Pharah

The official day of the final briefing before one of Overwatch's most pivotal missions was scheduled. Only one night remained before that fateful session, and Ana had made a proposal to both Fareeha and Angela. She wanted to have a special night out. Just the three of them. Despite Angela having Widow's operation during the day, Fareeha's lady had agreed quite adamantly, claiming she would be more than happy to attend. Although Fareeha worried Angela was pushing herself again, she couldn't deny that she desired the outing more than a little.

Fareeha lowered her weights slowly, performing a dead lift curl with sixty pounds on either side. Her muscles swelled satisfyingly, a large vein protruding through her bicep. Sweat streamed down her chin, pooling around her collar and cascading along her exposed abdominals. The gym was empty save for her. Late afternoon wasn't a popular time to exercise.

'Hah…' She breathed out, maintaining control, but feeling more fatigued than usual. Her body was still recovering, it seemed. Fareeha downed multiple gulps of water, looking up at one of the many monitors, the news playing but muted, loud rock booming over the speakers. She could make out the highlighted stories; omnic attacks on the rise, the government no longer capable of muffling the rising threat of another potential Omnic Crisis.

If only it were that simple. The Black Omnic Crisis. That's what Jack was calling the next war if Overwatch failed to stop Talon's mass production of the alien matter capable of mutating machines into feral, biogenetic beings. If only Fareeha could join the mission. She could help. She knew she was more than capable. More so than ever, really…!

Another set.

'Hgh…! Hah…! Hgh…! Hah…!'

Down. Control. The reps were pointless without the proper form. Fareeha monitored her inhales and exhales, wiping sweat from her sticky brow and staring in one of the multiple mirrors. A woman looked back. A woman she was beginning to understand better than before. A woman proud of who she was and who she was becoming. A woman who loved another woman.

She should've known. How couldn't she have seen the signs? She didn't hate men. Far from it. She got along with them better than her own sex, in most cases, really. She was "tough". Blunt. Liked to be rough. Wanted to fight. She was always a tomboy. Always "one of the guys". She fit right in with the Egyptian Army. With Helix. Until she was a woman again. Until "one of the guys" didn't want her to be "one of the guys". Until he was taking off his pants. Until he was pushing himself at her mouth. Until she was practically ordered to "do her job" as a woman.

Another set.

'Hgh…! Hah…! Hgh…! Hah…!'

Down. Control. Don't get angry. Don't be ashamed. It was in the past. All of it. Angela was willing to look beyond it all. Why couldn't Fareeha?

She was bad at it. He had told her so. Too much teeth. Too hard. Too soft. Too slow. Too fast. Use your damn hand. Never mind. Just lay down. Too tight. Dry as a fucking dessert. Can't get in. There are always ways around that. There. Better. Done. It's not a bad day for you, right? They got pills for that anyway. Might want to clean that up. See you again? Goodnight.

Slam.

She increased the weight. Eighty on both sides. Her neck felt like it might explode. Why was she thinking about it again? Why now when she knew what real love was without a shadow of a doubt? Another set. Another. Another. Another.

'Agh…!' Fareeha dropped the weight, and it rolled into the wall, making a loud clanging sound.

Angela was so different. So, so different. Because of what they had done. That's why. She was recalling the other times in contrast to Angela taking her because of the recent event. Pushing into her. Filling her with warmth. It was another reality entirely. The difference of authentic feelings. The difference between following one's heart and following societal expectation.

She stared at herself on the mirror, her mascara running a little, and her feminine features prominent alongside her masculine ones. She liked being a girl. Few would surely believe her, but she earnestly didn't mind. Zarya proved just how comparable a woman could be to a man. Reinhardt acknowledged the woman's power. Fareeha didn't mind the handicap. It just pushed her harder. She liked her body. She preferred her softer features. Perhaps just as importantly, Angela found her attractive. She had worth. It was all too obvious now. It felt good. It felt right.

'Uh-oh. Is someone supposed to be here?' The music was cut, and Brigitte stood in a torn-up muscle shirt, her stomach revealed and her defined arms alluring in their own way.

'Heh. So long as I moderate myself, it's fine.'

The other girl stepped over to Fareeha's area, humming at the bar full of weights she had been using.

'Oh, yeah. You totally seem to be "taking it easy" here, missy.' She handed Fareeha her water, and Fareeha didn't waste time chugging nearly the rest of it.

