Hey hey! Hope you had a great holiday season and the start of the new year is treating you all well! Another year went by so fast, guess its true that time just goes downhill when you have to be a "adult" T_T Got a new job and that's been taking up all my time ugh, but here's to a better '23 together
Enjoy some more of our fave two falling in deeper for each other uwu
Lucy's finally enjoying a quiet night to herself after putting Kade to bed earlier. Warm mug of tea in her hand, soft blanket over her to try to sooth the ache in her head, something random on the tv in the background in her room.
It'd been a rough two weeks so far if she was being honest. Between the heavy workload at the office, struggling a little more than usual with Kade, but still trying to fit in his practices and games, she barely had a chance to breathe.
Part of her felt bad when she let everything get to her during times like this when Kade was wearing her thin, but she's only human and trying her best to give him her best. Even though she felt like it wasn't enough some days.
A buzz from her phone distracts her from her thoughts, smiling softy when she sees it's from Natsu with a cute picture of him and the kitties.
He seems to be laying down too, Happy and Ollie over his head and neck.
They gang up on me now since I'm outnumbered.
Lucy chuckles at his text under the photo, chest swelling with warmth as she replies.
You're all so cute
They'd gone on a couple more dates since the first. They continued to get closer, and every warm hug, holding his warm rough hand as they walked around town, soft words, still left her feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
Part of her still felt guilty for feeling happier in this area of her life, but with several talks with Levy, she was starting to accept that it was definitely something she wanted.
Her and Natsu talk back and forth for a while, and by then the stressed ache by her temples has melted away, leaving her sleepy and content as she drifts off to sleep with a smile.
Which Natsu always had that knack of doing.
Lucy huffs, already frustrated by the lack of competence from everyone in her mess of emails the next day. It's already early afternoon and she's ready for the day to be over. Luckily it was another Friday already.
She enjoys what she does, just not the tedious parts of it like this.
She sighs deeply, fingers pinching the bridge of her nose, closing her eyes for a moment. Feeling her phone buzz on her desk beside her, Lucy looks over and picks it up, and smiles softly when she sees it's another text from Natsu.
Hey Luce! Did you already take your lunch today?
Lucy glances at the time on her phone, seeing it's already way past the time she usually takes it. Maybe that's why she already has a headache.
Not yet. It's been an annoyingly busy day, so probably going to go soon. What's up? She replies back.
Perfect! I happen to be in the area, mind if I join you? :)
Her smile widens. She wasn't expecting it, but couldn't deny the happy warmth that flutters in her chest at the thought of seeing Natsu.
Of course I don't mind. I'd love the company actually
Sure thing! See you soon :)
Lucy happily gets her things together to head downstairs, telling Natsu that she would meet him at the courtyard next to the building.
It had some tables, trees, flowers. Always a nice break when she comes out here.
Just as she turns the corner, a bright smile greets her from across the yard.
"Over here, Luce!" Natsu waves, standing from one of the tables.
Lucy can't help but match his smile as she walks over. He must've come from work, looking cute in his station shirt and dark blue work pants... that fit him a little too well, rose gold hair all tousled from the wind.
He's quick to wrap her in a hug when she gets to the table. "Hi," he breathes into her hair.
Lucy sighs, hugging him back tight against his waist, soaking in all his comforting warmth and letting it soothe away her lingering frustration.
"Hi," Lucy replies softly. "I needed this," she says when they pull back.
"Always happy to help," Natsu grins, toothy and happy. "Happy to see you," he says softer, pushing some of her hair behind her ear.
"Always happy to see you too, this is such a sweet surprise today," Lucy says warmly, moving so they could sit and only just now noticing the spread of sandwiches and snacks in front of her. "Wow, you really didn't have to do all this, Natsu," she laughs.
"Well, I know both of us have been pretty busy, and I finally got off from my overnight shift at the station and couldn't pass up the opportunity for a quick lunch date," Natsu grins brightly. "Know you've been having a tough time lately too and just wanted to do a little something to help."
"It's more than just a little," Lucy's expression softens, reaching over to give his hand a squeeze. "You have a lot going on too, I really appreciate this. I do like the sound of a lunch date," she grins playfully.
"I'll be sure to plan more then," Natsu smiles wider, starting to get all the food ready. "I also figured you probably didn't have a chance to make anything for lunch, and I was starving so may have went a little overboard," Natsu laughs, pulling his sandwich from the paper and taking a big bite. "So, it's been busy today?"
"You figured right. I was starving too so perfect timing," Lucy chuckles. "But ugh, yeah. Levy and a few others are out and things started piling up on the rest of us," she huffs, pulling open a bag of chips to start on.
Natsu hums around his bite. "Totally get that. I had to pull that overnight shift 'cause we had a few people out too." He shakes his head, and on closer look, Lucy can see the tired lines in his face and shoulders, and she wants to pull him into another hug to soothe them.
"Think they should give us a nice long couple of weeks off for having to carry everything."
"That'd be awesome," Natsu laughs full, corners of his eyes crinkling with his smile.
