Chapter 24

"Rise and shine! Get your lazy asses here!"

Jellal groaned at the sound of Natsu's beaming voice inside Fairy Law's HQ. He buried his face in between his pillow and his bed and ignored Natsu. Hoping that he's not that persistent –

CLANK CLANK CLANK CLANK CLANK CLANK

He immediately sat up on his bed as he heard two metals crash against each other. When his vision adjusted he saw Natsu on their door with two pans on his hands, he grinned widely at him. Jellal looked to his right and saw that Gajeel was still sleeping and you could hear the loud metal rock music coming from his headphones. At that moment he envied Gajeel, and then he averted his gaze on Natsu and glared at him.

"What's your problem?"

"Good morning Jellal! Breakfast is ready!" He just smiled at him and walked away.

Breakfast? Ready? Natsu? That doesn't seem to fit together.

Soon he heard fighting from other room. It only means one thing: Gray's awake. And by the looks of it, he too was forced to wake up by Natsu. Why was he so energetic earl – He looked at his clock. He grabbed it and blinked his eyes.

6:00 am

His eyes widen and he let out a battle cry. "What the hell Natsu?!"

Their door opened wide again, showing a grinning Natsu with pans on his hand followed by Gray who's only wearing his boxers, yawning and was scratching the back of his head.

"Why'd you wake us up this early?!" Jellal yelled. It's not really a good idea waking Jellal up before the time he's supposed to.

Natsu walked inside their room. "Well you see, we need to practice for the upcoming event."

"But! It's not until next next week! Haven't you remembered Lamia Scale and Mermaid Heel will be performing these weekends?" Jellal fell on his pillows, pulling his blanket over him.

Suddenly, he felt a tug on his blanket. He peeked and suddenly his blanket was completely pulled away from him.

"Damn it!"

"You need to hear me first." Natsu said. His eyes became serious as he sat at the foot of Jellal's bed, Gray was leaning by the door frame still yawning. "We need to make every Band Battle the best. All of our performances should be like it's our last."

"But it all depends on your energy."

"Yeah, I know. But wouldn't it be nice if everyone is lively as well? We'll be performing better that way." Natsu grinned.

"What's with you? I thought it doesn't matter to you whether we win or lose the competition." Jellal yawned and rubbed his sleepy eyes.

Natsu leaned back and supported himself with his arms looking at the ceiling. "Hm. Let's just say, I meteor struck me and now all I care is how to secure the event's suc –"

"All he was trying to say was.." Gray yawned. "..it's all for Lucy." Natsu glared at him. "What?! You should've thanked me for explaining things simpler. Besides Jellal won't get what you're saying because it's all nonsense."

"Nonsense you say? Then what you're saying is trash!"

"Oh yeah? So you're starting on something?!"

"I don't think I started it, droopy-eyed exhibitionist!"

"Well you woke us u –"

"STOP!" Jellal shouted in annoyance. "I haven't fully understood it all. Explain it to me further." He turned to Gray.

Gray sighed. "You see?" He mocked Natsu.

Natsu huffed and crossed his arms across his chest looking away.

"Natsu's fallen in love with Lucy.." Gray looked at Natsu and he was sure he is really red due to embarrassment but he chose to remain silent. Maybe because what he was saying is true. He smirked at the thought and proceeded. "..and you know how the company was and there was a deal that made Lucy's future with Natsu in danger so prince Natsu needs our help to save his princess, the castle and their resources so they'll live happily ever after. The end."

Jellal think for it for a minute and then it struck him that it was also the reason why they joined the Band Battle last minute and the contract sining was a day after. He sighed. "Well, I still quite don't get it, but, fine. It looked like she's changed a lot in you. You're going to do something for another person?" He looked at Natsu who looked further away and he swore that he saw his face flare. Jellal chuckled. "That's just.. soo not you before. but guess people change people. So for my friends' future, why not?" Jellal said slipping his feet into his slippers.

Just then.. "ARRRRRRRRRRRGH! BASTARD! What the hell do you think you're doing?!" He heard Gajeel scream at the top of his lungs, which means Natsu succeeded in waking him up. Well, waking up this early isn't really the band's thing. They usually wake up by 10 or maybe 11 in the morning or worst they just sleep all day.

