A/N: I hope you enjoy this chapter, please leave a comment/review... thanks to one left I might have been inspired to go back to a prior story to add a new scene. I really do need to keep my smut writing skills honed so hmmmmm. Heh heh I do love writing those kinds of things for this pairing, but sadly we will have to wait and see if this version of NanoFate will get to that point. Thanks for reading, stay safe out there ~Phoenixnext

~Chapter 5~

Entering the house Fate had her stoic officer face on, she had no idea why the idiots had showed up but she really didn't appreciate them barging in. When Lindy saw how stiff she was she caught her daughter by the arm, "Darling, whatever is the matter? I thought you would be happy to see your old mates again."

She begrudgingly admitted, "Maybe a few weeks ago I would have been more excited to see them but now they are just going to get in the way."

Trying to restrain a smirk of knowing Lindy commented, "Ah, I see. So you don't want to introduce them to Nanoha I gather? Vice and Verossa are both moving up in the ranks and could use a steady intelligent woman in their life. You never know, playing a bit of matchmaker could be fun."

Growling Fate said, "Neither of them are anywhere near good enough for her. Damnable fools wouldn't know how to treat her properly."

Eyes gleaming with suppressed glee Lindy couldn't help further teasing, "I don't know, Verossa just made Captain. He has matured a great deal since I first met him, he'd make a fine husband."

Rolling her eyes Fate grumbled, "Took him damn well long enough, I made captain before I was twenty-five. He doesn't know how to apply himself properly, no way I would trust him with Nanoha."

Biting the inside of her cheek to stop herself smiling Lindy then said, "Well, you have to admit they are both very handsome men. Nanoha might not settle with them but being seen with either of them could only improve her position in town."

Glaring at her mother now Fate said in a testy tone, "Nanoha doesn't need the approval of the resident idiots of this town. Especially if it can only come by being seen as a trophy girlfriend on the arm of a moron Lieutenant or Captain."

Just then a rich masculine voice called out, "What's this? Are you hiding women from us again? So selfish Fate, whatever happened to the bonds of camaraderie?"

Clenching her fists Fate said in a dead level tone, "If you mess with my friend I will bury you six feet under. Fuck the bonds of camaraderie, Nano… She's… Just drop it."

With a snicker another male voice spoke up, "Haha I told you. You can't keep the Major down. She's been out of the hospital less than a year and already got the girls swooning at her feet. And just as greedy as ever, not willing to share even a tidbit."

Now bracketed by the two taller men she was then caught by the arms and practically carried into the library as Verossa said, "Now then Major, you have to tell us all about your new friend. Does she have a sister? Maybe a few cute friends?"

Groaning with aggravation Fate knew she'd have to placate their curiosity before they'd be willing to leave her alone. Maybe in the process she could set them up for a wild goose chase also, it would serve them right. After exploring the town with Nanoha she even had a few ideas on where to send them, far far away from where she planned to be in the morning. If she used the right tone of voice on them they'd both fall back on muscle memory and do exactly as she commanded. Relaxing a little Fate decided it was time to prove she was still the top dog.

After dinner with her two former subordinates Fate felt herself relaxing a little. She had missed the two idiots and it was like a small piece of normality had returned. Laughing as they complained about wet behind the ears corporals and the inanities of out of touch Colonels.

Sharing a drink with them on the veranda she sighed, "You know, I don't actually miss it as much as I thought I would."

Verossa snorted, "Of course not, you are smarter than most career officers. Though there was a time I feared you'd let your brain rot."

Fate knew immediately what he meant, climbing the ranks towards the end hadn't brought her the fulfillment or the sense of worth she thought it would. She'd been happier as a Captain with her unit, it was her ex who'd pushed her with her cutting comments about her settling. Frowning as she stared out at the ocean she wondered, not for the first time, if that had been just an excuse to get her out of the house. When had the cheating begun?

Vice gave her a little nudge, "Hey don't go all moody on us. Tell us about this new friend you have."

Growling at this Fate said, "She's a friend. Too young for you so shut it."

Grinning evilly the man shot back, "Uh oh, is the Major turning into a cradle robber?"

Tensing at the remark and having no retort she considered retreating. Then Verossa stepped in, "She can't be too young, otherwise you wouldn't be wasting your time with her."

