A Colorful Life

by phoenixnext

NanoFate AU. Fate Testarossa is the best ad designer in Uminari City, but her cool & reclusive manner has earned her the nickname The Ice Angel from colleagues. What few know is her painful childhood has left her scarred both physically & emotionally. Can her new coworker melt her frosty exterior & how will they both deal with their meddling families? Ch 2 edited 2/1/17.

21. Chapter 21: The More Things Change

A/N: Hello everyone, sorry about the delay in uploading, been busy with work. You'll be happy to know while I was waiting for this to be beta'd I was working on the next chapter and its about 90% done so the next update shouldn't be too long in coming. Please review and let me know what you think. I love feedback and it will help me extend the story more.

Oh and HAPPY BIRTHDAY NANOHA, March 15th is just around the corner and this chapter includes her birthday celebration.

Thanks to Kuraa for beta'ing the chapter.

Disclaimer: I own nothing but the plot; I'm just playing in the MGLN sandbox.

~"~"~"~

Chapter 21: The More Things Change

Nanoha was laying on the couch reading but her mind was wandering. She was considering this week a mini-vacation while Yanagi dealt with the backlash in the office. She hoped come Monday she and Fate would be able to go back to work. If not it would be due to one of two reasons. The good but annoying reason would be because Yanagi had convinced the board she and Fate were being hormonal due to the pregnancy and needed to be on medical leave. In a year's time they would be allowed to return but expected to work their tails off to make up for the missing time. The other reason would be because they no longer had jobs.

Fate had explained carefully how well off they were and how there was no reason to be concerned. In fact Fate had contacted her financial advisor and had her go over all their holdings. Then she went over Nanoha's pittance of a savings and her mortgage on the house. Everything was optimized and there was now no debt hanging over their heads. The mind numbing amount of money put into the trust funds for all the children would pay for their schooling, even at an Ivy League school. The thing that had annoyed Nanoha the most though during this discussion was Fate's assumption that all her wealth was now equally Nanoha's.

Worse Alicia had to come and reaffirmed not only this idea but the legality of it. Nanoha was given joint custody of Einhart, just in case something happened to the sisters. Then full signature authorization on all their accounts. She was horrified at the idea of having full access to these women's bank accounts. She could sell anything, could buy anything she wanted, no questions asked. It was enough to make her dizzy the insane amount of trust both women had in her. Though it was strangely heartening when Alicia pointed out she already trusted Nanoha with something more precious to her than money or property, her baby sister.

No, financial worries apparently were a thing of the past. Her worry now was whether she would go stir-crazy before or after the babies were born. She wasn't the jet-setting type, besides too much travel could hurt the babies. She could take on commission work or just play around with her art. Or maybe go back to school; she wondered what Fate would think of that. She closed the book and set it on the table, she was getting antsy, she needed a focus.

Just then her perfectly oblivious wife came in with that perfectly happy smile of hers. How can she be so calm all the time? Nanoha felt a twitch beginning to develop at the corner of her eye. She was a woman use to having two or three projects going at once and balancing her home life. This situation was untenable; she wouldn't survive a week as a "kept woman." There was a reason why the Scryas had let her go back to school in the end.

Fate wasn't all that oblivious; she recognized her wife had more energy than a Jack Russell Terrier on crack. Her energy levels might be fluctuating due to the pregnancy but that mind of hers needed something to keep it busy or there would be hell to pay. Fate loved her wife but had no wish to be her personal sock puppet keeping her entertained all day long. That meant finding something for her to do that wasn't too strenuous but would keep her occupied for the majority of the day.

There was a list of options to work through, all with the assumption they weren't going back to their jobs on Monday. Nanoha needed a plan, an objective. She might like doing certain things on the fly but her life really needed a purpose or she'd start really freaking out. Fate could understand this on a certain level. If she lost the ability to paint she'd be in hell, a terrible limbo trying to find a new ability to focus her mind on. She wouldn't truly go mad as long as Nanoha was by her side, with Nanoha she knew she'd be able to find that new focus. She just hoped Nanoha would give her equal trust in this matter.

Settling next to her wife on the couch, she tried to think of the most diplomatic way of opening the conversation when Nanoha beat her to the punch.

"So have you heard back from Yanagi-san?" Nanoha's voice was tinged with worry and tension.

Shifting so she could look Nanoha in the eyes Fate said, "Mio amore, I am not very hopeful. It's already Thursday and they should have already made a decision. Yanagi says there is a divide amongst the members of the board. Most know there really isn't much of a decision to make. We're not in the wrong. Lord Hückebein has withdrawn Cypha's complaint against us. He has even had her publically apologize for her behavior. At this point those who want to get rid of me are grasping at straws for reasons to terminate. They'll continue searching while keeping us on "administrative leave pending an investigation into a complaint.""

Trying to sound reasonable and not flippant Fate went on, "At this point I think it'd be best to put in our resignations due to your pregnancy. It will look better for you when you begin looking for a new employer than being terminated on some trumped up charge. I know you don't like this option but resignation really seems to be the best thing to do at this time. When they are done squabbling with each other they'll come back begging for you to work for them again."

"But not you? You don't think they'd come begging for you back?" Nanoha asked quietly, unsure why this thought hurt so much.

Shaking her head Fate said, "No, I cause too much trouble. Honestly Yanagi had his hands full keeping me employed. Until you came I worked alone for the most part. I've caused four talented artists to quit over the years. I am too much of a liability."

"I don't believe that. Fate-chan you are the best artist I've ever worked with. They shouldn't be treating you this way," Nanoha said with a touch of anger in her voice.

Taking her hand Fate tried to sooth her, "Nanoha, just because you know how to handle me doesn't mean other do. Most people working with me find me "off putting." Well, that's the polite way of saying I freak the heck out of them. Think about it, that first week or two when we first started working together. Didn't you think I was weird?"

Nanoha scooted closer to Fate so she could snuggle into the hollow of her body. Pulling the blonde around her like a blanket she snuggled in before continuing the conversation, "No, I didn't think you were weird. I thought you were utterly fascinating. I might have wished for a better understanding of how your mind works but I still have that problem a year on. You really can drive me crazy with those leaps of imagination you have but I like it too. We can be stuck then suddenly you come up with something from left field and we're back on track again."

Kissing the back of Nanoha's head Fate said, "You are beyond special, you are a miracle. You are my personal angel. Five years I worked in that office and only a handful of people came to learn how to work with me. I made such a bad impression my first month in the office most hate me and still think I am a stuck up bitch."

Nanoha jerked up at the curse word, Fate didn't use profanity. Turning around she saw there was a deep regret in her burgundy eyes that people still thought so badly of her. In recent months people had stopped audibly sniping at her and even a few of the newer employees were developing crushes on her. A few of the older employees were attracted to Fate but their attraction had more to do with her wealth and prestige, they wanted her for what she could give them.

Curious Nanoha asked, "What happened? Back when you started with the company, why do so many people think so badly of you? If they took even a minute to get to know you they'd know you are the most compassionate and generous person on Earth."

Not really wanting to talk about this Fate searched for a distraction. Almost laughing to herself Fate's eyes took on a mischievous gleam and she asked, "Nanoha, I am not so much generous as easily manipulated by Takamachis. Your family has had me jumping through hoops since day one. You are probably the worst of the lot because you don't even realize you're doing it."

Annoyed by this obvious ploy to distract her Nanoha shifted to look Fate in the eyes and asked again, "Fate-chan, what happened? I want to work there still but I'm concerned over how they treat you. If the higher ups are really out to get you I want to know why."

Knowing Nanoha deserved the truth Fate sighed and shifted some more to make Nanoha more comfortable, it was a long story after all. Licking her suddenly dry lips Fate tried to begin, "You have to understand the whole situation started before I even began working for the company. I didn't know it but I created a feeding frenzy when I let it be known I wanted to work in the advertizing industry."

Nanoha rested her head on Fate's chest holding her tightly to reassure her nothing she said would change how she felt for her.

Stroking Nanoha's hair Fate continued, "I was already living with the dubious reputation Harlaown-sensei gifted me. It kept people from bothering me too much but also put a wall between me and others. Then there were the rumors still floating around thanks to Quattro which seemed to fill in some blanks left in Harlaown-sensei's story about me. My abrupt "break-up" with Chrono and his marriage to another soon after, left many wondering exactly what kind of person I was."

Frowning to herself as she tried to look back on the craziness of the time, "Dad had just passed away and had left most of his estate to me. Alicia received most of mother's estate but we decided to pool everything and let one manager handle everything. So we had a huge pool of resources at our fingertips. We didn't have to work and that's where things started to go downhill for us. No one took us seriously, what did two little rich kids want jobs for?

