A/N: Hi all, just wanted to send a big thank you to ELFBS for all his help in beta reading this chapter. He is a slave driver but I think the quality of my writing has improved thanks to his abuse. I have the start of the next chapter in the works already, so hopefully it won't be three months before we see another update. If it is I will just blame it on the six other stories that are begging for my attention. I look forward to wrapping up one or two of them soon so they can be posted.
As for this story we still have a few things I want to get to before ending it: Alicia/Carim's wedding, the Disney trip/1st time for Vivio/Einhart, the birth of NanoFate's babies and some other minor plot points. If there is some dangling plot point you desperately need me to touch on for your satisfaction please let me know. There are a ton of characters running through this story we only meet in passing so I don't want to leave anyone dissatisfied.
Thank you all for continuing to read this story, please review as it feeds the herd of plot bunnies that have taken over my brain.
Disclaimer: I do not own MGLN or any of its characters. No profit is made from this writing.
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Chapter 29: Dawn Of A New Day
Fate opened her eyes to darkness, the room she was in was unfamiliar and for a brief moment she panicked. It was only when the warm body tucked against her sighed as a soft hand squeezed her, unconsciously comforting her, that her body relaxed once more. 'How could anyone not love this woman?' Fate thought to herself, feeling her anger at Scrya for causing her beloved so much pain. In the past day cycle Nanoha had provided her with so much love and support it made her heart ache with gratitude.
After a few minutes of lying in bed staring at the ceiling her eyes adjusted to the dimness and she could see a sliver of moonlight from where the curtains hadn't been fully closed. Sliding out of bed carefully Fate went to the window, peeking through the gap she could see the dark water gently lapping at the beach. Opening the curtain slightly she stared out at the horizon, the inky black of the sky with its smattering of stars and greyish clouds seemed to blend in seamlessly with the vast dark ocean. All her life she had loved the sky, dreaming of it when locked away but never once had she seen it like this.
Pinpricks of light seemed to reflect off the dark water as if it was the sky's Earthbound twin. The colors of night were not ones she normally worked with but at this moment she was finding the various shades of blues, blacks and greys intriguing. Her hands twitched as they traced out the curve of a distant shadow unconsciously. Lost in contemplating the beautiful dark mystery before her Fate was surprised when arms curled around her.
In a sleepy voice Nanoha said, "What are you doing up Fate-chan? Come back to bed. It's cold."
Pulling her around Fate hugged her wife properly and was rewarded with a purr-like noise that just reinforced Fate's mental image of her wife being a spoiled kitten. It didn't take long before Nanoha spoke again, this time more mentally alert, "Do you want to go outside and watch the sunrise? The colors can be very beautiful."
Thinking of the evening before with the sunset and how it had been so different from her usual experience of the daily phemonoma. Looking down at her wife and knowing this quiet moment on the beach was likely the only one they would have alone for the rest of the day she made a momentous decision. Kissing her forehead Fate said, "Let's get dressed first then we can watched the sunrise together."
Opening the dresser Fate swallowed hard as she pulled out their swimsuits. Turning to Nanoha she handed her the light pink bikini she had been dying to see her wear. The gold two piece Fate held knocked the last of the sleep from Nanoha's mind. Wonder and love filled the auburn haired woman's heart as she saw Fate strip and with shaking hands put on the swimsuit. Kissing the marred shoulder blade exposed to the world Nanoha tried to give her wife the support she needed to follow through with her goal.
When dark eyes focused to watch her change she tried to make it as entertaining as possible. Her breasts were fuller than they had been when they first married and much more sensitive which made them the object of Fate's attention more often than not. The top while it covered her seemed to be straining to contain her fuller figure. Nanoha was sure Fate wouldn't be able to leave the string ties alone. When it came to putting on her bottoms the way they fit her with her growing tummy made her pout. Trying to adjust them to be comfortable but not silly looking made Fate take an interest in helping.
Running her hands over Nanoha's hips, buttocks and pelvis Fate took a great deal of pleasure in making sure the stretchy fabric covered her wife appropriately. That she also got to tease her lover and hear the slight hitch in her breath when she gave a firm cheek a squeeze was just a bonus. Picking up her lavender coverall she pulled it on and felt a little less exposed as she zipped up the front. Nanoha put on hers also but left it unzipped making it hard not to stare at the valley of her breasts which was now framed by the baby blue fabric.
Creeping down the stairs and slipping on their sandals the couple walked down the deserted beach until they were a reasonable distance from the house where they didn't have to worry about a family member spying on them unaware. Sitting down on the cool sand Fate wrapped herself around Nanoha as they watched the horizon. The deep blue lightened gradually until a bright golden glow shattered the darkness. The sky was then lit up in bright golds and reds as light stretched out turning the retreating night into purples that stole across the water like spilled paint.
Kissing Nanoha's neck when the heavenly orb cleared the sea Fate whispered, "Will you swim with me for a little while?"
Taking off their coveralls and leaving them on the beach with their sandals Nanoha could see Fate send a furtive look at her as she stood up exposed in the morning light. The bright rays reflected off her golden hair and highlighted the pale scars on her body. Nanoha had seen many different defensive responses when put in stressful situations but at that moment it was like her beloved really was stripped bare. The fear of rejection was almost bleeding from her pain filled eyes.
Wrapping her arms around Fate's neck Nanoha pulled her down for a kiss. When she pulled away her wife was breathless and the pain in her eyes was replaced with love. Whispering in her ear Nanoha said, "Follow me my love."
