A/N: After the last chapter a little fluff is needed, these two really are dense idiots but it is fun watching them. I hope this brightens everyone's day. Please leave a comment/review as those are helping fuel a rather strange bunny right now. Stay safe ~ Phoenixnext

~Chapter 4~

The next morning Fate wasn't sure if Nanoha was trying to kill her or not. She had given her a body surfer's wetsuit and wouldn't take any excuses. Leading her to one of the public changing rooms that dotted the beach she pushed her in and threatened to withhold cinnamon rolls if she didn't change quickly. Stepping out Fate felt strange, she hadn't worn anything like this in a very long time. Nanoha couldn't help but appreciate the slim build of the blonde and even with her damaged leg she struck an imposing figure. Nanoha taught her the basics of body surfing and couldn't help laughing as Fate ended up swallowing mouthfuls of seawater.

After meeting Fate, Momoko was hopeful that the woman would continue her friendship with her daughter so had very generously given Nanoha a day off. The fact that Nanoha had come home so late that night with a pout had worried her at first. Their usual pre-bedtime ritual of having a cup of tea and chatting had allowed her to clarify the situation. Nanoha was very much on her way to falling in love with the blonde, a fact that was very encouraging to the mother. The youngest Harlaown had obviously shown a strong preference for her daughter which meant with a little push she might see her lonely child in a healthy supportive relationship.

Momoko had no reservations about letting nature take its course, Fate might have been adopted but the way she spoke and held herself was like a younger Lindy. A woman she had admired and in the quiet of the night she could silently admit she had a rather large crush on. The teal haired woman had been elegant and poised even as a teen, her arranged marriage had broken many hearts within their school. But seeing them together she could tell it wasn't just business and their families forcing the relationship, there had been a strong bond of love which was why… Why she was so happy for the woman when she heard they had married after Lindy finished university.

She might not have gotten a chance with a Harlaown princess, but if her daughter had somehow caught the attention of one, she was going to give her wholehearted support. Which was why she had packed a large hamper of food and told Nanoha to enjoy a day with her friend. Encouraging her to take along extra swimwear and towels, and telling her that it would be good therapy for Fate. Afterall, didn't she want her to get healthy and strong; a must for anyone paired with a Takamachi.

After a morning of swimming they decided to sit under an umbrella for shade while they relaxed, Nanoha couldn't believe how nice it was to lounge like this. Fate had her legs stretched out in front of her, the scars on her leg a ropey pink made a surge of protectiveness flow inside her while the curious kitty inside her wondered what they felt like. They weren't repellent or gross to her, instead they seemed like badges of courage and strength. She'd never met anyone as strong as the blonde, even with her occasional dark moods she clearly had a pure heart and a desire to help others.

There was a gurgling noise and Nanoha had to laugh, poor Fate-chan was hungry. The blonde pouted, "I guess it is time to head back. If I'm lucky I can make a sandwich without my devil twins trying to steal my food."

Not wanting to let Fate leave so soon, even if it meant she was being greedy, Nanoha spoke up, "I brought lunch with me."

Surprised by this Fate asked, "Are you sure? I don't want to eat all your food."

Nanoha smiled at the woman, "There is plenty, mom packed it. She told me to make sure you ate as much as you wanted. She thinks you are too skinny."

Smirking at that Fate replied, "It is only recently that I've regained any kind of appetite. Most of my meds made me nauseous and the pain usually distracted me from feeling hungry. Now that I'm eating again, I'd say your cafe's pastries alone should be enough to have me worrying about my belt."

Rolling her eyes at Fate's comment Nanoha turned her attention to the basket and pulled out two lunch boxes. There were two levels to contain a very generous serving of hamburger steak, four side dishes and beautifully steamed rice. Using the chopsticks like a person born to it Fate took a bite and let out a little moan of delight. Nanoha couldn't help smiling, how was it possible for this woman to be so cute?!

