A/N: Hello everyone, happy belated New Year. Sorry for the late update…again. I'm really sorry for these late updates but things got hectic with the holidays and New Year's and I've been working late so I've been a little busy. I also got some new Xbox games for Christmas and I've been going to Barnes & Noble for some new books (BECAUSE I LOVE TO READ!)…so yeah. I also hit a patch of writers block but it came back to me when, believe it or not, I was watching a Lord of the Rings marathon on TV. I love those movies and I really want to see the new Hobbit movie. Haven't read the books yet but I'll get to them sooner or later.
I hate to keep you guys waiting but things should be calming down. Honestly, I feel like a schmuck when I go too long without writing.
…I put some serious thought in to how I would have this chapter play out.
It took some effort, but due to the subject matter of this chapter, I have decided to change the rating of this story from "T" to "M". It's not because of anything really explicit but from now on, some things will be heavily implied and there will some serious swearing/violence going on. So I've decided to play it safe…well…as safe as one can be when they write on this site and give you guys the heads up.
So, I published my second story and it already has three reviews. YAY!
If you guys decide to read that story, I'm just letting ya'll know that the updates for it will be iffy because this story is my main priority at the moment. I will either complete this story first or I will leave you guys off with a cliffhanger when I get to the right point…maybe the latter because I like making you guys squirm *evil laugh*.
And now that that's cleared up, here's a shout out to you guys!
-Darkhope: Hello and welcome back! As promised, here's your Gruiva update, I hope you enjoy it. I'm glad I piqued your interest with the last chapter. Don't worry, I have a chapter planned put where some secrets shall be revealed…but there will still be plenty of questions. Have to keep you guys guessing if you know what I mean.
-Sesshomaru'sCrazygal: Welcome back you wonderful crazy girl! As always, it's so nice to hear from you. Darn, I really thought you had ESP and, yes, I don't think Natsu would be especially fond of his daughter getting together with Gray's son. Oh well, if it works; it works!
-skelekc: Hello! My story has piqued your curiosity…guess I'm doing something right X). Have no fear, all shall be revealed when the time comes.
-Guest: Thank you and welcome to the story, I'm glad you like it.
-kazenoseiren: Bonjour et bienvenue monsieur ou madame! I'm glad you liked the previous chapter. To answer your question, the kids in their own way are bringing their parents together. It's not like they're trying to force things, it's just that they want to be part of their parents' lives and dissolve the awkwardness between them. Yeah, I had to think on what I'd do for Gray and Juvia but I think I came up with a good idea (remember when I said I'd eventually make things steamy?). NaLu is my favorite pairing too by the way! I may be guy, but even I can't help but ship 'em! Glad you like Saito; he's kind of the quiet badass of the group but he's nice guy at heart. He doesn't try to be cool, it just sort of happens.
-Alien She: Hello and welcome to the story, I'm glad you like it. I don't know if this story is fantastic but if that's what everyone keeps saying about it then I guess it is. As for this chapter is mainly focused on Gray and Juvia...but there is some "interaction" between Gray and his children; especially Gray and Sam. As to what kind of interaction...well you'll just have to read and find out.
Thank you for your patience; here is your reward!
XXXX
CHAPTER 11: Reconnecting Pt.3 of 4
The gentle staccato of the pouring rain against the glass of the windows emitted a quiet echo throughout Gray Fullbuster's apartment.
It was this sound that began to rouse Gray from his sleep. His brows furrowing, Gray let out a small groan as he felt a full body ache make itself known. Forcing his eyes open, Gray looked to the left of his bed to where his alarm clock was.
It was quarter after four in the morning. The only illumination came from the street light outside.
As Gray let his eyes adjust to his surroundings, he suddenly became aware of the bandages wrapped around his forearms, torso and forehead…and of a weight and warmth on the right side of his body. It was a sensation he hadn't noticed before but it was a comfortable one none the less.
Looking to his right, Gray froze (no pun intended) as every muscle in his body tensed.
There, laying on her side, was Juvia Lockser.
Her breathing deep and even, Juvia was curled into Gray with her head resting in the crook of his neck and had her right hand laying on his chest, her left resting beneath Gray's right arm; which happened to be resting on Juvia's shoulder, holding her in close.
Her hair was slightly disheveled but she had a content almost peaceful look on her face.
It was also then that Gray noticed that both he and Juvia were naked, the lower halves of their bodies covered by the bed sheet; their legs intertwined with each other. Juvia mumbled something incoherent in her sleep and snuggled closer to her heat source…which happened to be Gray.
Gray's thoughts ran rampant through his mind, his heart pounding in his chest as he began to panic.
Had something happen between him and Juvia?
He was very aware of what his current predicament was implying but what he wanted to know was how he had ended up that way!
