Waking up in the morning, Lucy felt extremely tired. Her body ached and her face had a puffiness to it that it made her look blown up. She didn't recognize the place, making her face twist in emotions as she sat up. The previous night made its way inside of her mind as she moaned out, covering her face to shake her head in denial. Then she remembered who brought her there and she quickly got out of bed, making her way to the bathroom to splash cold water on her face to give herself a quick pep talk.

She slowly made her way to the door, hands shaking as she thought about the pink-haired menace. She opened the door to see an empty room, seeing how the blanket was messily sprawled out on the couch and the town full of life as she could see from the window.

She stepped out into the warm wooden floors, seeing how they were heated just like the ones she had at home as she ventured further into the room. She then noticed the pink-haired student, sprawled out on the floor as his right arm tangled behind himself, legs crossed over each other.

It made her stare at him for a moment as she smiled to herself, finding herself giggling as she approached him to take a better look at him.

Seeing him up close and personal made her understand why girls flocked to him. He had a look to him that was irresistible, hard features on a soft face where his pink hair suited his tan sun-kissed skin that glowed under the sun's appearance. He had a couple faint scars on his neck to his cheek, which she now noticed as she crouched down to watch his sleeping face. She slowly reached for his face, wanting to feel the warmth of his skin and touch the scar but stopped mid-way when his eyes began to open.

It made her freeze as she gasped, dark onyx orbs meeting hers as her face grew hot. He suddenly sat up making her lose her balance, falling on her behind as he began to rub his eyes.

"Lucy?" His morning voice croaked, sleep laced in between his words. "What are you doing?"

"N—nothing," she sputtered, scooting backwards to create space between them. "I… I was just trying to get something o—off your face." She lied as Natsu blinked away his sleep. He turned to look around where he was and then looked back at the flushed blonde.

"U—um," she gathered herself up to stand up, dusting off the oversized t-shirt of his she wore. "I just… I want to properly thank you for last night." She fidgeted in her spot, feeling shy as she touched the tips of her fingers together. "I… I also want to apologize for being so harsh at the cafe. I didn't mean for it to come out like that."

Natsu just stood up, stretching his body as his bones cracked. He reached for the sky as his shirt ran up his torso, flashing his lean abs that Lucy stared at a little too long.

She turned her head away in embarrassment as she waited for his response.

"Not a big deal." Was all he said as he made his way to the kitchen, watching how he grabbed a glass from a cabinet to fill it with water from the sink.

It made her frown slightly as he nonchalantly drank and walked around, disappearing into another room where she assumed was the bathroom as she could hear the flush of the toilet and the running water.

She waited for his return as she folded up the blanket that laid out on the couch, carefully placing it on the end of the couch as Natsu returned.

"Um," she got his attention, again. "How could I pay you back?"

Natsu just snorted, coming back to the couch where she was as he sat on the folded up blanket. It made her frown at his action as he yawned out loud. "What? You feel like ya owe me now?" He snickered. He hummed as he rubbed his chin, thinking about an answer. "How about a kiss?"

"What?" She almost spat out, face growing red.

Natsu just cackled, throwing his head back as the blonde blushed furiously.

"Got ya," he pointed his finger at her, making a finger gun. "You're so gullible."

Lucy only pouted as she crossed her arms across her chest, looking away in awkwardness as she tried to steady her beating heart.

"Like I said, it's not a big deal. Helping a damsel in distress is what I do," he shrugged. "And you just happened to be one."

"Is this what you say to all the girls you bring back here?"

"Maybe," he shrugged again as he kicked his feet up on the coffee table. "Can't give away all my secrets like that. We're not friends, remember?"

Lucy puffed her cheeks out in annoyance as she looked at the grinning male with daggers. "I—I told you it wasn't like that!"

"Nah," he waved his hand out. "I don't want to be your friend."

Lucy frowned at this as heard his words echo inside her head. She squeezed her eyes shut and turned her face away, feeling the sting of rejection piercing her heart as she looked back up to see Natsu standing. He walked over towards her and it made her flinch, taking a step back as she felt his warmth and smelt his smell.

"So, what are you going to do?"

"What do you mean?"

"Your fiancé," he said, making her wince at the sound of it. "Don't you think you should call someone?"

"Why should I?" She huffed, turning her head to look away, again. "It's not like he cares about my wellbeing."

"Well, that's where you're wrong," he laughed as he pulled his phone out. "Word is, everyone is out and about looking for the missing Heartfillia."

"How would you know that?"

"Did you forget?" He put his phone out to show her the messages from his father. "Our dads work together."

Lucy furrowed her brows as she took the phone from him, reading the frantic messages that came from Igneel that were spilled into the shared group chat. Jude had sent out a message to the Dragneel's inquiring help about locating his precious daughter that had run out the night before. It made her face twist in uneasiness as she realized there are people out there hunting for her.

She handed the phone back to the taller male and sighed, covering her face with her hands as she groaned out. "Great. Now I have your family hunting me like a hog."

"Your dad is probably just worried—"

"You don't know anything about me." Lucy was quick to snap, making him stop. "Didn't you say? We're not friends."

"Ouch," he took a step back from the angry blonde. "I was just sayin'."

"You don't know me! Yesterday was the first time we've ever even spoken to each other."

Natsu raised his arms up, telling her silently that he surrendered as he made his way back to the couch, sitting on it to grab the remote on the table. He kicked his feet back up on the table as he turned the device on, flicking through channels as he rested against the sofa.

This made Lucy angrier as she felt her blood boil, seeing how nonchalant this boy truly was to anything he was told.

"Really? Is that it?"

"What?" He sounded uninterested.

"Honestly," she scoffed, planting her hands on her hips. "I don't understand what they see in you."

