Right Where I Want You

    Sometimes there isn't much you can do other than waiting for the other shoe to drop. The first one had come down when Kyubey made it obvious he was responsible for the lack of Witches and that he had made allies with the intent of interfering in Puella matters more directly. Without easily replenished of magic proactively hunting down and learning about these new allies would be wasteful and even potentially dangerous.

    Which means the best course of action for a Puella right now is to stay vigilant and wait to see what happens and keep yourself from needing to use magic. Focusing on the nonmagical aspects of life is a good way to do this, which is why Madoka now finds herself downstairs in Homura's house and walking out into the dance floor. She does, after all, have a pretty amazing nonmagical life these days and spending time with her girlfriend is a perfect way to pass the time. It's even prudent; Homura is after all a veteran Puella Magi and keeping near one another in case Kyubey does make his move is cheap insurance.

    Besides, it's not like they need much of an excuse to have a dancing date with one another.

    Madoka has even raided Homura's closet(s) to find something nice to wear, going with a frilly yellow and white dress with a ruffled blouse, a large pink bow at her back, a smaller one at the neckline just below some ruffles, and tiny pink ones on the short cuffs. The skirt is white, thigh length and airy. It's not as fancy as some of the other things she's worn but it's pretty and, most importantly, easy to move in.

    Having managed to change first she goes over and turns on the sound system and before setting it to play classical music to dance to. It's slow paced right now because she's of a mind to snuggle up on the dance floor, at least to begin with.

    Homura isn't even sure what to do with the developing situation. Between Kyouko's sister suddenly coming back to life, Madoka finding out the hard way that trying to save Familiars-turned-Witches is bad, and the famine in general, Homura has been given a lot of stuff to think about that she can't actually do anything with. Well, she can comfort Madoka at least, and try to make sure the two of them don't fall into despair. May as well enjoy life while they can, right?

    She hates not being in control of her fate, but what can she do? She's survived this long, usually because a certain someone wishes her back when something happens to her. It isn't the first time that Homura has felt helpless, and if she's very very lucky it won't be the last. How long can Kyubey keep this up, anyways?

    Homura takes a little bit longer to get dressed, but not by much. She comes downstairs wearing a frilly black dress, with white lace around the collar and translucent frills covering the shoulder, as well as a big black bow in the back. She smiles as she hears the classical music being played, and enters the room looking for her very best dance partner.

    Approaching Madoka, Homura extends her open hand forward. "May I have this dance?" There's a slight lilt to her voice, and she's watching Madoka with adoring eyes. As she walks towards Madoka, she steps in time with the music, hips swaying with each motion. When she gets close, she takes Madoka by the hand, lifting it and bowing politely.

    For now dancing is an excellent way to keep Madoka from falling into despair. It's hard to despair if she's having fun with her girlfriend. The lack of control doesn't seem so stark to her either, since she hasn't been in control of her own destiny for very long in the first place. Still, if it does bother Homura it means she'll have to make an effort to cheer the dark haired girl up as well, and luckily she has a pretty good track record of being able to do just that.

    Madoka is still checking the music settings to make sure everything will keep going until they tell it to stop when Homura enters, turning around just in time to see her approaching. Her soft pink eyes travel over Homura from top to bottom and then back up again, a faint flush showing on her cheeks before stepping closer and taking Homura's hand. "I'd be happy to dance with such a beautiful lady as you," she replies with a smile, eyes meeting Homura's. The bow is returned with a curtsy, one side of Madoka's dress' skirt lifted with her free hand, and she slips closer to the slightly taller girl, reaching a hand up and gently resting it on her shoulder, leaving her waist an open and inviting resting place for Homura's.

    Her steps then begin to match time with Homura's and the music, feet ready to go wherever on the wide dance floor that her beloved cares to take her, the pink haired girl likewise prepared to maintain distance or press up close to Homura at her guidance.

    The slower music means a slower pace, and as Homura takes Madoka's hand in hers she pulls the pink haired girl in close. "How flattering~," says Homura, in response to the compliment, "to have such a lovely young woman find me beautiful."

    Homura moves her other hand to rest on Madoka's hips, and Homura's own rhythmic swaying seamlessly becomes their rhythmic swaying as they glide across the floor. Homura gazes at Madoka with soft, half-open eyes. She will never get over how warm and cozy it feels to be this close to Madoka, and she never wants to.

    "We've really come a long way together, haven't we?" she says. "It's funny... at first I was happy just to be your friend, and you're an amazing friend, but when I started to realize how I felt..." Homura blushes, and glances away. "Well... I'm glad we took that chance, because I think it paid off."

    "I don't know if words can express how much it means to me that you're here all the time." Homura now looks deeply into Madoka's eyes, smiling at her beloved, as the two of them move in time to the music. "Maybe I say that a lot... but... it's always wonderful to me, being this close."

    A soft giggle sounds from Madoka at Homura's words, the pink-haired girl pressing warmly to her dance partner as she's brought close, "Beautiful and smart," she adds to the compliment happily, looking up into Homura's eyes as they move so easily together. She needs only the slightest of guidance now for simpler dance steps, following the motions of her girlfriends body with natural ease. Her smile widens a little as she matches the gaze, her own eyes open as they meet Homura's. Her hand squeezes the other girl's gently as they move to the music, a quiet statement of her own enjoyment, feeling warm and happy not only to be so close with Homura, but with how happy she look right now.

    A soft hum of consideration is made in response to the rhetorical question. "Once I was comfortable around you," she wasn't comfortable around anyone when she first moved back, "I realized how much I enjoyed being around you, and talking with you. I never really considered that we might have such good romantic chemistry until that first night," her own cheeks color at that memory. "We really do." Her own eyes half lid, and for a moment she presses up closer against Homura, her arm slipping up around the beautiful Puella's neck for an intimate quazi-hug. "Have I ever thanked you for taking that risk?" Soft pink eyes look deep into pools of purple from close up and Madoka says, "Thank you," in a soft, sweet voice.

    Homura can feel her hips swaying as they move in time to the music, Madoka's eyes completely locked with her own as they dance across the room in rhythmic steps. "You have more than just words to express it with," she says with a smile. Her head then gives a slow shake, eyes staying on her beloveds, "I don't mind if you say it. I love being with you, and close to you. I love that you want to be around me so much." She resists the urge to look away shyly, and instead her head tilts down a tiny bit, "Mostly I'm glad to see you happy. Making you happy has been the most important thing to me." She squirms gently while close to Homura, "I love you very much, but I always cared about you, even before I fell in love."

    Beautiful and Smart? Homura beams. "Smart? Maybe. I certainly have good taste in partners." Is that a compliment to herself or to Madoka? She leans forward to kiss Madoka softly on the lips, pulling back only a centimeter to whisper, "Or maybe I'm just lucky, getting to be with you."

    Homura's actually pretty used to making Madoka feel at least a bit uncomfortable, especially when they first meet. Whether that gets better or worse depends on circumstances, but this closeness, here, is a bit more rare. Romance, before this timeline, may as well have not even existed.

    She giggles at the mention of their romantic chemistry, and what happened way back when. "I wasn't sure if we had it either, but we've lasted for months so far. I don't know if you ever did thank me before, but you're more than welcome. Thank you for taking it with me. I know it was a scary choice, but it did turn out to be a good one."

    "And I am happy. I am so, so happy right now," says Homura, and she certainly looks the part. There is a bit of playful mischief in her eyes, and her smile is small and a bit reserved, as it always is, but it's there. "Never before have I felt so loved, and so wanted, and so needed. I always felt like I was worthless before you came along, but around you I feel like I really mean something. You're always lifting me up and telling me nice things, and you always care about me when I get hurt." She chuckles, "It's funny... I think when we're having hard times, we tend to worry about each other more than we do about ourselves."

    Homura leans softly against Madoka as she's held close. Not too hard, but just enough that Madoka can feel her there. Even this close, Homura seems to be able to keep in time with the slow music just fine. "I love you so much, too. You've always been good to me."

    "Anyone who can build a successful company at our age must be very smart," Madoka protests earnestly. The two way compliment gets a brighter smile out of her, and her lips are still curled upwards when she returns the kiss. With a more demure smile she replies, "You get to be with me because you're wonderful." After a short pause she adds, "And a total sweetheart, saying such nice things to me." Her eyes shine with happiness, enjoying each nice thing said about her.