Lucy much rather prefers that look on him.
She smiles warm and content as he fills her in with stories from the station, conversation easy and comfortable, flowing until all their food was practically gone and Lucy's hour was almost over already.
They start cleaning up and Natsu insists she take home the extra leftovers for Kade. Lucy accepts with a smile as she walks him back to his truck.
"Thanks again for this, Natsu. It was the perfect pick me up," Lucy sighs winding her arms around his middle loosely as he leans back against his door. "If only I didn't have to go back up to work for a bit longer," she huffs.
Natsu chuckles, warm palms resting at the small of her back, holding her close. "Anytime. We should try to do more of these."
"I'd like that," Lucy grins brightly, following her fluttering heart and leaning up to press a soft kiss against his lips.
Natsu sighs against her, tilting his head and kissing her deeper. She feels his palm come up to cup her cheek. Thumb brushing over her warming skin.
The touch still makes her stomach do flips, but the feeling is a little addicting.
They pull back and Natsu rests his forehead against hers, both breathing deeply with bright eyes and matching smiles.
"I'll make you late if we keep going," Natsu huffs out a laugh, thumb brushing along her jaw.
"Mm, think we deserve a few more minutes," Lucy smiles playfully, fingers curling into his short hair at the back of his head, getting a little lost in the shades of green in those eyes of his.
"Well, in that case," he rasps between them, closing the distance again for a slow, deep kiss that has her melting against him.
By the time they manage finally part, with Natsu's promise to be at her house bright and early to pick them up for Kade's next game, and Lucy made it back upstairs, all her frustration from this morning had melted away and left her feeling light, warm, and a little giddy honestly.
She already can't wait to see him again.
True to his word, Natsu picks them up bright and early for Kade's game the next day. Lucy gives him the extra breakfast she'd made once they get loaded into his truck, Natsu thanks her with a quick kiss to the cheek that gets her all flustered and he just smiles toothily.
"Natsu, is there really only one more game left with you?" Kade pouts from the backseat once they're on the road.
"Looks that way. Sorry, bud," Natsu chuckles, glancing at Kade in the rearview mirror. "But don't worry we can still go out to the field and have our own fun since well have it all to ourselves."
"Yeah!"
Lucy looks over and shares a warm, amused look with him and they laugh.
"I think I'm gonna miss these trips with Natsu too, bug," Lucy adds. "Who else is going to drive us around?" She smiles playfully.
"Hm, think we could work something else out," Natsu laughs.
They subtly hold hands on the way out to the field once they get there and unload as Kade runs ahead to catch up with Noah and the rest of the kids already there.
The simple touch is still always thrilling, sending pleasant tingles up her arm through to her heart. Especially when his thumb brushes along her inner wrist like it's doing.
They break off once they catch sight of Igneel.
"Be back soon." Natsu gives her hand a reassuring squeeze with a warm look before he lets go and meets Igneel on the field with the kids.
She smiles and returns Igneel's big wave he gives her when he sees her across the way.
Lucy misses Natsu's warmth already, but enjoys watching the effortless way he interacts with everyone, hearing his and Igneel's full laugh from where she sits in the bleachers.
The game is fun and energetic as always, and Lucy takes as many photos of Kade as she could when he gets in a few hits and runs around the plates. He even gives her a cheesy, wide smile for a couple of them.
She also may or may not have taken a few of Natsu too... when he's with Kade. Of course.
They all huddle up for high fives after the game is over and all rush over to the bleachers.
"Mom, Mom! Did you see all my hits today?" Kade grins brightly when he runs over into her arms.
"I did!" Lucy matches his smile, standing to pick him up with a spin around, heart swelling at the sound of his happy laugh. "Proud of you as always, sweetheart," she says warmly, brushing some dirt from the cheek of his happy expression.
Lucy looks over just in time to see Natsu had made his way over with Igneel.
"Good game, kiddo!" Igneel grins, playfully tugging the boy's hat lower over his eyes. Kade giggles, pushing his hat back up, hazel eyes bright at the praise. "Hey, Lucy, did my boy here tell you about the dinner we're putting together at the house tomorrow that you both are welcome to?" Igneel asks with a teasing smile, knocking an elbow against Natsu's arm beside him.
Lucy laughs at the roll of Natsu's eyes. "He did. Thank you for inviting us. I appreciate it," she smiles kind. "Anything we can bring?"
Natsu did in fact tell her about it during their lunch yesterday. She thought it was so sweet of them to offer an invitation to her and Kade, they're all so kind, how could she say no.
"Nah, don't worry about that. We got enough food to go around," Igneel waves off. "We're just happy to have you! Wendy's been so excited to meet you both, she asks about you non-stop," he laughs, shaking his head.
"And I've told her, if she came out of her room on the weekends, she would've gotten to meet you guys before now. Just jealous we get to hang out so much," Natsu adds playfully with a wink.
Lucy laughs, nodding. "Well, you know how teenagers are. But I'm looking forward to meeting her too."
