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R&R

*Disclaimer: I do not own anything. Mashima-sensai does.*

"She had loved him for such a long time, she thought. How was it that she did now know him at all?" — Cassandra Clare, Clockwork Prince

Chapter 16: Regrets and Revelations

by crownbutt123

The lights flickered.

A pungent odor lingered.

There, in the horrid room, stood a tall man, clad in a purple cloak. Beside him was his right-hand man, leaning against the wall casually. The said man's hair fairly resembled his master's cloak, adding a peculiar effect to their purple air.

"The test-outs?" the man in the dark cloak beckoned.

"Sir, the test-out is superb."

"Then, show me."

"Yes, sir." The subservient member called for the other man, who came with him a prisoner. They seated the prisoner forcefully onto the chair in front of their master, for him to get an uninterrupted view of the effects.

"Let me go, you monsters!" The prisoner yelled to no avail, as the men in the room moved forward to shut him up.

They slipped the pill in whilst he protested.

"Now, now, prisoners shouldn't be so loud. You guys are criminals." The master coyly whispered to the man roped into the chair. At this point, he was thrashing his body here and there, as his pupils dilated. The pills took its effect.

The room went silent.

The prisoner then ripped through the ropes with inhumane powers, tearing apart the chair as well. He roared like a feral animal, his voice echoing in the warehouse. The men surrounding the havoc ran to the wild prisoner and struggled to put him back in the chair.

"Perfect. Absolutely perfect."

"Master Jose?"

"Just watch, my boys." Jose whispered, watching the prisoner trying to release himself again. His body wracked from the overwhelming strength that he just attained.

"What's your name?" Jose whispered, and surprisingly the prisoner spat at his face. The man earned a relentless slap across the face. "Let's try this again. What do your fellow prisoners call you?"

The man seemed to have felt the dark aura as he gritted, "..They call me 999."

Jose frowned, partially satisfied at the response, "Listen, 999. We planted some sort of…a clock into your body."

The man visibly flinched.

"I doubt a low-life like you would understand anything, but I'd like to flaunt my knowledge." Jose grinned as he got on one knee, "You see, us humans have DNA that replicate to create more little bitch cells to maintain my valuable life and, surprisingly, your life as well. It is limited. So, all I did was accelerate the speed of consumption. Brilliant isn't it? Oh, but what's another effect?"

The man attempted a holler, but only came out as a squeak only so silent for Jose to hear.

"You guessed right," he teased, "999, your body gained unsurpassable strength thanks to that acceleration.."

"…"

"But," Jose leaned in, "that also means your body is exponentially aging. No," Jose snorted before continuing, "you are dying."

The man in the chair sweat-dropped.

"Do I have the antidote, you ask?" The man in the purple cloak opened his arms, smirking evilly, and answered his own question, "Why yes, I do." He laughed maniacally, poking the prisoner's chest, "You do things I tell you to, and the cure will be in right here." Jose opened the man's palms to emphasize his speech, before shunning it away like filth.

With that, he turned for his leave, giving his last advice to the man in the chair. "For your interest, that pill was set to kill you in a fortnight."

The prisoner started to scream and turn in his seat, seeking release.

"Boys."

"YES SIR!"

Jose's men automatically ran to the man and took him out of the warehouse. On his way out, Jose beckoned his right-hand man to follow him.

"Cobra."

"I hear ya."

"I want you to investigate this girl."

The subordinate took the documents from waiting hands. He briefly looked at the picture, finding himself lost in a pair of honey brown orbs. It was indeed a young girl. He looked up at the man in front of him, undoubtedly with a questioning look, but was faced with his master's retreating back.

"Take any means necessary, if you know what I mean my boy."

Cobra smirked.

"I hear ya."

::::::::::

SHOOBY DA BOP! SHOOBY DA BOP! SHOOBY DA BOP!

"Uhn…."

The sun shone piercingly at the bluenette's eyes, causing her to squirm. The light hadn't been there, but now it was burning her eyes, seeping through her tightly closed eye lids.

SHOOBY DA BOP! SHOOBY DA BOP! SHOOBY DA BOP!

Levy turned in her position, avoiding both the sun and the awful sounds ringing in the room. She smiled, enjoying the dead silence and the shade she attained.

It was peaceful.

It was then she felt the warm rhythmic breathing on her forehead, along with a light snore. She wondered when she had begun to snore in her sleep. She forced her eyes open, suddenly aware that the warmth that she was curled up upon was another human being.

"Ga—..!"

Levy clapped her mouth with her free hand, trying to suppress the redness crawling up her neck. Her eyes narrowed on Gajeel's sleeping face. She was tucked right under his chin, her hair flattened with his one of his huge palms. She looked up. He had his lips slightly parted, breathing rhythmically. He was on his sides, towering her small figure. She could only think, no wonder she had a shade when she moved away from the light.

How had she ended up here? She remembered being tired and hungry? Had she fallen asleep? Much to her own horror, she had let herself be dragged by the model whom she had had suspicions on. Feelings were inappropriate in a profession, and she already had this talk with herself! So, why had she let herself fall asleep in the man's arms?

