A/N: Thank goodness Avatar is on Netflix to pass some time during quarantine. I hope all of you are staying safe as much as you can.

Please leave a review / favorite if you can! Enjoy!
Also – Adult universe. I'm going to say….five to ten years after the 100 years war…

XxXx

"Oh, God, Zuko," Katara mewled pushing her hips forward into his fingertips. She bit her bottom lip to stifle more cries as her hands gripped the edge of the kitchen sink tightly. His lips burned warm kisses down her neck towards her shoulders, using his teeth to pull her blouse open to reveal more of her. His breath came out in warm puffs of steam that made her sweat.

Zuko continued to work her soft spots, one hand squeezing her nipple through the blouse as his other hand made smooth circles over her wetness. He couldn't help but adore the little noises she made when he found an especially gracious spot. His cock twitched against the ties of his pants as he felt her quiver and moan his name under her breath. His tongue came out and lay flat against her shoulder, giving it a lick towards her pulse as she let out a startled squeak.

"I love seeing you like this," He moaned into her ear, pushing his erection into her backside to let her know what she did to him, "I want to see more."

Katara took a shaky pleasured breath and forced herself to turn, briefly missing the feel of his fingers curling up her skirts and into her folds. Her cheeks flushed she reached up and cupped his cheeks, "Then take me, Fire Lord." She said seductively, but in his eyes she saw him pause and his breath shallowed for a few inhales.

Oh no… she thought.

Cold metal. No. Cold gold. Her wedding ring pressed into his right cheek. The chilling reminder that she was not his…and never would be. Zuko put his hand over hers and peered into her crystal blue eyes. His lips pressed into a thin line before he lunged forward and captured her in a fervent kiss. His hands quickly dug into her hair and took hold of the strong chestnut curls.

If this were the only way he could have her…In pleasure and bliss…with guilt and shame…He needed her. He always had. Ever since they had traveled together during the war. Ever since they had been captured together in Ba Sing Se…she was always on his mind.

And nothing had changed since she married the avatar.

Pulling away from the kiss his hands went down and tore her skirts wide open, causing her to gasp and hold onto his broad shoulders. Katara's breath coming in small, expecting pants she reached down untied his pants. He let them fall to his ankles in a heap of crimson. She blushed as she peered down and saw his throbbing manhood.

Even though it was not the first time she had seen it, the size and girth always came as a shock. She swallowed and looked into his eyes. He reached down and grabbed her by the thighs, setting her on the edge of the counter and recapturing her in a kiss. Pressing his head to her womanhood he felt her squirm and mewl.

"Do you want me, Katara?" He asked, heart skipping a beat as he waited for the answer.

"Yes." She replied immediately, wrapping her arms around his wide shoulders. Digging her fingers into his long black hair as he began thrusting wildly.

XxXx

Zuko woke up the next morning to bright sunlight streaming through the white curtains of Katara and Aang's guest room. Sitting up languidly he stretched with a series of pops and cracking that was supposed to come from men much older than him. He couldn't help but chuckle slightly as he stood, but the smile quickly fell from his face as he saw his reflection in the mirror. His black hair was a mess but, as always, his scar was immediately where his attention went. It was where everyone's attention went. It marred his face in deep pink and purple hues all the way from the bridge of his nose to a little behind his ear.

But the scar wasn't what troubled him when he saw his reflection now. It was his actions and what he saw behind his eyes.

I should be disgusted with myself... I really should… How could I do this again? Aang's my friend… my best friend…Agni…

He sighed and began fixing his hair with the golden comb he had brought. The metal glinted in the morning light giving sharp contrast to his jet-black hair. He tied his hair up in a topknot with a crimson ribbon; but left his golden crown behind. He wouldn't be needing it today.

Coming out of the guest room in his crimson tunic he saw Katara, nursing a cup of steaming tea in her hands. He knew this look. Her downcast crystal eyes. The way her head hung forward slightly.

Regret…

"Morning…" Zuko began, going to the cabinet to grab a cup to make himself a cup of tea.

"Morning." She said softly, "Zuko…I…"

"I know," he said softly before she could continue, "I know."

"I just… When Aang is gone so long saving the world and building cities and just being the avatar…I get so lonely." She said softly, shutting her eyes sharply.

Zuko knew that wasn't the whole story, but he never pushed the issue. He could understand loneliness – he'd felt lonely most of his life…and especially now when everyone had gone their separate ways.

"Katara… please don't feel guilty." He said softly, sipping his strong black tea that she had made. The taste of Kyoshi peaches stretched across his tongue and he relished in the flavor. It tasted like springtime and fresh air and was warm enough to create a sense of heat through his veins. He would have to bring some for his Uncle – he would love this flavor.