It was even worse for Alicia, she became a model in high school in an effort to distract people from me. Now she has always been a "science nerd" and wanted to teach. She's great at research but feels uncomfortable doing it because she's worried it will alienate me. I've never had a problem with her research as long as she doesn't come home smelling of chemicals. Anyway her modeling caused a lot of people to see her as just another dumb blonde. Not someone you'd want teaching your children."

"So here we are rich beyond belief, both with a decent amount of recognition in the arts but we wanted real jobs. We applied just like normal people for a number of positions. At first we got lots of callbacks but quickly realized they didn't want us as normal employees. We were to be walking billboards for the companies, spokeswomen if you will."

"These people actually thought I'd be jumping for joy to go to parties and chat up prospective clients for them. I wanted to be pushed creatively, not made into their organ grinder's monkey. It wasn't much better for Alicia; she would never be allowed to teach science because of her reputation. The only way she'd get to work for a school would be if she'd be a liaison to help her students enter the modeling industry. Lots of schools pointed out she'd be a real assets for the ones with performance programs."

Nanoha could hear the bitterness in Fate's voice when she spoke of Alicia's dreams being trampled. She was use to being disappointed but Alicia losing her chance at happiness because she had done something to protect her hurt. The entire idea was pure Alicia; it was inevitable that the plan would blow up in her face.

"So Alicia decided to give up on the teaching dream and concentrate on her modeling and managing our mother's medical patents. She would oversee our funding of research programs and live the life of a dissolute play girl. Her words. I swear I could have screamed at her for being so flippant but she was doing her best not to show her disappointment. Of course this just made matters worse for both of us with her behavior further muddying the water."

Nanoha remember the gossips on her first day talking about Alicia's womanizing and how Fate might be the same way. The whole thing had seemed so stupid; Fate didn't give off those vibes in the least. She'd dealt with womanizers before and even Alicia didn't seem that bad, a consummate flirt who took advantage of the situation. She didn't try to pressure women into sleeping with her.

"I had a lot of unsettling interviews and was ready to just wash my hands of the whole idea when I received a call from Nishihara, the senior VP of the company asking me to visit him for an informal interview. I wasn't all that impressed with the man and he was giving me the same song and dance about being an asset to the company. I thanked him for his time and left."

"A week later I was at the university speaking with one of the professors when a fellow student of mine busted out of a conference room red faced with anger. I was pretty shocked, then the mild mannered Yanagi came out of the room looking as calm and serene as a summer day. He bowed to us and my professor asked him what had happened. Yanagi told us about how he told my classmate if he wanted to work for the company then he'd have to start as an apprentice and work his way up. The guy was from a wealthy family and was reasonably talented so had thought with his contacts he should be able to skip over some steps. I asked Yanagi if this method was how all his employees were treated. He said yes, anyone on his team had to go through an apprenticeship then had to work with a senior designer before moving up the ranks."

"I was impressed with him; he wasn't flustered by my family's name or my so called reputation and looked over my portfolio with real interest. He pointed out where I still needed to improve and my strengths. I hadn't gotten that kind of mentoring in a long time. The professors were mostly intimidated by me and no one wanted to tell me if I was doing something wrong. I wanted to work for Yanagi and asked if he would consider me for his open position."

"He was surprised because he knew Nishihara had interviewed me and I declined his offer. He asked me why I wanted to work for him at a lower level with a significantly lower pay. I told him it wasn't about the money but the experience. I wanted to be pushed creatively; I wanted a real mentor again. As annoying as Harlaown-sensei could be he was a great mentor and I had few real masters I could look up to. Yanagi was surprised I would consider him a potential mentor but I pointed out he had been in this industry for longer than I had been alive so he obviously had more experience and I could learn from that alone. He might not be able to teach me techniques but he could help me sharpen my mind; focus my art so it gave a greater impact."

"He agreed to accept me on his team on a probationary basis; he needed to make sure this wasn't just a whim of mine. I showed up early and was happy to be working amongst other beginning ad designers. I wanted to learn but my reserve nature was more of a handicap than I realized. I would watch others working and seeing an interesting idea or making a leap from one thought to another I would create something of my own. I was accused of stealing ideas and of hampering other artists' work with my random tangents when working on projects."

"Yanagi came down and watched us for a week and saw what I was doing. I couldn't understand what it was I was doing that upset my colleagues. I hadn't even been there for a month when he pulled me in and asked if I would like to work one on one with one of his senior designers. I was surprised and asked if this was normal procedure. He said no but he thought I would do better this way. It wasn't much better. I drove the first man insane in a week. Poor Fujino was only two years away from retirement and I drove him up the wall with my "flights of fancy." To make matters worse my ideas were somehow exactly what the client wanted."

"Fujino told Yanagi to move me or he'd quit, he couldn't work with someone so unnerving. So I was moved to work with Naito another senior designer. We worked together for almost three weeks but that had more to do with his pride then our ability to work together. He didn't want to admit to being unnerved by a mere girl. After Naito was Seno, then Kawamoto, sigh…and then Nijima, they all hate me to this day for driving them insane with my unsettling behavior."

"All during this time I was producing work of professional standards and making clients happy. I just couldn't keep a partner so Yanagi did something unorthodox; he assigned himself as my partner. I had my own small cubical set up near his office where I would work on our project then meet with him to discuss what needed to be changed, exchange ideas and talk. It was the best and worst time for me. I still hadn't made a single friend in the office and the rumor mill was rift with disgusting things about me."

"I skipped out of apprenticeship where I had a reputation as a thief. I had gone through all the senior designers and upset each and every one of them. Then I was given my own "office" and was made Yanagi's lap dog. I got to work on the best projects and was quickly moving up the salary scale. It was also at this time Alicia decided to work her way through a number of women in the office when she came to work for us as a freelance model."

"After a year this way I was ready to quit but Yanagi convinced me to stay and my productivity convinced the few naysayers on the board to let me continue as I was as long as Yanagi continued to try to find me a partner. Some potential partners went on to work with others on different teams spreading more malicious rumors, others quit. I soon decided if people wanted to see me as an Ice Queen or Ice Angel it would be best to just go along with it. I just wanted them to leave me alone. I got the occasional piece of sexual harassment artwork sent to me. People would snipe at me but I found if I just ignored them they would eventually leave me alone."

"Nanoha, there are few people I can work with, Zest and Shario both have similar backgrounds in trauma and we found a common ground to work on from there. It's not something I take for granted; the people who take the time to get to know me and respect me are too few. I've never had a relationship like ours, even before we became romantically involved. Exchanging ideas, trusting each other, compromising and debating points, no one has ever done those things with me except Yanagi and he always came from a position of power. I could only push him so far before I was scared of being insubordinate. With you I am an equal, we can push each other as far as our professionalism allows."

Snuggling Fate Nanoha teased her, "I didn't realize puppy eyes were considered a professional tool to get one's way?"

Kissing Nanoha's crown Fate teased back, "Yup, it's right up there with flirty kitty behavior to distract your opponent and get them to do things your way."

Lifting herself up and stretching like a cat Nanoha let out a small cat-like noise that made Fate blush. Heaven help her, her wife was going to be the death of her! Leaning forward to tease her wife some more Nanoha nuzzled Fate's neck and flicked her tongue across a sensitive spot making her shiver with desire. Pulling back Nanoha gave Fate a small kiss before settling on her lap to look down on her.

There was an amused look in Nanoha's eyes, "Fate-chan, you really are something else, you know that?"

"How so, mio amore?" the prone blonde asked lovingly.

"When I started working Noriko refused to let me go through the apprenticeship program. She pressured the company I started with to put in with the big boys right off the bat. In her mind whether I succeeded or failed she'd still win. If I succeeded it proved how superior I was to everyone else and that was why I was a Scrya bride. If I failed she'd have that to hold over my head and use it to manipulate me further."

Playing with Fate's shirt hem Nanoha continued, "I fought constantly against the bias and prejudice that came with this shortcut. I had to be better than everyone else, work twice as hard, be more competent, and have the highest level of professionalism. By the time I had to leave my first posting I had finally proven I wasn't just a pretty face with a powerful family of in-laws. I hadn't slept my way into my position. Not that the Scryas didn't try to make me feel like I had every chance they got."