Her very first reaction was to check if she was clothed — indeed she was. She noticed that he was in his yukata, as well as herself. Except, she was tucked under a thick blanket, while Gajeel was to her side, not sharing the blanket. She wanted to sigh in relief, thanking his manners, if 'manners' was the right way to put it.

She let out a breath she had been holding.

Slowly, she dragged her eyes down his face to his open chest. His yukata had slightly parted from his sleep, and on the crevice of his outfit, there was a pale hand tucked in. Her mind blanked.

Gajeel didn't have pale hands.

Testing her suspicions, Levy twitched her fingers to see if it was hers. An animalistic growl escaped the Gajeel's lips, his features slightly flinching, before relaxing again. Unfortunately, she had just felt the man's hard flesh against her frail fingertips, and she just wanted to scream in humiliation.

Despite the need to quickly pull her arm out, she made slow movements, making sure not to wake up the man. As she slid her hand out of the deep cavern of flesh, she trembled, accidentally scraping the skin of his chest with her sharp nails.

"M-Mph!"

Instantly, without mercy, Levy felt her body violently jolt into the air and landed flat on her back with a loud thump. She felt her heart jump out in surprise. Her arms were bonded above her head, and a heavy mass sat on her hips. She felt a cold steel shoved against her throat, its sharpness taking away Levy's breath.

A drop of blood trickled down her pale neck.

And even though her eyes were open, Levy had just started to register the man in front of her — the growling figure was darting his gaze at her. Red, slitted orbs were glaring right into her own shocked eyes. Gajeel's heavy, irregular, breathing fanned against her face. His fangs were fully revealed, making him look more like a feral animal showered in pure fury…

…and bloodlust.

Neither spoke.

Seconds passed.

The bonded prey was far too shocked and frightened to find her voice, long lost in her fears.

The predator was awoken too abruptly, unable to register into his mind that it was his little Levy that he was crushing beneath him.

"Gaj—" Her voice couldn't project his name fully. Tears began to fall down her temples, dripping into her red ears.

And it was the tears that awoke the beast back to reality. The tears shoved sense into Gajeel and his black slits dilated like his normal eyes that Levy begged to see again.

"Levy…?!"

Gajeel hastily chucked the swiss army knife to the floor.

He let go of her arms and hastily sat up, pushing himself off of her hips.

Without further thought, Gajeel embraced the crying little girl into an embrace he never thought he'd give to anyone in his life. Nonetheless, Levy hicked and trembled visibly in his strong arms; the shock coursing through her body.

"Fuck Levy…" Gajeel cursed, pulling the woman tighter into his arms. He didn't even know what and why he was doing so, but he wished to the gods in the sky that this would help relieve her shock.

And he wished moreso that she wouldn't see him in the dark light.

"I…Fuck. Shit..I—Fuck." He closed his eyes shut.

SHOOBY DA BOP! SHOOBY DA BOP! SHOOBY DA BOP!

The alarm rang again, getting Gajeel's attention. He looked wistfully at his vibrating phone. He had really screwed up. It was six a.m. in the morning — he was supposed to be out of the damn room, not sitting beside the girl he promised to be away from. More or less, had gave her a life-lasting shock. He had set the alarm to escape in the wake of dawn, but he had screwed up big time. Why had he fallen asleep?

"G-Gajeel, blood.."

He quickly released her to see the wound he had accidentally caused. "Shit. Just a sec."

Gajeel lifted her up into his arms and made his way for the bathroom. He set her frail body down on the toilet seat, slightly removing her hair from sticking to the wound on her neck. Levy sat still, staring into space. She could hear Gajeel shuffling through his covers, bringing certain items back. After a minute, Gajeel came back and knelt down beside the shivering girl. He quickly worked on his ministrations, being careful with the sterilizers.

Gajeel broke the silence.

"It'll sting…"

When he looked up, Levy nodded, her eyes sparkling with a tint of fear. He quickly turned away from the look he hated — the look he always evoked — and continued fixing up her wounds.

He was so stupid. He was confident that he could wake up and leave before she awoke. But even that was stupid too. How would she have taken the situation, in another man's bed, the man not present? Why he had decided to take her to his room in the first place was unquestionably ridiculous. It was so selfish; he had wanted to keep the sleeping beauty against him. He was a sinner. How could he?

Moreover, his very own habits almost killed her.

Gajeel stared at his own working hands, stripping the bandaid from its packaging. His very hands were full of so many scars, carrying unforgettable history within. He had almost messed up again.

No, he already messed up—

"Gajeel..?"

He looked up, his gaze slightly unfocused. In response, Levy looked down, shying away from his forced composure. He looked murderous and so cold, almost like he had no soul within. She slightly shivered, and would have ran away if Gajeel hadn't been curing her cut so gently. If she didn't know what people meant when they called Gajeel 'scary,' she knew now.

She forced a smile, "Y-You look scary when you…you have that look."

Though he was unsure what 'look' she was referring to, Gajeel could guess he probably looked dead serious, and people around him never took that as a good sign. He got up from his knees and forced a smile back at her, trying to relieve his hard features.