"Sounds like a plan then!" Igneel claps. "I'll let you enjoy the rest of your day, see you soon!" He moves to give them all a warm hug and waves off towards his truck in the distance.
"Well, I think I gotta agree with my dad. You were awesome as always, bud! You're basically a pro now." Natsu throws an arm around Kade's shoulders, hugging him to his side as they head back towards his own truck. He wore a proud, affectionate smile that made Lucy's heart warm.
"Really?!" Kade looks up him, brighter with Natsu's praise.
"Yep!"
"Yeah, you might even take over Natsu's coach spot soon, bug," Lucy teases, smile growing at Kade's laugh at Natsu's pout. "But for now, I think we should grab some food for lunch. How does that sound?"
Lucy laughs at the way both of their expressions brighten again at the mention of food.
"Can we get that good pizza again?" Kade asks, hazel eyes pleading and eager, hopping over to grab onto her arm once they reach the truck.
"Hmm," she thinks with her other hand to her chin. "That does sound good. What do you think, Natsu?"
"I think I agree," Natsu grins, toothily.
They pack up their stuff and head out. Natsu maybe indulges Kade a little too much at the restaurant and orders more than enough. Pizza, pasta, cheesy bread, the list went on.
He gives her a sheepish smile after the cashier tells them the total. Lucy shook her head with a laugh and they went half on it anyway.
Natsu spreads out everything on Lucy's dining table when they get back to the house, presenting it like a gift when he's done just as Lucy comes back from getting Kade changed and washed up first.
"Wow, what a spread, Natsu. Where do I start?" Lucy laughs, shaking her head fondly, helping him to get some plates and drinks for them.
"The bread's really good, Mom!" Kade praises around a mouth full of cheese bread, hopping beside her, hazel eyes bright like he just got the best gift ever.
Lucy shares a laugh with Natsu when their eyes meet. "Cheese bread it is, I guess."
She gets Kade seated and helps him with his plate and they all enjoy the rest of lunch with bright laughs and she can't help but take in the way Natsu's dimple appears in his cheek when he smiles wide enough and the way it reaches his eyes. The way that same expression would soften when they looked at each other, bringing back all the warm butterflies in her chest every time. Knowing they felt the same way about each other now, intensified the feeling even more.
They spend the rest of the afternoon with some board games, Natsu and his dramatic way of celebrating when he won or lost, followed by more snacks and a movie and a couple episodes of one of Kade's shows.
By that time, Kade was knocked out between them underneath the large blanket they threw over them.
Lucy stretches out along the couch, with a drawn out yawn, only now realizing it's gotten a little late when she checks her phone.
"Thanks for hanging out with us," Lucy sighs and turns towards Natsu.
"Of course. It's always fun with you guys," Natsu grins, turning his head against the back cushion of the couch he'd slumped into also.
Lucy smiles warmly, sitting up and stretching. "I guess I should put him to bed," she sighs.
"Oh, here, I'll can help."
Natsu's moving before she could say anything, gently gathering Kade in his arms and slowly moving towards the boy's room.
"Thank you. He actually is getting pretty heavy for me to pick up anymore," Lucy chuckles, getting Kade's bed ready for Natsu to set him down on.
"He's already bigger than when we met that's for sure and I can feel that's definitely true," Natsu huffs a soft laugh, tucking Kade into bed.
"Mm, you're leaving, Natsu?" Kade mumbles sleepily into his pillow, eyes barely open.
"Yeah, but we'll get to hang out tomorrow too, don't worry. Night, bud," Natsu reassures warmly, patting his shoulder.
"Ok. Night, Natsu. Night, Mom," Kade sighs, smiling back into sleep.
"Sleep well, sweetheart." Lucy runs a hand through the boy's soft hair, smiling fondly before flicking off the lamp.
They head back into the living room, Natsu yawns and stretches.
"If you're still too tired to drive, you're always welcome to stay over… if you want," Lucy offers, curling her fingers into the pockets of her hoodie.
Natsu had stayed over recently, mostly because they'd all fallen asleep in the living room after another long movie night, but it was actually really nice having the company in the morning... and she couldn't deny she'd been kind of craving that again.
"Oh, I um, I'd love to, but have to make sure the cats are ok and get some things done for my parents in the morning," Natsu chuckles warmly, scratching his cheek. "But I'm definitely up for that soon." A toothy smile curls his lips. "I'll bring all the good games, snacks, and we can get the living room all set up and everything."
"Alright, just try not to knock out as soon as we put on the first movie."
"Always so meaannn." Lucy giggles at his dramatic pout, shoving his arm playfully. "Hey, speaking of the cats, know we talked about it, still ok with me bringing them over for dinner tomorrow for Kade?" Natsu asks.
Kade has still been asking about meeting the kittens and they hadn't managed to visit Natsu's apartment yet, so when Natsu brought up the plans for dinner at his parents, he brought up the idea of taking them too so Kade can meet them.
He's never grown up with pets or interacted much with animals, so Lucy's been a little unsure at first, but all of them being there to help eased her mind.
