A/N: This is most likely record time in my pause. My dilemma continues in finding proper motivation to write this particular story, given that my original inspiration has decided to, figuratively speaking, fart in the face of all of my affections. I may have made a mistake in making a connection between fictional character and a real one but... I gave my word and I won't break it. Without me babbling much, please enjoy and as always, let me know what you think.

"It goes other way around…" Natsu mumbled to himself, nervously standing in front of mirror and desperately trying to fix knot on his tie. It was quickly becoming annoying because this was far from first time he had formal suit on and yet he hadn't had this much trouble with simple time since the first time he slipped it around his neck. He was nervous and mere minutes away from violently shaking his neatly combed and oiled hair. Day of wedding finally came and despite his best of efforts, Levy refused to reveal even slightest of hints about dress she and Lucy bought. Lucy was just as adamant in keeping it a secret, though he suspected she was simply too shy to actually reveal it. His mind was already tense enough and now there was a worm crawling inside with whispers of what dress could be, how much it will reveal or conceal… At one point, he even humored idea that dress could be pure white, very much akin to a wedding dress. That thought kept him up all night, entertained by the idea of what could life with Lucy be. There was never a doubt about her beauty or her attributes but now there was another thing that kept bugging him, an old seed of doubt that sprouted. Will he really be able to care for a child of another man?

"Shit…" He cursed, staring into reflection of himself and crooked tie that looked more like a noose than gentleman's choice. Problem was clear… he simply wasn't paying attention to what he was doing, preferring to let his mind wander away. His eyes gazed clock on the wall. Just twenty more minutes before he has to leave. With a long and deep sigh, he untied the knot and began entire ordeal all over again. Truth be told, there are still too many things he needs to learn about Lucy. He knew that and there would have to be years before such big step is to be made. Thinking too far ahead was never his strong point, preferring to think about today… and today is meant to be full of surprises.

"There." He exclaimed, centering the knot where it is supposed to be and reveling in this small victory. No piece of cloth should stand defiant before determined man. Black suit, white shirt, clean shoes and a matching tie. All that was left was a sly smile to complete the image of a wolf hiding in the skin of sheep and that piece of accessory never left Natsu's possession. His hand lightly moved across his suit, straightening any possible wrinkle that could've been formed, lightly caressing the smooth fabric that perfectly hugged his body. "I don't want to toot my horn but I look damn good in this." Comment was on its place and despite the strong hints of narcissism he indeed looked quite dashing in it.

Without any further delay, he made his way outside where taxi was already waiting. Igneel knew quite well Natsu's tendencies to indulge himself with copious amount of alcohol during almost any special occasion and for that purpose he refused to give his son access to family car. Much to his father's confusion, Natsu was not complaining about his father's decision… simple fact is that he was right and last thing he wanted right now was to be the cause for some incident, even more considering that Lucy will be with him. Taxi was second best option.

"Wait here." Natsu said as he left cab that stopped in front of Lucy's house. Once again he took a deep breath, wondering what lies beyond those doors. He has seen her countless times and every time she knew how to surprise him… even now he firmly believed that she will leave him dumbfounded. Lips curved up in a smile at that thought. Yes… he truly has found a girl that surprised him every single time without even trying.

Three knocks were sufficient, sound and firm. Voice from behind assured him of her presence, followed by a curse that made Natsu laugh. No doubt she rushed too fast and managed to collide with a table or a couch. She is not even trying and already his entire world is brightened by her very existence. She is the one… there is no doubt about it.

Doors finally opened and so did Natsu's eyes, far more than he thought was possible. Tight black dress barely reached below her knees, refusing to allow even a single wrinkle or imperfection, looking more like a second skin than fabric. Her shoulders were bare and black satin collar held dress in position, preventing from slipping down and exposing her bosoms that showed their inner side by a long slit that reached down to belly button. Long black gloves of same soft and thin material adorned her hands just above her elbows. Loose blonde hair was tied into neat bun with two silver earrings hanging. Her lips were red, perfectly punctured by a lipstick and shadows around her eyes made her already piercing gaze even more lethal. He was sure that she wore shoes… but what kind, that he never could find out for his eyes refused to look down for even a fraction of a second, fearful that this visage of beauty and elegance may vanish like mirage. The realization hit him like a truck about to hit a deer… Before him stood not a college girl, but a woman.