He stood there for a dragged moment, trying to choose the right words. She was just sitting there, shivering like a leaf. It was not like her. She was shy, yes, but strong. She wasn't one for fear. He knew that Levy was staunch even when she had come to his house that day. She didn't even flinch unless he purposely teased her.

But that same woman was looking back at him with eyes he most detested. So, he spit out his words like acid, the unfamiliar tone coming out awkward.

"I'm sorry."

He had said it with his head turned away, missing the rare sight of Levy's surprised expression. But when he did drag his eyes back to hers, he saw the remaining fear in her eyes, which he would have perversely relished had it not been the bluenette he seemed to fear.

Yes. Fear.

Feeling exposed under her gaze, Gajeel quickly turned around and reached a towel his size and handed it to her, "Here. You can take a shower."

"T-Thanks" so she replied, if only to kill the silence that suffocated her.

He nodded his response as he took his leave. He made sure to lock the door for her on the way out, hoping it would appease the girl. And as soon as he shut the door, Gajeel's efforted smile broke down. He gritted his teeth, leaning against the washroom door.

"Fuck."

The model cursed himself for the day's start. Nothing ever turned out his way. It was almost as if everything was twisted from the moment he was born; as if he was some cursed child perfectly suitable to be the nemesis of the damn world. No. It all started with his damned father. He went off and fuckin' died.

Gajeel sighed and opened his eyes, listening to the running water. His hands were shivering with killer intent, and he knew it. He was just a sinner, probably like his dead father. Fuck, he barely knew the old man, and he was blaming him. It was pathetic.

The sound of Levy pumping the shampoo echoed all the way to the other side.

He needed to let off some steam, now.

: : : : Tenrou Manors. Gajeel's room. Morning: : : :

When she came out of the shower, clad in only a flimsy towel, she had expected her face to go bright red at Gajeel's crude comments.

But was instead met with a little note, stuck to a pile of new clothes she had never seen before.

"Steppin out for a bit. See u at the shooting. Lily'll pick u up soon. Don't be naked Shrimp —G."

To her own surprise, she was slightly disappointed. She had been fussing in the bathroom, debating whether she should ask for clothes, or risk herself by coming out in only a towel. She didn't know what got her thinking that maybe getting Gajeel to blush would be pleasurable. But the risk was too big, she told herself, because, Mavis, the last time she saw Gajeel in a towel she almost had a nosebleed.

She read the note again, and a smile formed on her lips. Below the note, there was a cheeky indigo jumpsuit with a pair of black slippers, designed with studs that matched his own piercings. There was also an indigo headband, studded iron bracelet to match the overall outfit. There was even a pair of basic black underwear!

She noticed that the price tags were all raggedly cut and thrown into the trash bin in the corner of the room. Evidently, Gajeel wasn't a man of little details. But he tried. Trying, nonetheless. She found it cute, almost.

Almost.

Gajeel was crass and rude to leave her with a note like that alone in his room, but she had to admit: he sure knew how to care for a woman. Not without with incredible fashion sense as well.

Her initial disappointment was long forgotten, as the bluenette busied her self. She hummed an unknown tune as she adored herself in the mirror. Everything fitted her perfectly, and the choice of color made her appear pale, almost like Juvia —

Idiot! Why're you comparing yourself to Juvia again!

Levy looked in the mirror to see her face had gone red from embarrassment again. "Stupid…They're just friends."

KNOCK KNOCK

Levy abruptly turned and ran to the door, knowing it was Lily. And like she expected, she was greeted with a man in his usual tux.

"My, you look stunning today, Miss Levy." He smiled, looking at her wholly.

"Thank you!" Levy chirped, slightly flustered.

"Gajeel sure has an odd way of marking what's his, doesn't he?" Lily couldn't help it. He needed to make a comment because, hey, what else was an old man going to live for?

Levy looked up, confused, to which Lily indicated with his eyes. Levy could understand the implications when his eyes were trailing to her iron studded bracelets, especially with his smug face that resembled Gajeel's so much.

She turned a shade of red she never thought was possible. "I—I…No! That's ridiculous..!"

Lily smirked at her flustered outburst, "No?"

Levy avoided his gaze and put on the black slippers, "No, I — Nevermind. Let's go..!"

"Then, I assume Miss Levy is ready?" The elder asked politely.

"Yes." She nodded, still flustered.

Being the gentleman he was, the elder opened the door for her and let her out first. She exited, slightly hopping. The contact between the floor and her rubber slippers caught Lily's attention. A smirk formed immediately.

"I fancy your studded slippers today, Miss Levy."

She stopped mid-track and looked back with furrowed brows and tears of embarrassment almost forming around her eyes.

"LILY..!"

: : : : Tenrou Beach, Mountaintop, 1:00p.m. : : : :

The chilly wind moaned through the trees. Despite the date indicated on the calendar, Tenrou Beach was always magically warm. It was one of the best features of Tenrou, but for Gajeel, the warmth only helped leave him boiling with frustration.

SMASH!

