Song: Rachmaninov 2nd Piano Concerto
By: Sergi Rachmaninov (played by) HAUSER, Robert Ziegler, London Symphony Orchestra

(I'd recommend playing this piece when you reach the part Lucy and Erza are outside the church doors. ;3)

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~Lucy~

Nothing seemed to matter but this very moment. Natsu enveloped me into a tight hug swinging me around in his arms from the joy we both were feeling. We both let our emotions pour over each other without any restraint. There was no reason to hold back, no reason to second guess or hesitate about anything. I was engaged to Natsu. Natsu laughed into the crook of my neck when he pulled back from our embrace. Our eyes locked until we continued to laugh about the events that unfolded. Natsu clasped my left hand in his hand as he gently placed the ring onto my ring finger. "I love you."

"I love you too," I replied before pulling his lips to mine. The kiss was sensual and slow to the point I was lost in the passion of our long-held feelings between us. I've known since the day I met Natsu I would always and forever be with him. Even if it were as mutual friends I was more than okay to have that, but this was by far the best outcome. No matter how hard this could be in our long life together, we would always have each other. And now, we would have each other as man and wife. I don't think I could wait for a second longer to be married to this man. "Natsu," I breathed after breaking our kiss. Natsu placed kisses all over my face. "Yes?" He asked between kisses. I returned the affection by kissing his jawline. "I can't wait. I know you just proposed, so why should I keep you waiting any longer. Why not now? Let's get married now." Natsu looked at me with a surprised expression. "You wanna marry me now? But, I thought you'd want a big wedding. Don't you want all of our family to be there?"

"We can always celebrate with them about our marriage, and yes there was a point in my life that I wanted to wear a fancy white dress and be walked down by my father to you, but it doesn't matter to me now. I've waited long enough and I certainly know you have finished waiting too. Let our friends meet us as husband and wife. I want them to see me as Mrs. Dragneel the next time we return to Fairy Tail." Natsu showed his adorable childish grin. "Now? In the middle of the night where I can't even find a chapel open to exchange my vows to you. No, not right now." I was about to retort my fiancé when he put his finger up. "Tomorrow. We will get married tomorrow. Let me make a few arrangements so I can at least give you a small piece of your dream wedding."

"I don't know if I can wait that long." I moaned exasperatedly. Natsu chuckled at my irritated state as he pulled me in for another kiss. "Be my fiancée for one night, Luce. Because tomorrow...you will be my wife." His thumb caressed the softness of my cheeks. I felt my face flush with red I turned away. Since when has Natsu become so romantic verbally? "Okay. One night and not a day longer." I said closing my eyes to avoid seeing the victorious smirk I knew he was doing. My fiancé pulled my face back to him while I opened my eyes. "Meet me back here tomorrow at noon. I know everything will be ready by the time you make it here." I sighed with my lungs lighter than air. There was possibly no way I could ever be this happy. After all that's happened I wasn't sure if I could ever smile this brightly again. I nodded with my smile still lingering on my face. We shared one more kiss, this one small and timid until our lips departed one last time. I snaked my arm around Natsu's bicep when we began to walk to the hotel we were staying. It was a long, peaceful walk with neither of us deciding to initiate a conversation. Natsu was in deep thought, possibly going through a step-by-step plan of whatever he was thinking of doing tomorrow. I was serious when I told him I wanted to marry him this very second. With the wounds that stained my clothes and the remaining tears of blood that burned my eyes, I've never felt more ready till right now to call Natsu my husband.

Gods, Natsu, what are you planning now?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

~Natsu~

Lucy and I already made it back to the inn where we were residing. My fiancée...my fiancée said she was quickly going to wash then be ready for bed. I knew this would be the perfect time for me to go speak to my nakamas while Lucy was away. "Take your time Luce. Today has been utterly exhausting." Lucy laughed. "I worked myself up so much I'm exhausted. I thought you were going to leave." Lucy turned until I grasped her hand. I gently pulled her back to me and wrapped her into my chest. "I'd be a damn fool if I ever thought of leaving you."

Lucy sighed as her face fell to a sorrowful expression. "I wouldn't have called you a fool. After what happened...after what I did and all I've caused," Lucy swallowed her throat. Her breath wavered for a moment when she cleared her voice. "needless to say I thought you reached your breaking point with me. The idea that you were going to leave made me panic, but I wanted to be strong if you did." Lucy laughed, but behind her eyes, I could still see the fear of me suddenly deciding to just leave her. "I love you Lucy Heartfilia. After everything we've been through together, I'm not going to just up and leave. You're my comrade, my partner, and my soulmate. As much as you need me I need you the same."

