Hey guys! Have you noticed that I began writing in PoV's. I did it to portray their inner thoughts much better. Correction for Chapter 7. It's been 3 months since they met. They met at the first week of July. Then two months of practicing for the regionals They started the regionals in the first week of September and ended in the last Sunday of September. The year is 2021.Another correction, One part of that chapter states Ryuugi's PoV. It's supposed to be Zen's PoV I got the character's mixed up hehe.
September 26, 2020
6:00pm
Zen's PoV
Somehow after my practice we will be going to The Downtown for a celebration. I wore with some black, white, and gray mid cut rubbershoes. Then my black jogger cargo pants. I wore a black hoodie and top it off with a white denim jacket. I told them that I'll meet them at the entrance at 7pm. My bangs were getting longer so I had it cut by the barber near my uncle's shop earlier. It wasn't really short it was just above my brows but still covered my forehead. My hair before already reached my nose and a little bit it would reach my mouth. I grabbed my hat and put it on before I go out. Should I drive my motor or should I just take the bus? I should take the bus I might drink later anyway.
I exited our campus and stopped by to buy a crepe, what? I'm craving for it and I wasn't really in a rush since it was just 6:15pm and going there by bus only takes 15-30mins depends on the traffic. This crepe is amazing I should bring the others there next time. I finished my crepe and throw the paper at the bin and wait for the bus to arrive. bzzt bzzt. I grabbed my phone and saw a message from Katara.
"Hey Zen, wer r u?"
I started to type.
'Otw, just waiting 4 the buzzzzzz'
bzzt bzzt
"Really? buzzzz??" with an emoji of rolling eyes
"Yes really. Y have a prob with it??" I wrote with an angry emoji.
bzzt bzzt
"Oh so you're giving me the angry emoji now huh?"
I could feel she was crossing her arms when typing that. I typed again
"Nah, not really. this is more like it." I put a teary eyed emoji. It was cute and if she didn't like that, oh were going to have a talk later.
bzzt bzzt
"Haha! very funny Zen and I do admit it's kinda cute"
Gotcha! I began to type
"Gtg buzzzz is already here. See u later!"
I got up and entered the bus. I sat beside the window and saw a text from Katara
'take care okay?' A worrywart, I shook my head and smiled then shoved my phone at my pocket.
6:55pm I've arrived at The Downtown. I saw the gang waiting for me at the entrance. "There's Zen!" Aang pointed at me. "A hat huh, trying something different SleepyAce?" Toph suddenly grabbed my hat which revealed my shortened hair. They stared at me like they just saw a new species of an animal. "Wow, This is refreshing.." Suki blurted. "I know right, is that really you buddy?" Sokka said still looking at me. Katara stepped in front of me and saw what she wore. She faced the others to stop them but I didn't mind that. What I minded was what she wore. She also wore black and white what a coincidence. It made me smile. She was wearing a jogger cargo pants as well and black boots and her top made my eyes go widened. It was a black halter top, crop top that completely covered her chest but revealed her curves and the back. "Wow.." I blurted out. I covered my mouth Katara turned at me which made me gulp.
I looked away from her because I feel my cheeks burning up whenever I saw her. I could see her tilt her head in my peripheral view. "Wow?" She asks. "I uhh, I mean ahh You look beautiful.." I struggled to let out the words that I stuttered. I looked away for the second time because I felt my blood rushing to my cheeks.
September 26, 2021
7:03pm
Katara's PoV
The second I saw Zen's outfit made my heartbeat race. Then we had the same pants but mine was white while his was black. Then the moment when Toph removed his hat, it made me just wanna say how handsome he was. He had longer hair earlier. It reached his nose and covered his forehead though we would see it because it was parted at one side but this haircut was much shorter but doesn't hide his forehead much as the other. It was still parted at one part but Suki was right it was really refreshing to see. I snapped at my thoughts and stood infront of Zen then turned back to stop the others gushing at him. "You guys should head in now." I rolled my eyes towards them especially my brother but Suki grabbed and pushed him inside The Downtown while Aang was the one who pulled Toph. Then I heard him say Wow it was weak but I heard it loud and clear.
