Chapter 20: Hell of a Summer
As the soft and warm rays of the sun slip inside the room, Lucy sighs contently. It had been long since she slept well and woke up to the sound of waves crashing. Slowly, she opened her eyes and was immediately greeted by the sea view on their open terrace.
She smiles softly in appreciation of how her morning begins when she suddenly remembers sharing the room with the Dragneel president. Feeling curious if Natsu was still in bed like her, she gently lifted her head to peek at the other side of the bed. But to her surprise, his side was tidy, as if he didn't lie down there.
Suddenly, someone enters the room, causing the blonde to shriek.
Natsu quickly stopped by the door, "You're awake," he stated before scratching his head in timidity, "Did I wake you?"
Lucy stared bafflingly at the pinkette, who slowly entered the room and closed the door. At first, she wondered where he had been when, suddenly, she took notice of his appearance. It shouldn't have shocked her because she knew he had slept shirtless last night. But for some reason, seeing him without a shirt and just with a towel hanging low onto his narrow hips, she couldn't help but be flustered.
"Wha-what-Why are you wet?" Lucy confusingly shook her head as she sat up. She immediately looked away and hid the embarrassment by running her fingers through her hair to fix it.
"Uh, I took a shower," Natsu replies, a little confused by her question.
Lucy stared at him, puzzled, until it finally clicked in her mind, "Right, yeah, obviously. Sorry, stupid question,"
Natsu chortles in amusement, shaking his head as he walks further into the room. Droplets from his drenched hair then fell on his chest, making Lucy focus on the trail it was making on his body.
"Luce," Natsu calls to the blonde without looking. But when she made no sound, he saw her concentrating on something, making him wonder what was on her mind, "Hey, Luce, you okay?"
"Huh—what?" Lucy muttered, snapping out of her trance, "Did you say something?"
Natsu grins, "I asked if you were okay. You were thinking so hard that your forehead was wrinkling," he then chuckles when she unwrinkled her forehead.
"I wasn't thinking anything," She denied, despite the warmth she was feeling on her cheeks, "It's…my morning brain,"
Natsu couldn't help but laugh again, "All this time, I thought you were a morning person,"
Lucy huffed a laugh, "Well if I had a choice, I don't really like waking up early. Especially when I'm supposed to be on vacation,"
Natsu looked back at her as he took a seat by the end of the bed on his side, "You are on vacation,"
Lucy tilts her head as she hums in thought, "Am I?" she teased.
He scoffs a laugh in reply, looking away again as he starts rampaging his bag. "Based on a technicality, that is why we are here. But I know that this is not the kind of vacation you were expecting,"
"I wasn't expecting this as a vacation," Lucy answers. When she noticed him getting a little more restless as he went through his bag, she began to be curious about what the fuss was all about. She leaned closer and asked, "What are you looking for?"
"Ha! Found it!" He exclaims before showing the item to Lucy, "This one,"
"What's this?" Lucy then reads the box from Natsu, "Motion sickness patches?"
He scratches his head once again, fully facing the blonde this time. "Yeah, about that…I have an extreme case of motion sickness that I can't use any transportation without pouring my guts out unless I'm the one driving it,"
Lucy stared bewildered at him for a moment before looking at the box in her hand, "How come I didn't notice it?"
"I take medication," Natsu shrugs, "Or if I didn't want to, I usually drive myself,"
"How come yesterday? Our trip was long, and you didn't throw up," Lucy said, then handed the box back to Natsu.
"I drank my medicines and had the patch a day before, which makes the effect last longer and stronger. It's not quite a good feeling after taking it off, but it's necessary," Natsu then stood up before the blonde. "Speaking of motion sickness, do you mind helping me put these patches on my back?"
"Oh," Lucy flushed a little before pulling the blanket off her and standing up, "Sure, take a seat,"
Natsu immediately did that and showed his back to Lucy. At first, she wasn't sure how she'd do it, but when he told her that it was simply putting the patches on his shoulder blades and at the middle of the back of his neck, she shakingly placed them.
"There, all done," Lucy mumbled, tapping him on his bare shoulders.
"Thanks," Natsu replies, smiling as he faces her, "I guess I should have told you sooner because this is quite a giveaway,"
"Giveaway?" Lucy raised a brow.
Natsu nods, "If Mom discovered you didn't know about my motion sickness, she'd figure us out immediately. She knows that I only tell people who are close to me about my condition. And you, as my girlfriend, should have known,"
"Oh," Lucy sighed in defeat, "Well, are there other sickness I should be aware of?"
Natsu shook his head, "Nah, just that,"
"Just that?" Lucy scoffs before she chuckles with the pinkette, "Well, I hope you told me everything I need to know because this is day one, Natsu Dragneel. Day one."
"I know," Natsu grinned, making Lucy roll her eyes before shaking her head as she stepped out of the room.
Sitting at a long table with everyone else, eating breakfast, Lucy refuses to raise her eyes as the pinkette sits before her. The image of the pink-haired president that morning was still stuck in her mind, making her blush furiously as she tried to eat her fruits.
Noticing the bashful blonde, Levy subtly leaned close to her and whispered, "Is it just me, or are you blushing?"
"Huh?! What? No!" Lucy defensively answered, too loud for her liking. She immediately regretted it as a few members looked back at her curiously. She tried to brush it off as she gave a sheepish laugh.
Levy couldn't help but chuckle at the blonde. The blunette finally gave up and looked at her best friend, "What's gotten into you?"
"Hmm?" Lucy purred, pursing her lips as she glanced at the blunette, "Nothing," she said, despite the betrayal of the color on her face.
Levy squints her eyes, "Your whole face tells something else,"
"Levy-chan," Lucy whispered, gritting her teeth, "drop it,"
Levy grinned wide as she knew there was some story to be told. She nodded, then shrugged it off. She returned to her plate, "Alright if you say so. But I bet it's a great story,"
Lucy's eyes grew big as she eyed the blunette, who quickly chuckled at her expression.
"What's wrong?" Natsu suddenly spoke, grabbing the two women's attention.
"Nothing," Lucy quickly answers and then immediately looks down at her plate as she remembers what she was blushing about.
Natsu couldn't help but raise a brow at the blonde's reaction. But before he could comment, someone suddenly clapped their hands, snatching everyone's attention.