Reaching across the table after a moment he wrapped Katara's hands in his own, "Please…this….well….whatever we are…it's not terrible. It's just…"

"Just what, Zuko? How could it not be terrible! I'm being unfaithful to Aang who trusts me with all his heart. And so are you…"

That hurt and she knew it the second she saw it in his eyes. Those soft golden eyes that she so adored usually shone with a bright vivacity and passion that she craved. But as those words tumbled from her mouth she saw his eyes dim and his shoulders fall for a moment.

"I know. I know what I'm doing."

"Then why?" She teared up.

"Because I want you…" he said softly, pulling her hands across the table to kiss her knuckles one at a time. The warmth of his kisses surging through her veins to create pink blush across her cheeks. The callouses on top of his fingertips send shockwaves through her spine and made her sit up straighter.

"Zuko, I…" she began, but then the front door sprung open in the other room.

"Kataraaaa!" Sokka's familiar voice soared through her living room. She quickly pulled her hands away from Zuko and put them back around the cup right as Sokka entered the kitchen. He paused for a moment before laughing, "Sifu Hotman! What are you doing here?" he laughed.

"I was doing some business on the mainland and decided to stop by while I was out." He lied casually, sipping his tea, "But, I arrived pretty late last night and decided to head straight to bed when I arrived."

Well…that's not totally a lie…

"Well it's good to see you. We don't see enough of our favorite hot-head." Sokka smiled, resting a hand on his hip. "But, Katara. One of the warriors hurt themselves during morning training. Mind taking a look at them?"

"Of course," Katara nodded, standing and picking up her water skin from next to the sink with an air of urgency. Being the only healer on the island who had water-bending abilities she always felt that it was her duty on Kyoshi island to look out for the warriors and its people. She had no time to dally and had actually run out of the house before saying goodbye to Sokka or Zuko. Leaving the two grown men in the kitchen.

"Zuko," Sokka sat where Katara had been seated, "What's really going on?"

"Huh?" Zuko's eyes were alarmed.

Does he know? He can't…. But he is surprisingly genius at times. Dear, Agni, please don't…

"I mean…you're on the island a lot sometimes… visiting pretty frequently. Let me guess…" Sokka rubbed his chin as Zuko tried to hide the fact that sweat was beading on the back of his neck, "You're tired of all the news on how you're still single and are thinking about a certain Kyoshi warrior?"

Zuko let out an exhale that was laced with a small chuckle, "Well…you caught me. Although, I don't have any in mind. I don't have time for a wife anyway…"

"Nonsense! Me and Suki are two very busy souls…but we still find to be busy, ifyaknowwhatImean?" he wiggled an eyebrow and Zuko looked at him unamused. "But anyways. You just gotta…go for it. You just have to take a leap of faith and hope that it works."

If only you knew, Sokka. Zuko sighed internally. If only you knew that the avatar has the only woman I could ever see myself marrying.

"I'll try, Sokka. When I find her I'll give it my all." He smiled genuinely. Sokka was taken aback since Zuko had such infrequent smiles – especially now as Fire Lord. Sokka truly pitied his old friend. Sometimes when Zuko was around Sokka could tell he had the weight of the world on his shoulders. There were times, earlier on when he was beginning to be Fire Lord, where he would visit Kyoshi island and just sit on the sand staring out at the ocean. Sokka knew better than to approach him during those times and would keep his distance – but always watching. Always making sure Zuko wouldn't jump into the ocean and disappear from their lives. He was so brittle at times it seemed like he would float away like burnt paper on the wind. But, his sister Katara (always braver in her compassion) would sometimes sit next to him on that sand. Quietly holding his hand or listening as he word-vomited all his troubles and frustrations.

I always thought that they would… Sokka sighed with a sad smile…But then again…how can someone turn down a marriage proposal from an avatar?

"Zuko.. Let's go for a walk around. It might be nice. Since I'm sure you can't stay too long."

"I'll leave tonight or tomorrow night depending on my schedule." Zuko smiled, standing up but becoming bent at the waist slightly by the heavy weight of Sokka's arm over his shoulders and shaking him brotherly. Zuko let out an earnest laugh and put an arm around Sokka's back. The two were about even in height and build and, if not for the difference in skin tones, one could have mistaken them as brothers.

"Then I need to find you a Kyoshi warrior who is cute to take home as the next Fire Empress." Sokka smiled brightly, leading him from the room.

XxXx

In the Kyoshi warrior injury tent Katara saw about twelve injuries a day – most minor cuts, sprains, and bruises – but today she wasn't expecting the first wound of the day to be a complete shoulder dislocation. These were terrible. Even with her waterbending abilities she wouldn't be able to take the pain away as she moved the bone back into place. She saw the young girls eyes water as the bone was set into place and the muscles untangled from their loops.

"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry." She said softly wishing she could take away her pain.