Fate came to a piece of green onions and gave a shudder. She despised the vegetable and poked the other sliced pieces into a corner. She knew she was being a fussy eater but she'd never liked their astringent taste. Nanoha seeing this gave her a look, her eyebrow raised as her eyes traced a path from the dish with the pale diced vegetable then back up to her mouth. It was obvious she was waiting to see her eat the evil foodstuff.

With a sigh of resignation Fate lifted a very small piece to her mouth and chewed. She was pleasantly surprised when it tasted slightly sweet and didn't make her gag. Taking another bite she began to question if she had properly identified the food, maybe it was a scallion?

Amused by the woman's behavior Nanoha commented, "Mama is one of the best chefs in town, you should never turn up your nose at anything she's cooked."

Blushing Fate said, "If she can make my least favorite food taste this good I will trust her cooking implicitly from here on." The smug look on Nanoha's face meant Fate had to tease her back a little, "And how well developed are your cooking skills? Can I trust you not to murder me?"

Shrugging a little Nanoha said with just a hint of annoyance, "Pretty good, I've been helping in the kitchen since I was old enough to hold a knife properly."

Fate imagined a tiny Nanoha with a blade in hand and didn't know if she should be terrified or amused. When Nanoha pulled out a wrapped cinnamon roll Fate decided not to antagonize her friend with teasing behavior. Sitting up and completely at attention, she waited for the baked item to be plated and a fork to be fished out so she could consume it like a civilized person. She wouldn't waste it by being gluttonous and inhaling the treat in three bites. For the love of those sugary delights she'd pretend to be a proper young lady, cherishing each bite as if it were a blessing from the gods on high. She hoped her mom never learned about these things or she'd find herself being blackmailed into all kinds of embarrassing behavior.

After finishing the treat Fate let out a contented sigh, she could really go for a nap right now but that would be rude. Trying to suppress a yawn Fate wondered if taking a walk would wake her back up. Too bad her body already felt like lead and just wanted to melt in the warmth of the afternoon sun. Nanoha could see Fate nodding off and shifted around so her lap was available as a pillow.

Patting her thighs Nanoha offered, "Why don't you lay down for a little while, you need your rest if we are going to do more swimming later."

Horrified, Nanoha thought she could get any more physical activity out of her that day Fate said, "You are a slave driver. Are you trying to kill me?"

Giving the blonde a poke to the side Nanoha said, "No, I'm trying to help you get back in shape. You were the one complaining about how easily winded you got after swimming. Plus if you are going to be eating cinnamon rolls everyday then you have to exercise before you turn into one."

If Fate was going to be honest she wanted to use that lap pillow but was too unsure of herself. That was the kind of thing you did with a lover, and even if she was more than willing she didn't want to trap the girl into something she didn't want. As she wiggled with indecision Nanoha took the matter out of her hands and yanked her down. At first she thought Fate was trying to think up a way to decline which had hurt, then she'd seen the longing in her beautiful burgundy eyes and Nanoha decided if they both wanted it then there was no reason to be shy.

Once Fate's head rested on her thighs she understood why the blonde had hesitated. There was something strangely intimate about this position. Heart pounding and face flushed Nanoha had to look away from her friend. She really shouldn't be thinking any of the risque thoughts now flooding her mind.

Fate felt a matching heat fill her face but couldn't move away, this was far too comfortable and she suspected it would ruin something very fragile growing between them. Shifting a little she made a production to yawn loudly and say, "Just a little nap. Don't do anything weird to me while I'm asleep."

Offended Fate would think she'd do that to a sleeping person Nanoha glared down at her only to see amused burgundy eyes staring up at her. With a poke to a puffed out cheek Fate said, "You really are cute when angry."

Nanoha felt the urge to run away and never ever let the blonde within a hundred meters of her again. But that was her cowardice talking, the part of her that the town had instilled in her with their mocking and dismissive attitude. A much stronger voice inside her said, 'Don't let that blondie get away with teasing us. Show her what happens when you poke the devil.'

