The characters belong to Hiro Mashima. The OCs I introduce belong to me.


Chapter 8

The next morning Lucy struggles to get out of bed. Groaning, she rolls to the side and feels the cold sheets. Her bedmate must already be up and making breakfast for everyone. Mira being the wonderful sister she is had Lucy sleep in her bed with her in case the nightmares came throughout the night. Thankfully she did not, but with how drunk she got she passed right out into a deep slumber. She hopes Cana is up working on her patented hangover cure.

Once she's finally in the sitting up position she grabs her phone to check for messages. There's only the one Bickslow sent last night. She opens it up and reads.

Missed you tonight. Hope you had fun with the strippers. I know I did. 😊

She doesn't know how to feel about that text. On one hand, it bothers her even though it shouldn't. They're not a couple. On the other, it'd be hypocritical since she had quite a good time with the male strippers. Stereotypically women can be a little clingier and pushier whereas the men do their job, collect their money then get out. Ugh, she's too tired to be thinking too hard on this and taking into account that they are not a couple, texts back:

I did too 😊

There, now he has to figure out if she meant missing him, having fun with the strippers, or both. Making a trip to the en suite bathroom she realizes that if anything happened between Bickslow and a stripper the wedding would be canceled due to her brother and her best guy friends murdering the guy. She chuckles and then directs her thoughts to everything that needs to be done. It's going to be a busy day for her because she offered to help make sure the florists have the right flowers, the caterers will have the food ready on time, and everything is set up and ready to go while taking photos in between.

This is exactly what Lucy needs, a busy day to keep her mind off of everything else making sure everything goes as perfectly as it can for Laxus and Mira. No thinking about Ren and Sherry, no thinking about how she's been a bad friend (even though they all told her not to feel that way, they understand), no thinking about Bickslow and the promise he made about taking her back to his place after the wedding and… Lucy smacks her cheeks. 'Get your head out of the gutter Lucy.'

Stumbling out of the bedroom she follows the smell of the delicious food Mira has made, drool dribbling out of her mouth, stomach grumbling. She thanks the heavens that Cana is up and working on that hangover cure, while also staying out of the way of a stressed Mira. Lucy wishes she could be of more help in the kitchen, by her demeanor she can tell Mira is stress cooking.

She goes on a hunt for Lisanna wondering where she could be. When she steps out of the bathroom, Lucy grabs her arm and gently tugs her into the kitchen.

"You need to take over. She's freaking out in there."

Lisanna waddles as fast as she can to the kitchen and pushes Mira out of the way, "Go and get ready, I got this."

"But-"

"Mira, you already have the majority of it ready anyway. Shower and prep for today."


Bickslow wakes up and groggily sits up rubbing his eyes. "Damn, what a night." He swings his legs over the bed and grabs his phone to check his messages. When he sees the one from Lucy he grumbles, "Ah, fuck that's not what I meant." 'What the hell did she mean by "I did too." Did she miss me? Have fun with the strippers? Both?' Nope. Too early for this and it's going to be a long stressful day. He can worry about that later. Right now, he needs to get up and take a piss then get everyone up before making everyone breakfast. 'What time is it anyway?' He checks his phone, "7:35." He stands up, stretches, and then heads to the bathroom. After he's done doing his business he heads to the kitchen to find Freed had already gotten a start on breakfast.

Freed and Rufus having not gone to the bachelor party had watched all the kiddos with Bisca and Alzack. This morning, Rufus stayed behind with the other two adults while Freed made sure the other guys woke up, ate, and got ready on time. Laxus would never admit it out loud, but Freed knows he wants this day to go perfectly for Mira. He hears someone on their way to the kitchen and sees that it's Bickslow. He's somewhat surprised that Bickslow didn't bring a woman back. Yes, he's been hanging out with Laxus's sister but when Bickslow gets a few drinks in him… He's happy to see the man is slowly getting out of the bachelor lifestyle and is looking to settle down.

"Good morning Bickslow. Have a good night?"

"Yeah, it was a lot of fun."

"No hookups?"

"Hell no. Didn't you hear about Lucy and I?"