"Wow?" Did he just say that? At me? He was clearly looking at me "I uhh, I mean ahh" He was stuttering that's new like his hair. I like his old hairstyle but I also like this hairstyle it brings out the shape of his sharp eyes. "You look beautiful.." I blinked and think if I heard it right. He looked away again. Did he told me I'm beautiful? I felt my cheeks heating up. I looked down. Still feeling shy and I know later Suki is gonna interview me about me and Zen. "Katara?" My smiling face turned into frown when I heard that voice. "Hey Jet.." I moved beside Zen then felt him flinched. I looked up at him. He doesn't really like Jett I swear I could hear his thoughts saying 'Douche' a thousand times. "You made it" Jet held me gently at my arms that it made me shudder. Zen pulled me towards his other side then held my wrist near him like he was holding something fragile. Jett glared at him looking slightly up. Zen was a bit taller than Jet.
Zen told me his height is about 5'9 while Jet was about 5'7. "What, Dweeb?" Jet emphasized the dweeb part I just rolled my eyes and held Zen's arm gently, knowing him he would avoid fighting at any cost but this is to make sure he doesn't. Zen was still looking at Jet with his death glare. It was pretty scary considering he has sharp eyes. Jet was beggining to hesitate. Zen still looked at him at the eyes and took a step closer to him. I pulled him back gently I was getting scared at this point "Zen.." I felt his thumb rubbing my hand telling me not to worry. His touch was still gentle.
"Wh-What you weirdo!" Jet was losing his composure. Then a hand suddenly touched his shoulder "WBWAYAKA!" I tightened my grip to Zen."WAHHHHHHH!" Jet stumbled down and ran inside The Downtown. Suddenly Zen and a masked person laughed. "We still got it Buddy!" Zen said to the guy in the mask. The guy removed his mask and it was Nate? "Of course we do man!" Zen looked at me "You okay?" He asked me gently then removed his hand from my wrist. He removed his denim jacket and placed it on me then held me into a hug "Sorry, we scared you, didn't we?" I didn't know I was breathing heavy and shaking until he hugged me. I slightly nodded, Zen was very gentle trying not to scare me more. Moments later I felt myself ease up. He felt it too and pulled away. He looked at me and held my hand "I'm sorry Katara" His deep green eyes they were looking at me with sincerity. "It's okay Zen." I smiled at him then tightened my hold at his hands. "I just thought you were going to punch him when you stepped closer at him" I felt his hands at my cheek "I won't do that. I know how much you hate people getting hurt and people hurting them." I know you wouldn't "Promise?"
I held out my pinky finger at him. He chuckled "You know I can't promise that. What would happened if I need to defend myself?" I pouted at him "You know what I meant!" He pinched my cheeks "I promise" He intertwined his pinky with mine. I smiled at him "Come on let's go in" I was pulling him in The Downtown. "See you next time Nate!" He waved at his friend goodbye.
It's much rowdier tonight than the last time we went here. Why though? I was looking for the others. I hope they catch a table. "Zen! Katara!" I heard my brother's voice. As much as I want to hold his wonderful big hands I had to let go of it because of my brother. If he knew he would do everything so me and Zen wouldn't see each other, even as friends!
Zen's PoV
I whimpered as soon as she let go of my hand. I know I've decided that I'm not interested in dating but whenever guys comes her way, I would get really irritated. Even the thought of it makes me irritated. This is freaking hard. I sat beside Katara since it was the only available seat. Sokka warned me about it when we went to I don't remember what restaurant is that. "You okay?" Katara asked me. Why wouldn't I anyway? "yeah, why?" She ordered a drink from the waiter "Well you look like constipated" I raised my brow at her "When have I ever looked like that and what does that even look like?" She's pointing at her temple at her head "Now and the face you're making a while ago" She smiled at me. I laughed at her antics "Very funny Katara very funny." She had this proud smile whenever she got me laughing or when she tease me. I can't say I'm not fond of it. It's really appealing.
