Gajeel fighting to protect Jet and Droy is the perfect way to show how far he's come. Though, I especially enjoy the fact that it was the two of them who were overjoyed to hear that he considers them friends. He had to be the one to earn their grace after he attacked them but now they really consider him to be a cool guy that they want as their friend and they aren't even jealous that he got together with Levy.
Also, shoutout to Lily for being the only one who's noticed that Gajeel is actually a big ol' sap and for encouraging it. Not only that but he's showing off his guild spirit by wanting to hear more about this illusion of a girl that they just met and it's really heartwarming.