"Could you please stop staring?" Lucy asked, now feeling slightly nervous herself at Natsu's prolonged pause and almost statue-like gaze. It took him a few more seconds and a slight wave of her hand before his eyes to snap him out of his daydream.

"I don't think I can." He replied, face riddled with shock and awe. He expected Lucy to look beautiful… but this most certainly blew away all of his expectations. With newly collected composure, he offered a small bow "Your carriage awaits."

"I still don't think this is a good idea." Lucy said as she entered cab, followed by Natsu who opened and closed door for her "I don't know any of them and I only met Laxus once."

"There will be Gray and his beloved 'gentler half', whom you already know. Then there's Erza who will talk your ear off and if she so much as drinks half a glass of wine, you're in for a ride of your lifetime. The rest are less important."

"Right…" she commented as car started driving. Once again she felt eyes fall on her, piercing gaze that kept dancing on her. Before, she was nervous but now… now she felt just a tad bit more relaxed "Natsu, you are staring again."

"Can't help but agree with you." He added, grin ever-present on his face "Have you seen yourself? You look astonishing."

"Thank you." She smiled softly, feeling his hand intertwine with hers. Gloves prevented her from feeling his skin but she could feel his warmth radiating through the thin cloth of it. It was calm, comforting, assuring her that things will be alright despite her sudden rush of nervousness. Like a loyal hound, he sensed her slight fidgets and sent another wave of compliments, all of which produced almost instant effect. "No, don't try to kiss me, you'll ruin my make up."

"Do I sense an embargo?"

"It is only until the end of wedding." Lucy replied after a brief moment of thought. Much like Natsu, she too felt unusual shift in her own personality and it surprised her. Just few months ago, she believed that there would never be someone beside whom she'll feel comfortable, who may lower her guard enough and expose all her vulnerabilities. Her fingers squeezed his hand gently, lovingly.

"Keep the rest." Natsu's hand reached driver who thanked him for considerable tip. He was first to leave cab and like a true gentlemen in disguise, opened door for Lucy. Location was brimming with people, arches adorned with decorations. Lucy's eyes widened for a moment. Courtyard was vast, most likely rented for this special occasion in order to accommodate entirety of guest-list. Mumbling of people was periodically broken by a loud shout or laugh. Men wore either black or gray suits while women had a tad bit more liberty in their attire choices but not a single one were anything less than formal. Tables with food and drinks were being invaded by people who stopped by to gorge on small delicacies while number of people circulated around with trays that carried either champagne or wine. Lucy's hand clenched Natsu's arm as they walked among the crowd, moving from one group to another in order for Natsu to greet them. For a moment, she thought that Natsu knew all of them.

"To be honest, I have no idea who that was." He commented as they moved along, reluctant to let Lucy's hand go even for briefest of moments. Quite a number of people were very descriptive in complimenting Lucy and though it did made her blush, she did see Natsu's jaw clench a few times. With all the laughter and banter, it was almost impossible to resist the mood and she let out a soft sigh of relief. There were no eyes that judged her, no whispers or gossips… people looked at her as they would any other woman – with pleasant tone and subtle compliments that made her partner's eye twitch. She didn't want to admit but she enjoyed those little jealous gestures on Natsu's face.

"Where is Laxus though?" She asked Natsu who was leaned closer to hear her words "I haven't seen him."

"Laxus? Just listen, if you hear someone crying, he's there."

"Why would he cry?"

