Family

Chapter 51: Reopening, Closer, The Future He Saw

Author's note: Previously on Family, Wufei and Fate found Rebecca hesitating to enter her boyfriend's apartment. With their help, she is able to take back her belongings. Fate teaches Rebecca how to make Chinese dumplings. Rebecca thanked Wufei for his help by making him a bento for lunch. Fate is filming Blue Marine Pub's new commercials since the pub has been renovated after the Fear Gas incident. Heero starred in the commercials for the first time with her. He then showed her the commercials to get her opinion on what needs to be improved on.

This chapter will be broken down into shorter chapters to focus on different sub stories.

Thank you for reading this story and I hope that you will continue to support it. Please read and review, NO FLAMERS! Pairing: HeeroXOC


Chapter 51.1: Reopening

After Colony 203, 16th December

Colony L1, Blue Marine Pub

Night time, 6pm

Fate De Camden has been here at Blue Marine Pub since 4pm. This was an important day as it was the Reopening Night for Blue Marine Pub after major renovations has been completed. Her staff were here early to set up and do sound test. She also finished her mike test before she rehearsed her dance with her dancers on the new stage. She was satisfied hence she did her makeup and hair before she was dressed in a new designer formal gown. Fate was watching everyone prepare for this important night when Heero came into the pub dressed formally in a black three-piece suit. He seemed busy as he immediately summoned all staff first. He gave them a speech to get their act together as it was re-opening night. After that he dismissed them and spoke to the manager to make sure everything was prepared as planned. Then he came over to find her. She kissed him on the cheek in greeting and he gave her a brief embrace. It's already public knowledge that they are a couple but sometimes she knows that Heero still likes to keep their public display of affections to a minimum.

"Are you ready?" He asked.

"Yes." She told him.

He nodded and left to check on the production crew and talked with the Emcees for the night. The pub is expected to be packed to the brim tonight and many members of the high society are expected to turn up. The media was invited as well hence Heero is making sure that everything was prepared well. After all checks went smoothly, Fate was asked to wait in a small back room under the staircase. The grand staircase blocked it from view hence she didn't even know it existed. She waited there and chats with her dancers. Kimberly was also with her, making sure that everything was alright. Heero came over and asked for her.

"Yes?" She asked coming out of the room.

"I would like you to cut the ribbon with me." Heero said.

Fate didn't hide her surprise.

"Are you sure?" She asked.

Heero nodded and with that she went back to inform Kimberly. Her makeup and hair stylist came forward to make sure she's fully ready as she will be cutting the ribbon with Heero first. She waited in her star trailer for the ribbon cutting ceremony. Soon it was night time, one Emcee was hosting outside the pub near its main doors. Fate saw that there were a lot of people waiting in queue and a lot of media personnel were around tonight. Heero came to fetch her and she removed her coat to reveal her formal gown. Heero gave her a small smile after he gave her the once over. Taking his hand, they walked towards the entrance of Blue Marine Pub together. Heero had hired a lot of security for tonight to make sure that the location was secured. The security personnel let them in, and they approached the entrance. The Emcee announced their presence and the crowd started cheering.

Fate smiled happily and waved at the crowd which earned screams and more cheers. The Emcee interviewed her for a short while before Heero was given the microphone. He gave a short speech before they were going to cut the red ribbon. The manager of the pub also came out to cut the ribbon with them. They posed for the cameras and Fate was already too used to the countless camera flashes. With a wide smile on Fate's face, the three of them cut the red ribbon at the same time. With the ribbons and scissors carried away by a waitress, Heero and Fate thanked everyone for coming today. Heero left it to the manager while he escorted Fate into the pub first. With that Blue Marine Pub has officially re-opened, welcoming their customers again after a long hiatus. Fate went to the backroom to wait for her turn to perform on the stage while Heero will be busy overseeing tonight's operations and greeting important guests.


A while later,

Fate was on the stage singing some of her newest songs. She started with more jazz like songs before moving to an emotional song. She saw that Heero was on the second floor, talking to his siblings who came to support the grand re-opening. Heero moved to find his best friends who congratulated him, and they had a toast together. Fate reached the bridge of the emotional song where she gave it her all, proving that she has powerful vocals. The customers and VIPs were all impressed and she received a huge round of applause after that song. Fate smiled and thanked everyone.

"This next song is dedicated to the CEO of SilverWings, Mr. Heero Wingate." Fate said as she was on stage.

She nodded her head and a spot light shined on Heero who left the table with his friends to approach the metal railings on the second floor, so that everyone on the first floor can see him.

"Thank you for your hard work in managing SilverWings. We wish that Blue Marine Pub's business will continue to soar." Fate said.

Heero merely nodded while everyone gave him a huge round of applause. Then Fate smiled and sang one of her old songs, one she wrote when she's already Heero's girlfriend. Heero gave her a smile before he left to thank the other VIP guests for turning up tonight.

After that song, Fate goes off the stage for a short break. The Emcees took over and started announcing the next performance which was put up by Fate's dancers. Fate immediately returned to the backroom. She stripped off her formal gown and revealed a short chiffon dress underneath it. She drank some water and waited for her makeup artist to do some touch up on her. Her hairstylist immediately came forward to secure her hair down as she will be dancing later, it won't be wise to have her hair flying around. She then waited for her turn to go on the stage again. Soon it was her turn, and she went up on the stage again.

"This is a new song in my newest album, please support the new album!" She called out.

The band started playing and then she sang and danced fast to the music along with her dancers. Heero was trying not to frown from his position on the second floor. It was the same song as her music video hence she was dancing the same dance routine. Everyone's eyes were on her as she performed. Heero can tell that she has improved a lot in dancing since she started out as a singer. The dance is seductive and sexy but Heero can tell that the customers are enjoying the performance. Fate finished her dance and breathed hard as if to catch her breath. Then she smiled when everyone broke into a huge round of applause. She thanked everyone for their support before taking a bow with her dancers. Then they left the stage while the Emcees thanked her again before announcing the next performer.

Fate returned to the back room and freshen up before she went to the second floor to find Heero. Everyone complimented her for her singing and dancing. She smiled happily and thanked them for their compliments. She spotted Heero talking to his best friends and immediately went over.

"Heero." She called out.

Heero turned and smiled at her. She would have flown into his arms, but she is aware that they were in public hence she held back.

"You did well, Fate." Heero said, praising her.

He seldom compliments her but this time it sets her heart racing and she smiled warmly at him in return. Then Heero introduced someone to her. A man with short, light brown hair and a pair of ash grey eyes stepped forward. Fate recognised him as she met him in St. Annecy before. He was always with Heero back then as well.

"This is Lionel McKnight, my second in command." Heero introduced.

She finally meets Lionel, the man that Heero trusted. Lionel smiled at her while Fate smiled back.

"We have met before." Lionel said.

"Yes, but not officially introduced before." Fate said.

"Miss Camden, it's a pleasure to meet you." Lionel said, extending his hand for a handshake.

"Thank you for looking out for Heero all these times." Fate said as she shook his hand.

"No, he's the one looking after me." Lionel said as they released each other's hand.

"Lionel will be the man in-charge should anything happen to me. I think it's wise to you know him so that you will know who to contact in times of emergencies." Heero said.

