Archive of Our Own ^beta

Angela smiles and calls a goodbye to her last patient. This vaccine clinic had gone well right from the start. The turnout was high and plenty of people got up to date without any trouble. A crying child here or there, of course, but a needle is scary to any child. Only a few vaccines are still administered via needle these days anyway, as the others have better options now. They've even branched out from vaccines that are only for humans; plenty of supernatural peoples have options now too.

She gets to work cleaning her station. Tomorrow, someone else will fill this one as they have another group of medical professionals volunteering. Some of today's faces are ones she finds familiar. She tries to keep in touch with the local hospitals near various Overwatch bases, so she's met a fair deal of people. Somewhere here is Ana as well. Despite her age, she has no issue volunteering for any and all spots she's needed.

The location chosen for the vaccine clinic is a small community center. Their cafeteria had been cleared out and separated by simple partitions. Each section is labeled with a letter and number and attended to by a volunteer. Her own spot is K8. Those she had vaccinated had their information sent to her device and she'd treated them accordingly.

Angela ensures her garbage is properly bagged and her sharps container is secured. She wipes the table and chair down one last time before deciding she's comfortable leaving it this way.

As she goes to leave, she spots her neighbor's section one over. The neighbor themself-- someone Angela hadn't recognized-- isn't there. Their space has yet to be picked up. There are wrappers from bandaids left on the table, as well as the plastic that the sterile sharps come in. She decides she can spare a bit of a good deed to help out.

Angela slips past the curtain and picks up the small garbage can that's beside the table. She holds it just under the table edge and sweeps her hand to bring the trash to it.

Only for something to prick her palm.

With a swear, she drops the trash can and yanks her hand away. A single drop of blood wells up from the spot. Mixed in with the bandaid wrappers is a used needle.

It seems no good deed goes unpunished.

This isn't the first time she's had an accidental stick, but she’s still anxious about it.

Trying not to appear too panicked, she heads for the sinks in the kitchen attached to the cafeteria. Warm water and soap. Please let that be all she needs.

"There you are, Angela."

She looks up to find Ana entering the room. Still, she keeps her hands under the water.

"Hello. How were your patients?"

Ana's eye glances at the sink before returning to Angela's. "As well as they could be. I even got to sign an autograph."

She chuckles. "I suppose that's the issue with some fame. Much harder to focus on the patient's needs."

"I suppose. Are you alright? You looked to be in a rush when you headed this way."

Angela frowns. "I had a needle stick."

Ana matches the expression. "Ah. I'll fetch a disinfectant."

She disappears back into the other room.

Warm water and soap. Disinfectant. Antibiotics may be a good idea. PEP too, just to be safe. A blood test sometime soon may be warranted as well. All tiring but necessary tasks. She has half a mind to find whoever had been her neighbor and give them a piece of her mind. The sharps container exists for a reason. There is absolutely no reason to leave a used needle on a table.

Ana returns with a can of disinfectant as well as a familiar face following her. Fareeha is always a pleasure to see.

The woman is talking casually with Ana as they approach but cuts off when she spots Angela.

And oh, the way her face lights up when she sees the doctor… Angela is proud to have that effect. The soft excitement Fareeha always seems to have at seeing her makes Angela feel happy and wanted. It's as though a whole forest's worth of butterflies has filled her up and are ready to burst from her. Whether out in the field or safe at home, Fareeha is a welcome sight.

"Angela! Mother didn't say it was you she was headed towards. All she said was "colleague"." She does the quotation marks in the air.

"Well, I hope you don't mind the surprise. She didn't mention you were picking her up."

Ana chuckles. "I didn't have time to. Other things were more important." She taps Angela's elbow. "Let's see it."

Angela withdraws her hand from the water. With the drop of blood long washed away, it's hard to even tell where the prick was.

With little warning, Ana sprays her whole palm with disinfectant. There’s a slight sting but little more. She then pats Angela’s palm dry with a paper towel.

“Alright. Should I assume you already have plans for what you want to take in precaution?”

“Of course. Once I'm back on base, I've got what I need."

Ana taps her finger on the can of disinfectant. "I was planning on heading back, but I think I'll write up the report for this. It's best if you get whatever you need sooner rather than later."

Angela pulls a bandaid from her pocket to cover the spot. "Are you certain? I don't mind at all."

"Go. Just message me the details." Ana nudges Fareeha. "Why don't you pass me your keys and go with her?"

Fareeha seems almost surprised at the suggestion. She looks to Angela. "Would that be okay with you?"

Angela smiles. "I always enjoy your company."

"See?" Ana cuts back in. "Now go. I'll be back in a bit."

With that, Ana takes the keys and heads off.

Fareeha watches her go. "Ten bucks says she comes back with Reinhardt."

Angela laughs and shakes her head. "I don't place bets I know I'll lose."

Now with the benefit of good company, Angela heads for her vehicle. Fareeha insists on driving; Angela doesn't mind. It gives her the freedom to message Ana the details she needs.

"So what kind of thing happens when you get stuck by a used needle? What do you need to take?"

Angela drums her fingers on her knees. "An antibiotic can prevent an infection. An antiviral could help prevent all sorts of viruses I could have picked up. Potentially most important is post exposure prophylaxis. If I was exposed to HIV, that can help prevent it from being a permanent resident in my blood." There's anxiety in thinking about it. "It is far lower of a risk nowadays, thankfully. We've made great strides in lowering how many people are affected by it."

Fareeha frowns as she lets out a hum. "If you do contract anything, I may have to have a chat with whoever left a needle out."

Despite the obvious threat that carries, Angela still finds it sweet. She rests a hand on the woman's arm. "My knight in flying armor."

Fareeha can only glance at her, needing to keep her eyes on the road, but she offers a smile. "I like being that for you. Out in the field or at home."

Angela sucks in a breath and her heart skips a beat. Does Fareeha even know she has this effect on her? She squeezes the woman’s arm.

“Always know just what to say, hm?”

There’s a chuckle. “I’m glad you think so. I’ve been told I’m too cheesy.”

“Well, lucky for you, I’m not lactose intolerant.”

“Now that was cheesy.” 

Despite Angela’s anxiety, she’s feeling a bit more cheery the more she talks with Fareeha. She’s optimistic that they’ll be able to get back to base, she’ll take what meds she needs to and be unaffected by this incident.

The next morning, Angela wakes up with a fever. She’s boiling hot and sweaty. Throwing off her blanket chills her with the sudden air.

So much for being unaffected.

As soon as she stands, she sways. There’s a moment of presyncope that almost makes her fall back on the bed. Her vision comes back into focus after a few long seconds.

Tea. She’ll get some tea and go right back to bed. The type of tea doesn’t matter right now, she’s happy with any. Acetaminophen would be a good idea as well.

She drags herself out of her room and down to the nearest kitchen. Every muscle seems to ache as if she’d had an intense workout the day before. Her heart is beating rather fast from just the walk down the hall.

One needle stick, barely into her skin, and now this.

The kitchen is empty. She’s able to get a kettle on the stove to heat before collapsing in a chair at the nearby table to wait.

Angela almost dozes there, but someone entering wakes her back up.

“Heya, Doc!” Lena greets. She heads for the cupboard for something but stops. “Oh, gosh. Ya’ lookin’ pretty red. Feelin’ okay?”

Angela shakes her head. “I have a fever, I’m certain. I’ll be headed to bed again after my tea.”

Frowning, Lena fidgets in place. “That ain’t good. Need me t’ get ya’ anything?”

“Hm… I could use some acetaminophen from the infirmary. If you wouldn’t mind?”

She gives a little two finger salute. “On it!” And she dashes out the door again.

If only Angela could have even half as much of that energy today. She barely wants to bother getting up to pour her tea when the kettle whistles. She can’t remember the last time she was so sick. She does her best to stay healthy in all the ways that work. If she needs to update a vaccine, she gets one. She washes her hands as needed and she takes her vitamins.

But one little damn needle…

Lena reenters the room and sets three different bottles on the table. Fareeha follows behind her.

“Alright, you had three different strengths, so I just grabbed ‘em all.” Lena bounces on her feet. “I can go back for other stuff if ya’ need. Brought a friend too."

Angela waves her off and grabs the highest strength bottle. “Thank you.”

Fareeha has yet to say anything, but she sits beside Angela. There’s concern on her face as she reaches over and presses her wrist to Angela’s forehead.

