Lucy didn't know what she was expecting when she first found out that she would have to meet her boyfriend's father but it certainly was not this. She didn't have the best track record when it came to dads so she didn't think she would with Natsu's since he is a dad but she found out pretty quickly that maybe she did.
But that small voice in her head still continued to whisper that Igneel really didn't like her and it bothered her the entire night.
She got comfortable way too fast in a foreign home in a foreign area but the fact that Natsu was so bright and at home and the way Igneel tried to include her into conversations and make her laugh had her smiling the entire night. She watched how the two joked with one another and shoved each other around, grins on their faces.
Igneel would try to tell embarrassing stories of Natsu while he was growing up and it would always cause an argument between the two and even that she was giggling at.
And she had finally figured out where Natsu got his ridiculous appetite from because holy shit could Igneel eat. He ate like he has been starving for months at a time but his physique was lean as if he worked out. Those two were vacuuming up everything into their mouths and she was sure they would have plenty of leftovers but when there was only one plate left over, she was shell-shocked as if someone told her that someone murdered her precious Plue doll (again).
It was so refreshing to see someone having a good relationship with their parents.
Her and her own father didn't necessarily have bad blood between them. Jude treats her very well and provides for his little girl but the issue wasn't that he was a piece of shit dad, it was that he wasn't present.
Which could also be considered a piece of shit dad since he didn't do his job as a parent but hired those who could parent for him.
He didn't even care to notice when she was going buckwild back in high school, desperate for any ounce of attention he could afford but it never worked. He always had that same bright smile and told her how much he loves her and then would be on his way.
She was glad she got out of that phase back in high school because could you just imagine if she was still like that in college or her twenties?
It made her shiver just thinking about it.
"Cold?" Natsu's voice murmured against her ear and she looked up at him, her head tucked against his chin while he held her flush against his body. He barely had his eyes open but he was still present making her feel better.
"No," she said as Natsu proceeded to pull the blanket higher up over them and she cozied up against him. "Do you think…" She gulped, unsure how to word her question. "Um… you think your dad likes me?"
At this, he opened his eyes slightly to look down at her and she knew he was annoyed with how many times she asked this fucking question.
She knew he liked her but did he… like her? For her? Or because she was his son's girlfriend? Or maybe it was because she was blonde and he had a thing for blondes like his son does. Or maybe—
"Lucy, what do I or my old man have to do to get you to understand that he likes you?"
"Well, usually my dad gives me money." She giggled at the way he rolled his eyes.
"Sorry, sweetheart, you're going to be marrying broke." He snickered, tightening his arms around her figure. "I want my sugar mommy to take care of me."
"Gross," she nudged him and he was burying his head in between her neck. She squealed and squirmed around and he peppered her with kisses. "Natsu! Stop! Your dad is right down the hall!"
"Who cares?" Natsu sounded as if he really didn't, his hands wandering on her squirming body. "He sleeps like a fuckin' rock and he's not dumb. He knows I'm sexually active." He kissed her neck and she shivered at how hot it felt against her skin. "Let me just have some dessert." He purred into her ear, his hands grabbing what he could as it slid down her stomach.
"No! I can't taint my reputation just yet," she pushed him off frantically and he was whining in that stupid way she adored. "Seriously, Natsu, no!"
"Ugh! Fine!" He pouted, tipping his chin down so he looked away while crossing his arms. "But I'm not going to give you a goodnight kiss!"
Lucy was now the one rolling her eyes at his childish behavior. "What do we have in our plans for tomorrow?" She changed the topic, hoping he would forget about his sulking.
And she was right as he beamed, a smile curling up to his lips while he turned back around to face her. "I was hoping I can show you around the area! There's a nice little stream down behind the house and we can go fishing or swimming even! And then we could go exploring and I can even show you around the town where I grew up!"
He was so animated as he spoke, mirth dancing in his orbs while his hands flew around.
And all Lucy could do was stare as he was so bright and so cute in his element.
He ended up giving her a goodnight kiss that night. Multiple in fact as he told her how much he adores her and loves her with his touches and whispers of sweet nothings.
Waking up first thing in the morning, Lucy was confused as to where she was as she took in the wooden interior. Her eyes blinked slowly and dumbly as she twisted her head to look and all she got was a drooling, snoring college student. She was quick to remember their day yesterday and relaxed further into the mattress, watching her boyfriend sleep as a smile tugged on her lips.
He looked so peaceful when he was home. He was so carefree in everything and so full of life that it made her feel incredibly warm.
She reached out to brush his bangs away from his eyes and he stirred slightly but didn't wake, allowing her to appreciate him.
Lucy never thought she would find love nor did she think she would find it so quickly. Natsu came crashing into her life like some kind of meteor and she was forever grateful that their fates had intertwined like this.
The hopeless romantic in her wants to think this was meant to be. That she had spent her previous lives with this man in every shape and form and that was why she felt so strongly connected with him.
She wants to think that, at least, as she traced his features and smiled fondly.
How did she fall in love with someone like this?
Completely opposite of her but exactly the same in every way?
Was it the romantic in her that just made it seem that way? The way he looked at her, spoke to her, held her… it all felt so familiar and she struggled to admit it and come to terms with the idea that this is what love is.
This feeling. This moment. The closeness. The warmth. The security.