Lucy closed her eyes whilst leaning a kiss into my palm. She lingered with her hand resting in my chest before she opened her irises. "I love you more, Natsu." Lucy pulled away from my hold when she went to the washroom. Now was the time I can go ask for help. Quietly, I left the bedroom and moved through the hallway till I reached Erza and Jellal's room. I knocked repeatedly until Erza opened the door with an irritated look. "Natsu! It's late what are you doing?"

"I proposed to Lucy and she said yes. We're getting married tomorrow." Erza stood in front of me with a blank expression. Behind her, Jellal was in sitting in their bed also showing the same reaction until Erza grabbed my wrist. She pulled me with incredible force into their room I yelled as she closed the door so loud I was sure the drywall around the wooden door cracked. "WHAT!" Erza yelled as Jellal smiled. "Congratulations Natsu! A wedding so soon though. What's the rush?"

"WAIT!" Erza interrupted with her finger up to her husband. "You proposed! Lucy said yes! And you guys are getting married TOMORROW!?" I nodded. "She decided there was no point in waiting. Lucy wanted the guild to see her as Mrs. Dragneel the next time they see her. But," I crossed my arms. "I want to try and give her a decent wedding. You know the whole bridesmaids, dress, and whatever else for the whole shindig. I've only been to one wedding and yours ended on a sour note due to me and Lucy. So...I came here to ask if you could help me?" Erza began to tear up. "Oh Natsu, of course, I will. I just, I can't believe you're getting married. For as long as I've known you I thought you'd be the one that would never get married." Erza was now crying up to this point. "I'm just so happy for you! And even happier that I can help you make your and Lucy's special day memorable!"

The scarlet-haired woman began talking up a storm of ideas. She knew exactly where to go find a wedding dress in Crocus as she also made plans for me to find a tux on the fly. Erza spoke to Jellal about finding a priest that can preside the ceremony at the church. Meanwhile, I left to go and rally everyone else that was in their sleeping quarters to come and meet at Erza's room. Everyone showed up, excluding Lucy, as Gajeel scratched his head due to his sleepiness. "Whad'ya want Salamander? I was cozying up to Shrimp till you decided to interrupt." Levy elbowed Gajeel's gut knocking the wind out of him. "Don't tell them that idiot!"

"Seriously Hothead why'd you get us all out of bed?" Gray asked before yawning out loud. Happy ribbed his eye with his small paw. "Is everything alright Nat-zu?" Erza slapped her hands together. "All of you be quiet! Natsu has an important announcement and you better listen!" Everyone's eyes were on me. I cleared my throat while showing a smile. "Lucy and I are engaged!" All of my comrades that didn't know lit up with joy. "You and Lucy-san are getting married!" Wendy gasped with twinkling eyes. "That's so wonderful! Congratulations Natsu!" Levy said beaming with joy. "Wahhh! Love Rival is getting married before Juvia?! When's the wedding!?"

"That's the best part! We're getting married tomorrow!" I exclaimed with my arms out.

Everyone's small celebration came to a halt. Out of nowhere, I had multiple people hovering over me. "TOMORROW!?" All the girls screamed at the same time. "Th-That's impossible! No one in the history of marriage has ever gotten married the next day after proposing!"

"Well count me and Lucy as the first people then cause that's what we're doing!" Levy's eye twitched. "Natsu, there's over close to a hundred steps and intricate details that have to be planned for a wedding. Do you and Lucy just plan on marrying at the alter without any of those steps?" I showed a nod. "I know this seems like we're trying to rush into this, but the truth is Lucy and I in a way are already married. Both of our souls are tied together in a literal sense. At this point we just want our vows to be heard by our closest friends and that's that. Lucy wanted to get married tonight and even then I had to convince her to wait until tomorrow. We don't need any of the finite details of a wedding, but I want to give her at least the basics of a wedding she's dreamt of. I want to be sure she has the dress, the flowers, and her bridesmaids so it will be memorable for her."