"Hello, my lovely family!" Grandine chimes as she smiles sweetly at each person at the table, "I hope you had a peaceful sleep last night,"
Everyone immediately chatters in agreement and expresses their enthusiasm. Grandine couldn't help but smile even more as she felt proud of her accomplishment.
"I'm glad everyone is enjoying themselves," Grandine then winked at Wendy, who was snickering in amusement, "So this is officially our first day in Tenrou, and I have laid out tons of activities we can all enjoy doing together,"
The ladies then cheered in excitement while the men quietly groaned before they shoved a spoonful of their breakfast into their mouths. Lucy softly chuckles as she observes each family member.
Grandine gave a stink eye to the men, who immediately smiled back to appease her. The blue-haired mother rolled her eyes at them, "Anyways, these activities are not meant to bore anyone. Since I know that each of you is competitive, I have planned that our first day in Tenrou would be our new tradition, which is a family Olympics,"
People at the table moaned in amusement, looking at one another with renewed interest. Lucy and Levy then looked at each other as they thought about how likely they'd get stuck with undoubtedly competitive people.
"So, we have a few sports we're going to have, a group relay, and some fantastic prizes," Grandine grinned when the men at the table whooped in excitement. That grabbed their attention, "But of course, it won't be easy. You'll be grouped randomly," Grandine then looked at Lucy with a sharp stare, "I'm sure we'll all enjoy this,"
Seeing the intense look of the mother, Lucy couldn't help but gulp the water in her glass as she looked away and stared at Natsu instead, who seemed unaware of the looming storm.
"Gather, everyone!" Sefera shouted as she stood by the beach, with her sun hat fabulously placed on her head, "We'll do our groupings now!"
"This is it!" Metalicana bellowed before he sprinted toward his wife, "I'm going to win this thing!"
"And who said you'd win?" Gajeel grunts as he follows behind his father and holds hands with Levy.
Levy stifles her laughter as she watches the son and father banter immediately.
"Why are you doubting your old man?!" Metalicana retorts, pouting as his son raises his brow, "You should be rooting for me!"
"And why'd I do that? I will win this game, not you,"
"Wha—?!" the older man gawked, "It's a group game!"
"So?!" Gajeel retorts back, "Levy and I will win!"
"Not unless we win!" another suddenly chimes in, making Gajeel and Metalicana turn and see Sting and Rogue standing behind them.
The black-haired man suddenly points at the blonde, stating casually, "It was him, not me,"
"Ah! You punk—!" Metalicana bellowed when suddenly a louder voice shouted.
"Shut up!"
Everyone glanced around and immediately saw a fuming pink-haired woman, "I will start knocking your heads together if you don't stop talking!"
"HAI!" everyone cried out as they choked back their fear.
"Good," Sefera said menacingly at them before she looked back at the crowd and smiled widely again. "Alright, pair up with your partners or whoever is close to you right now. We'll do rock-paper-scissors,"
As everyone followed the woman's instructions, Levy and Lucy stood nervously next to each other as they watched everyone scramble to find their place. Gajeel stood beside Levy while Natsu was on Lucy's right side. They leaned close to each other, and the blunette whispered, "I think this clan has quite the temper,"
Lucy only pursed her lips as she tried not to laugh. "I sort of got that impression early on," she then glanced at the blue-haired mother, who stood by the side, watching everyone. She could see that particular look in her that she was analytically thinking of something. When suddenly, their eyes met.
The blonde couldn't help but yelp briefly before turning to Natsu.
"What's wrong?" Natsu curiously asked as he felt Lucy grab his arm and squeeze it firmly, "You okay?"
"I made eye contact," Lucy mumbled worriedly.
"Eye contact?" Natsu furrows his brow, confused by the second, "What are you talking about?"
"Your mom," Lucy grits her teeth. And soon, in her peripheral view, she notices someone walking up to them.
"Ladies,"
Lucy and Natsu slowly turned their attention to Grandine, who was smiling sweetly at them.
"Shouldn't you four start doing rock-paper-scissors?" Grandine then gestures to the others, having a small battle with each other, "Let me remind you, you're going to compete with your partners,"
"What? But I want to team up with Lucy," Natsu then wrapped an arm around Lucy's bare waist, "You know how competitive I could be, Mom. I need someone as competitive as me,"
Grandine gives a long swipe of look at them before ending her gaze at the blonde, "Well, that makes it more interesting. I want to see Lucy to be competitive. I'm quite competitive, too, Natsu. You know that."
"Wait, you're playing?" Natsu bafflingly looked at his mother.
Grandine shrugged, grinning, "Who said I'm not?" She walked away, clapping, grabbing everyone's attention.
When the blue-haired mother was far enough, the double couple huddled subtly while keeping their eyes on everybody.
"So, what's the plan?" Levy asked.
Natsu grunts in displeasure before sighing, "Gajeel, you and Lucy won. Levy and I lost. You protect Lucy, I protect Levy,"
Gajeel throws a glare at his cousin, "You better,"
"Shut up, just do your part," Natsu then walked away and announced that he had lost the game. Levy took that as her cue and exclaimed the same thing. Sefera immediately pointed them to the lost group.
As Lucy and Gajeel stayed behind a little later, Lucy kept her attention to the blue-haired mother. She had a calm face and smiled sweetly to whoever talked to her. But every time Grandine glanced at her, she felt a shiver run through her spine.
"What group do you think Grandine will join in?" Lucy asked anxiously.
"Oh, you can bet, whatever your group is, is where she'll be," Gajeel then huffed a chortle, earning him a glare from the blonde.
"You do know you're not helping me relax,"
Gajeel looked at her, smirking, "I know. Who said I'm trying to?" he teased before laughing heartily and walking away, "Come on, bunny girl, time to win!"
Lucy heaved deeply, starting to hate her morning.
… … …
"First game!" Grizela shouts on top of a beach bench, "Bucket water relay!"
Weisslogia and Grasia started handing out red cups to each player while Grizela explained the mechanics. It was the usual family game. The only difference was that they would get the water from the ocean and then pass it backward to the next person. There was a high chance of drenching the next person while passing it.
"Gajeel, I'm telling you, if you drop one bit of water on me, I'll kick you right at your groin, making you childless in the next decade," Lucy threatened with gritted teeth, making the man roll his eyes.
Before he could comment, someone suddenly touched his arm, making him turn. He raised a brow at Grandine, who stood beside him out of nowhere.