"Oh." Fate said softly.

Heero was signalled away hence he left them alone. Fate picked up a glass of champagne from a nearby waiter and started chatting with Lionel. He was quite a huge fan of her music, so they did talk about her music for a while.

"I'm glad that you two are happy together." Lionel said suddenly.

"What do you mean?" She asked softly.

"That time when I met you, the two of you seem to be facing some difficulties of your own. But I'm glad it worked out." Lionel said with a smile.

Fate smiled in return as she watched Heero talking to a group of VIP guests.

"Why do you want to work for him? I know that Heero can be hard to work with at times." Fate asked.

"Yeah, he's too much of a perfectionist, workaholic, crazy strict and too smart for his own good." Lionel said.

Fate blinked in slight surprise, was he insulting or complimenting Heero?

"But I respect him. He's the kind of man who will do whatever it takes to make sure that the missions get done. That people are saved, and troubles are resolved." Lionel said.

Fate smiled as it was clear that Lionel respects Heero a lot.

"Heero doesn't let many people into his life, but I'm glad that he lets you in." Fate said.

Lionel looked surprised to hear that.

"Please continue to look after him, especially when I can't be there to support him." Fate said.

Their eyes met and Lionel was surprised at the determination in her eyes. Surely, she knows of the dangers that Heero has to go through but is unable to be by his side to support him for they were dealing with classified information. It's clear that she really loves Heero. Lionel sighed loudly instead.

"Sometimes I don't understand how such a rigid person can ever land such a beautiful woman who happens to be a major superstar." Lionel said, exaggerating his actions.

Fate laughed at his words.

"Even I have no idea." Fate joked.

"Oh, does that mean I still stand a chance?" Lionel asked, winking at her.

Fate laughed gently at his attempt to flirt with her.

"I'm afraid I'm quite taken." Fate said.

"Ah, but they say a man doesn't give up until the ring is on the wedding finger." Lionel said.

"After that they will claim that there's always divorce papers even if there's a ring." Fate said with a smile.

"True, men simply have a too huge appetite." Lionel said, nodding his head in serious agreement.

"More like they don't know when to stop." Fate said.

Both of them smiled at each other jokingly. But Fate's smile faded when she noticed Heero's eyes on her.

"We better stop, I don't want Heero to make your life difficult at work." Fate said softly.

Lionel laughed instead.

"Don't worry about me. Besides, I would like to see the jealous side of my boss too." Lionel said.

Fate merely smiled and turned just as Heero came over to join them.

"You two seem to be getting along." Heero remarked.

"Quite well actually." Lionel said as he smiled at Fate.

Fate merely smiled before Heero excused them from Lionel and turned her away towards his family members. He didn't talk about it, but Fate likes this possessive side of his.


The reopening party was a success and as the night continued, more and more people left. Heero thanked his family and friends for supporting the reopening. Then he turned to Fate and said that they can finally leave. He gave a few instructions to the manager and left with Fate on his arm. They walked to where he had parked his car.

"You have been busy tonight." Fate said.

"I'm glad it's over. The pub is a success so far." Heero said.

"You seem relieved." Fate said.

"I am." Heero admits.

Fate smiled and they got into his sports car.

"I will send…"

Heero trailed off the instant Fate leaned over and kissed him on his lips. It was a gentle kiss and Fate smiled at him when she broke their kiss. He stared at her in silence before breaking out into a small smile. He leaned over and claimed her lips. Fate wrapped her arms around his shoulder as they deepened the kiss, their tongues tangling with each other's. It was quite a rough kiss, but she didn't mind. She sighed as he finally drew back from the kiss. Their eyes met and she stroke his cheek softly.

"I will send you home." Heero said.

She nodded her head and released her hold on him. She puts on her seatbelt while Heero started the car's engine.

"I still don't approve of your dance." He said softly.

"But everyone liked it." She pointed out.

"Your dress is too short." He muttered.

Fate merely smiled, choosing not to fight over these small things with Heero as he drove down the road.

"Lionel's nice." She said, changing the topic.

"He's a big fan of yours." Heero said.

"I know, we talked about my music. But I'm glad I saw your jealous side again." Fate said.

"I wasn't…" He denied.

Fate merely smiled but chose not to say anything. The silence between them continued for a while until Heero stopped the car at a red traffic light. He turned to look at her.

"I didn't like how everyone was staring at you." He admits.

She smiled as he was being honest with her feelings.

"No matter how much they stare at me doesn't change the fact that I'm yours." She said.

"I know, I just…"

She silenced him by pressing a finger to his lips.

"I know how you feel." She whispered and kissed him on the cheek as the traffic light has turned green.

Heero did send her back to Moonstone Mansion but he came out to open the passenger's door for her.

"Good night, I will see you around." She told him.

He swept her into his arms and kissed her again. Fate was surprised but returned his kisses in the same passion that matched his. Her body felt hot as their kiss continued. She moaned against him and felt his arm tighten around her waist, pushing her even closer to him. They continued kissing for a while before he broke their kiss. The passion was clear in his eyes as he looked at her. She had seen him look at her like this before. He caressed her cheek and sighed.

"You shouldn't look at me like that." He whispered.

"Like what?" She questioned.

"That you want so much more than just kisses." He said, his hand trailing from her cheek.

He touched her lower lip with his finger gently. She felt him lower his other hand to her hip. Fate sighed as if in anticipation of his touch and she saw the flare of heat in his eyes. He lowered it even more until he was caressing her on her thigh. His hand felt warm on her skin and she merely gasped as he kissed her again. It felt so good to be so close to him, to have him touching her like this. But he broke their kiss and stepped back from her, putting distance between them. Her thigh still felt warm even though his hand was no longer on it. Fate continued to stare at him while he took in a deep breath. His emotionless mask was back on, his eyes as emotionless as ever.

"I will see you, Fate. Good night." He said.

Fate merely watched as he turned and got into his car. She was a little disappointed but knows that he's doing it for them. His sports car left her mansion quickly while she stood there in silence. Her lips still tingled after those passionate kisses.

"Heero." She whispered to herself.


Chapter 51.2: Closer

24th December

VLA, Somerleyton Wright Manor, Underground Base

Night time, 8pm

No one likes to be called back in the holidays, but at times it was an emergency. Hence Heero and Lionel are back in the command centre, giving out commands to a problematic mission that was currently going on in Colony L9. Heero had rushed over from his Christmas party at Wingate mansion, hence he was dressed in formal wear. Lionel was dressed rather formally proving that he was at a party too. He was dancing on the dancefloor with Fate when his emergency phone rang. He remembered the look on Fate's face when he said he had to go. The sadness in her eyes was clear but she didn't stop him from leaving. Hence, they were all here trying to solve this ground mission as soon as possible.

The staff that were called back seemed slightly frustrated too but they can't move forward with this. Heero looked at the bigger picture and tried to come up with a strategy for the direct approach. He thought of something and immediately gave orders out to his soldiers on the ground. The plan worked very well, and the battle was soon over. The terrorist group's leaders and members were all captured alive. It was a wrap and Heero asked his soldiers to do what they must to get the information they needed. With that he dismissed everyone quickly, aware that they all have places to be. Lionel was about to leave when he noticed Heero typing on his computer.