Fate pulled Nanoha back down onto her to hold her close, whispering into her ear, "You are talented beyond anyone else I have ever met. You leave me astounded most days with the way you not only keep up with me but push me," squeezing Nanoha a little tighter to hush her Fate continued, "Mio amore, your work might not have the same level of detail as my own but it has a life to it that rivals mine. You put a part of yourself in everything you do. There are no half measures. Plus you know how to deal with people. I can barely handle presentations competently. You are far and away better than I in so many ways. I can't help but be thankful you choose me over the multitude of better candidates for your heart."

Shaking her head Nanoha sighed, "I really don't remember there being a stampede of suitors Fate-chan. I still say I am the lucky one."

Thinking over the prior year Fate could remember a number of men and women who had stared at Nanoha with covetous eyes. It had left her feeling uneasy and unsure of what to do. It was those longing looks that had made Fate so desperate some days to get closer to Nanoha. To stake some claim on her. Foolish and naïve as she was for not recognizing what was happening to her until Lucino and Alto purposefully separated her from Nanoha she had only thought to keep some small hold on her. What would she have done if someone had stolen her away? The thought sickened her.

"What do you say to agreeing to disagree on this point mio amore? Besides truthfully I'd say we are blessed to have found one another. To have this chance at happiness, I don't want to question it and have it taken away," Fate pointed out gently.

Shifting so she could kiss some small patch of skin before responding Nanoha agreed, "I won't argue with you about that love. I definitely don't want to lose this either."

Pressing one more kiss on Fate's neck Nanoha thought about all they talked about and finally came to a decision, "Fate-chan, I want to go back to school. I'm going to put my resignation in then look into nearby schools to finish my Masters."

Releasing a long breath of relief Fate said, "That sounds wonderful. Hmm, I wonder if I should look into teaching then. Maybe I could be your professor and we could work on an extra credit assignment together?"

The blush that came to Nanoha's cheeks at this idea made Fate laugh as Nanoha gave her wife a light smack on the shoulder and mutter, "Horrible. You are awful!"

Rolling them a little so Nanoha was now on the bottom Fate looked down on her lovingly, "Aww Nanoha, I didn't get to know you when you were in high school in that cute little schoolgirl uniform. I think it'd be fun to be your teacher and give you detention."

The lecherous wiggle of Fate's eyebrows made Nanoha giggle and pull her down for a kiss. The kiss quickly grew more heated and needy but was interrupted when the door to the house sprang open. The teens seeing the rumpled and flushed pair tangled on the couch immediately turned red and slammed the door closed.

Standing on the stoop the pair tried to avoid eye contact and searched for a way to escape the awkward situation. Einhart being the more stoic of the pair was the first to distract the pair from their traumatic experience, "Um how about we go to my house, we have a couple of new games and Cia-chan should be with Carim-sensei."

Jumping at the offer Vivio said, "That sounds great…"

The pair was about to step off the stoop when the door opened again. The amused look on Nanoha's face when she saw the teens turn red again just made matters worse.

"You two are so cute sometimes. Come on inside, Fate-chan is starting dinner. I promise we'll behave ourselves."

Vivio wondered if she was going to be this embarrassing to her own children someday. Probably, Einhart was just as bad as Fate in some ways and she was becoming more and more like Nanoha everyday according to everyone around her. Sighing the beleaguered teens entered the house and purposefully avoided the couch. God only knew what shenanigans their elders had been getting up to before they arrived.

Nanoha sat back down on the couch with that same cat that ate the canary smile she had been sporting off and on since she claimed Fate for her own. She truly was a demonic queen of her domain pinning the teens with her stare and forcing them to sit before her. The pair took an arm chair each and sat upright wondering what new torment was about to befall them.

"You'll be happy to know Fate-chan and I have decided to resign from our jobs. The way some of the people there treated her was unacceptable to me and after talking with her about her past there it was an easy decision. I am going to go back to school as soon as it can be arranged. As for Fate-chan I am not exactly sure what she is planning, she will be looking into some other options but she has plenty to keep her busy even if she doesn't take on another full time job."

Vivio was relieved to hear her mother had finally made a decision and wasn't waiting for the company to make it for her. Learning more of what was going on at their workplace and how they were treated made her want her mom to quit. They didn't deserve to have Fate or her mom working for them.

Einhart smiled at the woman who brought her cousin to life, happy with the decision. She had been worried this situation would turn into another funk for one of the women adding more stress when neither one needed it. That they had worked out what they wanted without becoming moody and reserved was a definite step up in their relationship.

Fate came out of the kitchen at that moment and seeing her family all arranged comfortably smiled at them, "Hello girls, did you have a good day at school?"

The happy chirp from Vivio always made Fate laugh. Einhart's more coherent response was as ever succinct but heartfelt. Saving them from Nanoha's devious attention she said, "Why don't you two get changed and wash up then come to the kitchen to help."

Both jumped up at this chance to escape and went upstairs at a quick pace making Nanoha pout, "Mou Fate-chan! I wanted to tease them some more."

Leaning over to kiss the pouting lips quickly Fate smiled at the cuteness, "I love you diavolo bianco. Be a good girl and read your book. We'll call you when dinner's ready."

Nanoha wouldn't admit it even under torture but she was beginning to like her childhood nickname when Fate said it in Italian. For appearance sake Nanoha stuck her tongue out at Fate and settled back on the couch again to read.

~"~"~"~

Fate had to admit having Nanoha back in school made it so much easier for her to complete her birthday present. Going to her studio to work on her hidden project without Nanoha suspecting anything was a relief. After a week the painting finally felt complete to her and she let it properly dry before wrapping it up for presentation. The next question was whether it would be safe to hide the portrait at home or leave it where it was. Not trusting her curious kitty-wife wouldn't try to sneak a peek at her gift she hid it once more in a safe nook.

Nanoha was enjoying school and was making some new friends. Most of them were like her, career women who were coming back to complete their degrees so they could forward their careers. There was unfortunately one man who didn't seem to understand all Nanoha had to offer was friendship. It didn't matter to him she was married (especially to another woman) or that she was pregnant. He rather annoyingly pointed out her children would need a strong male role model to grow up properly.

Despite the annoyance Nanoha enjoyed her classes and had lunch with a few of her classmates whenever she had a chance. With her birthday only days away now she was looking forward to whatever surprise Fate had planned for them. Life was settling into a new comfortable rhythm and all she was truly concerned about was her growing womb. Fate was being a perfect wife by preparing the nursery and hovering over her nicely but still gave her space to do her own thing.

Of course Nanoha hadn't told her of the annoyance at school, the last thing she wanted was her wife to cause a scene at the school. Besides it wasn't like the guy had actually tried anything with her. Innuendo and leering looks didn't count for much and she shut him down every time he tried to make a move. It was beginning to be amusing to her friends to see Nanoha stomp on the man each day.

Fate could tell something was bothering Nanoha, she was using her evasive manner of speaking that she used when trying to hide something. Coming to the campus to bring her wife lunch two days before her birthday Fate discovered exactly why her wife was being evasive. The man was of the tall dark and handsome mold and dressed well. Fate watched the way he leaned into Nanoha and felt a growing darkness in her chest. Nanoha was hers; no one was allowed to touch her.

Knowing this wasn't the way to behave Fate dropped the lunch on a table and turned to leave. She trusted Nanoha, she had to believe in her or there would be nothing to base her world on. She had nearly made it to her car when she felt a familiar hand on her arm turning her. Tears she didn't even realize she was holding back fell from her eyes.

Nanoha saw the tears and pulled her wife into a tight embrace as she pressed kisses to her face and neck whispering words of love to her, "Shh Fate-chan, it's okay. I love you, only you. He's an annoyance. Not someone I find attractive. You're mine and I am yours. That's never going to change. I love you."

Holding Nanoha lightly, unsure and frightened by the dark feelings roiling inside her Fate asked, "Why didn't you tell me about him?"

Pulling back so she could look Fate in the eyes Nanoha said, "Because I didn't want you to get overprotective and cause a scene. I can handle an idiot male Fate-chan. If he tries anything you can bet he's going to be in for a world of hurt. The only person allowed to touch me is you. He just flirts, and I shut him down every time. I love you, only you can make me feel good when you flirt with me."

Swallowing the lump of aggression that wanted to scream and rage at the man Fate nodded, "I'm going to head home now. Have a good rest of the day."

Not letting Fate go Nanoha pulled her back down for a proper kiss. It quickly grew heated as Fate pressed her against the car and began to ravage her mouth in possessive greed. Hands skimmed up and down Nanoha's sides barely restraining themselves from taking liberties that would get them arrested for indecency. It was only the sound of a throat clearing that made the pair break apart.