Hunching up Fate admitted, "She's in her early twenties. Still at university, bright and so lively. I've never met anyone like her."

Gripping her glass tightly she stared at the amber liquid it contained and whispered, "She's like something out of a fairy tale, people like her shouldn't exist."

The two men shared a look, they had never seen their superior like this, not even when she'd been engaged. She looked like a woman in love, and it gave them both a small surge of hope. It meant she'd recovered from her heartbreak with that woman. Any sign of Fate moving on was one to be encouraged.

Vice gave her long ponytail a light tug before asking in a jokey tone, "So when do we get to meet your princess charming?"

Rolling her eyes at the man she threw back the last of her drink before saying in a dead level voice, "Good Night. I trust you two will be leaving at first light, no need to dally around here."

Verossa leaned against the railing, "Actually we will be leaving early, we have to report in at post by 0700. But we will be free next weekend, maybe we can come visit again."

The last thing she wanted was this pair gate crashing her da… outing. In a firm voice she said, "Sunday dinner. If I see either of you before that I'll drown you and feed you to the sharks."

Vice leaned over to his friend worriedly and asked, "Are there sharks?"

Shrugging Verossa answered, "Who knows, but even if there isn't the Major would requisition some just for the task."

Huffing a laugh Fate gave both men a half hug before saying with finality, "Good night."

The next few days Nanoha was a bit more clingy than usual. Fate didn't comment on it as she enjoyed the feelings that came with the girl hanging off her arm. The impromptu hugs and treats Nanoha brought for them to enjoy gave her a feeling of contentment she didn't think possible. It was almost like they were a couple, except unlike her prior girlfriends Nanoha actually wanted more than just her money.

Fate was appreciative that Nanoha's family was giving her more time off. Only having the girl go in to help with the lunch rush. Letting her go always caused an ache in her chest but the bright smile Nanoha gave her as she said, "See you tomorrow Fate-chan," eased the hurt and helped her refrain from acting like a spoiled child.

Walking home the day of the festival she could feel her jitters getting the best of her. Rubbing her mouth she tried not to laugh at herself, she felt like one of those teenage manga protagonists getting excited about a date where she'll get to see Nanoha in a yukata and watch fireworks with the girl who was slowly worming her way into her heart. Deciding to take a detour to work off a bit of her nervous energy she found herself in front of the jewelry vendor again. Pausing to look over the display she saw the amber pendant was gone.

There was a slight sense of disappointment at that but she hadn't been really interested in buying it. Instead her eyes focused on the pink pearl pendant and she began arguing with herself about the wisdom of purchasing it. Would Nanoha feel comfortable accepting this as a gift? She'd made such a fuss when she paid for her yukata but then again she could say it was necessary as an accessory.

Chewing her cheek she frowned deeply which made the salesman ask, "Everything alright Miss?"

Unwittingly she glared at him as she internally panicked. She turned away and took two limping steps then halted. Reaching into her pocket she pulled out her wallet and in a voice harsh with nerves said, "I'll take that one!"

Confused by her behavior but happy for the sale the man packaged up the item and ran her card. Stuffing everything back into her pockets she stomped off. Her heart was now pounding as she considered how dumb her actions had just been. Nanoha would likely refuse and maybe even be offended. She had no right to buy her something so personal.

Arriving home she avoided everyone in the house to take a shower then brood in her room. She wanted to give Nanoha everything, see her smile and hear that adorable giggle. Yet she also knew she was too old and broken to be a worthy suitor. Sighing, she crawled back into bed for a nap, it would be best to concentrate on the here and now, not a future that can never be.

Nanoha stared at her mother and sister, the pair were practically wrestling as Momoko resisted her daughter's attempt to apply eye makeup.

Growling Miyuki said, "Mom! You are going to be seen publicly with one of the most important families in town. You have to put in a little effort, you don't want your friend to think you've become an old maid."

Huffing a little at this vanity Momoko replied, "Lindy-san never cared about such things. She knows there are more important things than makeup and frills."

Nanoha silently agreed with her mother, both Lindy and Fate held personal virtues higher than physical beauty. Considering Fate had only ever really seen her without cosmetics and seemed to find her attractive did a lot to bolster her confidence. Being liked for merely her appearance, especially by the men at her university, made her feel cheap.