The water was cold at that hour but Nanoha ignored this as she dove into the surf. She had barely made it in shoulder deep when she was caught by her wife. Pulled into the hollow of Fate's body as wandering hands skimmed up and down her sides. When she felt the tie for her top come loose she wondered how it happened as she was currently trying to prevent one hand from entering her bottoms as the other held her in place against Fate.
It was only when Fate bit the back of her neck gently to make her squirm that she realized her devious blonde must have undone the top tie with her teeth. Nanoha made a mental note to never underestimate her wife's ability to strip her naked. As a hand moved up her torso to her exposed breast she moaned at the loving teasing touches. Plucking at each sensitive nipple in turn as she continued to leave biting kisses on her neck and shoulder Fate was slowly driving Nanoha insane. Desperate for released she went from actively preventing Fate's hand from entering her bottoms to trying to find the best angle for her to touch.
Growling at her wife Nanoha turned in her arms for a proper kiss as she hooked one arm around Fate's neck. Pulling her wife's top down she was able to expose pink nipples to the cool air causing them to pebble. Wishing she could get closer but her pregnancy preventing it Nanoha began to whimper at the unfairness of the situation. Suddenly she was being hoisted up and being held in place with one arm against Fate's torso.
Slipping her hand between their bodies and not caring about the difficulty of the angle Fate worked her fingers into Nanoha's needy body. Thrusting into her as Nanoha withered and writhed trying to increase the friction. To further stabilize herself Nanoha clung to Fate's shoulders burying her wife's face in her cleavage as she tried to arch her hips to increase her pleasure.
Suckling like a starving babe on sensitive nipples Fate smirked when she felt Nanoha's core tighten and heard her moans. Looking up she was blessed with Nanoha's eyes meeting her own, the love and desire each felt in the moment reflected back a thousand fold in that intimate glance. It was only when Fate shifted her hand so her lover's clit rubbed against her palm as she continued to thrust deeply searching for her perfect spot that the sensations overwhelmed her. Closing her eyes Nanoha's body went rigid as she cried out Fate's name then exhausted she sagged against her lover.
Holding Nanoha tenderly against her Fate cooed words of love and devotion in her ear as her wife tried to regain her strength. Finally Nanoha found the breath to speak, "I love you. I wish I had the energy to repay the favor right this moment but I feel completely wasted."
Worried she had pushed her wife too hard Fate wiped back wet bangs and pressed a soft kiss to her forehead before offering, "Do you need me to carry you back to the house?"
Giggling at the gentleness of her lover Nanoha leaned into Fate and enjoyed a moment of closeness before yawning, "I can walk back but maybe Fate-chan can help me wash my hair before we take a little nap."
As much as it went against Fate's natural inclinations she helped her wife put her top back on and straighten her bottoms. Nanoha despite being tired took the opportunity to tease Fate's breasts as she helped her wife get presentable.
Hugging in Nanoha, Fate whispered, "You're supposed to be tired. Don't tease me if you're going to leave me unsatisfied."
Kissing Fate's neck Nanoha responded, "I would never leave you unsatisfied," then her hands began to explore the ridges on her wife's back.
As Nanoha continued to kiss and nip at her neck Fate felt all her strength melt away. The tenderness of each touch as it glided across wet skin left her shaking and increasingly aroused. With one arm hooked around Fate's neck Nanoha anchored herself to her wife as she let her left hand tease around the two piece swimsuit that guarded against her attack. It was only when Fate gave a whimpering growl and forced down her top again and placed Nanoha's hand on her breast that things really heated up.
Honestly Nanoha was tired and didn't have as much energy as she would have had with a full night's sleep. The frantic aerobic exercise she had also enjoyed left her on bare minimum when it came to energy but none of that mattered. She had seen the need in Fate's eyes and the creeping worry. Her lover needed to know she was still wanted and desired, even in the unflinching light of day.
One handed and going maddeningly slow Nanoha teased sensitive nipples which she couldn't help suckling when Fate's breath became labored. This freed her hand to delve lower, first across the firm stomach with its pattern of pain then to the core of Fate's being. Pushing aside Fate's bottoms she let her fingers skim across slick skin.
As Nanoha continued her slow torture Fate buried her face in Nanoha's hair. Trying and failing to hold back her moans of pleasure. When the teasing got to be too much she begged, "Please. Oh god, please touch me Nanoha. I need you inside me."
Sliding in Fate's welcoming body was like coming home. Sighing with happiness Nanoha said, "I love you," then began to slowly build her wife up to a screaming orgasm.
When the moment came Fate was sure they'd be caught because she'd never be able to control her voice. Nanoha had played her body like a violin and was now coming to the crescendo. Instead of waking up the whole city with her scream she was kissed and her cries swallowed up by her lover.
Breaking the kiss Nanoha smiled at the dazed look Fate was now sporting. Kissing the bridge of her nose Nanoha teased, "Maybe I should go slow more often. You seem to have liked that a lot."
Catching her breath and scattered thoughts Fate replied, "I like everything you do to me. But if you do it like that too often you'll end up killing me."
Giggling at this Nanoha said, "Maybe now you'll behave yourself and make love to me without the heart attack."