"I love you," she whispered, her delicate fingers grazing across his cheek and she watched how his face scrunched up before his eyes began to flutter open.
Her cheeks tinted pink at the way he was blinking at her but she smiled as he smiled right back.
"Good morning," his deep sleepy voice made her skin prickle. He reached over and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her closer to his chest as he nuzzled himself against her. "I love you, too."
"Y—you heard me?" She said shyly, glad her face was tucked against his chin.
He hummed against her, his warmth coaxing her back to sleep. "What time is it?"
"I'm not sure. Early."
A comfortable silence mushroomed itself between them and Lucy was content with lying in his arms, tracing his muscles and inhaling his delicious scent. He was always so warm and comforting that she wouldn't mind dying in his arms like this.
"Lucy," he murmured and she hummed in response. "I'm hungry."
And as if it was on cue, his stomach grumbled and she couldn't help but giggle.
"I don't know how you are. You practically ate a whole thanksgiving plate last night—and more!" She pulled away to look at his sheepish grin.
"I can't help it," he whined and he flopped on his back, his arm spread out. "And you won't let me eat you out." He pouted at her, looking over at his flushed girlfriend who scowled at him.
"I would hardly call my vagina a meal."
"I care to disagree, Miss Heartfillia," he purred and she was rolling her eyes, sticking her hand out in between them so he didn't try to pull a move on her.
"Besides, I told you I'm not comfortable doing anything with you while your father is right down the hall."
"So you're saying if he wasn't down the hall I could?" He quirked a suggestive brow at her and her scowl deepened. "What? You just said—"
"Natsu, you are not going to kick your father out of his own house just so you could get your dick wet!" She had to remind herself that it was still early and she shouldn't be raising her voice too high or else Igneel really might hear.
Natsu could only roll his eyes as he muttered something under his breath and she watched him sit up, his fist coming up to rub his eye. "Joykill."
"You are ridiculous!"
"Not as ridiculous as this cock in your—"
Lucy didn't even let him finish his sentence as she smothered him with his pillow, the light feathery material attacking his face as she shrieked. His arms flailed around for a minute before she was up on her feet and standing with her arms crossed, cheeks painted pink.
"Come on, Luce," he whined, leaning into his bed further so he got closer but his extended hand barely brushed across her t-shirt as she stepped back. "Just a little taste."
"You're insatiable," she whirled around to go towards her open bag she didn't even bother unpacking last night. "What kind of attire do I need for the day?"
"Your birthday suit."
She ignored him as she rummaged through her suitcase, holding up t-shirt after shorts to see what was most suitable. The summer air here is a lot more thicker than it is in Magnolia and Natsu did say he was going to take her swimming today so she kept that into account.
She began to toss clothes she was to wear to the side as she heard the creak of the mattress and his loud obnoxious yawn from behind.
When she turned around, she was surprised to see how close he was to her, his broad chest right in her face.
"You know the mornings are my favorite when it comes to you," he had a slight pout to his lips, leaning in so he hovered. "I didn't even get my morning kiss."
She couldn't help but giggle at the way he stuck his bottom lip out and she found him too cute to refuse. She got up on her toes and brushed her lips across his own but let out a sound of surprise in the back of her throat as Natsu grabbed her by the face and deepened the kiss.
As suspected from the horniest guy she knew, she stumbled backwards and Natsu caught her, snaking one of his strong arms around her waist to yank her towards him.
She almost gave in to him just from that reaction alone and she had to remind herself that she was in Natsu's father's home with the said man right down the hall!
Using the little strength she had against him, she pushed away and gasped for air as if she was underwater the entire time.
Her entire face bloomed in color and she mustered up a glare but she knew it wasn't effective as he grinned at her.
"Sorry, I couldn't help myself." He snickered, her flush growing heavier with how close he was. "I'm going to see what my dad is up to." He dodged her swat, laughing as he had a pep in his step. He lingered at the doorway and he smirked at the glare she was throwing his way. "If he ain't here, we're fuckin'." He didn't even give her a chance to respond as he zipped out through the door, loud footsteps echoing in the wooden house. The loud whine for his dad was heard and she could only shake her head in disapproval, slapping her hand against her forehead before dragging it down her face.
"What did I get myself into?" She muttered to herself, collecting her clothes from the floor to head over to the bathroom. "You picked him, Lucy, remember. This was your choice." She didn't know who she was trying to convince as her rambunctious boyfriend came into mind.
Taking her clothes off to pile them in the corner, Lucy turned the water on in the shower to wait for it to grow warm.
The idea of spending the day with Natsu in his hometown was promising. She's never been in this neck of the woods and she was excited to do everything Natsu had planned out for her. And especially coming home to a nice home cooked meal neither of them have had in a very long time was rewarding.
Now she wondered if her daddy would be as warm and welcoming as Natsu's was. It's not like he never had time to say hello to her or shower her in loads of cash but he sure as hell wasn't going to be taking time out of his schedule to cook them a fucking home cooked meal. Neither would he sit at the table and entertain her boyfriend like Igneel did for her last night.
She wasn't even sure her dad had anything to even talk about with Natsu considering they were two different people living two different lives. Even if Natsu was interested in business, what could he possibly offer a powerful man like Jude Heartfillia?
Stepping into the shower, Lucy allowed the warm water to cascade down her pale body and she moaned as the warmth sent a shiver down her spine.