Gray was beginning to assume the worst when the memories of the previous day instantly came rushing back to his mind.
"Oh…I remember now." Gray muttered as he began to massage his forehead with his free hand.
XXXX
The previous day…
Gray locked his apartment door and went down the stairs that led from his building. Hands in his pockets, Gray made his way down the street and headed for the Guild; his mind set in deep thought. His thoughts in turn centered on the most recent events that had occurred at the Guild. These events being Natsu, Lucy, Gajeel and Levy getting together.
Now it wasn't a bad thing; far from it. In fact, Gray and most of the Guild, thought it was about damn time that the lovebirds got together.
But seeing his Guild mates now become exclusive with each other made Gray think about something's he would rather not.
Or, someone, to be more precise.
No matter how hard he tried avoid it, thoughts of Juvia Lockser kept pressing themselves to his mind.
Thoughts of her…and of his son and two daughters.
Gray sighed and looked to the sky.
Since the arrival of the kids and the incident in Crocus, Gray had put some distance between him and Juvia. Just being near her made him think of the Grand Magic Games and the Crocus job. He thought of his conflicted feelings and the things he had long since tried to repress in the back of his mind.
And all the while, he had noticed the hurt or pained looks on Juvia's face whenever he avoided her. He had seen the looks Sam and Jenny would give each other; the concerned and, in Sam's case, the disappointed looks.
Gray sighed and lowered his head.
He hated himself for what he was putting Juvia and the others through…but he didn't think he was ready to face them…not with his current mindset.
Coward, said the voice in Gray's head.
Gray winced at the word. He guessed his inner voice was finally making itself known.
What are you so afraid of? Why do continue to hurt them…why do you continue to hurt her?
"You think I enjoy avoiding and hurting them?!" Gray yelled back at the voice.
You tell me. You seem to be doing a damn good job of running from your own problems…coward.
"Stop calling me that!" Gray hissed.
It's true and you know it. You don't hesitate to start fights and run headlong into danger. But when it comes to matters concerning those who get close to you, you put your tail between your legs and try to push them away. When it comes to your own heart, you just build up a wall of ice and do your best to ignore the pain. Face it man; you're a coward.
So caught up in his internal struggle that Gray nearly jumped out of his skin when he felt someone tap him on the shoulder, thus knocking him out of his thoughts.
Gray turned around and was surprised to find both Sam and Chiara standing behind him. The latter holding her older brother's hand.
"Jeez man, don't sneak up on me like that!" Gray said as he regained his composure.
Sam smirked.
"And pass up the opportunity to get one up on my old man, I think not."
Chiara giggled.
Gray sighed and rubbed his neck.
"Is there a reason you're here or did you just figure you'd get some kicks out of scarring me?"
"Actually there is." Sam said before he pointed a finger Chiara.
"Mom and Jenny are busy today and I have some errands I need to run. Thus, Chiara needs someone to look after her, if only for a little bit."
Gray's eyes widened slightly.
"And that someone is you." Sam said.
Gray looked from Sam to Chiara, who was looking expectantly at Gray, and back to Sam.
"Surely you can't be serious."
Sam drew his lips into a thin line.
"I am…and don't call me Shirley."
Gray was about to protest but Sam cut him off.
"Don't say you can't. You don't have a busy schedule and there are no jobs available at the Guild Hall. You have the time…I encourage you to take advantage of it."
Sam then looked down at Chiara with a small smile.
"Besides," Sam said as he gently patted his little sister's head, "this little lady has been wanting to see her Daddy for some time now."
Gray sighed and took his hands out of his pockets. He couldn't put this off any longer he guessed.
Sam let Gray take Chiara's hand, the latter surprised at how strong the little girls grip could be.
"I'll find you two later when I'm done. If not, meet me at the Guild Hall."
Sam bent down in front of Chiara.
"If anything bad happens, you head right for the Guild Hall. You remember where it is right?"
"Yep." Chiara said with a smile and nod of her head.
Sam quickly kissed her forehead.
"That a girl." And with that Sam stood, turned on his heel and went in the opposite direction.
Gray watched as his son went about his business. He had a nagging feeling at the back of his mind that fate was somehow involved in all of this…he just wasn't sure to what extent yet.
Turing his attention to the situation at hand, Gray came to a stark realization…he had absolutely no idea what to do.
Looking down at Chiara, who gave her father a smile in turn, Gray felt a lump from up his throat.
"So!" Gray said, a little too loud, "What…what do want to do?"
"Smooth." Gray thought.
Chiara put her finger to her chin in thought, a gesture that Gray found to be very cute.
"Can we go to the playground in the park?" Chiara asked.
"…Sure, if that's what you'd like."
Chiara nodded in a gleeful manner and began to walk down the road, tugging Gray along as she did so.