When the arm was back in place she pulled away and instructed the girl to not train for today – and tomorrow – just to be safe. As she was putting the rest of the healing water away she looked up and saw Zuko and her brother walking across the way. They were making their way up the slope towards the Kyoshi warrior training grounds. Zuko was in his crimson tunic and had added his fire-nation belt across his middle. His long black hair was in its topknot and swayed gently with the ocean wind that was customary on Kyoshi island. She couldn't help but swallow as her mouth felt dry remembering the feel of his hair brushing against her skin the night before. Of his hot trail of kisses from her breasts going lower and lower…

No no no. She shook the thought from her head.

She then looked over at her brother who was wearing clothes from the Southern Water Tribe. His hair had grown some, but he kept it in the ponytail at the back of his head. However, with Suki's advice, he had grown a beard. He had his black-metal sword at his side and was talking loudly and animatedly.

As always, Katara thought with an eye roll. She finished up and ran out to join them.

"Hey!" Sokka smiled, "All done?"

"Yeah…she's going to be in some pain for the rest of the day so she needs her rest. But what are you two doing out here?" She asked, her eyes going from Sokka to Zuko.

"Trying to get Zuko a ladyfriend." Sokka grinned widely at his little sister, "I mean. He's been single all these years. He needs a fire empress to get started on those little heirs he needs." He shrugged Zuko's shoulder with a wide grin.

Huh? Did she just…Sokka noticed that Katara took in a sharp breath before she smiled brightly.

"That's true! You do need an heir, Zuko. Not getting any younger." She tried to joke to keep her voice from wavering. She didn't know why the thought of Zuko with another woman stung her so badly. The thought created a dull ache that made her blood feel like it slinked through her veins. But she couldn't show it. Not even for a second. Not even when his golden eyes were piercing her – looking for any sign of emotion.

This would be for the best…then we could both give this up. Then we wouldn't… Katara tried to think rationally but a gnawing phrase struck at her heart

But I'd miss him…

She took a deep breath, "Sorry. I ran up the hill to catch up to you pretty fast." She laughed, "So…who do we have in mind for Zuko?"

XxXx

It had been two months since his last visit to Kyoshi island. Since his last visit with Katara in his arms where she made him feel normal, loved, wanted. He missed the feeling of her fingertips running circles in his chest hair as they lounged on the ground, in bed, wherever they had just made love. Sometimes, right when he woke up, if he shut his eyes he could almost feel it. Sometimes he would stay in bed for hours after waking and ruminate on their time together. But then the bitter taste came to his mouth when she so casually went up to Kyoshi warriors introducing him as a prospective date.

He couldn't take it. The woman he loved so desperately it made his skin burn…trying to pawn him off. He had made an excuse to leave that night citing urgent business he had to return to. She had looked at him with a soft smile and given him a hug right after Sokka. Her arms wrapped around her stomach as she turned away from his travel-balloon even before he had taken off. He had watched her until she was out of sight, and she hadn't once turned around to watch him go.

But now, while eating lunch with his Uncle in the garden he had received a carrier hawk with a blue-insignia scroll. A broad arrow facing down as the wax seal. Breaking it Zuko's brows furrowed.

"What's wrong, Nephew?" Iroh asked, setting down his tea cup.

"I'm invited to a party on Kyoshi island…with the avatar and the rest of our friends. Next Friday."

"You should go." Iroh smiled brightly, "It will be fun to have everyone together again."

"It will…I'm just wondering what this could be about…" Zuko said pensively, "It's not like Aang to take time off for anything…let alone a party."

"Hello pot, meet kettle," Iroh laughed, "Neither do you, Zuko. You need your rest. This is why you burn out so often."

Zuko looked at his aging uncle and nodded, "You're right. I'll go. Don't worry." He said with a smile. "Let me pour you another cup of tea."

"Oh yes, please. This peach tea you brought from Kyoshi island truly is delicious. You will have to give Katara my thanks."

"I'll do that, Uncle."

And so he did. Uncle and Nephew sitting together finishing a cup of tea with the sound of turtle-ducks quacking around the lake. But Zuko's heart wouldn't stop thundering in his ears.

XxXx

Katara paced nervously as the party was being set up. Suki and the other warriors were putting up banisters and cleaning around the Avatar's estates for them. Even though it wouldn't be a large gathering, they wanted to make sure everything was perfect for the avatar and his wife.

"What's wrong?" Aang smiled, leaning against the doorframe as he looked in at his wife pacing the formal living room.

"Nothing. Nothing."

"I know. You don't like the attention. But you will get used to it." He came over, putting an arm on her lower back and giving her a kiss. She felt his beard bristle her chin during their kiss. She rested a hand on his chest and felt his heart beating under her fingertips. His body…it was so different than Zuko's. Even their heartbeats. With Aang his heartbeat was gentle, calm, like the wind. Zuko's heart beat with a ferocity that must be spurred by his firebending nature. And while Aang's skin was always cool to the touch and welcoming – Zuko's was warm and unforgettable.