“Lena told me you weren't feeling well. You’re hot.”

Angela manages a chuckle. “Sweet talker.”

Fareeha huffs. “I’m not flirting this time. You have a fever.”

Angela watches as Lena has to practically climb on the counter to get cereal from the top cupboard. No wonder the woman ends up with so many bruises.

"I'll be just fine, Fareeha. I'm headed right back to bed after my tea." She tosses a couple pills into her mouth and gulps some tea to wash them down.

Fareeha pulls her hand away. She's still frowning.

Lena takes one of the free seats at the table. "Ain't like you t' get sick," she says through a mouthful of cereal.

"She got stuck with a used needle by accident yesterday," Fareeha explains.

"Bah. Hate needles. You helped at the vaccine clinic, yeah? Guessin' it happened there."

"Mhm," is all Angela can respond.

"Gross. D'ya know who used the needle? Like the person who got the vaccine. Cause then maybe you can find out what you're at risk for."

"My mother talked to the person who left the needle out. No way to know who they used it on, unfortunately." Fareeha shakes her head. "Ridiculous to leave something like that out."

"They just left a used needle out? Thought medical types have a special box for 'em."

"We do. I do not know why they hadn't put it away." Angela takes the last sip of her tea. "Well, I would stay and chat, but I believe sleep is calling my name." She pushes herself up.

Fareeha stands as well. "Let me walk you to your room."

"Have a good sleep, Ang! Feel better!" Lena says as they leave the room.

Angela’s body still aches. If anything, it's gotten worse. The pain slows her steps noticeably.

"Angela, you seem in a bad way… I should get my mom to see you."

"I will be fine, I'm sure. If I can't sleep it off, I'll make sure to tell her. But right now, I just want to be in bed."

"You look like you're in pain," the woman admits.

Angela shrugs. "My room isn't far."

Fareeha purses her lips. And then, with little warning, she scoops Angela up. "Let me help." She pauses. "If this is okay?"

Being picked up had been a surprise, but Angela certainly doesn't mind it. Being carried bridal style by a woman she's interested in? If only she weren't sick!

"I'd only be annoyed if you put me down."

Fareeha chuckles and heads on. "Well, whenever you want to do away with walking, just let me know."

Angela curls in towards her. She's comfortable and warm. Fareeha even smells nice; that's something she's been able to know from their shared hugs. It’s easy to start drifting off again too.

They arrive back at Angela’s room and she’s set into bed. Fareeha pulls the blanket over her.

Angela mumbles a thanks.

Before sleep can take her, Fareeha has a bit more to say. “I’ll make sure your phone is in arm’s reach. Call if you need me. I’m letting my mother know how you’re feeling.”

There’s a huff as Angela closes her eyes and sinks into her spot. “If you must.”

“As if you’d be happy if any of us kept this sort of thing from you.”

“Hmph,” is the only response.

By the next day, Ana insists on checking on Angela.

Her fever has yet to break and she’s only just shy of 101°F. Her body is still achey and she doesn’t have much of an appetite. Ana draws some blood to see if anything is showing yet.

Angela finds herself damn near doted on as Fareeha makes sure she’s available for any little thing that could be needed. She brings her anything she asks for, though Angela isn’t fond of asking for more. Food, drink, and anything else is brought to her room so she doesn’t have to get up. She doesn’t do much more than sleep but her body doesn’t seem interested in more. 

The day after, she has barely improved. Sleep, sleep, and more sleep.

Her blood test comes back clean, thankfully. But that doesn’t change how she’s feeling. There’s still a chance something will show in a few days or more. Hopefully not, though.

On day three, her aches and pains mostly abate. She still sleeps a good deal, but not nearly as much as the two days before.

Angela gets a real treat in watching a movie with Fareeha. They both sit in her bed and Angela leans into Fareeha’s side. It’s a comfortable place to be.

By evening, Angela feels as if her fever has broken. Her aches and pains are minimal enough to be ignored, and she regains her hunger.

"Regains" might be an understatement, in all honesty. She feels like she eats more that night than she's had in the last week.

Angela returns to full duty the next day. Maybe it's just the comparison to her previous few days, but it feels like she's overflowing with energy.

But really, how can she complain about that?

How is it that every time Angela even entertains the possibility of taking Fareeha out on a date, work gets in the way?

A few days have passed since Angela’s fever broke, and ideally, she'd take Fareeha out as a way to thank her for her care. But fate seems to be a cruel mistress, as Fareeha has been sent off to do a job for Overwatch.

This has happened many times. Things would be much further along with their relationship if the damned world wouldn't need saving every other weekend.

Fareeha could say "Let's get dinner on friday" and an hour later, Winston would send one of them off to some iced over base in the arctic. Angela could suggest they visit a museum together, and Talon would decide to set fire to the very same museum for-- for fun or something.

She's tired of it. Fareeha is a damned beautiful woman and Angela wants to go on a few proper dates with her! She's interested! Fareeha is interested! So why the hell can't the world give them a break?

All of this is going through Angela’s mind as she's hunched over a massive order of poutine in one of the mess halls on base. Her body seems to still be catching up on all the missed calories from while she was sick. Her appetite has been huge since her fever passed, and she's never been one to deny herself food when hungry. It's better to listen to what your body needs, and hers is saying "eat!"

At some point, Lena appears and sits across from her. She’s got some takeout with her.

"Heya, doc. Mind if I join ya?"

Angela shrugs; her mouth is too full to answer at the moment. She can, however, smell honey and garlic and sesame from the food Lena has. Sesame chicken, at a guess.

"I saw Fareeha got sent off on that mission. Rein and Niran too. Pretty much halves the people who come to board game night. Narin said he'd go at least." She places her bag on the table. "Think maybe I could convince Hanzo in this time? Or Satya?"

Angela swallows her mouthful and manages to speak. "Oh yes, invite Hanzo, he certainly would have no issue losing to his brother in any way at all."

Lena blinks. She seems surprised by the tone. "Well-- suppose you're right. Might be able to get Satya in still. Jack too, if I bug him enough. Ashe would never, but Bob might."

"Aren't they a packaged deal?"

It's Lena's turn to shrug. "Dunno. I mean, Bob is still his own person. Cass says he's basically her dad. Guess she feels safest with him, yeah? Doesn't mean he can't come to game night."

Angela mostly listens as Lena talks. Her mouth is occupied with forkful after forkful of gravy covered fries.

"Zen is on base, actually. He's usually willing to join us! Oh, oh, and Mei! Forgot she’s here too!" Lena does an excited little clap. "She's real good at Catan."

"Isn't Catan a bit of a slow game for you?" the doctor asks through half a mouthful of food.

Lena shrugs. "I usually watch for that one. Never got the hang of it. Plenty of others, though." She fidgets a bit more before removing her food from the bag. "I got a chinese. Been craving some sesame chicken for ages now."

Somehow the smell of the chicken makes Angela feel even hungrier. How that works when she's eaten most of her poutine at this point, she doesn't know. Her body must have really taken a blow from that fever.

Lena bounces her leg under the table. Despite the food in front of her, she continues to talk. "Jack said he thinks there's gonna be trouble out in Egypt again. Usually means Fareeha and Ana will make sure they're on the team. You signin' up too if that happens?"

Angela sets her fork down, her plate now empty save for a puddle of gravy. "Well, I suppose that's the only way I'll be able to spend any time with Fareeha," she complains. "If I even consider asking her out, the universe decides it has other plans."

Lena lowers her fork midway to her mouth. "Well… you two seem t' be dodgin' around that a bit, yeah? Feels like for years."

With a scoff, Angela raises an eyebrow. "I won't hear judgment on that from you, Lena. Not until you don't sneak off for little trips into enemy territory."

Lena turns bright red in half a second flat. "Don't tell Jack," she squeaks.

A sigh. "I would not." She can't help but soften a bit. "He could not judge you when he makes plenty of his own trips there too." A hand goes to her forehead. "With Fareeha… We've talked. We know what we mean to each other. There have simply always been other things to focus on. She had much to deal with when it came to Ana's disappearance, and far more when Ana came back." Still, Angela had held Fareeha through so much of Ana's return. The poor woman had suffered a whirl of emotions then. "And I have my own baggage that popped up at an… inopportune time."

"You mean Moi--"

"Do not say her name." The demand comes out almost as a snarl.

Lena looks outright startled. "Right! Sorry!"