"What's that supposed to mean?" He turned his head to look at the blonde, eyebrows knitted together. "Did you forget where you are and who saved you yesterday?"

"I just don't get you! You act like we're friends and then say we're not and don't want to be but you're over here playing Prince Charming saying you like to save damsels in distress—what is your deal?"

Natsu scoffed as he stood up again, coming over to the blonde who stood her ground. He kept coming closer and closer to her making her take steps back, bumping into the kitchen counter as he leaned in close. "Stop acting like you don't know me," he leaned in, making her reel her head back in shock. He smirked at her as he had her pinned. "We both know damn well who our families are. I know more about you than you think, Lucy Heartfillia."

Lucy felt a shiver run down his spine as he cornered her, sweat outlining her hairline as she swallowed thickly.

"And don't ever compare me to some pansy-ass Prince Charming." He scoffed, grabbing her chin to lock eyes with him. "I could have left your ass out there."

"Then why didn't you?" She countered. She heard a low growl come from him as he pulled back, staring her down like she was his prey. "Why didn't you?" She repeated, challenging him as he stayed silent. "Why didn't you?!" She took a swing at him, making him snatch her wrist in his palm.

"Look," he hissed as he held her wrists tight, leaning in close again as she angrily pushed back. "If you're lookin' for a fight, it ain't with me."

Lucy tried to brush him off but he was much stronger, grabbing her thrashing body to pin her to the counter as she cried out. He held her wrists with one hand as he snickered at her vulnerable state. "Let go!"

"You can't challenge someone like me," He chuckled, pressing his body against her as he pressed his knee against her legs that were trying to nudge him out. He leaned in and whispered in her ear making another shiver run down her body as his hot breath tickled her ear. "So be a good girl and listen."

Lucy felt herself quiver as she felt the air run up her bare legs. "Fuck you, Dragneel!"

"You just say the word and I will," his breath brushed against her neck. A shiver ran down her spine as her face grew hot, looking up at the dominating male who held her down. It made her heart race inside of her chest as she trembled against his bigger build, body tingling in desire. "I've always wondered what kind of sounds you made." He said as he stuck his tongue out, licking her from her shoulder up her neck. She whimpered out as she felt his hot wet tongue run up her neck, goosebumps trailing on her body as her nipples perked up in excitement. He eventually let her go, taking a step back as she regained her posture. She felt exposed as she hugged herself, looking at the male who was smirking at her, his eyes trailing up her body in hunger.

"I—I'm not like those girls you bring home and can just take advantage of." She quivered, unsure how to handle the new emotion of desire and vulnerability that pooled in the pits of her stomach. "I'm not like that."

"Who ever said you were?"

"You're implying it,"

"I didn't imply anything," he crossed his arms, a playful smile on his lips."I just told you up front how it is."

"I'm not going to be another girl on your roaster," she hissed, tears brimming in her eyes. "You're a fucking pig."

Natsu watched how she turned and stomped towards his bedroom, seeing how she slammed the door shut making him roll his eyes. He waited a couple minutes before he sighed, making his way towards the room to open the door. He saw how she was on his bed, balled up as she stared out the window. Her tiny body was trembling as she ignored him, her hand coming up so often to wipe her tears away.

"Fuck off."

"I was just kidding," he said, walking over towards the end of the bed. "I didn't mean to make you upset."

"Is that what girls are to you?"

"What?"

"Just damsels in distress you can swoop off their feet when they're most vulnerable and then bring them home and fuck them senseless? Is this what this is? You save me so you can come between my legs?" She turned to face him, anger flashing across her face as he frowned. "Just because you're doing me a favor doesn't mean I'm going to throw myself at you."

"Nobody is expecting you to," he planted his hands on his hips. "You're taking this too personally. I told you, I was just helping you out because you needed some. I'm not expecting anything from you nor was I implying you were."

"It doesn't matter anyways," Lucy sighed, wiping the remaining tears she had on her face. "Once your family finds me and I go back to my dad I'm dead."

"You're being dramatic—"

"I thought you said you knew more about me," she cut him off as he shut his mouth. "You know damn well what kind of people our dads do business with."

Silence sliced through the two as the sounds of the outside world were the only things making sound. It made Natsu awkwardly shift from one foot to another as he scratched the backside of his head. He didn't know how to respond as the small woman on his bed cried, feeling awkward and uncomfortable at the situation. He just sat down and sighed, facing the woman who messily wiped her tears away.

"I can talk to my dad. I'll have you returned home in one piece and make sure things will be fine."

Sniffling, Lucy looked at the male who offered her a reassuring smile. In some way, she had a feeling she could trust him making her flush slightly.

"I—I don't need your help."

"Regardless of if you want it or not, I think you might need it, class pres."

Lucy could only pout as she looked away from the delinquent, arms crossed as she tried looking everywhere else. She could feel his burning gaze on her and she heard him stand up, the bed creaking underneath as he pulled his phone out.

"I'll be right back." He flashed her his phone in his hand before he stepped out.

This gave Lucy time to sit on her own as she pulled her knees up to her chest, a frown deepening on her beautiful face. All sorts of thoughts swirled inside of her head as she thought about the best solution including her own escape. Could she do it on her own? Who could she go to? Did her father truly want her to be a part of this business or is this her being a part of it?

Lucy could only frown and run her hands through her golden locks as she put herself through yet another round of emotions, her chest feeling tight. She didn't even have a chance to grab anything before she ran out. She had no phone, no wallet, no shoes, no clothes… she had nothing to her name. Her friends were probably worried about her including all her maids.

But her father? Now that made her laugh. He was probably hunting her down so he could strangle her and force her into a marriage with some guy!