"Yeah, of course," Lucy reassures. "Know he's been wanting to meet them for a while, and now that Ollie's a bit bigger I think it'll be better."
"She's a tough one, she'll be ok. And Happy is Happy," Natsu grins. "You haven't told him yet right? He's gonna be so excited."
"I haven't," Lucy says excitedly, just picturing the bright, happy look in Kade's eyes. "I can't wait to see them in person too. As much as I love all the pictures," she huffs a laugh.
"I'm sure they'll love you both. The whole family does already." Natsu gives her a warm look, with something deeper she can't quite place, but he blinks and moves to gather his things before she can think about it too much.
Lucy walks him out to his truck, taking in the crisp, cool air of the night with a deep breath.
"Oh right, it's the official 'meeting the family' part I've heard about. Should I be nervous?" Lucy teases.
Natsu huffs out a full laugh. "Oh, c'mon. Nothin' to be nervous about. Well, maybe just about eating whatever I may end up cooking."
"Well that's a good possibility then."
They share a content laugh, Lucy leaning in closer to Natsu's warmth as he pulls her closer and softly closing the distance with a tender kiss that made Lucy's skin tingle.
She sighs and smiles into the kiss for a moment before winding her hand up his chest and around his neck, kissing him deeper.
It's something she'll never get tired of. Thrilling, exciting… happy, if she dared to say it.
The next morning Lucy went out and took care of some errands with Kade to get ready for the week, some cleaning, getting some food prepped for the week, typical end of the weekend things. By the time she was done, it was almost time to head out for dinner.
Hi! I have some things to take care of before heading over to my parents, so will meet you there soon :) Can't wait to see you. I like this, spending the whole weekend together thing
Lucy smiles to herself at Natsu's text. She just saw him yesterday, but she had to agree. She does rather like getting to spend time with Natsu for the majority of the weekend too.
Kade's been excited since this morning too as soon as Lucy reminded him where they were going today.
She'd gotten him washed up and changed, setting him up in the living room with his games while she took a quick shower herself. After spending more than enough time over her hair and struggling to pick out something to wear, Lucy settles on dark pants, some short boots, lighter denim jacket over a soft sweater. She huffs, looking in the mirror in her bedroom one more time, running a hand through her hair and tossing it over her shoulder. It feels comfortable, classic… she hoped.
She was possibly overthinking all this more than she had to. Typical.
As Natsu said, it wasn't like she never met them before, but she still wanted to make a good impression if they told them they were more than just friends now.
Lucy takes a steady breath, putting on some of her favorite special perfume for good measure and heads back out to the living room and starts to get their things together. She ended up picking up some cookies and snacks for dessert, even though Igneel mentioned not to, she can never show up somewhere with nothing and with how they eat, Lucy's sure they won't mind all that much anyway.
Kade jumps into his car seat, eagerly getting himself buckled even, making Lucy chuckle.
"Alright, ready to hang out with Natsu and uncle Igneel again?" Lucy says, once she's buckled up herself, looking back at Kade in the rearview mirror fondly.
"Can't wait!"
Lucy grins, It warms her heart how comfortable and happy he is around Natsu's family too. She punches in the address from Natsu's text and tells him they're on their way.
Kade keeps her entertained with his daycare stories with Noah and his other friends from baseball.
It makes her happy to hear the happiness in his voice and in his face when she glances back at him. To see how far he's come from being a little shy and timid around other kids and people, he's grown so much in these past couple of months. It makes her heart so full, aching slightly when she wishes he could've had this the whole time.
But she's glad they both have better now.
It doesn't take too long to get to the other town. The neighborhood is pretty, houses are small and quaint, full of trees and colorful flowers in bloom. Much better than the empty, dull houses she grew up in.
"There's Natsu!" Kade points out brightly as soon as Lucy turns the corner, quickly spotting his truck parked in front of what must be the house.
"Looks like we're here then," Lucy grins, parking behind Natsu.
She looks over to admire the house when she steps out and around to get Kade out. It immediately feels warm and welcoming. Their house also has some lovely raised flower beds under the front windows, cute white surrounding fence, dark wooden front door.
"Hey, guys!"
Natsu must've seen them from inside since he's already walking out to meet them.
"Natsu!"
Kade runs over as soon as Lucy helps him down, hopping into Natsu's arms for a hug.
Lucy smiles warmly at the sight, taking a moment to admire Natsu's own outfit. Looking cute in his faded jeans, converse, black tee under a dark green and black plaid shirt.
"Hey, buddy," Natsu grins brightly, hugging the boy to his side. He looks up, expression softening at Lucy. "Hi, Luce."
"Hi," she grins, following her already fluttering heart and stepping closer to give him a hug too. Kade giggles a protest when he gets squished in the middle.
They laugh too before Natsu says, "I heard some doors closing inside and figured it was you. C'mon, kiddo, let's help Mom take the stuff inside."
"It's not too much, but thank you," Lucy chuckles. "Couldn't help but still bring a few things."