Shaking her head Fate kissed her wife softly before teasing, "Nope. Now I think I'll go slow more often. I want you to feel my love," then in a more serious tone she whispered, "I could feel you inside me. Filling me up, drowning me in your love and I… I'm greedy. I want more…"
Cut off by a kiss Fate let herself melt into it. Seconds or minutes passed as they both poured their love into the passionate embrace. Only breaking it when the heat between them grew to the point of combustion. Panting Nanoha licked her lips before saying, "I like it when you're greedy Fate-chan. Never stop, it makes me feel needed. You're normally so in control that I can't help wanting you to show me more of your needy side."
Smiling softly Fate pointed out, "Surely you're getting tired of dealing with my neediness. I've been nothing but a bundle of nerves since we decided to come on this trip. I've fussed over you and made a complete pain of myself."
Hugging her wife Nanoha sighed, "I like it when you fuss over me. You make me feel like I'm the most important person in the world."
Squeezing Nanoha tight Fate whispered, "You are."
~"~"~"~
Alicia Testarossa woke up feeling very content. Turning her head she saw the reason why, tousled blonde hair and the face of a beatific saint. Letting her hand skim across the long naked expanse of smooth skin and loving the little moaning noise her sleeping fiancee made. Shifting carefully she opened the dresser drawer and found the massaging oil she kept there. Pouring a small amount into the cup of her hand she warmed it between her palms. Moving to straddle her sleeping bedmate she began to rub the oil over her back and buttocks. She especially liked the last bit as she had found she loved the feel of the tender flesh.
When sleepy blue eyes turned to look at her Alicia smiled and increased the pressure of her massage. She loved this woman so much and wanted to spoil her. Fate wasn't the only twitterpated Testarossa. After a few minutes of enjoying the massage Carim rolled over and exposed her naked upper body to the dark eyes of her lover. The way the younger woman swallowed hard as she stared at her breasts made her nipples harden and her core tighten.
Taking Alicia's hands she placed them on her tender peaks before teasing, "You aren't finished with the massage are you? I could use more of your attention here."
Alicia didn't need to be told twice as she began to move her hands. Leaning over she added her mouth to the worship of her beloved's body. Feeling a rush of pride flood through her when Carim arched up into her. Better was the tugging on her hair by those wonderfully skilled hands. Moving lower she decided to give her soon-to-be-bride a real reason to moan. Feasting on the sweet sticky center she lost herself in pleasuring her woman.
When the fluttering of muscles began and the keening cry of release came Alicia felt like she'd just conquered the world. Lifting her head she saw the beautiful flush of satisfaction on Carim's pale cheeks. Licking her lips she said in a throaty voice, "You are so perfect."
Pulling Alicia up to her Carim kissed her, loving the taste of herself on the soft mouth she adored. Flipping them over she took her time teasing Alicia, leaving a number of love bites on her. Leaning into her lover's prone body Carim slid a finger inside the slick canal grinning at the way muscles desperately clenched at her. Whispering into the delicate shell of a perfectly formed ear she encouraged her lover to make more noise. She needed those moans and sighs like she needed air or water.
When Alicia came with a moaning call of her name it brought a satisfied smirk to her lips. Bending to kiss her lover she said, "Good morning Cia."
Holding Carim in place to deepen the kiss before breaking it the devilish twin sighed, "Every morning with you is a good morning."
Rolling her eyes at this Carim pulled away to start dressing for the day saying, "I have no clue which of you Testarossas have the worse lines. You're ridiculous."
Grabbing her lover around the waist and biting playfully at her side which earned her a squeal of surprise from the older woman Alicia grinned up at her, "I will have you know both Fate and I are completely serious. We just say what we feel."
Giving the teasing brat a light smack to the shoulder Carim said, "Maybe Nanoha is right, we don't need children. I have no idea how I will deal with more than one of you if our daughters inherit your cheesy charm."
Pouting at this Alicia said, "I thought you were looking forward to knocking me up."
Looking down into burgundy eyes that hid their own share of pain Carim pet her cheek before responding tenderly, "Do you really want me too? I don't want to rush this and ruin what we have. You are more than enough for me…" then disappointment was visible instantly which made Carim push her lover onto her back before crawling back on top of her. Kissing her softly then down her neck, to her perfect breasts then to the flat of her stomach where she stopped to rub the soft skin and said, "I want you to have my baby so badly. I want everyone to know you are mine and how much I love you. If you want to do this right away or in a few years I can wait. You have so many things you still want to do, there is no rush."
Threading her hands into silky blonde hair Alicia said, "I want to do this immediately so our children can grow up with Fate and Nanoha's. I want our family to grow, for so long is was just me and Fate. I need this Carebear, or do you think I still need to grow up?"
Moving back up to her fiancee's mouth Carim kissed her hard before saying, "You will be a wonderful mother just as you are. When we get back from our honeymoon we can get started, I can't wait to see you pregnant with my baby. You will be so beautiful."
Turning them over so she was on top Alicia smiled happily, nuzzling into the soft skin of Carim's neck she whispered, "I never thought I'd be a mom. Of course I never thought I'd enjoy being dominated by someone either, you turned my world upside down and shook it. Thank you for that, thank you for wanting me, the real me."
Laughing at this Carim ran her hands down Alicia's back as the devious blonde began to suck at her collarbone, "Umm, oh yes, I can tell you are so docile and subservient to me."
Grinning Alicia moved lower as she tried to maintain an innocent tone, "I know, it is terrible how I have lost my head and heart completely to you. I am now mere putty in your hands," as she said the last bit she squeezed tender breasts and began to suckle their pink tips.