She should really call her daddy and at least let him know she would be bringing her boyfriend home. Not like he would really care. He never showed interest in any of her interests so why would he bother about a boyfriend? He had bigger things to worry about like the stock market or the railroads or whatever the hell he did in his free time.
It only made her groan as she thought about having to head back home for the summer. This time around she felt incredibly sad to think she would have to be alone in a big house with her boyfriend hours away and her friends scattered around.
Unless she could convince Natsu to honeymoon with her somewhere warm for the summer.
She wondered how long it would take for him to get tired of her if they were to spend every single day together.
"Never," his voice startled her and she shrieked, jumping back and nearly slipping in the shower. She twirled around to see her boyfriend grinning down at her, bare as the day he was born and her entire face grew red.
"Natsu!" She hissed, trying to shove him out of the shower. "Your dad—!"
"He ain't here." He finished for her, body not moving an inch as the showerhead pelted him with water. "He left a note saying he went to town to grab some things." His grin grew as he leaned in towards her and she was leaning back, eyes wide. "Now, I don't know how long he's going to be but we better be quick so he doesn't walk in on us."
The gleam in his eye had her squealing as she grabbed the loofa and held it between them as if it was a gun, her hands shaking. "Natsu Dragneel, I swear to god! You horny imbecile, I told you—!"
"You said you wouldn't because my dad was in the house." Lucy didn't know how to respond, her lips parting as if she was some goldfish. "Well, he isn't." He caged her in with his arms on either side of her and she was squirming around, trying to push him off. "Come on, we can be quick. It's been so long." Natsu groaned, a whine laced between his words.
"We literally had sex yesterday!" She shrieked, voice elevating as she felt his tongue drag against her throat. "Twice!"
"You know I love a good fight, Luce," he purred against her ear and she was trembling as his heat rolled off his naked body. "I don't mind putting you in your place. You know I like to win."
In an instant, he turned her around and pushed her against the tile making her gasp out loud. The coldness of the tile against her skin had goosebumps prickle and her nipples to harden. She felt the warmth of his hard body press against her own from behind and she whimpered as she felt his shaft poke her.
Who the hell was she kidding? Of course she wanted to fuck as much as this horny bastard did. They were fucking rabbits when it came to them and she couldn't deny his advances for much longer. She had planned to jump him in the woods later today anyways so what was the harm for her to get her shit rocked in Natsu's childhood home while his father was out and about?
She pushed her hips back and dug into his erection inflicting a groan from his lips and she relished in the way his hands found purchase on her waist.
"Naughty girl," he whispered into her ear before nipping at the lobe which had her tilting her head back. "My naughty girl." He was kissing down her neck and shoulder, his hand trailing up her wet body.
She leaned into his touch, moaning as he took a hold of her breast before giving it a light squeeze. She whimpered as he pinched her nipple, her eyes trailing down to watch his hands slide across her skin. Her breath shook as his other hand trailed down her hips and thighs, caressing the skin gently while he ventured closer to her desired part. She spread her legs just a bit so he could get a good feel and she moaned with him when his fingers brushed against her folds.
"You're so wet."
"That's just the water."
"Don't lie to me," he growled against her ear, lips pressed against her lobe. "I know when my girl's pussy weeps for me."
He groaned again as she pushed her hips back against his and she felt him adjust behind her, pushing her further against the wall to avoid the spray of the shower.
"Natsu," she panted, placing her hands against the wall while she popped her ass out. "Hurry."
"Impatient, are we?" He hummed and she looked over her shoulder to peek at him through long lashes. Their eyes met and she smiled, fluttering her lashes at him.
"No," she corrected. "You might lose your chance if you're not quick enough. Your dad could be on his way home."
"Like that matters," he scoffed, rolling his eyes as he gripped at his length to line up with her entrance. "I'll still fuck you silly even if he was right down the hall."
"No you will not—" her voice got caught in her throat as a shriek spilled out when he shoved himself inside of her in one swift thrust. Her body shook with the penetration and she let out a low moan, settling into the way he filled her so deliciously.
Natsu groaned out as well as he felt her walls clamp down on him, his own body shuddering at the sensation.
"Fuck," he cursed, adjusting himself to press one hand against the wall while he leaned over her body. "You feel so good, baby."
She whined as she pushed back against him, feeling the friction of his shaft sliding against her walls. She needed him. Bad. And he wouldn't stop fucking running his mouth to do his job.
"You have five minutes, Natsu," she hissed, turning to glare over her shoulder.
A lazy smirk pulled to his lips and he took a hold of her hip, pressing her deeper into him. "All I need is two."
And he was thrusting into her like their lives depended on it. Moans and groans filled the steamy room as he slapped against her behind, his thick rod penetrating her over and over again. She was losing her mind with how good he made her feel and her back bowed, choked gasps and cries leaving her lips.
Her worries about Igneel were tossed out the window as Natsu invaded her head instead. With the way he was so deep inside of her and so hot against her body. And the way he rocked his hips as if he was some fucking professional that knew her body more than she did.
And he did.
She wouldn't deny him that much. He knew what she liked down to the tee and how to get her riled up just like she was now.