Gajeel huffed as he finally crushed down the old boulder. The rubbles rolled away, leading his eyes to a certain pair feet.

"Despite your hard looks, you are one goddamn puss."

Gajeel snorted, knowing damn well what the elder was referring to, and kicking a rubble towards his manager, who easily caught the rock.

"Like I'd listen to the likes of you, Lil."

The elder took another step forward, snorting, "But you always did."

Gajeel rolled his eyes and slipped off his gloves, shoving them in his back pocket. He stretched his fingers and punched the air. After he had joined Fairy Tail, his visits to the gym diminished. And that only resulted in rust. He breathed evenly as he punched his pretend opponent before smashing another large boulder.

He flinched as the top flesh of his knuckles instantly split open.

"Miss Erza is looking for you." Lily stated, his voice holding a hint of authority over the model. Lily wanted to straightforwardly shake his head at the young man's foolishness. As the elder, it was easy to tell that Gajeel's emotions were getting in his way.

"You have a shooting in five." Lily repeated, emphasizing the time. But, just like a moment ago, Lily stood there ignored, watching the younger man venting his anger on poor rocks. If the elder had failed anything, it was teaching Gajeel civilized manners. And dealing with emotions. And being friendly. In fact, Lily was faced with many failures.

He sighed, to which Gajeel's ear's perked up. He turned around, his chest heaving from the breathless assaults on the boulder. Gajeel stood up, reading Lily's annoyed features, but played it out smooth.

He walked past the old man picked up his dirt-filled t-shirt. "Well, ya just gonna idle around? I ain't a waiter."

Lily rolled his eyes in restrained patience.

The two trodded down the hill, both tired out. Lily wasn't physically breathless, but mentally harassed by Gajeel's nonsense. But, who could he blame? It was his fault; he had spoiled the young man by letting him act on his wills. He had believed that Gajeel's past pain and sadness gave him the privilege to voice his troubles — to be angry at the world at the least. But, moments like these made Lily pray to the gods to forgive his deadly mistakes.

"What's on the list, mom?"

Lily turned his head to face the smirking man, and returned his very own. "Selling photos of your body for some brainwashed fangirls, Mister Kurogane."

Gajeel mocked hurt, "I don't like where yer goin' with that."

Lily chuckled and played along, "But, you are a hoe."

"No," his eyes darted back to the elder's own, "a puss."

When Lily returned a look of mild surprise, Gajeel gave his signature laugh and said, "Don't think I won't live down with it, Lil. That is by far the worst thing ya said to me."

"No." Lily smiled, "There's more coming, Kurogane."

Both men started chuckling at each other's comments. Then they said nothing, quietly enjoying one another's silence.

The beach came into view. And Gajeel took a deep breath. He was not up to seeing Levy right now. She was the very reason a poor boulder was smashed to bits. She was the reason his plans were always complexed. His work load was only piling, thanks to his days being passed drooling over the thoughts of Levy.

Images of their earlier interaction flashed through his mind once again, making Gajeel recoil internally. She had looked at her with disappointment swarming in her honey-brown orbs, the very orbs that had thrown off were so damn clear.

Would she see him in the dark light?

"Gajeel."

Did she fear him?

"MISTER KUROGANE!"

Gajeel's eyes gained focus on the blurred blond mess in front of him. For a second, the honey brown orbs almost had him sweat-dropping, but the figure in front of him was none other than Levy's half-sister.

"Earth to Gajeel!" she repeated, making sure she had his attention, her hands on her hips in an authoritative stance.

"Oh." He briefly let his eyes wander to her the shining accessory hiding in between her ample breasts. It confirmed his suspicions that the necklace he found that day belonged to —

SLAP

"Dammit, woman!" Gajeel barked now completely brought back from his thoughts, looking down at the fuming blonde. For a moment, he was too focused on examining the details, he didn't see the rolled magazine flying at his face.

"Dammit, woman?" She regurgitated his words, throwing the magazine on the floor, "Seriously? You pervert!"

Gajeel raised a brow, "A what?"

Instead of answering his rhetorical question, Lucy turned to Lily, who was face-palming, something he has been doing so unusually often. "Does he always practice his fame like this? Thinking he has the right to stare at people's tits like bacteria under the microscope?"

"Oi!"

"Shut up, pervert!"

"I'm not—"

"Seriously, what does Levy-chan see in you?"

"Oi! That's outta the question!"

Gajeel threw Lily a look, begging to support him. He knew that Lily knew what he was looking at. It was certainly not her "tits"! He was looking at the necklace — Lily fuckin' knew!

But Lily smiled, and that never meant any good.

"I have to say, Lady Lucy, I am terribly sorry." Lily faked shame, "But, you see, I have been trying to fix his habits."

"Huh." Lucy snorted, giving a dirty look at Gajeel, who was gritting his teeth at Lily.

"Say another word, Lil'—"

"But, Milady, it can't be helped."

Gajeel's face twisted, "Lily!"

Lily ignored the man's please and replied, "He just loves breasts."