"YOSH! Let's all eat!" Natsu said as he pumped his fists in the air. "After that we jog to wake us all up!"

"I don't think you need that! You're all enthusiastic and stuff." Gray muttered. "Which makes you more annoying than ever."

"Oh yeah?! Just seeing you makes me vomit!"

"Just by seeing you're around makes me sick!"

"Well knowing you're alive makes me want to die!"

"Then die! That way the world would be a cleaner place!"

"Why don't you just put yourself together with your rotting buddies in the trash so the world with be cleaner?"

They head-butted, glaring at each others' eyes.

"You wanna go?!"

"I'll be –"

"ARRRRRRRRRRRRGH! I'm trying to sleep here you two idiots!" Gajeel shouted.

And in another minutes the three of them engaged in a 'what seemed to be a royal rumble' between three elementary students. Jellal sighed. He'll never get use to these kinds of mornings that seemed to have more due to what Natsu called as 'practices slash trainings'.

"Natsu did you wake Levy and Juvia?" The fighting stopped.

They all walked away panting real hard. "You didn't know?" Jellal looked at him slightly confused. "Erza came here late last night, asking for Juvia and Levy to come with her saying they'll go to Lucy's place."

"Lucy's here?" Gray asked. "..already!?"

"Yep." Natsu said smiling like a small child.

Gajeel faked a puke. "Stop that! It's gross."

"What's gross?!" Natsu glared.

"You making those smiley faces like a child!" Natsu tched and looked away.

"I thought Lucy will arrive later?"

"Yeah that's what I thought too. But, I saw her last night. She was with two guys and she stopped our fight."

"Fight?" Jellal asked hastily.

"Hm. Well, I've come across a girl last night and it seemed one of the Board Members, Jiemma, is after her for some reasons." Natsu said nonchalantly.

"Why was he after her?"

"I don't really understand what happen, but that Jiemma said she's an eavesdropping thing.. something like that."

"Did they get her?"

Natsu shook his head from side to side. "Nope. Lucy saved her and they left me."

"Did you fight them?"

"Nah, I really want to but then Lucy came. And then when I was about to go when Lucy left, Jiemma made me stay and told me about that stupid deal." He clenched his fist. And everyone in the room could see how tight his fist was closed.

"Good thing you didn't fight."

Natsu looked at him. "That will be an issue against you idiot!" Gray said.

"Well, let's get this training over with. Lisanna said she wanted to meet me later for the incoming event." He smiled.

They just left it like that but Gajeel felt something bad about it. There is something wrong by the way Natsu narrated the story or rather it was the story that was wrong. What just happen bothered him. He's not really the type of guy to meddle in someone else's business but this was his business too, Fairy Law was included in the whole story. And just who was that girl Natsu met? What did she heard that made a Board Member chase after her? Another was why did that Jiemma guy tell Natsu about the deal? Or rather told him his plans of ruining it. It doesn't really make sense to him, but maybe as days go by things would be clearer and he'll knew what was really happening.

It was today.

The day Lucy Heartfilia, daughter of Jude and Layla Heartfilia and is now the only known legitimate heir of Heartfilia Corporation, will be choosing on whether she'll be on marrying week after she agreed or just let Jiemma take the throne as Heartfilia CEO. Lucy knew that whichever she choose, Jiemma will always be there. In fact, he's already won this game. She's trapped in a situation she doesn't know how to get out of. Lucy hoped Makarov or Bob would be there to help her decide, but she knew they'll be against any of it. But after the will has been read to them, everyone was shocked except for her. For she already knew from the condition Jiemma detailed to her. So whatever she'll choose, Heartfilia Corp will surely have the Eucliffe brand on it and totally replacing the Dragneel's, sooner or later. All she has to do is delay it, and if possible stop it—which she doesn't think is possible. But she'll do everything even if it's her who'll bear the Eucliffe name.