Gray couldn't help but smile at the little girl's enthusiasm. In a way it reminded him of himself when he was around her age, back before he had met Lyon and Ur. Back when he had a home and a care free life. Back when he had a family.
Family…the word sounded foreign to Gray now. Sure Gray had the Guild, his nakama, but after all that had happened, Gray didn't know the first thing to do about being a father. His parents had died when his home village was destroyed and Ur had sacrificed herself to protect him and Lyon. He guessed he could always talk to Alzack about the matter…but he wouldn't know where to begin.
Gray let out another sigh. What had he gotten himself into?
"Daddy?" Chiara asked, catching Gray's attention.
Gray blinked twice and looked at the little girl.
"Huh?" Gray asked.
"What's wrong, you look sad?"
"…I'm not sad, I'm just thinking about things that's all." Gray said trying to reassure Chiara.
"Are you thinking about mommy?" Chiara asked.
Gray paused and began to rub the back of his neck.
"…Daddy…why are you and mommy not together?"
"It's…" Gray said, trying to think of the right word, "it's…complicated."
Chiara's brow furrowed in confusion.
"Mommy and…daddy," Gray said, the words not rolling off the tongue, "we're just having problems at the moment. That's all."
"…Is that why Ani-san is mad at you?"
"Sam?" Gray asked.
Chiara nodded.
"Ani and Ane-san keep talking about you and mommy…they sound mad."
Gray sighed again.
"Chiara…things are just complicated at the moment. But it'll get better…don't worry."
"…Okay daddy."
And with that, the two continued on their walk.
XXXX
Gray sat on a park bench as he watched Chiara run about the slides and swings of the park.
His eyes never leaving her, Gray couldn't help but smile when he noticed the similarities between her and Juvia. She really did take after her mother.
His thoughts once again drifted back to Juvia. He thought about her warm smile and all the silliness that went on between them whenever they wound up together. Gray smiled at the memories. But his thoughts also drifted to Sam, Jenny and little Chiara.
They were his children. They were Juvia's children.
They were their children.
Looking back to the playground, Gray could almost imagine Sam, Jenny and Chiara when they were little running about the playground. Sam would be trying to go as high as he could go on the swings and Jenny would be riding down the slides with Chiara. And all the while, Gray and Juvia would sit on a bench and watch their children.
Nice isn't it? The inner voice said.
Gray didn't respond.
You can imagine that fantasy but you know it will never happen unless you face her.
Gray gripped his knees.
"I can't." Gray thought.
Why?
"I just can't."
Can't or won't. There you go again…running away.
"Shut up!"
You're running away from her…and your past.
"I said shut up!"
…Alright…but one question; where's Chiara?
Gray's head suddenly snapped up, his eyes furiously scanning the playground.
He didn't see Chiara anywhere.
Instantly on his feet, Gray began running through the park in search of Chiara.
"Stupid, stupid, stupid!" Gray mentally berated himself.
"How could I be so stupid, I should have been watching her; she's my fucking daughter for crying out loud!"
Though Gray didn't notice it in the heat of the moment, he would later think back and remember that he had accepted Chiara as his daughter.
Gray stood in the middle of the park, out of breathe and panicking. He was getting ready to call out Chiara's name when he saw a patch of blue and white out of the corner of his eye. Spinning around, Gray saw Chiara, sitting down near a fountain.
"Chiara!" Gray all but practically blurted out.
Chiara spun around and waved to Gray. Gray was at her side in a matter of minutes, Chiara scooped into his arms. Once he let go of her, Gray firmly grasped Chiara's shoulders.
"I was so worried about you, you scared me half to death!"
"I-I'm sorry daddy." Chiara said, tears forming in her eyes.
Gray let out a calming breathe and brought Chiara into another hug.
"Don't you ever run off like that again, okay; don't ever do that again."
"Yes daddy."
Gray let out a sigh before looking back at Chiara.
"Why did you come over here anyway?"
Chiara smiled and pointed at the water. Closing her eyes in deep concentration, Chiara put her hands in the water and slowly pulled them out.
Gray's eyes widened when he saw the water begin to swirl around Chiara's fingers in intricate loops.
"Mommy taught me this when I was taking a bath."
Chiara then smiled.
"But, I can do this too."
Chiara pursed her lips and blew out cool air. The water began to freeze but just as quickly as it did, the ice melted and the water fell back into the fountain.
Chiara frowned.
"But it doesn't last long."
Gray tapped his finger on the rim of the fountain before a small smile formed on his face.
"Can you do that again please?"
Chiara cocked her head to the side bud nodded.
As the water formed around her hand and wrist, Gray extended his fingers and muttered a small incantation. The water froze into ice so clear it could be considered crystal and formed a unique bracelet around Chiara's wrist.
Chiara's beaming smile spoke volumes as she threw her arms around Gray in a tight hug.
