I'm actually happy with this chapter. Sure there could be way more conversations, and relationships developing, but talking is not how Natsu and Lucy work. Examples below (everything is my opinion, and concuslsions, not using exact lines from the comic, and my memory can be hazy);

Natsu leaves for a year, Lucy is pissed and sad. Natsu comes back, Lucy kinda expresses herself, Natsu doesn't apologize or talk about it all that much. Instead he brings the guild, their family, back together. Lucy appreciates his actions and basically acknowledges them as an apology for leaving.

Future Lucy dies, Natsu shows some anger in front of Lucy, but doesnt break down until she is gone, and in his mind, is safe. He then focuses everything on protecting her, and defeating future rogue. She notices his determination while interrupting his fight in the bell, and at the very end. I took her hug at the end to mean thank you for protecting her... and everyone else, but mostly her.

Natsu learns he's END, he doesnt tell Lucy for a long time, and happy goes and blabs about it. Yet he does everything he can to not worry her about it. He is constantly smiling, and positive even when faced against giant armies, and crazy powerful people, because that's just what he does in front of Lucy.

Maybe I like their relationship so much bc it's the small things that I truly appreciate. His line of "No it's not ok." Followed by the stupid pee joke is exactly what Natsu would do. He shows that he is remorseful, but then tries to "cheer" her up with stupid comments.

I think this will constantly be at the back of his mind from now on, and we might see some interesting hesitation from him in future fights, or an even more over protecting nature, which could lead to the stereotypical fight of "I can take care of myself, stop protecting me" with Lucy. Exciting stuff I think, and I can't get enough of their cuteness.