Letters to You

Chapter 5

Levy,

Hello again, little bird. Gihi, that nickname has grown on me, and it suits you.

Since you wanted to get to know me, and you mentioned you liked to read, I left a book in your letterbox with my letter. It's a book about America. I dream to go there one day, and break free of these stupid classes. Besides, it's not like I have any reason to stay here. Actually, the song you heard me humming this morning was an American tune. I don't know the name, I just heard a few drunken military men singing it at the bar a few weeks ago.

I find it hard to believe that you have no dreams. Everyone has some kind of dream, even if it is small. What do you think about when you look up at the stars, or when you walk in the gardens on those clear nights?

Speaking of the stars, I saw you tonightfrom my window. You were looking up at them, your face so peaceful as a small smile played at your lips and your eyes twinkled with admiration. Tomorrow night, I'll put a lantern in my window, so that you know which one is mine. It wouldn't be fair for me to be the only one who knows where the other one sleeps, right?

And, as for me being handsome, some may accuse you of being blind, little bird. Facial and arm piercings aren't something very common in our society, and they usually turn people away from me immediately. My childhood friend, Juvia Lockser, may agree with you, but I believe her opinion is skewed because of our close friendship. Actually, I think you two would get along quite well because you seem alike in many ways-your love for reading, music, and the night sky. The only difference really is your social status.

Although you are a noble woman, I would disagree with you only being good for one thing. I would disagree with that about any woman. Like I said before, you aren't merely objects for childbearing, but a gift that any man would be lucky to receive. And one that he should give his entire life to making you happy-not the other way around.

That is why I hate most nobles. They are too focused on getting married and having a male son to continue the bloodline. As for me, if I am ever lucky enough to find a woman who takes me, I want a daughter. I have never had a family to speak of, and I grew up with Juvia, seeing the way she was treated because she is a woman. I'd like to change that for my own daughter. I would give her to freedom to choose her own husband, and to do what she enjoys. But, that could just be the fruitless dreams of a poor man.

As a noble yourself, you probably find my thoughts foolish. Perhaps they are. But, they are still my own thoughts, and no one else's.

I'm afraid it's getting late, little bird. I should be going to bed. Although, since I have met you, sleep seems to be avoiding me. When it comes, you appear even in my dreams. I wonder if it is the same for you, or if perhaps I am the only one unable to get you off my mind.

I look forward to your next letter, Levy.

Yours,

Gajeel

~~~~~~

I smiled as I held Gajeels letter in one hand while the other held open his book. I hadn't stopped reading it after his letter. I looked out my window now, my smile softening when I saw the lantern in his window though I couldn't see him. "Dreams huh?" I said to myself as I set his book down and looked to the sky again.

" I don't think the stars have any answers for you." Lucy said from behind me as she entered. " Mmm." I simply said as she sat beside me. " It would be a nice change though." I said after a moment and looked to her as she read my letter. " You know it's not nice to read other people's letters." I said as she smiled at the paper. She giggled softly. " He sounds like he's in love." She said softly and I couldn't help but blush. "Lucy! The man barely knows me!" The blonde laughed and shook her head. " Love can come as fast as she wishes. She doesn't take others into consideration." She said as she looked out now to the lantern across the garden.

" Thinking about Natsu again ah?" I asked, grinning wickedly before laughing as she turned beat red. " Levy!" She squeeked, her voice an octave to high only making me laugh harder. " Come crazy woman, walk with me. This room is too stuffy." I said. Her blushing face turned into a wicked grin. "One should be careful not to get too close to lanterns." I spun on my heel, trying to hide my burning face. " Good bye Lady Heartfillia!" I called as I headed for the door leading to the garden.

It was later than I normally go for walks, but it was a cool night, allowing me to clear my head. Lucy didn't join me, I assumed she had gone to bed or just left me alone. I sighed a little as I walked along the edge of the koi pond, sitting on a bench near by before pulling Gajeels letter from my kimono sleeve. I had started tucking them into the hidden pockets so I would have them close. I looked into the sky again, looking for answers I knew they wouldn't have, and imagining the man who was only feet from me that I wasn't allowed to know.