there was no helping it──bursting into laughter as a certain thought came to mind, the fire dragon continued his laughing fit until his abs hurt too much to continue. although he was sure erik heard the entire thing, natsu continued regardless, teasingly, while wiping a stray tear from the corner of his eye. " heh. i was just thinkin', remember that joke i told ya when we first met? that was fuckin' hilarious─how did y'not fall in love with me right then 'n' there? "
it was quite possibly the least unpleasant memory he could’ve gathered from that day. hearing it rise within natsu’s mind was unexpected. if there was one thing he was certain of at their first meeting, it’s that he and natsu shared the same shameful, childish sense of humor. it was a pity that he was simultaneously determined to bury him.
he was taken slightly aback by that bout of laughter, exhibiting a puzzled expression in response. as certain words fell from his mouth so easily, a knot formed in his chest. although they shouldn’t have made his muscles tense as they did, he couldn't help but feel skittish by hearing the words ‘ fall in love ’. hardening that momentarily weakened exterior, he scoffed before letting out a dry laugh. baring teeth, a simper immediately spread across his features.
❛ i think i was a little too focused on trying to kill you. ❜ his reply slipped out sounding unintentionally abrasive, despite that smile he gave with it. the wounds from that time between them were presumably healed, but that subject has yet to become truly easy for him to speak about casually. they both carried scars from that battle, embedded in their skin and in their minds––––most of his weren't even given to him by natsu. regardless of his mixed emotions, he didn’t regret anything––––he couldn’t regret the path he was set on if it meant he would be there with natsu in the end. by his side, he’s the happiest he’s ever been, even if love truly frightened him.
the smirk faded, as did the harshness of his tone. he continued with a soft mumble, his gaze lowering to where his hands hung. ❛ but . . . . . ❜ he paused before he leaned in. reaching to gently clutch natsu by the waist, he tugged him closer. arms had tightened around his torso until his chest was against his. basking in natsu's warmth and the sound of a small heart beat, his head fell against his shoulder. quiet and almost insecure with his revelation, he willed himself to continue, ❛ ––––maybe, i will end up falling . . . . . at this rate, it could be sooner than y’ think. ❜