"Believe me it's already gonna be memorable. Natsu Dragneel is getting married after being engaged for less than twenty-four hours. Pretty Natsu-like if you ask me." I rolled my eyes. "Alright, let's get started on the plan for tomorrow." We all circled together and began the step by step of what would happen. Seeing that I had little to no jewels a lot of my comrades chipped in which I thanked for their generosity. "Think of it as a wedding gift from us! It's probably a good thing you want a small wedding or else we'd have to push this back further." Erza commented handing her stash of jewels that piled in the center of our circle. The scarlet maiden explained to the girls they will make sure to distract Lucy for as long as possible by shopping for a dress and preparing Lucy for her big day. Levy commented they should have a small celebration for the girls only as a way to have a bachelorette party for the bride-to-be. "Maybe we can take Lu-chan to go out and have breakfast together! I know she'd like to do that and she won't argue about it either." Erza's face gleamed. "Excellent idea! We can all chat and eat while having croissants and cinnamon rolls!" Erza seemed more excited about what she was eating than their get-together.

I glanced to the wall where a clock was noticing I'd been gone for nearly two hours. "Awe crap! I'm sure Lucy's done with her bath I gotta get back to the room." I sat up quickly running to the door when Gray called out to me. "Don't worry about it Hothead. We'll get everything covered for you and Lucy." I rolled my eyes at that stupid Ice Freak. "Thanks. Tomorrow, I will be coming back to the inn a married man." The mere thought was exhilarating. "Get some rest Natsu. You're gonna need it." Jellal warned with a small smirk. I closed the door as I returned to mine and Lucy's room. My soulmate was in bed already; her eyes were shut as she snored softly in her sleep. Her arm was extended out to my side as if she was waiting for me but fell asleep in the process. I smiled at the mere image of her lying there. No matter what anyone else said, Lucy would always be perfect in my eyes.

I crept under the bedsheets after taking my vest and sandals off. Just by the slight movement of me going to bed Lucy immediately rolled over and wrapped herself into me. I didn't have any objections, rather I pulled her even closer with my chin resting on top of her head. I placed a kiss on the crown of her head while caressing the skin on her back. "I love you so much," I murmured underneath my breath. "Tomorrow, I'll see you as my wife. I promise you'll never have a day in your life where you'll ever regret marrying me. Every day will be an adventure, because as long as I'm with you, I know I'll always be prepared for anything. For better or for worst Luce."

Tomorrow couldn't come sooner.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

~Lucy~

My eyes were still closed when I felt the warmth of sunlight beaming down through my window. Last night, after my bath, I knew Natsu must have gone to our nakamas and discussed the events that happened last night between us. So, instead of waiting, I decided the sooner I went to bed the faster I would wake up and finally marry my soulmate. However, when I reached over to find Natsu, he wasn't in bed. I opened my eyes to scan the room when I noticed a small bouquet of yellow and red roses in a small glass vase. Next to the bouquet was a letter with my name on the envelope.

I smiled like a schoolgirl as I got up to smell the roses. "How did he get roses?" I asked myself whilst picking up the envelope and noticed the writing was indeed Natsu's chicken scratch. He took his time, to give where credit is due, to make his handwriting somewhat readable. I opened the envelope and pulled the letter out to begin to read.

My beautiful Lucy,

I know right now your squinting your eyes trying to read my shitty writing skills. Don't worry you won't have to read it for long. By now you saw the flowers I left for you. Do me a favor and hang on to this bouquet and dont lose it for me. Today will be very crazy so prepare yourself my soon to be wife. By the time you get ready to go out Erza and Levy will be escorting you out of the inn and will also order you to travel wherever they take you. See you in a few hours Luce.

Love, Natsu

"Even with your poor grammatical errors I can't help but love your letter." I laughed hugging the letter to my chest. I placed it back on the table whilst grabbing a hairbrush to straighten my long hair and get dressed at the same time. The closest thing I had to white for my wedding day was a white long-sleeved sweater dress that barely passed my knees. Normally, I planned this outfit with black leggings but today was an exception. I threw it on adjusting the turtleneck and pulled the dress down a little further to avoid uninviting stares. Having no other choice I put on my best shoes which were black velvet short heeled boots. I finished my hair after adjusting my bangs and glanced at myself in the mirror.

Close enough.

After grabbing the bouquet from the vase I raced to the elevators and hit the G button to make my way down. Not even being awake for ten minutes and I could already feel the butterflies in my stomach jitter. I don't know if it was the elevator doing this or the fact I'm about to be married. Probably both. The doors opened moments later and I briskly walked outside to a rowdy street of pedestrians and local shops bustling as usual. The only two people that stood out were Erza and Levy as they were standing in the middle of the cobbled road. "Morning future Dragneel!" Levy greeted waving her hand over her head. Erza motioned me to come join them with a heartwarming smile. "Come on! Everyone else is waiting at the café for us!" I ran over to join them. "Everyone else? What are we doing at a café?"