"Why don't I stand before you?" Grandine offered with an amused smile, "That way, there is no need to threaten this man," she then chuckled at Gajeel's confused face, "I think Fera would want grandchildren someday,"
"Uhh—"
"I was just kidding," Lucy bluntly countered, hoping to change the woman's mind, "He kept on teasing me,"
"Oh, I know," Grandine regarded the blonde. She then tilts her head, smiling, "But I insist. I promise I won't dose you with ocean water,"
Lucy stared, gawping, before she tried to cover it up with an awkward laugh. "I believe you, but—"
"Please?" Grandine gave a pouty smile, making it more awkward for Lucy.
Sighing in defeat, she nodded, "Alright, if that would make us win, why not?" She gave a crooked smile before Grizela started shouting again that the game was about to start.
… … …
Natsu stood behind Levy, unhurriedly waiting for the blunette to pour the water. Even if the others were already shrieking in excitement and hurry, Natsu couldn't care more about winning the game. He glanced at Lucy's team and saw they were just like them. But he couldn't see Lucy within the line until he heard a loud shriek.
"Oh, I'm sorry, Lucy!"
Natsu's brow raised as soon as he heard his mother's voice. He tiptoed to see what was happening at the front and later saw Lucy suddenly step out of the line, shaking the water off her. She was drenched from head to upper body, gasping at the coldness of the water.
"I'm so clumsy, dear. I didn't mean to spill all of the water on you," Grandine exclaims, covering her lips in embarrassment.
"I-I-I'm f-fine," Lucy shivered at the coldness before wiping her face and splashing the water out of her hands, "It's just icy,"
"Natsu!" Levy suddenly shouts, snapping the pinkette out of his trance. Soon enough, he was also drenched in cold water before he could even grasp what was happening.
"SHIT!"
… … …
Sitting on the sand away from the group, Lucy, Natsu, Levy, and Gajeel stared at the whole clan while munching on their snacks. All the family members were animatedly chatting and laughing with each other while the double couple were taking their moment of peace.
Sighing exasperatedly, Lucy swallowed the last bite of her sandwich and crumpled the table napkin. Crossing her legs, she looked at her companions and ended her gaze at the pinkette next to her.
"I have a strong feeling she did that on purpose,"
Chewing his third sandwich, Natsu raised a brow at the blond and said, "Probably." He swallows his food and crumples his napkin, too. He then grabs Lucy's trash and keeps it to his side, "Give up already?"
Lucy scoffs in disbelief, "What do you think I am, Mr. Dragneel? I do not quit so easily,"
Natsu chuckles, shaking his head. Levy overhears their conversation and joins in, "Lu-chan is not the type to quit when someone tests her patience. In fact, it spurs her more. Right, Lu?"
"You bet," Lucy smirks at her best friend.
"So, why did you get wet, flame-brain?" Gajeel suddenly asks, reminding everyone that Natsu got drenched during the game.
Lucy chortles in delight at the flustered face of the pinkette, who is staring immensely at her. He then rolls his eyes, trying to show a little confidence despite the embarrassing moment.
"Levy was too short,"
Levy gasped audibly before hitting Natsu in the arm, "Excuse me! I called your attention before I poured that water,"
"Yeah, like a second later!" Natsu grumbles, leaning towards the blunette who was menacingly looking back at him.
Gajeel quickly comes to Levy's aid and pushes Natsu's forehead away, "You were just an idiot,"
"Who are you calling an idiot?!" Natsu bellowed, slightly sitting up, prompting his knee on the sand.
"Gentlemen,"
Natsu and Gajeel leave their argument and turn their attention to the newcomer. Lucy and Levy stiffened a little at the sudden entrance of the blue-haired mother.
"Mom, hi," Natsu sat back and tried to show he was relaxed despite the sudden surprise. He braced his left arm behind Lucy and purposefully placed his hand close to Lucy's bottom. The blonde could feel his hand, but she ignored the sudden contact as she kept her eyes on the woman before them.
"What's up?" Natsu added as he watched his mother's careful eyes, "The sandwiches were delicious, by the way,"
"Yes, this chicken salad sandwich is very satisfying," Lucy beamed as she leaned on Natsu, trying to show some skinship with the pinkette. "It was so good that this man ate three," she then glanced at Natsu and cupped his chin, squishing his cheeks and making him pucker his lips.
Natsu turned his head to the blonde and gave her a subtle glare. Her grip on his face was in no way affectionate as she squeezed his cheeks even more. But she laughed at his face and beamed at him.
Knowing she was teasing him, Natsu also decided to trick the blonde. So, without warning, Natsu leaned and pecked the corner of her lips, making the blonde yelp at the sudden contact.
Grandine quickly cleared her throat, snapping the two out of their private conversation, "Glad you both liked it,"
Levy and Gajeel stared, stunned at the two's banter. But when they heard Grandine speak, they had to peel their eyes away from the couple and glance at the blue-haired mother. Levy quickly spots the woman's uncomfortable stance. Silence immediately came, and Levy decided to cut off the growing awkwardness.
"So, Auntie Grandine, what's the next game? I'm quite pumped to start playing again,"
Grandine painstakingly looks away from her son and girlfriend to regard the blunette, "Well, I'm glad you're excited to play. We'll do beach volleyball,"
"Beach volleyball?" Natsu questioned, slightly pulling back from the blonde.
"Yeah. I think it's just the perfect game for a day on the beach. What do you think, Lucy?" Grandine tilts her head, looking back at the blonde.
"Uh, yeah," Lucy nods, gulping down her erratic nerves, "It's just fitting. Are we still on the same team?"
Grandine slowly grins, "No,"
"What?!" Natsu exclaimed, "That's not fair!"
Grandine raised her brow, "I'm the chair of games. I need to be fair, so I have to change teams, along with your Aunties,"
"So?" Levy then looks at Gajeel shortly before looking back at the grinning blunette, "You're on our team?"
"Exactly!" Grandine clapped her hands in excitement, "Let's win this, Levy,"
Levy awkwardly laughed, "Yeah, sure,"
"Mom! You can't play!" Natsu finally stands up, and the rest then follows.
"And why not?" Grandine challenges, crossing her arms.
"Didn't you tell us before that back in high school, you were a volleyball varsity player?"