Angela frowns. She hadn't intended to be so harsh. "No, I-- I am sorry for snapping. I suppose she is still a sore subject."

"Well, you've got one hell of an upgrade!"

"I do, don't I? If I ever get a chance to really have her."

Lena bites her lip. "I mean, Narin joining us takes some of the weight off of you. Maybe you'll get a chance soon? It ain't like the old days where we didn't have many doctors on board." She sets her fork down and removes something else from the bag her order came in. "Want my white rice? I won't eat it."

Angela accepts the rice without hesitation and immediately dumps it into what's left of the gravy on her plate.

"Narin is very talented, and his technology is nothing short of miraculous. But I face what I always seem to face. I remain the one medic on base that knows the intricacies of nearly every member of Overwatch. I know my part in keeping you anchored in the correct timeline. Ana's chronic pain, Cassidy's occasional prosthesis issues, who gets what medicine at what dose and why. Some request that I be the only one to know parts of their medical history. I would never betray that trust. And my responsibility to my people is important to meet." She doesn't look at Lena as she explains this. She just stirs her rice into the gravy. "Additionally, I am currently the only one with training with supernatural peoples. None in Overwatch meet that distinction, but still. Even if I have little true experience with fae, lycans, and such, I must be available." She scoops up some rice. "I am thankful for every bit of help I get. But if someone needs me, I will be there."

Lena sighs and seems almost sad as she smiles at Angela. "Guess that's why we call you an angel, eh, doc? I still think you should go for Fareeha. Maybe when she gets back." She takes a bite of her food and watches the doctor as she chews. "You not eat lately or somethin'? Can't remember the last time I saw you this hungry."

Angela pauses with the fork part way to her mouth. She's already a third of the way through her rice and gravy concoction.

"I barely ate while sick. I'm assuming that's why I'm so hungry now."

"Ah, I getcha."

Angela sets her water bottle back in the cup holder of the treadmill. A bit of water and she’s right back to running.

Despite still running a bit hot, Angela is finding herself feeling great. Physically, at least. The usual exhaustion she tends to face after a busy few days of work hasn't hit her as of yet. She reasons it must be the same as always, but simply feel differently after such a hard illness. She’s using that difference to her advantage and getting a bit more exercise.

Still, her patience has seemed especially thin as of late. She does her best to manage it, but her inhibitions seem somewhat lowered. Perhaps something is bothering her? If so, she has no idea what.

And then Fareeha comes to mind. The woman herself is far from a bother. No, it's the fact that she’s still away on a mission and messages are few and far between.

Fareeha had put in so much work taking care of Angela. She'd even held Angela some of the time as she kept her company.

Maybe that's it. Maybe Angela is feeling a bit more touch starved than usual. Maybe all she needs is a solid hug. What she'd kill for is Fareeha to be back and then maybe they can spend some time together. A quiet dinner together, a movie, a couch just a bit too small so they have to be close…

She sighs to herself.

"Hello, Angela!"

Angela is almost startled. She'd been so lost in her thoughts that she hadn't noticed Mei.

"Hello, Mei. Going for a run?"

Mei steps onto the treadmill beside her. "Yes! Mind if I take this one?"

"Not at all."

Mei takes a moment to set up. She hums to herself as she does. Her little robot, Snowball, gets set on the front of the treadmill.

"I heard the last team that got sent out should be back soon! Winston mentioned it earlier."

Angela can't help but perk up at that. "I'd heard about their victory but hadn't heard they were already traveling. I expected a few more days yet.” The sooner they’re back, the better. "Oh, I'd meant to ask. You mentioned going on a date recently. Did it go well?"

Mei is immediately all smiles. "I had so much fun! We intend to go out again."

"Good! Do I know them?"

Red rushes to her cheeks. "She prefers her privacy. I'd rather check and make sure she's okay with it before I say."

That certainly makes Angela more curious. "Ah, well, I hope things continue to go well. Hopefully she's aware how many dangerous people have your back too."

Mei giggles. "She knows!" She taps the treadmill's controls. "What about you? Lena told me how Fareeha took care of you when you were sick."

"Of course she did. Lena enjoys talking." Angela contemplates pausing her run for a long drink but decides against it. She wants to keep this stride. "I'm lucky to have Fareeha. I intend to solidify our relationship at the nearest opportunity. The sooner the better."

Another giggle from Mei. "I hope the chance comes soon for you! I think some of the others have bets on when it might happen."

Angela sighs. Everyone really does know how she feels, hm?

"Well, if she's truly coming back sooner than expected, then whomever bets for “soon” will hopefully be correct. It’s all about having the time and ability.” She nearly misses a step. The amount of time she’s spent thinking about Fareeha on top of the annoyance that she doesn’t have the woman cemented at her side yet… It’s far too much.

“I’m sure you’ll be able to!”

“Before or after you introduce us to your mystery woman?” Angela jokes.

The color returns to Mei’s cheeks, but she laughs. “I don’t know. We’ve only had one date anyway.”

“Well, you seem optimistic about my chances, so I will be optimistic about yours.”

“Thanks!” Mei steps onto the sides of her treadmill. “Ugh, I don’t like running.”

Angela chuckles. “Maybe stationary bikes would be better cardio for you? I’ll join you if you prefer to head over that way.”

“Umm, sure! If it’s not interrupting your workout.”

“It’s not. I’ve already run for,” she glances at the time. “ Himmel ! Nearly two hours. I usually only do half that. I can most certainly switch over to the bikes.” Two hours and she’s only just a bit sweaty. How long was she lost in her thoughts? It’d be embarrassing if it weren’t impressive.

Mei turns her treadmill off. “Maybe you’d join me for the little bit of weight lifting I do after too?”

“Sure! It’d do me some good.”

The next day, Fareeha returns.

Angela isn’t sure why, but she feels like she senses it before anyone tells her. The strange feeling makes her wander from her work. Her path takes her down the hall, into the neighboring wing, and to the hangar. She isn’t even half way there when she’s certain she hears the unloading of the ship.

When she enters the hangar, Reinhardt is carrying his own suitcase along with another that certainly isn’t his. It’s likely Ana’s, judging by her walking beside him.

They both smile when they see her.

“Angela!” Reinhardt exclaims. “It is good to see you!”

“I’m glad you all returned. No lasting injuries, I would hope?”

“No,” Ana chimes in. “That new boy who joined is quite skilled. A pleasure to work with.”

“His technology will benefit the world if used well, I’m sure.” Angela hesitates for a moment. “Is Fareeha still on the ship?”

Ana seems amused at the question, but she doesn’t get to answer it.

“Angela!” comes a call again, though this time it’s from the open doorway into the ship. Fareeha has just stepped out with a duffle bag in hand. She’s looking well in her unzipped jacket over a simple tank top with shorts.

Angela breaks out into a grin. She hears Ana chuckle and suggest to Reinhardt they continue on as she heads past the pair and to her desired soldier.

Fareeha drops her duffle bag and greets her with a hug. She pulls her in tight and holds her there.

Angela is all too willing for it. She can't help but bury her nose against the woman's shoulder. Taking a deep breath, she also traces her fingers over the woman's spine. They're like this for a few long, wonderful seconds.

"You smell good," Angela can't stop herself from saying as they part. They remain close though, barely a step apart.

"Heh. I'm glad you think so. And here I was sure I'd forgotten deodorant this morning."

A shrug. "Perhaps I'm just fond of your natural scent."

With a sudden rush of confidence, Angela takes hold of the loose front ends of her unzipped jacket and tugs her in even closer. Fareeha seems surprised but far from uninterested by it.

"Dinner. Tonight? I've missed you."

For one brief moment, Fareeha seems ecstatic. But her face quickly falls and she’s frowning far too much for Angela to expect a yes.

"I want to, but my father has a layover nearby, and I promised him dinner already." She offers an apologetic look. "How about tomorrow?"

Angela frowns. "Lena is expecting me-- and likely you-- at her game night as not enough people attended her last one. We could go together. But the day after, dinner with just us?"

Opening her mouth to answer, Fareeha instead shuts it again. She sighs. "I… promised Winston I'd help him with the virtual training that evening."

With her own sigh, Angela gives up for now.

"Hm. Well, I suppose we play it by ear." She tugs Fareeha a bit so they're all but against each other. Her voice drops low. "But you can't escape me forever, Miss Fareeha. I fully intend to get you alone and thank you for that wonderful care you provided me while I was sick."