"Oh no no, not Laxus." Natsu waved his head "It's his gramps. Look over there." He pointed toward one of the well-trimmed hedges. Beside it was a chair on which Makarov was sitting, surrounded by men and women who looked roughly around his age. Even though he lacked in height, Makarov compensated this in his bigger than life personality, furiously proclaiming that no one in this world has grandson like he does. Man was hitting his chest with fist, tears flowing down on his cheeks as he spoke about Laxus. He had more pride in that small body of his than all of these people combined. Laxus was standing beside in clean white suit, surrounded by a younger group of people who laughed at old man's words.

"See? I told you." Natsu winked "There's Gray and Juvia, come."

Pair stood near the row of chairs. More were brought by workers of agency to accommodate guests. Juvia was far too busy talking to Erza while Gray's hands instinctively reached and touched his tie. He was already itching to get himself out of the suit but was constantly scolded by his 'beloved'. Sound of orchestra was now more apparent as they tuned violins and practiced for the main event.

"I almost thought you wouldn't make it." Gray commented as he saw Natsu approach, lifting eyebrow as he looked at Lucy. Though reluctant to comment on her appearance, his silent gestures were more than enough of a compliment.

"And miss the moment big man changes his mind and runs away?" Natsu laughed "Not in this lifetime."

"Oh please, he is not a juvenile brat like you two." Erza interjected with scolding tone "He planned it for months now."

"Besides, he can't run anywhere. Not while his balls are in jar."

"You should know that better than anyone." Natsu's comment almost made Gray choke on champagne "Where are they now? In Juvia's purse?"

"No but I might give yours to- aack!" Gray groaned painfully as Juvia's fingers pulled his ear. She would've slapped him on back of his head but this way there was less of a chance to ruin his well-combed hair. Natsu rewarded this moment with hearty laugh, though his joy was just as short-lived as he felt Lucy's elbow hitting his ribs.

"Come. Let's leave children alone." Lucy felt her arm pulled by Juvia, dragging her away from men. Erza followed, though not before she sent another cold glare in their direction, making them both feel ice forming along their spine.

"What got you down?" Natsu asked as he looked toward Gray who let out a sigh "Still haven't patched things up with Juvia?"

"No, we patched things up… It's her constant comments about being 'next' that bug me. Don't look at me like I don't plan to break up with her, I just prefer to have things move along my pace… but apparently my pace is a bit too slow for her."

"So why don't you tell her?"

"You know her, Natsu. She'll take it the wrong way and start making up things how I found another girl or how I don't love her… Hell, newest one is that I am cheating on her with Erza."

"Does Erza know about that?" Natsu chuckled, rubbing sore spot under his arm. Lucy managed to hit nerve perfectly.

"It's ridiculous. They kept talking about catching flowers… I think they just might gnaw each other's throats for it. Honestly I pray Juvia doesn't catch it, otherwise I won't hear the end of it. I mean… we still got college to finish, careers to start and then we can think about marriage. Look at Laxus. He has his own business, his soon-to-be wife works at Fairy Tail, they will have financial stability even if Mira quits. I'm babbling… More importantly, how are things between you and Lucy?"

"Great." Natsu commented proudly, picking up glass from tray "For once, I think that I am in a good spot. Unlike you, though, I don't have to worry about pace. Mine is nice and slow."

"Color me impressed." Gray added and took another small sip. His eyes wandered away from Natsu, looking over his friend's shoulder. Grin slowly subsided and small frown formed, something that Natsu couldn't miss.

"What?" Pinkette asked "What's with the sour face?"

"Head's up." Gray's tone deepened and he nodded. Natsu's gaze followed as he turned around to see. His eyes widened and jaw clenched once more, calm appearance quickly disappeared.

"Why is she here?" Natsu asked in almost whispering tone. His hand trembled and shook, almost dropping delicate and intricately decorated glass that still contained light-golden beverage.

"What do you mean why?" Gray asked, looking between him and person in question "She is her sister, no way she'd miss this. Wow… how long has it been? She's all grown up."