Miyuki made a face before conceding, "Fine, but you'll at least let me put up your hair."

Rolling her eyes at the fuss Momoko decided not to argue this point and sat down. Nanoha checked her watch and prayed this wouldn't take long.

Thirty minutes later they were leaving and Nanoha was worriedly staring at her phone. Fate hadn't messaged her to let her know they had arrived at their meeting spot. Had they changed their minds? It was only because her mother had wanted to see her former friend again that she'd agreed to close the cafe early.

Finding their bench empty made her heart sink until she heard a familiar voice call out to her, "Nanoha!"

Turning she saw the most amazing sight, Fate in her yukata. Her long hair was pulled back with a black silk ribbon and she was using a fancy gold and black cane this evening. She looked refined and way out of Nanoha's league. Yet there was a special smile reserved just for her and a softening to burgundy eyes that let her know Fate cared deeply for her. The only question Nanoha had was if those feelings could go as far as romantic love. She was coming to understand her own wants and desires the longer she spent time with the blonde, and the realization that she wanted a relationship with her was becoming increasingly clear.

Unable to stop herself she rushed over to Fate and gave her a strong hug, only lingering in the grasp because Fate refused to release her. Tucking her against her side she then made the introductions. Lindy and Momoko didn't really need this but it was good manners. The teal haired woman bowed her head and put her hand out to shake, only for Momoko to prove she was Nanoha's mother. Ignoring the outstretched hand she captured Lindy in a tight hug and she whispered, "My goodness you have gotten more beautiful with age. That can't be fair."

Blushing slightly Lindy teased back, "Nowhere near as lovely as you Moe-chin."

Giving the teal haired woman a smack on the arm as she laughed, "You would remember that ridiculous nickname."

Smiling at the easy way her former friend had fallen back into their old ways Lindy took her hand to continue the introductions, "Moe-chin, this is my son Chrono, his wife Amy, and my adorable grandchildren, Liera and Karel," then pulling a silver haired woman forward, "This is Fate's cousin, Reinforce Eins."

Shaking hands with the adults and giving the children a little wave Momoko was very impressed with the family. Wanting to show off her own she pulled her over to her children, "Lindy-san, you've met my daughter Nanoha, let me introduce you to Miyuki. Unfortunately my son no longer lives in Uminari, he is currently living overseas for work."

Looking over the young woman in front of her Lindy had to say, "Very nice to meet you, forgive me but you do take after your father as much as your sister does your mother. He was a lovely man, I'm very sorry for your loss."

Blinking in surprise, Miyuki commented, "I wasn't aware you knew my father."

Laughing at this Lindy said, "Your father was an upperclassman to both myself and your mother but very popular. I only ever met him two or three times due to student council duties but I will say he left a very positive impression on me. It is no wonder he stole your mother's heart."

Momoko commented, "It is a pity you never came back to settle in Uminari after your wedding to Clyde, I'm sure our children could have been great friends."

Taking a quick glance at Nanoha and Fate, still connected at the hip, Lindy shot back, "They already are. I must say your little Nanoha has made a big impression on my daughter. She really is a chip off the old block," then winking at her friend she whispered conspiratorially with a eyebrow wiggle, "a new generation of White Devil if all the rumors are true."

Really not wanting this to come out Momoko grabbed a hold of Lindy and said aloud, "Come along, there is a lot to see at the festival."

Shrugging the group followed their elders, Chrono with his family immediately after them, then Miyuki with Reinforce chatting, lastly Nanoha and Fate bringing up the rear.

As they got to the festival grounds it got harder to stay together, moving off to the side Lindy said, "Why don't we break into smaller groups for a little while then meet up when it is time for the fireworks. Fate, Nanoha-san if you could coordinate with everyone by text."

Momoko gave her daughters a little wave then linking arms with Lindy disappeared into the crowd. The younger generation stared at one another in shock, they had thought the mothers would stick with them.

Sighing Chrono said, "She's your mother. Headstrong brat."

Glaring at her brother Fate replied, "Pretty sure you're more like her than I am, genetics tells."

Miyuki not wanting to get stuck with her little sister and her stray hooked Reinforce's arm and proving she at least took after her mother said, "Come on Rein, my mom's right, there's a lot to see."

