A/N: Here it comes, the moment we all were waiting for... Fate being an idiot and Nanoha pouncing on her prey. I hope everyone enjoys this tasty snack. Leave a comment/review if you got the time. Much love ~Phoenixnext

~Chapter 7~

Somehow, and Fate was sure it had to be Nanoha's doing, when she awoke thirty minutes later she was laying down and being used as a body pillow. The woman was half laying on top of her and their legs were tangled. But that wasn't her biggest concern, what worried her was their moms staring down at them.

Gulping she gave a tentative smile, "I… uh… Hi?"

Momoko decided to have pity on the woman and said, "Good morning Fate-san. I see my daughter is up to her old tricks again. Never fall asleep next to her unless you are willing to be her cuddle toy," then she stopped to consider something, "Or her personal punching bag. She is a very messy sleeper."

Frowning at the thought of someone else being used as a body pillow Fate wondered how easily it would be to remove the competition.

Lindy questioned worriedly, "Punching bag?"

Momoko laughed, "It's how you know if she really trusts you or not. If she does then she turns into a cuddle monster. If not, be prepared to be pummeled until you are out of arm or leg reach. She had to have a separate room when going on school trips since anyone coming near her futon would get punched if they touched her."

Feeling slightly relieved by this knowledge Fate gave the sleeping woman a soft squeeze. The movement lightly roused Nanoha and she nuzzled her cheek against the breast she was resting against. The action had the blonde blushing and panicking she rolled off the couch.

The loud thump of Fate landing on the floor and the sudden lack of warmth awoke Nanoha faster than a bucket of water. Groggy she sat up and asked in a sleepy voice, "Fate-chan are you okay?"

Lindy smirked, "Oh so she did take advantage of my child knowingly. Just like a Takamachi to take what she wants without asking permission."

Nanoha was about to protest when Momoko cut in rolling her eyes, "We only take what is ours by right. Or do you have a personal complaint to lodge?"

Kneeling to help her dazed daughter back up Lindy teased back, "Would it do me any good? Full power, full throttle, and to hell with consequences, how could I stand against that?"

Sniffing in faux offense Momoko sat down next to Nanoha and pulled her into a hug as she said, "We are very aware of consequences and take them very seriously. We always take responsibility for our actions."

Nanoha squirmed in the hold wanting to go to her friend and help her. Instead the strong grip of her mother held her on the seat so she could only stare longingly at the blonde now struggling to free herself from her own devious mother.

Lindy hummed unconvinced, "I'll believe it when I see it."

Giving her Nanoha a shake Momoko asked with a sly smile, "You have been very careful of your actions, right? No one would question your motives or your intentions? You haven't done anything that could be seen as irresponsible?"

Fate couldn't let this continue, they'd both die of embarrassment, "Nanoha has been nothing but a proper lady and good friend."

Putting her hand out to the woman she helped her escape her mother's clutches. Holding tight to each other neither seemed to notice the knowing look that was exchanged by the older pair.

Inching back towards the exit Fate said, "We uh will let you have the room, we… we uh can go to the library."

Chuckling at the behavior Lindy stepped closer to her daughter, waving a finger in front of her face she said, "Nuha, I have some work for you. You've had plenty of time to relax, now it is time to earn your keep."

Confused by this Fate said coherently, "Huh?"

Momoko leaned back against the couch cushions looking like a sleek cat, "Your mom has come to a decision regarding her future and will need your help."

Smiling at her friend Lindy continued, "Momo-chin and I had lunch with the mayor, let's say the results were not what he thought they'd be."

Snorting at this understatement, "I've always known the man was a bottomfeeder but his lack of respect to one of his biggest donors was shocking."

Rolling her eyes Lindy admitted, "He was used to dealing with Clyde or Chrono, I'm sure he would have been smarter if either of them had been with me."

Making a disgusted noise Momoko said, "I've never had any issues with him in the past, beyond him being a slimy lech but I'm used to most of the men in this town being like that. If I had a nickel for everytime I've been hit on I could pay off my mortgage."

Nanoha muttered under her breath, "And buy a yacht."