"You aren't going?" Lionel asked as he checked his watch, it was already 10pm.

The party was already over and Heero has to rush to the airport after this. Hence, he won't be going back to the party at all.

"I have some matters to take care of." Heero said.

"Surely work matters can wait?" Lionel asked.

"No, I will be gone for the next three days, hold the fort for me." Heero said.

"Where will you be going?" Lionel asked.

"There's a personal matter that I need to see to." Heero said.

That was all he said about the matter and Lionel knows this was Heero's way of saying I can't tell you so don't ask anymore. With that Lionel nodded his head.

"Happy holidays." He told Heero.

Heero merely nodded while his staff cleared out the command centre one by one. The office and base will close for two days to give everyone a chance to spend time with their families. But everyone is still on 24hours standby hence they do have to show up when activated. Heero checked the systems and cameras one last time before he shuts everything except the security systems down. He locked up the underground base as he was the last person inside it.

He was going to get into his car when he noticed a soldier walking around the base on patrol. Those who have no families to return to were scheduled to guard the base. He appreciates them working even on the holidays for he had been like that many years ago. There was no one to celebrate the holidays with, and the holidays were simply another day in the year. He took out his phone and ordered food delivery for his men from a restaurant of his that was still open during Christmas Eve. At least they can celebrate it with each other, but he informed them not to celebrate too hard as he doesn't want anyone to break into the base when he's gone.

He drove back to his penthouse. He considered calling Fate but decided not to. Trowa had texted him saying that they were in Blue Marine Pub drinking. When the pub was undergoing renovations, his best friends have gathered at his penthouse. Before they moved to Quatre's penthouse as if to secretly keep an eye on him and to make sure that he was settling down well in VLA. Now they have finally returned to their usual drinking spot. Heero has given the staff orders to reserve a private room strictly for his friends so they will always have a seat no matter how packed the pub was.

Heero has already packed his luggage bag though he wasn't going to bring much. He was on his yearly trip again, one where he doesn't tell anyone where he's going. He opened the door of his penthouse and saw a pair of high heels immediately. He walked in and took off all of his winter wear. He had let Rolland take two weeks off as he won't be in VLA and this will allow Rolland to spend the holidays with his own family. Rolland has been a loyal butler to him and has served him well hence he deserves a break every now and then. Which can only mean that Fate must have hacked her way into his penthouse. He hangs his coats on the coat rack before he walked further into the living room. The lights were switched on and he saw Fate sitting on the sofa, still dressed in her formal gown.

Fate has been busy in December with winter fashion launches and product launches. She was also often invited to sing for major events be it for Christmas or end of year celebrations. Hence, they didn't get to see each other often in December. Tonight, was one of those rare moments where they finally could spend time with each other. But he was called away due to a work emergency. She looked at him as he approached.

"You got in with Meteor's help?" He asked.

"Yes, sir!" Meteor exclaimed as it jumped up and down.

Fate stood up and looked at him.

"Why are you here, Fate?" He asked.

"Do you remember what happened exactly a year ago?" She asked.

Their eyes met and Heero knew what she was talking about.

"You officially moved back to VLA to be with me last Christmas Eve." Heero said.

"Exactly, so it's our first anniversary as an official couple. Shouldn't such a day be celebrated?" She asked him.

Heero was silent, he wasn't one to celebrate such occasions. But he made a mental note to take note of such days for Fate.

"I'm sorry, work came up." Heero told her softly.

The sadness on her face was clear but her eyes was on the suitcase that was near the door.

"You are leaving again?" She asked.

"Yes." Heero said softly.

She sighed while Heero reached out and hugged her. He didn't speak as he knows that she doesn't want to hear his apologies.

"Where are you going, Heero?" She asked him.

"I can't say." He said softly.

"What is so important that you have to choose it over me?" Fate asked.

She broke their hug and stepped away from him.

"I know it's not work, you said it was personal. So why are you choosing it over spending Christmas with me?" Fate asked.

Heero didn't speak but he knows he can't tell her the truth.

"It's something that I have to do." He said simply.

Their eyes met and she saw the determination in his eyes. She was clearly upset but how many times had she let such moments go by? She will always bear with his vague answers, putting up with him choosing his work over her. She knows that she promised to be understanding but the frequencies of this occurring again just kept on increasing. Even Fate is aware that soon she will reach her breaking point too.

"I will make it up to you." Heero said softly.

"In what way?" She asked.

"We can spend New Year's Eve and the New Year together." Heero said.

"But it's not our couple anniversary." Fate whispered.

Heero came over and took her hands in his.

"I know."

She was silent as he gave her hand a squeeze and noticed that she had worn the bracelet that he had given her as well. He reached into the inner pocket of his suit jacket and took out a small box. He placed it in her hands.

"What's this?" She asked.

"Merry Christmas and Happy Couple Anniversary." Heero told her.

She opened the box and saw that it was a pair of earrings with diamonds and sapphires on it to match the bracelet.

"You were going to give me a whole set of jewellery." Fate said as she looked at the earrings.

She closed the box as if unimpressed with it.

"Well I guess you finished gifting me the set." Fate said.

Heero hugs her and sighed as well. He doesn't want to leave when she's still mad at him.

"Do you hate them?" He asked.

"No, I just… felt as if you were trying to appease me with them. And I'm not someone who can be bought over with lavish gifts." Fate said.

"I did choose them personally with you in mind." Heero said.

She was silent but it was clear that it wasn't enough to make her less angry at him. He reached out and pinched her cheeks, pulling it upwards so that she was smiling. She winced and freed herself from his hold.

"That hurts!" She exclaimed.

"At least you are smiling."

"It was a forced smile." She argued.

"But it's still a smile. Now I don't want to leave when you are still mad at me. So, can we…"

He trailed off when she moved away from him. Meteor came jumping towards her, she opened it up and took out a small card. She handed the card to Heero while she kept the box of earrings inside Meteor.

"Merry Christmas." Fate said softly.

He asked if he could open it and she nodded. He opened the envelope and looked at the card. It was a handmade card by Fate and there was a drawing of them smiling happily as they hugged each other. He was surprised that Fate can draw so well. He reads the message in the card.

Merry Christmas Heero and Happy Couple Anniversary! It has been a year filled with ups and downs, but I'm glad that we are still together. We still love each other so much and I hope to continue to learn more about you. Do not be afraid to share with me about your burdens and be honest with me about how you feel. That's what being in a relationship is for, we help each other out. I look forward to more happy moments with you.

P.S. Your present is…

Heero looked up when he heard something. He noticed that Fate has removed her hair accessory and finger combed through her hair as it fell to its usual position, no longer in the side ponytail that it was styled to be in. She was staring at him more intently than usual and he wondered what she was up to. His guess was right when she reached behind her and unzipped her gown.

Fate wanted to do with this Heero tonight. She had everything planned tonight but it was totally ruined thanks to the emergency call. Hence in hopes of savaging her plan she came to his penthouse. Sadly, he still has somewhere to do to. Hence, she knows she has to do this now, even though she's still half mad at him. His Christmas present is her as she felt that it's time for them to move forward. She isn't going to cower in fear like she did anymore. She wants this with Heero. She feels embarrassed to do this, but she can do this, she's not a child anymore. But the card in his hand flew to the floor and before she could strip the gown off, Heero wrapped his suit jacket around her and hugged her close to him.