"Well~ since you lovebirds decided to marry so last minute we're doing a last-minute bachelorette party for you! You can only be married once to a Souls Connection am I right?" I chuckled at Levy's answer. "I suppose." Before we started to walk Erza stopped us. "What're you wearing?" I glanced down at my choice of outfit. "My wedding gown?" My questionable tone caused Levy and Erza to laugh. "No. You've worn this before and look. . .well too simple."

"What's wrong with simple?" I retorted with a grin. Erza and Levy hooked their arms around mine. "Nothing's wrong with simple sweet Lucy, but if you want to pop out on your wedding day then don't wear what you would usually throw on any day of the week. Luckily, we're doing a very quick dress shopping before we head off to the salon and get you all dolled up."

"You guys we don't have to do any of this. I just want to marry Natsu dolled up or not. I can't wait for a second longer!" Erza looked at me with stern eyes. "Yes, you can because right now Natsu is cleaning himself up so he can look his very best for you. You will do the same thing and you will enjoy doing so!" I sighed disappointingly. "Looks like I have no say huh?" We continued moving which answered my question.

~~~

"Waaaaah it feels like just yesterday we were all fighting scary monsters and now here you are getting married!" Erza sobbed with a handkerchief up to her nose. Wendy giggled with her fork of waffles in her mouth. "That's because it did happen Erza-chan!" The six of us occupied a table at a small business café. We all ate and drank mimosas, excluding Erza, and chatted about my life. It was strange about hearing all my accomplishments, that and how I was able to settle down with Natsu of all people. "You know Natsu is a lot brighter than we give him credit for. Think about everything he's done in a matter of a year!" I commented finishing my second mimosa. Levy was hiccuping after her fourth one. "Yeaaaah~. He did a good job tying the knot with you Lu-chan! Any man would be lucky to call you his wife!"

Juvia ate her breakfast quietly muttering repeatedly how I was marrying before her. It seemed like once again I somehow angered the Water Mage to some extent. Carla congratulated me again. "Now that you and Natsu are going to be married, what are your plans? Are you going to move out of the small apartment and start settling down?" Carla asked eating some of her tiny omelette. "Oh, I'm not so sure about that. Natsu and I are immortal so settling down may never happen with us. Plus the idea of bringing a child into this world is something we haven't even really discussed yet!"

"But are you planning to have kids Lucy?"Asked Erza. I stopped playing with my French toast by the sudden question. Everyone looked at me waiting for an answer. Bullets of sweat appeared out of nowhere when I cleared my throat. I didn't want to talk about children. Not to my friends or even Natsu. "I gotta say I hope we don't find a wedding dress with an open back to it! Even in front of you guys I don't want my poor scars to be seen!"

"Lucy, you'll look beautiful no matter what.  Besides, I know you're ready to go and get ready. Shall we ladies?" I grabbed my bouquet from the table about to reach for my hidden jewel in my sweater pocket till Levy swat my hand away. "No Lucy we're paying! The least we can do is pay for breakfast!" Everyone chipped in and paid for our hearty breakfast as I thanked them. "You guys, this is so sweet. You didn't have to do this for me."

"We wanted to Lucy-san! This is a big day for any woman. Let's make it the best day ever!" Wendy smiled brightly. We all left afterward walking together in a line as we laughed and talked more. The Autumn breeze was welcoming as I realized my nerves were acting up. I wondered what Natsu was doing and how he was holding up. Through my Souls Connection, I can tell he was attempting to hide his excitement and nervous self, but I didn't wish to intrude and speak through our Connection either. We were going to see each other soon, which meant I had to restrain myself and wait a little while longer. My eyes went to Erza wondering if she felt this way. I wasn't pregnant like she was on her wedding day; she was nervous for a whole other reason than getting married to Jellal. Hell, Natsu and I haven't even. . .Oh, Gods does he even know how babies are made!?

Mutt you are a perv.

"AH! NO I'M NOT!!!" I screamed in reaction. My nakamas looked at me in shock until Levy smirked. "The Balance talking to you?" She asked when I sighed. "Yes. I'm just starting to overthink things. I don't even know what happens after we're married. What do married couples do after exchanging vows? Do we continue as normal whilst wearing rings? Or, are things supposed to be different? I know married couples settle and start families, but things are different when it comes to me and Natsu. What happens if a thousand years from now he doesn't wish to be married to me anymore? How could we divorce if we haven't even married in that century?!"

"Lucy, you need to calm your nerves. You're starting to panic over things that haven't even happened nor will they ever happen. I can see you're getting cold feet." Erza commented when she wrapped her arms around me in a consoling way. "Natsu will always love you! You should have seen how he was talking about the ideas last night he was telling us. Besides, from what I gathered Natsu even explained to us in some way that we can't see you two are already married by your souls being intertwined. This wedding is just cordial so that everyone can hear your vows. Don't think of it as a stressful wedding day, instead, think of us as renewing your vows."

"It does help somewhat," I admitted when we reached the salon. "There's still a part of me that worries Natsu is making a mistake doing this. My big plan was to break the Souls Connection, and now here I am about to finalize his immortal demise by marrying the crazy man." Erza and the girls smiled, and before I knew it they pulled me into a group hug. "He's a crazy man that's crazy in love. Not a lot of girls have that luxury of finding their soulmate on the first try. He's never going to leave you Lucy; so never stress the idea he'll one day walk away from you. Because I can assure you, that day will never come." A small anxious smile showed on my face. "I hope so, because, I want to be with him for as long as eternity lasts." My comment caused all the girls to awe. Erza's eyes built up tears until she waved them away with both hands. "Come on, we're going to make you look so beautiful Natsu will have no idea what to do with himself!"