Looking up to see Natsu coming back into the room, he gave her a smug expression.

"Coast is clear."

"Huh?"

"I called my dad and told him the situation. He's going to buy us some time so you're coming with me." He jabbed his thumb towards his chest making her blink in confusion. "Come on! Get dressed!"

"D—dressed? I don't have anything—"

"Oh, right," he slapped his hand against his forehead as he groaned. "Uh… let me call someone." He raised his finger up at her again as she watched in confusion. "Hey, it's me. Yeah… I need some clothes delivered to my house with some shoes. The whole shabang." He paused as he waited for the person behind the other line to speak. He pulled the phone away to look back at her. "Uh, what size are you?"

Lucy felt herself grow red again as she scowled, a small pout forming on her lips. "U—um…"

"Never mind," Natsu sighed. "Just bring a dress. Size small…" he trailed his eyes back at the blonde. "And some shoes. I also need a large sun hat and sunglasses."

Lucy could only twist her face up in confusion as she watched Natsu put his phone back in his pocket, a sigh flying out his lips as he looked back at her. "Why are you doing this?"

"How many times are you going to ask?" He rolled his eyes, making her frown, again.

"Until you answer the question."

"Why can't I just help you out from the kindness of my heart?" He placed his hands against his chest, looking at her with fake hurt. "I told you, saving damsels in distress is kind of my thing."

Lucy could only roll her eyes as he grinned at her.

Somehow, she felt grateful to have run into Natsu. Maybe he wasn't such a bad guy.

.

.

.

Feeling how her hair flew behind her in a fury, Lucy could only hold onto her hat on top of her head as the couple flew down the road. Natsu was delivered not only clothes for her but one of his expensive exotic sports cars without the hood. She could only gawk at such a luxurious item that her father never worried himself with as he was not much of a materialistic person. But from the looks of it, the Dragneel's were a different type of rich as they indulge themselves in luxurious transportation as Natsu gave her a devious grin before they hopped into the car.

Now, here she was, going over eighty miles per hour on the highway to God knows where as Natsu sped down the roads of Magnolia.

She wasn't sure where he was taking her but her eyes were glued on the scenic view as they drove around the edges of the road, the beach waves splashing violently against the rocky core.

The expensive leather under her heated her in more ways than one as the cold air nipped at her skin. Pink dusted her nose and cheeks as she looked over to see Natsu having a face splitting grin on his face, concentration and a carefree expression mirroring his handsome features.

She couldn't get her eyes off of him as she felt her heart throb inside her chest, seeing how his pink hair flopped in the wind and how he looked like he was having the time of his life.

Coming down to town, Natsu was forced to slow the car down as they drove down the streets of some town she wasn't familiar with. It looked super cozy and small as the townspeople walked around comfortably. The ocean on the edge made splashes every so often and a lick of saltwater would come by as the seagulls screamed for attention above.

She felt enchanted by the town as Natsu eventually pulled into a parking lot, shifting the gear into park as he turned to look at the blonde next to him.

"How was that?" He flashed a grin at her, making her smile back. "Pretty fast, huh?"

"I've never ridden in such a nice, fast car before."

"Really?" He looked surprised as he put on some shades. "You dad doesn't like cars?"

"He's more into real estate." She smiled back as she watched Natsu put on a baseball cap backwards. Some of his pink hair stuck out of the hole as he pulled the keys out of the engine. "So, where are we and what are we doing here?"

"This is my family's villa." He said as he started to get out of the car. Lucy followed suit as she felt her eyes widened, looking around in awe at the crystal clear water and beautiful town. There were small shops here and there and lots of local people who looked like they were hired to be an actress. "We own about seventy five percent of the land here but this right here," he pointed to the large home on top of the hill. "That's our villa. I just need to grab some things before we go in." He flashed another grin as he swung his keys on his finger.

Lucy followed him towards a small shop, looking around in curiosity as Natsu greeted the person inside.

"Yo!" He offered a wave as an older-looking man with two sections of gray hair that protrude from either side of his head smiled brightly.

"Natsu!" He greeted cheerfully. "So great to see you, again. You've grown so much!"

"Aw, thanks gramps!" Natsu grinned bashfully, rubbing the back of his neck. "This is Lucy."

"Hello there," Lucy offered a smile as she bowed respectfully. "Such a beautiful shop."

"My, such an elegant woman you have brought, Natsu," he cooed as he rounded the corner to bow right back. "I recognize you from the papers. Daughter of Jude Heartfillia?"

Lucy could only flush as she exchanged an uneasy glance at Natsu who just nodded back.

"Y—yes, pleasure is all mine."

"Oh, to be graced by Natsu and Miss Heartfilia," he sighed lovingly. "What can I do for a couple of lovebirds?"

Lucy's face grew red as her eyes widened, looking over at Natsu who was just snickering.

"W—we're not a couple!" She stuttered, waving her hands in front of her as the shopkeeper gawked.

"Oh, my apologies!" He sputtered, hand over his mouth. "W—what can I do for Natsu and his friend?"

"We ain't friends either," Natsu cackled, making the shop owner blink in confusion. Natsu could only laugh as he wrapped an arm around the shoulder of the blonde, Lucy crying out in confusion as the weight pulled her down slightly. "We're just in town. I need some sunscreen and snacks before we head in, you mind?"

"O—of course not!" He scrambled to run behind the counter, again, digging underneath to present him with a packet. "I have this in stock—this just came in which when you toss into the fire, it gives the magic of showing you your fate." He cooed, trying to impress the couple. Natsu just stared at him with a deadpan expression, his eyebrows knitted together.

"I don't know, it kind of sounds—"

"—really cool!" Lucy finished for him, her eyes gleaming slightly.