Before them was the man who had been flirting with Nanoha and he had a look of revulsion on his face. Fate not thinking much of the man held her wife possessively and asked in a voice tinged with dismissal asked, "What do you want?"

The haughty look on his face made Nanoha want to slap him but his words crossed the line for her.

"So you are the so-called wife. You do realize you are dragging Nanoha down. You can't possibly make a woman like her happy. It'd be best if you just ended this before you ruin her children's lives with your unnaturalness."

Not allowing Fate the chance to respond Nanoha stepped forward and with all the strength she could muster punched the idiot. Blood spurted from his broken nose as tears flowed from his eyes.

"Listen to me very carefully, this is going to be the last time I warn you. I love my wife. These children are just as much hers as they are mine and we will raise them together. If you come near me again and spout that garbage again you'll be dealing with more than a broken nose. I will break you, you are nothing compared to my wife," Nanoha growled at the man in a cold voice.

He stepped back not just because of Nanoha's menace. The blonde behind her was looking at him with demonic eyes and he could sense between the two of them he really could be utterly destroyed. Stumbling over his own feet he escaped from the scene without a further word.

Once he was gone Fate grabbed Nanoha's hand and looked it over for damage. Seeing her knuckles were a little discolored she sighed, "Mio amore you could have let me handle him."

"No, I couldn't have. He would just think you were a pushy bitch and continued to nag at me. I've told him time and again I'm not interested, maybe now he'll believe me."

Pulling her in for another hug Fate held her, "You are going to be the death of me you know that. I need to protect you Nanoha. You are my life. I've never felt this way before and you going all warrior princess on people when I'm standing next to you is going to drive me nuts."

Nanoha giggled at this then turned serious eyes on her lover, "Fate-chan, when Cypha hit you I was so angry it didn't matter that she was bigger than me or that I am pregnant. I just wanted to crush her like a bug for hurting you. Now that man hurt you, his words and actions were a slur on our relationship and I won't stand for it. I have tried to be nice about it and reject him politely. This time he thought he could bully you and that was unacceptable. You protect me and I protect you, we're partners, remember?"

Cupping Nanoha' face Fate kissed her softly then said, "I love you Nanoha. I still have a lot to learn about relationships but that's never going to change. I trust you and I know you can handle yourself but I want to be the one to protect you. I've never had anything or anyone I've ever felt this strongly for, I don't want you hurt because of me."

Giving Fate a squeeze Nanoha smiled, "I feel the same way love. Now why don't you come and have lunch with me and my friends. They are all eager to meet my gorgeous goddess."

Blushing Fate stammered, "Na…nanoha, I really hope you haven't been calling me that in public."

Dragging Fate away from the car Nanoha just grinned at her wife. She really did like to talk about Fate; her friends were beginning to wonder if Fate was real. It was time to prove the reality of her perfect wife.

~"~"~"~

March 15th Midori-ya Café

Nanoha had class that morning and everyone was scrambling to arrange everything for the birthday girl. Her new friends had been quietly invited to the party along with the usual suspects. The restaurant was closed due to the number of people invited and because the family wanted to concentrate on their birthday girl.

An abundance of food and drink was on display. A small mountain of presents took up an entire table. Decorations bedecked every available inch of the room, balloons, streamers, ribbons and glitter were everywhere. Fate rubbed her head at the sight and sighed, next year Hayate wasn't going to be in charge of decorations. Now all that was left to do was wait for the birthday girl to arrive for her surprise party.

Walking up to the restaurant with her friends Nanoha was laughing at one of the women's teasing comment about how she was sure to get lucky tonight. After all birthday sex was supposed to be the best gift a person could receive. Nanoha wasn't going to argue this point, anytime Fate touched her was a wonderful gift she'd never take for granted.

Pushing open the door to the restaurant the booming shout of, "Happy Birthday," almost had Nanoha jumping out of her skin. She had never had a party like this before. Her family and a few friends getting together when she was younger had been the norm but in recent years it was just another day of the year. All she thought to expect was her wife and daughter meeting her for a quiet lunch with some friends, not a full out surprise party.

The multitude came forward to wish her a happy birthday with hugs and kisses. A flurry of faces and voices had her head spinning. Soon the music was playing and she was seated with a large plate of her favorite foods before her. The only thing missing was Fate. The blonde was working to serve the guests, stepping back for now to allow Nanoha time to enjoy her time with family and friends.

After the delicious lunch was cleared away games were played and to Nanoha's horror a karaoke machine was set up in one corner. The sounds of horrible singing and laughter filled the room from that corner. Looking around Nanoha couldn't find her wife again. She had spotted her a few times and only received a blown kiss and a wink. She was beginning to get frustrated with the situation; she wanted her wife holding her.

Not even seeing her former boss was enough to distract her from hunting her wife down. Yanagi could see her urgency to get away and find her wife leaned forward and said, "I saw her going to the kitchen Nanoha-san, be quick and I don't think anyone will notice you slipping away."

Maybe she should have been embarrassed at being so obvious but she just accepted the tip and gave the man a quick hug in thanks. Sneaking away she found Fate in the kitchen with her mother getting an enormous cake ready for the guests. Momoko seeing the needy look in Nanoha's eyes knew Fate was about to learn another hard lesson when it came to handling her daughter.

Pouting Nanoha came over to Fate and wrapped her arms around the blonde as she rubbed her cheek against her back, "Fate-chan, I missed you. Why are you hiding from me?"

Turning in Nanoha's arms Fate smiled, "I haven't been hiding mio amore. I've just been trying to make sure you have a happy birthday. Aren't you enjoying your party?"

Hormones now spiking Nanoha wasn't going to be reasonable, "No, I want my Fate-chan by my side. I don't need all this to be happy on my birthday, I just want you."

Leaning down Fate gave her a loving kiss and tried to placate her, "Mio amore you already have me. Don't you think it'd be greedy of me to hog you to myself all day? Just be patient and I promise I'll give you an extra special present later."

Wrapping her arms around Fate's neck Nanoha held her tightly and pouted, "No, I don't want to wait for my Fate-chan present, I want Fate-chan now."

Fate was confused for a moment, should she go get the package now?

Momoko started snickering and finally clued in Fate, "I think the birthday girl wants her Fate-chan present now. You two should be able to sneak off for a little bit, Nanoha's room is still just as it was when she was a child. Have fun you two."

Then the laughing woman escaped the kitchen leaving a blushing Fate and a giggling Nanoha behind.

Giving her wife a mock frown Fate said, "I now know where you get it from. I wonder how long it'll be before I am completely whipped like your father."

With a teasing bite to Fate's collar bone Nanoha said, "You already are love. Now you have a choice, you can come quietly or screaming."

Gaping at her wife Fate was incredulous, "Nanoha! All our family and friends are just outside that door!"

Pulling her wife along now Nanoha lead her to a back passage that lead to the upstairs living quarters, "Hmm it seems Fate-chan has chosen screaming. Well I won't complain as long as I get to taste my birthday treat."

Shaking her head at the horny woman Fate finally gave in and picked her up. Carrying her up the stairs Fate quickly found Nanoha's childhood bedroom and pushed open the door. The room was the quintessential girl's room with the stuff animals and pink and white bed spread. Kicking closed the door Fate set her wife down for a hot kiss. It was a dream come true for Nanoha to make love to her wife in her childhood room. She could almost believe she was a teenager again and no one but this woman would ever touch her.

Pushing Fate back against the door she greedily drank her down. Kisses and nipping bites to her neck made the blonde shiver and moan. Quickly Nanoha undid her blouse and pushed it off before reaching for the front clasp of her lover's bra. Once Fate's beautiful breasts were loose Nanoha ducked her head to place loving kisses on the full mounds. The sound of Fate's ragged breathing as she suckled and nipped at the sensitive peaks drove Nanoha to tease her further.

Groaning Fate pushed her away and breathing hard she said, "It's your birthday Nanoha that means I should be pampering you. Now I am going to make love to you."

The wicked smile Fate received at this made it clear she was going to have a fight on her hands. Tumbling onto the full sized bed the pair was removing clothes haphazardly as they teased each other to the best of their ability. Looking down at her wife hair loose and skin flushed she looked like a young girl again surrounded by the memorabilia of her childhood. Fate redoubled her efforts to pleasure her wife and eraser the past from her mind, Nanoha would only be hers from here on.

When Fate felt Nanoha's hand delve into her panties she knew she had already lost. Soon Nanoha was teasing her relentlessly and then a hot mouth had joined the teasing fingers and Fate was lost to the world. It was all Fate could do to restrain her cries of pleasure so as to not alert the entire household of their activities. After her body finally calmed from the intense orgasm Fate opened her eyes to see Nanoha cleaning her fingers with her lascivious tongue.