"Heero…" She whispered, that was not how she imagined his reaction to be like.

"What are you doing?" Heero asked.

"I was trying to…" She trailed off, a little embarrassed to say the word out.

She felt him reach behind her and zipped her dress back up. Fate wasn't sure if she should be disappointed by his reaction. Was he not interested in her? He stepped away from her but did not remove his suit jacket that he had wrapped around her. He stared at her in silence, but the anger was clear in his eyes.

"Fate, we talked about this. You shouldn't do something like this unless you are ready to face the consequences." Heero warned her.

"I know."

"Are you truly ready to do this?" He asked her.

"I… yes." She said.

Their eyes met and the anger slowly vanished from his eyes. She cupped his cheek as they stared deeply into each other's eyes.

"Today is a special day for us and so I want us to move on to the next stage in our relationship. You have waited long enough, and I know you are frustrated about it."

He held her hand that was on his cheek.

"So, I…" She trailed off.

"Decided to offer yourself to me as a present." Heero finished for her.

"Something along that line." She whispered.

Heero sighed and moved away from her while Fate watched him.

"I admit that there are times when it's tough on me. But I don't want you to do this for my sake. I promised I will wait for you, and so I will." Heero said.

"What if I said the time's now?" She asked him.

Their eyes met but Heero shook his head.

"No, now's not the time." He said.

"What makes you so sure that I can't handle it?" She asked instead.

"Because you are still mad at me for choosing work and this trip over you. And because you want me to stay with you tonight instead." Heero said.

"That was not my intention, although it will be good if you stayed with me till tomorrow." She admits.

"Having sex for the wrong reasons is what started all of this. We promised to make it right the next time and that is not now." Heero said.

Fate was hurt by his rejection.

"I am doing this not because I don't want you. I do, but not like this. You will only regret it like our first time." Heero told her.

Fate looked away from him while he came over and kissed her on her forehead.

"I will send you back." He told her, as if chasing her away.

"Heero, wait." She called out as she held onto his hand.

He looked at her while she kissed him on the lips suddenly. He didn't react to her kiss and that disappointed her. She stepped back from him, too hurt to speak.

"I'm sorry." She whispered.

Then she threw his suit jacket onto the sofa before she picked up her clutch bag. Heero watched as she wore her heels quickly and moved to leave his penthouse.

"Fate…" He called out.

She didn't even look back at him; she was gone after the door closed behind her. Heero left her a text message but he still has somewhere he needed to go. He will deal with her when he gets back to VLA. He changed into a new suit after taking a bath. Then he left for the airport with his small luggage bag.


An hour later,

Rebecca's Apartment

Patrick never contacted Rebecca again after what have happened between them. Rebecca was also slowly getting over Patrick. She has been practicing for her violin concerts in December. But thankfully all of them ended well, hence she can finally celebrate Christmas. Then again it was an odd feeling to have to celebrate Christmas alone now. She didn't want to go to the Christmas Party at the Wingate Mansion but showed up anyway. She was a bit affected at the sight of couples everywhere. But Heero was called away and it was clear that Fate was upset about it. Rebecca merely said hi and bye to Wufei who was with his friends.

After the party, the men were going for another round of drinks hence Rebecca left to go home. Now she was alone at home, drinking wine on her own. Christmas was getting a little boring. Arabella went home to wait for Trowa, it was clear that they were going to spend Christmas together. The doorbell rang and she got up from her seat on the sofa. She checked the video intercom and noticed that it was Fate. She opened the door and saw that Fate was still dressed in her formal gown. She looked upset.

"Is something wrong?" Rebecca asked.

"No… Well yes. Anyway, Heero will be overseas so I thought I will spend Christmas with you instead." Fate said.

"Oh… I don't have any plans." Rebecca said.

"I did but it doesn't matter now." Fate said.

Fate used her guest room's toilet to take a bath, then she changed into more casual clothing which she had brought inside Meteor. They sat down on her sofa and determined which movie to watch. But it was painful to watch Fate like this, she always hides her true feelings, pretending that everything was alright. It got on Rebecca's nerves and finally she reached boiling point.

"Okay, out with it." Rebecca said.

"Out with what? The movie is starting." Fate asked.

Rebecca took the remote and stopped the movie from playing.

"I'm not an idiot, Fate. Something happened between Heero and you." Rebecca said.

Fate drank wine in silence, this was odd as Fate seldom drinks. She poured more wine for herself and drank it in silence as if wondering if she should speak. Then she sighed.

"He doesn't want to… have sex with me." She whispered.

"What?" Rebecca asked in surprise.

Fate sighed; well it was taken out of context, but it was what happened.

"You mean you two haven't have sex since you two became a couple?" Rebecca asked in disbelief.

Fate didn't answer, but Rebecca jumped to her own conclusion.

"Oh my god, for real?" She asked her.

Fate merely nodded since it was partially true.

"Okay at first, I felt it was too soon, but now…" Fate trailed off, unsure what to say.

"He knows about your change in style, right?" Rebecca asked.

"Yes."

"And?" She probed.

"He's a little concerned about me showing off too much skin." Fate said.

"Wait, he has never made a move on you?" Rebecca asked.

"He did… but we ended it at making out level." Fate explained.

Rebecca is confused, Fate is a really beautiful woman hence why isn't Heero making the move on her? Unless he's too much of a stick that all he knows is work. But surely…

"You should have come to me about this sooner."

"What do you mean?" Fate asked in surprise.

"Don't worry, there are strategies to such things." Rebecca said with a smile.

Fate can only hope that it will work on Heero.


3 days later, 27th December

Night time, 7pm

Heero has just returned to VLA. He went on his annual trip to check on Wing Zero which he had stored in a very isolated area. All systems were a go including the Zero system. But he upgraded the defence system which took a while. Then he thought about what to do with Fate on his journey back to VLA. She did not reply to his text and he was getting worried. While he was driving back to his penthouse, he decided to call her.

"Hello?" She picked up on the fourth ring and he switched it to speaker mode as he's still driving.

"Fate? I just got back to VLA." Heero said.

"Oh." She responded, sounding rather bored.

"Where are you now?" He asked.

"I'm er…" She trailed off.

"Who's that?" Heero frowned when he heard a male's voice behind her.

"It's Heero, he's back in VLA." Fate said to the person.

"Fate, who's that?" Heero asked instead.

"Oh, I'm with Quatre." Fate said.

Heero's frown deepen but he chooses to trust in Quatre.

"Where are you?" Heero asked.

"I'm in Quatre's apartment."

Her answer surprised him, and he immediately pressed down on the accelerator, trying to get there as quickly as possible.

"I will be there in five." He said before he hung up.

He sped through the roads of VLA, he didn't care that it was snowing, and the roads were slippery. His car's tires have enough grip that the car won't slide on roads. He drove fast and managed to reach in four minutes. He parked his car in the basement and took the lift up to Quatre's apartment. He walked to the door and calmed himself down before he pressed on the doorbell. Quatre opened the door for him and they chatted lightly while he entered the house. He saw that Felicia was talking to Fate and it appears to be a business meeting between the three of them. That made him relieved.