Lindy frowned at this, not liking the idea of her friend being sexually harassed. "All the more reason for me to take this step. It is time to drag this town into the 21st century."

Scratching her head to try and reboot her brain Fate asked flippantly, "And what horse are we going to be backing? They got to know it is going to be a huge battle to unseat an incumbent mayor with over a decade of experience."

Pinching Fate's cheek Lindy said, "Me."

Burgundy eyes nearly bulged out of her head, choking out, "MUM! You have to be insane! You can't, what about the company? You surely wouldn't be eligible to run. What…"

Squeezing the blonde's lips together Lindy answered, "I might be insane, you children have done your best to drive me up the wall. As for the company, Chrono is ready to take over."

Shaking her mom's hand away Fate pointed out, "And the residency requirement to run?"

Smiling wide, "Oh that won't be a problem, all I have to do is continue living here until election season and I will meet the residency time, the fact that we own this house means I just have to stay here continuously for six months."

Blinking in shock Fate took this in, her mom was staying. Then the other shoe dropped, "Which is what I wanted to talk to you about. I want you to be my campaign manager. You helped your cousin Megane win her seat in the House, so you can't say you don't have experience."

Fate felt a headache come on as it all began to overwhelm her. Rubbing her forehead she excused herself, "I… I need to think about this. I need some air."

Limping out of the room Fate went to the back of the house to stand on the veranda. The cooling wind off the ocean hit her face and eased some of her anxiety. This was the perfect excuse to stay, the work she'd be doing was meaningful and not just a token job. Leaning against the railing she stared at the blue water and tried to calm her nerves. The deep color reminded her of the woman who'd been using her as a pillow and stolen her heart.

She'd been desperate to find a reason to stay and now the golden opportunity has been presented to her. Living in Uminari meant she had to face a couple of new realities, all surrounding Nanoha. Could she really be happy as just her friend? What would be the consequences of asking her out? If things worked, or more likely failed to work out how could that affect her mom's chances at winning the election?

Having Nanoha snuggled against her had been amazing, even if waking up to their mothers' staring at them had been a cold bucket of water on her libido. If the pair hadn't shown up how could that situation gone differently? Having that beautiful young woman pressed to her had given her the most restful nap she'd had in years and waking with her exposed a gaping wound in her heart. She'd bleed to death if she lost this, she was now more vulnerable than she'd ever been as a child.

Long ago she'd been desperate for the love of a mother who thought less of her than garbage. She'd nearly killed herself trying to earn even the smallest of smiles or acknowledgement. Accepted her punishments silently to prove her willingness to please and ask forgiveness for her perceived crimes.

It was that desperation for love so cruelly abused that left her unwilling to expose her heart. But Nanoha hadn't had to pry her open like a clam, she was like water, slowly seeping in and completely immersing her. Everywhere she looked now was some memory of the woman and they all made her ache. Foolish and dangerous, there was no way Nanoha would want her.

The soft sound of footsteps made her turn and instead of the person she longed to see it was her mom. Lindy smiled fondly at her daughter recognizing the disappointment that flashed so briefly on Fate's face. The child seriously thought she was being sly when her heart was pinned to her sleeve.

Taking the spot beside her she sighed, "I love this town. The people, the history and all the wonderful memories I have of growing up here. We should have come back years ago but… I don't know. I guess it wasn't the right time."

Frowning Fate asked, "What do you mean?"

There was a solemnity to Lindy she'd never seen, "There is a season for everything. A time to mourn and a time to rejoice. This place for me, is a place where I've only ever wanted to keep positive memories. Until I was ready to put behind my mourning and live fully again I didn't want to marr this place."

Skeptical Fate replied, "I thought you brought me here to recuperate."

Twitching a smile at her normally gloomy child Lindy said, "I did, I brought you to the best place I could think of so we could both move beyond the ugliness of the past. I have to say, Uminari agrees with you."

Blushing the blonde grumbled, "Not so much the town but…"

Humming her approval, "Yes, the youngest Takamachi girl. She is a carbon copy of her mother. I would warn you of her temper but I understand she has already done a mea culpa."