She walked through the corridors of her office building to the office where conferences on TV screens were being held. All her life it's always just been her and some servants with the screens or holograms she's talking to, but today she's not alone. She'll be talking to none other than Heartfilia's CEO, if she chose that choice, Jiemma. Just thinking about talking to him brought shivers on her spine. This time Lucy won't cry. She's getting through a lot of pain recently from her father's death, to the company and to what that kiss with Pinky made her think. Luckily, she's able to talk to Erza, Levy and Juvia. They strengthened her quite indirectly, because no one in her circle of friends really knew about the deal. She just doesn't have the courage to tell them and of course she doesn't want to worry them more. And they ended up talking about her and Natsu after Yukino fell asleep and was picked up by her bodyguards later that night. They still don't know what happened in the fire exit, which Lucy found nice. Because Natsu didn't tell anyone about it. She doesn't really know how to take it though. Something makes her feel like it's a nice thing because he's being a gentleman and he's keeping that moment to himself, but another was saying that he didn't boast it to anyone because it was worthless to him. Nonetheless, Erza, Levy and Juvia's words made her believe for a little. Just a tiny little hope, that maybe, just a very small maybe.. that Natsu might have special feelings for her. And here she was again. She cursed herself for dreaming about that Pinky when instead Natsu Dragneel is the only person she was sure she loved. She must've just interchanged her feelings for them and she's just looking for someone to whom she'll show it or express it. That feeling she felt was a pain in the ass, but at the same time it felt so good and nice. She still doesn't know what it was but she knew she just got to stop it, not just for her, but for everyone's sake.

Her mind was still dazed of her and Natsu's kiss. What could that mean? She could hardly think of a reason. All she wanted to do was hear it, right from his mouth. Why did he kiss her? And after that, now what? She's already considered him as sort of a friend, well after Lisanna's incident he's been he, always there for her even if she doesn't need him, and as time goes by she felt like they were being attracted by some kind of a force pulling them right towards each other. And it scares her. Because she knew, if that unknown feeling—which was whether she is considering him as a best friend, but then again do friends make out? she's also considering the idea that it was infatuation or she's just liking him and loving him is not in the options because Natsu Dragneel claimed that years ago—goes on, she'll get hurt and worse hurt others too in the process. Even so, she wanted to know his side of the story. The kiss and its aftermath to their lives is making her feel nervousness around him.

Now, they're awkward to each other. Well she is to him.

But will she let her decision be affected of what he'll answer? She shivered, closed her eyes and sighed.

It's too late now.

She's already decided. Standing right in front of Jiemma and the rest of the Board in hologram, she could see him right across from her to where her father used to be. His face is plastered of a maniac smile. He's been really happy lately. Who would not? He's getting fortune by just hearing last words from a dying man.

Now, Lucy was wishing she stayed with her father during his last moments or at least it was her Gramps or Uncle to whom he left his last words to. Maybe they could've considered a bit of her. She knew her father; he just wanted someone that'll help her. He just wanted her to be happy again, and he's thinking Lucy's happiness depended on the load of her work in the company or just the free time having someone to depend to will benefit her. She sighed.

She looked at the Board, they all have straight faces except for Makarov and Bob. Bob seemed to be sad, sad for her. And Makarov, he's glaring at Jiemma. He still thinks that he's modified her father's will, but what else could they do? He's the only witness and a lot of nurses were saying that he's there when Lucy's father died. Everything was in place; it's just that her father left his last will to the wrong man.

"So you've decided?" Jiemma leaned over the table resting his head on his fists.

Lucy couldn't even look at him. She could feel the Board's eyes were all on her. Her body was shaking. All she wanted to do was run away, never to look back. But if she does that, it only means that she's giving up the company. She tightened her hold on the papers she was holding.

Placing it on the table right in front of her she stood straight and looked straight into Jiemma's eyes.

"Fine. I'll.. I'll.." She could feel her tears were threatening to fall. "I'll marry your son."

Jiemma chuckled.

"But.. Before everything, I would like you to wait for a couple of months before that happen."

"What for?" He couldn't remove the smile that has formed on his lips.