"What's going on?" Heero asked.

"We are asking for Fate's help to do a charity event on the 3rd of January next year." Felicia said.

Heero nodded and Quatre asked if he wanted anything to drink which he declined.

"How is the partnership going?" Heero asked Quatre.

"It's been great so far." Quatre said with a smile.

Heero nodded and waited for a while as Quatre and Felicia were finishing the meeting with Fate soon. With that they promised to contact Fate's manager Kimberly to inform her of the job. Felicia packed up her tablet computer and Heero said he will give Felicia a lift back to Wingate mansion. But she said she's meeting someone else so Quatre called a cab for her. Felicia left first as the cab was two minutes away from the apartment building. Quatre thanked Fate for her help again who merely smiled and waved goodbye. Heero bids Quatre goodbye as well. Both of them left Quatre's apartment and went into the lift. The silence that surrounded them felt heavy.

"I was relieved to see Felicia there." Heero said.

"Oh?" she asked.

"I..." He decided to be upfront about it.

"Even if Quatre is my best friend, he's still a man. The thought of you two being together alone in his apartment worried me." Heero admits.

Fate looked surprised to hear that but smiled instead. They were interrupted when the lift stopped at a level. Fate immediately turned so that her face cannot be seen and Heero stepped forward to hide her from view. She gave him a shy smile as it was clear why she doesn't want to be seen here as gossip will spread. They were finally alone when they reached the basement level. Heero led the way towards where his car was parked but held onto her hand and Fate merely closed her hand around his. It was almost as if they had reconciled their fight that happened three days ago. Once they got into his car he asked about her job.

Her album and songs still topped the charts even in December. Fate said that while promotional activities for the album has died down, she still has a lot of events to do. But she's really glad that the album has been selling really well. Heero asked where she wanted to go, and she asked to go to the Hotel's Presidential suite. She explained that her family is currently staying in Moonstone Mansion since the Christmas Party and are staying in VLA till New Year. She wanted to spend some time alone with him, so it was the only place to go.


Hotel's Presidential Suite

7.50pm

Both of them entered the presidential suite and took off their winter coats. Fate was dressed in a winter dress and she removed her high heeled boots. Heero asked her if she wanted any drink but she shook her head. Fate sat down on the sofa while Heero boiled hot water for both of them.

"Have you eaten?" She asked him.

"No."

"Shall we order food then?" She asked, reaching for the hotel's room service menu.

"Fate…"

"Yes?" She asked.

He sat down on the sofa next to her while she puts the menu back where it was.

"I gave our fight a lot of thought." Heero said.

"While on your personal trip?" Fate asked.

"Yes."

"And?" She pressed on.

Their eyes met and Heero seemed serious somehow.

"Are you sure that you are ready?" He asked her.

Fate didn't answer him.

"Because there is no back trekking after we proceed to the next stage, so I wanted you to be absolutely sure about this." Heero told her.

"And if I said yes?" She asked.

Heero's response was to press her down onto the long sofa with him above her. She blushed at how close he was to her.

"Then we move forward." He said, as his eyes fell on the buttons of her dress.

He looked into her eyes as if giving her the chance to decide. She wasn't really sure herself. Rebecca have given her tips on how to seduce him, but as he came back rather suddenly, she wasn't prepared at all. But does one really need to prepare for such things? Aren't they usually spontaneous moments built from sexual attraction?

"You are frowning." Heero noticed.

Fate decided to lie instead.

"I… don't remember what underwear I'm wearing under this dress."

He stared at her as if in surprise.

"Does it matter?" He asked her.

"Of course, it does!" She exclaimed.

"How so?" Heero asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Sexy lingerie can help to speed the process up a lot, and naturally they bring out a woman's assets better. I too want to look my best in front of you." She explained.

Heero moved away from her and sat up on the sofa instead, causing her to look at him in confusion. He took in a deep breath and seemed to be trying to control his emotions, but his eyes had a flash of laughter in them. Fate sat up on the sofa.

"You are laughing at me!" Fate exclaimed, giving him a jab on his arm.

"I'm trying not to." Heero admits.

She pouted her lips as she stared at him in slight anger. Heero took in another deep breath to calm himself down.

"While that is accurate, it's not necessary. After all the clothes usually stay off." Heero said after he cleared his throat.

"I know that. But I… just feel unprepared today." She whispered.

"Which meant you were prepared on Christmas Eve?" Heero asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Yes."

"What were you wearing under that formal gown of yours?" Heero asked.

Fate blushed immediately but she wasn't going to tell him what she was wearing that night. She looked away from him, finding it hard to answer him.

"Fate?" He pressed on.

She hesitated before she leaned over and whispered the answer to his question into his ear. Heero was stunned by her answer and had to force himself to keep the image of her wearing that particular lingerie out of his mind. Why was she torturing him like this?

"I deeply regret not staying with you that night. Fortunately, I'm sure there will be other chances." Heero said.

Fate smiled shyly at him instead.

"Have you always been so daring in your underwear choices?" Heero asked her.

"I'm not sure when the change started. Partly because I do have quite an extensive collection, mostly are gifts from friends and designers. Then again there are clothing that required it." Fate said.

"Like?"

"Any gown that shows a lot of leg with really high slits up the sides." Fate explained.

"It makes sense." Heero said.

Fate reached over and hugged him.

"We should schedule a day, that way I can be more prepared for this." She said.

Heero was silent, since when do people schedule for sex? Then again, he might as well go ahead with it as it will be best if she's comfortable.

"Other than that, is there anything else we need to prepare?" Heero asked.

"Protection?"

Heero was reminded of the fact that he did not use any protection when he had sex with Fate for the first time. Thankfully, she was not pregnant from it or it will definitely complicate a lot of matters. But he will be more cautious because of that.

"Right." He said.

Fate then leaned in and kissed him on his cheek. Heero turned and captured his lips with hers. He did push her down on the sofa again but this time he knows he will stop at a making out session. After many passionate kisses, both of them broke apart to catch some air. Fate's body was heating up and she felt weak, as if she were unable to get up after those kisses. Her mind was a total blank, since when did their kisses get so intense?

"You alright?" He asked.

"Yes, I think." She whispered.

He kissed her gently on the forehead before he reached for the room service menu.

"Let's get food." Heero said as he rolled off her to stand up.

Fate stared up at the ceiling and tried to calm her racing heart down before she slowly moved to sit up as well. It's funny how Heero switches so fast from those heated kisses to his usual mode. But she's also grateful for it shows that he's considerate of her.

"Do you want anything?" Heero asked.

She leaned over and looked at the menu with him before they both ordered their dinner.


They ate the food that they have ordered but it was clear that Fate doesn't want to return back to her mansion. Heero decided to make tonight an exception by choosing to stay over as well. Hence, they can spend more time together, but they will not sleep in the same bedroom tonight.

Now they were watching a variety show on television. Fate is cuddling up to him as if she wants to be close to him. The show was boring and edited to emphasize things that weren't funny. Fate changed the channels but there wasn't anything good on other channels too. She switched off the television and placed the remote back down on the coffee table. Then she sighed and said she was taking a bath. Heero said he will do the same hence they went upstairs to the bedrooms which have a private bathroom.