It gives Angela a sense of pride to see the blush consuming her Fareeha’s face at the statement. Her speechlessness only contributes to it further.

Someone clears their throat.

Both women start. Standing behind Fareeha, unable to get past them through the ship's door, is Narin.

"Hello, ladies. May I get by?" There's amusement on his face, rather than embarrassment at what he's witnessed.

"Of course!" Fareeha practically blurts out. She scoops her dufflebag up and, guiding Angela away with her other hand, takes some comically large steps out of the ship and into the hangar.

Narin passes by, shooting Angela a wink as he does so. His scent reminds her of apple trees.

Fareeha is the brightest shade of red that Angela has ever seen her be. She can't help but reach up and cup the woman's face. For some reason, it's almost as if she can sense the woman's heartbeat going just a trifle faster than normal.

"Did you know he was there?"

Angela laughs. "I was far too preoccupied with a beautiful woman."

With a huff, Fareeha leans into the hand on her cheek. "Aren't I supposed to be the one having an effect on you ?"

"You do have an effect on me. Almost constantly. Popping into my mind at the most inopportune moments while you were gone." She hums. "During the day, of course. And during the night… "

Fareeha gulps. Slowly, as if she’s afraid of making a sudden move, she reaches up and takes Angela’s hand from her cheek. She's gentle as she brings the doctor's knuckles to her lips. A gentle kiss is pressed to them.

"I have to go before you convince me to cancel on my dad." Her breath tickles over Angela’s hand as she speaks. "I promise, as soon as we can, we'll have a proper date. No distractions, no training, just us. Okay?"

"You're lucky I don't tag along and meet your father," Angela jokes.

Fareeha’s eyes go wide. "That is the most terrifying thing you've ever said to me. I mean-- Not because of you meeting my father, but-- well, I've never introduced a woman I was seeing to him before, so he'd know how serious I am about you and-- Alright, I should go before I talk myself into a hole." She squeezes Angela’s hand and releases it. "I'll see you later, Ang. And we'll plan a date, promise!"

"I'll hold you to that."

"This is a way better turnout for game night!" Lena exclaims.

Angela smiles and leans into Fareeha’s side. This may not be the ideal, but they're going to enjoy each other's company.

"I appreciate the invitation," Narin chimes in.

“‘Course! Always good to have more friends in on it!" The woman bounces on her heels. "Basically, just find an open spot on a game and join in!"

The room is filled with various Overwatch agents or affiliates. The normal bunch are here; Lena, Lucio, Cole, Hana, and Brigitte. Reinhardt is noticeably missing, but given that Ana is as well, he likely had previous arrangements. Narin has joined them for the first time. Zenyatta is here, as is Genji. Mei had shown up late. Surprisingly, she'd been trailed by a rather annoyed Ashe. Bob too, of course.

Fareeha had arrived with Angela. They may not be able to have their private date tonight, but like hell will Angela not see her at all.

There's a pile of board games on one of the tables, as well as some card games to the side. Lena is the first to hop over and grab what she'd like to play.

Angela doesn't have much of a preference at the moment. Some are more fun than others, but as long as she's not playing Monopoly, she'll be fine.

Small groups are formed for different games. She ends up playing an iteration of one called Life. She remembers it being different when she was young, but maybe she's mistaken. Fareeha plays as well, and the board is rounded out by Bob, and Mei. Ashe doesn't join any table. Instead, she reclines on the nearby sofa with her hat tipped down over her eyes. Not asleep, Angela is sure. Just uninterested.

There's a moment part way through the game where Fareeha asks to be passed a pink piece as she's just landed on a space to be married. Impulse nearly pushes Angela to hand over the piece that represents her own little character. She resists. No reason to risk discomfort from their friends just so she can flirt.

Bob wins the game. Between the high paying job card he'd pulled and the various other accrued assets, he'd won the game by far.

The four of them chat as they wait for a nearby game to finish so something larger can be set up.

Winston arrives just before they start another game. He apologizes for being so late, but no one minds.

The night progresses and more and more board games are either opened up or at the very least considered. Lena gets nearly half the group to play some card game she likes.

Eventually, Angela sits back and takes a break from the games. She watches her friends around her as they play. Lena and Hana are leaning over some complicated instructions. Bob and Winston found a chess board somewhere and are going against each other. Ashe has been convinced into a friendly game of poker with Lucio, Mei, and Narin.

It's amusing to watch the game between the four. Angela silently bets that Ashe will win, though she's not sure of Narin's skill. What truly surprises her is Mei winning a majority of the hands played. Perhaps the others underestimate her.

Lena and Hana give up trying to figure out the instructions somewhere in the middle of the poker games. Hana has pulled out some sort of gaming handheld and is telling Lena tricks to best some enemy or other.

Eventually, Fareeha disappears to get herself and Angela something to drink.

Angela hums softly to herself. She's content here. All around her are people she trusts. The air itself seems to carry some sort of comforting aroma. There's chatter around her as the others talk over their chosen games. It all lends to a feeling of ease that leaves her almost sleepy. She wouldn't mind curling up, hopefully beside Fareeha, and basking in the comfort she has here.

As if thinking of her summoned her back, Fareeha reappears with a soda for herself and an ice water for Angela. She takes her spot beside the woman.

"Thank you."

"Of course."

Angela takes a sip of her water and sets it down. She then scootches a bit closer to Fareeha. Hooking an arm under Fareeha’s, Angela pulls it halfway onto her lap to hold her hand. Her cheek is resting on the other woman's shoulder.

Fareeha turns her head towards Angela enough for her to hear a low, "Are you tired?"

Angela hums. "Perhaps a bit. But I am just enjoying the night. I am beside you and we are surrounded by our friends… I am content."

Fareeha squeezes her hand. "It might not be the date night we wanted, but it's still fun."

"It is. You still remain a temptation, I'll have you know." Impossibly, Angela gets closer to the other woman and nuzzles against her neck. Her lips brush the woman's skin as she speaks. "I know you're training tomorrow evening. But the day after… are you free?"

Fareeha sucks in a breath. It comes out again as a low chuckle. "No. I have dinner with you."

"Damn right you do."

The night goes on. Angela spends most of it in that spot against Fareeha. They're both convinced into another board game, but only a round or two. Angela has reached the point where she'd rather watch instead of play. Fareeha still joins a few.

It's just past midnight when people start excusing themselves. Genji slips away somewhere. Winston says a goodnight and departs. Not everyone is ready to end the night, however. Lucio and Lena are on either side of Hana, leaning against her as she plays on her handheld.

Others seem to have ended the night more by accident. Angela is surprised to see Ashe and Mei beside each other on one of the sofas. Mei has fallen asleep with her head on Ashe's shoulder. And Ashe, well, she seems to be pretending not to notice. Arms crossed, hat tilted forward enough to hide a majority of her expression. Or maybe she's trying to look just angry enough that it'll deter anyone from mentioning it.

Angela suddenly is quite certain on who Mei's recent date was with.

Fareeha yawns and Angela finds herself mimicking it.

"Perhaps it is time to call it a night," she comments.

The other woman nods. "I definitely could use some sleep."

They say their goodbyes to those left.

In the dim, quiet halls, Angela finds herself hand in hand with Fareeha.

"Sweet of you to walk me to my room," she comments.

"I've got to extend my time with you somehow, don't I?" Fareeha squeezes her hand. "Besides, who knows what dangers could lurk in these halls!"

Angela chuckles. "Whatever would I do without you? I could be cornered by a terrifying dust bunny! Or worse! A sock that's been dropped on the way to the laundry room!"

Fareeha grins. "With some of the stink a sock might get from around here, it could genuinely do damage. Imagine Junkrat dropped it."

"Ugh. Now that truly is terrifying."

"Mm. I'll save you regardless." They come to a stop outside Angela’s room. "Here we are."

Angela stands there, facing Fareeha, hands still interlocked.

"I can't wait for our date," she murmurs. "I've only waited for who knows how long."

"No canceling, no other plans. I promise. We'll have a nice meal and do whatever you want to after."

"Whatever we want to. We make that choice together."

Angela closes the distance between them. She intends to kiss the woman goodnight.

It's in this minimal distance that something seems to jump in her. It's both familiar but a stranger. It seems to be pushing her forward, practically begging for this small distance to be crossed. Fareeha, this part of her cries. Fareeha, Fareeha, Fareeha . Angela wants nothing more than Fareeha at this moment.