Mortified, but with great pride in his way, Gajeel tch-ed away and walked to the scarlet manager, because even stubborn Gajeel knew it was most unwise to go without an apology with that redhead. By the way, it gave him an escape from the giggling pair. Since when had Lily befriended the blonde? Heck, he even had Levy by his side from the sounds of it.

He was supposed to be angry about that, right?

Gajeel groaned and paid no attention to the scorning redhead who was about to lose her temper from Gajeel's disregard. He sat down on the plastic chair and rested his elbows on his knees, balancing his frowned features on the palm of his hands. It took a long moment to realize that questions were being directed at him.

"And just what made you think you could disappear for a whole hour?" Erza lifted her shades to reveal her narrowed eyes. She stared at his cracked knuckles suggestively.

Gajeel paid no attention. He just gave his usual grunt and looked away, his vision meeting with blue. The blue sea and the blue beauty.

All the anger that crept up his neck dissipated into thin air.

She wore them. The jumper he had chosen contrasted her pale skin so perfectly. And — fuck — she looked so damn heavenly against the calming background; he felt like the man in the movies, watching his wife gently tucking her hair behind her ear whilst the wind blew. Except he wasn't the husband.

"Well, Gajeel, I hope to see some good results. Get your make up done quick." The woman's condemning was unheard.

The iron bracelets were a product of his own. And it was his trademark. Seeing such a symbol on her was exclusively satisfying. There was no denying, but he had purposely left his own bracelets on the pile because he was a man. A dragon. He was a possessive dragon that would do whatever it takes to mark whats his.

But the action was not done without restraint. It took him everything to stop piling more items to 'mark' her. He told himself not to put further attachment to the godly beauty. He had another job to take care of. For some odd reason, he knew that malicious events were going to ensue. He was never wrong with omens. And attachment was really not the best choice.

From the corner of his eyes, he saw the blonde approaching the blunette, who shone that bright smile of hers.

She was so fucking gorgeous.

It was definitely a losing game. There was no way in hell he could give up so easily. He vividly remembered himself slipping the bracelet off his wrists above the stack of clothes for a reason and he knew it. It was impulsive and irrepressible because it was the end to any other attachment. He would give her his bracelet and silently hold onto her own necklace she believes to have lost. And other men would walk away the moment they see the Kurogane's symbol on her.

But he will have to walk away.

That was the selfish irony.

"Gajeel!"

Dark thoughts evaporated in its wake as he looked up at the woman who held his heart.

Levy beckoned another time, trying to ignore Lucy's suggestive winking at her, "Gajeel! Hurry! Your shooting is soon!"

He returned a smile, which turned out as a smirk because Gajeel Redfox didn't know how to smile. But the look he presented was enough to stun both the girls because Gajeel Redfox never smirked at girls either.

"Look at that. Just look at that Levy-chan."

Despite the fact that she exactly knew what her best friend was referring to, Levy felt the urge to deny, because the last thing she wanted to do was admit the look.

"W-What?"

Lucy snorted, "The way he looks at you with the heart-darts, idiot!"

The anticipated blush crawled up her neck, "Shut up, Lucy!"

A brow rose, "No comeback?" followed by a grin, "Pretty submissive about my comments today Lev-chan. Finally admitting your undying love for Mr. Redfox?"

The way Lucy mocked the pose of Romeo from 'Romeo and Juliet' only topped the bluenette's embarrassment.

She opened her mouth to protest instantly, but settled with drinking her lemonade to literally cool her flushing embarrassment as she saw the said man approaching them.

The words sounded unconvincing, even to herself, "Lucy—all of you—just ridiculous."

"Uh-huh, as ridiculous as your heart for that man can be."

"Lu—"

"What do you see in that metal-head?" Lucy quirked a confused smile.

Levy darted her gaze at the smirking man, trying to ignore the question. A thought hit her and she copied his smirk and looked up at the blonde friend in a condescending manner, despite her smaller height.

"Adapting titles, aren't we Lu-chan?" Before Lucy could retort, Levy added another comment, "Should I expect to see your pink-haired son soon? I would love to be the godmother."

Lucy's mouth dried.

"Oh, shut up brain-face!"

Levy laughed, "Brain-face? Natsu's reaaally getting to you!"

Hot over the face, Lucy turned on her heels, pretending to be angry. When in fact, she planned to let the girl be alone with the model.

And to see Natsu.

Lucy could feel Levy grinning at her flushed reactions, and for some odd reason, Lucy gained the need to return the feeling, or moreso, the exasperation. She possibly couldn't have Levy always win? With wits, Levy always will, but not like this.

So she turned and grinned innocently, a technique she learned from the white-haired devil,

"Restrain from touching the man of your dreams Levy-chan! I'm not ready to be a godmother!"

"LU!"

Gajeel instantly snorted, "Didn't know ya had it in ya." He took a seat on the prepared chair, lifting his legs onto Levy's lap.

She turned her head from Lucy's teasing look and darted her eyes at the man in front of her.

"Had what in me?!" Her voice came out more angry than intended, but by the looks of Gajeel's smugness, she knew he didn't take it personally. What did he take personally? Everything she said, sometimes acrimoniously, always ended up as a joke on his end.