Watching as her cousin was shanghaied Fate smirked at the worried look the quiet woman gave her. Waving happily at her she called out, "Have fun."

Chrono gave Fate a hard nudge to her side, "Ah is that safe?"

Snorting the blonde said, "She'll be fine. Besides, better her than me."

Amy looked at her sister-in-law and her friend, deciding to help things along grabbed her husband, "Come on let's go find something to eat."

Nanoha was working hard to restrain her smile, just as she hoped she was now alone with Fate. The blonde had a worried look on her face as she grumbled over everyone separating, "Great, it is going to be like herding cats trying to coordinate a meet up spot."

Shrugging at this future problem Nanoha took Fate's hand and said, "How about we enjoy ourselves for now. The fireworks don't start for a couple of hours."

Squeezing the hand in her own Fate nodded, "Right. No need to borrow trouble."

Nanoha laughed at the stuffed toy Fate handed her, it was a pale pink fluffy bunny with a bright blue bow. Hugging it she said, "I will treasure it forever."

Eyes warm taking in the cuteness Fate said, "I wonder, would it be alright if I gave you another gift?"

Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear Nanoha licked her lips nervously, "Only if I can give you one in return."

Being jostled by the crowd Nanoha pulled her friend off the busy path to a side road where no one would bother them. Reaching into her purse she pulled out a packet only to stop in surprise when she saw Fate was now holding a similar bag.

Laughing softly Fate said, "I think we both had the same idea. I'm glad."

Handing over her gift and accepting her own from Nanoha, Fate opened the bag and felt her heartbeat trip. She'd actually bought the amber necklace, running a finger over the smooth surface she could feel tears welling up.

In a hushed voice Nanoha asked, "Fate-chan are you okay?"

Smiling and laughing to cover her overwhelming emotions Fate nodded, "Yeah, thanks. It means a lot to me that you'd… thanks. Um open yours, I bet you can't guess what's inside."

Nervous Nanoha opened the packet and saw the necklace that reminded her of the one lost. Lifting it to her lips she kissed it and in a voice raw with emotion said, "Thank you. You didn't have to."

Taking the chain from the younger woman Fate said, "Here, let me help you."

Fastening it around Nanoha's pale throat the woman felt a strong desire to kiss the exposed nape. She wanted to mark the pretty skin with love bites that would declare to the world that Nanoha belonged to her. Stepping away she shuffled her feet as she tried valiantly to control her rioting hormones. Goddamn things sure picked a great time to show up again, she was almost certain she was dead from the waist down then Nanoha showed up to prove her wrong.

Touching the pendant Nanoha felt a surge of happiness, not at the gift itself really but at the fact that Fate would take the trouble to buy it for her. Turning around she couldn't help herself and threw her arms around Fate's neck and pulled her down to kiss her cheek, "Thank you so much."

Letting her go before she could ruin things Nanoha then thrust the bunny into Fate's hands before taking the amber necklace from her, "Here my turn to help you."

Clasping it securely Nanoha couldn't help hugging Fate again from behind, pressing her cheek to the taller woman's back she whispered, "I'm so happy I got to meet you."

Not daring to act on her emotions Fate pulled Nanoha forward then leading back towards the crowds she said in a croaky voice, "Me too."

In a desperate attempt to keep things platonic Fate decided eating was boring and unromantic enough to distract her. Getting to a food stand she growled, "Hungry."

Nanoha might not know all of Fate's moods perfectly but she could see the faint blush on her cheeks and noticed she was refusing to meet her eyes. How very cute it was to see shy Fate, and wanting to see more of it she decided a little teasing couldn't hurt.

Once they got their food Nanoha maneuvered them to an empty bench off the main walkway where it was quiet, bowing her head to say, "Thank you for the meal," she then took a bite. Fate not thinking anything of it also began eating only for Nanoha to call out her name. Turning her head she saw a morsel of food being held out to her. Immediately her face heated up and she wondered why Nanoha was being such a tease.

Wiggling the bite of food a little Nanoha said, "Come on Fate-chan, say ahhh."