"That you are trying to win her heart? Yes, I did. However, I know how you get when you've had a few drinks."

"I didn't get that drunk and besides I wouldn't do that to Lucy. A girl like her is once in a lifetime."

"Are you not worried if she doesn't return your affections?"

Bickslow shrugs his shoulders, "I'll deal with that when the time comes. Now, what's on the menu?"

"Just a simple breakfast. Toast, eggs, bacon. There's no time to do anything fancy."

"Fine by me." A notification goes off on Bickslow's phone.

Lucy: Could you take pictures of you and the guys for me? It's going to be a little impossible for me to go back and forth.

Bickslow: Yeah, they might not turn out that well.

Lucy: Thank you so much! Just do what you can, I'll be editing them. Pass around the camera too.

Bickslow: Got it.

He gets up to search for said camera and when he finds it, he walks around the house taking pictures of the guys passed out before waking them up rudely. He also gets a couple of Freed doing his thing. He doesn't know what kind of moments Lucy wants him to capture, he'll just take pictures of everything and leave it for her to sort out.


Time has flown while everyone got ready and now it's almost time for the women to head out to the location. Lucy heads out before them so she can double-check everything ensuring it's good to go. She got word from Bickslow that the guys were there ready and waiting. Pulling in a parking space she parks and takes a deep breath. She knew today was going to be a tad stressful, however, she didn't think that getting ready with the women would be that intense. She gets out of her car and double-checks the backseat to make sure she has everything she needs. Bag with heels, make-up bag, and camera. She puts her purse in it to make it easier to carry everything around.

As she makes her way to the women's tents to put her stuff there, she pulls her camera out. She walks around taking pictures in between directing the caterers, and the florists, and getting stopped by other guests to chat. She heads to the men's tent and hears Freed complaining about not being able to cover up Bickslow's black eye. Walking in she starts giggling.

Bickslow hears giggling and looks in the direction of the sound and sees Lucy at the opening of the tent. She takes a quick picture and heads his way. Fuck is she beautiful.

"What in the world happened to you?"

"Uh, nothing."

"Don't lie, we got it all on camera," Natsu puts in. He happens to have the camera, so he goes through the pictures to show Lucy.

Bickslow tries to stop him but Laxus steps in his way. "What the hell dude."

Lucy takes the camera from Natsu looks through the pictures, and sees a half-nude woman sitting on his lap, his arm wrapped around her waist. He's not paying any attention to her, instead, he's looking at someone laughing. She really has no right to be upset, she has no claim on him. They only agreed to not fuck anyone else, nothing was said about having fun in other ways. She knows he wouldn't, but the picture just irks her. She makes a note to delete it later until she sees what happens next.

Whoever took the photos found the shutter setting. It's a slideshow of someone pulling the stripper off of Bickslow's lap. It looks like Gajeel. Then a fist comes into the shot and hits Bickslow in the face. When the person comes into view it's Gray glowering at him. The person taking the photos turns it around to take a selfie and there's her best friend with spiky pink hair, thumbs up, and sporting a big grin. She's surprised Natsu of all people was the one to find the shutter setting to take multiple photos.

"That's not what you think," Bickslow says nervously.

"Relax, I know what goes on at strip clubs. Besides, I have no room to talk." She hands the camera back to Natsu and goes through the pictures on her own. When she finds the one she's looking for she shows it to him.

Bickslow looks at the picture of a male stripper thrusting his junk in her face. Her head is turned to the side, laughing with her hands in front of her to block him. He wants to be jealous, but he has no right to be. He has no claim on her.

"I bet I can give you a better lap dance."

"Oh, really?"

"Alright you two, save that for later."

Bickslow hands her camera back and notices her choice of footwear that does not go with the tight-fitting dress she's wearing. "Why are you wearing boots?"

"Hmm? Easier to walk around and take pictures. I'll be in heels for the reception. Speaking of I got to head that way and check on the caterers again. The others should be here soon, you can ask one of them to cover your black eye." She gives him a light kiss on his cheek, "By the way, you look really handsome." Lucy blushes as she walks away. She couldn't help it; this is bringing out the romantic in her. She looks over the pink Peony flower arrangements on her way through ensuring they're where they need to be. Peonies symbolize love, honor, and happiness, a good choice in flowers for this wonderful day.