Natsu looked at her in confusion as the blonde was leaning against the counter, eyes wide and sparkling as the shopkeeper smiled.

"How does it work?"

"Well, they say when the moon is full and the fire burns hot, you toss this bag into the fire and wait for the vision to come alive. It also produces colored fire so there's a small twist to it!" He grinned, making Lucy gasp as she reached for the pouch in his hands.

"We'll take it!"

"What? Lucy, you can't be serious." Natsu groaned, looking at the blonde who whipped her head over to look at him. "Are you seriously believing this crap?"

"Natsu, pay the man." She said before she walked away, happily pocketing the pouch making Natsu roll his eyes and look at the shopkeeper who chuckled.

"Oh, no, free of charge Mr. Dragneel," he waved his hand in the air. "After all, it's for your fateful encounter."

Natsu just eyed him weirdly as he slowly put his wallet back into his pocket. "Alright…" he said as he cleared his throat. "Anyways, I'm going to need some firewood and snacks for the house. And sunscreen. I'll probably be here for a couple days at most so I just want to be prepared."

"Of course," he cooed once more as he reached under the counter and behind to gather some items he may need. "Please feel free to grab whichever bag of firewood that lays outside."

"Thanks, gramps," Natsu laid a couple bills on the counter and grabbed the plastic bag from the counter. "I'll see you again, soon!" Natsu offered a wave and a smile as he saluted him goodbye. He nudged Lucy who was busy looking at keychains to signal her to follow him making her say her goodbyes before following him out the door. They were back in his convertible as Natsu tossed in a bag of firewood in the truck, starting the car for it to roar loudly as the engine started. Natsu soon pulled out to follow a road, coming to a gravel road that was blocked off by a golden gate.

Lucy watched as the gates opened slowly, the large doors creaking open as her driver drove up the hill. She looked around as she saw the foliage, humming in her thoughts as she wondered why the place looked somewhat familiar to her in a way. Maybe it was her imagining her own beach house down east, seeing how every villa seemed to be hidden away up on the hill with trees for privacy.

"So, what are we doing here?" Lucy asked as she took her hat off her head to place it on her lap.

"It's spring break," Natsu responded as he rounded a large driveway. "I figured we could hide out here. Nobody should bother us here."

"Huh?" Lucy's eyes widened looking at the pink-haired male who smirked. "You kidnapped me to this place? What about my dad and—and the manhunt?"

"Kidnapped?" Natsu placed a hand on his chest as he looked at her in fake pain. He pulled the car up to the front of the home and parked the car, turning to look at the flushed blonde. "You willingly came with me first of all."

"I—I didn't know you were going to bring me to bumfuck!"

"This isn't bumfuck," he put his fingers to her face. "This is Akane Beach and my family's villa. I didn't kidnap you in some beat up old van and chain you to the basement somewhere down south. You willingly came with me and even asked me to buy you that stupid ass fake pouch of whatever he called it." Natsu waved his hands around, rolling his eyes again as Lucy gawked. "And second of all, I told you my dad bought us some time so while you and your dad collect your thoughts and think about your unholy decisions," Lucy scrunched her face up at him. "It is still spring break and I refuse to waste it on this."

"Oh, so I'm a waste of time, now?"

"Geez," Natsu rolled his eyes again, stepping out the car as Lucy crossed her arms pouting. "You really do like picking a fight, don't you?"

"You said it!"

"I said I'm not wasting my spring break on this."

"That is literally the same thing."

"Just shut up and get out the fucking car," Natsu grabbed the firewood out from the trunk. He slammed the trunk shut as Lucy got out of her seat, grumbling indecent remarks under her breath while she followed Natsu to the large home. "I invited some friends over tonight. Figured we could have some fun."

"Your friends?" Lucy scrunched her face up again making him shoot her a look.

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"I don't know, your friends aren't really my cup of tea…"

"Oh, right," he snorted, rolling his eyes as he unlocked the front door. "I forgot that you're boring."

"I—I am not!" Lucy cried out as they entered the home. She was quick to stop talking as she walked into the large foyer, eyes wide as she stared up at the ceiling where a large chandelier hung with the painting of baby angels playing violin splattered on the ceiling. She could see some renaissance paintings hanging on the walls as well as soft blue painted walls with beautiful vintage vases. A large staircase at the end of the room split off into the left and right wing as the marble pillars held up the magnificent home. She felt like she was back in time in such a comfortable setting where she felt… at home.

"This place is beautiful," she murmured while walking down to look up at the paintings. "Your parents are fond of the renaissance period?"

"Mom is," Natsu said as he began walking towards a large doorway on the left side of the home. "Come on." He jerked his head to the left indicating for her to follow. "This is where the kitchen is," he brought her into the open room with floor to ceiling windows. There was a large island in the middle of the room, white marble polished clean as the sage green drawers and gold hardware stuck out to her the most.

"Wow, I love the detail of the place."

Natsu only smirked as he set down the bag on the counter, bringing her over to the French doors in the back. He unlocked the door to open it, the cool ocean breeze flying in as they walked out to the open backyard. Lucy was in awe as she followed him down the stone path, seeing how flowers and large trees towered over them to give the house privacy. There was a built-in firepit in the corner with chairs surrounding it and a pool that was closed for the season as a cover laid on top of it. A white gazebo was attached to the home as she noticed they were walking towards the edge of the cliff. She walked over to see a barrier was built, to ensure nobody would fall to their death as the crash of the waves splashed into the side of the cliff. It made her swallow nervously as she reeled away to see the town she was in earlier, down the hill, that looked much smaller than before. She turned to look at Natsu who was watching her, a soft expression on his face as she flushed at his eyes.