Hours later after The Freedom Fighters are done with their performance. Jet sat at our table and it was beside Katara. I felt her tense up when he got beside her. "So Katara, I was thinking." He starts off with that. I know just where this is going. "Don't think." I muttered while having my drink. I didn't think he heard it but he did. You know? I should really apply for a whisper lessons. I could see the gang glaring at him though while Jet looked at me glaring and there I was, just sitting and enjoying my drink. I felt Katara getting closer to me. I would really enjoy it if she wasn't tense up because of Jet.
I leaned over to her ear "Do you want to swap seats with me?" I can see her thinking. If we swap seats there is goinh to be a fight. I placed my hand on top of hers below the table. "I won't, Okay? I'll be a good boy" I smiled at her. Then she nodded. I stood up and let her take my seat while I sat at her seat. "Why are you the one there?" He is pretty furious when I changed seats with Katara. I smirked at him. I felt Katara grabbing my arm as it was trying to stop me. I wouldn't, I'm enjoying pissing this douche off anyway. Much better than punching his face. "Why are you here, Jet?" Sokka was the one who asked the guy. "I'm just here to talk to Katara, easy" Zuko was glaring at the guy, well ofcourse Jet is dating his sister and Zuko of course will get mad because why would Jet be looking for Katara and wanted to talk. He's her ex anyway.
"Jet baby, what are you doing here with these bozos?" It was the girl that I bumped into and Zuko's sister. I heard Jet clicked his tongue. "Nothing babe" I'm trying so hard not to tell her about him chasing Katara. "Look at this, it's the one I bumped into months ago." I noticed Katara shifted a little after Zuko's sister told me that. "Yeah, Hey... Azure?" She was eyeing me from my seat. I really didn't get her name. "It's Azula, Hottie" Hottie? really? what's up with that. I stared at her blankly after she called me hottie. I don't know if she was referring to me or my outfit. It was all black apart from my shoes but it's a bit of black too. I raised both of my hands "Okay okay Azula" I shrugged then heard Jet snicker "Really babe? this one a hottie?" Azula rolled her eyes "Much better than your mop hair and toothpick in your mouth." She sighed as she took a seat that squeezed in between me and Jet. Katara pulled me closer to her. I really like it feels like she's protective of me.
"What are you two even doing here?" Suki growled which made me look at her. "Relax, we're not here for you bozos, I'm here for my boyfriend and this hottie" Again with the hottie? I furrowed. I don't really like the stares that's been happening. "We don't want you here" Toph wasn't hiding her sourness at Azula. "You should really go." Aang was the one who told her that. It made Azula furrow her brows at the guy. I happened to look at my watch and it was already 11pm. It was already late since we have classes tomorrow. Azula was staring at me and I could seriously feel like she's touching ever inch of me. It seriously made me shudder to my bones. "Seriously? Azula you have a boyfriend why would you want Zen for?" Zuko asked her little sister. "Oh hey there big brother I thought you went mute because I hadn't heard you ever since I came here at you table." Zuko glared at her. Somehow everyone's glaring. "Should I glare too?" They looked at me with confused eyes. "I said that out loud, didn't I?" and they all nodded.I felt myself being embarrassed at the moment. "I'm gonna go drink at the bar" And stood up and got on my way.
I stopped midway on my way to the bar. I should get Katara, she wouldn't feel comfortable with Jet right there. I turned back and saw her and a guy hitting on her. I grabbed her arm "Come on, let's go" I looked at the guy. I was really staring him. I just want to say something but I can't because Katara isn't my girlfriend so I can't tell him she's mine. I don't want to tell him I'm her brother. I suddenly felt a lips on my cheeks which made me look at her clinging on my arm. "Sorry, but we should go" We walked away from the guy but I was still in dazed touching where she kissed me. "Sorry, I told him I had a boyfriend and you came at the right time" I snapped out of it. So that's why. I do admit I was hoping for more. "Good thing it wasn't Jet" I snickered then she playfully smack my arm "thanks for always being there" I raised a brow "What? for switching you from left to right and right to left? We could switch seats if you want to." I chuckled. She giggled at me. Have I ever told you guys how beautiful she is when she giggles.