Smiling at the thought of the fiery woman before her own angst had her moody again, "At least her anger is always justified. I'm a walking stick of dynamite."

Poking the glum goose Lindy pointed out, "You've been past that stage for a long time. You'd never made it to Major if you still let things set you off. Think of all the stressful situations and annoyances you've faced. Other than you getting growly and moody I can't think of a time you've struck out in anger."

Looking down at her hands Fate admitted, "I'm scared I'll hurt her. She deserves so much more than, well look at me!"

Unsure how to soothe the pain on display Lindy searched around and caught sight of a figure hiding in the shadows. The girl seemed to be trembling with anxiety, oh what a pair of idiots!

The love they both displayed so freely yet refused to voice had to be exposed. It was time to give these two a push.

Petting Fate's cheek Lindy soothed, "I see a beautiful intelligent woman who has a good heart. I see someone who is loyal to a fault and passionate about the things important to her. I also see you love that girl and I can't think of anything more precious than that."

Turning away with tears now falling Fate gripped the railing tightly, "It won't work. Eventually it will all fall apart. She'll come to hate me."

"Darling girl, do you honestly think Nanoha could come to hate you?"

Hunching up more Fate admitted, "If she had any clue how I felt for her she'd be disgusted. Who'd want some old cripple lusting after them?!"

Just then a missile hit her back at mach speed knocking the wind out of her. Then the punches she'd recognize anywhere pounded her back and shoulder.

Barely intelligible words let Fate know Nanoha was less than pleased with her, "Baka, baka, baka."

Normally Fate would know how to handle such a situation, tease the woman a little to make her smile then play off the intimacy as a joke. But this time, how much had she heard?

Lindy smiled at the new growth on her daughter before patting her on the head, "Now now, she might be dense as bricks but she isn't a total idiot. Talk to her properly."

Deciding it was best to let the pair work things out the older woman retreated back into the house.

There was a long moment of silence between them as Fate tried to come up with some excuse. Before she could begin ruining her life Nanoha spoke, "I know I'm just a kid compared to you but I love you. I want to make this work. I won't give up on you, I will never betray you, please just give us a chance."

Shaking Fate could feel hot tears burn down her face as her emotions got the better of her. She couldn't form words if her life depended on it. All she could do was sob uncontrollably just like the first day they met. Nanoha turned her and held her tightly, rubbing her back as she tried to calm the overwrought woman. Fate felt like she was in a maelstrom, and all she could do was cling to the warm solid body that radiated love.

Pulling them to the chaise longue that was tucked in a corner Nanoha found even in her current state Fate refused to be the bottom so when they finally were able to sit she was now in the blonde's lap. Hiding in the crook of Nanoha's neck Fate had no clue what to do once she got her tears under control. Maybe she could pretend to fall asleep then Nanoha would have to give up on this discussion for the day. Maybe in a few years she might have the courage to face her feelings and risk the massive heartache she was certain would follow.

Never one to fail to live up to her family motto Nanoha began to speak again, "I'm going to take the fact that you are clinging to me so tightly as at least a small sign that you like me. And if you care for me even a tenth of what I feel for you then I think it is worth trying to see if we'd make a good couple."

Fate squeezed the woman making her squeak in surprise, then realizing she was probably crushing her she relaxed. Her muscles twitched with tension, she needed to let go, she needed to push Nanoha away before she ended up hurting her. Instead it was like her body was suffering from tetanus and those very muscles seized up refusing to release her precious bundle.

Through gritted teeth she finally spoke, "It won't work."

Nanoha might not be the most experienced at love but she knew what she wanted and heard Fate's admission. She also knew it took more than love to make a relationship work, but as long as both of them wanted the same thing and put in the effort then she couldn't see this failing. She would fight the devil himself to keep Fate in her life.

Not wanting Fate to think she would be easily persuaded to give up Nanoha asked, "Why not?"

Fate's hands unconsciously locked around her own wrists, creating an almost unbreakable grip around the woman, then her mouth tried to wreck what her body demanded, "I'm too old and damaged. You deserve someone younger, someone you can build a future with."