Natsu's quickly turned, facing Gray fully. His nervousness was all too apparent and adrenaline was pouring out of his pores. For every second he stood there it felt like hours. Gray didn't turn. He kept looking at woman that stood by Laxus, invested in light conversation that they had. Long pink-colored dress almost reached to the ground with matching shoes, adorned with various white motifs in shape of flowers and small stars. Soft-silver hair didn't cover her neck. When Gray finally peeled his eyes away from mystery woman, he looked at Natsu. Pained expression adorned his face, fingers threatened to crush glass… but that wasn't anger that he saw. No. He saw something much worse.

"Natsu?" Suddenly voice reached pinkette, just behind his back. His eyes shot up straight, petrified as he heard his name being called and he slowly turned. Young woman looked at him with bright eyes and soft smile "Oh my, it is you!"

"Hey Lis…" he repied with shaky voice as he was embraced. Her arms hasitly wrapped around his neck and he in turn, replied with light squeeze around her waist. Soft scent of apples and lilies began invading his nose and he felt his heart pound in his chest.

"Wow, look at you!" She said as she slowly released him, though hands still were pressed against his shoulders "Didn't think you'd outgrow me by this much."

"Yea well… bit of hormones, bit of your brother's rigorous training." Nervous words followed one after another like badly memorized poem "It was either that or be turned into dwarf… um… When did you arrive?"

"Just over a week ago." Lisanna smiled "Had to help Mira with preparations. I tried to call you but it kept saying your number is out of service."

"That? Oh…" Natsu chuckled forcefully "I kind of lost that one few years ago but I got new number. Wanna write it?"

"Sure. Hold on a moment… I'm coming! Sorry, it's about to start, how about we talk after the ceremony? Oh and nice to see you Gray!"

"Yeah, sure." He muttered, barely audible as she left. Though she left his presence, the heavy boulder that pressed his shoulders did not follow. Gray was far more composed than his friend, even managing to respond fairly quickly and with much more ease.

"I know that look." Gray said as he stood right next to Natsu, fingers wrapped around his tie, tempted to pull it off his neck and toss it away.

"I wasn't doing anything." Natsu quickly defended.

"Didn't say you were, I'm saying that I've seen you with that expression before. How long since you two broke up?"

"Um… I don't know, maybe four or five years. Not even sure myself anymore when it all started to fall apart."

"You gonna talk to her?" Gray bumped his shoulder against Natsu's and nodded toward a group roughly ten meters away where Juvia and Lucy were standing. Erza was nowhere to be found but that was at the very bottom on list of problems. Right now, he had inner debate with himself and he was losing.

"Yeah, I guess… Look I know what you are thinking and no I don't plan to do anything. Took me a hell of a long time to get to this point with Lucy and I don't plan to screw things up. I'll just… ask her some questions and… get a closure. Nothing more."

"Alright." Gray replied with a nod "Well people are already taking seats. We should get going while there are still chairs to claim."

Natsu offered no reply; instead he once again looked at Lisanna. Closure, yes, that's what he needed, a final page of a story that ended bitterly years ago. Still, his skin remembered every bit it, of her. It started to itch. Was she pretending to be fine or did she simply forget? Were distance and time enough to mend her heart enough to forego all the bad memories that were made in final weeks before inevitable end? Perhaps, just perhaps, she had some help… perhaps someone else's touch soothed her pain and restored smile upon her face. Distant memories flooded his mind; stomach twisted itself into a knot. Was it her presence that bothered him so much? No… it was something else.

"Natsu?" Familiar voice broke his chain of bitter thoughts. Visage of beautiful brown eyes dispelled all unnecessary whispers that wreaked havoc in his mind "What got you lost in your thoughts?"

"Nothing." He said, smiling wide as he gazed at her, offering his arm once again as any gentleman would. "Shall we?"