    Madoka thinks about how things might have gone if she hadn't taken this chance. While she's sure they'd still be very close friends it almost hurts to think about missing out on something so magnificent. "You're welcome. I would have been a fool if I didn't take a chance on you."

    She giggles a little, only to turn slightly more serious for a moment, "You've given me everything I think I could ever want in a partner. Even though I wasn't looking at you 'that' way at first I've thought you were beautiful, and you love hugging, snuggling, and cuddling with me. You're easy to talk to and listen to what I have to say, and you also like dancing as much as I do." A sweet smile shows on her face, "But most of all, you care about me. You care so much... and to me I think that's the most important of all. I think I need that, to be important and cared about. With you that's never even been a question, and I know it never will be."

    As Madoka detects the mischief in Homura's eyes she giggles a little, momentarily dancing out of step with her in order to swing around her, drawing them both into a playful spin. "You mean the world to me," Madoka says openly, speaking in an easy, happy tone. "I feel sorry for you that you felt worthless, I know what it's like to feel that way too. I don't think you ever were." With a small nod of her head she agrees, "I think you're right. I think the idea of you getting hurt might be harder for me than getting hurt myself." It's said with a mildly embarrassed expression because she knows just how true that is for Homura as well.

    When Homura leans against her Madoka gives her a warm but gentle squeeze. She looks like she's about to say something, only to suddenly blush enough to color her whole face pink, giggling playfully. "Maybe the slow music was a bad idea. I'm so bad! Sometimes it's really hard to want to do anything other than hug you and kiss you when we're so close. But we came down here to have fun!" Pause, "A-a different kind of fun!" Playful giggles change into embarrassed ones.

    A business at Homura's age... yeah. It is pretty crazy, the more Homura thinks about it, though sometimes she wonders why she didn't do it before. Still, she can't help but feel a little meek, having her angel speak to her that way.

    "Me? You're the wonderful one. How could I say 'no' to you? When I first saw you, I felt something I never had before. You've always meant so much to me, and I don't mind being your sweetheart."

    Where would Homura and Madoka be if she hadn't confessed her feelings? Probably still friends, maybe even close ones, though there'd always be a secret that she had kept from Madoka. Or maybe not. The surge of emotion that Madoka felt from her when they were mentally linked would have given her away, and Homura would've felt like a coward for not having said anything until then.

    Homura smiles softly at Madoka. She's given her everything she wants in a partner? That's exactly the kind of thing she likes to hear, since she does want Madoka to be happy. In addition to that, Homura wants to be the one who makes her happy.

    "I do love cuddling you, and hugging you, and kissing you, and all of those things. I especially love doing things with you, since you're my precious angel. Of course I would listen to you. You say so many sweet things to me, how could I not? Even when things are more serious, I like knowing what's important to you, because if it's important to you then it's also important to me."

    This close, she whispers, "No matter happens, I'll always love you. That is a fact, and one I know very well."

    Homura shrugs as her self-perceived worthlessness is apologized for, and then nods when Madoka says she felt similarly. "We both did, but it's not true, is it? You can save the world, and I can save you. As long as we have that, we're anything but worthless. Even if we didn't, you would still be very dear to me, and there are a lot of people who love you, and I'd make sure you knew that as fact."

    Homura giggles as the consequences of picking slow music is brought up. "No matter what it seems like we're destined to end up cuddling one another. Not that I mind, love, but it happens." She tilts her head. "We could dance to faster music, if you'd prefer. You know me, though. Always tempted to melt into a cuddle puddle with you."

    She's still moving her feet to the music, but her eyes are very much locked on Madoka right now.

    "Even if I am wonderful, that doesn't mean you aren't also," Madoka says in a coy voice, because the other words spoken are so sweet. "I'm glad, because you're a very good sweetheart to have!"

    Lots of things make Madoka happy, but these days it's hard for any of them to compete with how happy Homura makes her. Having a loving girlfriend colors everything else around her to be better, and she's already optimistic by nature.

    Madoka giggles happily as Homura talks about enjoying doing things with her, and especially because it's her it's with. The pink-haired girl smiles brightly, "Kissing you is incredible. Even after all the kisses we've shared it feels amazing. I don't know if it's because you have the best lips in the world or because we're so good together. And snuggling with you... you're always so eager to be close with me. I really like that." She giggles more, feeling somewhat silly before saying, "It's almost like we're magnets! The closer I am to you the closer I want to get. And when we touch I want to cuddle with you and cling to you."

    Her head gives a small nod, and for a brief moment she leans her forehead against Homura's, looking into her eyes. "I know you will." Maybe she doesn't need to say it, but she wants to. "I'll always love you, too."

    It really is true. They've both felt very bad about themselves at times, not quite able to take a step back and see their good sides as well. "I can't say I'd be as happy as I am now if I couldn't help and make a difference. I'm grateful that I can help you and fight by your side. I think I'm finally able to see things better from your perspective, though. Caring so much about one person..." Being able to save people, but not the one she cared about most- well, Madoka proved she was rather incapable of coping with that when she made her wish, didn't she?

    Somehow, someway, Madoka manages to put in a completely straight face and say in a tone she usually reserves for very serious moments, "Our destiny is a heavy destiny to bear, but I'm sure we'll find a way to manage it, somehow." The facade cracks quickly and before long she's devolved into giggles, only to laugh harder, leaning heavily on Homura because of it, at the silly term she uses. "C-cuddle puddle!?" Her head shakes and she laughs more, "I'm always happy to melt into a puddle with you, Homura-chan, but if we snuggled now I think you'd find me very excited and wiggly!"

    It doesn't occur to her that this could potentially be considered a good thing; who knows?

    She's still dancing slowly to the music along with Homura, moving her feet some but mostly swaying from side to side, gazing into the eyes of her beloved.

    Homura feels like she's glowing, like warmth is bubbling inside her and wanting to pour out. Madoka seriously considers her wonderful? Really? Homura stares at her for a moment, blinks, and then smiles complacently at Madoka. "No matter long we're together, you always manage to find a new way to make me feel special. Thank you." She gives Madoka a kiss. "I'm your sweetheart. Now and forever."

    There isn't a lot that can compete with Madoka on the 'making Homura happy' front, either. Sure, she has Amy... the cat that she only knows because Madoka saved her. Even among the other things that Homura enjoys in life, many of them can be attributed to something that Madoka did.

    Homura giggles at the comparison to magnets. "If that's the case, that explains why I'm so eager to cling to you. The closer we get, the closer we want to get. It does feel amazing." Kissing and cuddling Madoka, she means. "I could do it forever, just holding you in my arms and kissing you gently. If my lips are good then yours are better, and I can't help but want you close. Sleeping next to you is amazing, and waking up next to you even more so. We share so much warmth and love, so many wonderful things that I'd never be able to experience without you."

    Madoka leans her forehead against Homura, and Homura's smile shows teeth. "I know... and that just makes it that much more wonderful."

    She blinks, and nods as Madoka says she sees things better from her perspective. "Yeah well... I think I see your side better, too. Wanting to help everyone, to care about everyone. It hasn't always been easy for me to be nice, but... I think you helped me in that regard, too. I mean... maybe none of them are as important to me as you are, but they're still people. They deserve of a certain level of respect and decency, and they certainly don't deserve to have some random monster come along and ruin their lives."

    Madoka gets serious, and Homura is confused. Then she realizes it's a joke and giggles. "Oh how will we ever..." kiss "... learn to live..." kiss kiss "... with such a heavy burden?"

    Homura giggles. "Wiggly cuddles are nice, too. Whenever we hug and you get all squirmy, I like it because I get feel your movement against my arms. It's just so... you. You are so endearing to me in so many ways. Besides that, just because we're being romantic, there's no law saying we can't be silly at the same time."

    Madoka is smiling at Homura as she's stared at, though tilts her head a little when the other girl blinks. The words Homura say next get a small giggle from her, and she happily returns the kiss, lips pressing softly against Homura's. "My very own wonderful sweetheart Homura-chan? Just what I've always wanted!" She smiles very brightly, giggling as she dances slowly with her girlfriend and partner.

    "I'd be happy with that too. Snuggled up with you and being kissed by you. But only if I could kiss you back!" Madoka certainly likes to show affection as well as receive it. Homura brings up spending entire nights next to each other and Madoka lets out a happy sigh, "It really is wonderful, isn't it? Whether I'm waking up in your arms or getting to kiss you on the cheek while you're still sleeping. And being under the covers with you is so cozy and warm." She closes her eyes for a moment, making a happy sound at the mention of sharing warmth and live, "You always let me show you as much affection as I want. That makes me so happy, being able to always display my love for you, my darling and my sweetheart."