Arching up Carim let out a shuddering breath, "Oh God, Cia please…"
Letting go of the perky nipple in her mouth with a pop Alicia smirked, "Yes my mistress? What is your desire?"
Flipping them over the mistress decided she was done with her servant being so willful. Rubbing their bodies together as she kissed her burgundy eyed devil Carim slid a hand between them. Finding her fiancee was ready for her she immediately filled her with two fingers causing a groan of pleasure to reverberate against her lips. Letting her thumb ride the swollen nub that was begging for attention Carim pounded into her naughty lover. When she felt the fluttering of hidden muscles and Alicia's breathing became erratic she stopped all movement which caused a pitiful moan and plea of, "No! Please...Ah I need you. Please Carim."
Shifting so their centers were pressed together Carim began to move slowly making her captive moan, "Faster."
Drawing out the torture the more Alicia begged until she was at the end of her tether Carim finally began to move faster hitting the perfect spot again and again making her lover turn into a moaning mess. When Alicia came the fluttering of muscles and warmth pushed Carim over the edge and she collapsed onto her fiancee. Breathing hard she asked, "Was that dominating enough for you?"
Pulling Carim closer Alicia's voice was rough as she said, "Perfect."
~"~"~"~
Stumbling down the stairs Einhart was yawning sleepily, she prayed her family wasn't awake yet. She really did not want to deal with any of those jokers this early in the morning, a cup of coffee and some toast at the very least was needed before she'd have the fortitude to deal with Alicia. Seeing the kitchen empty she whispered thanks to whatever god had blessed her. Moving around quietly she made breakfast for both herself and Vivio. The blonde was still curled in a ball under their blanket but would be appreciative when she returned with food.
The sound of the front door opening made her leave the counter where she had a stack of toast growing along with the jar of nutella. Poking just the bare minimum of her head out she saw to her surprise Fate in a coverall. Causing her eyebrows to shoot up as she parsed out what that meant, considering Nanoha's own baby blue coverall was half unzipped and was showing her pink bikini that was haphazardly tied she had to assume Fate was wearing a swimsuit. The teen was having problems concentrating with the amount of skin on display from her girlfriend's mother, thankfully Nanoha's outfit still covered what was important, though it made her wonder what Vivio would look like pregnant.
Ducking back into the kitchen Einhart slapped her cheeks. 'No, bad thoughts. We are far too young to be thinking about stuff like that.'
Returning to the counter she finished breakfast but the strange thoughts of some future day where Vivio was pregnant stayed in her head. Opening the door to their room she could see her blonde bundle of trouble had migrated to her side of the bed and wrapped herself around her pillow. Setting down the tray with their food Einhart moved closer to the bed. Touching her cheek Einhart wondered if she'd be the person this beautiful being married and had children with. The deep ache that came with the uncertainty made her pledge to never give Vivio a reason to leave her, she wanted to be the only one to touch this wonderful woman.
Mismatched eyes fluttered open to see the serious look in stormy orbs, yawning the blonde reached out to her girlfriend to pull her down. The squeak of dismay Einhart made when she was toppled over by the needy grip made Vivio giggle, "Umm, it's too early for you to be making such faces. Come back to bed."
Trying her best not to crush the girl who was now squirming under her and apparently trying to burrow her way into a more precarious position Einhart exclaimed, "Vi! I'm going to squish you, you gotta let me go."
Instead of being released Einhart found herself being gripped tighter and pulled down so her body was pressing against the warm form beneath her as soft lips began kissing her neck. A voice that was so seductive it made her brain melt spoke in her ear, "I want to feel you against me. I love waking up and finding you next to me."
The feeling of gentle hands slipping into her shirt to run up and down her back as those devilish lips sucked on her neck made her groan. It was only when she gave up fighting to hold herself up and actually rested her weight on Vivio that the girl beneath her stopped teasing her but instead rolled them over. Blonde hair spilled around her and blocked out the room leaving her with only the view of her girlfriend's smiling face.
Curious Vivio asked, "So what had you so serious this morning?"
Blushing at being reminded of her foolishness Einhart wiggled a little in a pathetic attempt to escape or distract. This only earned her a raised eyebrow and the feeling of Vivio's hips pressing down to pin her to the bed. Sneaky hands moved to Einhart's sides as the blonde said, "Spill it Ein-chan or I will tickle it out of you."
Grabbing the threatening hands EInhart said, "That won't be necessary. I… I was just thinking of something silly. I saw Fate and Nanoha come back in from having a swim when I was downstairs. You mom makes Fate really happy and soon the baby will be born. It made me think about you."
Threading their fingers together Vivio urged her girlfriend on when she seemed to run out of words, "What about me Ein?"
Looking over her captor Einhart felt her heart begin to ache again, "I… um… well… I couldn't help thinking about how you'd look pregnant. I know we are way too young for that but in five or ten years… I can't help wondering…umph!"
Vivio shut her girlfriend's mouth with a hard kiss then sat back up to say, "We are young but I can tell you right now the only person I see myself having a family with is YOU. I love you Ein. So before you start angsting again you better believe I plan on getting you pregnant one day."
Blushing hard at this Einhart gaped at her girlfriend. This made Vivio giggle as she poked Einhart's cheek, "If you want we can take turns but understand one thing, you will carry my baby someday," there was a possessive look to her jewel-like eyes which made her lover realize this was no joke.
Running her hands up smooth thighs Einhart said breathlessly, "Okay. I'll look forward to it."