"Didn't think yer the type to fantasize over this," he snided as he raised his shirt to reveal his abs.

Her previous blush intensified, "I. Do. Not!"

Gajeel raised a brow, "Take it easy," He smirked, "or else I'm gonna think yer denyin'."

She narrowed her gaze, unaware of the model's legs resting on her lap, "I am denying, you idiot! Denying the truth!"

Even as she blurted her words, she couldn't help but look at the veins on his forearms. He was drowned in sweat — had he been exercising?

"Right. I'd believe you if you quit yer ogling."

Levy harrumphed, "Shut up. Just close the folds."

"Oh?—"

"And don't say another word, stupid." She beat him to his attempted teasing.

"Yes, ma'am." He chuckled as he pulled the blinds that hung down from their parasol. Outdoor makeup was difficult, and he doubted their conversation was muted.

While he focused on his own administrations — stripping his top — Levy pulled out the packet she made just for Gajeel. Her first time on trying to cover everything with concealers did little help and was inefficient. So, she had what she laid out in front of her: a whole palette.

"What's the theme today?"

He regarded her from the corner of his eyes. She had started right away, working her way up from his mid-section. He looked at how the jumper hung on her body so godly.

"Bein' naked on the beach, lookin' good with my sweat and swelling sexy veins," he finally said with the monotone that he always pulls off intactly.

"You're impossible." She briefly looked up with a quirked eyebrow, "What's the real theme?"

He chuckled, "Well, it's half true. I'll be topless." He flicked his gaze to catch her tinting cheeks before adding, "Don't worry Shrimp. I won't tease ya when you drool over me."

Her blush became evident, "Over your dead body, Redfox."

He made a humming sound, as if to show he appreciated her comeback. From his vantage point, he could clearly see her red face.

"What is that I see, Shrimp?"

As if self-conscious, she looked up touching her chin and was met with Gajeel's stupid smirk.

"Yer blushin' from the heat, right?"

She let a moment to let his comment sink and mumbled unintelligible words.

"Stupid. Arrogant. Stupid Gajeel." Nevertheless, she said it half-heartedly and continued working her administrations, reaching for the scars on his collarbones.

"Arrogant I am."

Wrapping up the job, Levy briefly regarded the man with a mischievous grin of her own. Two could play the game. "Oh? And what makes you think that you are the best, Sir Redfox?"

"I'm fuckin' hot."

"I beg to differ," Levy replied, her voice slightly unconvincing.

"I'm so hot," Gajeel could play this game in his sleep. He replied then, "I can get whatever I want with my limitless sexiness."

She finished concealing the collarbones, "I can't give you credit for unproven claims, Mr. Cocky."

She looked up at him in the eyes — possible due to him sitting down and her standing — and smirked like the man in front of her.

"So, help me , what did this 'sexiness' grant you? Fame? Joy? Money? That can't be true. Master Makarov was just kind enough to let a sly little boy off the streets—"

"McGarden's heart."

Her previously played sly smile died right on the spot, her mouth slightly gaping. The air choked. Both of them were silent and after a long suffocating moment, Gajeel flicked Levy's forehead, bringing her back to reality, in an attempt to play it cool. He was getting hot all over himself, but there was no way he was going to admit it because — damn, he didn't want to know why. His sporadic and unrestrained actions towards the bluenette confused the fuck out of his bones and every time these events unrolled, Gajeel felt like punching himself.

"Enough said, don't ya think, Shrimp?" He finally said, fearing she would ask things he couldn't answer.

Blushing madly, Levy did just that "W-What did you just say…?"

Damn. Damn it all.

He opened his mouth, but chose to say nothing. He had to leave now before he made a second move. Her face was too close, undoubtedly uncomfortable, and his mind denied innocent thoughts.

Gajeel avoided her dazed eyes and abruptly sat up, unwilling to look at her again because he was afraid of what actions could ensue. It wasn't causation, but intuition. And he knew that meant danger.

BEEP

The man immediately took the opportunity to take a look at his phone. It was the first time in his life to actually appreciate the cockblocking—

Master Makarov.

Within a second, Gajeel was ready to leave with all his belongings. He had to leave. And if excuses were acceptable, Gajeel would say that he needed to finish his job and head to the half-man.

While, Levy was seated in the same position she had been, with her mouth still agape.

Play it cool.

Supporting the tent open with one arm, he used the other arm to ruffle her soft blue hair, a method he seemed to use whenever he was lost. "The flies are gonna get in yer mouth, Shrimp."

And he was gone before she even had the time to turn to see his retreating form.

She blinked. She could only hear her heart pumping against her ears, legs wobbly. Gajeel was right.

He was really gone with her heart.

And that meant trouble.

: : : : Tenrou Beach, Hot Springs, 10:00 p.m.: : : :

The surrounding wall was a far cry from being helpful.

The echoes of their voices reverberated to the other end without effort.

"Lu-chan, keep it down! Somebody's going to hear us..!"

Lucy winced at the water being splashed at her face. "Okay okay, Levy-chan, stop!" Despite her annoyance, Lucy couldn't help but giggle. The blunette was so cute when her face went red.