The drive, the sudden urge, gives Angela some hesitation. She wants to pull Fareeha against her, to beg, to kiss, to sink her teeth into her. Her bed isn't far behind this door they stand by, but Angela isn't sure they'd even make it there if she were to give in. She isn't sure if she'd care either. All she wants is to give into this want, to give into Fareeha.

Fuck, she wants all of Fareeha, every bit. She might damn well eat her alive.

It takes monumental resistance to reign all these feelings in. She can't remember why they haven't done anything yet, why she doesn't have Fareeha pinned beneath her right this moment. But still, she controls these urges.

Fareeha looks at her with a soft, confused smile. Her head is tilted just a bit. She has no idea the carnality of the thoughts Angela is fighting.

"Ang?"

Her voice breaks the silence and nearly Angela’s resolve.

Angela takes a deep breath. She leans in and kisses the corner of the woman's mouth. She'd been aiming for her cheek.

"Goodnight, Fareeha."

She can hear the way Fareeha’s heartbeat quickens.

"Goodnight, Angela. Sleep well."

Angela forces herself to release Fareeha’s hand and enter the room.

There's a long few seconds before she hears footsteps headed away.

"Bombs away!" There's a giggle and a not too distant explosion. Lena zips back over to the group. "How many is 'at for me?"

"Check the scoreboard at the end. Right now, we focus." Vivian reloads her gun. "With the first stretch cleared, we have three minutes tops before reinforcements arrive. We move now to secure our next position. Reports say they have air support, so we stay low and under cover as far as possible."

Angela can't help but be amused by Vivian's no nonsense attitude for this training. Still, it's smart to act as though this is real. Practice is invaluable.

Angela hadn't originally been a part of this training. She'd known about it, of course, but she hadn't planned on joining in. But a spot opened up and she had little better to do.

This training is mostly dealing with combating air support. It's why Winston had asked Fareeha to help. Fareeha is their main opponent for this mission, and she has hardlight soldiers helping her. The soldiers are courtesy of Satya. They can be programmed to do nearly anything. Outside of the airborne hardlights, some of the other soldiers have special abilities as well. One is able to throw a hook and pull whoever they catch out of the group. Another can climb walls, another has a gun with small bombs. There’s a chance of more, but Winston had mentioned he wanted more focus on fighting the airborn soldiers.

So far, they’ve had little issue with the first few waves. Lena is a bit distractable as always, and Hana enjoys cracking enough jokes to just manage to get on Vivian’s nerves. The four of them are still an excellent team.

“Once we reach the extraction point, we’ll call in. That’s when the enemy will come out in full force. They’ll do anything to keep us from getting out of here with intel.” Vivian ensures her gun is loaded. “D.va, you’re leading the charge to the point. Tracer, you back her up and clear any hostiles that make her a target. Mercy, you stay in between us. You already know your job. I’ll be following up the back and keeping them off our tail.”

Her job, as always, is to keep everyone alive and healthy.

Despite her familiarity with this sort of situation, Angela still feels hyped up. She’s ready and willing to get through this. It may not be a particularly useful gun, but her pistol remains firm at her side. It hasn’t been used as of yet.

Vivian looks to each of them. “Everyone got it?”

There’s a small chorus back in the affirmative.

“Yeah!”

“Yup.”

“Of course.”

She seems pleased. “Alright. Let’s get moving.”

A trickle of hardlight soldiers greets them almost immediately. That trickle turns into a stream as they push closer to their objective.

They decide to take a path under a bridge that gives them cover, but it proves difficult. The confined space ahead of them fills with hardlights. Hana has no issue plowing through them. Her mech takes some hits and allows Angela to feel useful in patching it with her staff. Lena needs a top up from time to time as well. Vivian needs her the least as she deals with a lower number of hardlights entering the tunnel-like space behind them. She’s able to block the entrance whenever her disruptor has enough charge.

Hana charges forward again. The jets on her mech send it crunching through half a dozen hardlights. The opened space lets Lena blink forward and finish them off. Angela goes to follow, but she glances back to check on Vivian.

Only to find Vivian missing.

Farther back is a small crowd of hardlight soldiers surrounding when Angela can only just make out to be the missing soldier on the ground. She must have been wrenched away by a hardlight with a hook.

Angela acts rather than thinks, snarling as she presses towards the woman. Her pistol clears just enough of the soldiers to allow her to latch on. Her wings open and speed her forward.

Before Vivian can be finished off, Angela is beside her. She grabs the woman's collar and yanks her to her feet as though she weighs no more than Lena. Vivian seems startled by the rough reentry to standing tall.

"How the hell--"

"Fight now, questions later!"

The woman's mouth snaps shut.

Vivian focuses on unleashing the power store in her gun now that the charge is ready. Within two shots, the oncoming soldiers are cleared enough for them to break through and exit the tunnel. They push forward to the objective with Angela healing any damage Vivian takes along the way.

Hana is not far off. She’s taking out wave after wave of hardlight soldiers. Her laughter indicates she sees this practice as far more fun than the real thing.

Lena is nowhere to be seen, but her blink can be heard just beyond. She's just inside one of the nearby houses-- and, no, now she's over with Hana again. She's rewound herself.

The sound of jets starts up.

Something shoots across the sky above them. It’s one of the airborne hardlights.

Angela braces herself. Time to see exactly how well her team can handle this.

Well enough, it turns out. All four of them make it to extraction. Each is a little battered, but training sessions don't do more than superficial damage.

The debriefing is an upbeat Winston with Cole hovering nearby.

Angela finds herself spacing out through most of it.

Something something well done, something something prepared, something something soldiers.

She's distracted by her thoughts of the following day. So little stands between her and a real date with Fareeha! A real date that could finally lead to something physical on top of their already romantic interactions. She's practically salivating.

Her distraction becomes worse when Fareeha finally enters the room after finishing putting away the gear she worked with. Winston thanks her. She says it's not a problem before taking the seat beside Angela.

The debrief continues.

Angela finds herself ecstatic when Fareeha moves her chair a bit closer. Their knees bump.

Despite the situation around them, she feels that urge in her again. It's a strange desire to sink her teeth into something. A hunger not led by her stomach. In the back of her mind, she wonders if it's some stronger form of lust, unfamiliar before now as she's never been as interested in a person as she is Fareeha. In the front of her mind, however, she basks in the proximity and feigns her attention to the debrief.

Winston finally dismisses them.

As they all file out of the room, Fareeha motions her to the side.

"Angela, you did great out there."

"High praise from the falcon that took the skies above us."

Fareeha chuckles. "Being the enemy let me be more reckless. I could never do some of what I did if it were a true combat scenario." She shakes her head. "Anyway… A far more interesting topic I wanted to ask about. What did we want to do for dinner tomorrow? We've yet to discuss it."

Angela finds her focus slipping from Fareeha’s words to her body. The woman is in her usual workout gear: basketball shorts and a sports bra. She likely wore it under her suit during the training. Every bit of the woman is a distraction. The definition in her muscles seems almost exaggerated today. The scars of a life well lived stand out, lighter against her brown skin. Some are the remnants of wounds Angela herself has closed. Others, she's been told the story. There's one on her abdomen that had bled horribly, but she had fought on. Smaller ones pepper her left bicep. The remnants of shrapnel long removed. Angela finds her eyes drawn up from them to Fareeha’s shoulder. No scars have found a place there as of yet. But the muscle there…

Something stirs in her. 

Trapezius. That's the name of the muscle that connects Fareeha’s neck and shoulder. As Fareeha shifts her stance, the muscle flexes for a moment. Angela finds her mouth watering at the sight. She wonders how Fareeha might react if she scraped her teeth over that skin. What if she bit down? Would Fareeha enjoy it? Would she want more? How much of herself would Fareeha give to Angela? She can practically hear the woman's heartbeat; it pumps a trifle faster as Fareeha realizes how much of a look Angela is taking right now. Would she be able to feel each beat against her tongue if she bit? Taste her blood when licking over the teeth marks? Would it fill her mouth? Drip down her throat, spill back over her lips?

For the second time in the last week, the sound of someone clearing their throat snaps the spell between the women.

Vivian stands to the side of them with an eyebrow raised.

"Need a minute with you, Angela," the woman says.