"Thank you daddy!"
It took Gray a second but he eventually returned Chiara's hug.
"This feels nice…natural." Gray thought.
…Told you. The inner voice said.
XXXX
"There you two are; having fun are we?"
"Ani-san!" Chiara called out as she hopped off the swing set, Gray following close behind.
Chiara hugged her brother as she was scooped up into his arms before being set back down.
"Look what daddy made me Ani-san." Chiara said as she held up the ice-bracelet.
"Did he now?" Sam said as his lips quirked into a small smile.
Gray simply stuffed his hands into his pockets and matched Sam's smile.
"Yep, just taking the time to play with my daughter."
Sam let his shoulders straighten, his smile diminishing slightly.
"So…you've accepted who we are; me and my sisters?"
Gray tensed slightly but didn't let it show.
"…I have."
Sam's smile was gone now, his lips having formed a thin line.
"And what about mom…have you accepted her?"
When Gray didn't respond, Sam's eyes narrowed slightly…and Gray met his sons look with a glare of his own. The tension immediately could be felt between the two, and Chiara unconsciously stepped away from her brother and her father.
"D-daddy…ani-san?" Chiara spoke, her voice quivering in fear slightly. She always knew when her big brother and father were really angry. And when her brother and father got angry…Chiara always became afraid.
Sam extended his hand towards Chiara, his eyes slowly looking at his sister.
"Stand back sweetheart, Daddy and I are going to have a grown up chat."
Chiara did as she was told and Sam directed his attention back to Gray.
"Why?" Sam asked, referring back to the previous conversation.
"It's complicated." Gray answered back, his hands coming out of his pockets.
"That's bull and you know it."
"You don't know me."
Sam let out a humorless chuckle.
"You're my dad, I know you better than anyone else…what's the real reason for why you're avoiding mom?"
"I said…it's complicated." Gray said, his temper starting to rise. He didn't want to have this conversation. Not now, not yet.
"She loves you more than anything else in the world. Do you know how much you're hurting her by what you're doing?"
Gray remained silent but continued to glare.
"Is it so hard just to talk to her…is it so hard to just open up to her and tell her what's going on?"
"I'm not having this conversation Sam." Gray bit out.
"Tough because I am."
Father and son glared at each other.
"What are you so afraid of?"
"I'm not afraid."
"Liar." Sam hissed.
Gray's chest heaved slightly, his hands forming into fists.
"This. Conversation. Is. Over." Gray said through clenched teeth.
Gray spun on his heel and began to stalk off.
"Coward." Sam said.
Gray froze in his tracks. He then spun around slowly with a dangerous look in his eyes.
"What did you just call me?" Gray said, his voice dangerously low.
Sam didn't answer and Gray was soon nose to nose with his son.
"WHAT DID YOU JUST CALL ME!?" Gray hollered.
"You heard me." Sam said and before Gray knew what happened, Sam had delivered a fierce upper cut to Gray's jaw.
Gray went flying back and Chiara screamed.
"Daddy!" Chiara started to run towards Gray but Sam blocked her path.
"Stay out of this Chiara…this is between me and him." Sam said, his voice low.
Gray pushed himself up on his hands and glared daggers at Sam. He tasted copper in his mouth and ran hand across his mouth when he felt a warmth spread across it. Gray looked at his hand and saw a small amount of blood. Sam slowly threw took off his shirt and undershirt while Gray pulled off his t-shirt.
Without saying a word, the two launched themselves at each other as their personal melee began.
Chiara watched in fear as two people she loved the most began to match blow for blow. Her lip quivering and eyes beginning to tear up, Chiara suddenly remembered what Sam had told her earlier.
"If anything bad happens, you head right for the Guild Hall."
And that's what she did.
XXX
The Guild Hall was rowdy as usual. People were talking, drinking and enjoying the amenities the building offered.
Sitting at his usual spot at the bar, Igneel flipped the page in the book he always seemed to be reading and took a sip from his glass of water.
"Where's Sam and Chiara?" Igneel asked, his eyes never leaving his page.
"He said he had some things to take care of today and was going to get my dad to look after Chaira." Jenny said as she rested her chin on her hands. Juvia sat next to Jenny while she talked to Lucy and the other girls.
"Ah…how are things between you and your dad by the way?"
Jenny frowned slightly.
"We've spoken a little. He's not trying to be rude or anything but I think this whole situation is a little overwhelming for him. I don't blame him, I'd have problems adjusting if my kid's suddenly showed up out of the blue."
"I hear you there." Igneel said.
He turned a page.
"How's your mom?"
Jenny sighed.
"Dad's been avoiding her…it's really taking a lot out of her."
Igneel looked up from his book.
"I wish she and dad would just sit down and talk about this whole thing. They can't go on like this forever."