"Gee, Lu-chan…" Levy stopped altogether, curling her knees up against her chest. She stared down at the steaming water, wishing she could just hide in there if that was what it took to avoid Lucy's suggestive gaze.

"But, Lev, there is nothing wrong with loving—…" Lucy glanced at Levy, who was giving her a hard look, a signal to use anything other than Gajeel's name. "…him."

A sigh. "Lu-chan, I know it's okay to lo— like him."

"Then, what's the fuss? Just marry him already!" The blonde raised her hands from the water, splashing against her friend's soft skin. But, she didn't show the same enthusiasm.

"Lucy," she said gravely then.

At the sudden seriousness coloring her tone, Lucy silently regarded her best friend with concern.

"Hm?"

Levy started, "Do you remember that day...the day I fought with Jet?"

"Yeah," Lucy whispered, "You briefly told me about it."

Levy tucked her chin between her knees, "Well, that wasn't the end of the story."

Lucy mimicked Levy's actions, coming to eye level. "Go on..?"

"It...It was about Gajeel." Levy said quickly.

"Gajeel?" She raised her head.

"Jet, he..." Levy fiddled with her fingers, confused about herself. She hadn't said anything the other day because she didn't want anyone to know about the rumors, but it was different now. She wasn't the Levy from a few weeks ago. She had to admit. No matter how much she reminded herself that her principles are primary with her profession at Fairy Tail, she was in love with the man. She was driven crazy by him, and she was lost.

She eyed Lucy again, gaining an encouraging smile instead.

That's right. Lucy's smile reminded her why she was here. She was here to talk about the truth. She had denied it before, even vented anger towards Jet, but the rumors were near true. There was no denying that. So, she had chosen Lucy, because she was the only person who was going to understand. That's right, Levy, Lucy will understand.

"Jet found some rumors about Gajeel. And before you say anything, like I had, I have to add that these rumors are...rather close to the truth."

"I'm listening," Lucy replied then, her attention solely on her best friend.

Levy took a deep breath.

"Gajeel's a murderer, Lucy."

A leaf fell into the waters, and the resulting gentle ripple smashed against Levy's chilly arms.

"So?"

Levy's heart was pumping against her chests at uncontrollable speed, but Lucy remained stoic. Had she said it wrong? Surely, Levy was expecting a slap or a wild yell of confusion, but 'so?'

"Lu-chan, this isn't a jo—"

"So what, Levy?" Lucy's eyes flashed with determination. It was a force too strong to move. For a moment, she could see Natsu's hard looks — a look that he rarely revealed.

Levy gathered her voice, "Lu-chan…?"

Her friend took a deep breath and smiled at the confused blunette. "Levy, what if I told you that I killed someone before? That…" She held Levy's jittering arm to keep her in place, "That I was a murderer."

"No…Lu-chan…" Levy croaked out, "You aren't!"

"But I am Levy-chan. I am." Lucy kept her smile in place, completely throwing her friend off. She was so calm, confessing she was also a killer, and Levy couldn't react.

She didn't know what to say.

"No." Levy said then, "You're Lucy Heartfilia, my half-sister!" Levy balled her fists and looked straight into the blonde's eyes.

"Exactly. I'm still Lucy."

Levy frowned, not understanding where Lucy was going with all of this.

"So that means Gajeel is just Gajeel. Gajeel Redfox."

In that moment, everything flooded upon Levy. A new revelation reached her mind and all the confusion that had built up inside her dissipated into the royal waters the two sisters were sitting in. It was also paradoxical. The truth was there all along, and Levy certainly knew her feelings would be remitted by the Gods, whoever was up there. She had even so far as to tell herself that she would never falter with her emotions— more or less, her love for Gajeel. So why hadn't she truly realized until now?

"Lu-chan…" Levy moved back, closer to Lucy. "You're right."

"Hm?" The soft smile remained.

"It doesn't change anything, at all." Levy restated, as if to reassure herself. She stared into the blurred reflection of herself, and saw serenity. Absolute serenity.

She thanked Lucy for all of that.

A koi swished past the two, momentarily pausing to look at Levy in the eyes. It stared for a second and moved back to hid in between the rocks.

"Soooo," Lucy nudged the woman beside her, "Just to be clear here; you're still head over heels for him right?"

There was a long pause. Then, Levy grinned.

"Why, yes" she replied, "Yes, I am."

Both girls burst into laughter, giggling as they splashed hot water at each other. They continued pursuing each other, mercilessly aiming at their faces.

The moon shone brightly, just above the two women. The night was made for them.

: : : : Tenrou Beach, Hot Springs, 9:30 p.m. : : : :

"You called me, old geezer?"

The said elder turned around, eyes closed shut. His firm stance on the cliff gave Gajeel a strong impression of fierce power, like the day he had met him, an incredible wisdom. And he was feeling it again. Master Makarov had something to say.

This was serious.

"You've come, my boy."

Gajeel grunted, a sign that he was all ears. This was no time for small banter.