Lucy gulps at the new information about the woman, making her suddenly nervous about playing.
Grandine chuckles, waving her hand, "Oh, don't be ridiculous, Natsu. That was so long ago, I'm probably rusty with playing," she then winked at Lucy, who could only nervously laugh as a response.
"So, let's play?" Grandine then turns away from them and starts calling everyone's attention.
When Grandine was out of earshot, Natsu looked at Lucy and gave a sheepish look. "Um, you do know how to play volleyball, right?"
Lucy blinked at him in a stupor, "Uh, yeah? Back in high school,"
"Good," Natsu placed his hands on the blonde's shoulder and gently squeezed it, "You might want to watch out for her spikes."
… … …
"I am really sorry, my dear," Grandine muttered as she sat squat before the blonde, "Who knew I could still do spikes?"
Lucy gritted her teeth before letting out a deep breath as if trying to calm her expression. "Natsu thought of it," she seethingly replied before loudly clapping and cleaning off the sand on her hands.
Grandine secretly smirked before she fixed her expression and stood up. She offered her hand, and the blonde reluctantly took it. When she pulled her up, and they were face to face, Grandine mumbled, "Well, then you should have listened," she gave a sarcastic smile before turning away and returning to her side of the court.
"Alright, our point, still my serve," Grandine eyed the blonde, who overtly exhaled, trying to school her face. "Ready, Lucy?"
Lucy narrows her eyes at the mother as a new wave of annoyance and stubbornness blooms in her chest. She immediately gave a sweet smile to the blunette, returning the favor of annoying her, "Of course, bring it on."
… … …
"You are a feral, Lu-chan," Levy mumbled in enthusiasm, looping her arm to Lucy's and pulling her aside as they headed back to the hotel, "I can't believe you'd go one-on-one with her,"
Lucy smugly smirked at her friend, "Well, she's been taunting me for a reaction, and now, I give her this," she then jumped to make a spike move, landing on her two feet like a champion.
The two girls laughed, paying no heed to other people.
Natsu and Gajeel walked behind them, walking slower than usual. The raven-haired man tilted his head in bewilderment as he stared at the ladies before them.
"How'd you exactly meet again?" Gajeel turned his attention to the pinkette, who was mum, as he also stared ahead.
"Sort of like a blind date, courtesy of Lisanna," Natsu heaved, "I have no idea she'd be this ferocious,"
Gajeel raised a brow, almost puzzled by his cousin's words, "Can't handle a woman like her?"
Natsu glances at him, "Who said I can't?"
"Well, you look unsure. You scared?" Gajeel teased, barking a laugh after.
The pinkette rolled his eyes and shook his head, "It's not me I'm worried about. I think it's mom who might not be able to handle her,"
Sitting comfortably on the beach chair, Lucy enjoys the respite that she has craved ever since she had to join the Dragneel clan for the summer. She knew this kind of peace would be short-lived, but she'd be grateful for whatever she could get.
It had been an hour since she quietly left the group, who were enjoying their chatter among themselves. Lounging in her chair with a book in hand, Lucy couldn't help but fall into the universe of the novel she was reading when suddenly, a loud sigh erupted, startling her.
Lucy's eyes grew big when she realized who had also stepped out, basking in the view before them. She stayed still, hoping her stillness would keep her invisible from the man's attention.
The red-haired man sighs again, this time with a sense of tiredness. This made Lucy curious as to what the man was thinking. Igneel Dragneel was not a talkative man around strangers but was boisterous, just like his son, when he was with his loved one.
Lucy hasn't really had a conversation with the man yet, not since the party, and she wonders what he's like.
"Enjoying your time?"
Lucy's heart skipped when the man spoke, addressing the question to her without looking. Soon enough, he glanced at her with a raised brow but had an amused face, grinning even more when he noticed how surprised the blonde was.
"Did I ruin your 'me time'?" Igneel chuckled before he headed towards another beach chair and lounged himself, "I didn't mean to surprise you,"
"Oh," Lucy quickly sat up and put her feet down, "No, you didn't. I was just—" she then stopped, thinking of how to say gently to him that she was trying to escape his wife's radar, "I just wanted to seize the moment of reading a book while the games were on pause,"
Igneel barked a laugh, resting his head back and slipping his shades on, "Not fond of my wife's Olympic games?"
Lucy gawped, "What? N-no, that's not what I meant—"
"Don't worry, I won't tell her," Igneel said, turning his head to her and grinning, "I love my wife dearly, but she is something, really something," he then looked away, still chuckling.
Lucy found herself stunned and speechless, unsure how to react. She wanted to agree with his comment, but doing it overtly would make her look suspicious.
Before she could decide on what to say, Igneel asked a question again that threw her for a loop, "How's your father?"
Lucy stiffened as she didn't expect the shift of topic. She somehow expected that the topic of her father would be brought up somehow, but dealing with and answering it for real was more challenging than she thought.
"U-um, papa is…busy," she replies, giving a vague and general description of what her father was mostly up to, "He's always been like that for years…so, nothing unusual,"
"He's mostly out of sight," Igneel turns to her, expression almost unreadable with the way his glasses obscured half his expression, "Do you know why?"
Lucy shook his head, "I don't question his decisions. As much as possible, I try not to get in his way,"
"Really?" Igneel pulls down his glasses slightly, showing his furrowed brows, "Why?"
She shrugs, "If it means not having him interfere with my work, then I'll do the same,"
Igneel then hums in agreement, placing his glasses back on and returning to his previous lying position. He crossed his arms and ankles, putting him further in a relaxed state.
When silence lingered, Lucy sighed heavily and quietly gathered her things. The man seemed to have fallen asleep, and Lucy didn't feel like staying around anymore to avoid any further conversation about her father. So, gently, Lucy stood up and headed inside the hotel. But before she could enter, Igneel caught up, saying, "Send my regards to your father, will ya?"
Lucy froze in her place but swallowed her unease, replying, "Sure, I'll let him know you said hi."
… … …
The day went on with more games initiated by the Marvell sisters and their husbands. Most of them had become louder and more competitive than they were in the morning. Grandine even became more persistent in testing the actress's patience, but to Natsu's surprise, the blonde seemed to shrug it off or didn't bother commenting. Lucy seemed to be mentally distant, even to his mother's taunts.