~~~

After rushing inside and causing a storm that I was getting married within a couple of hours the salon was shut down so I can have the entire crew of hair and makeup stylists perfect my looks. Wendy and Levy volunteered to go find me a dress that way we could save time. They could tell I was more than ready to walk down the aisle and marry my soulmate now than ever. I told them with a smile that I had full faith in what dress they would pick out for me. "Just nothing with an open back please?" That was all I asked about the dress as they went off to find me one.

A stylist by the name of Cherené commented on how beautiful my long hair was. "There's absolutely, positively no way we should hide your hair with a traditional wedding bun. We gotta go with a boho braid to keep the volume of your hair." Cherené snapped her fingers and ordered her two assistants to get started on my nails. "Go with traditional manicure ladies I want her nails squeaky clean when they're done!" Cherené commented with the third and fourth assistants returning with a cart full of makeup. "That's an awful lot of makeup," I commented with a strained smile. Cherené laughed a little too loud in my ear. "Don't worry sweetheart we won't make you a clown. They just had to grab all the colors and compare them to your complexion which would be best. I promise you will be a goddess by the time you walk out these doors."

Funny enough I already am a goddess.

Erza, Juvia, and Carla were speaking amongst themselves as they waited for Levy and Wendy to return. "It's almost been thirty minutes where could they be?" Carla questioned with worry. "Don't trouble yourself Carla they're most likely on their way back now. They have an important job in finding the bride her wedding gown. It's hard enough for the bride to find her dress, much less Lucy is relying on two of her friends to find the perfect dress. Give them time they'll be here soon." Replied the scarlet maiden. Perhaps I did put a lot of trust in Levy and Wendy to find my wedding gown. Nevertheless, I was willing to walk down the aisle to a sweater dress I'd worn multiple times before. The standards are low, to begin with, but as long as it made my nakamas happy that I was wearing a proper wedding dress then so be it. "Such a shame you're not doing your wedding during summer. With your color combinations, you'd look gorgeous with summer tones." One of the assistants commented. The other girl slapped her shoulder whilst shushing her. "Oh shut it you're just jealous you can't pull off any tones. Get back to work."

"Ladies, if it'll help, I just want something simple. There's no need for going all out for a wedding that's happening on the fly." All the stylists stopped working and looked at me in confusion until they all burst out laughing. "She's funny! I like her!" Another assistant exclaimed when they agreed on my eye shadow. I just sighed. I know they want my day to feel special, but the longer I wait the harder I think about what I'm doing is even right. If I get married now then I can suffer about it afterward, but right now there's still time for me to back out. If I wanted to I could just leave and not consider going to meet Natsu. My sheer nerves are what's stopping me from being a coward at the moment. My thoughts were interrupted when I heard one of my comrades scream in excitement. "They're back! And they're holding the dress bag what did they pick!" Erza ran to the door and pulled the two girls into the salon. "Hurry up let's see it!" Erza said as if she was the one that was going to wear the dress. Perhaps she was ready for another one of the Fairy Tail girls to be married to. I'm sure she wanted to have a connection that married women had. Similarities that she and I could share about that fact we were married. That's what I thought anyway.

