Numb Nums

“I can’t take it anymore!” Iva whined, gripping the edge of the tray. The small dish even rattled, causing the slurry inside to slop to the near side of the rim. “I want normal food!”

Nicole’s head tilted to one side, cooing down at Iva. Gently stroking the brunette's hair, Nicole rested her chin in her free hand. “I know sweetie, but…” casting her gaze to the island, she smirked. Beside her own plate was another saucer, bits of her own meal had been carved out and placed inside. Tiny morsels left uneaten, small bite-marks still visible on some of the larger pieces. “…we gave it a try. Your itty-bitty digestive system can’t handle that stuff right now.”

“I can’t believe this!” Iva hissed, toeing the bracer bar of her high chair. “I just can’t.”

Nicole’s cheek ached, she could feel every tendon and muscle in her jaw straining against the urge to smile. 

Iva looked up, glaring at Nicole. The smaller woman’s green eyes twinkling up at her like copper flames. Her hair swept back into a loose ponytail, the adorable sailor suit… the scene was just too much. Sucking her lips into her mouth, straining against the joy bubbling through her veins, Nicole snorted.

“I don’t know why you’re so happy, this is your fault!” She groaned, rolling her eyes. Arching an eyebrow, Nicole noted the smaller woman’s gaze lingering on her chest. She removed her jumper, and was clad only in leggings and a bra. Iva’s cheeks flushed before she looked away.

“Who’s fault?” Nicole teased, gently pinching Iva’s little cheek. “The ray wasn’t cleared for testing, shouldn’t have been connected to a power supply, and frankly… who’s idea was it to ‘fool-around’ in the test chamber?”

Iva’s tiny face blanched, her small frame fidgeting in her seat. She began mumbling under her breath, unable to meet Nicole’s gaze.

“Use your words sweetie.” Nicole teased, crossing her leg. “Like a big girl.”

The small woman’s shoulder’s curled inwards, like she was shrinking again. Resting her head against her hand, Iva pouted. “You were a willing participant.” She said in a huff.

“Partially. Wasn’t it…You… who pulled the trigger?” Lifting her foot, Nicole toyed with Iva’s bare calf. “In fact, I don’t recall there even being a separate trigger in the original schematics… whoever added that little feature…” Smirking, Nicole loomed over the tiny woman. “…I wonder?”