'Good to see you, huh? Missed you.' She went on, nudging Fareeha's shoulder with a light punch.

'I'm glad to be back as well. It was…a close call.'

'You're telling me. Guess that's part of the job and all, but man, our track record is looking rough.'

'You're feeling better also?'

'Mostly. Still achy here and there, but I'm good to go, I think.'

'The mission tomorrow?'

'Yeah. Gotta support the big guy and all if we're forced to go in and damage control.'

'Right…' Fareeha scowled, and Brigitte could only laugh, playing with some of the loose strands of hair around her left ear.

'You're not coming.'

'I know that.' Fareeha snapped back.

'Angela would never let you.'

'And that's fair.'

'But you're mad.'

'Of course, I am. I could help.'

'They're not going easy on this mission. We got enough people; don't worry.'

Fareeha's jaw tightened, and she sighed, sitting on one of the workout benches.

'That's…not what's bothering me completely.'

'Oh?'

Fareeha wasn't one to tell her thoughts and feelings to just anyone, but Brigitte was her closest friend aside from Angela, and bringing such a thing up with her girlfriend didn't seem like the best idea in the moment either. Not yet, anyway. Not again, since it felt like a sensitive subject for Angela.

She dabbed at her face once more, holding the towel under her nose.

'You wanna talk?' Brigitte offered considerately.

'I'm not sure…'

'If something's bothering you it's better to get it out, you know? Papa taught me that. He and my mom always hashed it out right then and there. It was a bit stressful, but at least there were no secrets.'

'I can see that.'

'Right? Papa's hilarious when he's mad…most of the time.'

Fareeha cracked her shoulder, watching Brigitte pick up some dumbbells and curling them easily. Her arms were muscular, yet not in a bad way. She was a little shorter than Fareeha, but was just as fit; perhaps a little bulkier. She was undeniably a cute girl and a great friend. Fareeha felt she could be trusted. She swallowed her hesitation, speaking her strange thoughts as best as she could.

'Have you…ever been with a man before?' She asked, and the words fumbled through her tongue.

Brigitte paused her workout, glancing over her tattooed shoulder at Fareeha.

'Huh. That kinda talk, is it?'

'I don't know. I'm just…agitated with myself and my past.'

'Well, yeah. You're a perfectionist in some ways, right?'

'I never thought of myself as one, but maybe.'

'When it comes to your career and your identity, I think you are.'

'You might be right.' Fareeha knew she was. Because of Ana, Fareeha held high expectations before herself. Measuring up to a legend. Surpassing that legend. Being a strong woman. She strived for all these things. The blemishes in her "relationships" of the past had always annoyed her, but being with Angela now made said festering irritations even worse.

'Anyway, I've had one or two guys back in the day. Nothing really serious. It was okay. Felt pretty good at the time, but the real emotional connection wasn't there, you know? With Reinhardt…I don't know, I just feel so close to him on a whole other level. I can be myself. Totally me. And he obviously accepts me warts and all. Most guys don't want girls like us, you know? Most. There are always exceptions, but then I'm usually the one not into them. It's kind of a catch twenty-two.'

'So, you played a role for those men you were with?'

'A bit. Tried to be a little daintier and the like. Basically why it ended most of the time. Once I met Rein, I stopped seeing anybody altogether. I focused on getting stronger and…well, here I am.'

'If you were ever to be with Reinhardt, would those past relationships bother you?'

'Hahah!' Brigitte chuckled, reddening a bit. 'No. But I'm not a perfectionist. Plus, how many "conquests" do you think Rein has under his belt? I'd be a saint in comparison, I'm sure.'

'True…'

'Angela can't be any different though, right? I mean – '

'I am her one and only.'

'…Oh. Well, damn.' Brigitte put down the weights, cupping her chin. 'You serious? She's sort of next-level beautiful, isn't she?'

'My opinion's a little biased, but I would say so.'

'She is. Papa got in trouble for saying as much back in the day. Hahah!'

'Trust me, she's had more than enough opportunity, but she was stronger than me. She didn't need validation of that level as a woman. I was weak, and made idiotic choices as a result. Terrible experiences with men that couldn't care less about me as a person.'

'Easy, Fareeha. Seriously.' Brigitte grabbed at Fareeha's neck, massaging it roughly but affectionately. 'Are you actually beating yourself up over that? Stop being a dummy.'