Snorting at this Nanoha pulled Fate's face out of her nook and looking at the wet mess she sighed, "I want to build my future with you, and our children."

The sight of the blonde's jaw dropping at this declaration made Nanoha giggle, "You want a family and I think you'd make a great mama too. We can adopt another child, you wouldn't want Axle to be lonely."

Wiping at the wetness with her sleeve Nanoha continued, "I also happen to think you are pretty damn sexy. You do find me attractive, you've said so in the past or were you lying?"

Terrified that Nanoha could ever doubt this, Fate left no room for ambiguity when she practically shouted, "You're gorgeous! Never let anyone tell you differently."

Sapphire eyes focused on pink lips as she whispered one more question, "Would it be okay if I kissed you?"

There was a helpless whimper as Fate's eyes dilated, her breath caught in her throat as she faintly nodded her agreement. Heaven help her, she wanted to kiss Nanoha so badly but she'd never force herself on the woman.

The shy way Nanoha leaned in and seemed so unsure of her welcome broke the last string of restrain and she closed the distance. Soft and sweet, Fate devoured her conqueror, drinking in the little sighs and moans. Finally her tension eased enough in her body and her hands began to move. One holding the back of Nanoha's head while the other became more daring sliding south.

When they finally broke apart Nanoha was ready to strip naked and take the teasing blonde right there in the open. Her core ached and the lustful look in dark eyes told her Fate was ready to ease her suffering.

Panting Nanoha asked, "Will you be mine?"

"I… ", pushing Nanoha off her lap Fate searched for a way to self destruct. Good things like this never worked out so it was better to never try.

Instead of being hurt Nanoha got annoyed and grabbed the front of Fate's sweater, "Listen to me Harlaown, I won't let you ruin this for both of us. You don't kiss someone like that then say it won't work."

The panic and fear in Fate's eyes softened Nanoha and she crawled back onto the women's lap. Holding her still she kissed her again and relaxed when Fate responded. Hands now tangled in golden tresses she pulled back to look the foolish woman in the eyes.

"I don't ever want you to kiss another woman," there was a possessive growl to Nanoha's voice that made Fate blush. She'd never liked possessive or pushy women but then again those others had only ever wanted their way, ignoring her wants and desires.

Closing the gap between them again Nanoha proceeded to melt what little brain function Fate still had. Pressing her body against the blonde she rocked her hips in a very enticing way as her left hand snaked past sweater and the skin tight shirt. First exploring Fate's back and stomach before inching upward. Blunt nails scratched at the underside of one full breast causing a shiver. This was the most intimate thing she'd ever done with another person and fear of pushing too far made her hesitate.

Leaning back to let both of them cool down Nanoha stared at the disheveled blonde. Face flushed, her lips were swollen from their frantic kisses and hair a mess.

Panting and still in a lust haze Fate said, "God, you are too beautiful for words. There is no way this can be real," reaching out she lightly skimmed a hand down the front of Nanoha's chest, "Any minute I'm going to wake up and this will be a dream."

Laughing at the comment Nanoha caught the hand and held it to her heart, "This is real, and I want us to be a couple. So I need you to explain to me why you don't think this will work."

Becoming more subdued Fate admitted, "I said no because I'm a coward. I am beyond amazed that you'd even consider me worthy of your love. But eventually you'll realize I'm not worth the effort."

Trembling with emotion Nanoha asked, "How could you say such a thing?"

Letting Nanoha go, Fate stood up, limping back to the railing she leaned heavily against it as she admitted, "I ruin things when I'm too happy. I expect the worse and keep pushing the people around me until I get the terrible result I was scared of."

Rubbing Fate's back Nanoha sighed, "What are you scared of?"

Head hanging low, "You realizing you can do better. What if a younger woman comes along, less moody and damaged that can make you happier steals you away? I've never been anyone's first choice…"

Pulled away from the cold metal Fate was being kissed again, it was more demanding and she could feel Nanoha leaving a lasting mark on her soul. Then the mouth moved to kiss her cheek and neck. The feeling of teeth and suction made her gasp, the little brat was giving her a love bite.