"Your dad is stubborn and Sam takes after him that regard. I guess all your dad needs is to have some sense knocked into him or something like that." Igneel said as he articulated the words by spinning his hand.
"Whoa little lady, watch where you're going I almost stepped on you!" Elfman said loudly as he opened the main door.
"Ane-san, Ane-san!" Chiara called out desperately as she ran towards the bar, people moving out of her way as she weaved her way to the bar.
"What is it Chaira; what's the matter? Jenny said as she picked up her sister, trying to calm her down.
Chiara panted and gasped for breathe, her little lungs burning from running at full speed.
"D-daddy *gasp* and Sam *gasp* are* fighting; they won't stop…punching each other!" Chiara managed to say between breathes.
"WHAT!?" Both Jenny and Juvia cried out, the latter having heard the commotion.
"When I said "knock some sense into him", I didn't mean it literally." Igneel said as he began to run towards the door.
XXXX
Igneel, Jenny, Juvia, and Chiara, along with a small group from the Guild, had double timed it to the park…which is where they found Sam and Gray still trading blows.
"Sam, what the hell are you doing!?" Jenny cried out in fear as she watched Sam slug Gray in the ribs, thus knocking him back.
Sam spun towards the group, his index finger raised in warning.
"Stay back; this is between me and him!"
Gray got back onto his feet as he and Sam squared off again.
"What the hell are those two thinking?" Erza growled as she prepared to intervene.
She stepped forward but Igneel stretched out arm to black her.
Igneel shook his head as he met her surprised look.
"This is something they have to sort out on their own." Igneel said as he looked back in time to see both Sam and Gray strike each other simultaneously with a fierce right cross.
Bruised and bleeding, the two took a knee as they glared at each other.
"Are…are you done yet?" Gray said as he spat out some blood.
"Not until you answer my question?"
Gray growled slightly.
"I told you I'm not af-" Gray was cut off however.
Sam had used his ice magic to launch himself at his father. Tackling the ice mage to the ground, Sam delivered a left cross to Gray's face and held Gray's wrists down.
"You are afraid, stop lying to my face!"
Gray glared at Sam, the two's expressions matching each other perfectly. Sam really was his father's son.
"Why can't you just admit it to yourself? You know how mom feels about you, why are you trying to push her away? Is it that hard to let someone in that you have to push them away even if it hurts you too!? Stop being a coward and face the facts!"
There was that word again; coward.
Gray was sick of hearing that word.
He was sick of his inner voice calling him a coward.
He was sick of Sam calling him a coward.
He was sick, sick, and SICK of it!
"I. AM NOT. A. COWARD!" Gray yelled at the top of his lungs.
Bringing his knees up, Gray pushed Sam off of him with a fierce double kick. Landing on his back, Sam found himself kept down when Gray planted his boot to Gray's chest.
His body shaking from adrenaline and anger, Gray couldn't hold it in any longer.
"You want to know why I've been avoiding her, huh, do you!? Fine, I'll fucking tell you! The reason why I'm avoiding Juvia is because I'll only hurt her if I let her in; she's nearly died twice because of me, how could I possibly let her in!? She nearly died even when I tried to save her during the Grand Magic Games and I failed to protect her during Crocus!"
Gray took in a deep breathe.
"Despite all of that, she still loves me even though I've caused her nothing than pain."
Gray removed his boot from Sam's chest and Sam leaned up on his elbows.
"There's more to it than that." Sam said as he carefully watched Gray.
"You've had plenty of girls in your life before and after you met mom…why is she so different; why are you freaking out now?"
Gray lowered his head.
"…You're right…but she's not like the others. She's far from 'em. No matter what has happened between us, she's always been there; she's always stuck by me."
Gray's right hand shook.
"She's getting too close!" Gray suddenly snapped.
"She's getting…she's getting too close." Gray said as he fell to his knees, his voice becoming hoarse.
"After my parents died…all I could think about was avenging them and my village. I threw up a wall around my heart and said I would never let anyone get close again. But then I met Ur and Lyon. Ur became a second mother to me…she took care of me and Lyon as if we were her own. She trained us…took care of us. She brought down the wall I had brought up around my heart. I thought I could love again.
"But then Ur sacrificed herself to protect me and Lyon. And just like that, I had lost someone I had cared about…someone I loved. After that…I swore I would never let anyone get close to me again; to protect myself and them. If I let Juvia get close to me…we'll both just hurt each other in the end."
Gray looked at Sam, revealing the tears silently running down his cheeks.
"How could she ever love someone like me?"
Silence permeated throughout the area. So enraptured was the small crowd that an eternity could have passed and no one would notice.
Then, slowly and carefully, Juvia stepped forward from the group and made her way to Gray. Once she was close enough, Juvia knelt beside Gray, who was refusing to look at her.
