A/N: First thing you need to know is that events of this chapter are on same day as previous chapter. That being said, let's start with long rant!

I honestly hate myself having 3 stories open at the same time to write but on other hand I prefer to have juggle between them. Gives me more ideas for each story while I focus on another. This chapter was significantly heavy on me, not because I had hard time thinking what to write, no it was heavy because I honestly placed myself in Lucy's place trying to feel her pressure and my stomach turned. I am still not going to tell you why she feels like that or what is her drive, I guess you'll have to stick with me 'till the end. As always, let me know what you think about the chapter, I accept both good and bad critics equally. Thank you everyone in advance.

Lucy slowly opened her eyes and looked at the alarm. Five more minutes until it starts ringing but it was never given that chance. Lately she has been waking up before the alarm and would watch the clock hand slowly move. How much she dreaded that moment, the prelude to hell and just before it would start ringing she would press the button and turn it off. There was this feeling, not more than a clench in her stomach but she knew… Lucy knew today would be one of those bad days. Her headache was acting up again as soon as she sat up but she had to endure. Morning shower did almost little to ease up this almost unnatural stress she felt in her chest.

"Keep it together Lucy, you know why you are doing this… you have no room to crack now…" she encouraged herself but it was more of acknowledgement of situation rather than motivation to go forward. Her hands moved through her wet hair. Just five more minutes she thought… those five minutes meant the world for her before the hell of another day would start. Lately she wished it would last for a little longer... just five more minutes.

She left the shower and dried her hair. The relief was almost insignificant but it gave her a kick start. Once she left her bedroom, all dressed up and ready for another day at the university, she heard noise coming from downstairs. It was no mystery as to what caused and it was one of the few things that made her smile when she needed most.

"Oh, good morning Elizabeth" Lucy greeted as she walked down.

"Good morning dear" elderly woman smiled up at her "How are you feeling today?"

Lucy sighed slightly, swallowing rock inside her throat "I am fine but, regarding this month's pay… is there anyway I can delay it for a week?" she was visibly nervous, looking away in guilt "I found new job but it's not gonna-"

"Dear, I told you not to worry about it" she smiled warmly, embracing Lucy who rushed over and hugged her.

"Thank you… you have no idea how much your help means to me"

"You just focus on your school, I'll take care of the rest"

Lucy pulled herself away, her cheeks were still blushing from her guilt but at least she felt a small bit of relief "I'll be back late today." Lucy said and quickly rushed out, trying to grab every extra minute possible.

"Wait, your breakfast…" woman sighed as she watched Lucy rush out "She left without it again, poor child… I do not envy you."

The first stroke of luck was that there was little traffic this morning and sidewalks were mostly empty. At very least she will be there early and avoid any kind of unwanted encountered. As soon as she entered her classroom she sat down at one of the front seats. Made it in time… ok calm down now, deep breath she inhaled deeply, holding it for few seconds before exhaling. Lucy repeated this process few times and Professor Justine walked inside. Ok I already finished all assignments, project is almost complete… hope Alissa has done her part. I just need few more activities and I'll have that subject out of my list.

The class went as she expected, knowing she did well on 'being active' part. Though it didn't have great impact on final grade, professor Justine valued active students highly and was rather helpful toward them and that meant that she can spent a little less time studying that subject and focus on those that would require more time on other exams. As soon as bell rang, she knew that other part of the problem will come... same guy from yesterday. She took deep breath again and looked around, observing other students Does he have same classes as me? Maybe he forgot about it.

Of course he would pester me. She thought to herself as she walked toward other classroom. Wait, what if Levy saw me and him? Oh God, what if she thinks I like him? Wait, why am I worrying about this? Levy knows my situation. She knows I hate guys like him.

Second class was sociology and it was one of those classes she disliked. Silver lining was the fact that it was easier to get higher grade and with grades came valuable points she needed most right now.

"Hey Lucy" girl's voice reached Lucy and she snapped out of her train of thoughts, looking toward the girl that was standing next to her.

"Hey Alissa" Lucy smiled at her. Alissa was another blonde like her although she dyed her rather than being natural blonde. Fairy Tail attracted those students too... students whose parents could afford the expenses of tuition and passing grades were sufficient to find a decent job without much searching. With enough make up to fit shovel and cleavage that was counter-proportional to the amount of grey cells in her head... she would probably find job within days. It was indeed a travesty of modern society, one that Lucy knew all too well but still refused to fall down to that level. Another cruelty was just how big of a hypocrite she had to be sometimes just so she could pay for all expenses that came with living independently.

