Chapter Text
Lucy’s POV
I let out a sigh and glanced up at the clock ticking on the wall: 5:34. Why does time move so slowly when you’re waiting for something you’re excited about? Work wouldn’t let out until 6, and then I could finally get ready for my date with Natsu.
A date with Natsu. Just thinking about it made my heart race. Sure, I’d only been on one date with him before, but it was exciting, and Air Hockey wasn’t exactly the kind of date I’d normally imagine.
This “B” date, though, it probably topped the first. It was simple, old-fashioned, and fun: bike riding. I’d been looking forward to it for days, counting the hours since I got the email from Mira.
I admit it. I’ve liked Natsu ever since I met him. Somewhere along the way, that crush grew into something deeper. And while these “test” dates were for work, they were only going to make those feelings stronger. Not that Natsu knew or that he felt the same way. A buzz from my phone pulled me from my thoughts.
Emma: Hey, girly 💜
Me: Hi, what’s up, E?
Emma: Oh, nothing major… just bored 😑
Me: Why don’t you bug Rogue?
Emma: Would, but he and Sting are having a guys day out
Me: 😂😂😂
Emma: Don’t laugh. By the way, it’s past six, you should be getting ready for your date with Natsu.
Me: 😳 Crap you’re right!
Emma: See you later! And make sure to give Natsu a kiss for me 😂😂😂
Me: Shut up.
Emma: 😂
I grabbed my bag and sprinted down the hallway toward the parking structure.
Time Skip
I pulled into the park’s parking area and glanced around. The lamps were on, casting a soft glow along the paths. The stars were visible tonight, twinkling brightly. I’ve always loved stargazing. I even planned to study astronomy in college before life took a different turn, but I still loved looking up at the night sky.
“Luce!” a loud, smooth voice called, breaking my thoughts. Down the path came Natsu, pushing two bikes, grinning widely. He was wearing a T-shirt with flames that read “I’m Too Hot to Handle”, black basketball shorts, and red-and-black tennis shoes with flame socks.
“Hey, Natsu,” I jogged over, taking the yellow bike from him and swinging my leg over the seat. “Let’s get started.”
“You forgot something, Luce,” he said with a teasing smile.
I frowned. “What?”
“Safety first.” He placed a bike helmet on my head, buckling it with gentle fingers brushing my cheeks. I fought back a blush.
“Yeah… safety first,” I murmured, trying to act normal. He climbed onto his red bike, helmet askew, his pink hair sticking out in all directions. I couldn’t help giggling.
“So… want to race?” he asked, smirking.
“You’re on. First one around the park and back here wins.” I declared, adjusting myself on the bike. “Ready… Set… Go!” We tore down the path, the park mostly empty, which was probably for the best.
Time Skip: Last Stretch of the 11th Race
We were tied, 5 wins each. My legs were sore, my butt ached, and I was panting from exertion. Natsu looked just as exhausted. We were neck-and-neck, the finish line only ten feet away. Summoning all my energy, I pushed forward and barely crossed first.
I stopped, panting. “I win… and I’m done.” I unbuckled my helmet.
“You win… and me too,” Natsu said, removing his helmet and pushing back his sweaty hair. It was chilly, but we were both sticky with sweat.
I started to wobble, my legs turning to jelly, but a pair of warm arms caught me, pulling me into his chest. Natsu, always my hero. “Thank you,” I murmured into his chest.
“No problem,” he said, helping me steady myself. “Want me to take you home? I don’t want you driving like this.”
“If you could, that would be great,” I said, leaning on his arm. I should’ve stopped after the fifth race.
“Luce, it would be my honor,” he said, flashing that Natsu smile that made my heart pound. This date was amazing. I couldn’t wait for the next one.
Emma’s POV
“Cute!!!” I squealed, jumping up and down.
“So cute!!!!” Mira shouted, jumping around beside me. “He offered to take her home!”
“Who knew he was such a gentleman?” I commented, waving my hands around.
“Assuming the date went well?” I turned to see Laxus and Rouge standing in the doorway.
“It went fabulously!” Mira yelled, hugging Laxus, who blushed slightly. She’s the only girl who can make him do that, it made me happy to see her so excited and my brother so happy.
“Hey, doll,” Rouge said, kissing my cheek and pulling me into a hug.
“Hi.” I smiled, but my phone buzzed, reminding me about the A to Z Dates article. I pulled out of Rouge’s arms and ran to my laptop, Mira jumping into her chair behind me. The guys laughed and sat beside us, Rouge resting his head on my lap and snoring slightly. I giggled and started typing.
Fiore Love: A to Z Dates: Date B
Want a cute, old-fashioned style of date? Bike riding is perfect! It’s great for anyone, whether you’re exploring, having races, or just enjoying the scenery together. You could even ride to a picnic or rent a tandem bike for extra fun.
Alternative Options: Bowling, Board Games & Baking
We hope you enjoy your dates, lovebirds! Keep an eye out for next week’s installment of A to Z Dates!
Love ❤️
Black Cat and Barista
A to Z NaLu Dates
Another super cute date! They were adorable the whole time, competing and laughing together. Natsu even offered to take Lucy home when her legs gave out from biking and caught her when she started to fall! Their hearts were practically beating out of their chests.
This ship has to become canon eventually, NaLu shippers haven’t given up!