Levy held onto the dress tightly so the bag couldn't be snatched by anyone. "I think Lucy should see it first! Before anyone else decides if it looks nice or not the bride should be the first one to know how she feels about it." Levy came forward which signaled the ladies that were over me to step away. "Lu-chan, would you like to see it?" I looked at the ivory bag wondering how far did she and Wendy go to find me the perfect one. I can't help but think they went through possibly every dress at the fastest pace possible to find the one for me. Cherené pointed to the back smiling her pearly white teeth. "There's a lounge room for you to change hon. Take all the time you need just don't mess with your braid it isn't finished!" Levy grabbed my hand as she and Wendy were the only ones to guide me to the salon's lounge room when they closed the door. "Come on Lucy let's see how it looks on you!" I didn't take any notice of the dress when they gently unzipped the bag and pulled it out with care. I took off my sweater dress with my back facing the wall until Wendy told me to close my eyes. "How can I see it if my eyes are closed?" I asked which in turn made the two girls giggle. "You want to see it on you don't ya Lucy? Now don't worry we'll help you."

"Just be careful of seeing my back. I don't feel comfortable with people seeing it."

"We'll be careful Lucy. Promise!" Wendy took both my hands and Levy instructed me to pull one foot up at a time to stand into the pile of what felt like soft silk. The cloth felt to glide over my skin when the skirt rested on top of my hips. Wendy then helped my arms to go into the sleeves that felt of lace that embodied the thin cloth of the sleeves. Levy then buttoned up the back whilst Wendy adjusted what felt of a V-neck cut in the front. "Are you ready Lucy?" Wendy asked. Nerves were outweighing the excitement of what I could look like. "I'm ready."

"Then open your eyes." My eyelids fluttered open to adjust to the room's light. I was standing in front of the wall where it was a big mirror which meant I could see myself as clear as day. The dress was gorgeous for someone like me to be wearing. I gasped, moving my hands over the skirt that moved as if it were waves from the ocean. The dress was a pearl white with not only my sleeves having lace, but the waist was also floral lace as the V-neck showed a formal amount of my cleavage. I twisted myself back and forth to watch in awe of the dance swaying.

"The back is open..." I whispered. Levy nodded. "I know, Wendy told me not to, but I was insistent on this dress."

"I told you no open back dress. I can't let Natsu see this. I can't let anyone see this." The reality of what was going to happen hit me like a bucket of cold water. I didn't understand what on EarthLand I was doing until just now. My state of mind last night was too muddled by my human emotions after I believed Natsu was leaving. I got too caught up in the moment and agreed to something I shouldn't have. Everything that was happening was one big mistake. "Please get out. I need a moment to myself." I said hoping my voice didn't show I was close to crying. Wendy and Levy looked at each other with sorrowful glances. "Lucy, I'm sorry. It's just when I saw this dress I knew it was the one-"

"Please...go." I pointed at the door. My nakamas didn't say another word when they heard my voice crack. Without a second beat, Levy and Wendy had left closing the door behind them. I had this room to myself; I had room to think without the chaos of a wedding keeping me distracted. "What am I going to do?" I put my hands over my face to avoid any blood from somehow landing on the white dress.

You want to marry him, don't you?

"Of course I do, but this isn't right. None of this is right. Is that why I'm so unhappy? Is it because I know this is a mistake?"

Nothing is a mistake until you make it one. From what We recall you were joyous about the marriage between you and your soulmate. Why should something that could have the possibility of hurting you in the future hurt you right now? Natsu made his decision mutt. He chose you and based on the events of last night you made a final decision too without realizing it. You love him, and even now you want to be with him. I think this is the human term "cold feet" from what your comrade said earlier. You begin to overthink, and that causes humans to become scared and on a higher scale makes those humans run away. What's so scary about the union between two humans that know they love each other?

"What's scary is what will happen if one of us loses that love we share. I'm not supposed to be with Natsu. I stole him from another woman that may be waiting for her happy ending. I told Natsu this and he still wants to be with me."

Because in his eyes you're his happy ending.

"Am I? So far I've nearly killed him three times in the span of a year. How could anyone like him be with me?"

How could anyone deserve you? That's the real question here.

I snorted. "Come on you're just being silly now."

It's true. What mortal deserves to stand equally next to a God greater than the first three before her? Your emotions as well as his are so alike. You both fear the same thing, and you both love each other the same.

"So you think what I'm doing isn't a mistake?" I asked playing with my skirt. It was quiet for a moment.

Of course, it isn't. We'll have to learn how to share you, but We've been learning.