Now it was Vivio's turn to blush, she'd expected her bashful girlfriend to bluster and squirm but instead she was now looking at her with hopeful expectation. Looking down the long length of Einhart's body she couldn't help thinking about what she'd look like rounded with life. Collapsing to hide her face against her lover's shoulder Vivio was beginning to feel overwhelmed by all her emotions.
Smirking at this response Einhart hugged her close and teased, "First though, you will have to marry me. I won't let you make me a scarlet woman."
Vivio immediately began smacking her girlfriend's arm as she muttered, "Baka Einhart!"
Kissing her attacker's temple Einhart said, "Yeah, but I'm your idiot."
Shifting so they were curled together on their sides but still pressed close they laid quietly for a few moments enjoying the silence. It was the smell of coffee though that had the blonde girl moving again.
Wiggling like a happy puppy she looked at her girlfriend and asked, "Did you bring me a cup of coffee or is that yours?"
The cuteness was overwhelming, immediately Einhart slid out of bed and brought the tray to the girl. Luckily the drinks were still warm so they could enjoy the small meal together. Rinsing down the last bite of nutella toast with a gulp of coffee Vivio set her cup on the tray then moved it to her side table. At the corner of Einhart's mouth was a small smudge of nutella and she planned on having that as dessert. With mock stealthiness she moved to pounce on her prey. Einhart clearly saw what she was doing but found she couldn't do anything to prevent the onslaught.
With a devious smile the girl toppled her girlfriend once again but this time Vivio just wanted to play with Einhart. Moving in she first kissed at the chocolatey smudge before darting out her tongue to clean it. Embarrassed by the feeling of being licked clean by her gloating girlfriend Einhart tried to wipe her mouth with her hand. She was too late, the baby devil had already gotten her treat. Giggling Vivio licked at her again just for the pure fun of it and the squeaking noise her victim made urged her to do it again. Soon the pair was tumbling across the bed as they tickled and licked at each other.
The sound of the door opening was lost in the noise of their game but the incredibly "loud" noise of a camera capturing the scene made them both turn their head. Standing in the doorway was Dearche who was making it worse every second that passed by engaging the shutter of her camera over and over. Moving the camera into different and sometimes outrageous angles as she tried to get a little more skin exposed. Normally it'd be Einhart moving like a lightning bolt to deal with such nonsense. Instead it was Vivio and Dearche was about to learn why that was the worse case scenario for her.
Blonde hair tousled, dressed in only a tank top and a pair of boy shorts Vivio looked like most teenage boys' wet dream. At that moment though she was proving to be Dearch's worst nightmare as she carefully took hold of the camera in one hand and pointed with the other. Her voice was strangely calm but intimidating, "I'm going to have to take this from you for a bit. You seem to have taken some pictures that I don't appreciate. Don't worry, I won't hurt your camera. In the future though Dearche I would point out that it is only polite to knock before entering someone's room and asking before taking pictures."
In the hall witnessing this were the two other sisters, Levi and Stern both could sense the menacing aura coming off the blonde and decided their sister could deal with this herself began backing away. The movement had Vivio turning to see the pair, tilting her head she studied them for a moment then said, "Do me a favor, keep your sister under control. I would really hate to give Fate a reason to get upset."
Normally Levi would find girls attractive when they were angry, teasing about how hot they looked. Vivio looked hot alright, like a pissed off devil with the fires of hell blazing behind her. Swallowing hard she nodded her acceptance of the demonic girl's request and was thankful when Stern proved to be the brave one and grabbed Dearche by the collar and dragged her away. The trio nearly fell over themselves to escape the wrath of the blonde Takamachi devil.
Walking back into her room with the camera Vivio shut the door with a purposeful click and ignoring house rules locked it. She had zero interest in letting her girlfriend be ogled by the trio. While Levi might have a crush on her that didn't stop the idiot from taking appreciative looks at Einhart whenever an opportunity presented itself. That wandering eye would have been the number one reason why she'd never date the girl if she wasn't with Einhart. Her girlfriend might know other girls were attractive but she didn't actively drool over them in her presence.
Sitting up on the bed staring at her in awe was Einhart, the way she was breathing harder from excitement made her tank stretch fetchingly across her chest highlighting the hardening peaks. Violet and blue were now darker than normal adding to the evidence that her girlfriend was now aroused from her little alpha display. Placing the camera on the dresser Vivio then made her way over to the bed hips wiggling exaggeratedly which caused her entranced audience to take a deep breath to try and calm herself. Crawling up the bed and putting her cleavage on full display she found the power to tease Einhart thrilling.
When she finally reached the girl she hovered so her lips were just centimeters from the pair begging for contact. Brushing back a messy lock of Einhart's hair she whispered, "Do you like it when I'm territorial? You should know I've been holding back, there have been so many times I've wanted to wrap you in my arms and scream, 'MINE.'"
With her last word Vivio found Einhart's patience snap and they were kissing again. Her normally calm and in control girlfriend grabbing her hands and placing them under her shirt. Shocked by this but not about to let a chance pass her by Vivio let her hands explore the soft skin of Einhart's stomach before venturing higher to her rib cage. Her timidity earned her a growl, then a nip to her bottom lip as her hands were forced higher.
Breathlessly Einhart said, "I love it when you get territorial. It makes me want you to touch me. I want you to mark me, please Vi."