Mumbling and chatter died out completely as guests took places. Chairs were quickly filled and all waited patiently for bride to arrive. At the center, priest stood with holy script in hand, by him was Laxus who looked like he was on the verge of sweating from sheer nervousness. No matter how big or small, Lucy knew that all men eventually feel jitters when big day comes. Groomsmen and bridesmaids stood by, ready to do their parts. Violins let out a soft cry before starting to sing their beautiful song. All heads turned as music started playing, gazing upon bride that approached with slow, steady steps, dressed in pure white dress. Soft voices of awe were heard; silent whispers appeared and then just as quickly disappeared. Even Lucy couldn't help but let out a gentle gasp as she gazed at the bride. Her very presence enchanted the crowd, forcing smiles and tears of joy to emerge. Only two people weren't enthralled by this sight of celestial beauty. Gray tried his absolute best to not let out a pained cry as Juvia clenched his arm with all her might as she followed each step bride made with glistening eyes. The other one was a man with oddly blue hair, sitting still like a statue with eyes closed tight. Lucy slowly tilted her head to see reason for this unusual reaction. Erza was sitting next to man, holding his hand with such might that made his fingers slowly but surely turned white. Their was unnatural, far too sharp for comfort.

Priest has started his speech. None dared utter even a single word as bride and groom stood side by side, holding hands. Only Natsu was brave enough to occasionally nudge Gray and point toward Erza who didn't let her partner's hand even for one second. If he wasn't in that same position, he might've commented on it, but Juvia's fingers were digging far too deep in his biceps. All he could do is feel sympathy for the poor sod that accompanied Erza. The wedding continued.

"That was beautiful…" Juvia wept, clumsily wiping her eyes. Her mascara was all but ruined from tears that refused to stop. Crowd formed around newlywed couple, offering their heart-filled congratulations. Gentle sounds of violin were replaced by the booming sound of guitars and slow tempo quickly turned into lively one. Small delicacies on which guests gorged were removed and replaced by food prepared by some of the best chefs… It was more than evident that Makarov spared no expense to ensure wedding of his grandson is remembered for many more years to come. Old man also wasted no time indulging himself with beer, one glass after another, each gulp followed by another loud cry. None have seen him happier than he was that day.

"You know…" Natsu added, grinning ear to ear "I was absolutely sure Juvia would catch that bouquet."

Gray was far from amused by the comment and Juvia shared his sentiment. Despite her careful planning and on-spot calculations, it all proved to be entirely insignificant by a single factor… Erza was there… and her very presence petrified all other women into near-paralysis.

"Poor sod…" he averted attention from infuriated Juvia, nodding toward Jellal who looked as white as first winter's snow. Erza stood beside, admiring bouquet she held "He's in for it now."

"I don't feel bad for him." Natsu shrugged "Any man dumb enough think they can tame Erza deserves everything that follows. And there goes Laxus… fallen comrade."

"He will be missed…" both saluted toward man of the hour.

Even though both Juvia and Lucy were rolling eyes at their gesture, they still recited their 'eulogy'. Natsu's eyes often turned toward Lucy, noticing that her previous anxiety was all but gone. His heart warmed up at the sight of her smiling. His prediction turned out to be true… a bit of diversion turned out to be more than beneficial for her. It was a good day.

"You sure you don't want to stay a bit more?" Natsu asked as he and Lucy moved toward the gate.

"I can't let Levy spend all evening with Michelle. She has life of her own, you know."

Natsu only chuckled "How about I come with you then?"

"No need." She replied, still smiling softly "Besides, marriage changes people… This might be last time you see Laxus the way he is, you don't want to miss that."

"Maybe, but I'll miss you." He moved closer, hoping to catch her hand though without success. Lucy faced him and gently wrapped her arms around his neck. Soft pink lips pressed against his. His heart stopped for brief moment as her slim body pressed against his. If only they were in some alley, he thought…

"Kept my promise, didn't I?" She chuckled, peeling her lips away from his.

"That you did…" Natsu responded after few, painfully long seconds "Know what? They can continue without me, how about I walk with you?"

"I'll be just fine and you should spend some time with groom. You'll see me tomorrow again." Lucy added, pressing another, shorter kiss on his lips "Thank you for this evening. It truly helped take my mind off of things. And that's my ride coming."

