Never Give Up

INTOXICATED

The next day, the entire school are talking about Gray and Yukino's relationship. It didn't surprise Gray that they already knew about it, since nothing can spread faster than gossip. Who started it? No one exactly knows.

Lucy was not happy that the news already reached their school. She doesn't want to be the center of attention. But that is inevitable, since her schoolmates knew about her feelings to Gray.

Everyone was curious on how she was taking it. They somehow felt pity for her, but Lucy put up a brave face. She just smile at anyone who attempt to ask her on how she was.

Lucy would avoid Gray at school. Whenever she sees him walking with Yukino, she would go the other direction. Sometimes she pretends that she did not see them. She would just walk pass them without glancing.

Gray didn't know what to feel. Should he be glad that Lucy is staying away from him? Or should he be worried?He just felt more confused.

Lucy, on the other hand, was struggling. She's getting tired pretending to be okay when she was dying inside. It was a painful week for her, that's why she felt relieved when Friday finally came.

It was their last class and it was nearing its end.

"Just a few more seconds, Luce." She thought.

"King Toma's will soon retire." Professor August said. "His daughter, Princess Hisui, will take over the kingdom once he steps down. It was said that Fiore will face a major--"

Professor August's speech came into a halt when the bell rang. The students started gathering their things.

"For your assignment, study the different cities and towns surrounding Fiore. We'll continue our discussion on Monday. You may leave the room." Professor August said as he gathered his things.

Lucy quickly stood up and head to the door without saying a word. She hurriedly walks towards the exit.

Lucy was about to descend the stairs when Levy called her name.

"Lucy, wait up!" She said.

Lucy halted and turned around to see Levy running towards her.

Lucy waited for Levy to catch up. When she reached her, she was breathing heavily with her hands on her chest. "You walked so fast? What's the hurry?" She said in between breaths.

"I just wanted to get out of here." Lucy said. "Why did you follow me?"

"I want to go with you." Levy said.

Lucy's forehead formed a crease. "What about Gajeel?"

"He'll go with the boys. I already told him that I'll tag along with you." She said.

Lucy sighed. "Fine. But we better go now before it gets too crowded."

Levy nodded.

The two of them walked fast towards the bus. They were lucky that there were only a few students inside the vehicle. Lucy dragged Levy towards the far end seats.

Lucy took the seat beside the window. Levy sat next to her.

"So...uhm...what's your plan during the weekend?" Levy asked to break the silence.

Lucy raised her brow. "Is that what you really wanna ask?"

Levy bit her lip. "Well...the truth is I wanted to ask you how you're doing, but I know you've been avoiding the topic about..." Levy looked at the other passengers to check if they're listening. "Gray and Yukino." She whispered.

Lucy winced. It's painful to hear those names together.

"I'm...I'm quite tired." Lucy said.

"Oh, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have--"