There was nothing on Earth that could have stopped Fate at that moment from jumping her wife. Capturing her in a tight embrace Fate pulled her down and began to love every inch of her. By the time Fate finally entered her she was so far gone all she could do was hold on to the blonde and plead for release. A slick teasing tongue toyed with her clitoris as two fingers filled her. Stroke after pounding stroke pushed her closer to the edge until she came hard with a gasping groan.

Cuddling into Fate's warmth Nanoha reflected each time she thought she couldn't be happier this woman made her happier with her love and all she did for her. Thanks to Fate her bond to her family was stronger than ever, she had new and old friends sharing her life, full custody of her daughter with two more on the way all because her loving wife constantly put her first. Never had she dreamed of being this happy. Kissing Fate's shoulder she whispered, "I love you."

Snuggled tight they dozed for a few minutes just enjoying the feeling of their bodies pressed against each other. They were finally disturbed by a knock on the door and Miyuki's giggling voice called out, "Okay you two it's time to rejoin the party. It's time for cake and presents."

Nanoha suddenly realized everyone downstairs likely knew what they had been up to and blushed scarlet. Why couldn't she control her raging hormones?! She'd blame Fate for being so delicious but really this whole situation was all her fault.

Fate saw the blush and started to laugh, "Oh did you finally realize you're going to have to face everyone again? I tried to convince you to wait but no you just had to try to have your cake and eat it too."

Pouting Nanoha whined, "Fate-chan! Whatever happened to wanting to protect me? How are we going to face everyone downstairs?"

Kissing Nanoha quiet Fate then pulled away, "We'll face them together. If anyone wants to tease you they'll have to deal with me. In fact you can say I snuck you away to give you your birthday present early."

Biting her lip Nanoha thought about it then laughed, "Everyone knows I am the corrupter in our relationship Fate-chan, do you honestly believe they'll fall for that?"

"They only think that because you don't tell tales. If they knew of the things we got up to during our honeymoon they'd all blame me for corrupting you."

Kissing her wife one more time Nanoha then pulled away to get dressed, "Ugh, our clothes are a mess. I really do need to learn to control myself."

Coming down the stairs and exiting the kitchen Fate couldn't help hugging Nanoha to her. She had missed feeling her wife throughout the party. Normally when in the same room the pair was connected at the hip and today had been an exercise in self control.

The cake was already on the table and a room of knowing smiles greeted them. Fate held Nanoha around the waist and refused to be embarrassed by the smirking smiles. Nanoha was carrying her children, maybe that hadn't happened the traditional way but they still enjoyed a healthy sex life. Leading Nanoha over to the head of the table the lights were lowered and everyone began to sing Happy Birthday.

Fate stood right behind Nanoha and sang softly in her ear giving her goose bumps. The loving tone and warmth made the moment all the more special. Blowing out the candles the only wish she had was that this love she shared with Fate never ended. She quickly cut the first piece of the cake then her mother took over cutting and dispersing it to the guests. As Nanoha ate she did receive a light ribbing from friends and family. Fate's glare made sure most didn't go too far, especially their sisters and her best friend.

Once the remains of the cake was cleared away the presents were brought out and Nanoha was reminded why she sometimes hated her best friend. Looking inside the box she quickly closed it again and glared at her friend. Miyuki's evil grin when she asked innocently what was in the box made it clear they were collaborators. Nanoha said in a choked voice it was nightclothes and left it at that while forcing the box in Fate's hands to guard from snooping eyes.

Unfortunately Nanoha forgot Fate was just as curious as anyone else and when she opened the box her laughter caught everyone's attention. Fate pulled out the onesie pajama and had to admire its workmanship. It had a hood with cat ears sewn in, the sleeves ended with cat paws that could be slipped off at the wrist and the legs ended in footie paws. But the best part was the tail, Fate really liked it and couldn't wait to see her wife in the outfit and give it a tug.

Nanoha grabbed the outfit out of her wife's hands and pushed it back in the box squealing, "Fate-chan! Don't show that off!"

Looking at her wife innocently Fate asked, "Why not? It's cute."

Hayate cackled and then presented another box this time to Fate and said, "Since you appreciate my efforts so much I have a gift just for you."

Confused Fate opened the box and found another pair of pajamas but this time it had dog ears and tail, the size was obviously larger too for Fate's taller frame. Sticking her arm inside the sleeve she checked the fit and found it actually covered her long arm comfortably and it was very warm. Not being all that embarrassed by cutesy things such as this Fate smiled and thanked Hayate.

The disbelieving look on Hayate's face when Fate failed to blush or stammer won Alicia a tidy sum from the shrimp. Fate actually loved stuffed animals and cutesy sleepwear. Not that she got to keep much of it as Einhart or Alicia ended up stealing most of it from her. There were downsides to living with people the same size and had the same tastes as you.

Nanoha looked at her wife in disbelief also, "You can't be serious about liking that thing."

Shrugging Fate folded the pajama neatly back into the box and said, "It's warm and cute. Besides you're always calling me your puppy so now I really can be."

Clasping a hand over Fate's mouth Nanoha reprimanded her wife, "Fate don't talk about that in public!"

In response to this Fate gave Nanoha her best puppy eyes begging for forgiveness. Groaning Nanoha removed her hand and turned to her sister and asked for the next gift. If she continued talking about this it would only get worse.

Soon the gifts were all open but Nanoha noticed there was no present from Fate. She wasn't sure if she should be upset or not. Fate had planned this party for her. Had given into her every whim that day and then there was the fact she had already given Nanoha everything she could possibly want. Did she really want another material object when having Fate really was all she needed?

Fate could see the conflict on Nanoha's face when all the wrapping paper was being cleaned up. There was one more present but she wasn't sure if Nanoha wanted it now or might appreciate it more privately so leaned in and asked.

"Mio amore I have a gift for you but I don't want to embarrass you. Would you like to wait until everyone leaves or open it now?"

Turning to look at her wife Nanoha asked suspiciously, "It's not more sleepwear is it?"

Smiling at her wife Fate shook her head, "No but it is personal. It's nothing to be ashamed of but maybe we should wait until it's just family?"

Now very curious Nanoha asked, "What is it?"

"Uh-ah, you have to wait until you open it to find out," Fate teased her.

Looking around the room, Nanoha thought about what Fate said, it was personal but not something to be ashamed of. Fate wasn't one to give intimate gifts publically so it couldn't be anything too bad.

"Let me open it now. I'd like to let everyone see what my wonderful wife got for me," Nanoha said.

Getting up Fate went to a closet and pulled out a large box. It came up to her waist and looked like a small child could fit in the box. Fate had been convinced by Alicia and Hayate to tease her wife by triple wrapping the gift. Considering what was in it and that no one but her had seen it she wasn't sure if this was appropriate but decided to go along with their suggestion. This was the first birthday gift she was giving her wife; she wanted to go all out.

Tearing off the outer paper Nanoha then struggled to open the box only to find a thinner box inside with a mountain of packing peanuts. Pulling the box out she was soon covered by the peanuts which made Alicia and Hayate laugh in the corner. Tearing off another layer of wrapping paper and fighting with the box again she found another wrapped item inside the box.

Sitting the box down Nanoha looked at her wife and said, "If there is another box inside this one you're sleeping on the couch tonight."

The idiot peanut gallery roared with laughter as Fate's face took on a horrified look. This would be the last time she listened to them!

Nanoha glared at the idiot duo and realizing Fate had been lead astray she kissed her wife and apologized, "Sorry love, I should have known those two were behind this."

Pulling out the last package Nanoha frowned, it felt like a piece of wood. Holding it carefully she tore the paper off and felt all the air in her lungs rush out of her at the framed portrait before her. This wasn't her, it couldn't be. The woman before her was too beautiful to even be compared to her.

"You once asked me to paint you. To show you how I see you. This is as close as I can get. Its close but you are far more beautiful to me than this. I wasn't really able to capture your spirit; maybe someday I might be able too."

Nanoha's family gathered around and were in awe, Shiro spoke for the family, "It's perfect Fate-chan. I can't imagine a better portrait of my daughter. You did capture her spirit, I can feel it. It's almost like you caught her frozen in time. That smile, it's pure Nanoha."

Carefully placing the painting down Nanoha got up and hugged her wife now crying. It was too much, the fact that even her family believed this otherworldly being in the portrait could be her made it almost surreal.

Placing a soft kiss on Nanoha's temple Fate asked, "Do you like it? I can try again."