"Gray-sama…" Juvia said as she gently placed her hand on Gray's shoulder. Gray winced at her touch.
"Gray-sama, please look at Juvia." Juvia said.
Gray continued to look away from her.
Using her other hand, Juvia gently cupped Gray's cheek and turned Gray's head to face her.
"Gray-sama…please look at me."
Gray's eyes widened in shock. In the time that he had known Juvia…he had never heard her speak about herself in the first person. Never.
"It's okay Gray-sama." Juvia said as she brought Gray into a gentle hug.
"It's okay…let it out."
Gray's body began to shake as silent sobs racked his body. He clutched onto Juvia as if she was a lifeline, as all the tension and pain from the years flooded out of his body. And all the while, Juvia continued to comfort Gray.
"Is daddy okay?" Chiara asked as she stood behind her sister's leg.
"He's okay sweetie…he just needed to let out some bad things that's all."
"And…and Ani-san?"
Jenny smiled slightly.
"He just needed to help daddy."
Jenny made her way over to Sam and knelt beside him, Chiara doing the same.
"You're an idiot you know that right?" Jenny asked in a matter of fact tone.
Before Sam could answer, Jenny slapped him across the face before carefully bringing him into a hug of her own.
"You're such an idiot."
"I know…I'm sorry." Sam said as he brought Chiara into the hug as well.
"I'm sorry."
XXXX
It was now dark outside.
Gray sat on his couch as Juvia wrapped another set of bandages around his left arm.
After the fight, Sam had apologized to Gray for what he'd done.
"I just couldn't stand it anymore…I let my temper get the best of me; I'm sorry…dad."
Sam extended his hand as a sign of apology.
"Forgive me?" Sam asked.
Gray was silent and full minute had passed before Gray had grasped Sam's hand…and pulled him into a hug.
No words were needed, the message had been conveyed.
Igneel had offered to help take Gray home but it was Juvia who had persisted. Not wanting to come between the water mage and her beloved ice mage, Igneel and the rest of the group had decided to let Juvia tend to Gray.
Which is where the two were currently now.
Gray winced slightly when Juvia finished wrapping bandages around Gray's torso.
"Is something wrong?" Juvia asked.
"Did…did I hurt something?"
Gray shook his head.
"It's just my ribs…damn, Sam can punch."
Juvia frowned as Gray began to, or attempt to, massage the sore area. Gray formed a small block of ice in his hand and applied it to his ribs.
"It's more convenient than an ice pack, I can tell you that much." Gray hissed through the pain.
Juvia pursed her lips in thought for a moment before gently smiling.
"I…I have a better idea." Juvia said as she lowered Gray's hand, the ice disappearing as she did so.
Raising her hand and gently setting it on Gray's ribs, Juvia formed a small sphere of water on her hand.
"Purifying bubble." Juvia said as the water began to glow.
Gray let out a content sigh as he felt the immediate effects of the healing water.
"Jenny has been teaching m-me some of her techniques…in case I ever need to heal myself or others."
Gray nodded contently.
As Juvia let the water soothe Gray, the ice mage began to unconsciously lean closer to Juvia. There was just something so comforting about the water and being in Juvia's prescnece.
"There," Juvia said as the water dissipated, "all…better?"
It was then that the two mages realized how close they were to each other. Their noses were just inches apart.
"Gray…Gray-sama?" Juvia whispered.
Gray's mouth was suddenly very, very dry. He couldn't form a coherent thought in his head. He could see every feature on Juvia's face in the clearest detail. From the soft glow of her skin, the gentle curve of her lips to her captivating, deep blue eyes.
Gray was entranced.
A strange warmth began to fill Gray's chest as his heart beat began to quicken.
He suddenly had the urge to kiss Juvia…to bring those gentle lips of together with his.
Overcome by this new urge, Gray began to lean closer to Juvia. Gray's fingers interlaced with Juvia's as the water mages eyes began to widen.
"Gray-sama!?" Juvia whispered.
Gray didn't answer as his lips hovered over hers, the breath from his nose tickling her upper lip.
"G-gray…s-sa-"
Juvia never finished. Gray had sealed his lips over hers as he brought her into a gentle, but passionate kiss; their eyes fluttering shut.
Juvia's heart pounded in her ears. This couldn't be happening! Gray was kissing her…he was actually kissing her! Only in her wildest fantasies did she dare dream of this happening between her and Gray. And yet, here they were; sharing a very intimate lip lock. Gray's lips were slightly cold and contrasted against Juvia's warm lips. But…it was a captivating mixture of temperatures. A mixture that stirred something awake deep between the two.
However, the need for air became apparent and the two parted as they gasped for breathe. Juvia's cheeks were a deep, rosy red while Gray had a tinge of pink on his.
"Gray…" Juvia whispered.