Angela reigns her thoughts in with some effort. Most have already fled her memory as it is, leaving behind a clouded state of arousal.

She nods to Vivian but holds a finger up. Addressing Fareeha, she says, "Perhaps you could find us a restaurant nearby?"

"Any preference on the kind?"

It only takes a moment for her to decide. "One that serves steak, I think."

"Got it! I'll let you know what I find." Fareeha gives her one last smile before heading off.

Angela turns to Vivian. "What is it you need?"

"How the hell did you lift me during training?"

"What do you mean?"

She purses her lips. "You lifted me right off the ground and onto my feet. Me . These cybernetics aren't what I'd call light. I have biosynthetic muscle fibers to ensure I can handle the weight of myself."

"I know what modifications you have," Angela responds with an amused scoff. "I saw you surrounded by enemies. I likely had a rush of adrenaline that let me do it."

"In a training scenario? Ang, you're far too experienced to have that much adrenaline around hardlights."

She can't help but shrug. "I have no other explanation. Unless you believe my hour lifting weights with Mei a few days ago could have done something," she jokes.

Vivian knits her brow and studies Angela. "There has to be something. Maybe supernatural?"

Angela has no ideas. She had forgotten it had even happened until Vivian brought it up. Had she felt adrenaline fueled at the time? … No. Active, certainly, but she remembers feeling just fine. Annoyed, perhaps. But what other explanation for her strength could there be? She's an unaltered human; none of her bones or muscles have had to be replaced by anything synthetic. The extent of non-organic parts installed into her body is a filling in a tooth. Perhaps she carries some sort of supernatural blood, but she’s an orphan. How could she know?

"Truly, Vivian, I do not know."

Vivian looks at her like she's a puzzle to be solved. After a moment of silence, she sighs. "Alright. I guess some things just can't be explained."

Angela gives her a sympathetic smile. "If I think of any other reasons, I'll let you know."

Soon. Soon!

Dinner with Fareeha, and a solid and real start to the relationship she's certain to end the night with. They'll enjoy each other's company over a nice meal.

Angela’s true goal? The moment to see if Fareeha is ready for them to be serious. She's rather tired of dancing around their attractions. They're adults damnit! Not teenagers with their first crush.

Fareeha will be ready. Of this, Angela is confident.

After dinner, Angela hopes they can spend more private time together. The way her body reacts when she thinks of Fareeha in that way, why, it's damn near shameful. She gets goosebumps if she thinks of Fareeha’s hands pulling her in. Thinking of anything more than that gets her outright aroused.

These last few weeks have had her body feel overclocked. Her patience is little, but her will to act is overflowing. Fareeha will be hers tonight.

Angela digs through her dresser in search for a suitable outfit. She wants to show a bit of skin. Teasing Fareeha with that will be fun. She wants to look tempting . She wants to make Fareeha’s mouth water with the thought of her. She wants the physical aspect to match the romantic, and Fareeha to sweep her off her feet. She wants to be pushed against the wall, to be touched, to be sated.

Angela finds it hard to get her mind off that thought process. It feels like there's buzzing under her skin. Anxiety? Anticipation? It's difficult to define. It's certainly different from arousal-- though that's present too-- and seems to be amping up her emotions.

That's how it's been for her. Her emotions have been heightened since she got sick. Could it have triggered something neurological? Some viruses can ravage a person's functions and cause lasting damage.

If it reaches a worrying level, she'll look into it.

It's just an ambiguous feeling of… something , at the moment. Something impending, but what?

It must be the anticipation for her date, she decides. What else could it be?

The thought has barely passed through her mind when a shiver runs down her spine.

Her mouth waters as she catches an irresistible scent that has wafted into her room. She finds herself following it back to the door. Hovering in the now open doorway, she sucks in deep breath. The source is distant, having walked past at some point earlier. There’s other scents too, but this one is better. She bites her lip. She could follow the scent. This scent, it's familiar. She knows the source. It wouldn't be hard to track, to hunt, to--

Copper floods her taste buds. She’s broken the skin on her lip.

What was she thinking? Did she really feel the urge to hunt? And that scent, why does she know it's Fareeha?

Angela stumbles back into her room. Her clothes suddenly feel too tight. Her shoes are almost painfully so. She kicks them off. Her skin prickles. She finds herself clawing at her shirt, desperate to pull it off.

What's happening to her?

A bone deep ache starts in her legs. And then it shows in her arms, her back, even her face. It's not painful, but it's not pleasant. Her body feels like it's losing a fight to stay in one piece. Why does it feel like she’s growing? Like her clothes are laughably small, not tailored for a body like hers? What are those cracking noises? Her bones? Why is there a claw at the end of each finger? Is that hair growing from the back of her hand? Fur? Is she covered in it?

Angela trips as she tries to go for the mirror in the bathroom. Her pants are so tight they may as well be binding her. She has to claw them off, shredding them like wet paper.

Angela pulls herself up the edge of the sink, desperate for the mirror.

She is just in time to see the last of her human face seamlessly end up at wolf's countenance, fangs bared and ready for the hunt.

Fareeha tugs her headphones out and shoves them in her pocket. A solid hour's run after a bit of weight training can be enough for today. She’s tired enough that she would consider taking a nap if she didn't have dinner with Angela soon. No, she needs to shower.

She takes out her phone as she exits the gym. It's surprising to see a whole mass of texts, mostly from Lena. A dozen missed calls too.

where are you?

Come on far answe me

answer answer answer

there is a WEREWOLF

answer the phone and tell me your okay

winston cant turn on the alrm because it could make the wereolf go crazy so ANSWER MEEEE

TEETH! CLAWS! BITEY! ANSWDR YOUR LGONE

*PHONE

if you got eaten by a werewolf ill nevee forgive you

okay i would but id be so mad

FAREEHA your mom will KILL YOU and MAYBE ME if you die from not knowing there's a werewolf around

PHONE GOES RING AND THEN YOU HOT ACCELT CALL

Fareeha frowns. None of the texts make any sense.

Before she can start typing up a response, an incoming call pops up again. It's Lena.

"What do you mean werewolf?" she answers by way of a greeting.

"You answered! There's a werewolf loose on base! Can't figure where it's come from, but it's here!"

"Where is it? Has it hurt anyone?"

"No clue where it is right now. Was in the North wing though. No news on anyone hurt yet, but you n' Ang didn't respond. Please tell me she's with you?"

Fareeha’s stomach drops. "No. She's not answering her phone?"

"I sent her like, a hundred messages and tried t' call, same as with you. But she ain't answerin' and Winston says t' stay pu--"

"I'm going to find her." She's already moving. The infirmary and her room are the two most likely places. The infirmary is closer.

"Far, you-- you need t' get somewhere safe! Ang will be fine, we got Winston and a couple omnics who can help! They can't get lycanthropy!"

"I'm not abandoning Angela."

She ends the call and shoves her phone in her pocket.

A werewolf in the north wing of the building… Here's hoping it stays up there.

Please tell me you're okay, she texts Angela.

No response.

The infirmary is in the east wing. She isn't too far off now. Just find Angela and hunker down until Winston handles it.

The infirmary is empty.

Every exam table is clean and empty. The tables are neat and organized, save for Angela’s desk. It's always a bit chaotic with her books and papers strewn about. But still, there's nothing suspicious. No claw marks, no blood, no fur. Just an empty medical room.

Okay, Angie's room. That's back towards the rest of the dorms.

Despite herself, she can't help but imagine the worst scenario. Angela’s death is terrifying to picture. It's worse that there's a chance of it being at the hands of someone who has lost themselves to their second form.

Werewolf attacks are rare; packs manage themselves well. But accidents happen and it doesn't bode well to have one just show up on their base. Could Talon have decided to plant the beast here? Did they hope it might tear apart an agent or two before being caught?

Anger at the thought bubbles up in her chest. If something happens to Angela because of them, she'll make them suffer.

Fareeha rounds a corner and starts down the hallway to the dorms.

And then she freezes.

Down the hall, someone else has just rounded the corner. The werewolf.

Their fur is light blond. They're standing bipedal, though leaned forward a bit. No blood seems to cling to them. Maybe they haven't attacked anyone.

Fareeha stays still. She needs to figure out what to do. There’s a door not too far from her. Maybe she could dodge inside and lock herself in?

She should have brought a weapon.

There's no time to head for the door. Before Fareeha can even take a step towards it, the werewolf is almost on her.