'Pardon?' Fareeha blinked.

'Does Angela care?'

'To a degree, I think she does, but…'

'Well, that just shows she really likes you, but she isn't breaking things off or anything, right?'

'No…I don't think so.'

'You don't think so? Um…she sort of gave a piece of herself to keep you around, as far as I know. I'd say she's a little more than into you. Stop overthinking it. Seriously. It's stupid. You're being stupid.'

'Harsh words.' Fareeha grinned wryly.

'Only real friends get harsh with the people they care about. You are the cutest couple I've seen in a long time. Just be happy you're together after everything you've been through. I've known Angela for a bit, and she's crazy about you, girl. Warts and all.' Brigitte winked, and Fareeha exhaled slowly, nodding alongside her friend's words.

'Thank-you…'

'That's what I'm here for. Support role and all that.'

'I needed to hear that kind of reaffirmation, I think. Especially from someone who I can relate to so easily.'

'Yup.' Brigitte punched Fareeha's shoulder. 'Us odd ducks gotta stick together.'

Fareeha returned the blow, smiling proudly.

'That being said,' She hummed mischievously. 'Did you just admit you have feelings for Reinhardt?'

Brigitte flinched back, eyes fluttering and glancing every which way.

'Whatever. I was trying to help out, so, yeah, maybe it slipped into the mix. I know it's messed up, but it's not like anything'll happen. I'm just gonna keep supporting him like I always do. I love the big oaf, okay? Stop looking at me like that!'

'Please. As if I can possibly judge. Despite the steps forward for relations like mine, it is far from perfectly normalized. However,' Fareeha thought about what her life would have been like if she hadn't asked Angela out for that drink. If she hadn't taken any risks for the relationship she valued so much she questioned every mistake in her past. The mere reflection made her shiver. 'I think you should say something. He isn't getting younger. And the battles to come will only push him further.'

'I-I know that…' Brigitte stammered. 'I just…don't know what to say. Plus, he's totally into you mom. You know that, right?'

'What!?' Fareeha did not know that.

'Seriously? It's like a running gag. A little tough to watch, not gonna lie, but yeah.'

'My mother has never said anything like that to me.' Although Ana didn't talk much with Fareeha about her personal life to begin with. That was the problem.

'Yep. It's a thing. He knows nothing'll ever happen, but he compliments her every chance he gets.'

'Unbelievable.'

'Trust me. I know.'

Fareeha shook her head, irritated by her lack of knowledge surrounding her mother. Perhaps tonight she could change that ongoing trend of ignorance. With Angela as a foil, maybe Fareeha could finally get to know the woman she only knew as her mother; not Ana Amari of Overwatch.

'Anyway, all the more reason to maybe say something. He doesn't know you're an option.'

'And it might be better that way. What if I do make some kind of awkward move and he's really not into it? That'd make work a tiny bit strained.'

'I could've made the same argument, but Angela was worth the risk.'

'Yeah, but it's not like you two knew one another for a long time beforehand, right?'

'…Fine.' Fareeha lifted her hands. 'Then always wonder if it could've been.'

'Oh. Come on. I didn't mean to piss you off.'

'I just don't know what to say to you.'

'Don't worry about me. I'm good.'

'But you love him…!'

'There're different kinds of love, Fareeha, you know? Maybe this is just how I want to love the crazy guy.'

That stuck with Fareeha. Different kinds of love. She was right. Fareeha had no right to push Brigitte into something she wasn't comfortable with. Fine. She would leave it at that. She had a dinner to get ready for anyway. She needed a shower. She wanted to be ready to support Angela if she was fatigued from the hours of operation-time. Fareeha dabbed at her face with finality, putting on a loose t-shirt.

'Thanks for the talk, Brigitte.'

'Anytime. Are we okay?'

'Hm? Of course. Why wouldn't we be?'

'True. True.' She laughed. 'Wanna grab breakfast together tomorrow? Wouldn't mind hanging out one last time before the mission. Angela can come, obviously.'

'Sure. I'd like that. I'll be in touch.'

'Good luck tonight. Rein told me all about it. I'm glad you're getting some time with your mom.'

'Me, too.' Fareeha waved to her friend, relieved she was able to alleviate some of her frustrations before the more trying social interaction of the day. Brigitte still seemed to have a sense of longing about her, and Fareeha wondered if she was putting up a front. A talk for another day, she supposed.