When the games finally ended with Natsu's team being hailed as the winner, he didn't bother to join the celebration and just quickly sought after his fake girlfriend. Everyone was at the beach, enjoying their time around the bonfire, but Lucy settled far away.
Lucy sat by the shore, close enough to be touched by the waves. It didn't bother her that she was getting wet the longer she sat there. She stared at the dark water, unaware that Natsu was approaching her.
So as not to startle the blonde, Natsu cleared his throat and waited for the blonde to look at him. As soon as she did, Natsu smiled briefly before pointing at a space next to the blonde, "May I?"
"Yeah, sure," Lucy quietly replies before looking back at the water again.
"You okay?" Natsu initiated gently, carefully testing the woman's present mood, "You seemed quiet even during the games,"
Lucy didn't immediately answer and let silence stay longer first before heaving deeply, "I'm fine,"
"No, you're not," Natsu contradicts, making the blonde turn to look at him with furrowed brows, "Surprisingly, I see a difference when you're actually okay and when something is bothering you,"
"Nothing's bothering me," Lucy looks away, returning to her previous state, "I'm just…tired. Your mom was relentless today,"
"I know," Natsu then bumped her, successfully making the woman glance at him, "I'm sorry,"
"I know," Lucy tried to smile at him before looking back at the water. They remained quiet again, and Natsu tried to hold back his thoughts, letting the woman have her peace for a moment.
When a few minutes passed, Natsu couldn't hold it in any longer and cleared his throat again, "So, what's bothering you?"
"Nothing," Lucy denied quickly, and Natsu couldn't help but roll his eyes at the expected response.
"Just to let you know, I have the whole night to pester you and fish out what the hell is bothering you," Natsu slowly grinned at her when she turned her head to look at him with a deadly stare, "So, it's either you tell me now, or witness how I can be persistent and annoying until you give up,"
Lucy pursed her lips before she rolled her eyes and sighed, "Fine…" She then trails off, knowing that Natsu is just going to wait for a few more seconds, "Your dad—"
"What about pops?" Natsu curiously asks, not expecting his old man to be the cause of the woman's listlessness.
Lucy raised a brow at the pinkette for the sudden defensive tone, but she brushed it off before continuing, "We talked about my father,"
"Oh…" Natsu quickly felt guilty, knowing that Jude Heartfilia was not a welcome conversation topic for Lucy, "I'm sorry,"
Lucy whined softly, shrugging it off, "It's not your fault. I mean, it's expected, and the fact that your parents know me as Lucy Heartfilia immediately ties me back to my father. The only thing that they don't know is that we're estranged, and I have to pretend that we're not,"
"We can tell them the truth," Natsu suggested, although sounding unsure of the brilliance of it.
"And what? Make your mother believe more that I'm just after your money? Because I'm a disowned heiress and need more money because of my expected lavish lifestyle?" Lucy chuckled, shaking her head, "No, thank you,"
"But it's hard for you," Natsu whispered softly and uncharacteristically for him, making her look back, "Pretending to be my girlfriend in front of my mom is hard enough. Making you talk about your dad as if you're both okay is harder, and I don't want that for you,"
Something stirred in Lucy's chest, and a warm sensation in the pit of her gut made her smile softly at the pinkette. Lucy touched his arm and gently squeezed it, "I appreciate your concern, and I'm glad you care enough about me. But I jumped into this situation, fully aware of what I was getting into,"
"Yeah, but—" Natsu then scooted closer, engulfing her with his legs on each side of her. They faced each other, and Natsu softly placed his hands on Lucy's knees, "If I can help you avoid dealing with that, then I will do everything to protect you,"
Lucy's heart thumped harder, and this surprised her. But she could barely focus on it with how Natsu stared intensely at her. His soft, concerned eyes trained on her, and his hand lightly stroked her knees as if comforting her.
Lucy whispers back, the only thought she could bring herself to say, "Thank you." And with that, Natsu hugs Lucy, letting her rest on his chest as he wraps his arms around her shoulders securely.
As the second day of the vacation began, no one attempted to wake up early like the other day. Somehow, they had a feeling that if they were seen awake by the Marvell sisters, they would come up with an activity for all of them so as not to waste the day.
Thankfully, everyone agreed to take their time to start their day.
Meanwhile, Grandine, Sefera, Grizela, and Grasia kept their usual morning routine. The four women always enjoyed an early breakfast, and since they were all together on the beach, they decided to have it on the hotel's patio.
"You seem to be in a good mood, Dine. You had a nice night with Iggy?" Grizela questioned teasingly as she watched her sister spread jam on her scone.
Grandine chuckles as she prepares her meal, "Oh, dear little sister, my enthusiasm is beyond being satisfied by my husband. Nowadays, I am more pleased seeing that actress glum during this vacation,"
Sefera scoffs as she stirs her coffee, "Sometimes, Dine, you surprise me with how wicked you can be,"
"I'm not wicked," Grandine denies, looking at her best friend, "I'm just protective,"
"But Dine, seriously," Grasia suddenly comments, getting their attention, "I don't understand the hate. Lucy seems to be a sweet girl, caring to Natsu, very friendly and affectionate, even to Wendy. What don't you like about her?"
"I don't like that she is pretending to be one," Grandine then rolled her eyes, "Did you really expect that a Heartfilia would be that kind of person? She grew up without a mother, and her father is a ferocious man. Did you really think Jude would have brought her up being a nice person?"
"Hold on," Sefera slightly slammed her teaspoon on the table, startling the woman next to her when the china tea cups rattled, "Is this coming from an immediate interaction with her or based on your assumption?" she then gave a stern look that said her friend's words didn't amuse her. "Because knowing you, you also hate being judged immediately. I hope you're not being a hypocrite,"
Grandine was suddenly mute, being chastised by her best friend. She knew she had been enjoying too much tormenting the actress. She was always on the verge of overstepping her boundaries of judging people subjectively. She was turning into someone she hated most, a hypocrite.
Everyone at the table quickly recognized the growing tension, but they knew it was necessary to get Grandine out of a judgmental state. The woman was stubborn as hell when she was critical and suspicious of people, and sometimes, she needed harsh talking to get shaken up.
Grizela and Grasia may argue with their oldest sister, but Sefera is always the one who challenges the blunette the most. There have been a lot of times their friendship is tested when they get into an argument. But they always end up making amends, knowing that the harsh truth said by each other was necessary to keep them in line to be a better person.