"This is a beautiful place."

"Yeah, I used to come here a lot when I was kid." He looked away to look far out into the waters. "We stopped coming here when I was around five or six years old."

"Why is that?"

"We moved away," Natsu said in a hush, making Lucy watch him with a slight frown. "But that's all in the past." He flashed a grin her way, making her eyes widen slightly as she looked away, flustered. "Come on, let me show you the rest of the house." He turned to start walking away.

This made Lucy watch his retreating figure as she twisted her lips in thoughts, slowly following him as she wondered if this would be good for her. Natsu and her never spoke a word to each other until yesterday and now she was at his family villa a couple hours away and spending the night, again. She wondered how her father was reacting and what his dad said or did to buy them time as she followed Natsu around the rather large, empty home. Maybe Natsu really wasn't so bad… he was taking care of her in a way she never thought he would and he was so kind.

But his words rang in her ear as they walked together.

"I don't want to be your friend."

What does that even mean?

"This is your room," Natsu said, snapping her out of her thoughts. She looked around to see a large room with a high ceiling, a queen mattress pressed against the left side of the room while a large vanity pressed against the right side of the room. She had French doors that led out to a balcony that also included a walk-in closet and a full bathroom for her own leisure. "I'm right next door," he pointed his finger down the hall. "So, if you need anything, let me know. My friends should be here when the sun goes down so you can freshen up."

"Wait," Lucy called for him as he turned to leave. He cocked his head towards her as she flushed, again. "Um, I don't have any clothes or…"

"Check your dresser," he waved his hand above his head as he started to leave again. "I'm going to go shower."

Lucy watched as he left, closing her door behind him as she now stood all alone in the spacious room. Something she was used to, indeed, but it somehow felt… different. She walked over to where the bed was, sitting down on the edge of the bed as she took in the room. There was definitely a gap of where she could notice the older sense of fashion and decoration as she could see the lace and frill on the bed sheets. She noticed a stuffed animal sitting on the bed where it looked like a white snowman dog, a soft fond smile coming to her lips as she held it. "I used to have one of these," she whispered to herself as she sighed heavily.

She soon got up to walk over to the dresser, looking to see it was fully stocked with clothes from t-shirts to pajamas to socks and underwear. It made her flush red as she wondered who bought these as she held up a pair of red laced panties, her heart racing inside of her chest as she noticed it was her size!

Shaking her head in embarrassment and denial, Lucy went over to where the French doors were to open it, the fresh ocean breeze coming into her room as the curtains danced behind her. She walked out to see she was facing the backyard, her eyes trailing against the rather large land as she sighed, again. The sun began to go down as the world became orange and pink, the beautiful hues painting the world bright.

Lucy took a deep breath in before she walked back inside, walking over to her own bathroom as she flicked the light on. She noticed it had fresh fluffy towels hanging from the rack with shampoo and soaps lined up on the counter. Make-up wipes, Q-tips, lotion, razors, essential oils, and all sorts of things were there for her convenience and she was even surprised to see perfume laying out. There was a large clawfoot tub in the center of the bathroom with a stand in shower next to it.

Stripping off her dress she had on, Lucy began to run the water in the tub as she sat on the edge of the tub, feeling the water warm up under her hand. She put a couple of drops of essential oil into the water along with some bubble bath soap, seeing how the tub filled up. She tied her hair up on top of her golden head, a tight messy bun perched on top like a crown. She slowly eased herself into the tub as she moaned in delight, feeling the warmth wrap her up as if it was a pair of arms.

She watched how the water poured into the tub, the soap and bubbles rising with it as she was swallowed in a tub of bubbles. She could only smile as she played around with the foam, feeling relaxed for once as she thought about her last couple days.

Who would have thought she would be in Natsu Dragneel's family's villa for spring break? And who would have thought she would be actually enjoying herself. She felt weird about this whole thing but for some reason, she felt comfortable around Natsu. She felt like deep down, she could maybe trust him.

Remembering how Natsu had her pinned to the counter this morning and he licked her neck, Lucy grew red again as a shiver ran down her spine. She felt her nipples perk up and she squirmed, subconsciously rubbing her knees together as she felt the throb of her heart.

She couldn't lie and say Natsu wasn't good looking… he was a very attractive teenage male. He had the looks, body, and personality for his reputation and not to mention he was loaded. Who wouldn't want to date someone like that? But… all that didn't mean much to her since he was a troublemaker who barely passed his classes. He didn't have any ambition towards studies and he and his friends caused so many problems by fighting and skipping class.

Lucy only sank deeper into her bath as she felt the blush crawl up her neck, blowing bubbles into the tub as she grumbled. She couldn't get him out of her mind! How come he was so nice to her and why did he have to butt into her life like this?

She wonders if he never ended up seeing her and helping out, would she have gone back home? Ran away? Lived in the streets?

Tears brimmed in the corner of her eyes, again, as she sighed heavily, feeling the guilt and sadness pierce her heart as she thought about her father and her friends. She missed her maids and drivers as well as they always took such good care of her, her bottom lip getting caught in between her teeth as she wished for a better chance at life.

Finishing up her bath as she realized her water started to grow cold, Lucy hopped into the shower to wash her hair and body, the sweet scent of strawberries and vanilla seeping into her skin. She took some time to lather and clean herself up as she patted herself dry, the white fluffy towel wrapped around her soft clean body as she dug in her dresser full of clothes. She pulled her towel off to pull on the same red laced panties she had found earlier, a small smile pulling on her lips as she checked herself out in the mirror. She pulled out a loose sweater and a skirt, pulling up some leg warmers as she scrunched the bottom up by her ankles. She slipped on a pair of fur boots she found in her closet and she threw her long golden hair up in a ponytail, a wide smile on her face as she twirled around in her closet. She had just lotioned her body up and sprayed on the perfume she found in the bathroom and felt amazing as she left the comfort of her room, finding her way back downstairs to find Natsu as she hummed to herself.