I felt better about my choice. The Balance told me how they felt, and they were on board with marriage. They wanted me to be happy despite the fact they continue to call me mutt. It wasn't a hard decision on what I wanted; the idea of marrying Natsu loomed over me for years. I never thought we'd be getting married than living for an eternity together, but then again I can't say I will complain about being with him forever either. The door to the lounge knocked when Erza peeked her head in. "Lucy, are you alright?"

"I'm okay. I had a lot to think about while I was alone." I shuffled up and did a small twirl to the scarlet maiden. "What do you think? Does my back look bad in it?" Erza cupped her hands over her face. "Oh Lucy, you look stunning. I can't believe how gorgeous you look!" Erza helped my confidence when she gawked more at the dress. I let out a chuckle when I exhaled shakily. "Okay, let's go get ready."

~~~

It only took one more hour until I was ready to head to the church that was in the center of town where the fountain was. My makeup was simple and elegant just so my eyes would pop out more as were my nails and toenails. I was wearing ivory heels that Erza gave to me when she told me to wear them. "I couldn't wear these heels on my wedding day. I would've rolled my ankles before taking a step down the aisle!" She commented as well as smiling with a sisterly love I felt coming from her. She, as well as all the other girls, was happy for me. And after my talk with the Balance, I also was happy about the occasion.

The girls ran ahead to go inside when Erza stopped and adjusted my bangs to steer clear from my face. I had a small veil covering my face when Erza wrapped me in a hug. "Are you ready?" She asked when I nodded with a hint of uneasiness. "Is it normal to be nervous?" I asked her. Erza laughed in return for my question. "Of course it is. You're about to be a married woman and spend an eternity with a wonderful man. Plus, the walk down the aisle can be a little extreme for any bride." My eyes glowered down. "I wish my parents could be here. My mother would be so happy about me getting married, and like them, I'm doing a wedding so fast I didn't have enough time to invite anyone. They got married a month after they met they were so in love; I know they would've been together a lot longer if they didn't pass away." Erza placed her hand on my cheek. "It would have been an honor to meet your parents."

"Thanks, Erza." I wiped my nose to avoid sniffling. The music inside began to play when I grabbed onto the bouquet tighter in my fist. Erza went to the door and was about to open it. "Wait!" I yelled which startled her. "Yes, Lucy?"

"Erza, will...will you walk me down the aisle?" Erza cupped her mouth again tears brimming to life. "Really? You'll let me walk with you?"

"Of course Erza. You've been with me every step of the way till now. Why not finish it together?" Erza extended her arm out for me to wrap my arm around hers. I thanked her knowing I wouldn't go alone when we go inside. Erza smiled placing her hand on the door before pushing them open. Somehow the wind pushed the doors and allowed them to open on their own when my dress and veil danced around me from the wind that surrounded us. The inside was jaw-dropping with yellow and red rose petals scattered throughout the ground. White ivory drapes were decorating the pews from the back to the front. My comrades sat in the very front rows as they stood waiting for me to start my march. And there...there stood the man I had been waiting for.

Natsu, in a pristine black suit, stood at the alter marveling at me from afar. His hair was straightened and combed back as a yellow rose pinned over his heart. He cleaned himself to where I could hardly find the familiar scent I craved which meant he took multiple showers. Tears pooled out of his eyes he kept pinching his eyes and nose to keep his composure. I was already at that point I was about to cry too. He was beyond handsome; Natsu was perfect. Erza began the walk which helped me follow suit as we both made our way down the aisle of scattered rose petals. A beautiful melody of a violin played that echoed throughout the halls of the large church. It felt like I was close to just running to my soon-to-be husband and kissing him there. Everything that was here, everything that I wore, and everything I was feeling were because of him. It was because of my family; it was all because of Fairy Tail. My life would have never been the same if it wasn't for these wonderful people I call nakamas. My future was now in front of me, waiting with tears and a smile on his face.

We made it to the alter as Erza handed me off. "We love you both so much," Erza said whilst bowing her head until she joined her husband who saved her seat. The priest welcomed us and thank the Gods for bringing us together. The Gods I knew didn't do shit when it came to me and Natsu finding each other. We both went through hell and back to find each other, and we traveled to hell again just so we could be together. The Gods didn't have anything to do with it. "Natsu, would you like to say something to Lucy Heartfilia?" The priest asked when Natsu swallowed his throat. "I love you, Lucy. You look so pretty. Everything we've been through and endured has made it worth it to be in front of you at this very moment. Every good and bad moment from here on out, I want to do it all being next to you. I want to see your happy days and sad days. I love you more than life Luce." Natsu clasped my left hand and took off the engagement ring I only wore for one day. In his hand was a simple silver band that appeared to be brand new. Could he have somehow gotten these rings made in just a few hours too? "For best and worst, for the life we'll share in our eternity, I will love you through it all." Natsu slipped the band onto my finger and squeezed my hand tightly.