Fate felt her cheeks burning and she wondered if she could melt into a puddle of embarrassed happiness. She never had a girlfriend who did this, most of the women she'd been with were too mature for such behavior. If she was honest with herself she liked being spoiled, especially by Nanoha. Eyes averted she leaned forward and opened her mouth. Being fed was a very new experience and one she might have preferred being done in privacy but she wasn't going to refuse. The smile on Nanoha's face made it worth it though once she got used to the treatment she decided she shouldn't be the only one to enjoy this.

Picking up her fork she speared a bite and then held it out in return, now sporting her signature smirk she teased, "Say ahhh, Nanoha needs to eat too, or are you trying to fatten me up?"

The auburn haired woman flushed like a ripe tomato before turning away completely to pout, "No fair teasing me Fate-chan!"

Laughing at the cute behavior Fate poked a puffed out cheek before saying in a baby voice, "Pwease Nanoha, just wun ittle bite."

Glancing over Nanoha saw the blonde was now making an over the top pleading face which made her giggle. Giving the woman a soft whack to the head she said, "You are such a bully."

Then she leaned in with her mouth open, the concession made the blonde's smile widened and she immediately fed her friend a bite of food.

The next few minutes turned into a lovey dovey mess of the two feeding each other while grinning like fools. A few locals who knew Nanoha saw the exchange and quickly moved away from the incriminating scene. No way were they going to antagonize the girl by standing around and staring at her during such an intimate moment. No one who'd ever seen her go full on White Devil would ever want to witness it again, let alone be the focus of her wrath.

Finishing the last bite Nanoha laid down the plastic fork in the food wrapper and sighed with contentment, "Thank you, I… I've never done something like that before.

Giving the younger woman a nudge with her shoulder Fate admitted, "Me neither."

Looking over at the blonde Nanoha had to ask, "Your ex didn't… um why not?"

Taking the trash from Nanoha, Fate got up and threw it away in order to avoid answering the question. When she turned back to her friend she could see the confusion and curiosity still burning in sapphire orbs. Grumbling a little she limped away a few steps then stopped, swallowing her pride she answered, "Because I wasn't worth the effort."

Hugging Fate from behind Nanoha denied this, "That's not true. Spoiling Fate-chan is a wonderful thing. That woman will never know what she was missing."

Covering Nanoha's hands with her own Fate smiled gratefully, this girl was just too sweet. Making a scoffing noise to hide her emotional response she pulled Nanoha to stand by her side as she intertwined their fingers, "You have a strange definition of wonderful."

It was only because she could see the faint blush on Fate's cheeks that she didn't get offended. Teasing back she swung their arms as she said, "No stranger than your definition of a good time, I can't see why you enjoy spending so much time with me."

Shaking her head at this attempt at fishing for compliments Fate said, "Maybe I'm just a masochist."

A flash of very lewd imaginary flooded Nanoha's mind before she could stop herself. Biting the inside of her cheek Nanoha focused on the ground as she forced the most unappealing mental images into the forefront of her mind instead. Counting to ten she prayed Fate didn't make anymore risque comments. Making their way to the fairgrounds Nanoha decided it'd be safer to play another game than let Fate find more food.

This time she found a shooting booth and decided to provoke a challenge, "Want to see who can get the highest points?"

Fate's eyes gleamed with competitive fire, handing over a few bills she took the air rifle in exchange before saying, "Be ready to lose."

With a steady hand and keen eye Fate hit every target, only stopping when she ran out of ammo. Handing the rifle back over Fate stepped aside so Nanoha could take her place, the fact that the girl didn't seem the least bit fazed by the results made Fate curious. Taking the reloaded weapon Nanoha lined up her shots and in quick succession hit all the targets with equal ease.

The man running the booth stared at them both and asked, "Best out of three? I can move a few of the targets to make it harder."

Grinning like a Cheshire cat Nanoha immediately agreed, leaving Fate to nod silently. Never had anyone matched her in sharpshooting skills, she never expected a civilian to even come close. Especially not with some wonky air gun which she'd had to compensate for the obvious poor maintenance and damaged scope. The next round would prove her skills were superior to her friend's she was sure of it!

Knocking out each target with quick smooth motions Nanoha couldn't help admiring Fate's form. Once finished she smirked at her friend and said, "Let's see what you got," then gave her a playful poke to the cheek.