"I knew you would," he grins, taking the bag she was carrying, already eyeing the cookies. "Even though Dad said not to bring anything, he's gonna be the one to eat most of these."
"Or you."
Lucy smiles wider at the sound of Natsu's fuller laugh. She always loves hearing it.
"Can't say you're wrong there."
Natsu leads the way up the path to the front door, holding it open for them.
"They're here," Natsu announces, setting the bags down on the dining table across from them.
The inside was just as welcoming. Cream colored walls, dark beams across the ceiling, cozy living room with a brick fireplace, spacious kitchen across from them.
"Hi!" Natsu's mom, Grace, rushes over and pulls Lucy into a hug. "We're so happy you both could make it," she smiles warmly when they pull back, turning to Kade beside her. "Hi, Kade! I haven't seen you in a while, look how big you're getting." She pats his cheeks gently, making him giggle.
"He really is, huh," Natsu adds with a playful ruffle to Kade's hair.
"Hey, hey!"
There's Igneel and his big presence coming through what must be the door to the back yard beside the kitchen.
"There's our favorite friends," he grins brightly, pulling both Lucy and Kade into a tight, warm hug.
Lucy laughs along with Kade's bright giggle.
"Dad, give them room to walk in first at least."
There's a younger girl beside Igneel with amused brown eyes, and dark hair that looked almost purple/blue under the light as she shook her head.
Natsu chuckles. "Luce, this is my sister, Wendy. Wendy, this is Lucy."
"Hi, Lucy! Oh, it's so good to finally meet you!" Wendy grins brightly. "Can I give you a hug too?" she asks, suddenly shy.
"Of course!" Lucy huffs a laugh, pulling the girl in for a warm hug too. "Happy to finally meet you too, Wendy. Heard so many good things about you," she says warmly, pulling back to wrap her arm around Kade's shoulders beside her. "This is my son, Kade."
Wendy takes a knee to the boy's level. "Hi, Kade!" she waves. "Natsu and everyone tells me so many good things about you and how awesome you are at baseball, happy to meet you."
Kade's expression brightens with a wide smile. "You too!" He steps closer to give the girl a hug too.
"Aww, he's so sweet," Wendy coos, with a smitten expression, hugging Kade back tight, making everyone laugh.
"Got her wrapped around his finger already," Igneel chuckles.
"We're working on getting some food finished up on the grill out in the back, should be ready soon. Make yourself at home Lucy," Grace grins warmly. "Here's something to drink for now. There's some snacks on the dining table." She puts a water bottle into Lucy's hands before she can say anything and heads out back with Igneel.
"She doesn't take no for an answer, don't worry," Natsu laughs. "But now! I think we have one more introduction to make right, Luce?" he says, looking to Lucy with a knowing, playful smile, reminding Lucy of their surprise.
"Oh, yes! I think you're right," Lucy smiles, following Natsu's lead to get settled on one of the couches in the living room. "Hey, bug. We have a little surprise for you." She pulls the boy to stand between her knees in front of her, smoothing out his shirt.
"Really?" Kade says, hazel eyes brightening with curiosity.
"Really, really. But ya gotta close your eyes first," Natsu grins beside Lucy.
"Ok," he giggles, barely covering his eyes with his small hands and laughing more when Lucy turns him around and puts her hands over his.
"Wendy, can you do the honors?" Natsu asks.
"Of course!" She happily rushes down the hall.
Lucy shares an excited look with Natsu as he leans over to knock his shoulder against hers.
"Is it time yet?" Kade says, hands slipping out from Lucy's and trying to pull at hers from his eyes.
"Almost," Lucy laughs.
Wendy's quickly back in the living room, this time with two furry friends in her arms, with an equally excited smile on her face.
They all share a look and Lucy nods. "Ok, ready? One, two, three." She slowly removes her hands. It takes a moment for Kade to notice, but then he gasps.
"Kitties!"
They meow right on cue and Natsu leads Kade to sit between them before he runs ahead.
"Yep! Know you've been wanting to meet them and here they are," Natsu grins. "But we need to be gentle, ok?"
Kade nods eagerly. "Promise, Natsu."
Lucy shares another warm smile with Natsu and he nods at Wendy.
"Here's Ollie," Wendy grins, handing off the smaller kitten into Lucy's hands first.
"Oh my gosh, you're even cuter in person, aren't you," Lucy gushes, fingers brushing along her soft fur. It's been a long time since she's been around any pets and her heart's already melting at the kitten's mews.
"Can I hold her, Mom?" Kade asks softly, already at the edge of his seat.
She glances up at Natsu, and he's already giving her a warm, fond look.
Lucy's smile grows, cheeks warming. His simplest looks still get her all flustered.
"Of course, sweetheart. Just remember what Natsu said."
He nods and Natsu helps him get his arms in the right position as Lucy passes Ollie over.
"Ah, she's so soft," Kade giggles, holding her against his chest. Ollie mews again in reply as he does start to pet her gently after Natsu shows him some of the motions.