    Homura explains that she's seeing things better from Madoka's perspective as well, and the pink-haired girl gives a small nod and attempts to summarize the general sentiment. "We make each other better. You've worked so hard to be more forgiving, and look at things from other people's perspectives." Of course she's noticed; she'd would have had to be paying no attention at all not to. "I'm trying to get better too, to be a better fighter and to learn what it means to live as a Puella. I still don't think it's right for everyone to fight," and so far as she knows Homura agrees, "but I can't really hold it against people when everything is set up to try to force them into it." That's not the most fun topic of conversation, though.

    When Homura intersperses words with kisses Madoka returns the first after their lips touch, only to meet halfway for the rest. "Mm, I don't know," she replies in a mock worried voice, "I think..." kiss "the only way..." kiss "is a lot of practice!" Kissy kissy kissy kissy.

    Homura proclaims her enjoyment of wiggly cuddles and Madoka decides to take that as a hint whether or not it was intended as one. She pulls her hand from Homura's slow enough to not be startling and then readjusts her arms, wrapping them around Homura and pressing up against her close. Of course these are wiggly cuddles, so she presses on and rubs against Homura, twisting from side to side and giggling. Homura may notice these twists are double time to the music. "I can't help it, I want to hold you and be held by you too much!" She looks up at Homura, "It's not fair, you're such a tease, Homura-chan!" A playful, childish pout, "Being so beautiful and cuddly!" She leans in, not kissing Homura this time but instead pressing her cheek up against her girlfriends and nuzzling against her, "Mmm, so soft and warm. See? I can't help myself."

    Homura giggles as Madoka says she's just what she always wanted. "Yup! All yours, because you're my sweet and cuddly angel who loves me so much."

    Homura's not blushing as much as she has in the past, but she still looks very happy. "Well of course you can kiss me back. I'm yours, remember? You can show me all the love and affection you want, and I'll cherish every moment. Your love means so much to me, and every moment we spend together is the happiest moment in my life."

    So Madoka has noticed Homura trying to be nicer. That's... good. It means that Homura is actually making a difference in her behavior and isn't just tricking herself somehow. "I think for a while I just gave up on other people. Maybe I shouldn't have, or maybe it's just because I'm in a different timeline now and things are better, but I do think that your way of seeing things is right."

    Homura nods with affirmation as Madoka says she's becoming a better fighter. "You are. I'm really proud of how far you've come. You're a wonderful partner to go into battle with, and I do feel better knowing that you can defend yourself. It isn't good to fight if you don't have a reason, but it's also good that you can if you have to, and not every fight has to end in someone getting hurt." Though, frankly, many of Homura's fights do.

    Homura giggles when Madoka mentions lots of practice, and she continues giggling all through the kissing.

    Homura certainly didn't expect her to take it as a hint, but she did expect that she'd end up cuddling Madoka sooner or later. Magnets, indeed. Homura adjusts her arms to wrap around Madoka, holding her close and still stepping to the music even as her girlfriend wiggles in her arms. "Cute! You are so cute!" She's just continuously giggling now as Madoka compliments her in the sweetest and most adorable ways, even laughing between words as as she speaks. "Me? You're the one who keeps tempting me with how cute you are! It's all I can do not to just snuggle you forever and ever and never let you go!" She nuzzles against Madoka's cheek, letting out a happy sigh. "My loveable, sweet, pretty, cute, very best girlfriend."

    A happy smile shows on Madoka's face and she sways with Homura, "Yes I am, your sweet and cuddly angel. And I love you very, very much. My darling, sweet Homura-chan is so lovable, how could I not?"

    She giggles happily then, looking coy as she tries not to control a sudden urge to show affection, only to decide that's ridiculous considering the conversation topic and leaning in to press small kisses to Homura's cheek.

    "You had so many painful experiences with the same people. I think I can understand it... sometimes you could work with someone, but the next time around something would change and they'd end up against you instead." She takes in a breath and lets it out as a little sigh, "It must have been so frustrating. I don't think it's only that this timeline is different, but having more people who don't immediately put you on guard must have been a huge relief."

    Madoka laughs in slight embarrassment as her fighting skills are complimented, "Hee... thank you, Homura-chan. I'm glad I was able to have such a good teacher! Though I'm a little worried now that we can't really afford to practice as much. You could probably practice your aim, but aiming my arrows isn't something I think I could practice without my bow." She's also not sure Homura actually -needs- to practice her aim, with how much she's actual combat experience she has.

    "That's... something I've worried about, actually," Madoka notes when Homura mentions fights ending without anyone getting hurt. "There's going to be a time where I don't have a choice but to defend myself," she's optimistic, but not completely out of touch, "and the only way I can really do that is to attack people with my arrows. I can do my best not to hurt them too badly, but I don't have many other options." She could run away, or simply concede whatever the point of contention was, but sometimes that isn't an option. "If someone was trying to fight me because of some misunderstanding, I'm not sure if there's anything I could do to keep myself safe and also keep from hurting them while I tried to talk it out with them. I'm pretty good at avoiding attacks now, but someone who's smart will notice if I'm not fighting back seriously and get more aggressive." It's not the cutest or cuddliest of topics, but if they start snuggling while talking about important things why not start talking about important things while snuggling?

    As Homura moves her arms around her Madoka lets out a happy sigh, her wiggling calming a bit as she takes the moment to relax in her girlfriends arms, swaying with the music. She giggles as well when Homura's don't let up, "I'm glad you think so. I try to be cute for you!" She twists as she says so, her skirt flaring and rustling against both of their legs. "Am I that tempting?" she asks, half innocently. "I wouldn't mind if you just scooped me up and snuggled on me, though."

    Her own long series of giggles comes as the string of compliments is spoken, and Homura can feel her cheek warm as she blushes. She pulls away just enough to move her nose past Homura's and then presses her lips firmly but gently to her girlfriends, lifting on her toes and leaning against her more heavily, arms tightening to squeeze her sweetheart to herself. She doesn't restrain herself as much as she has the last few times they've kissed, letting her head fill with the fuzziness and lightheadedness that comes with giving into romance, making a soft happy sound as she presses both tender and playful kisses to Homura's lips.

    Homura actually blushes a little bit. She was being ernest, but now her voice gets slightly more high pitched, which escalates into a squeal as she speaks, and she decides to see how far over the top she can push it. "You're my sweety cuddly snuggly lovable adorable cutesy ice cream kissable plushie huggable beautiful little angel and I love you so so so very much!"

    Are 'ice cream kissable' and 'plushie huggable' even actual adjectives? Sure they are. Homura says so.

    The kiss on the cheek doesn't hurt her mood, either.

    Homura does feel a little sad looking back, and maybe there's just a bit of regret in her voice. "It is frustrating, even now sometimes. I guess that's why I yell at the others when I get stressed, though maybe I shouldn't. At first it was weird, being mad at someone for something they hadn't done yet, and maybe in a different timeline they never would. Not being able to explain anything, and being disbelieved even when I did."

    She does nod. "It was nice, just... meeting people who I didn't know. It was a little worrying at first, but I guess it made me realize just how much the system is rigged against us as Puella Magi, because none of the other magical girls have so much trouble working together. Most of them have some team or another, even if they fight against other magical girls."

    Not being able to practice with her bow... yeah, that makes things complicated. Is there anything else she could practice in the meantime? "Yeah... actually it might be a bad idea to practice with anything other than your bow. The projectile speed of your arrows isn't the same as a gun, and might not be the same as a normal bow and arrow either. You might learn the wrong habits, and your muscle memory would be off. Maybe magic could make up for that, but I wouldn't recommend it."

    Homura certainly doesn't mind talking about serious things. The serious is important because taking care of it means more time cuddling! ... and a longer lifespan in which to cuddle. Homura herself doesn't have much to practice her aim on, and it's not like Japan has a ton of firing ranges. Maybe now that Homura has her own contracting company she can build one underground? No idea if she'd even use it or not.

    Madoka starts asking serious questions about what she should do in combat when she doesn't want to hurt anyone. Homura listens to her concerns, and takes the time to consider a response she hopes is useful.