It runs at her on all fours, covering more distance in half a second than a human ever could. Their claws click on the ground with every step. Their teeth glint.

Fareeha jerks back and finds herself trying to lift off in the armor she isn't wearing. There's no jets to save her from this. She has no gun, no rockets. All she has is herself.

Part of her braces for a fight despite the knowledge she can't win this. The other part of her tries for flight-- though not the kind she prefers. Somewhere in her mind she thinks just maybe she could make it to the door nearby if she tries hard enough. But the werewolf is already on top of her.

In a desperate effort to put more space between them, Fareeha stumbles back.

She trips over her shoes and lands on her ass.

So this is it? Dying on the floor, unable to truly fight back?

Maybe she can disable it. She could dig her fingers into its eyes and by herself more time to get away. She may get bitten, but that's the price for staying alive.

Fareeha grits her teeth and braces herself.

But the pain never comes. Instead, when she lifts her head, the werewolf is hovering over her. They lean in close. Their head tilts like a confused puppy. There’s no growling. Not a bit of aggression shows on them.

They sink down to her level and start sniffing her face.

Fareeha remains still. She isn't sure what's happening, but no need to anger the beast.

The werewolf sniffs a bit more, huffs, and then nuzzles against her.

What?

The affection is followed by a lick to her cheek.

Ugh. Werewolf slobber.

What's happening right now? Are they getting a taste of her? What does licking mean in werewolf communication? Is it good? Bad? Mixed? How could she be expected to know this?

When she doesn't respond to it more than to wipe off her cheek, the werewolf gets in closer. Their hands are like hands and paws combined. They tug at her. Fareeha blinks but tries to follow what they seem to want. She stands up.

Now on her feet, Fareeha isn't sure what to do. Does this werewolf have control? Is she okay for the moment?

She isn't sure how to respond to what's happening.

The werewolf lets out a soft whine.

And they hug her.

Fareeha remains tense.

Massive lupine arms wrap around her and crush her to their chest. She feels like she's short circuiting. Why is this happening? Is this someone she knows?

In the middle of this hug, the werewolf does something Fareeha expects even less. They gently trace her spine. Down once, up once.

A blond werewolf that hugs her and does something very specific during the hug…

It hits her.

Is this… Is this-- "Angela?!"

The werewolf releases her from the hug and gives a nod. Her tail wags like mad.

It's hard to find words. The fur is the same color as Angela’s hair, sure, but how could she not have known this before now? Maybe it's a fluke and this isn't her. It's possible, right?

"I just… let me be sure. I need to double check." She racks her brain for something that would tell her this is her Angela. "Uh… How do you feel about Moira?"

The relaxed look on the werewolf's face vanishes. A deep, throaty growl rolls from her chest. With bared teeth, she makes it known exactly how she feels about Moira.

Fareeha is unsettled but resists the desire to take a step back. "Right. You're definitely my Angela. I'm sorry I brought her up."

Just as quickly, the growl stops and Angela is relaxed again. She pushes in closer to Fareeha and nuzzles her.

Fareeha finds herself reaching up and cupping that wolfish face. "We should get you out of the open, habibti."

Angela puts her ears back. Still, she nods.

"My room isn't far. Come on."

Fareeha tugs at Angela’s arm. There’s no resistance.

Angela is a werewolf. Angela is a werewolf . Is this… a recent occurrence? Has she always been one?

What in everloving fuck is going on?

As soon as they're in her room, Fareeha locks the door.

"Okay! Okay. Angie-"

Angela is suddenly very close to her. It's strange for her to be the taller one.

"How-- Have you always been a werewolf?"

She shakes her head.

At least that's answered. Sort of.

"Ah, shit. I'd better tell Lena we're okay. I won't mention that you're, ah… furry."

Angela is fine. Misplaced her phone. We'll hunker down until the all clear is given.

Lena texts back in under ten seconds.

THANK GOODNESS!!!!

With that taken care of, she sends another message. This one is to a contact that only has a ghost emoji for a name.

Cameras wiped from noon to now, you'll know why and what. Counts as that favor you owe me.

The response doesn't take long.

Done ;P Have fun with la loba

Fareeha sighs. She’s confident the other end won't give up this secret. Even a shadow has standards.

Sitting on the end of the bed, Fareeha pats it. "Settle in. Who knows how long before you change back."

Angela happily climbs on the bed. In this form, she takes up far more of it than usual. And rather than settle herself on the open section, she gets as close to Fareeha as she can. Though it looks uncomfortable, she manages to rest her chin on Fareeha’s shoulder while mostly laying down.

Fareeha starts when a noise similar to a growl sounds from the werewolf, until she realizes it's no growl. It's a low, contented rumble. If she's reading things right, it just means Angela is happy.

But sitting like this is uncomfortable.

"Here, Angie, let's move. I don't mind you cuddling, you know I love you close, but there's better ways."

Fareeha moves to sit by the head of the bed with her back against the headboard. She pats the space beside her.

Angela's tail wags as she moves to be closer. Her wolf form is massive compared to the human one Fareeha is used to. Angela takes up much of the bed as she nuzzles her and settles against her. In her desire to get close, she ends up pulling Fareeha down to lay flat rather than sit up. It lets Angela have one of her massive arms over Fareeha, bent at the elbow so her clawed hand rests at the soldier's opposite shoulder. Her muzzle rests on the front of the shoulder closest to her.

Fareeha doesn't complain at being tugged down beside her. She's doing her best to go with the flow. Finding out her almost-girlfriend is a werewolf is only sort of hitting her. She isn't really sure how to react yet. Still, this hasn't changed how she feels about Angela. Fur or no fur, she's head over heels for the woman.

She has to shift just a bit to be comfortable as Angela’s pillow. The woman is larger than either is used to, but that won't stop them now.

Fareeha reaches up with her free arm and cups Angela’s cheek. This sensation too is completely different.

"How embarrassing would it be for me if you weren't Angela?" she jokes.

Angela snorts before licking Fareeha's cheek again.

"I'll take that as an affirmative on you being Angela. And hope that's not you checking to see if you want to eat me."

No real answer to that. Angela just pushes her head forward a bit so her muzzle is under Fareeha’s chin.

"You should have let me shower before you trapped me here. I must smell horrible after my workout. Especially to a sensitive nose."

Angela settles heavier onto her.

Fareeha manages a chuckle.

Maybe she does have time for a nap.

Angela wakes up the next morning with far too many blankets on her. She kicks them off and, in the process, realizes the bed has someone else in it. Her eyes don't even open. She can smell Fareeha all around her. The woman's scent is in the pillows, the blankets, the sheets.

Fareeha seems to also have an arm over Angela’s waist. It feels wonderful to be so close to her when they've held back for far too long.

It's then that Angela realizes that she's as naked as the day she was born.

The skin to skin contact-- Fareeha’s arm around her, the fact a slight shift could encourage her hand up to visit Angela’s breasts-- starts her mouth nearly watering at the thought of indulging.

Still, how did she get here?

Blurry, splotchy memories hit her with little prodding. Her own face turned to that of a wolf. Fur and fangs and claws. She can remember catching scents… A scream? But no blood. She can't remember hurting anyone. And Fareeha’s scent in particular. She must have found her at some point, as she can sort of remember curling up in wolf form where she is now.

So. Angela is a werewolf now.

That sure is something.

Ugh. Life keeps handing her lemons. Who knows what she'll need to make of this.

Angela starts making a mental list of what she'll need to do about this. There's no cure, so it's best she just accepts it now. Finding a local pack to guide her with her new changes would be beneficial, certainly. Her knowledge on lycans and werewolves is minimal. Perhaps she can find some good resources to help her.

Fareeha shifts, her arm tightening around Angela.

That's another thing to wonder on. Is Fareeha truly so wonderful that she took this new change in stride? She must be. How else had Angela ended up here?

There's a change in the pace of Fareeha’s breathing. Each comes a bit faster and a bit more varied. She must be waking up. Her hand twitches. Her arm tightens a bit around Angela. She takes a deep breath.

Angela rolls over to face her.

With bleary eyes, Fareeha meets her gaze. There’s a moment of warmth between them before Fareeha seems to realize Angela is naked. She slams her eyes shut.

"Ah, there are clothes in my dresser if you'd like any." Her voice is thick from sleep.