He grabbed her head to twist her into a heated kiss, tongues clashing as he swallowed her gurgles. His hips never stopped his jack-hammering as the slick sounds of her pussy sucking him back in filled the bathroom. It was addicting and the two were shaking with so much lust and desperation that they didn't care about anything else but finishing the job.
Her eyes rolled back when she felt Natsu's finger rub frantic circles on her clit and her knees buckled, a throaty moan being swallowed by his greedy mouth.
"Cum on my cock, baby girl, I want to feel you," he purred against her mouth, fingers wrapping around her throat to squeeze gently. "Show me how good it feels."
Her entire world was shattering around her as her vision sparked of stars and white light. Her pussy throbbed and fluttered against his thickness, a whine and a moan mixing into one tumbling out of her swollen lips.
"Natsu!"
"Fuck yes, Lucy," he groaned against her cheek, pressing her into his face as his thrusts became sloppy. "I'm about to cum." His whimper tipped her off the edge and she was slamming her hips back against him to help him reach the finish line.
The feeling of his hot seed filling her up made her back straighten and she cried out, desperately clawing at the tile wall to find something to ground her. If it wasn't for Natsu's arm that held her up, she most definitely would have fallen over as she gasped for air in the hot steamy room. With Natsu's harsh breath against her neck and the hot water pouring out of the showerhead, it made the room feel one hundred times hotter than it should be and she felt a bit lightheaded.
She whimpered as he pulled himself out of her and his cum drip out of her, sliding down her thighs as they fought to catch their breaths.
Natsu let out a low whistle and she turned to see him running his hand through his damp hair, his body flexing under the shower. "I'll say that's a record," he grinned at her, cheeks flushed from their exercise. "I want to see if I can make you cum under thirty seconds next time."
"You came quick, too."
"Only because you did," he pulled her closer, the water now spraying over her own body. "As much as I love taking my time worshiping this body of yours," his hands slid down her back and around her curves, taking a handful of her ass as he cupped her cheeks. "I like to see you cum."
"You horny bastard," she smiled, wagging her finger in his face as he playfully tried to take a bite.
"Don't think I don't see how you look at me," he smirked, leaning down to bump noses with her as she flushed. "Like I said, I would take you anytime, anywhere."
"I don't doubt it," she rolled her eyes, allowing him to pepper kisses against her jawline. "Now come on, your dad could be home by now. We need to hurry."
"Yes, dear." He said as if it was a rehearsed line and she couldn't help but grin.
By the time the two were done showering and Lucy fought off Natsu's advances, again, they were dressed for the day. Lucy opted for her favorite pink and stars swimsuit underneath her denim shorts and tank top. Natsu praised her for her appearance, husky murmurs and purrs echoing in her ear as his searing hot hand pressed into her exposed shoulder.
The blonde could only shiver and flush, swatting at the laughing man who dodged her attacks with speed and diligence.
Lucy could only chase the said maniac down the hall and stairs until they were barreling through the kitchen where a startled Igneel jumped half a mile at their entrance.
"Why, good morning!" He nearly shouted, a wide grin on his face while he held onto a spatula in one hand. His signature kitty apron was wrapped around his body and he was just like a little kid trapped in an adult's body, all grins and sunshine. "Breakfast is nearly done. Could you feed Happy, Natsu?"
"Aye, sir!" Natsu was already moving to feed his furry friend while Lucy approached the older man, a smile on her face.
"Anything I can help with?"
"Only help I need is to finish this off!" He held out a plate of pancakes out to the heiress, stacks of flapjack wobbling in his wake. "Set that on the table, dear, the bacon should be done shortly!"
"Bacon!" Natsu shrieked happily, his face beaming with joy. "Man, this is already a great start to the perfect day!" He was fist-pumping into the air while the sound of the rummaging of the desired cat food attracted the furry thing. Happy mewled happily as he rushed over to his friend's side, eager to get his fill of the day while Natsu got to work.
"Of course it is," Igneel snorted from the stove, spatula moving across the pan to cook his eggs. "Any day that starts with sex is always a good day."
It was as if the entire world came to a halt as the older Dragneel spoke so casually. The occasional clatter of his spatula hitting the pan while he scrambled eggs echoed and Igneel's soft hums but for the couple, it felt as if someone had punched both of them in the chest and forced the air out of their lungs. Anyone could hear the crickets that threatened to come out of hiding and Lucy felt all the blood rush out of her face while she stared wide eyed at her boyfriend who was also in the same position.
"What?" Natsu spat, breaking the silence first, can dangling from his finger while Happy tried to swat at it.
"What?" Igneel echoed back, blinking innocently as he plated the scrambled eggs.
"What did you just say?"
"About the sex?"
Natsu's eyes darted to Lucy's who was now blushing beet red, steam streaming out of her ears. He felt the twitch of his lips and he couldn't help but feel amused at the way Lucy was sputtering.
"I thought you were out."
"I was," Igneel hummed, ignorant to the way Lucy was staring at him with a horrified look on her face. "And then I come back to you mounting your girlfriend in my home. At least the eggs aren't the only thing scrambled this morning."
Silence mushroomed itself between them again and Lucy could only squeak, quickly excusing herself while she ran out of the house. Natsu watched in full amusement as his girlfriend made a dash for it and he watched her disappear till he looked back at his happy-go-lucky father.