"I know I promised but I totally forgot about our project." she had her low squealing voice, one that only she believed it had effect "I have to visit my grandparents this weekend, can you help me out a bit and do my part? I would help out but my grandma is sick."

"Oh, sure" Lucy nodded "Hope she gets better soon"

"Thanks a ton, you're the best!"

Of course I am… She doesn't even have the decency to tell the truth. Sick grandma, yeah right and that same grandma is going to turn up on Facebook half-drunk and without a shirt.

Lucy sighed, leaning her face down into her hands, rubbing it. Same story every time. Everyone wants to pick Lucy for their partner just so she can do everything and have both names signed at the end of it. She would have rejected her but at this point but considering that Alissa's tongue is longer than her leg, it is more likely that she would spread some false gossip about Lucy and only thing that would bother her is that she wouldn't have anyone to be partner with on projects and if she doesn't have anyone, there are no points which means it is harder to get higher grade. Endure Lucy… just endure a little bit more was all she could tell herself.

Sociology was almost excruciating. Though professor was clear with definitions and examples, Lucy still had difficulty fully comprehending them. She constantly wrote down notes and she knew that she would have to re-read them again and again until it sinks in. Problem was just how many times she had to repeat that process and it always costed valuable time. She was just about to exit the classroom but almost bumped into a silver-haired woman.

"Excuse me." Lucy apologized for almost ramming into her but she didn't seem to mind.

"You are Lucy, correct?" Mira asked and Lucy nodded, now a little worried. She doesn't look like student. Black blazer, miniskirt and high-heeled shoes were all the clues Lucy needed to deduce that it is one of University's staff "Please come with me." She said with smile and without any objections, Lucy followed her toward the offices. Once they arrived at the office of rector, Mira knocked twice and opened the door.

"Rector is waiting for you"

"Thank you" Lucy said and entered. The room was large, walls decorated with various diplomas, pictures of most successful students and even few of rector's own accomplishments throughout his life, both as student and professor. At the desk were two people, one behind was a short elderly man in dark purple suit whose smile was warm while other she recognized as professor Justine. She approached and bowed toward both of them and they returned the courtesy.

"You wanted to see me, rector Makarov?"

"Yes, please sit child." He pointed politely toward the chair beside Freed who had his leg crossed, leaning against the chair "We need to discuss about your scholarship."

"Is there a problem?" she asked, now worried to point it was easy to see

"I am afraid your current achievements are no longer sufficient for you to maintain the status." Makarov let out a soft hum as he went over papers, occasionally looking at her. Her face went pale as she clenched her hands together, feeling blood leave both her hands and her feet. Every time she would exhale air from her lungs it would catch in her throat, giving her the slight feeling of being choked.

"N…n…no longer s…sufficient?" Lucy stuttered.

"Indeed" he nodded and spoke in low tone.

"But sir I cannot afford to pay for the tuition." she stuttered, her voice was shaking "I have-"

"I am aware of your situation my dear…" he interrupted her, placing glasses on as he continued reading "If it was for anyone else we would have canceled the status… it is not fair to give anyone privileged status over others."

Thunder struck her very center of body, her heart stopped beating for a second as cold sweat slowly formed on her forehead. The thought of having to pay high tuition was as heavy as earth itself… Lucy knew well that cannot afford it and would most likely have to quit studies.

"That being said…" Makarov started again "We also understand the effort you put into your studies. Which is why Professor Justine is here to consult me about your… shall we say case?"

"Miss Heartfilia's attendance is flawless and as you have put well, she is progressing well in her studies. I had time inspect her record so far and I would like to say she has a lot of promise… save for the circumstance."

"Mmm yes" Makarov moved finger through his moustaches "It is hard to debate when one of my best professor puts such high praise for you. The margin is indeed small, your grades are high however scholarship requires sufficient amount of points. Right now, we are trying to find a way to help a child that is one of us and even if you receive highest grades on all remaining exams, you will still be few points short."

Throughout explanation, though vaguely aware of what Makarov was saying, Lucy felt as if her entire world was shattering. The plan she had from the start has began tearing itself and she was few minutes away from passing out.

"Have you picked extracurricular activity?" Makarov asked as he looked at her.

"N… no, sir…" she swallowed hard again, this time both professors could hear the soft sound of it.

"Why don't you join my drama club?" Freed turned his head toward her and then toward Makarov "If she performs well, she could receive extra 5 points. Would that be sufficient?"

"It would" Makarov nodded "Barely but it would be enough to maintain her scholarship."

"Then it is settled" Freed smiled softly toward her, making her look at him, wide eyed and completely baffled "Drama club on Wednesday and Friday. Your record shows that you have shown affinity toward literature so you will be able to adjust without any problems."