    "Well, as a Puella Magi, your body can be a lot stronger than a human's. When I want to break up fights, I often use my timestop to get into position and then try to knock out my opponent. A good chop at the right spot can minimize injury and quickly end a fight, even against a Puella Magi. Aside from that, I was able to make a copy of your bow, though I think yours can charge a lot higher than mine. If it works both ways, maybe you'd be able to create barriers, like my shield does?"

    Homura purses her lips, and her eyes roll up and to the side as she thinks. "A lot of us veteran Puella Magi find new ways to use our own powers. For example, I had little idea of what to do with my timestop magic at first, but I started using bombs and then guns. Mami's power is really ribbons, not guns, but she creates the guns with ribbons. Maybe you'll be able to find something creative to do with arrows, too."

    Homura grins. "Yes, you are that tempting, since you asked." Madoka then kisses her, and Homura's eyes close as she savors the taste of affection. She hugs Madoka tight, then tighter, then moves her arms further down and then lifts Madoka straight up, still stepping in time as she carries her and cuddles her. Carrying her is rather effortless, since Madoka's a tiny girl and Homura's a mighty Puella Magi. "Careful what you wish for~. You might just get it, my love."

    Madoka's eyes widen a little as Homura overwhelms her with compliments in a high voice, both real and silly. "P-plushie?!" she asks, sounding surprised. She doesn't think she's -that- soft, but considering how many plush animals she owns it might not be a surprise that this is an especially powerful compliment, if silly. "I-I don't know if I am 'plushie huggable', but if I am to anyone it's you!"

    When Homura speaks with a tinge of regret Madoka reaches to squeeze her hand, "It was a very difficult situation. Almost impossible... but you managed, you made it through. I think even if this timeline hadn't happened, you'd have found a way. I have faith in you." Just because she thinks Homura's attitude and actions weren't preferential doesn't mean she holds them against her. She knows why she acted the way she did very well now, better than anyone other than Homura herself ever could, probably.

    "Fighting other Magical Girls here isn't really the same, either," Madoka notes, looking upwards. "At least, not the Magical Girls and Boys who hurt people on purpose for their own advantage. I do think it's different, not saving people because you want a Familiar to grow into a Witch. I would never do that, but it isn't right to fight someone because they don't do something you want them to... that's just resorting to violence. But if they're actually hurting people themselves?" Madoka's head gives a small shake, "That's completely different, isn't it?" Unsaid is that Puella Magi literally need Grief Seeds to live, as opposed to many people who seeming willing to hurt others simply to gain power or some other advantage.

    Madoka simply nods as Homura talks about the difficulties practicing and training her magical abilities without expending any magic. The veteran Puella does a good job of giving concrete examples and putting into words what she had a general idea of; if it's not really the same relying on what's learned that way could be dangerous if it leads to unexpected and unpredictable results.

    "Without being able to stop time I'm not sure I could do that while someone knew I was there, and if they didn't notice me running away would be a better option." Not that she completely rejects the idea; she'll keep it in mind, just in case. "I don't think I could make a copy of your shield," Madoka notes right away, "but maybe the barrier? Hmm." She listens as Homura explains about veterans using their powers in intricate, unexpected ways. "I thought getting them to bounce off of walls was pretty neat, though I guess it's not very creative." Or especially useful for the current topic of escaping attack by methods other than injuring the attacker enough they end pursuit.

    Madoka is tempting to Homura! That puts a very bright smile on her face, and happy kissing ensues. She presses against Homura as she's hugged, giggling softly as the hug becomes very tight, only to let out a quiet cry of surprise, lips still pressed to her girlfriends, as she's lifted straight off the ground! She clings to Homura with her arms, giggling and laughing and kissing, though all the laughing turns the kisses into lighter ones than the more intimate ones she was intending.

    It isn't the most ladylike, but for the moment Madoka doesn't care, wrapping her legs around Homura and holding onto her so she's easier to be held aloft. True, the mighty Puella Magi Homura Akemi doesn't strictly require this ease, but why not offer it to her when she can? "This is a bad example to say that for, Homura-chan!" she chides in a less than serious voice. "Because being picked up and cuddled is going to make me happy! And then I might wish for more things, like for you to kiss me and rest on top of me!" Wait, isn't that literally exactly how they first kiss? Why yes, yes it is. To say it's left a lasting impression on Madoka would be an understatement.

    Her eyes blink, "Did I say that out loud..?"

    Homura continues to speak in a squealy voice. "Oh but you are you're so huggable and I just want to hug you and cuddle you forever. In fact you may even be more huggable than a plushie." In a more normal voice, she adds, "Though I'd have to hug both to compare."

    Would Homura have found a way, even without this timeline? Maybe. With a smile, she says, "I hope so. I'm glad I found at least one timeline where you could be happy, my dear sweet Madoka-chan. That alone makes everything worth it."

    Homura nods. It is different, fighting other magical girls and boys. Especially if people like Riventon are counted among that number. Homura... actually hasn't fought many actual people, aside from Kyouko, Riventon, and one time Fiore and another time Ail. She can't think of any others she's fought directly, not counting youma or Witches or other monsters. Part of that is very intentional, really.

    "... it is different. The difference to me, I guess, is because in situations like that you really do have something to fight for. Other people are just going to do whatever they're going to do, and you're just responding to the situation they've created. Their reasons for fighting might not be good, but that doesn't mean yours aren't."

    Homura shrugs. Would running be a better option than knocking out your opponent? "Yeah, a lot of times it would be, but I've actually had to knock Sayaka out a few times to stop her from fighting Kyouko. Not in this timeline, obviously, but it's not always about removing yourself from the fight."

    Homura shrugs at the mention of not being able to copy the shield. It was... well, 10 years before Homura manifested that specific power, and she doesn't even know how it happened. "The shield itself is an hourglass, and part of the timestop. You wouldn't need to replicate all of it, or maybe even any of it. If you could create barriers, maybe the same way you create arrows, that could work?"

    Bouncing arrows off walls. Homura does remember Madoka using that specific power. "I don't think you should worry too much about how creative it is. That's useful, and is the kind of thing I'm talking about. You never know when you'll need to attack from multiple angles or around a corner. If you want my advice, I'd say worry about what's possible first, and then try to figure out if you can use it."

    Homura considers. "Actually... if you could get those arrows to bounce between two walls, and like... keep bouncing. You could create a wall that way, maybe. I'm not sure how possible that is, and it'd depend on two walls being conveniently nearby."

    Madoka is very tempting! Especially when she's so, so kissy. Homura could just get lost in those kisses, forgetting that the rest of the universe even exists. It's just herself and Madoka, floating in a kissy abyss.

    Homura blushes slightly as Madoka's legs are wrapped around her, and that blush intensifies as Madoka says what she wishes for. Homura stares at her, and then smiles. "Well, if you want to do that, should we do that here, or somewhere else? We've got several beds and a few couches to choose from~."

    It's really like a dream come true. Because while Homura is somewhat joking with her squealy voice Madoka knows she really would just hug and cuddle her if she could get away with it, and that's as good as she could have ever hoped for; a girlfriend who not only wants to hug her, but wants to hug as much as she does herself. "More than a plushie? But they're so huggable! I don't know if I could compare... though I suppose you could test it and let me know!" She has plenty that Homura could test back at her house too. ...best to be thorough with that kind of testing, right?

    On a calmer note she returns the smile, "And that you can be happy with me makes everything worth it for me, too. My Homura-chan deserves to be happy just as much as I do. That's why it's so nice we can be happy together."

    Part of it is intentional, and that in turn is part of the reason why Madoka always tries to get Homura to go easier on herself. Though some people may think otherwise Homura has never gone around picking fights and starting trouble, and that isn't something that went unnoticed by Madoka, doubly so after she saw so many of Homura's memories.

    Madoka gives a nod of her head, "Protecting people is protecting people. Maybe sometimes people's reasons aren't so obvious, but when that's the case I think they would usually be better off talking about it if you confronted them about it." She's willing to admit, "Sometimes that might not be possible though. Some secrets do need to be kept."

    Worry about what's possible before creativity? "That's true. I'm not sure I've ever tried to really test my limits directly. I feel like I've pushed them when fighting, but I've never done that on purpose just to test them." She considers this for a few moments before letting out a small sigh, "That's something that will have to wait until we have a better supply of Grief Seeds, though."