The realization of what occurred hit Gray in a moment of stark clarity.
"I…" Gray said as he began to stand up, "I shouldn't have done that."
"Wait!" Juvia said as she gently grabbed Gray's wrist with both of her hands.
"Juvia?" Gray said as Juvia stood up with Gray. She then brought Gray's hand to her chest and let Gray feel the beating of her heart; the muscle still emitting a staccato beat.
"You don't know how long I've wanted that," Juvia said, "How long I've dreamed of that happening."
Juvia then brought Gray's hand to her cheek, using her hands so that his fingers would cup her face.
"Juvia…how?" Gray said.
"How can you be so accepting of me; after all that I've done to you, how?"
Juvia smiled a warm smile.
"I…I knew from the moment I met you that you were the only one for me. You were different from anyone else I had met before…you were the only one who stopped the rain that reflected the sadness in my heart…the only one who allowed me to see the sky clearly for the first time without the rain to block my view of the world. You opened my heart Gray.
"I knew for a long time that you were in pain. I tried to be there for you even though you wouldn't open up to me. I respected you and despite my innermost desires, I knew you would talk about it when the time was right."
A tear fell down Juvia's cheek.
"I thought I had lost you during the Grand Magic Games. I felt the life leave your body…I…I didn't know what to do. But somehow, I felt as if you were watching me…letting me know everything would be alright. And in Crocus…I couldn't stomach the thought of that woman touching you…hurting you like she did. I would rather forsake my own soul than see you die."
Juvia paused as she took in a shaky breathe.
"I know I've been obsessive over you. I know I've let my emotions blind me sometimes…but I just can't bear to think about not being by your side. It breaks my heart."
Another tear fell.
"But I've done all of this because…because…" Juvia croaked out.
"Because I love you Gray. I love you with all my heart."
Gray was still as the words sunk deep within his psyche. Despite everything, all the pain and all the awkward moments, Juvia still found it within herself to unconditionally love Gray.
Gray felt himself tear up. He leaned his head forward and rested his forehead against Juvia's.
"How…how did I ever deserve a girl like you?"
Rather than speak, Juvia swallowed hard and took the bold move of kissing Gray. A kiss which Gray returned. No words needed to be spoken; their emotions quickly becoming conveyed through the touching of their lips.
The two soon became lost within each other. Time soon lost all meaning as Gray and Juvia repeatedly brought their lips together. Soon their hands snaked around each other bringing them closer together.
However, it wasn't enough.
A spark had been lit within both Gray and Juvia. It was a spark that resided deep within their souls…and it demanded more to fuel the fire building between the two.
Soon hands began roaming over sides and backs, the kisses becoming deeper and more passionate.
More…they needed more; they craved more.
Gray brushed his tongue against Juvia's lips and that's when it all began to boil over.
Juvia let out a pleasure filled moan that was accompanied by a spine tingling shiver; both of which resonated into Gray's hands and throat. Gray himself let out a deep, throaty moan which came from deep within his chest and he didn't hesitate to force his tongue into Juvia's open and awaiting mouth. Juvia wrapped her arms around Gray's neck and shoulders and pushed her body flush against his. As their tongues wrestled with each other, Gray began to unconsciously guide both him and Juvia towards his bedroom.
Quickly finding his back against the door, the two broke apart for only a moment to catch their breath before resuming their passionate kissing. Fumbling with the door knob, Gray settled on kicking the door open with his foot. He'd worry about the damage latter. All that mattered now was him and more importantly; Juvia.
Juvia proceeded to hoist her legs up and wrap them around Gray's waist, causing him to stumble back as he used his one hand to support the small of Juvia's back while his other cupped her rump. Spinning around, the two tumbled down onto Gray's double sized bed.
Gray quickly broke from the kiss and, after giving Juvia a heated look, began to kiss her throat. This new sensation caused Juvia to gasp out in shock. She hadn't expected that. But then again, Gray was the experienced one between the two of them.
But then again; Juvia was a fast learner.
She soon began mimicking Gray's actions which produced a unique series of gasps from him. This continued on for minutes…but it wasn't enough.
And Gray knew that.
Pulling up from Juvia, Gray placed his hands next to Juvia's head, framing her. He gave her a loving smile before gently moving a stray strand of hair behind Juvia's ear.
"You're so beautiful…I can't believe I didn't realize it until now."
Juvia smiled before she gently traced a finger across Gray's collar bone and then down his chest.
"You had your reasons…but that doesn't matter anymore."
Gray gave Juvia a warm smile.
"You're not my first…but it's been a while."
Juvia's heavy blush returned.
"But those girls never meant anything to me…they were just an outlet for the ice that encased my heart. You…you're someone else…someone special."
Juvia couldn't help the tears that ran down her cheeks. She hoped to Mavis that this wasn't some cruel dream…because if it was, she never wanted to wake up from it.