"You're a dick for that. She was already reluctant to do it and now she's going to yell at me for it later." Natsu said and he watched Igneel's lips curve up into a smirk.
"I know. That's why I said it."
—X—
Now, Lucy wouldn't really call herself a city girl or really a country bumpkin but she for sure knew she was not meant for this type of lifestyle. The great outdoors with vast amounts of land and scenery was beautiful no doubt but the fact that the other things outweigh it's value made Lucy's interest plummet like a meteor crash landing.
The mosquitoes, the flying insects, the humid air, the many dangerous plants Natsu had to guide her away from, and of course, the terrifying creatures of the woods. Like bears and cougars and coyotes. Natsu assured her he hadn't seen any predators of that sort in many years so she had nothing to worry about.
But the idiot still admitted to seeing them so they definitely were around.
Knowing her luck, they would probably stumble across a pack of wolves or a den of bears.
She trusted Natsu enough to keep her away from danger but could she trust him to be able to fight off a goddamn bear? Gajeel could. She didn't doubt that. But her little ball of sunshine who adores all things shiny? Maybe.
"How much longer, Natsu? I have more mosquito bites than I can count on my fingers."
"Not much longer, babe," he laughed as he held her hand through the weaves of plant life. The trail that led to this stream was deep rooted into the ground as if everyone and anyone came down these hills. "Hang in there. I promise it'll be worth it."
"It would be if I could have had some bug spray," the heiress grumbled under her breath, watching her footing as they stepped over a fallen log.
It was wild to her that the Dragneel's refused to use bug spray due to the smell. The smell wasn't supposed to be the attractive part of the whole thing. It was to keep the insects away so she didn't look like she had hives all over her body but no, they don't even have a drop of insect repellent anywhere because it would, in Natsu's world, fucking kill them.
Now, she wasn't so giddy about having to trek through wildlife to find this mysterious stream because now, she was tired, sweaty, and bit the fuck up.
And it didn't help that Natsu would swat her hand away anytime she went to scratch at it.
"You owe me for this," she sighed tiredly and her boyfriend's deep chuckle vibrated through her entire body.
"Whatever my princess desires," he purred and she couldn't help but smile at that.
The only thing that kept her going was the promise of water, the blonde eager to take a swim. The hot humid air made her sticky and the sun that hung very high above them produced such strong heat that she was surprised there hadn't been a wild fire nearby.
She had fun trekking through the land and seeing new, fresh life sprouting but like she said, she needs some goddamn insect repellent and she needs it now.
Lucy slapped herself on the arm as she saw another blood sucker land on her, her skin turning a bright red as the remnants of the flatten mosquito splattered across her skin.
Finally after what felt like walking for miles, Natsu had pushed past a particularly bushy tree out the way and Lucy was in awe at the sight in front of her. The soft sounds of the water rushing downhill along with the clear bright blue water had her eyes widening in appreciation and approval. The stream was wide enough that anyone wouldn't be able to jump across but it didn't look too deep for her to be forced underwater. Beautiful full greenery filtered around, allowing privacy for those who lurk and she honestly was grateful that Natsu had forced her to continue following him to bumfuck for the last twenty minutes.
At least she didn't have to carry anything (mainly because she refused and whined but more because Natsu didn't want her to handle his precious fishing rods) because she made a break for it and left her boyfriend behind to approach the water.
Natsu cried out for her to wait up but she ignored him, desperate for a dunk in the cool water and to soothe out all the bite marks that were painted across her body.
The blonde kicked off her shoes and pulled her tank top off in one swift motion, tossing the articles of clothing down next to her on the patch of grass away from the water. She finally unbuttoned her shorts, yanking the denim down her legs while kicking it off.
"Come on, Natsu!" She squealed excitedly, running to the edge of the water while her boyfriend finally caught up. By the time he was unloading his bag of his fishing gear, Lucy was splashing against the edge of the water, cool water absorbing her heat and sweat.
Lucy groaned out in pleasure, enjoying the way the water caressed her skin and she went further in, finding a dip where she was able to submerge herself into the depths. The water was cool enough it made her skin break out in goosebumps and send a shiver down her back but it was hot out so it instantly cooled her down. She moaned out, submerging herself till her shoulders as she tossed her head back into the surface of the water. She could feel her hair swirl and float around her body, golden hues reflecting off of her.
"Come on, Natsu! The water is so nice!" She called for the rosy-haired student who had finally dropped all his things. He kicked his own shoes off, yanking his shirt over his shoulders before he was running towards her.
He was quick to dive into the waters, a large wave of water washing over her own body as the surface dipped. He emerged from the top, flicking his wet hair away from his face while he grinned.
"Man, it does feel nice!" He agreed, throwing his arms above him as he groaned. He leaned back against the water, enjoying the feel of the cold water cooling down his overheated skin. "I can stay here all day." He moaned and Lucy was giggling, swimming over to her boyfriend.
She circled his body before she was latching onto him, arms circling around his shoulders while Natsu wrapped his around her waist. The two locked eyes, brown meeting black, with wide smiles and sparks of energy zapping through them.
"I'm glad you dragged me out here," she pressed a quick kiss against his lips. "This place is beautiful."
"I'm glad you like it," he spun them around slowly in the water creating a slight twirl of water. She giggled as he dragged her around the current, splashes of water flicked across the body of water.