"While you're holding her, I'm gonna set Happy down since he's bigger," Wendy says, and he's quick to jump up onto the tower in the corner.
"Woah, look how high he jumps!" Kade grins.
"He likes to sit up there and watch and feel it out first when there's new people," Natsu chuckles. "But he'll join us in a bit."
Ollie just mews and scrambles out of Kade's arms, across the couch and claws her way up Natsu's arm, making them laugh.
"You're a hyper little one today, aren't you," Natsu chuckles, brushing his finger along the top of her head as he held her in his other palm after detangling her from his shirt. "We gotta be careful of her claws, they're a bit sharp 'cause she's still little ok, bud?"
Kade nods, still smiling brightly as he reaches over to pet behind her ears like Natsu showed him. Lucy smiles warmly at that.
"Hey, Kade, do you wanna help me see which of these new toys Ollie likes?" Wendy asks brightly, moving to sit on the plush rug in front of them, pulling a basket of toys in front of her.
Kade agrees excitedly, jumping down by her. Ollie mews as Natsu sets her in the middle of them, Happy still observing from his perch, tail swishing.
"Hm, think I got the trick to get Happy down here." Natsu walks over to the kitchen for a moment and comes back with a tube of something. "Wanna come over, Luce? This should be fun," Natsu grins, sitting with them on the rug.
Lucy breathes a laugh, sitting beside Kade, ruffling a hand through his hair.
Ollie hops over to Natsu as soon as he tears open the package, mewing and purring up a storm as she eats up the soft treat, practically climbing up Natsu's hand.
Happy perks up instantly, hopping down and trotting over to Natsu with excited meows, trying to get to Natsu's hand too.
"Always being bribed by treats these two," Natsu laughs, giving him some too. He reaches over to bring Lucy and Kade's palms closer, putting some of the treat in their palms.
"Their tongues feel funny," Kade giggles brightly when the cats are quick to lick from their palms.
Lucy can't help but share his bright laugh too, and Happy is more than content to accept her pets after that. Even curling up in her lap with loud purrs, making Lucy's heart warm.
"Aww."
"Told ya that would work," Natsu laughs, sharing a soft look with Lucy.
Natsu's soon called out to the back to help Igneel with something and Lucy and Wendy migrated back to the couch.
"So, Natsu tells me you guys went on a date? How's it going?" Wendy asks excitedly once it's just them. "He's hardly told me anything since then," she huffs.
Lucy breathes a laugh, tucking her legs up under her, fingers fidgeting with the sleeves of her jacket. Looking over, Kade is plenty distracted with Ollie, laughing and playing with her and all the toys in the middle of the room.
"Well, it's still all so new... and we haven't put a 'label' on anything yet, but it's going pretty well," Lucy admits softly, the words making her heart swell, smoothing a hand over Happy's back who was sleeping between them now.
"Ah, that's so exciting!" Wendy squeaked, squeezing her hands together. "I had a good feeling about you guys right when Dad told me you guys first met at the complex, and all the good things I've heard about you since then. And Natsu, it's the happiest I've seen him in a long time, so I really hope you guys do become something, you both deserve this," she smiles warmly, reaching over to grip Lucy's hand softly with something deeper in her eyes.
Lucy feels her neck warm. "Thank you." She gives Wendy's hand a squeeze back. "So, how's school going?" she asks after a moment, chuckling at the long Wendy gives, flopping back against the couch.
Wendy tells her all about her latest high school drama and by the time they catch up, Natsu and his parents are calling them outside to eat.
They help Wendy get the cat's set up with their food, get washed up, and follow her out to the backyard.
It's spacious, but also cozy with a nice deck patio and pergola above with strings of bulb lights.
"It's pretty warm out, so figured we'd all enjoy it. Hope you don't mind," Grace grins, placing some plates on the patio table.
"No, of course not, this is perfect," Lucy reassures, taking a seat with Kade at the table.
"Alright, our favorite guests take first picks of the good stuff," Igneel grins brightly, bringing over a tray from where the grill he was working at on the other side of the deck to set on the table.
"First picks? I didn't agree to that," Natsu says with a teasing grin, setting down another tray and sitting across from Lucy.
"You're getting your food last just for that. You picked at everything enough while I was doing all the hard work."
They laugh at the banter. "Thank you, everything looks and smells amazing," Lucy says, starting to prepared her and Kade's plates. "Right, what do we say, bug?"
"Thank you!"
"Aw, you're so welcome, sweetheart," Grace says warmly. "Now everyone enjoy and eat up!"
And so they do, everything was indeed just as delicious as it looked as they dug in, and dinner is filled with bright laughs and warm smiles all around. Even Kade joins on some laughter as Igneel and Grace tell some entertaining stories about Natsu and Wendy were younger and everything they got into.
Even through all their playful banter, the love in evident all around her. In their words, in their eyes, and this aching feeling starts to swell in her chest. She's happy to be here with them right now and sharing this moment with them, and while she knows it doesn't do any good to compare, she couldn't shake the thought of how much she wishes she could've grown up surrounded by a whole, loving family like this.