Vivio suddenly realized how they went from playful teasing to Einhart becoming her willing sex slave. Her normally ultra confident girlfriend really was a bottom and liked it when she let her inner intimidating dominant side out to play. She had originally thought Einhart would be the top in their relationship, she'd just need some time to get over her shyness but eventually she'd take her rightful place on top. It was the reason why she'd let Einhart set the pace of their relationship since she seemed to be the natural lead. Why she thought Einhart would be a top in the first place was laughable, both Alicia and Fate were bottoms. Power bottoms sometimes but without their partner's acceptance they both became insecure messes. Fate shut down and Alicia overcompensated with outrageous behavior.
Pulling off Einhart's shirt she bent her head to the girl's breast, finding the perfect spot that'd be hidden when she wore her swimsuit, she pressed her lips to the delicate skin. Leaving a raspberry like mark on the tender skin before saying, "Mine."
The groaning response of, "Jeezus Vi, you are going to be the death of me. How am I supposed to control myself when you tease like that?"
Smirking at her lust dazed girlfriend Vivio said, "I've decided, you're mine. When we go on our mini-vacation I'm going to make sure every inch of you understands that."
Gulping at that statement Einhart found she liked the idea of letting Vivio lead enticing. There were so many things she wanted to do but lacked the bravery to push for. If there was one thing Vivio had in spades it was bravery. She went after what she wanted with single minded determination just like her mom.
Pulling her blonde lover down for a kiss Einhart whispered in anticipation, "I look forward to it," then closed the gap.
~"~"~"~
Showered and dressed for the day Fate and Nanoha came downstairs where huddled around the table the trio of sisters were still trying to recover from their brush with the devil. Seeing Nanoha all three shrunk down more as they tried to avoid gaining the White Devil's attention. Seeing this Fate wondered what the sisters had done to upset her angelic wife. Pouring out a cup of decaffeinated coffee for Nanoha and herself they took a seat across from the siblings.
Sipping at her fake coffee and mentally counting down the days until Nanoha could have caffeine again which would in turn mean she could too Fate wondered who would crack first. Stern looked from Nanoha to Dearche her eyes fearful and lips twitching as if she wanted to say something. Nanoha was equally interested in what the girls were hiding, obviously they did or saw something that they shouldn't have and were now working their way towards admitting their sins.
Just before the eldest was about to snap Alicia entered the kitchen with a loud, "GOOD MORNING FAMILY!"
Groaning at the loud noise Dearche turned to the older twin and said, "Christ you are annoying in the morning! Don't you know how to greet people in a normal tone?"
Raising an eyebrow at this the blonde came over and ruffling the grumpy girl's hair said, "Awww did someone bite off more than she can chew? Poor widdle baby. Now you know it's not smart to play with devil."
This comment immediately caught Fate's attention and now Dearche was on the receiving end of two pairs of disconcerting red eyes. When Fate leaned in across the table the silver haired girl cracked, "I...I went into Vivio and Einhart's room and took pictures of them."
The look of disapproval in Fate's eyes hurt while Alicia's cackle rubbed salt in her wounds. The geeky twin said, "Baby White Devil nearly had these three needing a change of pants. I swear I haven't seen anything so awe inspiring since Fate terrorized a group of men flirting with me. I must say NanoFate is doing a wonderful job creating a superweapon of terror."
Glaring at her sister-in-law Nanoha said, "If you saw this why didn't you intervene?"
Squishing Dearche's cheeks as she made kissy faces at her Alicia replied comically, "Because this little rascal needed to be put in her place. You don't mess with the bull unless you are willing to deal with the horns. She has been baiting the girls ever since we got here, trying to see how far she can push them. My darling Einhart is too much of a lady to ever initiated a fight, though she has the skills to end it in her favor, which is why this idiot has been careful not to get physical with them. So our resident lovebugs have been doing their best to ignore this gnat's worst behavior in hopes of maintaining the peace. This morning she crossed the line."
Turning to look at the two other sisters Alicia gave them a wicked smile, "All the while you two have been letting her get away with it. Levi has been enjoying the show and ogling the girls every chance she gets. But it's you Stern that I don't understand… Why are you letting her do this?"
Flushing guiltily Stern tried to get up but Carim, who had followed Alicia in silently, placed her hands on her shoulders and pressed her back into her chair. Eyes darting everywhere trying to find an escape she made the mistake of looking at Fate and the woman's whole stance told her it was time to spill the beans. Then to make matters worse her father entered the kitchen, he instantly sensed the seriousness of the mood and that his children were in the center of it.
Norbert Starks was a quiet laid back man but when his children caused trouble he was the first one in line to make sure they paid their dues. Adding to the pressure to speak Norbert said, "I don't know what's going on here but if you did something it's best you own up now before things get out of hand."
Looking down at her hands Stern clenched them together before she said, "It was just Dearche being silly, I didn't see any harm in it."
"Bullshit. Try again, and let's not drag this out," Alicia said in a tone that was no longer jokey.
Biting her lip Stern shuddered then said quietly, "I was jealous…"
That shocked most everyone, Stern had not shown any interest in either younger girl from day one so how could she be jealous. The muttering was silenced by Fate saying, "Explain yourself."
Hunching down more in her seat Stern mumbled, "I was just you know… they annoyed me… it was like they were flaunting their relationship. If they weren't so flashy about it then Dearche wouldn't have targeted them."
Rubbing his hands over his thinning pate Norbert sighed, "Christ, Stern you know better. Dearche has always pushed the limits and counts on you to keep her from going too far. Maybe it's wrong of her to use you as her conscience but she is so reckless otherwise. I just don't know what to do with you girls."