The two swam and splashed around for a while, enjoying the water the water cooled them off from their mini hike. Eventually, Natsu had dragged Lucy down further where the stream dipped off into a waterfall over a small cliff. Wildlife surrounded them with trees full of life and wildflowers that poked through the dirt floor.
Natsu laid out a towel for her right beside him so she could sunbathe, a book already secured safely in the depths of his backpack and of course, refreshments.
"I would hardly call beer a refreshment." Lucy pursed her lips in slight disgust as Natsu pressed a cold can against her skin. She shrieked, swatting him away as he laughed and sipped at the foam that gathered.
"Beer is a refreshment. It's refreshing and it's liquid."
"Beer dehydrates you. All alcohol does."
"Nuh-uh."
Rolling her eyes, Lucy plopped down on her stomach as the towel absorbed whatever beads of water that clung onto her. She had packed a nice hat for this day, finally able to use it as Natsu had shoved it so deep in his backpack along with other important things, it wasn't available for use till now.
Natsu had made himself a nice seat to fish over the edge, his legs crossed and his shirt still missing as he untangled the fishing line. He expertly got it hooked and lined, messing around with a small tackle box he managed to shove into the backpack.
It was peaceful for her as she laid beside him soaking up the afternoon sun while she read. He was nice and quiet for once too, humming softly while he casted his line into the water.
"So, when are we heading to your place?" Natsu finally asked, breaking the silence as Lucy found a spot to stop on, fingertip pressed against the paper to keep her place.
She hummed in thought, kicking her leg back and forth. "Maybe after the weekend. I haven't called my dad yet."
"Is he expecting you home?"
"Eventually." She shrugged, looking at the male who looked back at her. He leaned against the back of his palm, muscle looking too delicious and skin looking a bit darker from the sun. "It's not like he really notices. We don't ever spend time together."
"Maybe I could change that."
Lucy snorted. "I doubt it. I doubt he'll even really acknowledge you. He's never cared about my interests before." She went back to reading, legs continuing to bounce back and forth in the air.
She felt Natsu's warm hand land on her back and she twisted her head to look back at him. "You never know. Maybe he'll fall in love with me at first glance like his daughter did." He snickered at the way Lucy rolled her eyes, a small smile curving on her lips.
"It wasn't love at first sight."
"Liar." He teased, crawling over to lay beside her on his stomach. She scooted over slightly so he could have more space but he was still stuck to her side as if he would tip off the edge and fall to his doom. "It's okay if you did."
"I think you're forgetting who said I love you first in this relationship," she teased right back and the apple of his cheeks dusted light pink.
Natsu nudged her shoulder, his bangs just barely covering his eyes. "Just because I said it first doesn't mean I felt it first."
"Now who's the liar?"
Lucy giggled sweetly as Natsu planted a kiss on her pink lips, his strong arm tossed around her back to lock her into place.
If only she could freeze time so she could spend endless amounts of time with her lover just like now. Maybe he was right. Maybe she did fall in love first and felt it all before they had made it to this level. She did find him utterly irresistible and sexy when she first laid her eyes on him but he was dripping wet and in a towel covering his precious jewels so how could she not? Anyone would have fallen in love at that moment and she wasn't ashamed to admit to it.
A part of her wished they could live in this moment forever, her cheeks hurting from the way she smiled or how hot her skin felt when he would press his lips against it. Natsu never failed to make her doubt his loyalty and love for her.
And suddenly, Lucy finally could say she knew what love felt and looked like.
It looked and felt like Natsu.
Taking in a deep breath, Lucy exhaled loudly as she forced herself to calm her nerves. She's never had a hard time calling her daddy before so she didn't understand why she did now. His contact was bright and almost a bit painful to stare at as she held her cellphone in a death grip.
The couple had returned hours later when the sun began to dip down and the water grew cold. Natsu managed to catch four different types of fish within the couple hours and she never found him cuter than he was when he was all wide-eyed and sparkly holding up his catches of the day. The fish wiggled around furiously in his grip, fins flapping as he held it by their open mouths.
He was so giddy about his catch that she couldn't help but giggle at his adorable face, cheering him on and giving him as many kisses she could muster. He was drunk on her endless kisses and the adrenaline that coursed through his body. He was so excited to show his dad and have him make them one of his favorite meals, fried fish, for dinner.
He said he doesn't have much luck when fishing in those parts of the water since so many people swim and mess up the wildlife during the summer. He claimed she was his good luck charm and ravished her for her deed even though she did nothing but lay next to him reading.
She didn't complain though as he ate her out in the middle of the woods, the soft white noise of the stream masking her moans while he mouth fucked her.
And now with them back home with Natsu inside shouting about his catch and running his old man down to the ground, Lucy excused herself outside to finally call up her father.
In all honesty, she hadn't called him in a while. Not since spring break. She didn't really find the need to or find the time to since she was so occupied with her boyfriend. He still continued to send her messages once in a while to show her he was thinking about her but she never got to sending him a message back.
She loves her daddy. Whole-heartedly even when he does it half-heartedly. She never got the chance to ever develop a relationship with her father in ways where she could find comfort in him but at least he was still around. He still showered her with gifts and money whenever he could so she knew he still loves and cares for her.
