At The Top Of The Tower

Who's Outside My Door?

{LUCY'S POV}
"You want to take a few days off?" Department leader Makarov asks.

"Yes sir. I'm not feeling well."

"Alright, I'll handle it. Get some rest and feel better." He sounds concerned.

"Thank you sir."

I hang up and sigh. Everything's become a huge mess. I can't believe I confessed to Natsu. But I didn't confess to Natsu? I confessed to E.N.D. They're the same person so I really did confess to Natsu?

I curl up in a ball on my bed, hugging my pillow. Ugh, I'm so embarrassed!

My doorbell rings. I stand up and look through the peephole. It's him.

I open my door but leave the chain in place.

"Why didn't you just break in like you always do?" I croak then wince.

Natsu's eyebrows furrow. "I was going into work but Mira texted saying you're sick?"

"Oh so you're coming to make fun of me now?" I snap. "I bet you thought I was real stupid a few days ago when I confessed to you."

Natsu reddens. Then he realizes what I've said and his eyes widen. "Luce—"

"Elfman told me everything, E.N.D. Save it! Here I was beginning to think that... you're actually a decent human being. Did you think it was funny to lead me on? I—" my voice cracks, "—I hate you!"

I slam the door in his face then lean my back against it and sink to the floor.

"Lucy, listen to me!" Natsu says loudly. "I wasn't leading you on! I was really happy because you talked to me like you used to in college."

My heart is pounding. Tears well up in my eyes.

"I love you, Luce. I love your smile, I love your attitude. I've loved you since the day we first met. Please, open the door! I'm sorry Luce."

My feelings... are requited?

My feelings are requited.

My feelings are requited!

My toes curl and I resist the urge to squeal in delight. I'll let Natsu stew for a little bit out of pettiness.

"I'll prove it to you!" Natsu shouts. "I'm not giving up, Lucy! I'll prove to you that I'm the same guy you met in college! That I'm worthy of your crush! That I was never messing around with your feelings!"

Truth be told, I already believe him. Oh Mavis, the entire apartment complex can probably hear him! I cover my blushing face with my hands.

What do I do?!