    Homura mentions arrows repeatedly bouncing between walls and she tilts her head, "That would probably make a good trap and might be able to block someone off! Hmm..."

    It's true. Madoka is very, very kissy right now. She is, after all, a teenager who is deeply in love with her girlfriend. One might even say girlcrazy, if restricted to this particular girl. Thinking that she doesn't get the urge to kiss her until she forgets to breathe wouldn't be factually incorrect. It's just balanced by her self control and the fact her desire to cuddle and snuggle is just as strong. A kissy abyss- is there such a thing as a positively aligned abyss? If so Madoka wouldn't mind vacationing there with Homura for a while, a blissful holiday of floating weightless and trading affections.

    Homura's blush and stare tells Madoka that yes, she did actually say that out loud. Her own face quickly reddens, though when Homura smiles and offers she giggles nervously. "The dance floor is kind of hard... so somewhere else?" Her head turns one direction, and then another. She practically hides her face against Homura's neck as she whispers, "The one that's closest!"

    "Lots of testing!" Homura agrees. "I'll have to hug one of your plushies, and then you, for a direct comparison. Then I'll have to repeat that for each of your plushies. Maybe twice, so we can get a really big sample size!" Of course, this means hugging Madoka at least once for each plushie that Madoka has. "I'm pretty confident in my hypothesis, though! I have a lot of experience in hugging you~. In my expert opinion you're the most huggily-est."

    Yes she's making up words now. Homura is just fully embracing the cute at this point. "Thank you, so much, for being happy with me, and for letting me be happy with you."

    Homura nods and is a bit more serious as Madoka talks about protecting people and fights. Some fights are unavoidable, and some are misunderstandings. There's no denying that. "You never really know what someone is fighting for. Maybe they have a good reason you just aren't aware of. It's hard to imagine a good reason for wanting to hurt innocent people, though."

    She nods even more emphatically as Madoka talks about waiting for more Grief Seeds. "Absolutely. It's not an option right now, but also you might not need those skills if things continue as they are."

    A kissy abyss would certainly be positively aligned as far as Homura's concerned. Something to offset and counterbalance against the Dusk Zone, maybe? Whatever it is, Homura feels like she could go there right away. Maybe it's a good time for that vacation!

    Speaking of, it's about time to vacate the dance floor. Homura coos softly, "As you wish~," and then carries Madoka away! Through the doors and up the stairs, holding Madoka tight the whole time. "I think the closest is the cuddle couch!"

    Homura walks through the hall, past one of her terraces, and into the largest room in the house. She places Madoka down on the couch, and then slowly leans against her until she's laying on top of her.

    "Better?" she asks, with a lilt in her voice.

    Madoka can hardly stop giggling as Homura lays out a careful plan for testing how huggable she is compared to her plushies. "Hehehe! I think I'm up to the task! I'm sure my stuffed animals wouldn't mind getting a hug from you either." She actually blushes as she thinks about Homura picking up each one of her plushies and giving them a tight squeeze before setting them back down. That thought... it's just too adorable! Especially when she imagines Homura hugging her in between. "I think by now I've hugged you more than I've hugged anyone else, so you really are the world's leading expert." She gives Homura a playful look, "But I don't know, you're pretty snuggly yourself!" More happy bubbly laughter and giggling as she's declared the most higgily-est.

    Her face is a bright happy thing right now, a wide smile showing, directed at the person who's doing such a good job of putting it there. "You're welcome, Homura-chan! It means so much to me that you can be happy. You have such a sweet and pretty smile, I can't help wanting to make you smile all the time!" She looks into her girlfriends eyes and says in a softer tone, "I can tell, too, that you're so much happier than you were, I can see it in your eyes." She leans in and gives a gentle brush of the tip of her nose against Homura's, "I'm reminded of it every when I see you, and I'm thankful you can enjoy life."

    On the more serious topic Madoka nods in agreement. It really is hard to tell sometimes whether people have good reasons for what they do, or if they're just doing it out of greed. Runealy is probably the best example she knows of someone doing the wrong thing for the right reasons, but she doesn't even have the full story there to comment on it. "I agree, when they're hurting people a lot of the time you don't really have a choice but to try and stop them and ask later. I don't think you necessarily have to hurt them if you can help it, though." Madoka isn't completely naive; obviously hurting people is a relative thing when it comes to magical combat. If she has enough Grief Seeds to heal herself with even severely injuring a Puella Magi won't really hurt her long term.

    As for now not being a great time to test her magic to try and come up with new skills, Madoka can only nod in agreement once more. For now it's not really worth spending too much mental energy on or worrying about. Especially when there's things like potential kissy abysses to consider instead.

    A vacation is something Madoka might even seriously consider right now. True they have school to think of but they could probably study ahead in anticipation, especially when Homura is already ridiculously far ahead of her stated grade level. Without Witches to fight and the fact they're trying to avoid magic use it's easy to think this would be a time when they could go somewhere fun and not have to worry about possible repercussions.

    As she's carried out of the room Madoka squeals playfully, clinging close to Homura and giggling. Being held against Homura so closely isn't exactly unenjoyable, and the fact that her girlfriend was able to pick her up so easily is fun in itself. She is pretty small for a girl her age, but Homura made it seem easy! It probably doesn't come as a surprise when Madoka squeezes herself even closer, and not for the sole purpose of making it easier for her to be carried, though that is the primary reason. "The cuddle couch sounds perfect!"

    Up the stairs and down a hall, Madoka doesn't even look out onto the terrace and beyond as they pass it, eyes closed as she enjoys being carried along. Her smile brightens and widens as she's set down on the couch, her grip on Homura loosening as she's leaned carefully down onto her back. Then she feels Homura's weight starting to press down on her, and Madoka's hands are free to brush over her girlfriends back, rubbing it gently before one hand reaches up to pet lovingly over her hair, a hand caressing the back of her head a moment later. "Much better," she coos, eyes opening back up and meeting Homura's.

    The look she gives is undoubtedly romantic, her pleasure in being close obvious and guilt free. She shifts a little beneath Homura, not so much to get more comfortable as the cuddle couch serves it's purpose splendidly, but rather because she wants to squirm a little to increase the effect of feeling Homura against her, like an especially close hug. The shape and feel of Homura's body against hers is by now a known and comfortable thing with how much time they spend cuddling and snuggling with each other, but like this it's just a little different. Having Homura's weight against her makes her feel extra safe and extra comfortable, like her darling is physically shielding her from the world.

    And it isn't so much that she feels like she needs to be shielded, but rather that she enjoys feeling protected and cared for. Homura has certainly been protective of her, and Madoka has even told her she feels that the dark haired girl is like a guardian angel to her, something extra amusing when Homura calls Madoka her little angel so often; the opposite is just as true.

    Even without a blanket to cover them it's an especially cozy and warm position, evident when Madoka finally settles down. It's also an undeniably romantic one. Madoka's eyes get an adoring and passionate look in them as she gazes up at Homura, a light but steady blush settling on her face. There's not much doubt what she's thinking of, her eyes peeking downward for a moment to Homura's lips, unconsciously pursing her own together and biting her lower one for the shortest moment. The fingers at the back of Homura's head press between and beneath the soft black locks tracing gently over her scalp before trailing down through the length of her hair.

    Homura would even be able to feel Madoka's heartbeat speed up as she lays there, working herself up in her own mind before asking in a meek but hopeful voice, "Kiss me?"

    Homura nods firmly in a mock-serious motion. "That's right! It's scientific fact. You're the most huggily-est, cuddliest, sweetest and cutest anything ever! Thouth I will have to do a very thorough cuddling each time just to be sure. It might take a long time to get through all that cuddling, but I think it's a worthwhile effort!" When she's told that she's snuggly too, she says, "Well, it takes one to know one!"

    Homura's smile just gets a little bit brighter as Madoka calls her smile 'pretty'. Well if Madoka wants to see Homura smile, then Homura's going to smile. It's not like Madoka isn't giving her plenty of reason! "You're the reason I can be happy, Madoka-chan. You've been so good to me, and so sweet, and you really have saved me. In so many ways."

    Homura still agrees on some of the more serious topics. "There are plenty of times when someone is just desperate or hurting, and turning to bad things because of it, but that doesn't make them bad people, necessarily. A lot of fights can be avoided, and especially now we have no time for petty squabbles. Sometimes you can talk sense to people, or see their point of view, but even if you can't you don't necessarily have to fight. It depends on the situation, and if you look for a way out you can often find one."