Leaning over so her face was hovering just over Fate's Nanoha asked, "So as long as it isn't weird I can do whatever I want?"

Rolling onto her side and clutching at Nanoha's knee to ensure she didn't run away Fate tried to hide her burning face, "I'm taking a nap now. Good night."

Giggling at the response and happy the blonde hadn't taken offense at her behavior she relaxed. She wasn't sure if this was how friends acted together, but she knew this was what she wanted. With a nervous hand she reached out to touch the long flowing hair spread across her lap. She played with silky stands and it wasn't long before Fate had fallen completely asleep, lulled into a refreshing doze that she desperately needed by Nanoha's gentle touch.

Thirty minutes later Fate woke up to see Nanoha was reading, from her upside down vantage point she considered the girl. Of course she was pretty, she'd acknowledged that from day one, but there was something about her sapphire eyes that drew her in. Some days they appeared as pure blue as the summer sky, and at other times they looked as dark as violet storm clouds at sea. Even when this more menacing side of her arose Fate couldn't help wanting to get closer. Like a moth to the flame, Fate felt compelled to toss herself into the inferno.

Nanoha sensed she was being watched and glanced down to see Fate staring at her. Burgundy orbs that usually appeared brooding or distant now appeared clear and relaxed. There was even a small smile to the corner of sensual lips that she couldn't help smiling back. There was an intensity to the moment that made her want to lean down and kiss the woman.

Realizing she was about to make a fool of herself Nanoha turned back to her book, "If you are awake then we can go swimming again."

Groaning Fate sat up, stretching she said, "How about a walk instead? I'm pretty sure you've made me use muscles I forgot I even had."

Nanoha jumped up from the blanket she'd been sitting on, face blazing hot as her sister's earlier lewd comments came rushing back at her. Damn the woman for planting such ideas in her head, Fate was her friend! Her beautiful and incredibly sexy friend who seemed to like flirting with her. Shaking her head she clarified that, playful meaningless flirting. Even if she wanted more it wasn't likely Fate could take her that seriously.

Fate began packing up their little picnic area, she realized her comment had a more risque undertone to it when Nanoha blushed so hard. She hadn't meant to take it that far, of course she hadn't imagined the girl had that much experience so it should have gone over her head. With the way she talked about the locals she'd assumed she'd be a virgin, but maybe she had a boyfriend at the university? The idea wasn't unbelievable, Nanoha was very attractive, yet the idea of some idiot pawing all over her made Fate feel ill.

Hefting herself back to her feet Fate said, "If you don't want to go on a walk with me it's fine, you probably have better things to do than hang out with an old lady."

Catching hold of Fate's hand Nanoha replied shyly, "I can't think of anything better than spending time with you."

Fate returned the grip, both of them were idiots but at least neither of them were going to be stupid and run away from whatever this was between them. Maybe it wasn't a conventional friendship but it felt right to them. Nanoha took the basket from Fate with a smile, it was weird to not be the one carrying everything since that had always been her role with prior girlfr… previously.

Nanoha was happy to walk along the boardwalk with Fate, they were becoming a familiar sight for some of the old timers. Those of a certain age had a warmer attitude towards the girl and would ask after her family. After chatting with a fisherman for a few minutes they moved on which gave Fate an opening to ask, "Is it just the young people here that dislike you?"

Tensing up at the question Nanoha nearly pulled away from Fate but the blonde had tightened her hold on her. Staring at the ground in front of them Nanoha finally answered, "Yeah, mostly. A few of the people my mom's age dislike me because they think I am an agitator. Things are good enough as they are, don't go questioning the powers that be. Man has the right to treat the environment as he pleases, it is his natural position to dominate the lesser creatures on the planet."

Rolling her eyes at this Fate said, "We have a duty to protect that which is entrusted to us. To preserve it for future generations. To make this world a better place, not strip-mine it and turn it into a wasteland."

