Observing Nashi conversing with Gale and Levy, Natsu narrowed his eyes, attempting to concentrate. There was an inexplicable sensation that enveloped him in her presence, though he struggled to pinpoint its origin. Her smile, her laughter, her overall demeanor—it all felt eerily familiar. Even her scent held a mixture of recognition and novelty, with hints of vanilla intertwined with another elusive aroma. The fragrance of vanilla acted as a gateway, transporting his thoughts back to a simpler time, a time when she was by his side.
Lucy.
Natsu shook his head vigorously, trying to dispel the memories that threatened to resurface.
No, you can't dwell on her. You're committed to Lisanna now.
Despite the passage of years, Natsu couldn't ignore the lingering love he held for the enchanting blonde who had once been his partner. However, he knew he had made a choice—a choice in favor of Lisanna. Thoughts of Lucy frequently crossed his mind, but he had resolved to suppress those emotions. As much as he cherished Lucy, he had consciously opted for Lisanna. While he had initially contemplated ending their relationship if it didn't work out, he couldn't bring himself to shatter her heart. Even if his feelings didn't align with hers, Lisanna remained his dear friend, and he genuinely desired her happiness, even if it meant sacrificing his own. Moreover, what purpose would it serve? The love of his life had vanished, and he had accepted the grim reality that he would never see her again.
Startled, Natsu felt a chill run down his spine as a cold hand landed on his shoulder. He turned to find his girlfriend, Lisanna, gazing at him with concern etched on her face.
"Natsu, is everything alright? You've been unusually quiet," she inquired. Natsu offered her a smile, although its warmth failed to reach his eyes as it once did.
"Don't worry, Lisanna. I've just been preoccupied with thoughts about my new job," he replied. Lisanna's discomfort became evident, unable to deceive herself. The notion of Nashi staying with her boyfriend didn't sit well with her. It was already awkward enough that Nashi slept in his clothes, but now she would be residing at his house, requiring constant supervision to ensure her safety.
Lisanna felt an unfamiliar emotion stirring within her, one she hadn't experienced since Lucy's presence. She swiftly brushed it aside, burying it deep within the recesses of her mind.
I am not jealous of that little girl.
" Natsu. If it becomes overwhelming for you, you can always take a break and let someone else from the guild look after her for a while," Mirajane chimed in, having overheard their conversation. Natsu nodded, acknowledging the validity of her suggestion. Mira giggled, perplexing both Lisanna and Natsu. With a playful gesture, she pointed across the guild hall.
"You might want to bring Nashi home soon, Natsu. She seems exhausted," Mira advised. Natsu observed Nashi struggling to keep her head up, battling fatigue. He let out a sigh, rising from his seat.
"I suppose you're right," he conceded, heading towards Levy's table. Levy noticed Natsu's approach and gently shook Nashi's shoulder. Nashi's weariness dissipated as Levy gestured towards Natsu.
"Well, it's time for you to head to bed," Levy said. Nashi nodded eagerly, thrilled at the prospect of spending some quality time alone with her father. Although she couldn't disclose the truth to him, she was determined to earn his affection nonetheless. Nashi hopped off the bench, turning to bid farewell to Levy and Gale.
"Goodbye, Gale," she waved at her newfound friend, receiving a reciprocal wave in return. Nashi hurried over to Natsu's side, radiating with joy. However, Natsu's enthusiasm for this new development paled in comparison. Nashi reminded him too much of Lucy, the person he was striving to move on from. Yet, he couldn't defy the master's orders, so he had to find a way to cope.