There was a lick to the now tender flesh before Nanoha spoke, "Mine. I won't change my mind. I'm not an idiot, you accept me and I will spend the rest of my life showing you how much I love you."

Worried burgundy eyes sought out sapphires and she could see the love she desperately wanted. Running a hand down Nanoha cheek she sighed, "If you want this then I won't refuse. But please, tell me if you ever want out. I couldn't stand it if I ever trapped …"

Nanoha glared at Fate stopping her words, at first angry that the woman could think she'd cheat, then her last two words clarified her real concern. Seeing how unsure the older woman was with the situation Nanoha softened, "I'm a Takamachi, we don't worry about little things like age, social status, or gender. When we fall in love that's it, we give ourselves one hundred percent. The only way this won't work is if you leave me for someone else."

Clutching at Nanoha, Fate said seriously, "Never. I will cherish you for the rest of my life. I just hope you don't come to hate me for how clingy I can be."

Petting a soft cheek Nanoha teased, "As long as I'm the one you are clinging to that's fine. I want to be the one you can lean on when you are hurting."

Pulling Fate down for another kiss Nanoha sighed, "You're right, this feels like a dream."

Smiling dopily, the blonde whispered back, "I never want to wake up."

Giggling at the corny line Nanoha poked Fate's stomach, "Let's go back inside. I'm sure our moms will want to tease us."

Groaning Fate hugged her precious bundle, "I don't wanna."

Nanoha had seen flashes of this childish behavior before and it amused her that it seemed to be coming more frequently. She liked to see the woman more comfortable expressing herself, especially when it came to their interactions.

Placating the pouty barnacle Nanoha offered, "Come on Fate-chan, if you are a good girl I'll take you on a picnic tomorrow."

Perking up at that Fate asked, "You'll cook for us?"

A rush of warmth filled Nanoha's chest as she saw how excited Fate had become, pulling her down once more for another kiss she then promised, "Of course. I'll cook for you whenever you want."

A devilish gleam entered burgundy eyes as she replied, "Be careful, I'll hold you to that."

Teasing back Nanoha said, "Tomorrow, next week, month or year. Or twenty years from now, all you'll need to do is ask."

Moved by the declaration Fate reached out to tuck a stray hair back behind an adorable ear, "Thank you."

Going back inside Nanoha was pleased to see their parents weren't actually going to verbally roast them. Their knowing looks and a few passing comments about how cute they were together was as far as it went. Instead Lindy was more concerned with her upcoming election chances. For the first time Nanoha got to see Fate in business mode and she had to bite her cheek to stop herself from jumping the woman. Serious Fate was dead sexy in her books.

After a couple of hours of discussion the sounds of the two soldiers returning made everyone aware of how late it was getting. Fate escorted the two Takamachis to the door as they headed home and left the Harlaowns to entertain their remaining guests. Nanoha in greedy mode didn't care if her mom witnessed her kissing her girlfriend.

Pulling her down she gave her a quick peck before saying, "I'll see you tomorrow on the beach."

Grinning like an idiot the blonde said, "I'll be there."

As the mother and daughter walked away Fate could hear the elder giggle as she said something to Nanoha. The woman turned back, face red but with a wide smile when she saw the blonde wave at her. Returning the gesture she then said something quiet to her mother which had Momoko shaking her head. Clearly the pair were going to have a very interesting conversation on their way home.

The dinner in the Harlaown home included a fair bit of ribbing for Fate as the news of her relationship upgrade with Nanoha was announced. Whenever she'd been teased about prior girlfriends she'd wanted to shrink down and be swallowed by the floor. Now for whatever reason she felt like crowing to the world that Nanoha was hers. She batted back her brother's good-natured barbs with her own teases about how at least she didn't need a shotgun wedding to close the deal. Amy smirked at this and added in, "He might be dense but at least he is honorable."

Laying down that night Fate stared at her phone wondering if she should message Nanoha. It was something couples did but she also didn't want to be a bother. When a ping startled her and she dropped the phone. Fumbling it around she unlocked it and saw a message:

N- Sweet dreams Fate-chan

Immediately she began typing back:

F- You too, see you in the morning.