Nanoha grinned at this and gave her hand a squeeze, Fate smiled back at the cute reaction to her words. She also felt a sliver of worry enter her mind, how easy would it be for some sly tongued man to use this as a method to get into Nanoha's good graces.

Fate felt her protective instincts kick in, and couldn't help asking, "Um Nanoha, do you um date?"

Giving Fate a weird look Nanoha answered, "No one wants me."

Growling with frustration Fate said, "That's not true. Not every man on this planet, let alone this country can be blind and stupid."

Shrugging Nanoha admitted, "At university I've been asked out a few times. But I've never accepted."

Glad to know the male species wasn't as useless as she'd initially feared. Fate also felt vindicated in her concern for the girl, someday one of them will work out how to steal her heart and then there will be blood on the walls if he hurt Nanoha.

Glancing back at the blonde Nanoha continued, "I'm not interested in men."

Not daring to misinterpret that statement Fate said, "I didn't start dating until university. So there is no hurry to rush into anything until you are ready."

Considering this Nanoha said, "I'm pretty sure I'm ready to date, I just haven't been asked by the right person."

Fate fell silent at that, she wouldn't risk their friendship by doing or saying something stupid. Nanoha was becoming too important to throw away on a summer fling, she wanted the girl in her life for many many years to come.

Dropping off the hamper at the cafe the pair were then shooed off by Momoko to explore the town. As they strolled down a quiet residential street Nanoha spotted a playground and tugged Fate towards it. She could tell the woman was lagging and thought this would be a good place to rest. Instead of heading for a bench Fate made a beeline for the swings, today was supposed to be fun so she decided to let her inner child out a little.

Taking one of the swings she challenged, "Let's see who can swing highest."

Snorting at the behavior Nanoha smiled at the woman before taking her own seat, "You are facing an expert, prepare to lose."

It didn't take long for them to be near the apex of what was safe, Nanoha could tell Fate was taking this very seriously and for once in her life she backed down. For her friend's sake she wasn't going to let them dash their brains out when they flipped the swing set.

Slowing herself she said with a laugh, "Fine, fine you win Fate-chan. I'm going to get on the merry go round."

Fate let her elevation slacken and watched the woman run then jump onto the playground equipment. There was an innocent smile as she enjoyed the wind blowing against her as she wheeled around. Chewing the inside of her cheek she wondered what kind of person it would take to make her happy. What was Nanoha looking for in a partner?

After goofing off for a while the pair decided to continue their walk and as they came to a crossroad Fate noticed a sign. A Matsuri was being held nearby the following weekend, there would be all the expected events; games, carnival rides, food stands, music and fireworks. Fate couldn't remember the last time she'd gone to a festival and wondered if her niece and nephew were old enough to enjoy this or if they would be overwhelmed.

With a cute little head tilt Nanoha asked, "Do you want to go?"

Unsure about the wisdom of the idea Fate said, "I don't know. I think my family might like it but I'm worried about the twins."

A bit disheartened that Fate hadn't suggested they go together she decided to ease her concerns in hopes of at least running into the blonde at the event, "Plenty of young children go with their families. There are a couple of places you can watch the fireworks where the noise isn't too bad but you still get a good view."

Smiling at this Fate suggested, "Why don't both our families go together, we could use native guides as it were. Mom hasn't been back in years and she'd probably love to reconnect with at least one old school friend."

Nanoha wondered how smart an idea this was, then again if their mothers were busy chatting with each other they'd have less time to embarrass their children. As for Miyuki, she was sure Reinforce would be enough of a distraction. Her sister would probably have her tongue dragging on the ground when she had a look at the silver haired woman. Amy would keep her husband inline and their children would take up most of their attention so that would leave her with Fate to enjoy the festival. Thinking it through this seemed like a very good idea, this way she couldn't be teased by her sister for going on a date with the blonde.

Smiling at her friend she said, "That sounds wonderful. I haven't gone in years. And I'm sure mama will want the opportunity to see your mom."

They walked for a little while longer before Fate suddenly stopped, "Do you have a yukata?"

