure. Before they go, we asked that all available ladies come to the dance floor! It's time for the bouquet toss." The MC yelled loudly into his mike. Soon the dance floor was filled with bustling single women, trying to catch the coveted prize of the night; the hope to be the next one wed. Lucy tried to remove herself from the crowd. Marriage was not in her future at the moment. Nor did she ever expect it to be. The woman were shoving and jostling one another that it made it difficult to move. Sighing, she gave up and tried to just move with the flow of silk clad women.

"Alright here I go!" Levy yelled as she turned her back to the gathered women. She leaned her body forward, and tossed it behind her with all her might.

The women sprang into action, pushing and shoving, trying to catch the bouquet. Lucy just focused on surviving. To her right, she noticed a particularly large woman was throwing herself in the path of the flowers, launching her body towards Lucy. There was no way to dodge her, since she was pressed against the others. She closed her eyes, waiting for the pain of the collision. Instead, she felt herself be pushed out of the way roughly from behind. Lucy was thrown out of the chaos of silk, estrogen, and desperation and into strong arms.

"Caught yah," A familiar voice proclaimed.

"Natsu." Lucy whispered staring up at him. She was vaguely aware of a woman breaking from the riot she had escaped, her dress slightly torn but a look of triumph on her face as she held the bouquet. The rest of the events blurred together. Gajeel scooping Levy up and exiting the ballroom, the guests following after them. Gray emerging from the back of the crowd, claiming her arm as he led her away. Looking back at him, with his spiky pink hair, his stupid smirk, his hands stuffed into his pockets, watching her as she watched him. This would be the last time they would see each other. She had sworn that she would never see him again. This wedding was a weird exception. Hadn't she wanted this? Hadn't she wanted to put distance and time away from them? She watched him until she could see him no more. He would go off back to London. Then who knows where, hunting treasure around the world. She would go back to running her business in New York. The same routine as always. The same routine that lacked pink hair and smirks.

Caught yah? His voice echoed in her mind.

"You promise?" She whispered, so quietly that no one would hear. Natsu had sworn he always kept his promises and so had she. But now, Lucy wanted to break hers.