Fareeha noticed Angela's shoes in the front hallway. They were tipped over, as if kicked off. Her lab coat was draped over a chair. A hair elastic rested on the table where some white flowers were continuing to wilt. The flowers Fareeha had brought to Angela during their first "fight". She was here. Likely passed out from exhaustion. Fareeha stealthily made it to their room and saw the woman of her dreams. She was sprawled across the bed, only a white button-up covering her body save for the way her bottom peeked out, a black pair of panties tight against her pretty butt.

Fareeha closed the door as quietly as she could, shifting the device to manual so it wouldn't "swoosh" too loudly. She then made her way to the washroom, her mind pulsating at the tantalizing memory of her girlfriend, and the immediate desire to make love to her beautiful form distracting as she stripped naked, trying not to allow her hand to linger between her legs in hunger.

She turned on the water, waited a second for the heat to arrive, and stepped in, pushing her hands through her hair and stretching her back, feeling it crack and her muscles still numb with adrenaline. Alone with her thoughts again, Fareeha was happy to note she wasn't nearly as bothered by her own negative emotions thanks to Brigitte. She thought, perhaps, her mistakes from the past relationally would always bother her, but she couldn't let them do more than that. She was young. She was naïve. Almost everyone did similarly foolish things when exploring their sexuality. What bothered Fareeha was, even at the time, she knew she was being weak. Why couldn't she have been like Angela? Pure until she met the one person she claimed to love above all else. It was so frustrating, and yet Brigitte's words returned, and Fareeha could breathe a little easier, rubbing the soap over her firm body and breathing shakily when her fingers subconsciously teased her hardened chest.

Was it normal to be so easily aroused? The other night lingered on Fareeha's mind, and she was desperate to be with Angela in any way sooner rather than later. She missed her. A day without her for the operation was one day too many. Sure, Fareeha had awoken at the crack of dawn to have a coffee with Angela before she ventured off to work a miracle, but that felt like ages ago now. She wanted her angel in her arms. More than ever. This love was boundless, it seemed. How could Brigitte settle for simply looking from afar? Fareeha thought she would have been okay with that, too, at one point. Oh, how wrong she was.

The water sprinkled over Fareeha's face, and she was inhaling deeply, hearing the faint sounds of someone coming into the bathroom and, not a second later, hands wrapping around her body. She knew the touch immediately. She recognized Angela's presence instantly. She held the other woman's grip with her own, turning to face her and pressing their naked bodies together. Fareeha kissed the top of Angela's head, wiping hair away from her face before kissing her mouth directly, the sound of her nose taking in air somehow exciting in its desperation.

Not a word was spoken verbally. Everything was said with their actions. Angela held Fareeha's face and pushed it into hers, moans flowing through her throat as she opened her mouth wide, their tongues full and moving against one another's.

Angela had missed Fareeha just as much. She was tired, but lonely. Scared she had lost her again somehow. Frightened her miracle was a dream. Holding fast to her knight, not ever wanting to let go.

The water streamed between their two bodies, and Fareeha lifted Angela with ease, pressing her back against the wall and sucking on her breasts, squeezing her ass roughly and embracing the way Angela grinded her body against her, her waist and hips rocking in methodic eagerness.

It felt like seconds later. Angela's body tightened, and she let out a satisfied groan, her eyes flickering in orgasmic release and her mouth agape with satisfaction. She kissed Fareeha again and again, trailing down her body until she was on her knees and between Fareeha's legs. Her tongue slipped in, and she looked up, water soaking her face and other fluids seeping down her chin. Fareeha cupped her own breasts and sighed, leaning against the wall and gasping in pleasure.

Fareeha soon was turning off the water and wrapping Angela in a towel before herself, still caressing the woman's back lovingly while they dried off just enough to not make it unreasonable to return to their room, Angela falling onto the bed again, her towel coming a little loose.

'That was…positively wonderful.' She said at last, the slightest hint of her accent so very appealing to Fareeha. 'Goodness I missed you.'

'We were thinking the same thing, it would seem. I barely resisted when I saw you on our bed in disarray.'

'Oh, you're more than welcome to act on such urges in the future.'

'I was sweaty…'

'You know I don't mind.'

'A fetish?'

'It could very well be.'

They both laughed, and Fareeha put on a tight pair of boyish panties, still drying her hair as she sat next to Angela.