Fate took a long bath and soaked herself in the bathtub. She was a little nervous even though she knows that they aren't going to have sex tonight. Heero will likely sleep in another room so as to keep some physical distance between them. She is unsure if she should make good use of this opportunity or not. She looked up at the shelving and realised that there weren't any towels in this bathroom. If she didn't have Meteor, she will probably have to wear back her dress to go search for the towel while dripping wet. But then she picked up Meteor which was swimming around in the hot waters.

"Do help to get me a bath towel." She instructed the robot.

"Towel retrieval objective set." Meteor announced, jumping out of the bathtub and jumped towards the bathroom's door.

Fate got out of the bathtub and opened the door so that Meteor can go find the towel for her. She left the door slightly ajar for Meteor to come back to her. Then she went back into the bath tub and lightly rinsed herself as she waited. She was stunned when she heard Heero's voice outside of the bathroom's door.

"Fate?"

She froze and was very aware that she's naked in the bath tub and the waters were clear, making it hard to cover herself up. But she immediately sank down further into the waters, in hopes that she cannot be seen from the ajar bathroom door.

"Yes?" She called out, trying to appear calm.

"Meteor came looking for me, I found a spare towel in the second bedroom's bathroom." Heero told her.

She could see him looking in from the gap in the door, he's dressed in the hotel's bathrobe probably because he didn't bring an extra set of clothing with him.

"Yes, can you pass it to Meteor?" She asked, turning around so that at least he can only see her back.

She heard Meteor bouncing into the bathroom.

"I will see you later." Heero said as he closed the door from his side.

Fate heaved a sigh of relief as Meteor brought her the towel. She got out of the bath tub, towel dried and wore the extra set of underwear that Meteor carries inside of it. Then she wore the hotel's bathrobe over it. She then brushed out her long golden blonde hair and blew dry it. After she was done, she came out into the master bedroom. Heero wasn't around hence she wondered if he had retired to bed. She knocked on the second bedroom to see that he was doing work with the help of his phone. He sensed her presence and turned to look at her.

"Thanks for the towel." She said as she smiled at him.

He merely nodded. Then Fate sat down on the edge of the bed, hoping that they can talk more before they turn in for bed. Heero finished up on some of his work before he sat down beside her.

"So…"

Fate kissed him suddenly and he deepened her gentle kiss to a more passionate one, pulling her closer to him. It was clear to him that only their bathrobes separated them but now wasn't the time yet. He chided himself to go slower but she was responding to his kisses so eagerly that he didn't want to slow down. He pressed her down onto the bed as their kisses continued. She moaned against his lips but seemed to want more. He smiled slightly before he kissed her back roughly.

"Heero." She moaned his name.

He broke the kiss and stared down at her. He was tempted to open her bathrobe but chose not to.

"You shouldn't do that." He said softly.

"Do what?" She asked.

"Kiss me in the bedroom, knowing very well what I'm capable of." He said.

His eyes fell on the knot of her bathrobe before he looked into her eyes again.

"I might take that as an invitation." Heero told her.

She closed her eyes as he kissed her on her forehead and on her cheek. She smells great after the bath and Heero wondered what they should do now. But Fate reached out and touched his cheek. He kissed that hand before he rolled off her.

"Let's get some sleep." He said.

Fate nodded and got off the bed.

"See you." She whispered.

"Good night Fate."

She looked back at him as if she didn't want to be apart from him, but she left after that. Heero sighed and knows that he won't be sleeping tonight. Hence, he continued working, trying to use work to distract him from his thoughts on Fate.


Chapter 51.3: The Future He Saw

29th December

VLA, Heero's Penthouse

Night time, 10pm

After Colony 203 is coming to a close, Heero was busy in his home office looking through the many closing reports for the year of AC 203. He has to write a summarized report on all the missions that his army had completed in the year of AC 203. There were still areas that needed to be improved on but Heero is happy that they have achieved so much in seven months. Fate came into his mind and he thought about their relationship. It has been a tough year for them as a couple especially when their fears were put to the test with the fear gas attack on Blue Marine Pub. They are not physically intimate with each other yet but Heero knows that Fate is trying really hard to overcome her fears.

Heero decided to take a break and walked over to the glass windows. He stared out into the city of VLA in silence, thinking of what is to come in the new year ahead. Yet something else was on his mind. During his yearly check on Wing Zero, the ZERO system activated by itself. Heero remembered feeling surprised but is aware that Wing Zero wanted to tell him something. Hence, he entered the cockpit of the Gundam again after so many years. He remembered sitting down and touching those familiar yet unused controls again.

Thinking back then Heero was reminded yet again how much damage he had done as a Gundam pilot and how he wished that he will never need to pilot Wing Zero again. But still he kept it operational as a failsafe. Should humanity choose to go to war or comes up with a weapon even more horrible than the Gundams, Heero swore that he will pilot Wing Zero to shoot it down. Even if he will have to throw away everything that he had done since the war ended. His family, his company, his army, his best friends and Fate…

He remembered sitting there and closing the cockpit before he closed his eyes, aware that the ZERO system was running on its own, trying to tell him something. No, it was going to show him something. The yearly check had taken longer than usual but Heero was glad that he is went on the trip as ZERO System had shown him a possibility of a future that Heero must prevent at all costs.


The future as triggered by Zero System

Heero opened his eyes and found himself in an unfamiliar room. He stood up and looked around him, taking in the entire room slowly. He's in a home office and he noticed the photo frame on the side of the desk. He picked it up and was surprised by what he saw. It was a family photo consisting of him, Fate and four children. It was clear that Heero had married Fate and the four children were theirs. It was a nice mix of two females and two males. Everyone looked happy in the photo, including him which was odd. For he rarely smiled even in photos, but he was seen smiling in this family photo.

He placed the photo frame down and looked at the electronic planner on the desk. The year showed that it was AC 215, almost twelve years into the future. What was the ZERO System trying to tell him? He noticed that it was a Sunday afternoon which will explain why he seems to be at home. He went out of the home office and was impressed by the sheer size of the mansion he was in. It appears that they now live in a mansion which is a practical choice as having four children will make it hard to live his current penthouse.

Heero walked down the grand staircase, slowly taking in the details of the mansion. There were a few servants around and they greeted him. Heero nodded back at them and wondered where everyone was. He briefly saw his own reflection reflected in the clear glass windows. He looked older after all he's 35 years old now. He's still muscular in shape and looked mature. Heero continued on and eventually heard noises, made only by children. He headed in the direction of the source and found his four children in the large gardens. The sun was shining brightly, making him wonder if it was summer. His sons were playing with drones and there were two oddly shaped robots running after them. His daughter was reading while his youngest daughter appears to be drawing. That's when he saw Fate.

He was stunned that she looked exactly the same as she does now. She didn't look like she had aged at all, even though she's turning 34 years old now. She still maintained her hourglass figure and still looks so beautiful. Fate was watching over the children and ensuring their youngest daughter doesn't eat her crayons. Heero went out to the gardens and everyone greeted him.

"Daddy!" He froze at that word but merely nodded back at his sons who were off chasing after their own drones again.