The second Bickslow saw Lucy he wanted to pull her into him and crash his lips to hers, but it wasn't the time or place. She looked so beautiful and just couldn't keep his eyes off of her. He was nervous about what she would say and do when she looked at the pictures and was immensely relieved when she didn't get upset. Which can't be said for him when he saw the male stripper in front of Lucy. He hid it well though which he is proud of himself for. He can't help but stare at her ass when she walks out.

"You two look good together." Freed states and receives a smile from the man. "Well, let us get you to the women's tent and wait for them so they can take care of you.

They too are stopped here and there by guests who want to chat. They don't have to wait long for the women to show up. All of them ask questions about what happened and Bickslow tells them the truth. Once he's taken care of it's time to stand by Laxus at the altar. 'Man did the time go quickly'. He takes in the tranquil atmosphere of the wedding taking place outdoors by the lake. It provides a serene backdrop for the ceremony. He tries to focus, not that there's much for him to do other than stand there, but he can't keep his eyes off of Lucy while she does her job.

Lucy takes a few pictures of Laxus, his best man Bickslow, and his groomsmen Freed and Elfman; a couple of them contain Bickslow himself and before she knows it, the wedding starts. She quietly takes pictures of the maid of honor, Lisanna, and the bridesmaids, Erza and Evergreen, walking down the aisle along with the ring bearer, Iggy, and flower girl, Torrey.

Lucy keeps her camera trained on Laxus when it's time for Mira to walk down so she can get his reaction to laying eyes on his gorgeous bride. Lucy then quickly turns her attention to get Mira's reaction to seeing her handsome groom. After she snaps a few photos she watches Mira go down the aisle in her elegant dress. Once she is at the altar, and Gramps is placing her hand in Laxus's, Lucy sits down on the bench in front and gets a few shots before the ceremony begins.

As the minister talks, Lucy takes in the scene. It's something out of a fairy tale. A beautiful sunny day, not too hot or too cold. The temperature is just right. She can feel the love in the air, so palpable and real. The natural backdrop makes it even more enchanting.

When it's time for the vows Mira starts, "Laxus, I choose you and promise to choose you as my husband every day we wake. I will love you in word and deed. I will laugh with you, cry with you, scream with you, grow with you, and craft with you. To be your kin and your partner in all of life's adventures is all I could hope for in the world. Loving what I know of you and trusting what I don't yet know, I give you my hand. I give you my love. I give you myself, the good, the bad, and the yet to come."

Laxus nervously chuckles, "How am I supposed to follow that? You have always been the one good with words." He clears his throat trying to hold back his tears, "Mira, I love you more fiercely with every second that slips through our hands. With you, I can make the most of my days. To quote The Beatles, 'Love is old, Love is new/Love is all, love is you.'"

The minister then asks for the rings to be brought out. Once both Mira and Laxus receive them, Laxus starts. He grabs Mira's hand and as he slides the ring on he says, "With this ring, I vow to love and honor you from this moment forward."

Mira can't help but get a little misty-eyed when it's her turn. She holds Laxus's hands and repeats what he said, "With this ring, I vow to love and honor you from this moment forward."

"By the power invested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."

Lucy gets her camera back out before Laxus grabs Mira's face and plants a hard kiss on Mira's lips. Lucy clears her throat loudly over the cheers when the kiss begins to get a little heated.

Bickslow laughs and yells, "Let the poor woman breathe."

The couple pulls apart and faces the crowd with big smiles on their faces. They walk back up the aisle and everyone else files out behind them. While the guests go to the tent for the reception, Lucy guides the wedding party where she wants to take photos of them.

"First the bride and groom," Lucy instructs how she wants them to pose. Once done, she moves on to the wedding party. They're all smiles, laughing, and having fun. There's more to be had once it's time to go to the reception tent. It's so nice to be surrounded by so much love and happiness.

Lisanna walks over to Lucy, "All right hun, your turn."