    Homura would be more than happy to take Madoka on a real vacation. Depending on things she might even invite the rest of Madoka's family. She has to spend some time considering whether or not she'd invite her own family, though. Wow wouldn't that be awkward. In some ways Junko would know Homura better than Homura's own mother.

    Maybe running away with Madoka alone would be fine! Hawaii is a nice place to go, or so Homura hears.

    The cuddle couch certainly has seen a lot of romance from these two. It's named, specifically, because of what Madoka and Homura do on it. In fact, it's so rare for Homura to have people at her house these days that she's not sure this couch has been used for anything but cuddling. A place for Amy to sleep, maybe. That probably has a lot to do with why Homura thinks of it first, and why it's relatively close to several entrances of the house. She's got her priorities!

    Homura relaxes as Madoka rubs her back, and she puts her weight on her, wrapping her arms around Madoka's back. She shifts a few times to get cuddly close, closing her eyes and letting her long hair drape over both of them like a soft, luxurious black curtain. Surely it's protective, because if anything wanted to get to Madoka, they would have to get through Homura first.

    Madoka asks for a kiss, and Homura's eyes open, pursing her lips to press them softly against Madoka. There's a certain fierceness in her kisses, a confidence and a passion in the way she slips her lips across Madoka's, tastes her breath, and holds her close. She pulls away, whispering, "That's three wishes now, but don't worry~. You can have as many as you like, since you're so precious to me~."

    Madoka giggles as more sweet and silly compliments roll in. "I suppose I can't argue with scientific fact! And if being thorough means cuddling extra long with my sweet and adorable Homura-chan I guess I have no choice but to do my best." She smiles and adds in a quieter, playful voice, "Being close with you is always worthwhile, Homura-chan."

    Madoka does want to see her smile! Whether it's a big bright one or a smaller quietly happy one Madoka loves seeing smiles on her girlfriends face, especially when those smiles reach her eyes. "Everything about you makes me want to be good to you and sweet to you. I've always thought you deserve to be happy."

    That Homura is saying such things about being able to potentially avoid fights, and how even people doing bad things aren't necessarily awful.. it makes Madoka very happy. It's not something that is immediately obvious, and the fact her closest partner feels the same way she does makes it easier to hold that opinion herself. "Maybe it's not always the case, but when it is being able to notice the difference is important. Especially if that means they're actually a potential ally instead of a friend."

    So far Madoka hasn't quite realized how big the rift between Homura and her parents is. Maybe it isn't an ugly one, but it's certainly there. Madoka has realized that being so close with her family is uncommon, and has been so focused on her own interactions with Homura that she hasn't given the lack of contact with her parents much of a thought. Though really the fact they've been dating almost six months and she's never so much as spoken to either of them over the phone should have stuck out to her. Things like that might more easily fall to the wayside when the fate of the world is in the process of being decided, though.

    Alone with Homura for an entire trip to Hawaii? Madoka wouldn't object! Her parents might, though. Still, if it'd mean they could be close like they are now for entire days on end. Snuggling and swimming don't actually go together super well though. Though there's always float tubes!

    That there's a location in Homura's home that is dedicated to the activity of cuddling makes Madoka very giggly and happy. It is maybe a bit silly but she's nothing if not completely open about her loving relationship with her girlfriend. Besides, it isn't as if the couch can't be used for things other than cuddling- it's more that if they're on a couch together she can't really think of a reason they wouldn't cuddle. Maybe if they both took up knitting and needed both hands free?

    Madoka shifts a bit more to help Homura's arms go under her. Once they're securely around her Madoka hugs her tightly, squeezing her down extra close against her. It feels so very good to be held; ever since she started dating being held is one of the things she's wanted most, always. To be cradled and adored, needed both physically and emotionally. Homura has never let her down in this, has never left her feeling unloved or uncared for. She knows she's wanted and needed, that her physical presence is desired. As Homura's hair falls around her head it's almost like she's in a tiny private room with the other girl, and her smile sweetens.

    Madoka lets out a happy, "Mm..." as she's kissed, her craving for the softness of Homura's lips against her own satisfied. The fierceness to the kissing makes her heart beat faster and returns their passion equally, far from a passive partner in the trading of affection. When Homura pulls away Madoka giggles at the mention of wishes, "My wish is always to be close to you, my sweet love."

    Hearing that she's precious makes her eyes sparkle with joy, and she lifts her head from the couch and gives a very gentle and tender kiss to Homura's lips. She pulls away, only to giggle and immediately kiss again, this time trapping one of Homura's lips between her own and sucking on it, playful and passionate before parting her lips and letting herself completely lose herself in the joys of being young and in love with deep kisses.

    It occurs to her after a moment that a whispered declaration of love would have fit nicely, but doesn't fret about it. After all, she's saying it with actions right now!

    'Being close with you is always worthwhile, Homura-chan.'

    Homura giggles mischievously. "Great minds think alike~."

    'Everything about you makes me want to be good to you and sweet to you. I've always thought you deserve to be happy.'

    "You know... it's funny. I've always felt the same way about you."

    Homura nods solemnly, "It is important to know the difference, and to mind it. Many fights end up being misunderstandings, even if those misunderstandings can't be avoided, and very few people are truly, deeply evil." Few people, not 'no people'. "At least that's been my experience."

    One might imagine Homura and Madoka floating on a pool raft, or some other floating pool toy, cuddling in the sun and feeling the cool ocean breeze against their skin, sharing a cold slushie or a snowcone. Maybe Homura could say something like 'See? I told you we'd make our own little paradise.'

    If knitting means that Homura can't cuddle Madoka then knitting is hobby that Homura isn't going to stick to for very long. Unless she was knitting something cute for Madoka, like a Homu-made plushie or something. That'd be about what it'd take to get her to stick with it in those conditions.

    "Well that's another wish I can make true for you, dear~," says Homura, letting gravity press her against her beloved. In a way, like this, she's getting to have Madoka all to herself, and not needing to share her with anyone! Homura's hair only makes small, subtle movements as Homura shares sweet kisses with Madoka.

    She gasps, softly, when her own lip are caught between one of Madoka's. One of her hands moves from behind Madoka's back to cradle her chin, teeth closing around one of Madoka's lips as their mouths are entwined, but not enough to hurt. Just enough to make the kiss last just a little longer.

    Her hand moves behind Madoka's head, cradling it. She doesn't say she loves Madoka right now either, but actions do speak louder don't they?

    "We really do have a lot in common that way, don't we? We both care about each other and want to see each other happy, and we also want to protect each other from harm and pain. I'm so happy I met you, Homura-chan, I really do think we're very much alike in so many ways. It's almost like we're kindred spirits. It's no wonder once we had time to get to know each other and spend time together we fell in love." Technically speaking Homura fell in love with her before they had the chance to spend so much time together, but that's really just a technicality. "That's why I still think we were meant to be together."

    Fights being misunderstandings is a big reason she never did like them. Surely Magical Girls had so much more in common than they did to push them apart, right? But now there are more Magical Girls than just Puella Magi. "If misunderstandings that make people fight can't be avoided, then we should be careful not to fight in a way that makes us enemies because of the fighting itself." It's more a general statement than a suggestion for the two of them; it's not likely either of them would fight for keeps unless something very important was on the line. "We know what to do once it's clear someone is completely evil." Madoka has no lost love for Beryl. She might feel bad for the person she once was back before she was corrupted if she knew the whole story, but it was clear how far gone she really was at the end.

    The warmth of her beloved in her arms combined with the warmth of the sun on her skin? That would be a wonderful memory for Madoka! And who could turn down a slushie or snowcone in the summer heat? Paradise, indeed.

    Madoka would probably fall over herself trying to thank Homura for such a kind gift as a Homu-made plushie. Then again she's so apt to snuggle with her girlfriend she might inadvertently prevent such a thing from ever being completed. Well, there's always timestop magic, right?

    "You really are going to spoil me after all," Madoka coos in a soft voice, clearly not minding if such a thing were to happen. In this moment she is all Homura's, the dark haired girl taking up every bit of her focus. All her senses are attuned to her, feeling her pressed close and her warmth, smelling any perfume she might be wearing, perhaps her shampoo with her hair over them both, and Homura herself. When she opens her eyes they're focused completely on the face of the beautiful girl, and she listens to her pretty voice as she speaks sweet things to her, and the rustle of clothes as their dresses shift about them. When they kiss she's even tasting Homura's lips. Yes, Homura has Madoka all to herself, physically and mentally.