'You still wish to tempt me with such charming mounds of flesh so close?' Angela stroked around the centre of Fareeha's left breast, and it stiffened instantly, embarrassing her.

'P-perhaps.'

'I do not mind. I'd be willing to participate in another session of lovemaking with you any moment of the week, Fareeha Amari.'

Fareeha giggled at this, but when Angela proceeded to keep teasing her body, she considered doing just that, and soon, that consideration manifested into action. There was something she had been meaning to try anyway, and she ripped the towel from under Angela, straddling atop of her and comedically yanking her freshly equipped underwear to her ankles, kicking the material away.

'Oh, my gosh!' Angela shrieked joyfully. 'I-I didn't suspect you would truly…!'

Fareeha angled her thigh against Angela's damp womanhood and rubbed it, the older girl gripping at her back and letting pieces of her voice slip through her laboured breaths.

'A-ah…! I'm still…sensitive…!'

'Me, too.' Fareeha smiled, and managed to shift her and her lady's position until Angela was almost sitting atop of her, their legs entangled and adjusted so that their groins were interconnected.

'Ms. Amari…!' Angela's eyes lit up. 'Where on earth did you learn…? Hah…O-oh…!'

It was electrifying. Somehow more intimate than even the "toy" Lena had given them. Fareeha's abs flexed as she rubbed against Angela, the lewd act difficult to perform, but possible thanks to how fit Fareeha was. She grit her teeth, the sensation of Angela's soft womanhood merging with her own extraordinary, both girls unable to restrain their pitched voices circulating through the room. Angela leaned back, supporting herself with her arms and elevating her hips, changing the rhythm and pushing them both into another realm of pleasure. Fareeha reacted in kind, and she tried to log the images flickering before her eyes safely away, this utter vulnerability so incredible and unique.

They switched positions again, Fareeha laying Angela on her back and moving up and down over her body, kissing her deeply and feeling her lady's form sway with her own. Why did this feel so different? Lena's "toy" should have been the closest the women could ever come to having conventional sexual relations, yet this was somehow better. Rawer. Realer. There was no filter. No matter how advanced technology was, Fareeha couldn't be completely connected to the phallic piece that extended from her body. But this? This was sex with Angela. This was how two women could engage in such a thing at the most intimate level.

Fareeha held Angela tightly as her breaths came out in rough gasps of rapture. Her lady practically did the same. They were one for a moment, and then parted as sweet sorrows demanded. Their hands remained interlocked, and Fareeha looked to her side, seeing the doctor's chest heaving laboriously.

'G-good lord…' She whispered. 'Simply…incredible…'

'Agreed.' Fareeha sucked in some air, her groin aching from the amount of times she reached her limit. 'I prefer that method…if I'm to be honest…'

'I felt so close to you.' Angela leaned on her hand, her tired eyes glowing regardless.

'I think that's why I prefer it. Lena's "toy" could be fun, on occasion, but I'd rather feel you without any sort of barrier.'

'Yes! That's it, isn't it?'

'Heh.' Fareeha reached to Angela's face, holding half of it in one hand and stroking her cheek with her thumb. 'Thank-you for being a part of my life, Angela.'

'Aw…' Angela giggled, but looked as though she might cry in another moment. 'You read my mind?'

'I'm so glad I asked you to get that drink with me.'

'I thank the stars you had the courage almost nightly.'

'I never want to leave your side.'

'Then don't.' Angela shuffled in close, the nakedness of her body flipping Fareeha's switch again. It almost made her laugh.

'I don't intend to.' She tried to say without giving away her thoughts. It was best to change the subject, for even Angela likely had her limit, and Fareeha was beginning to wonder if her drive was slightly abnormal. 'So, how did the operation go?'

'Ah. Yes. The reason for my fatigue. Now that my adrenaline is fading, I fear I may need another quick nap prior to joining your mother for dinner. You truly put me through the wringer, Ms. Amari.'

'I'd say you started it by ambushing me in the shower. I'm innocent.'

'True…until you proceeded to pleasure me another three to five times. I lost track, to be honest. It was a chain reaction at one point, I believe. Heheh!'

This wasn't helping Fareeha's attempt to cool her mind. Perhaps Angela could tell, for she adjusted their focus anew.

'I am happy to announce that I have tentatively reduced Widowmaker's risk to all personnel in Overwatch.'