Maybe that was what made her think she might have not loved Natsu. He showed his love through his actions, not just his words and or gifts. She didn't think this type of love was possible, only believing it happened to very few people or in stories because she was never shown this type of love. Such a soft, innocent (maybe not so innocent since their entire relationship was based on lust?) love that Natsu coaxed her into without trying.
Her heart melted at the thought of her boyfriend and she could still hear his loud cackles from inside. She loves him and she felt it was right to bring him home to her father. Natsu deserves that much and so does her father.
Even if he wasn't going to care.
Taking in a deep breath, her heart thundered inside her chest while the call rang. Her grip on the rectangular device was tight, knuckles turning white without her knowledge while she began to pace.
He always picks up after the third ring and his voice was surprisingly nice to hear.
"Hi, daddy," she had a small smile as her father spoke excitedly over the other line, cooing at his baby girl he missed dearly. "I'm expected to come home after this weekend."
"Wonderful!" he sounded genuinely pleased to hear. "Daddy has a nice surprise for you when you return! I'll have Mrs. Spetto make all your favorite dishes, too! Your room has been kept the same way it has been since you left."
"Great," she gave herself a pep talk, inhaling shakily. "Um, but I'm not coming by myself." She gnawed on her bottom lip as her father spoke. "Uh, um, he's, uh, he's my boyfriend. I'm bringing my boyfriend." She held her breath as the other line went quiet. She silently wondered to herself if she might have enough signal for him to be able to hear her or if the call had dropped, her hand reeling away to glance at the ongoing conversation before she pressed her phone back to her ear. "Daddy? Are you still there?"
"I'm still here, sunshine." His voice rang in her ear. "You said boyfriend? For how long?"
"Um, just a couple months but we've been seeing each other longer than that. I… I love him, daddy and I want you to meet him."
Jude was quiet once more, his soft hums vibrating through the call while she waited for his answer.
She felt like a goddamn kid telling her father she lost her virginity for fuck sakes. Why did she feel so embarrassed and shy to admit to her father that she had a boyfriend and loves him? She was glad Natsu wasn't around to see her so painfully awkward.
"Well, I look forward to meeting this boy who has gained your interest."
"He's not a boy, daddy," she rolled her eyes, a small sense of relief washing over her. "He's a man. Twenty-two and an engineering major at MU."
"Engineering?" He echoed in slight interest. "Hmm, okay. So shall I expect you two on Monday?"
"Yes, daddy. We'll be there."
Lucy felt so much lighter after her conversion, a wide smile on her lips while she tossed her arms in the air, stretching while groaning. What did she have to be so nervous about? Of course her father would be supportive and neutral about everything she would do or say. She was his little princess and if her bank account didn't prove that, she didn't know how else to claim her worth on this man.
Skipping back into the log cabin, Lucy was in a very good mood as she approached the Dragneel's. Natsu was in a very heated conversation with his father about god knows what while he was skinning the fish he had caught earlier in the day. Igneel was in charge of seasoning and frying the fish as one of them sizzled very loudly on a pan already.
Natsu noticed his golden beauty return and he beamed, his invisible tail wagging as she came near.
"Everything alright?"
"Everything is just perfect," she leaned in to kiss him on the cheek, her smile refusing to leave her lips as he chased her lips. "How is dinner coming along?"
"Just great," Igneel responded while he patted the fish with flour in a bowl. "Should be ready in the next thirty!"
"My dad is trying to say he would much rather battle a chicken every time he got in the car than the damn lion once a year." Natsu went back to his original argument, needing backup support to his argument.
Lucy rolled her eyes, crossing her arms across her chest. "This stupid thing again? You are always pestering people about this."
"Because the obvious choice is the lion! It's once a year! You can train for it and beat it rather than having to fight a chicken every time you get into a car. Once a year verses maybe every other day? Fuck that!"
Lucy exchanged knowing looks with Igneel who gave her the look of 'it's not too late to run' and she could only laugh.
.
.
.
After a well deserved home cooked meal, Lucy found herself sitting outside on the patio of Igneel's home. The nightlife was more alive than the day as the cridders came out to sing their songs. Crickets chirped, owls hummed, and she swore she could even hear the occasional croaks of frogs and toads. It was nearly pitch black out where they were, the blonde barely able to see a foot in front of her but the nice dark twinkling sky helped as the large moon casted its beauty upon earth.
The fresh outdoors allowed her to get energized and bring in a nice comforting feel to her body. She had found herself liking the smell and area in the couple days she had been posted here. She could see where Natsu got his wild side from as his father had one hell of a personality that bounced around.
She really enjoyed Igneel and his company as much as she would say about his son. He kept conversations going and kept things light between the trio.
He would crack jokes that would have her spilling tears and smiling from the stories he would indulge her in throughout dinner.
Igneel was such a dad, he was upgraded to daddy in her head. He was such a handsome, kind, funny man that she was swoon to him the moment he was cooking her meals and making her giggle.
Natsu was not a fan. Especially when she said Igneel was such a daddy (or DILF), he was gawking at her as if she had murdered his precious cat.
Now he was somewhere in the house sulking while she was outside in the wild, sipping at a nice warm cup of lavender tea with a promise of getting her shit rocked by her boyfriend sometime.
The sound of the door opening had her expecting the said man but she was surprised how Igneel came outside, a bright smile on his face as he approached.
"I'm surprised you're out here on your own. Where's my idiot son?"