Nanoha nearly stumbled when she heard the question, looking at Fate worriedly she asked, "No, I haven't worn one since I was a little girl. Why?"

Fate gave her a very devious smile, tightening her hold on her friend she said, "Well then, we must buy a new yukata."

Leading the woman back to the shopping district she said, "Mom will insist everyone dress up. We might as well take care of this now."

Nanoha thought about the few yukata her mom and sister owned and decided she'd rather buy one new than wear one of theirs. Besides if it meant seeing Fate in one she'd be willing to go along with just about anything she demanded.

The store they entered had a wide variety and the blonde proved to be quite the clothes horse. She outright rejected a whole section of yukata due to the quality of the fabric. Then dismissed even more candidates due to patterns and colors she found too gaudy. Finally she came across a white and blue yukata with the pattern of ocean waves. Holding it up she looked over at Nanoha and confirmed her suspicion, this would be perfect for her. Having the saleswoman package it up along with all the necessary accessories Fate ignored Nanoha's protestations when she found out the price.

Waving away that concern Fate began focusing on finding something for herself to wear. She favored darker colors so when she saw black hiding at the bottom of a stack she pulled it free. It had gold geometric patterns on it which suited her more plain style. The last thing she really wanted was people staring at her more than they already did. Being a foreigner and blonde she would already stand out in the crowds, this hopefully would let her blend into the darkness a little better.

Nanoha wasn't amused by this, she wanted to see Fate in something a little more fitting for her. Taking the yukata she set it back down and said, "That's not quite right, let's look around a bit more."

Huffing at the extra effort Nanoha was making her put into this she refrained from grumbling as she normally would have when shopping with former girlfriends. Instead she pouted at the woman playfully before going along with her wishes. She just hoped the woman wasn't going to make her wear anything ridiculous. After looking over deep purples and burgundy colored yukata Nanoha didn't feel anything really fit what she was looking for until she came to a stack hidden away in a corner. Third from the top she found it, black like the first one Fate had found but this one had two goldfish printed on the back and the pattern of ripples with delicate water plants. Considering she would be wearing white this would make a lovely contrast and their theming would match.

As if thinking the same thing Fate smiled and said in a teasing tone, "I concede, this one is better. Maybe your stubbornness is a good thing, sometimes."

Having the clothing delivered to their respective homes was a nominal fee so Fate paid for it so they wouldn't be burdened with the boxes.

Nanoha was still annoyed that Fate had insisted on paying for hers but the blonde had eased her conscience by saying, "Consider it a gift from a very grateful friend. You've made this summer the happiest I can remember in more years than I want to admit."

The fact that their friendship had brought the woman any measure of relief from her depression and angst meant a lot. But she also wanted to give back something equally meaningful, Fate wasn't the only one whose life had improved since their meeting.

Making their way back to the boardwalk they eventually came upon a small vendor, she had to pause at a new display. Nanoha felt her mood drop as she saw a necklace just like one her father had given her before his death. She'd treasured it and when it went missing it had devastated her. She had her suspicions on what had happened to it but after her blow up at school she didn't dare make accusations.

Fate looked over the case and almost immediately picked up the item in question, watching as the blonde held up the pink pearl necklace so it caught the late afternoon light Nanoha wondered if she might buy it. The price tag on it wasn't exorbitant but it also wasn't a cheap trinket. Placing it back down Fate scanned a few more items before picking up another necklace, the yellowish triangular pendant brought a rush of memories to her. The jeweler had attached a piece of antique butterscotch Baltic amber to a silver chain. Considering both Fate chewed her cheek, then she decided against purchasing anything.

Walking along Nanoha couldn't help commenting, "That necklace was very pretty."

Humming at that Fate looked out at the ocean, "My father bought me a necklace like that once. He said amber suited me," she paused to lean against the railing as she frowned into the past, "I gave it to my… my ex. She never gave it back."

Resting next to her friend Nanoha said, "I understand how painful it can be to lose a keepsake. My dad bought me a necklace before he died, I lost it on the beach."