All Nanoha could do was hug Fate tighter since she had no words at the moment. Fate could see the guests take in the portrait and took in the soft murmur of voices. Many agreed with the likeness and others were struck dumb. The new friends Nanoha had made were all looking at Fate in awe. No longer would anyone question the feelings of the blonde for Nanoha. It was clear from the care and attention placed in the painting exactly how much Fate loved her wife.

It wasn't long after this that the guests left. Nanoha couldn't let Fate go so moved by the portrait that it was up to her family to see the guests off as Fate took her back upstairs. This time there was no lustful intentions; Nanoha just needed a quiet moment with her wife. Laying down again on the bed Fate held her as she gently stroked her hair.

After a few minutes Nanoha asked, "Do you really see me that way?"

"I don't lie in my artwork Nanoha. I paint things as I see them. You might not believe it but everyone downstairs saw it. That painting was as true a rendition as I could make. You are my angel, I might tease you by calling you diavolo bianco but you are more angelic than devilish to me. That night when we became a couple and you came in that dress I could have sworn you were an angel. It was hard to believe you wanted me, even harder to believe that you trusted me with your body."

Sitting up Nanoha looked at Fate and suddenly she felt too small and unworthy of this gift, "I wish I could show you how I see you. I don't have that ability. I could try and try and never come close. How am I ever to show you how much you mean to me?"

Letting her hand smooth over Nanoha's rounding abdomen Fate said, "When our babies are born you will have given me something more precious than any painting. You will have taken a part of me and allowed it to mix with a part of you to create someone unique. These babies will be part of both of us and all themselves. Neither will be purely a miniature Fate or Nanoha but the best of both of us. Love them Nanoha, give them the love I never had as a child and I can't ask for anything more."

This simple request carried more weight than anything else Fate had ever asked of her. Loving Fate's children would be as natural as breathing but to go one step beyond and shower them with the love Fate missed out on would be her life's goal.

Settling back against Fate she whispered, "I promise Fate-chan. They'll never doubt they're loved."

~"~"~"~

Returning to school Nanoha was happy to find Mr. Annoying was keeping his distance. The raccoon look he was sporting thanks to her punch apparently was just what was needed to get her rejection through his thick head. The women who had come to the party continually teased Nanoha about Fate and their disappearance during the party.

As they sat together one of them fanned herself and said, "I just wish my husband looked at me the way your wife looks at you, whoa. I don't know how you can stand to leave her by herself. I'd be concerned about some floozy trying to run off with her."

Smiling self consciously Nanoha said, "I really don't need to worry about that. Fate's never been interested in romance, until we met she never even had a girlfriend or lover. She's had plenty of offers but never took anyone up. She loves me and I know I can trust her."

One of the others, who was perhaps Carim's age leaned in and said in surprise, "You mean you're the only one to hit that? Yikes, I'd definitely be scared. Once the seal comes off that's when they start sniffing around to have something to compare what they got with. I've seen it time and again, they can't settle down until they work out all their curiosity about what's out there."

Frowning Nanoha asked, "What do you mean by "they." Never mind, listen Fate-chan isn't some kind of skirt chaser. She doesn't fall into any kind of stereotype so just drop it."

The woman raised an eyebrow and pointedly said, "She chased after you didn't she? And look at that sister of hers, didn't you say she was one of those flavor of the month women until recently. Like I said, they have to work out the kinks first."

Picking up her remainders of her lunch Nanoha glared at the woman and said, "I know my wife, she isn't like that. She can't stand for people to touch her normally. You have to earn her trust before she'd even hug you. Fate-chan is mine, only mine and that's how it'll always be. Now I am going to library, I have research to do."

Sitting in the library Nanoha couldn't concentrate. Her mind roiled with questions, 'What was Fate doing at this exact moment? Was she at home working on the nursery? Or was she at her studio or at her sister's home working? Maybe shopping with one of their friends for something for the babies? …was she with someone having an affair? NO! Fate would never do that!'

Slamming her book closed she got up and found herself driving home no longer concerned with her afternoon class. Entering the house she heard music coming from upstairs and found her wife painting the mural on the walls of the nursery. Every day there was something new on the walls, some scene from a magical world that would fill their children's lives with wonder. She felt like an idiot coming home to check on her wife like this.

Sensing someone was behind her Fate turned and seeing Nanoha standing there immediately became worried. Getting up she came over checking her over for any signs of injury or sickness.

Placing a gentle hand on her cheek Fate asked, "Mio amore are you okay? Why are you home?"

Kissing Fate for her concern suddenly Nanoha needed to reassure herself that Fate was all hers. Pulling her wife out of the nursery to their bedroom she began to strip her of her clothing. By the time they got to the bed Fate had decided this must be one of those pregnant women things and just let her wife have her way.

As Nanoha climbed on to her pressing them together she asked, "Are you mine Fate-chan?"

Flushed with desire and desperate now to feel her wife she said, "Only yours mio amore, please love me."

Nanoha began to move desperate to feel Fate hot and wet beneath her. Each twitch and moan making it harder to control the speed of her thrusts, she wanted Fate to fall apart, to melt into her. When Nanoha's desperate need was finally spent she fell forward onto her wife and began to cry.

Rolling them over Fate looked at her crying wife and concerned asked, "Nanoha, are you okay? You didn't hurt yourself did you? Stai bene angelo mio?" [Are you okay my angel?]

Touching Fate's face Nanoha admitted to her rash stupidity, "I let someone get to me. One of the women at school was talking about how you would start searching for another lover soon. How you'd need to find something to compare what we have too. I feel sick Fate-chan. I trust you but I couldn't stop thinking about you with someone else and I had to come home. I knew you weren't with someone else but I had to check, then claim you."

Kissing Nanoha to relieve her mind Fate then said kindly, "I don't want or need another lover. I can't imagine finding someone else who can make me forget everything and just feel like you do. That woman seems to think what we have is something transitory. Or maybe she's jealous. I don't know what her problem is but I can categorically say this love between us isn't going to change. At least not on my end. You're not planning on leaving me any time soon are you?"

Holding Fate tightly Nanoha declaimed, "NO! You're mine!"

Nuzzling Nanoha's neck Fate said lovingly, "Yes I am, all yours, for as long as I live and in the hereafter. The whole till death do us part isn't enough; I will be yours until the end of time."

Fate could have sworn Nanoha started purring at that moment but the she was soon to busy dealing with hungry hands and a hot mouth trying to possess her again to really listen.

~"~"~"~

A few hours later when Nanoha woke up from her nap Fate was gone but there was a note on the pillow next to her:

Mio amore,

I had a quick errand to run. I'll be home in less than an hour. Call me if you need anything.

Love,

Your Fate-chan

Not really happy with this development but not about to make a fool of herself again Nanoha got up to take a shower. It was too late to make it to her last class so she'd just get cleaned up and maybe do some reading until Fate got home.

~"~"~"~

Uminari University

Fate was standing outside the building of Nanoha's last class. She wasn't sure which of Nanoha's new friends had instilled her new paranoia but she was going to straighten them out. The group Fate recognized from her lunch date and the party as they came out together talking. The oldest one of the group grinned slyly when she saw Fate alone. Nanoha was missing and now her wife was here just begging to be snatched up by a better woman.

Fate knew that look and hated it; it made her feel like a piece of meat. Coming over to the group she asked them politely to step over to the side to speak with her. Most of the women were concerned something had happened to Nanoha and came without question.

It took all of Fate's self control not to growl at the women, "Nanoha came home today upset over something that was talked about during your lunch break. Being pregnant little things tend to set her off quite easily and I am worried about people upsetting her unnecessarily. Maybe you all didn't mean anything by your comments to her but her first marriage left her with a lot of sore spots and you hit upon one. I just want to make it clear to all of you, I love my wife. Anyone trying to come between us will be asking for a world of pain. That man in your class learned his lesson the hard way. I have no qualms about teaching the same lesson to anyone coming onto me or my wife. Nanoha is mine and I am hers. Only hers. I find the prospect of anyone else touching me vile. So I will ask you all politely to refrain from speaking of this subject around my wife again."

The first woman who had brought up the subject blushed and apologized for her comment. The one giving Fate the eye gave her some lip service but obviously didn't mean a word of it. Bowing to the women Fate then excused herself. She wondered if the woman would follow her or do something stupid later.

Fate had just gotten to her car when the woman tried to do what Nanoha had done only days before and found herself in a world of pain. Instinctively Fate caught her hand and twisted it until a pop sounded.