Fareeha couldn't believe the words, staring with amazement at her girlfriend.

'…Really?'

'Indeed. I won't bore you with the details, but I untangled her brain to the point that, should she remain emotionally sound, all shall be well.' Angela paused, as if in contemplation. 'Ideally, I would love to claim I successfully reverted her back to Amelie Lacroix, before any of this, but that's simply an impossibility. She will never be the same. There will always be remnants of what Talon – of what Moira – did to that poor woman.'

'Still, surely she's thankful!'

'She is still asleep and recovering, but Lena is watching over her, so, I know she is in good care.'

'Tracer…' Fareeha thought of the famous girl. 'She seemed to be interested in Widow, didn't she?'

'She's been a naughty girl, I'll say that much.'

This was news to Fareeha, and Angela obviously could tell as much, sighing to the ceiling.

'Is everything alright?' Fareeha ventured to ask.

'…Yes. Mostly. As a doctor, I should not expound upon my patient's issues, but I will say that both Lena and Amelie need more than a few more sessions with me. Perhaps even a more qualified psychologist.'

'Whoa.' That was saying something.

'Indeed. I shall leave it at that. However,' Angela's face coloured a little, and she avoided Fareeha's eyes cutely as she fidgeted with the covers under them. 'If I suggested we engaged in a…a session of…o-of lovemaking with a third individual – perhaps Hana, for example – what would your reaction be?'

Fareeha physically recoiled. In the army, she had heard some of her male comrades expound upon such exploits, bragging about pleasuring two women at once or even closer individuals going on about how they shared a girl, but it had always rubbed Fareeha the wrong way, and even the simple idea of imagining Angela being touched by someone other than her ignited a fury she had to consciously subdue.

'Raging jealousy.' Fareeha answered simply, and Angela nodded, touching her arm softly.

'I feel the same, honestly. I suppose part of me can understand the allure, particularly later in a relationship, when a couple is feeling adventurous, but…certain circumstances do not dictate such an act being beneficial mentally.'

'Obviously.' Fareeha concurred. Never. She was too possessive. In the deep archives of her fantastical mind, perhaps she humoured a moment of intimacy between herself and Hana – or even Brigitte – but it was a shameful, uncontrolled notion, and she couldn't picture Angela being pleasured by anyone but her.

'Heh. Honest through and through.'

'I don't understand the desire. You're all I need.'

'Quite. But there are different types of love, Fareeha, and we need to respect them.'

That again. It must be true. Thus, Fareeha touched her lady's hair, reveling in the silky locks that clipped through her fingers.

'I only want you.'

'And you have me. Mind, body, and soul.'

Angela had snuck in a quick nap while Fareeha browsed the news on her phone next to her, thankful her lady was a deep sleeper and the light from her device didn't bother her. It was potentially a fairly poor decision to entertain herself in such a way, however, for omnic attacks were on the rise, and one news network, in particular, illustrated as much with a graph that outlined the most problematic areas. Talon's name was mentioned only in passing, its presence still eluded by all the "official" outlets, and Fareeha's frustration grew, knowing the terrorist group was reveling in the growing chaos.

She tried not to dwell on the matter as Angela and her got ready to meet with her mother. Nothing could be done. At least she would be staying with her lady, ensuring her safety at base. Yes, she wished beyond belief to be part of such an important mission, but if she had to choose, Angela took precedence at this point, and thus, remaining at Overwatch Gibraltar was her fate.

'Should I get exceptionally dressed up or keep it rather casual? I'm struggling, Fareeha.' Angela pondered near their closet. They shared the space. It made Fareeha happier than it should have, she thought.

'I'm just wearing whatever.' Fareeha didn't want to sound bitter, but it was hard not to sometimes.

'Yes, but this is practically a meeting where I officially ask for Ana's blessing from here onward. I'd like to look nice.'

'She gave you her "blessing" already, didn't she?'

'In a sense, I suppose, but I do suspect she understands our relationship a little better now.'

'How do you mean?' Fareeha was curious, her mouth twitching.

'W-well,' Angela stuttered, gripping at a pretty black dress of hers. 'The fact I wish to be with you for…for a very long time.'

Fareeha's heart flipped, but she couldn't help wanting to push a flustered Angela a little further.

'But how long is a long time?'

'Many, many years…'

'Three or four?'