The sun had gone down, now as the whole house was lit up with lights. She was left wandering as she finally found a pair of stairs, coming down one step at a time as she heard voices down below. It made her feel slightly nervous as she came down the stairs, coming down the hall to where she remembered was the kitchen. When she stepped in, she was greeted by silence as everyone grew hush to stare at her.

Lucy grew red as she recognized some of the faces of Natsu's friends.

Gray Fullbuster. Gajeel Redfox. Elfman Strauss.

Offering a shy smile as she waved hello. "G—good afternoon," she muttered out as Natsu stepped forward.

"Hey, you guys know Class Pres from school," he grinned cheekily as he placed a hand on her shoulder. It made her flinch as she felt his large warm hand, the blonde looking away bashfully. "She'll be joining us."

"Class Pres?"

"Since when did Natsu and Lucy start hanging out?"

"They're probably fucking."

Lucy only grew redder as she overheard their whispers of confusion, the blonde whipping her head to look at Natsu for help as he chuckled.

"Relax, guys," he caught their attention, again. "Class pres here is just here hiding out from her dad. Nothing going on here."

"Stop calling me that," Lucy hissed out as he threw his arm on her shoulder, again. This made her gasp as he jerked her body close, a wide grin on his face.

"So, let's party!" He threw his arm up making the boys roar out with him. "Bring on the booze! Come on!" Natsu grabbed her arm to jerk her towards the island where the others sat and stood around.

Lucy offered a shy hello as she sat down at the counter, sitting awkwardly as they began to crack open beers and bottles.

Gray was the first to come over, handing her an open beer bottle as he offered a small smile. "How are you doing, class Pres?"

"Lucy," she cleared her throat. "You can call me Lucy."

"Lucy." Her name rolled off his tongue. "So, what brings you here?"

"Well, it's kind of a long pathetic story," she laughed bashfully as she pressed the bottle to her lip. "To cut it short… I kind of just ran away from home and Natsu happened to find me, first." She pursed her lips as Gray nodded, taking a swig of his drink.

"Typical rich kid troubles." Lucy quirked a brow at him, making him laugh, shaking his hands in front of him. "I don't mean it that way." He smiled sheepishly. "I've had my fair share of kids running away from home."

Lucy only nodded, a soft smile coming to her lips as she leaned against the counter. "So, what's your story?"

"My story?" He echoed as he paused, holding the beer bottle in front of his lips before he took another swig. "I mean, nothing crazy. The Princess and I over there go way back," he nudged his head over to where Natsu was. He was picking a fight with Elfman, a wide smirk on his face as he challenged the much bigger man to an arm wrestling contest as Gajeel shouted he could beat them all. "We're childhood friends. Natsu always came back and left periodically because of what his family does so we lost touch for a couple years but he came back and we reconnected."

Lucy nodded as she listened to his story, her eyes trailing to land on the pink-haired student who was trembling on the table trying to push down Elfman's arm. Lucy only took a deep breath in to exhale loudly, a soft smile on her lips.

"What's on your mind?"

"Hey… so… does Natsu do this a lot?"

"Do what?"

"Like… save runaways like me or something?" She laughed awkwardly. "He said he likes saving damsels in distress."

It was Gray's turn to laugh as he held onto his gut, body vibrating like a phone call. "He said that?"

Lucy flushed as she felt embarrassed, wondering if she said something wrong as he watched Gray wipe a tear away from his eye.

"That idiot… no, he's a fucking liar. Probably some scheme to get into your pants or something." He wiped another tear away. "Or maybe he just likes you." Gray shrugged, sipping on his drink casually as Lucy grew red. "He has his moments and is very giving when he wants to be but he's also a fucking dimwit."

"Well, I knew that," Lucy giggled as Gray flashed her a smile.

"I don't know," the dark-haired male shrugged. "I wouldn't look too deep into his gesture. Don't your families know each other?" He raised a brow at her, making her slowly nod.

"Yeah, they do business together."

Gray silently nodded as his eyes were fixed on the arm wrestling match where Elfman slammed Natsu into the table, shouts of anger and frustration filling the air as Natsu shrieked about a rematch.

"Like I said," he looked over to the blonde. "Don't think too deeply into it. Just… go with it." He offered another smile her way making Lucy look at him with a face of surprise. Her eyes slowly trailed over to where the others were as the three started to get rowdy. A familiar pattern of them wrestling and cursing at each other made her sigh, a small smile coming to her lips as if they were the exact same weather or not they were on school grounds.

Hearing the doorbell ring, the three stopped as Natsu shoved Gajeel off of him. "Someone get the door!"

"I'll get it," Gray murmured as he left the kitchen. Lucy felt awkward as she sat by herself at the island, wondering what Gray meant by that as she thought to herself.

Natsu came over and leaned against the counter, grabbing her beer bottle out of her hands making her cry out. "Hey, that's mine!"

"So, what did you and ice-princess talk about?" He completely ignored her as she puffed her cheeks out in frustration.

"Just how much of a whore you are."

Natsu nodded as he took another swig. "I prefer the word: ladies man." He smirked, making Lucy roll her eyes at him. "Or babe magnet."

"I'll just stick with whore." Lucy stuck her tongue out at him making him mirror her actions.

"You two are a bunch of kids," Gajeel came over, scoffing at the couple as he grabbed a beer bottle from the island to open it with his teeth. Lucy watched him in horror as he took a large swig of his drink, a smirk coming to his lips. "I thought you two ain't friends."