"You know, this reminds me when we first met you." Katara mentioned it which made me recall it too. "I was seating here while you were there. We talked about a bunch of stuff and clearly Jet's a douche" She shook her head smiling "We would have our private conversation with just the two of us." I told her brushing up my hair. "You shouldn't really do that" Katara was shaking her head. "What? brushing my hair up?" She nodded with a disagreement expression. "Why? I've been doing that since a long time." I crossed my arm. Why would she tell me this. Everyday every hour there would be a time I would brush my hair. It became a habit. "You look like a playboy" Oh I see where this is going.
I pouted at her "I'm very offended Katara. I've thought you knew me better but clearly you don't." I could see she was trying hard not to laugh. And I'm sure I'm the same. We looked at each other again then burst into laughter. "This is fun" She took a sip at her drink while I leaned back at the counter. "Yeah, this is fun." I closed my eyes and sip at my drink.
October 6, 2021
Ms. Rui's Classroom
Zen's PoV
"Good morning Zen, good job on making it" I was panting after I slammed the door open "I'm sorry for slamming the-" I took a deep breath "the door and being almost late, Coach was persistent I remember everything he said today and I know I'd forget every details except for the main parts which is okay. I guess." I took a lot of deep breaths just to calm down. Ms. Rui looked at me amusingly, she's my favourite teacher. She's strict but considerate and what's more she's a lot of fun. "That's okay, now take your seat" I looked at the class and saw Genesis waving her hand and signaling she wants to talk about it now. I nodded at her and went straigh up to her. "Not seating next to Katara today, Zen?" I placed my bag at the table "Hm. Nope, not today" I answered Ms. Rui before I sit down. I saw her rose her brows at me but decided to start the lesson.
Katara's PoV
Zen told me last night that I shouldn't wait for him tomorrow because his Coach wanted to talk to him before classes. Me and Suki arrived not particularly early and not late at the classroom. We sat beside each other and waited for the rest of the class to arrive. Zen was still missing, I think he is being chewed by his Coach. After a few minutes Ms. Rui arrived and once again Zen is late. This will be worth a tease for later. A few seconds after Ms. Rui arrived Zen suddenly slammed the door. He was really breathing fast. His hand was at his legs then the other one was raised to signal wait. This is more worthwhile, I mean me and Suki is already laughing in our seats for his another grand entrance. I didn't heard what Ms. Rui and Zen was saying but I saw him going up and I was totally expecting him to sit here beside me. Instead he sat beside Genesis. "Not seating next to Katara today, Zen?" I blushed at Ms. Rui's statement well I guess it's because Zen sat beside me everytime. He continued and placed his bag at the table "Hm. Nope, not today" Then he sat next to Genesis. With that Ms. Rui started the discussion
It was weird not having Zen beside me during Ms. Rui's class. I got used to having him here with his head down sleeping or sometimes just doodling. he would sometimes distract me and I would glare at him and he would immediately pout. There are times when he is diligently listening to the discussion and I would find him really attractive. His looks were like when he is playing soccer seriously. He would have a serious look at his face. Genesis was the soccer captain's Girlfriend and maybe Zen is just talking to her about soccer. "Are you serious?!" Genesis shouted and was standing up at her seat. Zen was snickering "I was just kidding" Now he is laughing. Genesis was hitting his arm "Don't do that" She sat down pouting but Zen came closer to her "I'm sorry okay" He was still snickering. Ms. Rui gave them first warning and continued with her discussion.
"You do know you're glaring at them" Suki's voice made me jump. "It's none of my business anyway. It's not like Zen and I had something between us. We're just..." I trailed off a moment before continuing "..Friends" It hurts but it was true. We were nothing more than just friends. He is just really gentle and caring that I mistakenly thought he liked me too. I looked back at them and saw they were having a good time. I really shouldn't be used to Zen beside me.