"Somewhere in the house," she waved her hand dismissively, setting down her cup on the small side table beside her chair. "Would you like to take a seat?"
"Would love to," he murmured, taking long strides to come sit down at the chair beside her. The wooden chair squeaked under his weight and he got himself comfortable while Lucy kicked her legs out from underneath her, grounding her to the floor. "What are you doing out here?"
"Just taking in your land, sir," Lucy offered a smile. "I love what you have going on. Very peaceful out in your neck of the woods."
"I'm sure you need it considering you have my son glued to your side twenty-four-seven." He muttered but Lucy heard him, a loud laugh flying out of her lips. "You're good for him. Too good."
"I can't take all the credit, Natsu is also very good for me. Too good if you would say," she gave him a playful wink his way and he was chuckling, shaking his head back and forth as his red hair whooshed around. "He's a great man. You did great."
Igneel's smile turned into a softer one, the crinkles at the corner of his eyes pressing out while he looked out. The large moon shined down on them through the branches of the trees, the soft evening wind forcing them to dance.
"He has grown into a fine man…" Igneel agreed, his head tilted up to stare at the stars. "I was really worried his past would impact him too harshly. He wasn't always like this."
"Natsu told me a little about it. He said you adopted him when he was around seven or eight and it's always been just you two."
"Ah, yes," the older man sighed, sounding a bit too sad at the moment. "I was working in social services at the time. I saw a lot of kids who needed homes and a nice warm meal… It isn't an easy job." He took a glance over at Lucy who nodded, waiting for him to continue as she had become invested into the story. "Well, one day I was called to this one home further down south. Said that there was a complaint about some kid causing a ruckus without the sight of an adult so imagine my surprise when I stumble upon this pink-haired ball of fire who is spewing lava out of his mouth as if I was the one to hurt him. He couldn't even speak properly."
Igneel's laugh sounded genuine at the moment and Lucy couldn't help but smile sadly.
"He said he's been on his own for as long as he could remember and it was so sad to think this little boy was alone. He didn't even remember what his parents looked like or who they were. He was no more than five or six at the time. I took him with me and it pained me to see him so alone. He wasn't like the other kids with his fiery spirit and destructive behavior. He was moved a couple of times because he had said something wild or set something on fire."
"I see he didn't change too much." Lucy giggled.
"No, he hasn't in that aspect. But he's less.. angry, now. He used to be so angry as a child, stomping around and cursing out anyone at the age of six. I finally decided to adopt him officially after fostering him for a year so Natsu is correct, it was when he was seven or eight." Igneel looked up to the stars as if the answer was right in front of him. "But it took me many years to finally get him to open up and try living. He's always been a bold statement, saying whatever was on his mind and not caring about the consequences of his actions."
"Once he started to attend the local school down the street, he had gotten into one too many fights that I had a hard time finding a place that would take him," Igneel was giggling to himself, remembering the times like it was just yesterday. "I don't know how many times we moved because that little rascal couldn't keep his hands to himself."
"That must have been so difficult to manage on your own."
"Not that bad," Igneel held his hand up, shaking his head. "I wasn't always alone. I was madly in love at one point."
"What… happened?" Lucy asked cautiously, unsure if she wanted to open that can of worms.
The corners of his mouth curved up as if he was still in love, his features softening as he placed his hand on his chest and looked up at the stars. "She was taken from me a bit too soon. That was just a year prior to when I had met Natsu. She was the love of my life, always so full of love and adventure. She was everything I lacked and she showed me how to love so openly." He looked down at his lap as if he was remembering her. "I felt like she was telling me to take him in. To raise him. To show him what a proper loving home is like." He let out a sigh as if someone had kissed him on the forehead. "Her name was summer." He turned to grin at her, rows of teeth flashing her way. "So naturally I name my son after her."
Lucy felt her heart warm at the story, her hands flying to her chest to clutch onto it.
As if she didn't love this man and his son enough, her heart beat for them. It cried for them and held onto the sad story so tightly it made her bottom lip wobble.
To think these two had gone through so much in their lifetime made her sad. She just wanted to wrap them up in her arms and protect them herself. Nobody deserves such a sad, lonely life.
"Well, at least you two have each other." Lucy smiled at the red-haired man. "Natsu adores you."
"Not as much as he does you, my dear." Igneel rapped his knuckles against the side table, chuckling at her flushed expression. "I have never seen my son so happy and so in love."
"Surely you have met Lisanna."
"Lisanna?" Igneel echoed, scratching at his chin as he hummed. "Is that Natsu's ex-girlfriend from high school? The silver-haired one?"
"Yes."
"Huh, I didn't think you would know about her."
"Well, I happen to be in the same sorority as her older sister, Mirajane. And she just visited not too long ago. She lives in Edolas and attends school over there."
Igneel's eyes widened just a bit, his gaze on the blonde beside him. "No kidding. Well, good for her!" He was nodding in approval as if he was proud. "But no, not even her. Natsu was definitely fixated on her for a bit considering they were very good friends but he doesn't look at her the way he looks at you."
"And how does he look at me?" Lucy asked curiously, her hands finding her warm cup of tea once more.
Igneel was silent for a minute before his eyes found hers, the words leaving his mouth making her entire body freeze over.
"Like you're the only person that's ever mattered to him."