'How dare you.' Angela turned, glaring and beginning her counterattack with vengeance. 'Let us put it this way, Ms. Amari: I told Lena I would marry you without hesitation at this point. Is it too soon? Of course. But I doubt my feelings will change until my final breath, and that is a fact. Do not dispute a doctor's word.'

It was a fatal blow, and Fareeha kneeled before the queen of playful banter. She was put back in her place, and Fareeha could only ask for forgiveness.

'I-I see…' What could she say? Taking Angela as her bride? Well, the thought had crossed her mind. Many times, to be truthful. There were complications that made Fareeha hesitate, but the necessary emotions were certainly present. Would she be the groom? Dressed in a suit? Playing the man's role? It seemed natural, but more of her than she thought would bucked at the image.

'We would both be brides…' Angela mumbled. 'You would look stunning in such a dress.'

How did she do it? How could she read Fareeha's mind so accurately at times? How could she say just the right thing to banish the lingering self-conscious doubts?

'W-well…there's no point talking about it now. As you said, it's a little early.'

'Quite. Yes, you are correct. I'm being rather ridiculous, aren't I?'

Fareeha took a gulp, her whole face aflame.

'Not…entirely.'

This seemed to make Angela smile, and the woman hummed for the rest of the time it took to dress, eventually deciding on a black tank-top and stylish, high-waisted jeans. Fareeha's dog-tag clinked on her collar, and it only made her want to hold Angela all over again.

'That's a nice look.' Fareeha complimented honestly.

'Isn't it? Inspired by a certain young woman I adore.'

'Hahah! I see!'

Fareeha herself went with black pants and a white shirt, throwing on a light, dark grey jacket in case the night cooled off (in which case, she would happily provide the warmth to her date). She then escorted Angela through Overwatch Gibraltar to the garage where Ana was already waiting, a small hood and more traditional, Egyptian garbs working to conceal much of her.

'Ladies.' She greeted smugly.

'It is good to see you, Ana. We've both been so busy as of late!' Angela was the perfect lady, and Fareeha's chest swelled with pride.

'Good evening, Mother.' Fareeha smiled a little, feeling shy as well, but muffling her developing notions of resentment and reminding herself that she was fortunate to have her mother around at all. This was no time to be childish. She had forgiven Ana. She wasn't a little girl anymore. Act the woman worthy of Angela Ziegler.

'Thanks for making time to join me for dinner. I have reservations at Restaurante Nunos Italiano. Shall we?'

'Indeed!'

Fareeha ended up driving to the place, the G.P.S. built into the car easily getting her to the rather expensive-looking restaurant. It was certainly fine-dining, and everything shone with brilliance, a pallet of golds and whites greeting the eye for as far as one could see. The trio were seated in a space reserved for V.I.P.s, and Fareeha felt a little underdressed, catching Angela's eyes and sharing a mutual giggle at their choice in outfits.

'I've been here once before. Their food is quite delicious.' Ana tucked herself into her seat, flipping through the elaborate menu.

'As have I. I recommend the gnocchi, Fareeha.'

'Good choice.' Ana affirmed.

Fareeha nodded, glancing through the food options but not feeling terribly hungry. Her stomach was in knots. This was her first intimate outing with her mother since their reconciliation and, despite being close until her "death", it just felt strained. An impenetrable wall had been erected, and the woman who had happily involved Fareeha in various forms of training as a little girl was isolating herself emotionally. Perhaps she always had, but Fareeha could only truly notice now that she was an adult and more competent with such things.

The waiter (a charming man who wasted little time "flirting" with all three women on various levels), took the drink orders soon thereafter, claiming he would be back as soon as possible. He was ruggedly handsome; similarly to Josiah. The type Fareeha found attractive. She noted his appeal, but that was all there was too it. She looked to Angela and knew the woman was all she could ever want.

'Hi.' Angela beamed back, and it was enough to make Fareeha blush in front of her mother.

'I'd like to begin this meal with a small toast.' Ana lifted her glass, Angela and Fareeha soon following her example. 'To Dr. Angela Ziegler for saving my daughter from the jaws of death. Words will never be capable of expressing my gratitude, but I will try until my final days.'

'Oh, Ana…' Angela clinked her glass against the others.

'It's true. How can I ever thank you enough?' Fareeha grinned.

'Simple. You don't leave my side, my knight.' Angela answered without a hint of reservation, and Fareeha was burning again, her mother chuckling.