"Wait what?"

Lisanna takes Lucy's camera, "Get over there with Laxus, Mira, and Gramps."

Not only does Lucy get a picture with the three of them, but there's a couple of her, Gramps, and Laxus. A couple of just her and Mira then just her and Laxus.

"Okay, it's time to head to the reception, I'm sure everyone is getting antsy to eat and get the party started," Lucy says.

Bickslow walks by her side, "Hey, don't you have to change out of your boots?"

Lucy looks down, "crap. I'll be right back."

When Laxus and Mira walk in, everyone cheers. Bickslow follows Laxus in the food line then takes a seat at the head table sitting on Laxus's left. Everyone happily eats and there's a bunch of chatter. Bickslow looks up and sees Lucy in line talking with a man he doesn't know, laughing at whatever he's said. He does his best to not let it bother him. He's happy to see Lucy shaking her head no at him then proceed to sit at the table where Gramps is at. Once everyone is seated Bickslow clanks his fork against his glass and stands. He signals the waiters to fill everyone's glasses and then begins his speech.

He grabs a piece of paper from the inside of his jacket. "Hey everyone, for those that don't know me, the name is Bickslow. I had trouble figuring out what I would like to say, so I did a bit of research. As part of my research, I discovered that according to tradition I am supposed to sing the groom's praises and tell you all about his many good points. Well, I'm very sorry but I can't sing, and I won't lie." Bickslow chuckles, Laxus is so going to get mad at what's coming next. "I'm just kidding. I can sing very well. Anyway, I read somewhere the perfect best man speech should last as long as it takes for the groom to make love. So, ladies and gentlemen, please raise a glass for the happy couple!"

Everyone laughs, aside from Laxus who glares at Bickslow. "Seriously man?"

Bickslow laughs at Laxus's expression, "I've known Laxus for about twelve years and I can honestly say that he is handsome, brilliant, funny, and char…" Bickslow turns to Laxus pointing at the piece of paper, "Laxus, I can't read your writing. What's this last word?"

Laxus rolls his eyes when he sees the paper is blank.

Bickslow continues, "Mira I'd like to take this opportunity to say how beautiful you look today. Laxus hmmm you could have scrubbed a little harder behind the ears, but not a bad effort for you."

Laxus finally breaks and laughs with everyone else. 'This guy…' Despite his ribbing, Bickslow really knows how to get a crowd going.

"Whilst doing my research about a best man's speech I came across some important information about marriage and would like to pass it on to you both. Mira, would you please place your hand on the table? (She does). Laxus I'd like you to place your hand on top of Mira's hand. (He Does)." Now turning to Laxus and looking directly at him, "I'm told this is the last time you'll have the upper hand so make the most of it."

The laughter gets louder and Bickslow catches a glimpse of Lucy wiping a tear from her eye. "On behalf of the bridesmaids, groomsmen, and myself, I would like to thank Laxus and Mira for asking us to be part of their special day. I know you've both put a lot of hard work and effort into getting everything ready for today and it's amazing.

"I could go on talking about Laxus all day long, but other people need to speak as well, and let's face it, Laxus can humiliate himself enough without my help. I wish the two of you a long and happy marriage together. Mira, I know Laxus has a soft and loving side for you. I know that you will both make each other very happy, and you are everything that he needs. Just please try and look after him as he struggles to look after himself." Bickslow raises his glass, "So everyone, please raise your glasses to the bride and groom, congratulations!"

"Congratulations!" Everyone shouts.

Once everyone has settled Lisanna stands up, "Thanks Bickslow. I don't know how I'm supposed to follow that. Hello, everybody! For those who haven't had the pleasure, I'm Lisanna, the younger, slightly less responsible sister of our stunning bride. When I say less responsible, I mean I was the one who always covered for her when she was out late with Laxus.

"So, it's only fitting that I'm standing here as the Matron of Honor today. But really, standing here as my sister's Matron of Honor, I couldn't be prouder or happier for her. And as her younger sister, I am also contractually obligated to do a bit of roasting. First off, let's start with the fact that my sister, despite her elegant exterior, has a secret love for cheesy action movies. She's seen every single Fast and Furious movie like, twenty times. If this doesn't show Laxus her commitment to long-term sagas, I don't know what will.