"If…if we go through with this…you'll be mine…and I'll be yours."
Juvia pulled Gray into a deep and slow kiss.
"I wouldn't have it any other way," Juvia said as she steadily began to disrobe, "I want this; more than anything else."
Gray took a calming breathe before giving Juvia a reassuring smile. If she wanted this, who was he to deny her.
Gray soon began to aid Juvia in removing the barriers that separated their bodies. For a man who unconsciously stripped out his clothes on a twenty four-seven, day to day basis, he found himself fumbling. But after some assistance from Juvia and removing his pants and boxers, the two were both bare as the day they were born.
"Juvia…" Gray's voice came out in a whisper, "you're…you're not beautiful. You're downright stunning." Gray said as he marveled at the perfect, shadow accented curves and the glow her body gave off in the low light.
Juvia became aware that she was not dreaming and that she was naked before her crush's eyes. Her shyness returning, Juvia attempted to cover her body with her hands but Gray stopped her, his hands gently holding her wrists. Gray soon intertwined their fingers.
"You have nothing to hide from me," Gray calmly reassured Juvia, "don't…don't be embarrassed."
Juvia could only nod slowly as Gray delivered a soul searing kiss.
It was time.
"Y-you…y-you're m-my first…I've never done this with anyone else." Juvia whispered into Gray's ear.
Those words somehow filled Gray with a strange sense of pride.
"Then I'll be gentle…this will hurt…but I'll be gentle."
Kissing Juvia one more time, the ice and water mage soon began their first coupling.
XXXX
It was an amazing experience to say the least. It had been something that words could never truly describe.
Gray had been right when he told Juvia she would experience some pain. When Juvia cried out, Gray held her close as her nails dug into his back and buried her face into the crook of his neck. But he was gentle none the less as he whispered apologies and hushed words of comfort into her ear.
And as the pain subsided, Gray began to slowly and then steadily make love to Juvia. He was gentle but firm at the same time; a combination that drove Juvia mad with pleasure. They soon fell into rhythm with each other; their breaths and their heartbeats soon coming into synch.
They had no idea how long they kept their bodies joined together. Time once again had no meaning. But once the peak of their passion was reached, they both came spiraling down in pure, uncontrollable pleasure.
With a cry of pure, carnal bliss, Juvia collapsed onto Gray's chest as the ice mage let out a deep, animalistic groan from deep within himself.
The two stayed together, their arms and legs intertwined, their bodies covered in a sweaty sheen that only accented the afterglow of their love making.
No words were spoken as Gray numbly pulled the bed sheet over their bodies. Neither wanted to speak, inly enjoy the moment as they slowly felt sleep begin to cover them in its own blanket.
As Gray felt his eyes become heavy, he pulled Juvia closer to him. Juvia was all too heavy to snuggle up to her lover.
The sound of steady rain made itself known.
Gray heard Juvia stifle a sniffle and he casted his eyes down to her. Tears fell from Juvia's eyes…but a beautiful smile graced her face. She was crying tears of joy…and the weather reflected that joy.
"I love you Gray." Juvia whispered as her eye's closed, "so…so much."
Gray smiled and kissed Juvia's forehead.
"And I, you…Juvia."
The two soon fell into a dreamless sleep.
XXXX
Now…
Gray let his hand fall from his forehead as the memory faded away. It was something he would never forget. So long as he lived, he would remember the day that he and Juvia became one. The day that the ice around his heart crumbled away. The day that he gave his heart to the woman who captured it.
Did he regret it, Gray wondered.
Looking back at Juvia, Gray shook his head as a smile crossed his face.
No…he didn't regret a minute.
He only wished he hadn't been so blind to Juvia.
Kissing Juvia's forehead, Gray shifted to laying on his side and pulled Juvia close; the latter smiling in her sleep.
Gray was soon back to sleep, the calm pitter-patter of the rain lulling him back into a dreamless slumber. A content smile on his face.
XXXX
A/N: And there you have it guys! I hoped you enjoyed it.
This chapter was, from my perspective as a writer, a serious first step for me. I haven't written something like this before so I hope I didn't do anything wrong. If you guys have any advice or comments, I'd appreciate your input. But let's face it, the sexual tension between Gray and Juvia is bound to spill over at some point sooner or later.
Like I said earlier, things shouldn't be too busy for me so I'll try to update the next chapter ASAP. Just one more chapter and the "Reconnecting" Arc will be over. I will then start working on the real nitty-gritty of the story. That's right folks, Chapters 13 and 14 will start to thicken the plot! Prepare thy selves!
As usual, if you guys have any comments or questions, please put it in your review and I'll make sure to respond to you in the next chapter.
Until next time; read, review and most importantly of all, HAPPY READING!