Suddenly morning felt too far away, she wanted to see Nanoha right that moment, hear her voice and feel her warmth. Rolling over she groaned into her pillow, 'I'm an idiot. I shouldn't be feeling this desperate.'

If Fate knew Nanoha was clutching the toy they won at the festival she might have felt a bit better, especially if she heard what she whispered to it, "I'll see Fate-chan tomorrow. I'm going to give her the biggest hug and kiss so she knows how much I love her."

The next month was heaven, in the morning they swam together then ate breakfast on the beach. In the afternoon they each went to their respective jobs before their families came together to have dinner at either home. Momoko was becoming heavily invested in Lindy's election and wanted to provide her all the help she could which meant the rest of the Takamachis were being shanghaied to help too. Not that Nanoha would complain since it gave her more time to spend in company with Fate.

The only fly in the ointment was Fate's reluctance to let them become fully intimate. Kissing, holding hands, even the occasional make out session with over the clothes groping had been allowed but no further. Nanoha hadn't really thought about sex until Fate came into her life and now she feared she was becoming a pervert. She was very careful about deleting her internet search history once her hormones overrode her modesty. She was getting very frustrated and Fate wasn't making it any easier on her with those burning eyes that promised so much more.

They were due to go shopping for her school supplies, mostly equipment for the experiments she'd have to do over the coming months and Nanoha felt nervous. This was the last time she'd have to do this but it also underlined the difference in their ages and experience. Fate had her master's degree in business management and her undergraduate degree in political science. She was so far ahead of her that she wondered if they'd ever be equals, instead of letting her doubts make her question their relationship she squared her shoulders and pledged to herself, "I will work hard, it won't be long before I will be able to hold up my head proudly and walk side by side with Fate-chan."

For once they would be driving and seeing the blonde in the stylish sedan Nanoha felt her throat go dry. She wondered if going parking would be something she could eventually convince the blonde to do. The backseat looked like it would be roomy enough for them to get the car extremely steamy. Getting out of the vehicle Fate smiled at her girlfriend and greeted her with a kiss before asking, "Were you waiting long?"

Shaking her head Nanoha failed to get words out, she was getting more twitterpated the longer they were together but failed to do the deed. How long would it be before Fate let them move forward? She seriously wondered why she was even holding back, they both wanted sex and both were committed to the relationship. Outside of this one aspect Fate was the perfect girlfriend, attentive, caring, funny and supportive. Too bad she seemed resistant to attending her greatest current need.

The drive was quick as was their shopping trip at the university bookstore. The chemicals and other materials had already been pre ordered and just needed to be paid for in addition to two new workbooks where she'd log her data. As she gathered everything up into two boxes she could see a few other students and then one of her former professors. The woman was gorgeous and openly gay, her parade of girlfriends coming to visit her office was often the focus of the rumor mill. A spike of fear shot through Nanoha, what if?

Fate was looking at a few textbooks as she waited for Nanoha to finish up at the counter, paying no attention to the young coeds around her. Then she got a whiff of a premium perfume that made her look up. Not so much because she liked the scent but to see who was wearing it. The tall brunette woman in a stylish dress that hugged her curves made eye contact with her. She could feel her eyes linger as she checked out her figure and it made her feel like running. The stranger reminded her of her ex in all the wrong ways. Turning away she limped over to where Nanoha was and leaning in she asked, "Are you all set?"

Looking over at her girlfriend she could see her professor coming their way and wished she could just abandon the box and flee with Fate. Instead she held her nerve firm and said calmly, "It will be just a few more minutes, I need to make sure none of the glass beakers are broken."

Just then a honey smooth voice called out, "Miss Takamachi, how good to see you again."

Turning she saw the bombshell professor was standing nearby and her possessive nature kicked into overdrive. She would not lose Fate!

The look on the girl's face made the professor smirk, 'How very cute, she thinks she can keep me from getting what I want.'

Addressing the blonde beside her former student she introduced herself, "I'm afraid I don't recognize your friend, allow me to introduce myself, Dr. Elizabeth Lyon. Are you a returning student Miss?"