Releasing the hand Fate growled, "I warned you. I do not like people touching me. You are not my wife nor are you a member of my family and you most definitely are not a friend of mine. They are the only people I allow to touch me so familiarly."

Holding her hand against her chest the woman glared at her and spat, "You're a stupid freak! You don't know what your wife is, she doesn't love you, she's a straight woman pretending to love you just for your money. I can't wait to see her take you for all you're worth and leave you heartbroken. I could have saved you from that but you're too caught up in those lying eyes of hers."

Fate clenched her fists and in an ice cold voice said, "You have no idea what you're dealing with, I could break your neck right now for what you've said about my wife and I wouldn't feel the least guilt. The only reason you're still alive is because I want my children to grow up knowing me. Stay the hell away from my wife. If you say one word to her that makes her upset again I will personally see to it that your life is ruined. I will make death look like a mercy. Oh and I already know I am a freak. Thankfully my wife loves me just the way I am."

Opening her car door Fate slid in and left the parking lot at a sedate pace despite the fact she had rather smoke the woman with burning rubber. Stopping at the corner store she picked up some ice cream, the sweet treat would do her nerves good.

Nanoha was sitting on the couch when Fate got home and she instantly could tell something was wrong with Fate by the set of her jaw.

Getting up Nanoha checked her over before asking, "What happened Fate-chan?"

Sighing Fate tried to let go of the tension before speaking, "Let's go to the kitchen, I got us a treat. It'll make the talk a little easier to get through I hope."

Fishing out two spoons Fate set the two pint containers of ice cream before Nanoha to allow her first choice. Taking the cookie dough ice cream Nanoha sat at the counter and waited for Fate to start the discussion by taking a small bite.

Sitting down Fate took the rocky road ice cream but didn't open the container, playing with the top she started speaking, "I went to your school. I know you don't want me making a scene so I was very calm."

Covering Fate's hand with her own Nanoha asked, "What happened?"

"I talked to your friends; they apologized for upsetting you after I explained the situation. Then the older one, Kisa-san I think, she followed me to the car. She tried to touch me. She had been looking at me in a way that made me uncomfortable. I warned them I don't like people touching me. I think I broke her wrist. She said some ugly things about you and me. I warned her to stay away from you. I wanted to hurt her so much but I left after that."

With her free hand Nanoha rubbed her forehead, "She was the one who went on and on about you seeking out another lover. You were right she was jealous. What did she say about us?"

Not wanting to repeat the words Fate just shrugged and said, "Nothing important, she was just spewing garbage again."

Squeezing her wife's hand Nanoha asked again, "Please Fate."

Licking her lips Fate said, "She said you were using me, that you don't really love me. That you're really straight and just married me for my money. She just called me a freak."

Burying her head in her hands Nanoha groaned, "What is it about us that we attract these horrible people? I just want to live a quiet life with you, why do people keep wanting to mess things up for us?"

Getting up Fate hugged Nanoha and kissed her, "They can try all they like but I am not going to give you up. I told them you are mine and I am yours. Anyone trying to come between us will be in a world of hurt. I meant that, if she messes with you again Nanoha I need to know. I won't let anyone hurt you. Not verbally, mentally, emotionally and most definitely not physically or sexually. A person tries to force themselves on you and I will destroy them."

Worried Nanoha looked at her wife and asked, "You don't think she'd try something like that?"

Equally worried Fate said, "I don't know. I've been assaulted a few times by people who couldn't take no for an answer. I've never had a lover to worry about but if they'd hurt me to get their way I don't think someone delusional enough to attack me would hesitate to hurt you too."

Suddenly feeling exhausted Nanoha asked weakly, "Should I just quit school?"

Angry now Fate said, "No! You have every right to get your education. I won't have you hiding in our house like a prisoner. These people just need to leave us alone. If I have to buy a cattle prod or stun gun I will."

For some reason that mental picture made Nanoha laugh, leaning her head on Fate's shoulder, "I love you Fate-chan. Please don't ever change."

Humming with happiness Fate replied, "Hmm and this is why I love you so much. You love me just the way I am."

~"~"~"~

The next day Kisa was conspicuous by her absence, when her classmates asked what she thought happened, Nanoha admitted to the woman trying to come onto Fate which had lead to a confrontation. When Kisa returned to class the following week with a cast on her wrist she avoided the group and Nanoha was just as happy to avoid her too. The woman had made herself a pariah to the other group members by going after another woman's partner.

The next week went by quietly and Nanoha was happy to have both annoyances giving her a wide berth wherever she went. Her only looming worry was April 1st being a few days away. Her family and friends were evil when it came to pranks. She was wondering if it might be best to hide in the house the whole day. After all Fate wouldn't do anything evil to her.

~"~"~"~

April 1st

Waking up to an empty bed really wasn't how Nanoha wanted to start this most evil of days. Groaning she sat up thinking April Fools was already shaping up to be the worst day of the year. As she sat up stretching for a moment Nanoha sensed someone was watching her but didn't see anyone around. Putting her feet on the carpeted floor she let out a squeak of dismay when a wet tongue began to lick her toes.

Pulling her feet back up to escape her attacker Nanoha saw a puppy with spiky red fur and big blue eyes. Shaking her head she prayed this was a prank, if Fate or Vivio bought a dog for real she'd have to drop the hammer of doom on them.

Grabbing the puppy in one arm she padded down the stairs and found a surprise visitor. A very heavily pregnant Arf was sitting on the couch with her husband. Hurrying down the stairs Nanoha came over to the pair and hugged them both in greeting happy to see them once again.

Arf took the puppy from Nanoha and laughed, "I see you found JR, horribly cute little monster isn't he?"

"Oh thank heavens, he's yours. I thought I was going to have to kill Vivio for bring home another stray," Nanoha said with relieved sigh.

Laughing Arf petted the squirming beast, "Yup he's mine. Hayate bought him for me, isn't she wonderful. Like I don't have enough to worry about with this little one coming in a few weeks," she said the last as she rubbed her swollen belly.

Walking in at this Hayate was carrying another puppy with spiky bluish fur and deep blue eyes. Smiling evilly Hayate dropped the puppy in Nanoha's lap and said, "Happy belated birthday!"

The puppy looked up at her with soulful eyes and Nanoha felt like she was being a complete brute when she turned it away and handed it back to Hayate, "Oh no you don't! You can drop stray dogs on relatives but not me."

Pushing the dog back at Nanoha Hayate said, "Nanoha, Nanoha, Nanoha, tisk-tisk don't you know every child needs a pet. You've already deprived Vivio of the joy of growing up with a pet are you going to do the same to those poor little innocents you're carrying."

Getting up Nanoha dropped the dog in her chair and went to search for her wife, she needed back up to get that cute ball of fluff out of their house. In the kitchen Vivio and Fate were seated at the counter arguing.

"If they named the red one after Arf we should name the blue one after Zafira, then maybe one day they can have puppies!" Vivio enthused.

Shaking her head Fate said, "No, I won't name a dog after my best friend's husband then try to set it up to have puppies with their dog that is named after her. It's wrong on so many levels I can't even begin to explain."

Horrified that her wife and daughter were arguing over names for the fluff ball Nanoha said loudly, "NO! No, no, no! We are not keeping it. Fate-chan you always said no pets."

Seeing the look on Nanoha's face Fate broke down in laughter causing Vivio to crack instantly. Pouting Alicia came in with the puppy and said, "I knew you wouldn't be able to keep a straight face. You're paying for the first month of kibble."

Waving off her sister Fate was still giggling at the confused look on Nanoha's face. Einhart came in with a happy grin and petted the puppy in Alicia's arms.

Seeing the way the blondes at the counter were still laughing Einhart explained, "April Fools Nanoha, the puppy belongs to Cia-chan and me. Now that Fate has moved out Cia has decided to go all out and destroy the house with this ball of fluff with teeth."

Relieved the first thing she did was smack both her blondes on the shoulder, "You two are awful. You're trying to give me a heart attack, the little creature is cute but it would run me ragged trying to deal with it and twins."

Giving her wife puppy eyes Fate tried to apologize but Nanoha just covered her face with her hands and said, "No, I don't want to hear it or see those puppy eyes of yours. I thought you were nicer than this Fate-chan, tricking me like this is too much!"

Seeing an opening Fate tickled her wife's sides and once her hands were pulled away she moved in for a kiss. It didn't take long for Nanoha to kiss her back and start giggling over the whole prank. Breaking the kiss she smiled, "I will have to get you back for this you know."

"I'll look forward to it," Fate replied with a happy smile.