I didn't want to cry, but I was so damn close to losing my composure and bawling like a baby. "Lucy, are there any words you would like to share with Natsu Dragneel?" I opened my mouth, but the words didn't come out. In all my years of being a writer, of creating short stories without as much as an idea, somehow I couldn't think of anything to say. I looked down to the bouquet in my only hand that wasn't holding Natsu still searching for anything I can say. Why couldn't I find the words? Gods, who know how many times I've dreamt of this moment, and now that it's happening I don't know what to say! "Luce," Natsu whispered. He was smiling whilst still fighting away tears. "It's okay, you don't have to say a word." My mouth was still gaped open. I had to say something! Natsu nodded his head to the priest to continue. "Very well, do you Natsu-"

"Wait..." I whispered. I wasn't sure at first if anyone heard me until the priest stopped to look at me. Natsu returned his attention to me, waiting as I found my composure. "I'll never understand it." My eyes searched longing at Natsu. He became confused about what I said, but I continued to talk. "After everything I've put you through, after all the hardships, the pain, and suffering you had to go through, there was always a part of me that was too scared to marry you." Natsu was about to speak. "But I know why now," I interrupted so he can listen. "Someday, you will realize the decision you've chosen. When all of our friends are gone...when the nakamas we have now dwindle until it's just us and their children and their children's children. I've always been afraid that one day you will regret everything you fought for. There has never been a day that I haven't loved you. From back to when we first met till the end of eternity I will always love you Natsu Dragneel." I gave my bouquet to the closest person and held Natsu's other hand. "This will be the last time I ask because I want you to know you have a choice no matter what happens...do you want to marry me?"

Natsu's eyes shed his tears he fought back. For a moment Natsu seemed at a loss, critically thinking about the outcome of what he was deciding. Then, he started to chuckle. He rubbed his eye and let out a laugh. "I wanted you the moment I saw you Lucy Heartfilia. Nothing will change that now." Behind my veil, I gasped. My heart was leaping in my chest by the amount of happiness and love I couldn't contain. "From now on and forever, we will be together." Natsu smiled. "I love you." I cried avoiding the tears that wanted to erupt. "I love you, Lucy."

"Natsu, do you take Lucy Heartfilia to be your lawfully wedded wife?" The priest asked also smiling at the scene. Natsu nodded. "I do." The priest looked to me now. "Lucy, do you take Natsu Dragneel to be your lawfully wedded husband?" Nothing at this moment meant more than the man before me. I've been wrong this entire time. Immortality didn't have to be a lonely road. Someone I loved, someone that I'm marrying is ready to share that road with me. He was ready to walk down a scary path with his childish grin on his face. He was ready.

Now, I'm ready too.

"I do."

"By the power of the Gods, I pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride." Natsu's hands were shaking as he helped me flip over my veil. We both took a moment to look at each other with my veil out of the way. He was drop-dead gorgeous. His onyx eyes rested on my lips with his strong jawline falling to touch my face. His hands caressed up my waist whilst pulling me forward to meet him. I could somehow hear his lips begging to taste mine. And our lips did. I wrapped my arms over his neck beckoning him closer. The sound of our comrades cheering drowned away until it was just us. His hands explored as if it was the first time over my ribs. My fingers gently held onto Natsu's hair. The kiss grew deeper, hungrier.

And then it was over before we both could realize. I don't know who pulled away first, but we both were breathing heavily. Natsu smiled, kissing my cheek when he held my hand. 'I love you, Mrs. Dragneel' Natsu said through our Connection. 'I love you too.'

I said I love you for the first time to my husband. There was nothing I could be afraid of with Natsu, my husband, standing at my side.

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AAAAHHH I HAD A LONG HIATUS! Lots of real-life stuff going on but I'm getting back on track. I hope this chapter can make up for my absence. And I have to thank Nalu4234 for encouraging me to keep up with my writing; so thank you Love your comments helped me push myself to write.❤️

I can't promise to be consistent in updating like I used to, but I can promise I won't stop writing till I finish this series!

As always, love you all!❤️