"Alright," Grandine exhaled deeply, feeling a little ashamed but hiding it with her impassive expression, "I may have been judgmental and assuming about that actress' character. But in my defense, that woman has an unstable family background. I tend to assume the worst in every person, particularly those already known to be suspicious. So, having Lucy around my son does not put me at ease knowing who her father is,"
"Does it make a difference if Lucy was not the daughter of Jude? Or that she came from a middle-class family?" Sefera questioned critically.
"Maybe, but still, I'd be suspicious of her," Grandine then picks up her teaspoon once again and begins to stir her tea, "If it would put you at ease, I am willing to change my strategy of getting to know her,"
Grasia sighs in delight, "That would be nice, sister. I think you should give Lucy a chance,"
"Don't be too trusting, Sia," Grizela cuts in, looking at her older sister with disbelief, "We still don't know who that woman is and her intention. After all, they have been lying, remember?"
Sefera couldn't help but roll her eyes as she sighed, hearing Grandine's youngest sister. Before she could comment to her, Grasia answered her.
"How about I leave the distrust to you and Grandine while I serve as the counterpoint to the both of you? In that way, you both don't become too biased in your thoughts,"
Sefera suddenly chortles, getting their attention, "I'll be on Sia's side. Two for two?"
As Sefera and Grasia grinned at them, Grandine couldn't help but sigh in defeat as she knew there was no way to get around it.
… … …
"Why can't Lucy go?" Natsu scowled as he crossed his arms over his chest, pouting at his mother.
"Because, as I said, only the winners of yesterday's team are treated to the town buffet," Grandine tried to ease her son with a playful poke on his side, "Didn't you miss that? I bet you're looking forward to eating those flaming hot wings,"
Natsu groaned, "That's not the point. Yes, I do like eating in the town buffet, but I want Lucy there,"
"But she was on the losing team, and the losing team does the house chores the whole day," Grandine then gave a tight-lipped smile when Natsu kept his glaring eyes on her.
"Then why is Sting coming?!" Natsu points at the blonde, who was suddenly startled at the call of his name, "He was in the losing team!"
"Hey—!" Sting bellowed but was cut off immediately.
"Can anyone stop that boy from doing whatever he wants?" Grandine then glanced at the blonde model, "His mom can't even make him do a runway walk for their clothing line. What makes you think I can make that boy wash the dishes?"
Natsu rolls his eyes again, "How about Gajeel?! Why is he coming?"
"Because his mom asks him to pick up some goods at the wet market and other stuff," Grandine, having enough of it, crosses her arms too, "Are you going to complain about every single person on this vacation and wonder why they are going to town while your girlfriend stays with us?"
Natsu grits his teeth and is about to retort when soft hands suddenly wrap around his arm and tug him. He glances at his side and is a little surprised to see Lucy next to him.
"Natsu's just being a tad bit childish," Lucy squeezed his arm and looked once more at him, "He was hoping to tour me around, and he was looking forward to it. But I get it," she then focused her attention to his mother, "Those who lost are task to prepare the meal and do errands, so, yeah, it makes sense. And I don't mind," Lucy ends with a smile.
"Luce—"
"It's fine," Lucy cuts off, looking back at him. She then widens her eyes as if cueing him that he should follow along, "There will be other times you can tour me around Tenrou. I bet your mom has many ideas for today, and she'd need help,"
"That is very true," Grandine suddenly adds, taking the couple's attention. She immediately put on her innocent smile and gently grasped Lucy's hand, "I'd appreciate your help,"
"Glad to help," Lucy replies, and soon they watch the blue-haired mother walk away.
When Grandine was out of earshot, Natsu grumbled as he turned around, pulling Lucy away from the group.
As they stepped out on the veranda, with their hands clasped together, Lucy could not help but tighten her grip on Natsu's as if getting his attention.
"Natsu, you don't have to worry about me,"
"You'll be alone with her," Natsu retorts, facing her finally. His eyes were serious, and he stared intensely back at her, "You don't have any backup,"
Lucy shook her head, "It doesn't matter. Your mom will be more suspicious of us if we insist that I come along rather than stay around,"
"Do you have any idea who's staying?" Natsu looked around and grunted before leaning closer to the actress, "My mom and aunties are staying in the hotel while their husbands are going to the golf course. My cousins will be in town with me. It will be just you and my mom with her sisters,"
Lucy inhaled sharply as she took in the information. But she let out her breath, along with her growing nerves, "As I said, it doesn't matter. I'll manage, trust me, Mr. Dragneel,"
Natsu heaved disappointedly before he shook his head and then dropped his forehead against hers. Lucy suddenly blushes at the gesture, knowing that Natsu continues to caress the back of her hand.
"I'll be fine," She whispered, reassuring the man. But the pinkette seemed to be worked up as he turned his head side to side against Lucy's forehead.
As if it was natural for her, Lucy pulled her hands away to cup his cheeks and gently stroked it, calming him. "Natsu, look at me," she then waits for the man to open at least one eye. She smiled gently at him, and when he did, she whispered, "I'll be fine."
… … …
Promising Natsu that she'll be fine was wishful thinking. The moment the jeeps left the hotel, Lucy felt the temperature change as if the wind had grown stronger, making her shiver despite being out in the sun by the beach.
It was the second day, and they were all scheduled to settle in the beach house, a mountain away. It would be a short trip from the hotel, but travel meant driving up the next mountain, and they had many things to bring.
She was tasked to manage the completeness of their baggage. The hotel maids and butlers were at her disposal to check every item in their hotel rooms and be packed away before being loaded in the vans. If that were her only task, it would have been no problem. But while she was starting on Wendy's room, Grizela bellowed furiously, making her startle at the sudden outburst.
Running up to where the woman was, she was stunned to see Mrs. Grizela fuming red in their hotel room, ranting about her place being messy. Lucy couldn't help but furrow her brows as she stared at the place. It was immaculate, except probably the duvet being wrinkled after being laid on.
"Mrs. Grizela, I think this can be arranged," She then turns to the maid next to her, "Maria, do you mind tidying things a little?"
The maid quietly chortles at Lucy's sheepish look before entering the bedroom. She and the maid knew that Mrs. Grizela was a tad bit dramatic.