Fate looked at her, there was a strange timber to her voice. Instinctively she knew there was more to the story, "What kind of necklace?"

Picking at the wood railing Nanoha frowned, "A pink pearl. He used to call me that, his little Pearl. It was my most treasured object."

Squeezing her hand, Fate said, "We might not have the objects they left us but we still have the memories."

Eyes shiny, Nanoha smiled at her, "Yeah, I miss him so much. I don't know what I'm going to do if mama ever starts dating again. She deserves to be happy but I can't stand the idea of another man trying to take his place."

Nodding at that Fate agreed, "Oh yes, mom has been single for a while too. I can tell she's lonely sometimes and I want her to be happy. But I think I'm going to end up hating any man who tries to date her. She's gone out to parties for work but she hasn't met anyone who can even hold a candle to dad."

Taking a fortifying breath Nanoha said, "Well, at the very least they can reconnect with each other. Mama doesn't have many close friends so this could be very good for her."

Just then Fate's phone went off, stepping aside she excused herself, "Speak of the devil, one sec."

Nanoha looked at her watch, it was already getting to be late afternoon, best to head home and help with the clean up. Getting to spend the entire day with Fate had been amazing, and proved to be more relaxing than she'd imagined. It amazed her how comfortable she could feel with the blonde. But all good things have to come to an end, even if she'd rather drag the woman home with her and never let her go.

A shouted, "WHAT?!" caught Nanoha's attention. Fate now looked agitated and her voice strained, "Why are they here?"

Then there was a growl in her throat as she sighed, "Fine, I'll be home as soon as possible. Don't let them wander around. Bye"

Rubbing her temples Fate sighed, "So much for my quiet peaceful life." Looking over at her friend the blonde now had a look of resignation, "Nanoha, I might not be able to meet you for the next few days. I… I have visitors. Hopefully I can get rid of them quickly."

Concerned for Fate, Nanoha asked, "Will you be okay? Do you need help?"

Tensing up the blonde said, "Don't come near the house. I don't want you exposed to these… these people. I can deal with them."

Nanoha wasn't sure if she should feel offended or not. Did Fate not think her capable of defending herself? Or was she possibly embarrassed by her?

Petting soft auburn hair Fate tried to soothe them both, "It will be just for a few days. I… it's my old mates from service. They can be very tactless. And well, you are a beautiful young lady, you don't need to deal with their stupidity."

Catching hold of Fate's hand Nanoha said, "I can deal with tactless idiots. I don't want to miss out on any time with you. There are only so many days left before you, um you have to leave."

It was like a stray kitten had just mauled her, her heart was in tatters, there was no way Fate was going to miss one day with her friend. Nodding she said, "I'll see you in the morning then, one way or the other."

Nanoha hugged her tightly before saying in a tense voice, "Until tomorrow."

Limping away Fate prayed she could find a way to keep the idiots away from Nanoha. The girl deserved better than that lot, if she was going to be stolen away then it had best be by a gentleman of distinction not by a slobbering idiot.

Nanoha watched until Fate disappeared into the crowd then tried to think of what to do next. Her mind was in a turmoil, tomorrow she might have to deal with people who knew Fate better than she did. Would she be left out? Would these old friends displace her? Heaven knew she didn't think of herself as the best of company and these men had a better claim on Fate's time and attention.

Walking back towards the cafe Nanoha saw the jewelry dealer closing up shop. Before she could stop herself she rushed over and made a very rash purchase. It was dumb and would probably make Fate uncomfortable. Yet she wanted to be able to give her something to remember her by when the summer ended, and if she so happened to buy her a gift that would also remind her of something precious she lost then all the better. Maybe, just maybe it could let some of those good feelings she associated with her father to transfer to her. It was stupid and selfish, but she really didn't want to be forgotten.

Making her way home she turned her mind to how she was going to convince her mom and sister to join her at the festival. Little did she know how easy her goal would be.