Fate was angry, she trusted the Starks and now she learned they had been targeting her daughters. Maybe it was harmless fun but if Dearche managed to get a photo of the girls in an inappropriate situation or a state of undress and it made it online it could ruin their lives. What could be seen as a joke between friends and family could be misconstrued or used by strangers for nefarious means. The only reason she wasn't calling for the whole family to be ejected from the house was she understood where this behavior was coming from.
Standing up she said, "Girls, I think it's time we took a walk."
Everyone stared worriedly at the tense blonde woman but no one dared naysay her suggestion. The trio stood up and followed the stiffly walking figure. They were back on the beach which helped Fate calm down again thinking about Nanoha and their early morning excursion.
Stopping in front of the water she took a deep breath then said, "You girls don't know much about my life, outside what your parents told you and local gossip. I wonder if Alicia and I have been bad examples for you and what that means for our future children. Our popping in and out of your lives must have been confusing, especially with my change in behavior."
The girls shifted nervously, not knowing what to say or if they were even expected to say something. Then the imposing blonde turned to look at each of them in turn as she said, "I truly love each of you as family. If I didn't, at this very moment I would be telling your father to pack your bags and to leave."
Hearing this made Dearche burst into tears and collapse onto the sandy ground. Levi's own lip was now trembling as she considered her own behavior. Stern though stood firm, as if she could somehow be vindicated. Seeing this Fate sighed, "Jealousy is a dangerous thing Stern. The fact that you recognized the feeling and yet fed it and gave it free rein worries me. I too had to face down that feeling on many occasions growing up. How could I not with Alicia as my Twin Sister? She is everything I should have been, her love affairs, her ability to converse with others so easily, her fearlessness. There were so many times I felt that darkness try and consume me, it wanted me to hate her, to hurt her. I suspect she'd have accepted my anger and would have let me destroy us both."
The frown on Stern's face at least showed the girl was thinking about her words as the younger sisters both knelt together sniffling back their tears trying to listen. Licking her lips Fate tried to best explain herself, "I see a lot of myself in you Stern. You take care of others and put them ahead of you without expectation of reward or thanks. Which is wrong, you should be thanked, especially by your family. The fact that both your younger sisters are so spoiled and depend so heavily on you is not a good thing. Just as the fact that you could be made jealous by seeing two teens in love makes me wonder how little you really live for yourself. I am the last person in the world to point fingers at people for unhealthy behavior. So I will instead tell you what I felt at your age."
Kneeling down to pick up a shell Fate played with it as she spoke, "I… I was scared. Terrified actually. I was abused during those formative years when little girls are usually dressing up and giggling over their dream wedding to prince charming. Every stage of my life since then has been filled with fear for me. Even my happiness now is tinged with it as I fear for the future. That's the thing though, everyone lives in fear to greater or lesser extent. Jealously is born from fear, the fear of rejection and the fear of being found insufficient."
Closing her eyes and just feeling the sea breeze for a moment Fate took a deep breath before releasing it, "Are you in love with someone Stern?"
A few short months ago the girl might have claimed she was in love with the blonde artist but since the wedding things had changed. The object of her affection was very different from Fate personality-wise but had the same gentle air. Of course the woman was someone who probably didn't even know she was alive. Having only exchanged a dozen words at most and since their first meeting she'd become a stalker of sorts. The woman was so close and yet would always be out of reach.
Avoiding answering was an answer in and of itself. Dearche looked up at her sister and in a tone of voice devoid of teasing said, "It's that eyepatch woman, isn't it? You keep going to the village and spend all that time at the coffee shop so you can watch her. And don't say you go because it's a quiet place to read, you spend more time studying that woman's patterns than anything else ever since you met at the wedding."
This was enough of a clue to discover who Stern was crushing on, thinking about the woman she had to admit she could be intimidating for someone so small. She'd also be an unlikely candidate for some of the more lovey-dovey behavior the teens had been engaging in. Stern was still young and might want to enjoy the more flashy displays of woman in question was the last person who'd do anything childish or silly in public so that barred half the things Einhart was willing, able and complicit in doing all for Vivio's entertainment. So not only was Stern pinning over an older woman but she was bitter over the fact that even if they got together she'd never have the same romance as the teens in front of her.
Wanting to have a more serious conversation with the stubborn girl Fate said, "Dearche, Levin, we will discuss your behavior in detail later. For now, go inside and have breakfast. Leave my daughters alone in the meantime."
None of the sisters failed to notice Fate called both teens her daughter, which made Dearche wince since she knew how protective she could be. As the figures disappeared Fate took hold of Stern's hand and lead her farther away from the house. When they got to the rocky outcrop she pushed the girl towards a boulder to sit down. Perching on one nearby Fate wondered if she stayed silent what the young woman would say.
Focusing her eyes on the tide she waited and after three minutes which felt like an eternity Stern finally said, "Why is life so fucked up?"
This was a shocker, Stern never swore but the exasperation in her voice told of her frustration. Deciding to answer the real question Fate said, "You know falling in love is the easy part, it's being in love and maintaining it that is the real hard part. Going into a relationship with false expectations is the best way to ruin things. While I admit your heart's choice can be… hmm serious, she isn't as ridge as you might think. She comes from a large family and I've seen them be quite loving to each other. You might not get the same youthful reckless love affair as you would if you dated someone your own age or younger but if you do somehow capture her heart you will never have to worry about being in a loveless relationship."