He was reluctant to let her go but far from the fact he didn't understood why she was leaving. Three hours were more than enough for now. As hours passed, guests left one couple after another until only those closest to Laxus remained. Natsu and Gray vowed to be last men standing and for the good portion of the celebration, they followed their words religiously. Despite holding his liquor well, even Natsu started feeling effects of it and his tongue loosened with it.

"Hey." He heard familiar voice once again just beside him "Not coming in with the rest?"

"I'll be there in a minute, just… getting some fresh air." Natsu responded. Truth was, he just needed excuse to get out and regain his senses as seventh glass of beer already told him that it would be a great idea to dance naked on the table. Laxus might've allowed it… but Mirajane's gentle smile and grave silence alerted every single instinct in him… and the idea was quickly dismissed.

"So, who is the girl you came with?"

"Hm? Lucy? Oh she's uh…" He made a pause, long one "good friend…" It took him few more seconds to realize what he just said but he was unsure why he said it.

"You mean like other 'friends'? Come on, don't give me that look, brother Elf told me that you are very popular in Fairy Tail. You always did manage to attract everyone's attention with ease…"

Natsu's eyes were glued at Lisanna. Her softly crooked lips revealed a nostalgic looking smile. All her features where there… her eyes, her small nose, thin lips and short silky hair that his fingertips still remembered. She looked exactly the same and yet, at the same time, she was nothing like the young girl that used to shyly follow him everywhere he went.

"Seems like it was decades ago…" She continued, gazing toward endless silvery dots that adorned night sky.

"Yeah… I guess it does…" He added, tone low and whispering. Despite the calmness that surrounded them, he still couldn't settle ever-speeding thuds that threatened to break out of his chest.

"Do you regret it?" Lisanna asked and despite being vague Natsu knew exactly what she meant… but he had no answer. No, that was a lie, he had two answers and both contradicted each other "Sorry… that was out of the blue. Why don't we come in? I fear brother Elf is few more glasses away from ripping his shirt wide open."

Natsu nodded, following her steps like a shadow that crept upon its owner. Soft scent of her perfume that trailed behind her enveloped him like finest silk. No, she hasn't changed… not one bit… her way of walking, those soft sways that only she could pull, her scent, her voice, her very presence. Evening breeze caressed her hair and short grass hid her steps making him believe that she was a forest fairy, walking in front of him with unnatural grace. He didn't blink as he watched her back as if at any moment she might sprout and spread her wings. Apples and lilies… she smelled like apples and lilies. His heart kept beating fast.

Bright flash pierced through his eyelids and his hand clumsily felt around to try and grab onto the accursed source of it. Groggy eyes slowly opened. Everything was blurry and he barely recognized the shapes around him. He looked at the screen of the phone that kept flashing, reminding him that he has unread messages. He could not see how many nor did he care. All he cared about was time. Quarter past five… Slowly he lifted his head and looked through the window. Sky was still dark. He shifted himself on the bed, lying onto his back. His stomach felt full, aching but his mouth was dry and lips sharp and cracked. Once again he closed his eyes, thanking God that tomorrow is Sunday.

When did I come home? He groaned and slowly pushed himself up in sitting position. His feet ached, and his throat yearned for water. How?

Gray. It had to be him. This wouldn't be the first and hopefully not the last time he was dragged home drunk as ground after rain. Memories slowly returned as his eyes became more and more accustomed to the surrounding shapes. Laxus' wedding… that's right, crazy bastard got married yesterday and they stayed to celebrate one more time. There was… cheering, that much he was sure. And Gray removed his shirt… there was singing. What else? His hand moved across his chest confirming that he was without his own shirt. Did Gray strip me too?

It took him few more moments to realize that his head was thumping in perfect rhythm of his heart. Each beat brought another torrent of blunt pain that radiated throughout his entire head. I'm definitely gonna stop drinking… he promised to himself. Eyes wandered around. Room was large, larger than his own and most definitely larger than Gray's. None of the furniture that his groggy eyes could recognize seemed familiar.