"And speaking of long-term commitment, let's talk about her questionable fashion choices during her teenage years," Lisanna scrunches her face, "Actually, how about we don't. But seriously, I have seen her style evolve through the years and I am truly glad she found a wedding dress that isn't black.

"In all seriousness, I watched Mira and Laxus go from friends to best friends, and then to something more. Something that defied definition until it became clear. It was love. The kind of love that happens when your best friend becomes your soulmate. Through you two, I learned that true love is not about grand gestures or dramatic declarations. It's about making each other a cup of coffee every morning, having silly inside jokes, supporting each other through hard times, and most importantly, being each other's best friend.

"Tonight, we aren't just celebrating marriage; we're celebrating a bond that was formed years ago, between two best friends who fell in love. A bond that has only strengthened with time and will continue to grow stronger in the tears to come.

"So, let's raise our glasses to Mira and Laxus. Here's to love, laughter, and happily ever after. To best friends, now and forever. Cheers!"

"Cheers!" everyone shouts.

When Lisanna sits back down Mira engulfs her in a big hug. "I love you Lisanna."

"I love you two sis."

Lucy is glad she made sure to record the speeches. Once it's time to cut the cake, she has her camera ready to go. She wonders if Laxus is going to mash cake on Mira's face. He would be wise not to unless he wants a Satan Bride for the rest of the evening. Mira however does mash cake on Laxus's face. Once they've cleaned up and had their cake, it's time for the bride and groom's first dance which is to the song Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran. Afterward, Laxus pries the camera out of Lucy's hands and has her dance with him while Gramps a dances with Mira.

"I'm so happy for you two Laxus."

"Thanks, Lucy."

When they're done dancing, everyone takes turns dancing with the bride and groom. Bickslow manages to convince Laxus to dance with him. It lasts about ten seconds.

Lucy is dancing with Mira and when she looks over at the bar, there's Bickslow who had discarded his jacket at some point. The sleeves of his dress shirt rolled up, tie loosened around his neck, sipping on whiskey. He looks her way and smiles at her.

Mira notices and can't help the, "Awww so cute", that comes out of her mouth.

"Mira!"

Mira giggles until she notices a woman strut up to Bickslow, getting in his space, running her finger down Bickslow's chest.

Lucy sees it too. She breaks out of Mira's hold, "Sorry Mira."

Mira smiles, "It's okay hun, go stake your claim."

Lucy saunters over to Bickslow, "There you are! I've been looking for you."

Bickslow pulls away from the woman and turns towards Lucy, His hands rest on Lucy's hips when she runs her hands up his chest and snakes to the back of his neck to pull his head down as she leans up to kiss him. It was meant to be a short kiss, but it lasted longer than intended. They break apart when there's a loud cough. Both of their face turn to the woman.

"Oh right, this is Charlotte."

Lucy keeps her hold on Bickslow, "Hello Charlotte. I'm Lucy. Are you family of the bride or groom?"

"The groom," Charlotte says not knowing who Lucy is to the family. How dare this woman just come up and get between her and Bickslow. He's supposed to be hers. "We were just getting ready to leave weren't we Bixy." She reaches out for Bickslow.

Bickslow takes a step back out of Charlotte's reach and Lucy stands in front of him. "Yeah, no. I've told you before that it was only a one-time thing. I wasn't looking for anything at the time."

"But you are now?" Charlotte tries to step around Lucy only to be blocked by her. "Get out of my way."

Lucy cocks her hip and taps her finger on her chin, "Hmmm… I know I've been away for a while, but I don't recall you being part of the family. How are you related?"

Charlotte in a snippy tone replies, "We're cousins. Now get out of my way bitch."

"I don't recall my brother and I having cousins. Bickslow, did you know Laxus and I have cousins?"

"It's news to me."

Charlotte snarls and gets in Lucy's face, "So, you're Laxus's sister? You're a lot skankier than I thought."