Picking at the algae on the stone Stern asked, "How do you know her?"
Sighing Fate said, "We have an unusual acquaintanceship, I hardly know her but as a silent partner in her business I tend to get invited to events, reciprocating that generousness for the wedding was expected. I've exchanges a handful of words with her over the years, nothing of any importance."
Chewing on her lip Stern tasted blood before she finally asked, "Do you know if she even likes women? Would I even have a chance?"
Standing up and moving to sit beside the girl Fate took her hand before answering with a question of her own, "How well do you know her?"
Shrugging Stern said, "I talked to her a bit at the wedding. She was really intelligent and funny. Unlike that friend of Nanoha's Vita who gets all fussy over her height she was really cool about me trying to prevent her getting a drink since I thought she was underage."
Fate laughed a little at this and her smile lingered as she said, "Ah yes that does sound like her. She has a very healthy outlook on life, far better than mine. According to her parents she lost her eye when she was still a teen but never once let it stop her from reaching her objectives. Of all the damaged women I've met she has the best sense of humor about her injuries."
Frowning at this wording Stern squeezed Fate's hand hard as she said, "She isn't damaged. I've watched her, she is amazing."
Nodding her head at this correction Fate replied, "From what Alicia has been able to determine she is bisexual but seems to lean towards women."
Horrified that Alicia might have had something to do with her crush Stern asked, "Um how close were they?"
Shaking the hand in her own Fate said with a smirk, "Not that close. Every time they crossed paths Cinque always had a partner. I don't know if that was on purpose or just luck on her part but it was that fact that kept Alicia from pursuing her. Honestly I'm glad Cinque and Alicia never did have an affair, it would have made my business dealings with her complicated. That woman takes her relationships seriously and it could have gotten ugly."
Letting out a long breath of relief Stern said, "I really like her but the idea of dating one of Alicia's exes is pretty unnerving. I am a complete noob when it comes to relationships and um stuff, how could I compete with that experience?"
Rolling her eyes at this concern Fate said, "Oh I'm sure it wouldn't be all that hard. Just refrain from using cheesy pickup lines and being absolutely ridiculous with so-called romantic gestures. As for the other thing, if it gets to that point all I can say is practice makes perfect. Don't be afraid to ask your partner what they like or to speak your own mind. In the end you can't really fail unless you stop caring."
Blushing but deciding since Fate brought it up it was okay to ask, "Um is that how it went with you?"
Giving the young woman a penetrating stare for a long moment Fate answered, "Let's just say communication is something Nanoha and I concentrate a lot of attention on, it's vital to a healthy relationship. In and out of the bedroom."
Accepting that deflection Stern thought about the situation then sighed, "Honestly Fate, I'm tired of being Levin and Dearche's keeper. Then those girls kept flaunting their lovey-dovey behavior and it was like salt in a wound. When you add in my stress over Cinque, well I just gave up trying to rein them in. Everyone has what I want but there is no hope for me finding love. So I let Dearche act like a monster just so I could get a small measure of vicarious pleasure from ruining their happiness."
Looking out over the water Fate asked, "Have you ever thought about moving out? Getting a job in town away from the Retreat and your family. Until your sisters learn how to live without you cleaning up all their messes they won't ever grow up. I was being serious earlier Stern, you deserve to be appreciated for what you do. You're not your mom, you don't have to try and fill that role for anyone. I urge you not to try, she died of a heart attack from all the stress. Before you attempt to pursue a relationship with someone else I recommend learning who you are without your family smothering you."
Shaking her head at this and getting up Stern said, "Impossible, I...I"
Rising also Fate poked the girl's cheek as she said, "Nothing is impossible. I can help you with this. I can't force you to live your life but I can support whatever decisions you make."
Seeing the real care and concern in Fate's burgundy eyes Stern burst into tears. She couldn't help thinking she really didn't deserve this kindness as she felt Fate's arms close around her. It was so strange to accept comfort from the older woman who had always been in her eyes so much more fragile and weak than herself. The fact that Fate was now capable of reaching out to others to do so was all down to Nanoha's support. The whole situation seemed to reinforce the knowledge that she wasn't as strong as she made herself out to be, she really was just a child after all just like Fate had pointed out.
The sound of a throat clearing had the pair look over and Stern saw Nanoha standing there with a concerned look on her face. It wasn't jealousy or distrust but actual concern for her, not Fate, but the person who'd been such a brat and pain to her. Then the woman came over, she pet her short hair and asked gently, "Are you okay now dear?"
Hanging her head she answered, "I'm so sorry for everything. I..I…"
A finger pressed to her lips to shush her and Nanoha said, "Honey, I know it's hard to accept help. Even harder to admit you need it. You've lived your whole life in a small bubble concerned with your family's happiness. Now is the time for you to live your own life. Let Fate-chan help you."
Tears hanging to her dark lashes Stern said in a choked up voice, "I don't deserve…"
Gripping the girl's head Nanoha knocked their foreheads together which made her wince. In a bossy tone Stern was sure Fate adored the older woman said, "This isn't about deserving help or not. You are Fate-chan's family. Now then, let's talk about what we can do."
The adoring look Fate gave Nanoha from behind Stern made it well worth it. The last thing she wanted to do was make her wife choose between the people she loved. Fate deserved to have each and every one of them in her life. If helping to ensure their happiness added to Fate's then that was all their justification Nanoha would ever need to lend a hand.
