Your Story

TITLE: Silver Linings & Shared Smiles

The Grand Magic Games were…intense. But even amidst the roaring crowds and magical clashes, my eyes kept drifting to her. Erza Scarlet. Standing tall and regal, even in a simple black dress, she commanded attention without even trying. I, Gray Fullbuster, ice-make mage and resident klutz, mostly just commanded annoyed sighs from Natsu.

I’d always admired Erza. Her strength, her unwavering loyalty, the way she could switch from a fierce warrior to a surprisingly gentle friend. But admiration felt…distant. Like looking at a star.

Today, though, something felt different. After a particularly grueling match, I found her sitting alone on the stadium steps, a small, almost wistful smile on her face. Hesitantly, I approached.

“Rough day?” I asked, awkwardly rubbing the back of my neck.

She looked up, those bright blue eyes meeting mine. “It has its moments,” she admitted, her smile widening slightly. “But seeing everyone fight so hard…it’s inspiring.”

We fell into a comfortable silence, watching the crowd. Then, she turned to me, a playful glint in her eye. “You seemed particularly focused during my match, Gray. Almost as if you were…analyzing my technique?”

My face flushed. “Uh, well, I…I was just admiring your swordsmanship,” I stammered.

Erza chuckled, a melodic sound that sent a shiver down my spine. “Admiring, huh?” She paused, then added softly, “It’s nice to be noticed.”

A small, hopeful spark ignited within me. Maybe, just maybe, the star wasn’t so far away after all. Maybe, with a little courage, I could reach for it. And maybe, just maybe, she wouldn’t mind if I did.