She wishes it even more for Kade.
The thought makes her chest ache more. It feels so unfair that they had to miss out on so much.
Natsu catches her eye again in the middle of the board game Igneel had brought out for them to play after dinner, green eyes holding some question.
Lucy blinks out of her thoughts that had continued to swirl in her mind, giving him a reassuring smile and trying to be in the moment again.
She hopes it was anyway.
Eventually, after the food is practically gone and the games are over, even the majority of the desserts she'd brought, Lucy and Natsu are the only ones left outside, bulb lights above them twinkling in the dark.
Lucy had tried to help them start to clean up, but they wouldn't have it and she relented with a huff of a laugh and a nod. Kade wanted to go back inside too with Wendy to keep playing with the cats, and of course Lucy couldn't say no to those bright, pleading eyes and he was in good hands after all. She was mostly happy that he had a good time tonight.
"Everything ok, Luce? You've been kinda quiet since the game earlier?" Natsu asks softly, playing with the hem of his jacket sleeve after he'd moved into the seat beside her.
Lucy looks over and her heart warms at the concern in his eyes. So, it was obvious something was bothering her after all. Guess she didn't do that good of a job hiding it.
She sighs and shifts on her chair, biting the inside of her bottom lip.
Conflicted, part of her just wanted to deflect and say everything was fine. Though, on the other hand, they were trying to build something together and Natsu's been so kind and supportive of everything she'd shared with him so far, which meant so much to her.
Lucy takes a steadying sigh, deciding to follow her heart again.
"Growing up, my family was always small. Most times, it felt like it was just my mom and I. My father was always away on some big important business trip," she huffs, shaking her head. "We were always moving to some new big city every other year for some new opportunity he was chasing. More concerned about making his money than how we were dealing with things."
Lucy's heart ached at the memory of her mom trying to put on a brave front for Lucy for so long, but looking back, it was clear how unhappy she was all that time.
"My parents never kept in touch with any of their other family, and it was hard trying to make friends or anything when we couldn't put down roots long enough for me to learn anyone's names," she admits softly, wringing her hands together, trying to gather herself. "I feel like I hardly remember my childhood, but I do remember my mom and I barely celebrated our birthdays, let alone had any big family gatherings for holidays or anything, and being an only child, I spent a lot of time alone in the big empty houses my father insisted we have," Lucy huffs. "Then when she… when she got sick and p-passed, I felt even more alone."
"You don't have to talk about this if you don't want to."
Looking over, Natsu's eyes are warm and understanding, and it makes Lucy's heart swell.
"It's ok, thank you. I... I want to," Lucy says with a small smile. "After that, my father would continue to pester me about being perfect for this, have to be presentable for that, put on a good image at school or wherever he would drag me to. All the while not even acting like losing Mom even hurt him," her voice quivers again, chest tight with the thought of those isolating days. "I couldn't take it anymore, and happened to start hanging around some not so great people at school. I didn't think too much of it, just liked having some kind of friends even if they weren't exactly great people. I figured it wouldn't matter, since we were probably just going to leave again and wouldn't have to deal with it, but of course that's when my father conveniently decided that was the last time we would make a big move. By that time, I already met- when I um, I ultimately found out I was pregnant with Kade, everything got worse," Lucy sighs, running her hand through her hair with her other hand. She definitely didn't want to think or talk about him or that whole mess right now. "Father was furious of course. I immediately became such a shame to the "family name", and every other lowly thing he told me and still probably thinks of me," Lucy scoffs. "Anyway, he ended up cutting me off. Which I couldn't care less about, I never cared about his money or depended on it. So, there I was trying to make it on my own… He didn't want anything to do with me either once I had Kade, but I was determined to push through, barely able to manage to finish school and scrape by with my seemingly endless string of multiple jobs just to put a roof over our heads for Kade and I. He became my world and everything I did, I did for him. Even though it was just us, nothing else mattered after that." Her small smile shook, trying to keep her messy emotions in check.
"Luce..." Natsu says softly after a long moment, slowly putting his hand out closer to Lucy's, seeming to wait for her move.
Her heart warms at that, finishing the motion of lacing their fingers together. She sighs, his touch grounding her a little. Grateful for his comfort.
"I'm sorry. This ended up being a very long winded way of saying your family is so great and I love how close and loving you all are, but it just got me thinking, what if I kept Kade to myself too much all these years and made him feel as alone as I felt growing up?" Lucy worries. "It would break my heart if he has. I feel like he's missed out on so much that I couldn't give him, and I just wish he could've grown up around a family like this the whole time," she smiles sadly.
It's times like this where she feels like despite everything she's done to get them where they are, it still doesn't feel like enough. Would anything ever be enough? Thoughts spiraling and it makes the pressure in her chest feel like it's close to bursting.