"We aren't." Natsu answered as he now stood up straight. "Not like it's your business anyways. You can't even pull a move on that short girl from bio, you got no room to talk."

"Levy?" Lucy gasped as Gajeel turned red.

"H—hey!" He sputtered out, his finger pointed right at Natsu's face. "Th—that ain't your fuckin business! At least Levy and I are friends!"

"You like Levy?" Lucy asked, jaw dropped as Gajeel now turned to look at her.

"N—no!" He shouted, coming in close to growl at her. "You shut yer mouth! You didn't hear anything!"

Lucy only smiled smugly as she looked away from him, looking right at Natsu who smirked.

"I don't like her!"

"Hey, you started the party without us?"

Turning their heads to look, Loke Celestal came into the room, a box of beer on his shoulders as his eyes locked with the blonde. Lucy's eyes widened as she saw the ginger, his mouth gaping as his eyes flickered to the blonde and then back to his friends.

"Lu—Lucy—?"

"Loke!" She squealed, hopping off the barstool to come rushing towards him. "Hey! Let's talk!" She quickly pulled him out of the room as he shouted protests. The couple disappeared down the hall making everyone exchange looks of confusion, a slightly irritated look coming onto Natsu's face as he watched them disappear.

Shoving Loke down the hall and to the foyer, Lucy turned to look at the ginger who was scowling at her.

"What the hell are you doing here? Do you know what kind of shit you're into? Your dad—!"

"I know! I know!" Lucy hissed out, face red from embarrassed as she whipped her head behind her to see if anyone was watching or listening. She turned back to look back at Loke who huffed, planting one of his hands on his hips as he adjusted the box of beer on his shoulder. "Listen, it's a long story. My dad introduced me to my fiance and I kind of ran away from home and—"

"Wait, fiance?" Loke put his hand up to her face, blinking rapidly. "Fiancé?" he repeated again making Lucy nod slowly. "Your fiancé?"

"Stop repeating it!" Lucy groaned out, slapping her hand on her forehead. "Like I said, that's what happened so I ran out and Natsu happened to find me crying in town and he kind of brought me here. And before you ask!" Lucy held her finger up to his face as he opened his mouth. "There is nothing going on between him and I! He is just helping me out, alright? Nothing was given or exchanged or will be in the future!"

Loke closed his mouth and pressed his lips into a tight line, finding a bit of relief in her sentence. "You know your dad has a manhunt out for you."

"I know," she hissed, shooting the ginger a look. "Can you please not tell anyone? I need space and time to think about everything and I just can't go back. You know how it's going to be if I go back."

Loke pursed his lips as he stared at the distressed blonde, a sigh flying out of his lips as Lucy started to whimper, showing off her puppy dog eyes. He just ran a hand through his locks as he looked away, trying his hardest to not look at her pouting face.

"When are you planning on going back home?"

"Sometime this week," Lucy sighed. "Once dad settles down and I have my head together."

"Are you staying with Natsu?"

"Well, I did last night and then today he brought me here… said it'll be safe."

Loke pursed his lips again, shifting from one foot to another as he debated about what to do. Seeing how his childhood friend and father's boss's daughter was standing in front of him whimpering about this and that, he felt conflicted as he let out yet another frustrated sigh.

"You better be home by the end of this week or I'm going to drag you back home myself."

"Oh, Loke!" Lucy cheered as she threw her arm around him. "Thank you! Thank you!" She squealed, jumping up and down as he gave her back a pat. "Wait," she reeled back to look up at him in confusion. "What are you even doing here?"

"Oh, Gray invited me," he grinned as he started to push her towards the kitchen, again.

"I didn't know you and Gray were friends…"

"I'm friends with Natsu and everyone else, too."

"Oh, so is this the other life you live outside of work? How would your father like it if he found out his son is were hanging out with Natsu Dragneel and his gang?" Lucy teased as Loke scowled at her.

"They're not all that bad, just cause they tend to fight a lot doesn't mean they're bad kids."

"Seriously?"

"And who I am friends with and what I do isn't his business."

Lucy only rolled her eyes as she came back into the kitchen, seeing how it was now filled with more people than before. Natsu was first to come back over to her, offering a warm smile as he nodded at Loke. "Let me introduce you to the others." He brought her over to where the dining table was where Elfman was beginning to place cups in a pyramid. "This is Jellal and his girlfriend Erza."

"H—Hello!" Lucy offered a shy smile as she faced the couple. Lucy felt stunned at the scarlet beauty as she turned to smile and offer her a hand to shake.

"Nice to meet you, Lucy."

"Hi Lucy, nice to meet you!"

"Nice to meet you two!"

Natsu started to pull her away from the couple as he made his way over to the other side of the table, stopping in front of a blonde and dark-haired male who were mid-way setting cups down on the table. "This is Sting and Rogue, they actually go to Sabertooth High but we're childhood friends, so," Natsu pointed at the two who stopped to say hello.

"Wow, I didn't know you were friends with such hot babes, Natsu." The blonde one started to laugh as Rogue gave him a slight look.

"Sorry about him, nice to meet you, I'm Rogue." He offered his hand out to Lucy who shook his hand.

"I—it's fine…"

Seeing how another silver-haired woman came, she slapped the back of Sting's head as he jerked forward. "What the hell, Yuki!"

"Sorry about him," the woman scoffed, eyes narrowed. "He's stupid. I'm Yukino, I also attend Sabertooth High." She put her hand out to Lucy who grasped it to shake as Sting cursed up a storm.

"Lucy…"

"Hope we can be friends, Lucy!" She smiled right back, making Lucy smile widely. "By the way Natsu, where are your cups? These are the only ones."