Smacking away the hand, Nanoha took the reloaded weapon and began her turn. From the corner of her eye she could see Fate leaning against the counter watching her. Glancing over briefly she stuck her tongue at the blonde then took a steadying breath. Pop, pop, pop, she hit each target easily, only hesitating when coming to two targets set further back to ensure she took the distance properly into consideration. Again she matched Fate shot for shot and the blonde was feeling a mix of pride and competitiveness war within her. She'd never met a woman who could match her on every level, it was beginning to make her a little horny.

Gulping a little at the growing crowd around the booth the employee said, "One more round ladies, to break the tie then I need to let the next customer have a turn."

Around them Fate could see about a dozen people now hovering nearby. By the looks of them they were around Nanoha's age and seemed to muttering amongst themselves about the show they were putting on. When her friend began to move away to hide in the shadows Fate caught her arm and said, "You have to watch, got to make sure I don't cheat."

Feeling unsure Nanoha kept her voice low, "Fate-chan wouldn't cheat."

The mumbling around them grew and it annoyed Fate into admitting her true feelings, "We're here together, don't wander off and leave me alone."

Squeezing the older woman's hand Nanoha whispered back, "Never."

With the targets moved once again Fate lined up her shot and began her systematic demolition. Taking out the hardest one hiding in the corner at a very bad angle she then heard someone say, "Leave it to the devil to hangout with someone just as violent."

Tensing Fate wondered how much it would hurt if she shot the asshole with one of the pelts, no she had to control herself. Attacking these fools would only make things worse for her friend. Moving on to the next target she tried to focus but the whispering kept reaching her ears, mean words that judged and ridiculed. Burning anger made it difficult for her to maintain her moral high ground and not just beat proper respect into the small minded bigots.

Nanoha could see how upset Fate was becoming and wished she could do something. She was about to speak when there was a clink as the air rifle was laid down on the counter, there were still two more shots remaining, this forfeiture frightening her.

With a forced grin Fate said to the booth manager, "Looks like between the two of us we have earned your grand prize. No point in playing this game further. Just hand it over and we will let your other customers have their turn."

He looked at the crowd and realized it was probably best if he got these women away from his booth as quickly as possible. Pulling down the oversized toy he handed it over and said, "Good shooting."

The sour look on Fate's face as she pushed through a crowd of young men ensured they didn't say anything when Nanoha followed behind her. Suddenly she regretted coming out to this stupid event, she should have known some loud mouth would make a scene. The last thing she wanted was to expose Nanoha to more of this vitriol and stupidity. The loud thump of her cane hitting the pavement as her aggression was taken out on the stick gave fair warning to those ahead of her to move. She hated those ugly words, and the fact that Nanoha was also being targeted by them because she was associated with her just made her fury grow. Anyone hurting the girl would learn exactly how crippled she really was, she might not be able to run but that didn't mean her fists didn't work.

They'd reached the other side of the festival grounds where art displays had been put up, other than a few elderly couples it was deserted. Deciding now was a safe place to talk, Nanoha reached for Fate's arm. There was a flinching and her body went tense before Fate realized who was touching her. Turning she still had a thunderous look that should have frightened the younger woman.

Instead she stepped forward and rubbed the frown lines on the blonde's forehead, "Don't make faces Fate-chan."

The fact that Nanoha could say that while wearing a little pout was all that was needed to relieve her foul mood. Sighing, she released her tension before wrapping an arm around the young woman. Hugging her she said, "Sorry, I'm not angry at you. I… I hate people, small minded hypocritical people."

Laughing as she squeezed back Nanoha replied, "I've learned to ignore them, they feed off your emotions. Don't give them a rise and they slink off to find someone else to harass."

Growling at this Fate let Nanoha go, "No…" then she stopped as if realizing what she was about to say was completely counterproductive. Lowering her head she stared at the top of the plush animal she now carried, "I know they aren't worth my attention. I just wish I could do something to change their minds."

Taking the creature from her friend Nanoha held it up as she said, "Papa used to say, living your best life is the greatest revenge on the naysayers. None of those idiots could hold a candle to you, no need to let them pull you down to their level."