They do have a really large gardens, but it won't be good if they run out of sight.

"Stay in sight." He called out.

"Okay!" His younger son said before he ran off after his eldest.

Heero then approached Fate, noticing the large diamond on her wedding band. She smiled up at him while he sat down next to her on the bench.

"What are you doing?" He asked.

"Watching Celeste." She said.

Her eyes were on the youngest daughter which meant she's Celeste. His other daughter was reading in silence. Celeste noticed him and started walking over to them. She seems to be two years old and Heero is worried that she will fall as she's not very stable on her two feet. Fate smiled and picked her up as Celeste handed the drawing block paper to him. Heero looked at it and expected a kid's drawing. But he was stunned that she drew the fountain really well for someone her age though the colouring is off.

"Papa." She called out and Fate handled her over to him.

He hesitated but carried Celeste who immediately planted a kiss on his cheek. She's sweet but Heero wasn't quite sure what to do with her. Then she smiled brightly at him and he was reminded of Fate's smile. Heero gave a small smile and looked at his sons who were still running around with their flying drones. Technology seemed to have advanced further, judging from what he can see right now. Fate smiled too as if she's happy to be able to watch over her children like this. But Heero noticed that his elder daughter did not look up from her book even once.

Rolland came over dressed in his usual butler suit and offered them cold refreshments. Fate thanked him and took a glass of juice while his two sons were called back.

"Lady Emmaline…" Rolland called out.

His elder daughter simply reached out, took the glass of juice and drank it while she continued reading. She didn't even say a single word, Heero found it odd that his level of concentration and quietness was inherited by his daughter. Heero took a glass of juice as he watched his sons return to join them. Celeste looked interested in the drink hence Heero fed it to her using the straw.

"Young Master Christopher and Edgar." Rolland greeted as he passed them their juice.

His sons were sweating from running around so much but they seemed happy to be able to drink their juice.

"How's the drones?" Heero asked.

"They are really fast and can fly much faster now, we are bound to win first place in the drone race." Christopher said.

"Race?" Heero asked.

"Yeah, it's one week from now." Christopher told him.

Heero caught the disapproving look on Fate's face and she swiftly stopped Celeste from drinking more, at the child's disapproval though.

"Heero, watch her. If she drinks anymore, she won't be able to drink her milk." Fate said.

Heero swiftly deposited Celeste back to Fate while he drank his juice and watched his family in silence. What was ZERO trying to tell him here? Just then a man dressed in a black suit approached them.

"Madam, Brigadier Wingate." The man greeted him and Fate.

Brigadier? It was clear that he was promoted in his career in the army.

"What is it?" Heero asked.

"We have an emergency." The man told them.

Fate looked surprised while Heero stood up and entered the mansion. The man who appeared to be one of his soldiers but acting as his personal bodyguard informed him of the situation.

"Code Red will be activated in two hours' time. Evacuation to Shelter order will be activated as well." He told him.

Wait what? Code Red is a status used only in war times. Evacuation to shelter? What does it all mean? Was a battle coming? He looked back at his children and Fate who were still out in the gardens.

"We have received reports that the weapon is armed and ready for use. It's only a matter of time before they target VLA." The man told him.

Heero closed his eyes and nodded, knowing that he needed to head to base to deal with this crisis. But who is the enemy that they are fighting this time?

"Have we notified McKnight?" Heero asked, Lionel should still be his second in command.

"Yes, he's already on his way to base. Brigadier Wingate, please head to Central Military Base."

Heero wanted to sigh. They were probably gathering all higher ranked officers to meet in the Central Military Base. They will likely have a long meeting on how to deal with the threat. Or they will be awaiting orders from L'espoir, as issued by the current President of the Colonies. Heero will rather wait at his own military base as he can give orders directly to his soldiers to deploy them. They should still move much faster than the rest of the regiments.

"I will head to base instead." Heero said.

"But sir…"

"We can video chat if we have to." Heero said.

Then he summoned Rolland.

"Yes Master Heero?" Rolland asked.

"A battle might come, Rolland." Heero said softly, watching his family who seemed unaware of this.

He was aware of how much he will have to lose should there truly be an attack in VLA. Hadn't he been working so hard to prevent fighting and a war from break out again? Then why is this happening again?

Rolland was stunned but nodded gravely as if Heero had warned him of this day beforehand.

"Evacuate my family and all staff. Lock down the mansion and the shelter. Do not come out until the Evacuation Order is lifted." Heero ordered.

"Yes sir, right away." Rolland said.

"Do we have enough supplies for a month?" Heero asked.

"Yes, I made sure to stock up ever since you warned me." Rolland said.

"Good." Heero said.

Heero is aware that he must have built a very strong shelter under this mansion for he wasn't one who took things lightly. Then he looked at the man who seemed to be his bodyguard.

"Get the other bodyguards to protect my family." Heero ordered.

"I will inform them."

He left to give the order through their communication earpiece. Heero looked at his family and knows that Fate was no fool. She was watching him intently through the glass windows as they were talking inside just now. Heero signaled her to come in, she immediately handled Celeste to Emmaline who seemed surprised. Then she came into the mansion.

"Heero?"

Heero hugged her before he told her that a battle is coming.

"Evacuate the children and staff, don't come out until the evacuation order is lifted." Heero told her.

"My God, it's really happening?" She asked as her face paled.

"Yes." Heero said.

Then they broke the hug and he kissed her.

"Be safe Heero." Fate whispered.

"Look after the children." Heero whispered.

She nodded and then Heero went out to say goodbye. For indeed he doesn't know if he will make it back alive though he's not likely to be deployed. But military bases are a target, there are always risks involved. He went out and hugged Celeste who smiled back at him. He hugged Emmaline and asked her to stay focused, not on her books all the time. Emmaline looked confused but hugged him back. Fate then said that Heero has to attend to an emergency and may not return in a few weeks. Edgar hesitated until Heero opened his arms and he came over.

"I will miss you Daddy." Edgar said.

Heero nodded and hugged Christopher who seemed to be his eldest.

"Watch over your mother and your siblings for me." Heero told him.

"Of course, Father." Christopher said.

Heero gave him a smile before he went back to his room to change into his full uniform. His family were there to see him off. Fate looked upset but she nodded at him as if she too had been prepared for this day. They waved goodbye at him while he got into the car and his team of bodyguards entered the car after him. They drove off towards his base. He immediately messaged his best friends who were evacuating their families to the nearest shelter. He informed them to come to his shelter as he knows it was more secured compared to public ones. He informed Rolland and Fate of this development. Fate replied that she understands and will open the shelter to his best friends' families as well. Then Heero waited to get to base for more updates. Peace was about to be broken in an hour's time when the evacuation order is issued.


Somerleyton Wright Manor, Underground Base

While Heero was there, he was informed more of the current situation. It appears that America has teamed up with Russia to build a weaponized satellite. It was passed as a simple large satellite but with its position being close to the Moon, it was easy for it to attack Earth or the Colonies. They have received reports that the weapon is live and there will be a test shot for it soon.