"Hey, first, thank you for sharing all that with me. I know how hard that is," Natsu says softly, giving her hand another squeeze. "I'm so sorry you had to lose your mom and go through all that you did. It's obvious how much strength you have to get yourself and Kade through that on your own."
Lucy breathes an empty laugh, not feeling any bit of said strength.
"I know it's probably hard to see that sometimes, but it's true. I can see it pretty clearly, Luce," he smiles warmly. "It's one of the many things I admire about you."
She gives him a shaky grateful smile.
"Sure, Kade may have missed out on some 'typical' family things, but more importantly, you were there for him all this time when he needed it, giving him all the best you could all while you're just trying to get by. Made sure he was taken care of, have a safe warm space to sleep, fed, loved, and that's as real as any family gets and it was everything he needed and I'm sure he felt that. So, please don't say or think you're not enough, because you always are and always will be."
Lucy was gripping Natsu's hand tightly now, pointless to try and stop her tears.
"I-It's just so hard to get past that feeling," Lucy's voice quivers.
"I know," he says softly, moving their hands to put an arm around her shoulder and hold her as close as the chairs would allow them to be. "It is hard, but I'll be right here to remind you how amazing, smart, beautiful, and everything else you are whenever you need to remember." Lucy breathes a watery laugh at his bright grin, brushing off her tears with her sleeve. "Or for whatever else you may need. You don't have to do things alone anymore, I'll always be here for you. No matter what."
This time, Lucy's heart swells with so much affection it warms her whole body at the conviction in his voice and eyes.
She feels a bit lighter, just talking about some of the baggage she's been carrying around all this time that's been heavier than she realized. Just having someone listen and just be there for support and not feel judged, it means more to her than she could say.
Lucy reaches up to caress his cheek. "Thank you. You're too good to me," she whispers, leaning in closer to press their foreheads together.
Natsu's expression softens, curling some of her hair behind her ear. "No such thing." His palm curls at the back of her neck, and kisses her, tender and slow.
The touch sends a pleasant thrum down her spine as she kisses him back deeper. His comforting scent of woodsy warmth surrounding her and just making her feel content and safe in his arms, making her sigh and melt against him.
"Thanks for having us today," Lucy says after they happily enjoy a few more warm kisses. "Kade couldn't take the smile off his face if he tried with the kitties," she chuckles, lacing their fingers together between them again. "And Wendy is so cute."
"I knew he'd love them," Natsu laughs. "Anytime though, we all love hanging out with you guys," he says warmly.
"I do too," Lucy says, with a squeeze to his hand.
They stay out there enjoying each other's company for a bit longer until it gets too cold and decide to head inside, where they find everyone in the living room, Kade in between Natsu's parents, dozing off with Happy curled up beside him.
"Aw, sweetheart. I'm sorry, we could've came in sooner," Lucy says softly, reaching over the back of the couch to run her hand through Kade's hair.
"Don't apologize. All the excitement must've caught up with him once we sat down and put a movie on," Grace laughs warmly. "He's the sweetest."
"He is," Lucy agrees with an affectionate smile. "Ready, Kade? Guess we should head home," she sighs as Kade answers with a yawn. "I was telling Natsu, thank you all so much for having us today."
"Of course! You're both welcome anytime. We'll be sure to plan another one soon," Igneel grins brightly, following Grace and Wendy's motion to stand and give Lucy and Kade a hug.
Natsu goes over to kneel and offer his arms to Kade to pick him up. "C'mon, bud. Say bye to the kitties 'till next time, your nice warm bed is waiting."
Kade smiles sleepily, patting Happy beside him before easily falling into Natsu's arms.
"He's going to get spoiled with that," Lucy chuckles, gathering their things and containers of food Grace and Igneel loaded her up with.
They all say their goodbyes again as they head out, making it back to the car where Natsu helps Kade get buckled in.
"Did you have fun with the kitties?" Natsu asks, ruffling the boys hair.
"Yup! So fun and fluffy," Kade giggles sleepily.
"They are huh," Natsu chuckles, leaning against the door jam. "But remember to get some good sleeps this week for our last game and see you soon, ok?"
"Promise."
Lucy shares an amused smile with Natsu as the boys knock their fists together. He closes Kade's door softly and walks around with Lucy to her side.
"Hope you have a good week too, Luce. Maybe I can try to stop by for another lunch date," Natsu smiles, that warm one she loves that reaches his eyes.
"Thank you. Hm, I may just have to hold you to that," Lucy says playfully.
"Gladly."
They share a meaningful look and Lucy leans in to wrap her arms around him in a hug. Warm, strong arms hug her back tightly, feeling him press a kiss to the side of her head. She takes such comfort just from their simple embraces like this, making her heart swell as they say their goodbyes.
Lucy presses a quick kiss to his jaw when they pull back, liking the way Natsu's smile grows and takes that mental image with her the whole way home, wearing her own matching one.
Thanks for reading!
Lucy was in all her feels this time around, but yay for opening up and them getting closer! Kade and the kitties, I couldn't help myself T_T
And also yay for more cute little dates for these two uwu
Hope you like what's next!