Makarov coughed, "Sit down my boy. Beside me."

As he felt the youngster's warmth against his own arms, the elder started, "How was your day, Gajeel?"

"Erza insisted on beating me for delayin' the shooting." Gajeel looked at the half-man from the corner of his eyes, "So, a good day it was old man."

Makarov laughed mirthfully, "I always loved her sassiness! It's so charming!"

Instead of sticking along with his jokes, Gajeel snorted. "Get to the point, old man."

"Rude as always."

"Idling as always."

The mastered briefly grinned at Gajeel's banter, but that too fell immediately. His frown showed no sign of the previous kindness he had proven, and Gajeel wasn't ready.

For some reason, he didn't feel ready for what was to come.

"Jose is back."

Gajeel didn't flinch. Despite the surge of uncontrolled emotions, Gajeel showed no hesitation. None of it. He geared his eyes and fixed them on Makarov's own.

"14 years, and Jose is back."

After a long stare down of unknown communication, Gajeel shook his head and when he noticed that Makarov was going to open his mouth to speak, Gajeel said, "Heard ya the first time, old man."

Master still didn't grin, and his still actions disquieted Gajeel all the more. He rubbed his thumb against his callous knuckles. The master's actions were unreadable under the silent façade. The silence of the night didn't help ease the tension building up in his arms, something that he hadn't noticed until now.

"Do you remember everything?"

Gajeel put his hands into his yukata, habitually reaching for a cigarette. He had quit such a long time ago, yet, he couldn't help himself when he heard Jose's name. That man's name pounced into his brains, almost signaling him to take it out, ignite, inhale.

It was goddamn systematic.

"No shit, old man." He finally replied after giving up on the idea of running to the convenient store to grab some junk. "How the hell does someone forget that man."

After a dragged silence, Makarov spoke up."Then, I assume you heard of the 'psycho' who allegedly raped a teenager."

Gajeel turned his eyes away from the short man, indicating that he knew well about the subject.

"I get a feeling that he is one of Jose's pawns. Keep an eye on him. He's supposedly hiding out in the alleys of Lucky Street. The whole mob might be around for all I know." At the mention of the particular street, Gajeel's eyes visibly narrowed. At this, Makarov decided that nothing else was needed to be said.

"I assume there was no need for me to command you to keep your heads up." He stated, as he stood to take his leave.

"Aah."

The air chilled a bit at the absence of the old man, who was sauntering away to the way they had come from. The man was such a little figure, yet possessed such assuring warmth. Things were about to unfurl, and Gajeel wasn't so certain about his doubts.

Heck.

They're doubts.

"Don't overthink, my boy."

Gajeel turned his heads towards the sky, already overthinking. He wasn't sure if such an assurance was from their long bond, but he was certain that things should be okay.

"Lu~chan! Keep it down! Somebody's going to hear us…!"

Or so he hoped.

Levy's laughs filled chimed in his ears, ringing in his ears.

And for the first time, or maybe third, Gajeel wished he hadn't had such sensitive hearing because her laugh was just so beautiful. Her laugh was so so beautiful. It was cute and held its own musical rhythm that only he wanted to evoke. He wanted to possess her music so that no one other than him had the right to listen to it…

Jose.

He would have to stick with staying in the corners. He would have to go back to his black office and simply work, like he used to. He will stick with staying in the shadows no matter the cost. And sooner and later, she will find someone else and it was required that he be okay with it.

But he didn't know how to place the odd feeling. The thought of another man making her laugh was somewhat unforgivable. But what could he do?

He laughed breathlessly, almost hopelessly.

It was unbelievable. He was right in the middle: between running back and sweeping the woman off her feet, or continuing his life-long mission. It was a choice, but the weight of both of them was far too heavy.

How had he let such petty emotions fuck him up so much?

His vision blurred in a foreign way. It wasn't the kind that his alcohol erupted. More wet and most unwelcome. He hated this.

He loathed it. It only proved that he was allowing reality to sink in and host inside him in the painful way it always did. After swelling, it would have its way and pierce out of his body leaving nothing but brutal emptiness and an abysmal sorrow, without drawing a single drop of blood. It was a living hell that had no direction.

His body wracked in a futile attempt to push it down.

It's not a sin to fall in love.

It was nobody's fault. He had just opened his eyes and saw her. There was nothing more to say.

He finally closed his eyes and let the tears free fall, escaping his hold.

Jose was coming. He would take him down in silence. He would let nobody touch a hair on her. He will kill that cocksucker and every other fucker related to him.

And he will come out alive it all.

Because he would have himself behind bars for all the wrongs he committed. No. That was too easy.

He will repay Makarov the way he had promised instead. Stick around and fulfill his role as the vogue of the company and allow Fairy Tail to prosper because that would mean that she will prosper as well.

Yes.

And he will watch, just fucking watch, her.

And in due time, she will fester his mind and kill him softly and slowly.

Gajeel pressed his palms against his wet eyes, smiling helplessly.

"It's a fitting end for a sinner."

Let the chaos unfurl...

To my followers/readers/fans out there: This is officially the rising action. Muhaha...