Zen's PoV
Genesis's eyes were fixated at me. Itching for the news that the coach gave me. "So??" Yep still as impatient as ever. Cap' why is your girl so impatient? I glanced to where Katara was and I see that she doesn't mind. The classroom has 2 sides, left where I'm sitting and then the right where Katara and Suki is sitting. It has long wide tables with 8 rows. I'm at row 7 while Katara and Suki was at Row 5. So lucky I could look at her from afar without getting caught. I always watch her from close up but she would always smack my face with her notebook and tell me to listen. But I like it anyway. It feels kinda odd not seating besjde her and distracting her.
"Come on Zen tell me" Oh right my seatmate is dying. "Well the Coach told me that you're fired from being our manager." I told her with a serious face. She completely gone white and stood up from her seat "Are you Serious?!" I couldn't stop my laugh "I'm just kidding" But it burst out. She was hitting me with a notebook but I couldn't really stop my laugh. "don't do that" She pouted and I came closer to apologize. Ms. Rui suddenly called our attention and gabe us the first warning. I glanced to Katara again and I saw looking at me but she turned away. Then I looked at Genesis who's itching for the news. "Well Coach told me to tell you that you might become the next head manager which means more time with cap and more work, Goodluck" She gleamed "Really?" Genesis was trying to suppress her excitement because we are in class but suddenly she hugged me and I hug back.
We pulled back after a second. "Zen, please come to the board and answer number 3" Ms. Rui called me up. I walk towards the board and grabbed the chalk. "Mind telling me who it is that you like?" Ms Rui whispered at me smirking. Wait was she speculating that I like Genesis? I knew she knows that I like Katara but Genesis really? "You know who I like." She just looked at me in an unbelievable way so I explained why I sat with Genesis and what was my relationship with her. Then I answered what was on the board.
On the way back to my chair I heard the others saying
'Can't believe Genesis, first she hog Hatsuki now Zen'
Then a boy said
'Zen is a player you should stop liking him'
then another girl said
'Isn't she embarrassed? Cheating on Hatsuki'
'I don't like Katara for hogging Zen but I mostly don't like Genesis for hogging two guys at soccer team.'
I pull my chair "People is really misunderstanding our relationship, ain't they!" Before I got to sit Genesis shouted to gather the attention of the class. Hopefully Ms. Rui won't get mad. i looked over first then saw her with amusing smile. Okay permission granted. "You know how humans are. They see one side and spectulate in everything." I shrugged and said it loud enough for the whole class to hear. I notice all of them were looking at both of us even Katara and Suki did.
"They don't know a thing about us" Genesis said in a man's voice. Oh we're doing that huh. Alright "Oh baby, they're so cruel" I said dramatically in a high-pitched voice then fell in the arms of Genesis. After a moment the both of us burst in laughter. "You really shouldn't do the man's voice" I shook my head "You shouldn't do the female's voice either. Never do that again?" I nodded "Agreed. Let's come up with a better plan next time."
"Don't you know that she's yojr captain's girlfriend? How could you date someone who already has a boyfriend??" The man behind me asked me. Date her? I glanced at Genesis. Nope definitely not. I had a disgusted face. I shook my head and turned around. "Why the heck would I date my cousin?" Well whenever I saw her I always see Uncle Jun. Just the thought of it makes me wanna puke. I admjt she's pretty but no she's my goddamn cousin.
"COUSIN??" the class said in unison and me and gen just look at each other shaking our head. I sighed and raised my hand "Ms. Rui can I change my seat? sitting next to Gen now makes me uncomfortable knowing my classmates thought we're dating" She just laughed "Go ahead". I grabbed my bag and go to my usual seat which was beside Katara. I sat down and finally I could relax. Feels like home. I glanced at her and tell she was still shock that me and Gen were cousins. "I'll explain later" She just nodded at me
Katara's PoV
Zen and Genesis are cousins. I was relieved when he said that but is was still shocking for some reason. Zen said he would explain it, he was standing next to me and waiting for me to finish packing up my stuff. Suki on the other hand ran to the hockey stadium since Sokka and Zuko were practicing. Fortunately for her she doesn't have classes 10am-1:30pm while me and Zen has classes with Mr. Kien. Me and Zen has 6 same classes
Mr. Lorenzo - Literature
Ms. Rui - Calculus/Homeroom
Mr. Kien - PE
Mrs. Harrison - History
Ms. Jamie - Physics
Ms. Cana - Foreign Language
Somehow we have foreign language here in College. The only available slots were at the Japanese class. For Zen he told me he just picked it because it was a little easier since he knew a bit of the language. That's why we are at the same class. "Let's go?" I asked him then he nodded.