Her face suddenly lit up, she had no idea how could she fit in everything but if she could avoid paying tuition she would do all she was asked and ten times over. She suddenly stood up and bowed low toward both of them.

"Thank you very much rector, Professor" she smiled again feeling the surge of relief wash over her.

"We are doing all we can to look after our children." Makarov smiled warmly at her and Freed nodded in agreement. She bowed again and left his office.

"She is strong. Most wouldn't endure." Freed remarked

"You've read her record?"

"Indeed. Full studies, picked maximum amount of classes, extra classes and her friends say she is also working. Several jobs in fact."

"Hmmmm… Isn't she daughter of Jude Heartfilia? I am surprised she needs scholarship." Freed moved strand of hair from his face looking away from Makarov

"It's complicated."

Lucy was almost skipping as she walked back. The day started with a bad feeling but this changed every negative thought she had since this morning. She would need to work extra hard now, even more considering that time she usually spent studying would now be spent being at drama club. Like it or not, she had no choice. All she needed to do is to gather strength and push forward, but right now, she was just in time to attend next lecture. Physics is next and this was a class she had most troubles with. Natural sciences were never her strong side and she calculated that she only needed passing grade from Professor Clive to keep scholarship.

She sat at the middle of amphitheater, taking out textbook and pen and before long man in light brown hair, neatly combed and oiled wearing dark brown suit entered.

"Good afternoon class" Gildarts spoke as he looked toward students. He took chalk and immediately started creating graph on the board.

Lucy frowned slightly, she barely understood this but before she could actually begin to ponder about this "alien contraption" she felt a blow of air on her left ear.

"Hey Luce" Natsu whispered silently.

"You!" she whispered back turning head "What are you doing here?"

"What do you mean? This is my class too." he chuckled "I didn't know you have interest in physics"

"Leave me alone!" she whispered again, clenching her teeth.

"You know if I pass this class I can calculate how your boobs are holding up so perfectly." He teased her, taking bit of her hair to play with.

"What?!" she turned her head, moving her hair with hand away from his grasp.

"They completely defy gravity." he leaned forward again, this time trying to peek over her shoulder but she moved it in a way for him to not see down her shirt

"Please leave me alone."

"I will if you go out with me."

"No!" she said in tone that was no longer whisper and even made few heads around them turn.

"Excuse me!" Loud voice interrupted them and they both looked toward source of it "I suppose you know which are four fundamental forces of nature, mister Dragneel?"

"Ummm… wind, earthquake, tidal waves and… volcano?" Natsu said with complete blank face making entire class laugh while Lucy covered her face in complete embarrassment.

"That is by far the stupidest thing I have heard." Gildarts waved his head "Perhaps miss Heartfilia can correct you?" she looked up as she heard her name

"U..umm…" she took deep breath to calm herself "S…strong, electromagnetic, weak and gravity."

"That is correct" professor now looked toward Natsu "You might learn something if you listen to her mister Dragneel. No more talking during my class, understood?"

Lucy sighed in relief. That was too close. It is bad enough she barely understands physics but now this idiot is going to make it even harder. Great, just great.

"So, is it gravity?" he whispered again.

"What?"

"Is it gravity that keeps your boobs up?"

"No you idiot, gravity is force that pulls you down, not up!" she turned head again, noticing that he still has the same smug grin Wait, why am I correcting him?

"Oh so they have gravity... huh..."

"What gravity?" she checked to see if professor Clive is looking their way and once she ensured he is turned toward the board she turned head back at Natsu

"Well they are so big, my eyes are constantly pulled toward them"

"Can you do me a favor?" she grinned at him.

"Anything for you sweetie."

"Please go somewhere and die." And with that she turned her head again, looking forward. Natsu was left pouting at her decision to ignore him until the end of class despite his constant poking with finger on her back and sides. This day is going to be hell after all she thought.

Bell rang and she immediately rushed out of the classroom, trying to find a single moment away from him however that had no effect as he quickly caught up to her. Why is this happening to me question swirled inside her head.

"So what are you doing this weekend?" Natsu asked.

"Not talking to you."

"You just said something to me so you are talking to me."

"No, I mean I will be doing that on weekend. Not. Talking. To. You. Now leave me alone."

"Oh come on, just go out with me once. You might like it."

"I'll pass." She shot back at him in rather annoyed tone

"Why are so cold toward me?" Natsu chuckled, trying to take her bag in order to carry but her firm grip prevented him from doing that.