Where the hell am I?

His hand, in an attempt to stabilize and push him off the bed, suddenly felt unfamiliar warmth under its touch. Fingertips twitched and moved on the pillow, feeling the sensation that he could only connect with that of hair.

Did I barge into Lucy's house?

The flood of memories continued. One after another, images of bacchanalia started falling into their place and he quickly turned head to see what he was touching. Body. There was a body right next to him. Woman's body.

No he thought and moved closer, gently moving hair that covered woman's face. His heart started racing. Even drunk he could recognize Lucy... but this was not Lucy.

No…

He recognized her, knew those lines and features… intimately. Blood drained from his face and pain that he felt in head was gone, dulled completely by the rush of adrenaline.

We didn't…

He grabbed edge of covers and looked down. Nothing was on him, not his shirt, not his pants, not his underwear. He lied completely naked and by the look of it… she was not one bit shyer than he was.

Oh sweet mother of God…

He pressed his hand against mouth as he backed away, standing up from bed, stark naked, staring wide-eyed at woman who slept peacefully. Images flashed before his eyes and he started remembering. Spilled beer on his pants… laughter… the smell of alcohol on his shirt… lilies.

No no…

They were alone. No, they sneaked out… they walked down the street… he remembered. He had something in hand… phone? No it wasn't phone. Bottle! Yes it was bottle. It was white wine that ended up spilled on his pants. She laughed… they entered the room… it was dark.

No no no…

He remembered the taste, the sharp sensation on his back… nails… they kissed, wildly, hungrily, peeling each other's clothes and tossed them around. She wrapped arms around his neck… he kissed her chin… the bed was near… he remembered her voice, bent and twisted, moaning, yearning and calling his name over and over. He remembered the smell of apples and lilies.

"That's all?" Gray asked but no answer came. Just a shameful nod of a man who stared down between his feet "You sure you two had sex?"

Another nod.

"Why?"

"I don't know, alright?!" Natsu growled but Gray didn't budge one bit by his hound-like response "It just… happened."

"Natsu it can't –just happen-" Gray retorted "You don't just accidently trip and fall between someone's legs then out and in again!"

There was no response.

"Well that explains how you suddenly disappeared without saying anything… Laxus called me to ask if I know where you are and if you've seen Lisanna… guess that question is rendered moot."

Silence resumed.

"No one, and I mean no one can fuck up your life the way you can. You are your own greatest enemy, Natsu. This proves it." Natsu wasn't saying a word. If he didn't blink every now and then, Grey would've been convinced that he was asleep.

"Right… what do you plan to do now? Hm? Speak up, you moron!"

"Nothing." Natsu finally responded, leaning back against the couch "Lisanna will leave in couple of days and… I won't say a thing about it."

"Nothing? Nothing?!" Gray took a deep breath and slowly exhaled, resuming with calmer tone "That… that might not be a bad idea. As long as you keep your mouth shut, you can actually survive next couple of days. Give me your shirt."

"What?" Natsu glared at Gray who stood up from his chair "Why?"

"For fuck's sake, just do as I tell you." Natsu took off his jacket and then his shirt. Without even waiting to be offered, Gray snatched it from Natsu's hands.

"Gonna tell me why you want it?"

"Look at this…" He crumpled cloth and showed Natsu collar of it where three lipstick marks were present "God forbid you run into your girlfriend, you really think you can explain why another woman's lipstick is on your shirt? Just say you lost it, it'll be easier to believe."

Image of that moment flashed before his eyes… Memory of him trying to unclasp Lisanna's bra and feeling of her face buried at crook of his neck. He swallowed hard and closed his eyes, still holding jacket in hands. Her lips left a burning mark underneath his skin.

"Go home, take a shower and go to sleep." Gray ordered "We'll figure out what to do when you are in better shape. And…"

"And?"

"And pray that Lisanna doesn't remember anything…"