And with that, her morning went on, with a few more outbursts from Mrs. Grizela and a little urgent request from Mrs. Grandine. Her task was supposed to be manageable, but with the fretting that the two ladies were doing, she wasn't sure if she'd be okay by the end of the morning.
Mrs. Sia and Mrs. Sefera were quiet most of the time, doing their things in their hotel room and then taking a break on the patio. They barely gave any attention to her, which she was a little glad for. They were smiling and kind enough to her. But Mrs. Grizela and Mrs. Grandine were like the epitome of a mean girl. Those two women probably inspired the character of Regina George.
Well, technically, it was mostly Mrs. Grizela, who was outright looking and acting bitch to her. Mrs. Grandine, well, was quiet and just smirking at the pleasure of seeing her clench her teeth in annoyance while she tried not to let her voice give her out.
After dealing with another grumbling from Mrs. Grizela, Lucy couldn't help but sigh in defeat. It was just two hours since they all left, and she was exhausted from dealing with the woman.
"You have to forgive my sister for being such a whiney woman,"
Lucy turned around and was a little surprised to see Mrs. Sia standing a few feet away from her with a cup of tea in her hands. She suddenly raised it and offered, "Do you want to have some tea?"
She wanted to nod franticly, but she just heaved as she thought that there was a lot more to do, "I haven't started on the other guest rooms yet, and I should get into it,"
Mrs. Sia scoffed, "You're a guest, not a staff of this hotel," she then walked up to Lucy and placed the warm saucer in her hands, "You should take a break with us,"
"Oh, um," Lucy shook her head, shy and panicking a little, "I-it's fine. Mrs. Grandine wanted me to do it, so…" then tilts her head as if to convey her point, "I have to do it now before she gets mad,"
Mrs. Sia waves her hand, "Don't worry about it. We'll help you, but for now, please join us for tea. We'd love to get to know you,"
Hearing that made Lucy smile, and without any excuses again, she nodded and joined them at the patio.
Joining them for tea was interesting. Lucy got to know Natsu's aunts well and was surprised to learn they were lovely people, but they were not women to be fooled around. Mrs. Sia was a soft-spoken woman but wasn't the pushover type. People can easily misjudge her softness as being receptive to people's requests. But the truth was, it was her softness and kindness that put people in their place, making them realize how much of a bad person they were.
Mrs. Sefera, or Mrs. Fera, was the total opposite of Mrs. Sia. She was more outgoing and franker, but not in an overwhelming way. She was just like Mrs. Grandine, except Mrs. Fera was less skeptical and more open to getting to know people. She was a confident woman who knew what she wanted and how to deal with things. But when it comes to her family, she is more protective and ready to fight for them.
When Lucy slipped and said that Levy was her best friend, Mrs. Fera was stunned to hear that. At first, Lucy thought that she had failed to keep it a secret and that Gajeel would be mad for dragging her best friend into the mess. But when Mrs. Fera had a soft look, was teary-eyed, and then started asking about Levy, she knew the woman was deprived of getting to know her future daughter-in-law. And so, she indulged and told funny stories about them.
… … …
It was early evening when the jeeps finally arrived at the hotel. Lucy and the other women waited by the front of the hotel.
Before the jeep could stop, Natsu quickly jumped out from the back, making Grandine gasp at her son's recklessness. The pinkette sprinted towards them, and she thought he was just eager to get out of the vehicle when suddenly he scooped up Lucy and twirled her. She couldn't help but roll her eyes and groan as she heard the actress squeal in surprise.
Natsu puts down Lucy, and they both chuckle at their antics. Without stepping away from Natsu's hold, Lucy immediately puts on a show by draping her arms around his neck. She strained her neck up as she grinned at him, "I missed you,"
"I missed you too," Natsu then rests his forehead on hers, which Lucy secretly likes, "I was worried about you the whole day, wondering if you're still in one piece,"
Grandine scoffed, making the couple look at her, "What did you think we would do to her?"
Lucy chortles before looking back at Natsu, "I had a fun day with your aunts." Natsu immediately raised a brow instead of his question.
"I got to know Mrs. Sia, Mrs. Fera, Mrs. Grizela, and your mom," Lucy then glances at Grandine, who immediately turns away as soon as Wendy and Igneel approach her. When they had left, Lucy looked back at him, and she had glee in her eyes, "I don't think she appreciates that Mrs. Sia and Mrs. Fera like me now,"
Natsu grins at her news. He softly chuckles at her grinning face, "I knew my mother couldn't manage you. I could kiss you right now,"
Lucy chuckled before turning her cheek to him, "Maybe on the cheek,"
And so, Natsu leaned down and kissed her. But instead of her cheek, it landed right at her soft spot, just under her ear, making her gasp softly and blush at the intimacy.
"Sorry, it's a 'no' for me,"
Lucy peeks over her shoulder from her position on the bed, building their pillow wall. "No, for what?"
"No pillow wall," Natsu then grabbed one of the pillows in position, and the wall immediately crumbled, making the blonde whine, "I had to deal with a lot of traveling by car, and I need to sprawl out so that I wouldn't throw up again,"
Lucy grimaces at the thought, "Fine, just make sure when you throw up, it's on your side and not on me, or else I'll murder you,"
Natsu snickers, "Imagine if my mom saw you murdering me and you're covered in my vomit—"
"You're ridiculous, Natsu," Lucy shook her head. She then positioned herself on the usual side of the bed.
They were no longer staying in the hotel but instead on the beach house, which they fondly called. It was far from being a single-family house and more like a mansion. It was smaller than the Dragneels' manor, but it was spacious enough to accommodate a large group of guests.
She and Natsu were settled in one of the bedrooms that Natsu usually occupied. The room barely had his personal effects, but somehow, it fitted his personality. Much of the furniture had a touch of red or a semblance of fire. The room wasn't too masculine, but it barely had a touch of femininity. Lucy suddenly wanted to rearrange a few things to accommodate her presence, even just a bit.
As Natsu pulled the bed cover to settle in, Lucy quietly watched, unbeknownst to him. He was oblivious to her stare, so she cleared her throat to get his attention. When Natsu had laid on his side, he immediately prompted his head with his hand and stared at the blonde.
"What's up?"
She staggered a little at the sudden full attention, "Um, well, just wanted to know how your day was,"
"Ah!" Natsu quickly sat up and leaned back on the headboard, the same way Lucy did. But he half turned so that his body was quite facing her, "Well, there was a lot of walking and shopping for the girls,"
"That's just Wendy and Levy," Lucy counters, a smile growing.