"So you and Genesis are cousins, that's new" He walks beside me with his hands in his pockets "Her dad is Uncle Jun, Uncle Jun divorced Aunt Maya just a year ago and Gen lives with her mother. That's why you don't see her at the shop." They must have a problem. "Uncle Jun is a bit protective about her daughter that's why Gen doesn't like always going there but she goes there from time to time." Zen continued to explain. Somehow I could see that. "She's one of the reason why I got out of my Father's house."
I looked at him "Are you okay?" He looked at me and smiled a little "She was like the messenger between me and Uncle. It was slow but progressive so yeah. i have great respect for her." I nodded. If it wasn't for Genesis then Zen wouldn't be here smiling. But at his Father's home getting beaten up. "One question does your aunt and uncle got divorced because of.." He raised his brow at me "Nah, They got divorced because they got tired of being tied together. They are in great terms. They would go on dates with each other have one night stand then leave with no strings attached just how they like. They could date anyone they want. But Somehow I know they would get tired living like that and settle down once and for all" He shrugged. We sat beside each other. Mr. Kien told us to meet him here because he has an announcement to make.
"Good morning class. For this term our class is about-" He was doing the drum roll thing at his fingers "Swimming! since the weather is right not to cold and not too hot." I would be jumping here if he told us this about last term. It's already October and I know it'll be freezing! "Does the swimming pool has heater?" Zen raised his hand and just asked that. Typical Zen. I just shook my head. "Why the heater Zen. Clean the pool after class." Mr. Kien was smiling but I could feel his irritation. While Zen just shrugged. Sometimes I feel Zen doesn't really care about consequences or he's just really dense about this. We got up and changed at the Locker. Of course me and Zen parted ways.
I was still changing when the other girls that finished came back running "You girls should hurry up! Zen is shirtless!" They squealed which made my ears hurt. I've seen him shirtless a bunch of times but still was caught off guard. He had great body and his shoulder was wide. I finished changing up and got out to the pool. There I saw Zen with the other guys talking at the side of the pool. His presence is very strong that every person that walk here would see him immediately. "Katara!" It was Kayla and Jess, a friend of mine at the Swimming team. "Hey guys! I didn't noticed you here" I came over to them "Damn Katara how is it that you look good in everything you wear?" We sat at the side of the pool just across Zen's group. I would take glance at him every other minute passed.
Zen's PoV
I was hoping Katara would back me up later but she just shook her head and only I got in trouble. I sat down beside the other guys "So Zen, who do you think has the sexiest body here in our class?" It would be Katara but obviously I won't tell them that. I still haven't seen Katara since we parted ways earlier. I scoffed "Me of course" I told them smirking, well they didn't tell if it's a guy or a girl but regarding that question my answer would always be Katara in my mind. "Who's the sexiest girl in our class?" They actually emphasized the girl in their sentence. I laughed at them, they just don't know when to stop do they? I sighed and saw Katara talking with two girls. We were wearing our own swimsuits since our teacher informed us to bring it today. The moment I laid my eyes on Katara I knew that the guys would come over to her. I glance at the guys who went silent. I furrowed at the thought they were looking at Katara. I could really punch them here and now but I didn't. I walked back and run towards the pool and jumped like a canon ball. Just like that and the guys where wet.