'Knight, huh? That's cute. She does play that role pretty well, doesn't she?'

'Perfectly.' Angela concluded.

'Lots of talk around the base regarding you two. If it's not about Widowmaker or that Hana Song girl, it's about the seemingly untouchable Angela Ziegler finally finding love in another woman. I've never seen so many jealous males in my life.'

'Surely you exaggerate.' Angela laughed it off.

'I wish I was. It's almost comical.'

'Your daughter is a constant gift in my life, Ana.' Angela started, and Fareeha diverted her eyes in embarrassment. 'Not a second goes by that I don't thank whatever force led us together. In a way, I suppose I am partially thanking you for somewhat raising her to be the woman she is today. I love her with all my heart. And I promise you I will take care of her to the best of my abilities.'

Ana laughed at this.

'Well, when one of the best doctors in the world tells a mother that, what's she to say? I guess my little girl is in good hands, isn't she?'

Fareeha almost refuted the classification of her person, but she bit her comment down, aware she was being insecure at best.

'What about you, Fareeha?' Ana turned to her daughter, and Fareeha straightened up, meeting her mother's eye and softening at the sight of her aged face.

The drinks were delivered before Fareeha could answer, and when all three women were finished ordering, Fareeha didn't wait to be asked again.

'I've been with a few men before meeting Angela,' She stated painfully. 'And I can honestly say every single one of them pale in comparison to this woman I have been blessed to be so close to. She is the light in my life I didn't think I needed, and she has shown me what true love is.'

Angela's eyes began filling with a slight touch of water, but she didn't look away from Fareeha's intense gaze as she went on.

'She accepts all of me. Every facet of my being. She craves knowledge about me, and I've never felt closer to another human being. I will protect her until I can do so no more. I will protect her smile and her dreams. I will help bring about both. As part of the proud Amari name, I will never stop loving her.'

Angela mouthed the words "thank-you", and Fareeha nodded.

'My.' Ana chuckled. 'As if there was any doubt before, but you two have something very special. Something I don't see too often.' She took a drink of her expensive wine. 'It's almost funny, thinking back, because I remember quite clearly, for some reason, you telling me how pretty you thought Angela was when you first met her.'

Fareeha flinched back, her pulse skipping.

'Really?'

'Yes. That memory always stuck with me. Maybe because you were never one to care about aesthetics. So, when my tomboy of a daughter expressed her fascination with a certain prodigy's beauty, a mother took note. Now, here we sit, the two of you more in love than any couple I know of. Kind of poetic, isn't it?'

'Very…' Angela uttered quietly, her cheeks pink.

'I'm happy for you both. Really. Took me by surprise, but when I look at you girls, a parent can't help but be content. My daughter is happy. My friend is smiling more honestly than I can ever recall. This is good. And I can go on this next mission without regrets.'

Fareeha's throat tightened at the comment, and the food was brought a second later, the glorious aroma of the high-class meal almost distracting.

'You better be careful.' She said seriously, watching as Ana snickered to herself annoyingly.

'It's a doozy, let me tell you. I'm not in the front lines, but if this thing is a nest for black omnics, like we're suspecting it might be, even incomplete ones are going to be troublesome. This mission is officially being classified as a class SSS. Only the best of the best is allowed to participate. That's how cautious Jack and Winston are being.'

'If this facility is as important to Talon's plans as Moira and Sombra have revealed then, indeed, the defenses will surely be extreme. Fareeha and I will be attending the briefing, at the very least.' Angela concurred.

'I don't think that's necessary…' Ana stopped herself, shaking her head suddenly. 'That is, if you so wish to, then by all means.'

Fareeha blinked, and she controlled her emotions. It was such a minor change in attitude, yet it meant the world to her. Ana acknowledged her as a valued member of Overwatch. Ana supported her relationship. Ana had changed. They were having dinner together, for goodness sake.

'Thank-you, Mother…' Fareeha said while she could, her voice trembling.

Mercifully, neither woman called her out on the momentary lapse in stabilization.

'You're welcome, Fareeha.' A beat, where so many things were said without needing to be verbalized. 'Now, eat up before it gets cold. We can deal with the nitty gritty of the mission tomorrow. Tonight, let us enjoy one another's fellowship and the time we have together while it's here!'

'I'll raise my glass to that!' Angela giggled, and Fareeha smiled at her and then her mother before enjoying one of the best meals of her life.