Lies and Love (Graylu)

Problems and Solutions

"Lucy lived with her father in Magnolia actually. But five years ago she moved out and came here. This house was owned by a friend of mine who had also just moved and I told Jude and he bought this house for Lucy to live in. She was already pregnant at the time too I bet. I live only two houses down from here and I know all of my neighbors and none of us ever saw Lucy with any male company at all during those times, and not even eight months since she came here, she gave birth. I knew Lucy needed all the help she can get, seeing as her job could barely keep her up with all her kids, and since I am a widow with no children of my own, I volunteered to help in any way that I can. Everyone else around the neighborhood helped in every way they can too, like giving her advice or sending over some things for the babies. It wasn't easy for Lucy believe me, I mean, being a single mother taking care of three kids by herself? She broke down more than a dozen times early on but of course she's doing a lot better now. I really admire the girl, not a single complaint out of her from day one of motherhood. She's a real fighter."

Just talking about Lucy, Gray noticed, brightened Mira's features. It was apparent at this point, although she wasn't at the age of being a grandmother, that that was how she felt for the kids and that she sees Lucy as somewhat like a daughter to her.

"What is Lucy's job anyway?" he asked, trying not to imagine Lucy weeping from all the stress of taking care of the kids. He couldn't- wouldn't be guilty. She brought it upon herself after all. She wouldn't have had such a rough time if she hadn't left in the first place.

The older woman's features brightened even more.

"She's a coach, she does voice lessons. She's one of the more popular music teachers around Hargeon actually."

Somehow, Gray wasn't surprised at this. But he was slightly surprised however that Lucy settled with giving singing lessons rather than pursuing a career for being an actual singer which he knew she wanted for as long as he knew her, or rather when he thought he knew her.

"But it isn't enough though," Mira continued, getting Gray's attention yet again. "You can only earn so much at being a voice coach and it's never enough for her to support her kids, not to mention she's got three of them. So on weekends she sings at 8island, a western themed restaurant for additional income."

"She can't support her own kids?" Gray asked, trying to stop a frown from showing on his features. This thought alone was disturbing to him. He never knew Lucy had any sort of financial issues. When he knew her then she wasn't the richest of people but she and her father got by well enough for an average family.

Mira shook her head. "That's why she, or rather, we are all grateful for Natsu's help."

Gray clenched his jaw at the mention of the man. "What about Lucy's father?" he asked, trying not to think about Natsu or Layla. He's had a hell of a time trying to control his temper on his way here. He drove like a maniac and it had taken him every ounce of control in him to not purposely hit someone with his car along the streets.

The smile on her face faltered, replaced by a sad one.

"Jude died only just a year ago because of an illness. He had been helping Lucy in every way he could by visiting often, spending time with the kids, offering financial aid, so when he passed away, Lucy was left to fend for herself and take care of the children. I bet she would've broken down to no return if Natsu wasn't around for her. Without Natsu, Layla would probably have- are you alright?"

Gray snapped out of it and turned to her. Mira was looking down pointedly at his hands which were on the arms of the chair he was sitting on. They were both pale, as white as a sheet from his death grip on the wood.

"I-"

"Gray?"

The two adults turned to the doorway where the boys were standing, watching them with questioning faces.