"You want to know why?" she suddenly stopped, turning toward him "Don't take this the wrong way but… you are an asshole."

"How do you know I am one? Maybe I'm nicest guy in school." Natsu leaned toward her but as he was leaning she took a step back, once again creating the distance between them.

"How do I know?" Lucy asked, pushing edge of book against his chest "You are Natsu Dragneel, you play for University's football team as quarterback, there has never been one full week when you haven't had a girl under your arm. You are arrogant, narcissistic, you don't care about other people's feelings and I am not going to allow myself to fall so low and become your weekend girl!" she frowned at him. He was left speechless for few seconds but finally she snapped and grinned.

"You keep track of me? That's so sweet." he made the 'sweet-face' and pursed his lips "That sounds almost like being a fan-girl... How about you give me one chance and I'll prove to you that I am not all that you just said about me."

"Natsu, understand this..." she spoke through her clenched teeth "It is never going to happen!"

"Well that just makes me want to have you even more." Natsu licked his lips as he watched her go away, she didn't hear this last thing or saw that he mouthed 'Wow' as he eyed her behind.

Classes passed, one bell after another and finally came the much expected practice. Natsu placed his jersey on and helmet, rushing out to the field along with rest of the players. Elfman was in good mood today and it was shown with him going easy on them which was expressed having only 20 laps for warm up.

"Think someone got some last nigh.t" Natsu nudged Gray and pointed toward smiling coach.

"We're gonna pay for that..." Gray panted a bit as he finished running across the entire field. Indeed he was smiling from ear to ear and one could even hear him say 'Good work'. In his case, it was never a good thing "Any luck with that Lucy chick?"

"Still nothing. I tell you, this girl is gonna be my Everest!" Natsu took few steps back, straightening himself.

"Then you might wanna ask one of her friends" Gray took a deep breath and looked around. Before long they all took formation. Gray and Natsu stood one across another, grinning wide as they once again had the chance to see who is better. Single whistle was heard and lines collided, Natsu started running with the ball. He was fast, nearly impossible to catch and just as it was obvious that he would make full run, Gray managed to appear almost out of nowhere, tackling him to the ground. The impact was hard and Natsu groaned painfully

"Fuck, Gray! Get off me!" he coughed after one more painful groan.

"Then pay attention." Gray gloated as he stood up and took ball from Natsu "See who is hanging out with her and ask her about Lucy. That's your best way of learning about gilr." He offered his hand and Natsu pushed his hand away, standing up on his own.

"Think I saw her with that blue haired girl… what was her name… Livy, Lici, Luck, Liny..."

"No idea, will catch her up tomorrow" Natsu held his side, wincing as he touched one particular place.

"Alright, that's it for today, hit the showers!" Eflman said after he blew the whistle and entire team slowly left the field. Natsu took off his jersey and let the steamy hot water run down on him as they entered showers, Gray on the other hand was content with cold one. Natsu's hand went over to his side, checking the blue mark that appeared.

"Your work" Natsu frowned and pointed, making Gray look at the rather large bruise.

"Oh yeah, looks good on you. Next time I'll go a bit more center and to the south." Gray laughed and started washing his hair.

"Eat a dick, ice-brain."

"So why are you so interested in this Lucy? I thought you liked more accessible girls and she looks like one of the textbook nerds."

"It's not about her being a nerd." Natsu took soap and rubbed over his chest "It's matter of principle… and a bet."

"What bet?" Gray asked, looking over at Natsu.

"I told Loke that before this week ends I'll have sex with her. If I win, I get round at Sabertooth and if I lose I buy the round."

"She already turned you down, twice…"

"By the end of the week I'll have you all acknowledge the true king!"

A/N: I also had fun implementing characters into this story and giving them roles. I found that Freed suits best as English teacher along with drama or poetry extracurricular class, he was no-brainer but finding suitable teacher for physics? Who else is better than man who can deconstruct anything? I had a bit hard time seeing Gildarts in role of professor but damn sure I will try portraying him. I think the most fun I will have bringing Ingeel's character into place I want to experiment how far I can push him into father figure and of course Grandeeney as step-mother figure. There is going to be some family turmoil but if you ever wonder how I envisioned Igneel... well... In my head he looks a lot like Van Hohenheim from Fullmetal alchemist only with red hair and beard and slightly different facial structure and a bit darker skin tone. That is what first came to my mind when I thought about Igneel in human form

Also there is the voice issue. It had to be deep, booming, growly voice, a bit intimidating but has that level of warmth and kindness. I am going to dedicate entire chapter around Igneel at one point but for now, I guess you are more interested about what is this secret that Lucy has... well... the secret is