    Madoka giggles playfully when Homura gasps, only to make a tiny eep when her own lip is nibbled on by Homura's teeth. She blushes and smiles, enjoying being maybe just a little bit naughty with so much kissing.

    As Homura's hand goes behind her head Madoka makes a very happy sound, turning her head from side to side a little to better feel that cradling. Homura can feel her fluffy hair pulled tight as it's drawn towards her pigtails, the feeling of the zigzag part at the back of her head easily distinguished. She runs her fingers through Homura's hair again before both arms rub her back, one brushing up and down low on her back while the other rubs over and between her shoulder blades, feeling the motions they make as Homura hugs her and holds her in different ways.

    Her head keeps lifted off the couch by virtue of Homura cradling her head, and this means the dark haired girl's lips are showered with kisses in a vast multitude ranging from playful pecks to deep and passionate kisses. Both of her arms tighten up, squeezing Homura to herself once more, only for her higher arm to move way, the pink-haired girl shifting so her arm can move under Homura's as they wrap around her

    She reaches up afterwards and sets her fingers and palm against Homura's face, her touch as soft and gentle as it's always been. She brushes gently to feel the softness of her girlfriends skin, and then carefully traces her fingers over the features of Homura's face, feeling her cheekbone and temple, hand brushing beneath the lock of hair that frames her face. She brushes her fingertips over Homura's forehead, lightly teasing her bangs afterwards, only to cup her cheek gently before sliding her fingers down to feel the shape of her girlfriends jaw, and the way it slowly moves as they kiss. Eventually the kissing slows and she pulls away, panting a little from deeper breathing, and traces two fingers gently over Homura's lips, pressing against them softly.

    And then, finally, she shifts around beneath Homura again and draws her other arm up, reaching up and cupping Homura's face with both of her hands. She looks up at Homura, seeing only her face in this hidden world veiled by black hair, her eyes sparkling and her lips curling upwards into a gentle smile, staring at her and taking her in, adoring her and loving her, that pleasant feeling of love fulfilled rising in her chest and spreading over her in a warm tingling.

    It's a technicality if you consider it from this world's perspective, where Homura went to sleep as a medical patient and woke up as a Puella Magi. From Homura's perspective, it's a bit more of a natural progression from being alone to friendship and love. Even if the past decade or so worth of timeloops has been painful, there's no point in Homura's life she'd want to relive more than the time she spent with Madoka Kaname.

    "We are alike, in a lot of ways." Homura's face is a little... well maybe not blank, but neutral as she talks about more serious things. "Superficially one might be surprised that we even know eachother, but from a deeper point of view I think we're coming from the same place. Even if we don't see everything exactly the same, our perspectives are close enough to be compatible. We both want what's best for people, even if we handle that in different ways, and we're both willing to put ourselves on the line for what we care about. I'd respect that much about you even if I didn't agree with you on so many other subjects. Even our differences compliment and complete each other more often than not."

    A grin finds its way back onto her previously neutral face as she says, "I think, even if we weren't before, the fact that we've sold our souls for each other does make us seem like soulmates."

    A way of fighting that makes them enemies? Homura has to ask herself if she's seriously doing that, or if it's just a suggestion. It's something to keep in mind, yeah. Actually, in a lot of ways she did push Takashi into being an enemy. Then again, considering that he was Riventon, he was all the more willing to push Homura into being an enemy too.

    "I never thought about it that way, but it makes sense. If you really don't want enemies, there's very little point in creating them."

    Homura can't help but chuckle in a low voice as Madoka mentions spoiling her. "Just as planned~. Though I think you're spoiling me, too. Giving me everything I want all the time."

    She whispers into Madoka's ear, "... and by 'everything I want', I mean you."

    Homura's own passionate kissing, if one didn't see a happy Madoka moving underneath her, might be mistaken for a hungry predator devouring less fortunate animal. It's voracious, instinctual, even sometimes animalistic. It might even end up with her mouth covered in red, if Madoka wore that color of lipstick.

    Her hair certainly smells like lavender-scented product, but that isn't a bad smell. Homura's perfume is only lightly there, as an accent more than anything. Likely she splashed some on and that's why it took her slightly longer to get dressed. Her hair, as usual, is immaculate. Even a bit more so, since this is romance time between herself and Madoka, and there's no wind or weather here to mess it up.

    The sweet kissing and close holding puts Homura in a trance-like state, not really noticing the outside world and only seeing her beautiful and cute girlfriend in front of her. Has she always been this beautiful? It seems like Homura would've noticed. Maybe she's just so much in love, says some clinical voice in the back of her mind, that Madoka looks more beautiful every time Homura sees her. Though the cute dresses aren't hurting.

    Oh god, Madoka touching her, when she's in this state, sweet beloved fingers tracing all over her face. She knows, from a brief study on psychology, that the face (along with the hands) are two of the most sensitive parts of the body, and this is a demonstration of that fact, as she feels the touches so much. Every motion is sweet, Madoka's fingers softly moving over her features, and Homura is so caught up in the sensation of kissing that when Madoka pushes her two fingers against her lips, Homura kisses those, too. Then her half-open eyes flutter open just slightly more, ears hearing her partner's heavy breathing.

    Then her face is being held and adored, and she's looking straight ahead at her angel in this, their private little world. She can't help but giggle. "I've got you right where I want you~."

    Madoka would argue that Homura shouldn't have had to go through so much pain, but the assertion that the best parts of the other girl's life has been time spent with her would be unendingly flattering.

    "Superficially people understand very much about you or they wouldn't be surprised at all," Madoka says in a sighing tone of resigned acceptance. "We'd both give anything to protect each other, and we both care deeply about protecting innocent people. We don't like fighting when it isn't necessary and see it as a waste." She considers something for a moment, and then says softly, "You might be quicker to action than I am, but that's probably because there have been many times if you hadn't been something terrible would have happened." To herself, Madoka doesn't directly state. She smiles, though, when Homura says their differences compliment and complete each other, "Yes! That's exactly it."

    The grin and the words that follow it draw a giggle from Madoka, "Probably. But I do think we were, even before then. Us meeting the way we did, I think was fate. Even if there was no magic in the world, I believe we'd have found each other." This may be one of those differences that was just spoken about. Though various laws of the universe seem dead set against them Madoka still sees the world as inherently good, with happiness able to be found if it's looked for hard enough. She's had to cope with the world being imperfect a whole lot, but perfection isn't a requirement of goodness. After all, if a Magial Girl can have serious flaws, make terrible mistakes, and come back from the brink as a hero, why can't the universe itself do the same?

    And on a slightly different level this universe is a place where Madoka Kaname and Homura Akemi both exist, and have fallen truly and deeply in love. When something so beautiful exists within it, how can it's core be rotten?

    Madoka would also argue that there's a way of fighting and opposing someone without doing everything you can to try and hurt or kill them. Homura's earlier comments about a chop to the back to incapacitate are a perfect example, as are her flashbang grenades. True, there are circumstances where that ambulance really needs to crash into a jerk to make a statement, but that doesn't mean everyone in every fight Homura faces requires ambulatory attention. "If someone really is misguided they may be upset with you for stopping their plans, but they might thank you later when they realize you did your best not to hurt them." She laughs a little nervously, "Actually, I'm really just guessing since I haven't put it into practice yet. But it sounds good?"

    Homura was spoiling Madoka on purpose all along?! But of course Madoka knew that, because Homura told her. Repeatedly. That doesn't make hearing it again any less fun. "Hehehe! Good! You deserve to be spoiled and given my affection!"

    '... and by 'everything I want', I mean you.'

    Madoka can suddenly be felt squirming beneath Homura again, and her face suddenly flushes red enough to just overtake her hair in color. "H-homura-chan..!"

    And then she's being kissed passionately, and fiercely. Once more Homura is giving her exactly what she wanted all along. The overflowing passion overwhelms her in the best of ways, and she returns the kissing as best she can, her lip gloss now split evenly between her lips and Homura's. She knew Homura had this side to her, having gotten a wonderful taste of it when the first kissed.

    Back then along with the pent up tension and incredible natural chemistry it meant that Madoka was instantly sold on having Homura as a girlfriend, even when she was so nervous and reluctant to potentially damage their friendship immediately before. Now she lets herself enjoy that wonderful passion and the kissing it inspires, almost desperate to accept it now that it's fury has been unleashed.