"Zen!" The were getting angry at me "What? we're having swimming class and why the hell is no one swimming!" I look towards Katara and saw she also got wet, I laughed at her "I'll get you next time Zen" She was crossing her arms. "Zen is right, Why aren't anyone swimming except for him?" Mr. Kien walks at the lifeguard chair and relaxed. As soon as we're in the clear I grabbed Katara's arm and pulled her in the pool. "Kyah!" She composed her self "So that's how you want to play it huh" She splashed me some water and I did the same to her. While the others were jumping in the pool. The first hour has ended and Mr. Kien said we're gonna have racing freestyle. First was the guys then next was the girls. I went second at my race since one of my classmate was a champion in swimming team. What I'm a soccer maniac not a swimming maniac I just do swimming for my training. Next was the girls turn and I have no doubt that Katara would win this one. She's the ace of the swimming team anyway.
They started and Katara's start had a huge lead but soon the two other members started catching up to her. Though she wasn't honna give in so easily. She reached the end and flipped under water and kicked the wall to give boost. She was at the center when I saw her raised her hand as she struggles to swim. I dived in the water and rushed to her. She was sinking and out of breath. I grabbed her hand when it was within my reach and she was unconscious when we got out of the water. Mr. Kien knew CPR after a few push she coughed the water out of her lungs.
"You okay?" I said as I help her sit up and brushed my hair back. She just nodded catching her breath. I wasn't gonna waste a second to get her if she's in trouble. I sat beside her and I relaxed a bit. Her drowning made me terrified good thing I could move my legs just in time. "What happened? cramps or sprain?" The guy who was also a member of the swimming asked. "Sprain" Katara says weakly. I took a look at her ankle but the guy just shoved me away. "Give me some space, I know this better than you." Talk about attitude. I was still breathing heavily I'm not sure if it's because of swimming or because Katara almost drowned. I just let it go and grabbed my towel and gave it to her friend Jess to hand it to her. I got in the lockers to get the school towel and dried myself with that. I wore a white shirt to keep me from freezing here.
15 minutes till lunch. I sat down at the floor and used the locker for me to lean my back. Seeing her almost drown there frightened me. I know she's okay now but what if we were too late. I'm really overthinking this, I was just really scared. When I sat next to her, she was just there frozen. I stayed there for minutes till I heard the door opened. "Zen Mr. Kien said he wants to talk with you" Great, what did I do now. I nodded and stood up. I got out of the locker room and saw that coach was the only one left at the swimming. "You okay, Zen?" I turned to him "Yes sir" He nodded. "You know you could clean the pool tomorrow after class." He was being considerate but I'd likely to do it now rather than tomorrow. "I'll just do it now" He was looking at me unsure what to say "Here are the keys for the storage. After you're done cleaning give it back to me later or tomorrow." I nodded. I felt his hand on my shoulder "Thank you for saving Katara, Zen" I shook my head "No need to thank me Mr. Kien" I walk towards the storage room and grabbed what I needed to clean the pool.
After cleaning the pool I got changed then returned the Key to Mr. Kien. I walked back to the dorm and washed up. It was 12:45pm and at 1:30pm I had classes. I only have Katara as my classmate in morning classes while the rest doesn't but sometimes I would walk her asher classrooms. I ride my motorcycle and got out of the campus to eat at Ichi Ichi Ramen. 1:15pm I got back to the campus to walk with Katara on the way to her class but I saw the guy who shoved me earlier helping her walk. I parked my motorcycle at the nearby parking and ran towards them.
But as I got nearer I saw her smiling at the guy. I sighed and ride my motorcycle and made it to the outside parking near the building where my class is gonna start at 10 minutes. The rest of the class, I just looked outside the window and spaced out. After few hours of class I received a message from the gang
"Dinner at beefs and pipes?"
The others agreed to it but I doubt I have enough energy to join them or maybe I was just avoiding Katara. I started typing.
"I'll pass."
bzzt bzzt
"are u okay?" It was Katara. She message me in private message.