"I-I-I want to turn 18 or so before we get married. I'm.. I'm too young for that!"

"But being the only heir has the responsibility for those kinds of arrangement, you mu –"

"I agree with the girl!" Makarov said firmly. "She needs more time. A year or so would be nice to recuperate the energy she's lost in the stress she's been. Besides, she just lost her father. Lucy deserves time –"

"And I'm giving he –"

Makarov cut him off. "More time to unwind her mind. She must enjoy that life of a young woman before she goes on to another stage of her life."

"I second his motion." Bob said.

"Yep. Now I could see her eyes were still swollen with black circles around each. Everything was on fast forward for her. We must consider her state of mind and body too." Yajima said.

"And this little brat's just proved to us she can manage the company and with a little more experience she'll be able to run it on her own. Marrying your son was just a plus to her." Porlyusica spoke, which startled everyone.

Lucy was looking at all of them in shock. She never knew more of the Board were supporting her.

"But this is business we're talking about! Not about that girl! She needs to cope with the fast change of events or else she'll pull the company down with her!" Jiemma shouted hitting the table with both his fists.

"That's because she embodies the company." Makarov said.

Porlyusica nodded. "Yes. I believe without her works and efforts, this company would crumble."

"And she's still too young for all of these. We must consider that fact or else everything will fall. Besides, you're here to work for the company too. Right Mr. CEO?" Bob said threateningly while glaring daggers at Jiemma. "It would be nice to give our CEO-in-charge a time to recuperate." He turned to Lucy and smiled.

She still couldn't believe what she was hearing. The offer she gave Jiemma was just a time for her to think of another way that may help her remove Jiemma out of the picture. And the fact that she didn't expect for it to be granted shocked her, with all the support she gets from other Board Members she felt quite relieved.

"Well the more she needed someone to help her." All eyes revert to the source of the voice. A man about 30s with a moustache and his long hair pulled back spoke. "I can see you're all looking after her. But what about the company. It's true that Miss Heartfilia embodies the whole company, but we have a new CEO. We all know that. Even if he's just a temporary CEO he only sees to it that the company should be our first priority and I think that our smart.." He said emphasizing the word as he looked at Lucy. "..Miss Heartfilia knew what's best for the company."

Lucy was taken aback. Everyone was.

Jiemma smiled. He doesn't really have any connection with him but right now, that guy's beliefs and importance for the company was helping him. "Mr. Porla has a point. It was the company we're talking about. So why don't we just let Miss Heartfilia decide on her own? Tell us what comes first. What will be the company's priority?"

Lucy's body shook. She could feel her sweat running down her face. She inhaled a deep one.

"Think for what's best for the company." Jiemma pushed.

"Lucy.." Makarov said softly. "It's for you too. We'll support you."

And now she's torn. A while ago, she just thought the Board was agreeing to her. She just tried to offer a bargain and never thought it would be granted and the moment it was to be granted she could feel happiness well up inside her. But it all flushed out off her when what Porla said struck her. He's actually right. But if that happens, she might have scarcity in time to try and do something regarding the will. She knew she's capable of handling the company and she knew some Board Members would be there to help her if anything.

It's like if she chose to postpone the marriage, then she's looking after herself and the future of the company which doesn't give a guaranteed success. But if she chose otherwise, she'll be looking after the company's present situation that she knew will surely help. She needs more time but..

"I've decided.."

Everyone looked up at her.

"..two weeks. Give me two weeks to.." She looked down. "..prepare for the wedding." It tasted like putrid acid in her mouth.

Erza doesn't really get it but the smiles Lucy was showing them the night before. She knew something was off. She knew there's something that Lucy's hiding. It's just that, what is it? She knew Lucy trusts her more than anyone, but right now she kind of doubts it. Yet again, knowing Lucy, she knew she has reasons.

She's walking in the Heartfilia's office knowing Lucy was at the conference hall having a meeting with the other Board Members. It's been a while since she's last been at the office. Erza placed a cup of Lucy's favourite coffee on her table and waited for her. Lucy firmly asked her not to go with her so she's here waiting.

Ring Ring Ring

She looked at her phone and she smiled.