    Yes, Homura, Madoka truly loves this part of you, too.

    When the passion dies down and gives way to sweetness and gentleness once more she basks in the attention Homura gives her. There's no mistaking that look she's being given. Being wanted, being needed, being loved; these three things are what Madoka always craved without realizing it, and now her self doubts and frustrations are swept away anew, because there can be no doubt that Homura Akemi loves her above all else. She can't help but respond and love her back in return.

    The fact Madoka finds her heartstoppingly gorgeous and a sweet and wonderful person is the best possible icing on their lovecake.

    Homura's face is touched, and Madoka's fingers are kissed. Her lips curl into another sweet smile, only to giggle in turn at Homura's playful words. "Is this where you want me?" Madoka asks, "Then I'll come here anytime you want." The playful tone of her voice masks the fact that she couldn't be more serious.

    Is Homura quicker to action than Madoka? Well, sure. Homura did initiate this relationship and she's sometimes on a hair trigger because she has to be. "I think that's less of a personality difference and more of a matter of experience. The more I make the same choices over and over, the quicker it is for me to make those choices. I don't need to spend a lot of time pondering over whether or not I want to save you, or wondering how I should defeat a Witch. I've made those decisions a thousand times already. I wouldn't be surprised if, after gaining more experience, you were just as decisive."

    While Homura wouldn't mind protecting Madoka from the terrors of the world forever, she also finds something undeniably attractive in this Madoka who is a capable magical girl. Just thinking about Madoka being heroic and amazing makes Homura's little heart go 'doka doka doka'.

    "If there was no magic, I wonder how things would have gone. I bet we would've been good friends, though I'd still be a bit shy. Or maybe you'd eventually coax me out of my shell?" It would be nice to think that, even in such a world, Madoka and Homura would still be happy together. "One thing I'm sure of, I wouldn't know nearly as much as I do about bombs and guns."

    It's a little hard for Homura to comprehend the idea that destiny would ever actually be nice to her, even if this timeline is different. It's true, she's with Madoka, and there's an undeniable connection between them. Maybe fate isn't that cruel here, but Homura is going to maintain a certain level of suspicion regardless.

    Homura shrugs on the subject of making enemies. "I think it's a bit late for me to make that claim, in several cases." Images of throwing napalm at Riventon and pointing a gun at Kyouko's Soul Gem come to mind, though in the latter case Homura had no intention of actually pulling that trigger. "Maybe you could, though. If that's a path you want to pursue, I'll support it."

    Madoka's reaction to her whisper causes Homura to giggle uncontrollably. She watches with glee as Madoka turns bright red, enjoying every minute of it. Changing colors means she likes it, right?

    It must be the earlier cuteness that is bringing this out of her, because Homura's really in a kissy mood today. Maybe they do this a little less often, but just because the initial rush of their relationship faded that doesn't mean their love does. Though it's a little hard to say that the 'passion' is gone when they're both kissing so passionately~.

    How does one eat a lovecake, anyways? Is it like a cupcake where you eat it all in one bite? Or maybe it's like a wedding cake, where you both try to feed each other at the same time? One might assume the latter considering that's close to how Homura and Madoka eat ice cream already.

    Madoka is most certainly loved, and wanted, and needed, and it would be a mistake to think that Homura doesn't feel it viscerally. The same intensity that has so often been aimed towards saving Madoka's life is now aimed towards smothering Madoka with hugs and kisses.

    "Oh by all means, come here as often as you like!" She speaks the next words as if she were caressing them with her voice. "My dear sweet beloved Madoka-chan."

    So as she gains more experience Madoka will be able to read a situation quicker and also have a better understanding of what she is and isn't willing to do? It does make sense.

    In a world that does have terrors in it Madoka always finds herself inescapably drawn to helping protect people unable to help themselves. "I hope I would have been able to coax you out of your shell eventually, but I wouldn't have minded if you were shy." She giggles, looking up into Homura's eyes, "I think I would have eventually given you a hug for one reason or another, and from there the rest would have come naturally."

    Madoka makes a soft hum, "You can consider it for the future even if you hadn't before in the past." That's as far as she'll go, because her intent is not to shame Homura into changing her ways or make her feel bad, or even criticize; she's trying to say express that had been on her mind lately. "I think it is. I can't say I won't make mistakes one way or the other, but I think it's something worth trying." It's not like she's going to go easy on a Witch hell bent on killing her.

    Most of the time making Madoka blush does mean she likes it. When she doesn't she'd make it much more obvious, turning away or stammering out something defensive. Light and playful teasing isn't something she's shied away from.

    Is it the cuteness that drew out Homura's lingering passions? Maybe Madoka will have to try and be extra adorable while cuddling with her more often. Of course being lovey dovey is something she enjoys for it's own sake, so if she looks at it in the right way it'd be a win-win situation regardless of outcome.

    Lovecake is a complex confection that varies from couple to couple and can take many forms. A wedding cake would be apt for Homura and Madoka despite the lack of actual an wedding, because it's as multilayered and complex as it is beautiful. On the other hand it might be an ice cream cake, delicious and melty and getting all over their faces when offered up to one another.

    Another person might find this much affection being lavished upon them just that, smothering. But not Madoka. She eats up every moment of the hugs and kisses and revels in the joy of being given so much romantic attention, returning the kisses eagerly and pressing back tightly when hugged, a bright smile showing on her face as she's squeezed close by her darling girlfriend. It might not even be possible for Homura to overwhelm Madoka with hugs and kisses to the point that it made her uncomfortable, or made her want to stop. Maybe if she became so hungry or thirsty she simply had to eat food and drink water, but that's not the same thing at all.

    Once upon a time Homura told her that her feelings were very intense, and Madoka asked her to be gentle. Now Madoka can't help but notice the intensity of those feelings, and is thankful she's the one lucky enough to be at the center of it.

    Kisses are pressed to Homura's lips once more, and Madoka's hands slip up from her face, fingers sliding into her hair and then running fully through the length of the silky black locks, pushing some of Homura's hair down her back so that Madoka can return her embrace once more. "I'll be here with you always, my dearest sweetheart Homura-chan." She presses a soft kiss to her girlfriends lips, brushing her cheek against Homura's afterwards as she slips her head over her shoulder for a close, snuggly embrace. She turns her head, brushing the tip of her nose behind Homura's ear, her lips right next to it.

    She was saying it through actions earlier, but she can't help wanting to express it through words one more time. A quiet whisper but so near that Madoka's sweet voice can be heard clearly, her breath warm on Homura's skin.

    Lovingly, tenderly, completely, "I love you."

    Homura considers how her past self would have reacted to a hug. She would have liked it, even then. She would have stuck to 'Kaname-san' for months before finally calling Madoka by her first name. Actually if she thinks about it, without the timelines being reset their relationship might have developed a lot faster. Well, faster from Homura's point of view.

    "I think it wouldn't have taken so long to get this far. I think if we had experienced time normally... well... we'd be 26 or so? Just imagine what we could do with all that extra time... though maybe that's pointless."

    "Yeah we don't have to be like... say... Kyouko-san and pick fights with everyone. If that's not what we want to do then no one's going to make us. What's important is standing by the choices you do make."

    Part of it also was Homura feeling like she could joke about it or be silly. She did want Madoka to know how she felt, and she felt like earnest and sincere words would communicate that, but by now she feels confident that Madoka has gotten the picture. Plus if they're going to be sweet on each other they may as well enjoy the sweetness.

    One of these days Homura is going to start stashing some foodstuffs underneath the cuddle couch so that they can have something to eat without needing to stop their cuddling. Or maybe they'll just cuddle at the dinner table instead?

    Homura has always had intense feelings for Madoka, and she's said as much. The first time she said it in this timeline, it was a warning, and maybe even an apology. Right now? She doesn't feel much need to apologize for anything, especially if Madoka enjoys it so much.

    Madoka starts kissing again, and Homura takes it to mean that Madoka has caught her breath, resuming her own furious and sweet kissing, kissing that only Madoka gets to feel from her. She breaks, long enough to say, "Then I really do have you right where I want you~."

    Madoka snuggles up to her, and Homura nuzzles against her shoulder and neck. Hearing such a wonderful declaration of love, gives the young puella goosebumps, and so shivering and full of wanting she responds, "I love you, too."