Placing a hand on Nanoha's hip to ground herself Fate replied, "No, I'm just helping my girlfriend transport her equipment home."

There was no need to give her name to this stranger, as far as Fate was concerned if she never saw her again it'd be too soon. She didn't like the hungry look in her eyes, nor the obvious dismissal of Nanoha.

The touch helped calm the younger woman, then the words spoken soothed her nerves. Fate openly declared herself off the market. Leaning back into the older woman she smiled when the hand moved to hold her more firmly.

Seeing the interchange the Professor sighed, "I see I am being a nuisance, good luck with your final project Takamachi. If you need any assistance with your dissertation please let me know."

Hips swaying she moved away deeper into the bookstore and out of sight. Once she was gone Fate leaned her head on Nanoha's shoulder and breathed her in, getting the scent of the perfume out of her nose and calming her frazzled nerves. She had zero interest in women like the professor, she oozed the same charm that had led to her shattered heartbreak.

Squeezing the hand on her stomach Nanoha said, "Let me finish up then we can get out of here."

Letting go, Fate answered, "Let me help you. The faster we can get back to the car the better."

Less than five minutes later they had confirmed all the equipment was in order and Nanoha's card was being swiped. Signing the receipt they each took a box and fled the store. The silence as they returned to the vehicle allowed Nanoha some time to think about what happened. Fate's reaction to the professor wasn't what she was expecting.

Carefully packing everything in the trunk Nanoha closed the lid then leaned against the back of the car. Taking Fate's hands she asked gently, "What happened back there?"

Frowning the blonde stared down at her shoes, it was stupid, she had no reason to be scared. Mumbling in embarrassment, "It's nothing, I ah over reacted when I saw you tense up."

Not completely believing her girlfriend but not wanting to push her Nanoha pulled her into a hug before whispering in her ear, "I was scared you would take one look at her and fall in love. Dr. Lyon seems more like your type than I could ever be."

Crushing Nanoha in a desperate embrace Fate choked out, "Never. Never again, I know her type. She reminds me of my ex, right down to that three hundred dollar perfume. God I hate that scent."

Petting Fate's back Nanoha relaxed, suddenly she was happy she wasn't as classy or mature as her professor. If she'd tried to emulate the woman, like so many other students had, she might have lost her chance with the blonde. For the first time she was thankful she listened to her parents about being honest about who she was and living life as she saw fit, not conforming to social expectations.

Pulling the woman away Nanoha kissed Fate softly before saying, "I'm glad Fate-chan is mine."

As if a wellspring of desperation had been sprung Fate leaned back in and initiated the most intense kiss they'd ever shared. Panting as if she'd just sprinted a mile Nanoha asked, "What was that for?"

Dark eyes were now feverish, "Because you are my Nanoha."

Placing a hand on Fate's chest she could feel the pounding of her heart, mustering all her bravery she asked, "I want you to make me fully yours. I want to touch you more, learn everything about you."

Gulping the blonde stuttered a little, "I..It is t...too soon. I don't want to rush you into anything you might regret."

Closing the gap between them Nanoha found the long porcelain neck she adored and proceeded to leave a few love bites. Fate's knees went weak and she had to grab hold of the car to keep herself upright. Gasping she pleaded, "Please Nanoha, don't tempt me like this. I want our first time to be perfect. Not a quick grope in the back of my car."

Stopping Nanoha looked into dilated eyes, "As long as it is with you, it will be perfect."

Pressing their foreheads together the blonde counter offered, "But I think you deserve the best, and when it happens I want to give you everything. Please be patient with me just a little longer, I… I want to plan it out."

Giggling at the earnestness on display Nanoha kissed her girlfriend, "You are so silly Fate-chan. I don't need anything flashy or elaborate. I just need you. So don't make me wait too long," then blushing a little she admitted, "I'm already having naughty dreams."

Groaning Fate confessed, "I've been having dreams about you for weeks. You can have no idea how much I want you."

"Well then, I think you better finish your planning fast, for both our sakes," Nanoha urged before slipping out of the blonde's grasp. "Come on Fate-chan, let's go home."