Then letting a little of her own feelings rise to the surface she said, "Though personally I agree with you. Punching a few of them until a little sense was knocked into them would make me feel a lot better. Especially since they dragged you into it. They know bothering me won't get a rise but… well this is the first time I've had a friend since middle school so it's harder for me to keep my temper." Biting her cheek, "Of course hitting them would cause more harm than good." Huffing a little in aggravation she sighed, "I promised my parents to never make a scene like I did in High School again."

Nanoha was now hugging both plush toys in the effort to control her own temper. Fate took in her words and realized all the ugliness from earlier hadn't been aimed at her, it had been a ploy to hurt Nanoha. Leave it to her to be so self-involved to not see that, what reason would those fools have to talk badly about a stranger? Knowing she could be used as a weapon against Nanoha hurt but it also meant she had a duty to make sure it didn't happen again. Protecting Nanoha's smile was the most important thing in the world to her.

Searching for a way to bring back that smile the blonde flounder for a moment then really took in the giant plush the younger woman was holding, the thing had the goofiest smile and big eyes that gave it a childish charm, unable to help herself she smiled back at it and started laughing. It was an Axolotl, the strange looking thing was cute, she'd initially thought it was some kind of lizard or cartoon character.

Reaching out to tug on one of the frills she said, "God this thing is goofy."

Offended on behalf of the toy Nanoha pulled him away, "Leave Axle alone, he's cute."

Snorting at the defensive behavior Fate decided to tease, "He's half mine too, you can't steal my child just because I'm teasing him."

Blushing scarlet at the idea of sharing a child with Fate, Nanoha nearly dropped both toys. Grinning at the reaction Fate continued, "Maybe you are right, he is kinda cute. Just like his mama."

Glaring at Fate now Nanoha shot back, "Does that mean you think I'm goofy looking too?"

Lips twitching with mischief Fate said suavely, "Of course not, you're beautiful. Unfortunately our son isn't as attractive, but at least he seems to have your charm."

Pushing the stuffed toy into Fate's arms Nanoha said, "Baka, here take your son. Just be nice to him."

Hugging the amphibian the blonde smirked, "And just like his mama he is very huggable."

Huffing Nanoha walked away from her friend as she grumbled, "And to think I was worried about her."

Fate smiled at the toy, "You know she's a wonderful person. You should be very grateful to have her as your mama. I'm sure she will give you a proper home."

The mental picture of a home where she could live everyday with Nanoha flashed through her mind and she clutched at the toy. That was a very dangerous idea, one better not thought about.

Catching up with the younger woman Fate made the stuffed animal wave at her before saying in a childish voice, "Fate-mama is sorry for teasing you. Please don't be mad at her."

Biting her lip Nanoha refused to be placated but it was a struggle to hold onto her righteous anger.

In a sing-song voice Fate called out to her, holding the toy's head under her chin she made puppy eyes, "Na-No-Ha."

Shaking her head she said, "It won't work."

Smiling at the stubborn woman Fate admitted, "Maybe it is wrong of me to say this, but I really like it when you blush and pout."

Glaring at the blonde Nanoha was speechless, how could anyone find this behavior attractive?!

Poking a soft cheek with one of the toy's stubby arms Fate said, "Very Cute."

Exasperated with the blonde's teasing Nanoha turned her head to the side to avoid eye contact as she said in a strained tone, "I don't appreciate that, I'm not a child."

Tucking the toy under one arm Fate tried to think of a way to ease the tension between them without admitting to her true feelings. Shuffling a little with nerves she finally said, "I know you aren't a child. You are a lovely young woman, and someone I really enjoy spending time with. I think you are the first person I've ever felt this comfortable with, if it isn't too presumptuous to say, I consider you my best friend."

Spinning back Nanoha stared at Fate, searching her face for deception or signs of this being another tease. All she found was earnest hope in deep burgundy eyes. Hugging her friend she whispered back, "I feel the same. I just didn't want to assume anything, you probably have tons of friends and I'm… mff!"

Fate cut off Nanoha's ramble with a hand over her mouth, "No, don't demean yourself. You can have no idea how special you are to me. You tolerate my moodiness, you can make me laugh, and I can relax around you and not feel like I'm being judged. That's just what you give me, then there is the fact that you are intelligent, kind, generous and beautiful. It seems to me that I've gotten the better end of the deal out of our friendship."