"Hey!" She answered in a sweet tone.

"Hi Erz! Well, where were you?"

Her eyes narrowed. "Didn't we talk about th –"

"Yeah. Yeah. That we have forever to know where we are and that we're always together when we get married. So, we don't have to be strict as to where the other is. We've talked about that. But is it bad to show I care?"

Erza blushed. She was just surprised Jellal would say it nonchalantly.

"I was just wondering where you are? Is that bad?"

"N-No. I'm in the office."

"You're with Lucy?"

"Yep."

"Hm. The band was thinking about going out of town for the two weeks we don't have any shows scheduled for the Band Battle."

"Aren't you taking the concert with The Sabers next week or is it week after..? Ugh. Never mind."

Jellal chuckled. "Well, Natsu was the only one invited." He said lazily.

Erza rolled her eyed. "Oh yes. I remember that girl was part of The Sabers. So is he going?"

"I don't really know. Seems like he has a lot of guestings with Lisanna because of the last event. You know showbiz industry, 'couple confirmation' and stuff."

"Interviews?"

"Yeah sort of. He's been enjoying his time with her though. He said he missed her so much."

Erza's hold on her phone tightened. "So he's sailing on two rivers now?"

"Nah. I don't think so. He doesn't give a damn about any issues. All he was up to was the friend's company she's giving him. Oh yeah, Natsu woke us up early this morning to jo –"

"And what does that have to do with this?"

"Let me finish. Okay?" Jellal just doesn't want an argument with her. Just not right now. When she doesn't speak he continued. "He woke us up to have a practice. Practice for the whole band. Could you believe that? He's actually the one initiating a practice."

"Practice for what?"

"For the Band Battle." Erza was confused. "Well he was worried about Lucy.. He said last night he saw her while he was with a girl and she saved the girl and when they left him a Board member talked to him."

"Board Member? Who was it?"

"I don't really get the name. But I think Jiemma? Not sure though. Anyway, he threatened Natsu of destroying the Band Battle so Lucy will lose the deal."

"What deal?"

Jellal was surprised. "You didn't know Lucy has some sort of deal?" She didn't answer. "Well, I don't really know what the deal is about but all I get is that the outcome of the Band Battle will be deciding on whether the company will be handed to Lucy or not."

Erza clenched her fist. "Then practice! Make every show a success." She commanded. "Tell Juvia to make all preparation grandiose. Failure is not an option!"

"Yeah, we're on it. Natsu also asked for the other band's cooperation and they all took it as a challenge. So I guess every performance would be something to wait for."

She sighed. "That's a relief. So that's Lucy's problem. Well now, she doesn't have to worry about it. Juvia's helping in the preps of things needed so double your effort manager."

"Yeeeeeah. I know that. And I didn't call you just to tell you that."

She waited.

"I bought tickets, for an out of town relaxation."

"No. I'll stay with Lucy."

"Actually, it was Levy and Juvia's idea. They said Lucy needs diversion plus we can practice there. After her father's death Lucy's been under a lot of stress so they're thinking that it would be great."

Erza thought of it for a mome – "Okay. We're coming. When are we going to go?"

"Hm. Tomorrow."

"What?! That fast."

"Well, I've already booked the tickets."

"Okay. Okay. I'll tell that to Lucy. Just make sure we don't have extra annoying baggage so we won't be having any problem like last time in the hot springs."

"We don't have. Don't worry." She could hear Jellal chuckle from the other line.

"Good. Well I have to go. Lucy might be here any minute now."

"I love you." Jellal whispered not hoping that Erza heard it because she's always been the first to turn the phone off and most of the time Jellal was saying I love yous to beeping soun –

"I love you too."

Erza was blushing madly as she put her phone away from her ear and put it on top of her desk while still looking at it. She's not really used to saying those kinds of things and she's happy Jellal understands her. Well she just tried today and she hoped it was good enough.

Suddenly she saw a blur of yellow walking. She immediately walked to her office and grabbed her hand.

"Oh. Erza?" Lucy turned around surprised.

"No time for this. You're coming with me."