Of Keys and Flames

Chapter 6

Lucy's P.O.V

I couldn't get my makeup right. Couldn't do it. Every time I thought I'd finished I'll touch up one thing then...fuck. At first it was my cut crease. Thought I'd add more dark brown shadow for dimension, applied it to my crease, put too much now I sat and blended my mistake for God knows how long. Once I finally fixed it my idiot self thought it would be a good idea to emphasize my wing...guess what I did for ten minutes? Needless to say, my bottom hurts and my face had enough poking and prodding. 

I came to the conclusion that if I spent more time in this bathroom I might as well call it a night because I won't leave until my face is beat to perfection. Let's not talk about the prolonged heart attack Natsu gave me all day. My whole routine was thrown off just because I didn't see him when I woke up. I was left without his heat, his body weight and overall the comfort that he provided me. I left empty. I didn't know how overly attached I am until I sat in the darkest corner of the guild, staring at the door with my leg bouncing furiously against the wood floors. I couldn't even find the effort to pull a cute outfit so I opted for a black and white look with my hair in a messy bun. 

To keep my mind busy I helped Master with the guild's paperwork, reorganized the library, spent time with Levy (after I tore her away from Gajeel) and went shopping for my outfit. Speaking of which, I was not looking forward to my dinner tonight. The only thing that was keeping me from bailing was the free food, and the lack of effort I have to put in. The worst thing, however, is that I have history with Daichi. But will I ever let somebody find that out? Hell no. I'm hoping that he wouldn't stick around enough for anyone to raise questions. 

With my mind on a mission I quickly breezed in and out of stores with the intent of finishing at a reasonable time. I didn't want to spend much money on a dress, yet I wanted to appear clean and classy. I opted for a two piece white skirt and crop top. The skirt was a bit longer and the crop top had a little more sleeve stopping about a fourth of the way. Paired with large peach overcoat gold high heels I had a majority of my ensemble prepared. I'll just have to pluck a few gold accessories here and there and paint my nails a nude color then I'll be good to go. 

I passed by my house and dropped off my bags before leaving for the guild. Though, I made sure I took some time out to scan my apartment for any signs of Natsu. To my disappointment there was none. I made Mira aware that I'll be having someone picking me up from here and to have the guild members calm down and not make a fuss, because no he's not a boyfriend, no I'm not in love with him and no I'm not using him to make Natsu jealous. All questions brought up by our dearest Mira. 

As soon as the clock hit seven, I said my goodbyes and left to get ready. Imagine my surprise when I saw Natsu laying on the bed looking half dead.

"Where were you all day? I stayed here worried sick especially when you weren't in bed this morning. Never mind that, you look tired and sick. Should I stay home? I'm going out tonight and I'm not coming back 'till late." I questioned.

"You're going out?" Natsu asked. To me he's getting worse by the second and if I don't act quick my baby is gonna pass out on me.

"Yes Natsu, I just said this. Do you need me to stay home? I'm not leaving you like this." I prodded again.

"Where? With who?" That's really all he got from that?  Ugh, typical.

"A restaurant with a man that I'm doing business with. Don't worry about it. I have to be there by 9 but I'm going to try to come home as soon as possible. Let me make you something to eat before I leave." I prepared a hearty sandwich that should hold him over until I come back with more food from the restaurant. It only took me a few minutes and on my way back I swiped a cold bottle of water from the fridge. 

My heart ached when I saw him. He looked so...tired. I was only moments away from calling off this whole damn dinner. I wanted to be the one to take care of him and cheer him up. I wanted to be his piece paradise. Hidden in plain sight, and always there, because if it was up to me, I'd always be there. 

Propping a couple pillows under his head I began to feed him. Usually, he'd object and do it himself, but he took my help graciously. After he ate, I made him down the water bottle and cleaned up in a hast. 

That's where I was about an hour ago and I'm finally finished with piecing my carefully chosen attire and donning them to perfection. Oh yes I can be vain. Stepping out the bathroom, I walked leisurely to the nearest clock to check the time. While doing so, I felt my a strong gaze watching my every move. If I heard correctly, a sharp intake of breath too. With a smirk I sauntered over to the bed and by sat his legs. I got close to face and look down his lips and bit my lip. Slowly gazing up at him I tilted my head to the side and spoke huskily, "I'll be back soon, okay?" He looked at me the way animal would savor his prey before devouring it. But Lucy you just fed him you might think. Problem is that it wasn't the thing I wanted to feed him tonight. However, he's weak and that would be taking advantage. 

"Why do I have to be a good person?" I thought

I got up with grace and sashayed over put on my overcoat. Grabbing my bag I opened the door, but not before saying, "Lock up will you?" And with a wink, I was gone. 

                                                                                         ~*~