"What are you thinking about?" Aang asked.

"Oh nothing. Just…we haven't seen Toph and Zuko in a long time…" She was quickly building into a ramble – kicking herself for her thoughts, "I mean. The three of us live on Kyoshi island so we see each other a lot. But Toph has her school and Zuko is the Fire Lord…so…"

Aang laughed, "Calm calm." He soothed.

As night fell and the lights in the courtyard were lit the festivities began. There were people from their travels during the hundred years war mingling – Haru, Jet, Teo – having small glasses of wine and fingerfoods. Sokka was standing comfortably next to Suki when he felt the ground rumbling. In the distance he saw Toph using her earthbending to make the ground below her into an elaborate slide bringing her towards the party.

"Showy as always," He laughed and ran out to where she stopped, "Hey Toph! Long time no see!"

"Who's seein'?" She laughed, pointing to her eyes causing Sokka's face to drop slightly.

"Why do you always have to do that?" He said softly, but her laugh was infectious and he ultimately began chuckling along with her. Walking next to her into the party they walked to the star couple.

"Hey Twinkletoes," Toph said towards Aang, punching him on the arm eliciting an 'ow!' "It's been a while."

"It sure has, Toph. About two years since I've seen you."

"Well. You've been busy saving the worlds many small fires. I've been busy making a police force of metal-benders."

They reminisced briefly before Toph paused, "Everyone is here except…"

"Zuko sent his reply. He will be here…" Aang said with a bright smile. Immediately Katara felt a soft wind of shame brush her cheeks at his cheerful demeanor.

Oh right…they're best friends... Of course he is looking forward to seeing him…while I…

Toph raised her eyebrows wondering why Katara's heart was beating quicker and her mood seeming to change to a deep, radiating sadness. She would pull her aside later and have girl-talk.

Looking up Katara was the first to see. A large Fire Nation balloon with the black flame on the side.

Zuko…

She inhaled sharply as she saw his figure over the railing. Even from this distance she could feel his cold golden eyes pinning her down. In one fluid motion Zuko flipped from the edge of his balloon and used his firebending to gently lower himself down to the Earth. From there, she watched anxiously as he walked towards the party. His hair done up in the topknot, his long crimson robe, and the insignia of the Fire Lord crown glowing faintly in the torchlight. He was unmistakably royalty.

"There's Mr. Fancy," Aang laughed as he airbended out of his excitement over to his friend. Flying over he clamped his arms around Zuko in a hug. Pulling away they smiled at one another – albeit Zuko had a much more cautious smile.

"It's good to see you again, Aang." Zuko said, and surprised even himself by meaning it earnestly.

"It's good to see you too, buddy. It's been too long."

"It has." Zuko chuckled, "Uncle sends his regards but he couldn't come. The Jasmine Dragon needs someone to watch over it…and he has some Fire Nation duties to attend to."

"Completely understand. Although, I can't believe he didn't retire. He's so old." Aang whispered the last part, making Zuko laugh. Toph turned her head in disbelief.

"Did Zuko just…laugh?" She asked astonished.

"It's rare, but it happens." Sokka nodded, "It's like getting an extra chicken dumpling in your combo meal."

"Food. That's all you ever think about." Suki elbowed Sokka gently.

When Zuko approached the group he gave a small bow of his head to his friends. It wasn't customary for the Fire Lord to bow to anyone; but these were his friends and he would show them the respect they deserved for such a feat. But when his head inclined his eyes met with Katara's and took his breath away for a second. His heart beat quicker for a second before he tore his eyes from hers.

Very interesting…Toph rubbed her chin quietly as she noted both of the accelerated heart rates. This would need some police investigation…well…not police police…just her.

"Well…shall we begin?" Aang looked at Katara who only nodded. To Toph it felt like the young waterbending woman was about to have a heart attack. Aang pulled her away a few steps and created a small Earth pedestal where they were standing. The crowd began to quiet and direct their attention to them.

"Ladiiiiies and Gentlement!" Aang said excitedly, hooking his arm around Katara, "We would like to make a very important announcement."

At this moment Katara looked down and away from Aang's chiseled jaw and down towards Zuko. The torch light played with shadows across his features, illuminating both his regular eye and the one that had been permanently slightly closed by the scar. His lips were opened every so slightly and she saw the nervousness in his face. She swallowed and put a hand on Aang's arm. She braced herself for whatever face Zuko was about to make.

"Katara and I are going to be having a baby!"

XxXx

A/N: Ooh, cliffhanger.

I'm sorry this isn't my normal level of quality. I'm usually much better at writing than this but I have been out of practice.
PLEASE let me know what you think 😊!