Due to diplomatic relations, they cannot attack the satellite until the first shot is given. It was a major violation to the peace between Colonies and Earth. But on official papers it was a just a simple satellite. Hence it was a trap. If the Colonies attack first, they can spin the story so that war breaks out. Heero doesn't want the weapon to be fired at all, a lot of people will die based on one shot alone.

It was possible that they will choose to test it on the Moon. Although through the years, the Moon has developed well with help from the Colonies. There are still people living on the Moon and Heero does not wish for them to be sacrificed. Heero wondered if they can infiltrate the satellite, get the evidence that it was no ordinary satellite. They can shut it down from the inside through a covert operation, but it has its risks.

Heero was in a live chat with the higher ranked officers in the United Colonies Army as well as with the officials in L'espoir. The Code Red and evacuation order has been activated. The Entire Colony L1 is being evacuated and it was taking time. The President of the Colonies decided to activate the Lock down shield. It was an invention that Heero worked on with Belmont, using the same technology as Meteor's shield. It will deflect a direct hit from the weapon, but it eats up a lot of the Colonies' power to maintain its output. It can run on solar energy, but it was not the optimum source. Locking down the entire Colony L1 will prevent anyone from entering and leaving the colony until it has been unlocked. Heero is worried that it can only take one hit before the shield fails due to the lack of power.

The entire Colony L1 went on lockdown and Heero sent a company of his men to the shield control tower. He wants them to protect it as any infiltration into the tower and stopping the shield will cause the destruction of the Colony. Heero was surprised at himself, in terms of tactics he seemed to have seen this coming a few months ago. Hence, he has secretly launched his men and space weaponry into the outer space to attack even when the entire Colony L1 is in lockdown. Then he called for Rolland. Another way to power the shield is though Meteor or in this case, all the robots that Belmont has invented. It will strengthen the shield, but it meant that he would need his family to be present there. It was the worst move to make but he needed the shield to take more than one shot before he can send out counter measures. There is a secured shelter in the shield control tower but Heero is afraid that it will be an area of target. He cannot go there personally but he has no choice. He asked for them to escort his family to the shelter in the control tower, all of their robots are needed for this.

Fate was stunned and took over the phone. She disagreed saying that Meteor's shield should be enough but Heero said they cannot take the chance. She scolded him saying she will not put their children in danger. But everyone was notified when the first shot was fired aimed at the Moon to show a test of power. The beam of light was strong and when it was over everyone was stunned that only half of the moon remained. Fate is getting an update of this through Meteor as well and she was shocked. Such firepower will take out the entire Colony easily.

The President of the Colonies issued an official statement while orders to shoot down the satellite was given, for the Moon is considered one of the Colonies' territory. Heero immediately ordered his men in outer space to launch to destroy the satellite while they are recharging. Fate has no choice but to gather their children and to head to the control tower by helicopter. Trowa and Duo said they will go along to protect Heero's family.

Heero is getting live updates from his men and they were being shot at while trying to approach the satellite. Hence the fighter jets were launched, and the battle has started. Colony L1 opened the port hatch to launch some of their fighter jets. Heero knows that the key is not to use too much force for Earth can question them about their weapons. They were watching over the feed when a timer appeared, warning the entire Colony L1. Heero knows that it was from the ZERO System. They only have an hour until the next shot will be fired. He urged Fate to hurry up while he was notified of the fact that Wing Zero was moving. But surely they can take the satellite down without the Gundams anymore.

Heero tried to command Wing Zero to return but it was moving on its own, flying towards the satellite. But they have not disabled the mobile suit detector technologies even after the war has ended. Fate has reached the shield's tower and plugged in Meteor along with all his children's robots. The shield was strengthened and Colony L1 was locked down again. While the battle at the satellite was proving difficult as America and Russia have sent their fighter jets as well. As the space battle continues, Heero looked at the counter and knows that time was limited.

Another warning appeared and everyone was shocked when they picked up Wing Zero's signal in outer space, moving so fast. Wufei demanded an explanation from Heero through a private channel. But Heero said he's not inside as he's here in the base. But that wasn't the point, the point was why wasn't Wing Zero destroyed?

Wing Zero dispatched the jet planes from America and Russia immediately, making an entrance into the satellite's airfield. Heero ordered everyone to retreat as Wing Zero has enough firepower to take the entire satellite down. But it was being disturbed by the fighter jets sent by the enemy forces. His men rose to support Wing Zero, freeing it to enter into the weapon's beam cannon. Heero ordered an immediate retreat and the forces all fell back. Heero's watch sounded and he saw that Wing Zero was asking him for permission to use its full power. Heero sighed, he had no choice as the counter only had five minutes left. Heero scanned his thumbprint, allowing the access.

The entire Earth and Colonies who were watching this were shocked when footage of Wing Zero opening up its full wings and directed all of its blasters at the weapon. Heero have given it the full upgrade, all of its wings are weaponised, allowing it to fire beams. Wing Zero fired first, destroying the entire weapon from the inside. Then Wing Zero fled the scene just as the entire satellite blew up. Everyone was relieved but Heero is worried about the repercussions to come especially from Earth's side.

Orders were given to chase down Wing Zero but Heero gave the same order, he is aware that he will be marshalled if he doesn't give that order. Thankfully Wing Zero moved so fast that it was soon out of firing range, disappearing deep into outer space. Lockdown was turned off and evacuation order was lifted. Heero is now aware of what the ZERO System was telling him. The weaponised satellite, he must stop it before it can even be built. With his resolve strengthened, he closed his eyes as if to take a breather.


Back to the Present

The vision that the Zero System had triggered had ended there. Heero looked down at his hands and knows that it was simply a possibility. Nothing was set in stone regarding the future yet, but he will be more cautious towards America and Russia. There were a lot of things that he needed to look into and plan for. Prevention in advance are sometimes better than cure, he has to make sure that everyone still has a future to look forward to.

He will need to look into the shield technology as implemented in the vision as well, it will be another collaboration effort with Belmont de Camden. But he is aware of its weakness, he must come up with more sources of power so that the shield can work for a longer period of time. He sighed, there was far too much to do and plan for. He's worried about the future even though it's not even here yet. But the ZERO system will not trigger the vision for him to see if it's not worried.

Heero strengthened his resolve yet again, he will not let everything that they have worked so hard on be ruined by the start of another war. He doesn't want his future children to experience what war times are like. He wants them to have a proper, normal life. One that he wasn't able to have. Looks like he must continue fighting until his last dying breath. It was tough but he has to do it so that everyone else can live a peaceful life. For now, he is determined to see this through.

To Be Continued….


Author's Note: These three chapters focuses more on Heero and Fate. Reopening the Blue Marine Pub is important to Heero and the guys can finally gather at their usual drinking spot again. Meanwhile, Heero and Fate are still struggling with drawing the line when it comes to physical intimacy.

Personally, I did struggle to write the last chapter, unsure if I should include it in. But I decided to include it as it gives a foreshadow of where the future of this story will be like. Of course, it is just a possibility of what the future may turn out to be. But now that the ZERO system has warned Heero of the future, he can make plans to change it.

Thank you for continuing to support this story, stay tuned for more chapters to come!

Trivia: The title of Chapter 51.3 The Future He Saw is a slight play of words with reference to Gundam Wing's first episode titled "The Shooting Star She Saw"