"There's more in the pantry." He pointed at the door by the oven as she left the conversation to go hunting. He then dragged her back over to the counter where Gray was with a blue-haired woman. "This is Gray's girlfriend, Juvia."

"She's not my girlfriend!" Gray scowled, face glowing red as the blue-haired one sighed lovingly, latching herself onto his arm.

"Oh, my darling Gray!" She gushed, leaning into him as Gray sputtered out in embarrassment.

Lucy could only giggle as she watched Gray try to pry the woman off of him, Natsu pulling her away as it started to get awkward and uncomfortable.

"Um, I think that's about everyone who is coming tonight…" He trailed off, trying to think about his group of friends who agreed to come. "Anyways, I wanted to ask," he caught her attention as he held out the beer bottle he had in his hands. Lucy took it from him as she took a swig, raising his eyebrow at the pink-haired student. "How do you know Loke?"

"Oh," Lucy laughed lightly. "His dad works for my dad. Loke and I grew up together because of how close his dad was to my mom at the time."

Natsu nodded as he pried open another bottle with his teeth, Lucy watching in amusement and horror as he grinned at her. "Party trick."

"You and Gajeel…" she muttered as she took the bottle he was offering to her.

Natsu just snickered as he popped another one open, this time drinking from the bottle as he wiped the corner of his mouth. "C'mon, you're gonna be my beer pong partner."

"M—me?" Lucy pointed to herself, eyes blinking rapidly. "I've never played before."

"Whaaat?" He gasped dramatically, looking at her with wide eyes and jaw dropped. "You never played beer pong?"

Lucy flushed as she shook her head, hair swaying back and forth.

"Let me teach you. There's a reason why they call me the beer pong king."

"Nobody calls you that!" Gajeel's and Gray's voices echoed throughout the house.

Natsu just scoffed as he flipped both of them the bird, a smirk plastered on his lips.

.

.

.

Feeling a lot more comfortable and drunk, Lucy sat by the fire that had been made as she listened to the crashes of the waves and people talking around her. A lot more people showed up and many she didn't recognize but Natsu seemed to know them as he went around introducing them as family and friends. She didn't realize how many people Natsu knew as the large home occupied many bodies. Music was booming and colorful lights flashed within the house as the blonde looked up to the starry night sky. She was impressed with the minimal light pollution as she could clearly see the bright orbs in the sky and make out the constellations.

Hiccuping slightly, Lucy looked up to see Erza come walk over and offer her a smile as she handed her a cup. Lucy took it from her and offered back a smile, seeing how the redhead sat down next to her.

"I heard about what's going on, I hope you're alright, Lucy."

Lucy couldn't help but smile. "Thanks Erza. It's just another bump in the road."

"I like that about you," she pointed out as she took a sip of her drink, red painted on her cheeks from alcohol. "You always seem to have a good attitude towards things."

"T—thanks," she murmured bashfully, hoping the cup to her lips. "so, how do you and Natsu know each other?"

"Childhood friends."

Lucy nodded as she realized how everyone seemed to know Natsu since he was young, her brown orbs subconsciously looking around for the student. She could see him playing inside the home, laughing loudly at his friends as he had a wide grin on her face. It made her smile softly as her gaze returned back to the woman next to her. "Do you guys do this often? Throw parties?"

"Oh, yeah," Erza laughed as she watched the bonfire pop. "we're kind of a rowdy bunch but that's what I like best about everyone."

"Everyone is so nice and lively…" Lucy hummed sweetly. "I really like everyone."

"Think of yourself as a part of the group, now," Erza gave her an encouraging smile. "Natsu never brings anyone new around."

Lucy could only blush as Jellal came over, smiling lovingly at his girlfriend who reached to hold his hand he held out.

"Hey, Lucy, are you doing alright?"

"Doing great, thanks."

Jellal offered a warm smile to her as he looked back at Erza. "My love, you have been requested at the pong table for a rematch."

"Oh?" She smiled devilishly as she stood up. "Somebody wants to get beat , again?" She cracked her knuckles and neck making Lucy gulp. "Come on, Jellal. Let's show them!"

Seeing how Erza dragged Jellal back to the house, Lucy could only laugh and smile at the two. It made her insides warm with how nice and welcoming everyone was, especially since she was somebody new. Everyone warmed up to her very quickly which helped her adapt to such a rowdy bunch as shouts of playful fighting, giggling, and singing echoed into the night. Lucy could have never imagined this was a life she would want as she felt so at home, her chest warm with the thought of Natsu's friends and family. So, far, everything felt like a dream as she looked out into the glistening ocean.

"Lucy!" Natsu's voice echoed as she turned to see the pink-haired male run over to her. "There you are!"

"Hey…" she flushed slightly as the male flashed her a wide grin.

"I've been looking for you! Rematch against Erza! I can't play without my partner!"

Lucy felt her heart throb inside her chest as she looked at him with wide eyes. His boyish grin and carefree attitude made her feel flustered as he held a hand out to her. Her eyes darted from his hand to his face as she felt her heart throb throb rapidly. She slowly placed her hand into his larger warm hand as he helped her up, her body reeling towards him like a magnet.

"You alright, Luce?"

"Y—yeah," she heard her heart pound. "I'm surprised you still want me to be your partner. I made us lose the last two games."

"It's not about how many losses you have," he lectured as he pulled her towards the house. "it's about redemption!"

Lucy could only laugh as he gave her a toothy grin, a warm feeling spreading across her chest as she smiled lovingly at the male.

Maybe this is what she needed.

notes: hmmm, i kind of like where this is going but still unsure where… let me know. see you next chapter!