Lucy straightens her posture, "Listen, and listen well. You can either a) turn around and walk away or b) be forcibly removed by me. I would much rather you go with option a because my brother and sister-in-law don't deserve trash like you starting drama on their special day." Lucy glares at the woman, the same glare she would use on Natsu and Gray when they would get out of hand.

Charlotte won't admit it or let it show but the glare scares her. It promises bad things should she not listen. She huffs and stalks off.

Lucy turns back around to face Bickslow and is pulled into him as he crashes his lips on hers.

When Bickslow breaks the kiss he whispers huskily, "That was fucking hot."

"Was that a wedding crasher?"

Bickslow leads her to the dance floor, "That and my stalker."

"You have a stalker?"

Bickslow rests his hands on Lucy's hips and her hands go to his shoulders, "Yeah, she always pops up at the most unexpected times. She's certain that there's something between us even though she was only a one-night stand. She's never been so volatile before."

"Has she ever seen you with another woman?"

"If she's ever seen me at the club she never said or done anything. You don't think she'll come after you, do you?"

Lucy shrugs her shoulders, "I don't have a clue. I hate to say it, but it might be a good idea to track down the women you've slept with since her to be on the safe side."

"That would be impossible though. I hardly remember what they look like or know their names. I only remember Charlotte's because of her randomly stopping by the store. I've had to call the police a couple of times to remove her from the premises. The last time it was Erza who escorted her out and since then she's sent "love" letters."

"We can talk to Erza about doing a little investigating. See if there are any reports of women who have been hurt, threatened, etc…" Lucy releases Bickslow, "We can talk more about this later."

Bickslow watches Lucy walk over to where the sound system is and is surprised, along with everyone else, when We Got The Moves by Electric Callboy starts playing. Everyone gets on the dance floor, loving the change in energy. A few EC songs later the music changes back to music to slow dance.

They head over to the bar where Cana, Bacchus, Levy, and Gajeel are at.

"Oi! Bickslow! Did you know your woman kissed mine?"

Bickslow's steps stutters, "what?"

"Hey! It wasn't like that!" Lucy retorts.

"You're right," Cana says.

"Thank you."

"Levy kissed Lucy."

"Cana!" Levy shouts.

Cana who has a hold of Lucy's camera hands it over to Bickslow. Bickslow whistles when he sees it, "Holy shit. That is fucking hot."

Lucy takes the camera from Bickslow, "Give me that." She goes through the pictures to see what pictures Cana had taken with Bickslow looking over her shoulder.

Bickslow has Lucy stop when a picture of the both of them appears. "I want a copy of that."

"I can do that for you when I get home. I have a portable printer I use to print out pictures whenever and wherever."

Bickslow rests his chin on Lucy's shoulder, "How about some nudes?"

"Bickslow!" She is tempted by the idea, of getting some of Bickslow as well.

"Whatcha talking about over there that has you red in the face Lu?"

"Nothing." She's saved from any harassment Cana would have thrown her way when it's announced that the bride and groom are heading out on their honeymoon. Lucy hugs the both of them, "You two have fun."

"Thanks, Lucy. We mean it, for everything."

"It's not a problem."

Laxus whispers, "Listen I saw the altercation with Bickslow's stalker. Should anything happen do not hesitate to call."

"No. You two are going to enjoy the next two weeks in the extravagant honeymoon suite at Akane Beach that I reserved for the two of you."

Bickslow hugs Mira and then fist bumps Laxus, "What she said. You two have fun and don't do anything I wouldn't do." He and Lucy get out of the way so everyone else can say their goodbyes. "Want to go back to my place?"

"Yeah, I'd like that." They walk around in search of Gramps. When they spot him Lucy asks if he'll be all right if Lucy goes to Bickslow's for the night. He of course doesn't care; he encourages it but wonders how he'll get home. Lucy then spots Gray, Juvia, and Greige. She stops them asking if they could take Gramps home and of course they can. Everyone would do anything for Gramps. Juvia takes Gramps and Greige and Gray takes his car giving rides home to those that need it.

"All right, now I just got to go grab my belongings and we can get out of here."