Pulling Fate's hand away Nanoha could feel the heat burning in her cheeks but had to get her say in, "You don't judge me either, even after I told you what I did. You treat me better than anyone else has, conscientious and considerate, even when you are being a bully there isn't any malice or evil intent."

Shaking her head Fate said, "I'd never want to hurt you. If I ever say or do anything that does tell me, I want us to be friends for as long as you'll have me."

Holding on to the blonde's hand Nanoha looked at their entwined fingers she couldn't help saying quietly, "Be careful, I might keep you forever."

Heart pounding Fate tugged Nanoha onto the path that would lead them back to the main festival grounds, over the growing noise her words were barely audible, "I'd like that."

Once Nanoha found a good spot to watch the fireworks they sent out text messages for everyone to join them. After that it didn't take long for the group to come together, Nanoha was pleasantly surprised to see her mom had her arm linked with Lindy's as they chatted and walked. There was a glow to her that she hadn't seen in a very long time. Obviously she needed a good friend and Lindy seemed to be more than happy to fill that void. The funniest thing to see was Miyuki was now carrying a giant octopus toy which she was struggling to hold so it didn't trail on the ground or block her view.

Dropping it on the grass she then sat on the thing before saying, "Your stray cat's cousin is unbelievable." Noticing the two toys in Nanoha's arms she grinned, "Mines bigger."

Rolling her eyes at this jab Nanoha said, "Axle was a team effort and I happen to think he is very cute. Better than that monster you're sitting on."

While the sisters bickered Fate and Rein helped Amy with the twins, Chrono was still glued to some gaming stall where he hoped to win a toy. It was apparently a family tradition to see who could win the largest toy between the siblings, it was a contest he usually lost.

Laying down a blanket on the grass the blonde was then handed the children by her cousin. Seeing them immediately swarm her she smirked, "I see you've got this, I'm going to see to the other fussy child in our group."

Fate saw the silver haired woman settle down next to Miyuki and Nanoha. Mentally she pouted, it wasn't fair! Keeping the pair on her lap she couldn't help glancing over to her friend and wishing it was her cuddling into her instead. As the rest of the family group settled down Fate was surprised when Nanoha left her sister and came to sit by her instead.

Opening her arms to Liera she smiled when the little girl left her aunt and came to sit on her lap instead. This gave her a good excuse to scoot a little closer to the blonde so the siblings could still play with one another. This development had Fate smiling and had another surge of wishful thinking flood her mind. Pinching her thigh she mentally scolded herself, 'There is no way Nanoha will ever want a family with me.'

Lindy seeing this byplay nudged her friend and whispered, "They look good together. I hope you don't mind."

Taking in the scene Momoko felt a surge of hope, "Only if this turns out to be more than a summer fling. I don't want my daughter hurt."

Keeping her voice low Lindy confided, "Fate isn't the fling type, and seeing them together makes me think that if given half a chance they could really be happy. Your daughter has the amazing ability to encourage mine, I've never seen her this lively. Even before the accident she wasn't inclined to laugh or smile as much as she is now."

Leaning closer to the teal haired woman Momoko admitted, "Nanoha was a very lively child, then life conspired against her. It's been very hard for her to open up to people, the fact that your daughter has gotten past all her walls is encouraging."

Deciding on the spot the best way to help their offspring, and get another chance to see her friend, Lindy offered, "Well, I think we should also provide our own encouragement, why don't you and your daughters come over for dinner? Maybe we can begin to lay down some groundwork to help them see the truth."

Just then Nanoha leaned her head against Fate's shoulder and the blonde's arm shifted so it was now cradling her back. The pair looked perfect together. Seeing the shy smile her daughter was now wearing Momoko said, "I don't think we will need to give them much of a push, they are more than halfway there."

Not nearly as optimistic Lindy shook her head, "Fate can be stubborn, she's been hurt a lot. Getting her to admit her feelings will be an uphill battle."

There was a very gentle look on the blonde's face when she turned to Nanoha and Momoko couldn't help commenting, "Maybe she has a hard time expressing herself verbally but from where I'm sitting it looks like she's pretty much a goner; hook, line and sinker."

Chewing her lip Lindy whispered, "Yeah, it's just getting her reeled in that will be the problem."