The happy moment was broken by Hayate, "Sheech don't you two know that much sugar can cause diabetes?"

Turning around to glare at her friend, "I should have known this whole thing was a set up the second I saw you in the house," then she stopped, "Um Hayate what are Arf and Zafira doing here? She's going to have that baby in a few weeks it not good for her to be traveling right now."

Waddling in Arf answered for herself, "I'm on maternity leave and once I go back on duty I'll be working for Interpol. Big thank you to both of you, the Scrya Affair has given my career a boost. I'll be stationed here so Zafira and I decided to move here before our little one arrives. Oh and this isn't a joke, you guys are stuck with us."

Very happy at this news Nanoha hugged Arf again and began to ask her a thousand questions at once.

Pulling Nanoha off Arf Fate answered a few questions at once, "They're still looking for a place but I was thinking of talking to the Hayakawas next door to see if they really do want to sell. They've been talking about moving for years but haven't put the house on the market because of how poor the market is for sellers. I was thinking of making a very nice offer on the house and making it a gift as a combined Wedding/Baby shower gift."

Arf looked at her crossed eyed, "Fate you can't do that! Zafira and I can afford to buy our own home."

A little hurt at the outcry Fate said, "I just wanted to do something nice. This way you'd be nearby to some friendly faces, the house is big enough for when you have more kids and you can use your savings to decorate it the way you like."

Conflicted Nanoha decided to side with Fate on this, "Please at least let Fate look into it. I'd really like it if we could be neighbors. Just think we could take the fence down and the kids could all play together in a big yard."

Deciding to take a poke at Nanoha for taking Fate's side Arf pointed out, "Yes with our dog, I'm sure he'll love digging up both our yards."

Nanoha shrugged, "That blue mutt will likely be over here just as much as its own home, I know my daughter, she'll be smuggling it over here every chance she gets. I have a hard enough time getting Einhart to go home most days. I have a feeling the number of strays I'll be feeding has just doubled, no matter what these people tell me."

Vivio brightened, "So does that mean we can keep it after all?"

Giving her daughter a dry look Nanoha said, "No Vi. I will allow it to come over occasionally but you have to keep an eye on it properly. If that animal destroys anything valuable I will have you working all your school break to pay for the damage."

Slightly disappointed but happy she wouldn't have to really smuggle the dog over and risk being grounded Vivio took the concession, "Yes mama."

It was at this point Nanoha's stomach growled which set off Arf's stomach and both pregnant women turned to Fate. The blonde immediately moved to the stove and asked, "What can I make for you?"

~"~"~"~

Fate had the house next door appraised and knowing the couple next door would never get anywhere near that in the current market knocked on the door with a pre-drawn up contract for the fair market value. After a long talk then a walk through the two parties came to an agreement and quickly had the contract signed. The house ownership would transfer in thirty days but the couple would be gone as soon as the check cleared. They had plans to travel and Fate's generous offer now allowed them to begin to enjoy their retirement.

Most of the furniture was up for sell so Fate had Arf look through the pieces and decide if she wanted any. The feisty red head insisted on paying for the furniture she did select herself and wrote the couple a check for their oak dining table and a pool table. With everything else being removed quickly Arf and having a field day bossing Zafira, Hayate, and Fate around to get the house set up as soon as possible.

It really looked like the nursery and house wouldn't be complete in time for the baby's arrival what with the repairs and upgrades the couple wanted to complete before moving in. Once the major work was completed Fate was deployed to decorate the nursery. She spent from twelve to fourteen hours a day in the room with her fellow captives painting the walls as they put furniture together. Arf had shanghaied all of her husband's family into working around the clock so at least Fate wasn't lonely in her forced labor.

Nanoha could have been jealous seeing Fate scramble around for another woman but it was clear Arf was treating Fate as just another minion. It shocked her the first time she came over and the scarily stoic Signum was running around like a chicken without a head because of the barking orders flowing from the red head. Signum had been in Germany with her wife Shamal but the news of the move meant both had returned to Japan to not only help set up the house but to celebrate the birth of the first baby for their family since Vita.

As Nanoha watched the scurrying minions it was beginning to get difficult to believe blonde wasn't the dominate hair color within their group. Shamal, Vivio, Carim, Fate, and Alicia had various shades of blonde but with them scuttling like ants it was getting confusing. When Arisa arrived Nanoha decided to go lay down before she ended up kissing the wrong one. Suzuka agreed with this decision and went with her to keep her company as the others got sucked into the madness.

As Nanoha laid down rubbing her tummy trying to calm the fluttering feeling she was now experiencing Suzuka asked, "What's it like?"

Smiling Nanoha said, "Wonderful. I can feel them more and more every day. I never thought I'd feel like this. They make me so happy and so uncomfortable, they wriggle so much."

Trying not to show her eagerness Suzuka asked, "Do you think Carim-sensei would be willing to take on more test subjects? I know Hayate and Rein are in line but does she have others in mind?"

Smirking at her sister-in-law Nanoha teased, "Hmm you've caught the bug too. Have you talked to Arisa about this yet or are you planning on springing it on her after Carim agrees?"

Blushing the purple haired woman said, "She was the one who suggested it actually. I was really surprised but I like the idea. I never thought we'd be able to have children. Both of our families are against insemination. It was hard enough to get them to accept our relationship we never dared to think about pushing them further with adoption. If the baby could be ours they couldn't hold our relationship against us anymore. It's not like only having daughters is something our fathers can complain about."

Nanoha smile grew wider, "I always knew Arisa was a big softy. You'll both make great parents. I'll talk to Carim-sensei tomorrow at my next check up. She's very happy with my progress and was talking about letting Hayate and Rein start with the hormone treatments soon. It'd be nice if all of us could have babies around the same time. I'd love to see them all go to school together like we did."

~"~"~"~

Carim stared at her patients and wondered if she had bitten off more than she could chew when getting involved with these women. Not only were her professional dreams coming true she was now becoming a real member of their family. That this family was ever expanding and was also looking for help to continue expanding meant she was going to have to put her best efforts forth to make sure they were all safe.

Fate liked the idea of more women undergoing the treatment and told Carim further grants to pay for the work would be forthcoming if she agreed to accept the Tsukimura-Bannings couple. That Suzuka was technically her sister-in-law through Nanoha's brother meant nothing. The woman was one of Nanoha's dearest friends and a good friend to her. As for Bannings, Fate now had an understanding with the woman, Fate would treat Nanoha like a princess and she wouldn't get beaten to a pulp by the overly aggressive American. That Fate already treated Nanoha like a princess and planned on continuing until the day she died didn't seem to faze the aggressive woman.

Seeing how unsure Carim was Fate asked, "Carim-sensei, you agree our girls are developing normally?"

The blonde's nod made Fate smile and continue, "Your facilities and staff here are sufficient to handle more patients with maybe another nurse to help and a pediatrician later?"

Again Carim nodded so Fate asked the big question, "Why are you so fearful of taking on more patients then? You have been hesitating to let Hayate and Rein begin the hormone treatments and that part is nearly commonplace now. Women have been doing it for decades now. What's holding you back?"

Biting her lip Carim blushed and admitted quietly, "I was hoping your sister would suggest we go through the process too. It would be too much for me to handle my own pregnancy and three other women's at the same time."

Fate's grin at this was almost feral, "Who said you'd have to be the one to carry the baby. I think it'd be good for Cia-nee to carry the baby."

Surprised at this suggestion Carim asked, "Do you really think your sister would carry our baby?"

Leaning back in her chair Fate said, "Just leave this to me. It's about time Cia-nee made an honest woman of you."

Stammering now Carim tried to speak, "Hon…hon…honest woman?"

"What? Did you think I'd let you get my sister knocked up without marrying her? Any nieces I have are going to be born to properly married parents. We should be able to arrange that pretty quickly. Too bad you hadn't come to a better understanding with Cia-nee before now; we could have had a double wedding."

Carim's head landed on her desk in a dead faint, Nanoha gave her a poke and said, "I think you pushed her a little too far this time love."

"If she's going to survive in this family she'll have to toughen up. Besides I meant it, one way or the other I want to see Alicia married before they start having babies. Carim is just the woman for her and I don't want to see them take the easy way out if things get rough in the future."

"Hmm, I think you just want to get revenge on your sister for always messing with your love life," Nanoha countered.

Laughing Fate said quietly, "Maybe a little."

~"~"~"~

A/N2: Heh-heh, how evil will Fate be when dealing with Alicia? Will she have more success than Alicia in getting her sister to dance to her tune? Find out next time! Love ya guys, I look forward to your reviews.