"Good morning to you too," Angela answers with a giggle. "If you're worried, I certainly don't mind you seeing me naked. Though if it makes you uncomfortable, I'll of course get dressed."

Fareeha peeks out at her. "You're okay with it?"

"Schatzi, if you haven't noticed, you seeing me naked was high on the list of my recent goals. This isn't exactly how I wanted it to happen, I'll admit. But here we are."

She opens her eyes fully. "Angela, uh-- Well, this isn't how I'd intended to get you naked in my bed either." Her eyes take on a soft but protective look. Angela knows it well. "Are you feeling alright? Any side effects from last night?"

Angela takes stock of herself. For the first time in a long time, there's not a single ache or pain in her body. She's a bit stiff perhaps, but no more than that. Every sense she has feels sharp and defined.

Beyond the physical, she seems to sense more of herself. Her wolf sits inside her adding its own instincts to her repertoire. It doesn't control her, it seems. It simply… is. And within her, it is familiar, if different from what she's used to. There's the inkling that she's looking into a mirror to see this wolf. The reflections are somewhat distorted compared to what she had before this wolf. Hunger is stronger, anger quicker, and her body hardier.

There will be a lot of changes coming. She'll have to learn a new way to live, certainly.

"I am okay, I think. At least for now." She purses her lips. "Perhaps you could fill in some blanks for me? I don't remember much."

Fareeha’s arm is still over her; her thumb starts moving gently up and down.

"No one got hurt, if you're worried. I stopped my workout to Lena panicking. You had shifted by then-- No one knows it was you, by the way. I think Winston and any omnics on base planned to find you? Werewolf you, not-- as in they were going to find the werewolf. But Lena had told me you hadn't answered your phone, so I went to find you-- You you. But, uh. You found me. I figured out it was you because instead of maiming me, you hugged me. There were some other clues too. You're a very blond werewolf. But once I figured out it was you, I brought you to my room and we hunkered down. The most you really did once you got here was cuddle."

Angela wonders if she should be embarrassed about her moonstruck desire to cuddle Fareeha, but she decides it's just fine. Furry or not, she likes some physical attention from her favorite soldier.

"Well… It could have been much worse. I'm glad I ended up here with you." A memory returns to her through the haze. "I think I could smell you," she admits. "When I started to change, I remember catching a scent and wanting desperately to follow it."

Fareeha sighs. "I really need a shower."

Angela lets out a laugh. "Maybe so. But I think you smell good."

With some of the night before explained to her, Angela feels a bit more secure. She can face this all head on. The most important person already knows, so all that's left is figuring the rest out.

She stretches before settling back in her spot.

"I suppose this new form of mine would be why I've had so much stamina as of late. Not to mention more strength than usual. I wonder what other changes I might find."

Fareeha places a hand on her cheek and rubs her thumb over her lips. After just a moment, she lifts the corner of Angela’s lips to expose her teeth somewhat.

"I, uh… Well, your canines are longer. You have fangs. So there's another."

Angela runs her tongue over her teeth. Yes, her canines are noticeably different. They sit well with her other teeth still, thankfully.

"Hm. There will likely be more. I look forward to finding out in the coming months." She has to remain optimistic with this.

"I mean, fangs are hot," Fareeha comments. "It could be worse."

It's strange, but Angela can feel the wolf within her grow just as pleased with the comment as she does. It helps solidify that she and it are the same.

"It could. Werewolf rather than were… hm. Werepig perhaps? Wererabbit? I don't mind the wolf option."

Fareeha looks incredulous. "How is it that you're taking this so well?"

Angela sighs. "Fareeha, my darling, I have learned that I will never expect the next thing life throws at me. A pilot disappearing into time, a gorilla that speaks. Becoming a werewolf seems rather banal with all that, don't you think?"

"True… How do you think it happened? Isn't it usually a bite?"

A shrug. "Well… My knowledge is that it must be saliva to blood or blood to blood contact. I would guess that the needle stick I had a short while ago would be the culprit."

Fareeha bristles. "I still can't believe a needle was left out like that."

Bringing her fingers through the woman's hair, Angela shrugs. "Nothing to change it now. They will have already dealt with it as they saw fit after your mother’s report. And while there may be something more that could be done if I were to add the results of the needle stick to the report, I do not believe I'm willing to… to out myself as a werewolf as of yet."

A conflicted expression finds its way to Fareeha’s face, but it's quickly replaced with a serious one.

"My lips are sealed. And if anyone gives you trouble, they'll have me to answer to."

A fresh wave of affection fills Angela’s chest. How could she have gotten so lucky as to have Fareeha in her life?

"Speaking of your lips…"

Angela leans in and kisses her. It's just a peck on the lips, then two, then three. Fareeha is just as eager on her side. It seems both of them want nothing more than to indulge a bit with each other.

But, as she kisses Fareeha again, something like a growl pushes its way from her. It's involuntary and far from a negative noise, but she feels her cheeks warm as she pulls away.

"Ah, I-- sorry. That was… embarrassing."

To her relief, Fareeha lets out a good natured chuckle. "I don't mind. We've got a lot to learn about this whole thing. And maybe I'm a little proud to excite you that much."

"Mm, you do excite me. But perhaps it's for the best that we hold off for now. I need a shower and a meal."

"I mean, I could be your meal."

"That potential is far too literal with my new state of being. We should be glad I didn't make a meal of you last night." She gives her a peck on the cheek. "Cunnilingus jokes aside, I think I'll take you up on your offer of lending me some clothes."

"Sure." She motions to the dresser. "Whatever you need."

Angela has to force herself out of bed. If she weren't so hungry, she'd stay firmly in bed with her Fareeha.

Standing, Angela stretches her arms up and pulls the stiffness from her back. Her body feels fresh and new. It's as though she's been reformed with everything right where it should be again. Her past injuries no longer seem to ghost her limbs. There are certainly some hidden blessings to this whole silver allergy thing.

Angela digs into Fareeha’s dresser and finds a suitable pair of shorts and a sweatshirt to cover herself. The sweatshirt has Fareeha’s basketball team logo on the front.

Before she pulls the top on, she turns to Fareeha.

"So… Are we able to finally confirm, well, us?"

Fareeha snaps back to the present. She'd obviously been enjoying the view before her.

"Huh? Oh! Yes! I think my mother might kill me if she had to see us dancing around it more." She waves the thought away. "Hell, I'd deserve it."

Angela pulls the shirt on. "We move at our own pace. Even if that pace has been torturous for me these past few weeks." She leans down and gives her another kiss.

"You certainly turned up the heat on flirting. I could barely focus at times, you were so distracting."

A shrug. "It has been difficult to put my own feelings aside as of late. I would usually put my focus on my work. With the information I have now, my hypothesis is my new… tenant had some hand in it. How could I hold back any attraction I have for you when nearly all my senses seemed to be filled by you simply entering the same room as me?" She sits on the edge of the bed. "It gave me the push I needed."

"And I'll forever be thankful."

Fareeha sits up and does a stretch of her own. "Breakfast does sound like a good idea. But I'm going to shower first."

Angela holds back a comment about joining her in the shower. They can save that sort of thing for later.

"I think I'm going to pop back into my room and ensure I didn't do too much damage. I believe that's where my change took place. Breakfast together after?"

"Sure."

There's a knock on the door before more can be said.

Fareeha stands to answer it. Angela follows behind.

Lena is just outside.

"Fareeha! You didn't answer my texts-- Oh! Ang! Was looking for you too!"

Angela gives Lena a smile. "I'm sorry for worrying you last night, Lena."

"S'fine! Far let me know you two were all good." She bounces on her heels. "I just wanted t' make sure everyone was still good. Never did find the werewolf."

"We're just fine," Fareeha assures though her tone is rather brusque.

Angela slips past Fareeha. "If you two will excuse me, I've got to get a few things sorted." She glances back at her girlfriend. "Breakfast in, say, half an hour?"

Fareeha perks up and nods. "I'll be there."

"Wunderbar."

With that, she gives the woman a quick peck on the lips and starts down the hall.

"W, Wh-- Since when!" she hears Lena exclaim. "Last night? You two are finally a thing?!"

"We are." Fareeha sounds proud to say it.

Lena swears. "Damn. I lost the bet.”

"What bet? What are you talking about?"

Her voice turns sheepish. "The one about when you two would get together… Bunch of us placed bets about it.”

"You all bet on us?!”

Angela chuckles to herself. She’ll find out who won later.