Natsu huffed before he grinned, "Well, then count Sting in. That boy likes a lot of clothes, accessories, and stuff, and yet he keeps wearing crop tops,"
Lucy laughed, shaking her head. They fell into silence momentarily before looking back at the pinkette, "Mrs. Fera knows that Levy is my best friend,"
Natsu stared back at her and then realized the blonde was waiting for his reaction. So, he nodded, "How'd she take it?"
"Um, I think quite well," Lucy shrugs her shoulders. "She was eager to hear about Levy and was happy to hear stories about her…" She then writhed her fingers and asked, "Doesn't Gajeel bring Levy over to his parents? You know, to bond?"
Natsu shook his head, "That idiot cousin of mine is a little overprotective of Levy in quite an irrational way. He's overthinking everything and assumes that Auntie Fera would be like my mom after all the debacle that happened to me,"
Lucy immediately notices the flash of sadness in his eyes before subtly shaking it off. It makes her realize then how much it bothers Natsu that his life has affected the people around him.
"Well," Lucy reached out and held his wrist, "She wanted to have breakfast with me and Levy tomorrow. Do you want to come?"
Natsu glanced for a second at Lucy's touch before looking back at her, "Isn't that a girl's breakfast thing?"
Lucy scoffed, "No, not really. I think Mrs. Fera wants Gajeel to be around as well. She said she rarely sees her son with his girlfriend and wants to see how connected they are."
Natsu hummed in thought as he kept his eyes on Lucy's hand on his wrist. He noticed that she tightened her grip briefly as if catching his attention. He wondered why, tilting his head.
"Earth to Natsu?" Lucy snapped her fingers before him, cutting the man off his trance.
"I'm sorry, what?"
Lucy stared openly at the pinkette, amused. Her eyes followed the trail where his attention lay, and with that, she quickly pulled her hand away and tucked it to herself.
She turned a little pink, knowing Natsu kept watching where her hand had disappeared. "I-I said, will you join us? You know, to keep appearances,"
"Oh…" Natsu then shook off his lingering thoughts before he paid attention to the blonde again, "Yeah, sure. The more that Auntie Fera believes we're real, the more she'll be on our side and maybe convince Mom,"
"Right," Lucy said, nodding.
It then turned quiet, and the two didn't seem to know what to do next. In the end, Lucy let out a staggering breath before she adjusted herself and made a glance at the man, "I guess it's time to sleep, Mr. Dragneel. Don't throw up on me. Good night," and with that, Lucy ducked under the cover and turned to her side, away from the man.
Natsu was left staring at her sleeping form before he softly replied, "Good night, Luce,"
… … …
Glancing up again, Igneel tried his best to keep his grin from appearing on his lips before looking back down at his business magazine. He found it ironic how his wife was scowling while she put on her anti-aging night cream.
"Honey, I think that cream will only work so much if you stop frowning," Igneel teased as he flipped a page and heard his wife turn to growl at him.
"You find this amusing?" Grandine questioned, sounding pissed off.
"No, not really," Igneel shook his head, looking up, "I'm guessing this day didn't work out as you planned?"
Grandine glared at her husband for a few seconds before she huffed and turned away. She returned to finish her night routine, "No, it did not,"
"Well, teaming up with Zela doesn't really sound like a good plan," Igneel scrunches his nose and then notices the deadpan stare of his wife through the mirror. He shrugged, "What? It's Grizela we're talking about,"
"At least she's on my side," Grandine then rolled her eyes, "I mean, I expected Sia to be the kindest among us. But Fera?" she then turned around to face her husband, her brows furrowed in disbelief, "I can't believe that woman would go against me,"
Igneel tilted his head in query, "Well, she usually counterpoints you,"
"Only when it's about you," she cried before she stumped her foot and stood up. She then settled on the bed beside her husband, who was smiling amusingly at her.
"I think it's natural for my sister to do that. But, in some other cases, she does like challenging your opinion, especially when she doesn't understand the point of it,"
"Are you saying that what I'm doing is irrational?" Grandine sternly looked at Igneel, who seemed a little fazed but tried to solider on.
"I'm just saying that trying to intimidate the young lady doesn't seem necessary," Igneel pursed his lips, shoving his shoulders up in defense.
"And what made you say that?"
"I don't think you have to worry about her if Jude is your concern," Igneel then looks away as he leans back on the headboard. He feels the steady gaze of his wife, waiting for him to continue, "Did I ever mention to you that I had a brief chat with Lucy?"
Grandine's eyes grew wide a little before she kept her expression neutral, "In fact, no. What did you talk about with her?"
"Jude," they were then silent.
"And?"
"And she doesn't seem comfortable talking about Jude. She's trying to appear like she's neutral about her father, but I see the stunned look occasionally,"
They were then quiet again as they mused over the thought until Igneel sighed and looked at his wife.
"I don't think she's working with her father,"
Grandine considered it for a second before she shook her head, "You don't know that. She could be just acting. She's an actress, a good one."
Igneel kept his gaze on his wife, seeing the worry on her face. In an attempt to lighten the mood, he joked, "It sounds like you've seen her shows,"
Grandine gawped at her husband, but her cheeks betrayed her. She then looked away when Igneel grinned at her, "It was just one episode,"
Igneel laughed heartily, not expecting his wife to admit it, "How about we watch another episode?"
Grandine glared at him, "Do you want to sleep on the couch?"
Knowing that he had slightly calmed his wife, Igneel quickly pulled Grandine to his chest and wrapped his arms around her. He pulled them down to lie on the bed, ready to sleep.
As Grandine settled on Igneel's chest, with him stroking her back, she sighed in defeat. Igneel could feel the exhaustion from his wife, making him kiss the crown of her head.
"Give her a chance, Dine. We never know she might be the one for our son," Igneel whispered.
"I doubt that," Grandine answers softly before heaving in beat.
To be continued…
Author's Note:
I had to cut this chapter short. I wanted the chapter to be about the whole summer week, but then I realized each day of their vacation had to be detailed. So, the next chapter is the second half of their vacation. Hopefully, it won't take me 3 months (or more 😅) again to update. Anyways, how's the story going for you, Mina? Let me know. (If you want to). Thanks for reading!