"Yep" I typed back
"Okay, Harrold will join us. You know the guy who saved me earlier" My eyes widened at what she send me. Saved her? I was the one
who saved her. Oh great Harrold why would you lie about that. I sighed and just closed my phone. I didn't want to reply after that. I just ordered chinese food to eat here at the dorm. A few moments later I heard a knock at the door. It must be the delivery. I opened the door "Katara? and... Harrold. I sighed at them "What are you doing here?" unable to suppress my sourness against them. "I got worried since you didn't text back." She was still clinging on Harrold. "Now you see that I'm fine. So go and enjoy your night Harrold" My irritation was spilling out. I could see her getting mad "What is your problem!" I shrugged "Just leave me alone" My voice turned into a growl. She scoffed at me angrily "Sure! If that's what you want then!" She shut the door loudly.
I slumped at the couach of our room. Our room doesn't really only contain beds and desk and Shower room. It has a 2 steps of stairs and a living room and a tiny dining room. I closed my eyes and felt myself getting sleepy. Then another knock at my door I stood up and answered it. I payed for it and chugged it all down. After 30 minutes I sleep even though it was still 7pm.
October 7, 2021 ; 6am
Z and Z's room
Zen's PoV
It's so early and I couldn't sleep anymore. I saw Zuko still sleeping. i got down my bed and washed up. I wore my soccer attire and cleats. I also wore Jacket since it's a bit cold outside. I got to the field and grabbed one ball. I wore my bluetooth earphones then I warmed up first before playing. For hours I've been practicing different kinds of tricks and shots. I also practiced my ball handling tried to make it precise. I only had 2 afternoon classes so it morning is free up. I don't even know what time it was until I heard the lunch bell from my Coach. "Zen catch" I caught the lunch box he gave me. I looked at him "What's this?" He crossed his arms "It's lunch kiddo. It's already 12pm. When is your class anyway?" No way it's already 12pm. "I got class 4pm-6pm" He nodded "Okay eat that and rest up. Remember resting is as important as practicing" I nodded "Thanks Coach"
I sat at the bleachers and ate the lunch my Coach gave me. I smiled, this is totally from uncle, he would always give me the right amount of spice and knew I didn't like cheese and bellpepper I know I'm weird. I just don't like it. After resting up I continued to practice. At one time Suki told me we're gonna have dinner at Lillian's and I agreed to it. From time to time I would see the gang waving at me and i would see Katara still clinging on Harrold for support. I was totally ignoring her and only waved back at the others. it was pretty childish of me to do that I just feel so pissed when I see them together. It was 2:30pm when I sat down the field to rest. I stretched my body and lay down. I could feel myself getting drowsy but I remembered I have classes.
October 7, 2021 ; 8am
In front of the girl's dorm
Katara's PoV
I didn't really enjoyed last night's dinner after having a fight with Zen. Suki acted as my support, she is really strong despite her appearance. I hear panting and I hoped it was Zen. "Oh hey Harrold" I couldn't hide the disappointment in my voice. I was hoping Zen and I would reconcile. I actually wanted him to support me so I could cling on him. Though Harrold was the one who saved me from drowning and i was very thankful for him. I wonder if Zen jumped at the pool to save me. His hair was wet when he asked me if I was okay. "Hey Zen!" Suki shouted which made me realize we were beside the field. I saw him waved at Suki and then back to practicing before I could wave at him. He was covered in sweat, how long has he been out here? "So hey Katara about later tonight, would you mind going to dinner with me?" I was about to say hi to Zen until Harrold interrupted me. I looked at Suki "Can my friends join too?" I wasn't comfortable with the idea of having dinner with him alone. "Yeah sure! of course!" He excitedly say. "I'll tell Zen don't worry" Suki assured me as she ran to the field where Zen is. He nodded at her and laugh. It feels so long since I've seen him even if we were together just yesterday morning.
"He says he'll go but he'll be late since his classes ends at 6pm" Suki grabbed my arm. We walk to our class and every end of our class Harrold was there helping me. Everytime we walked beside the field Zen would totally ignore me. I know we had a fight last night but that was because he's being a jerk. I was just worried about him and there he goes irritated at me.
The night came and everyone was already here. it was 8:30pm and Zen still hasn't come. It was raining outside."Where's Zen?" Suki asked. "What if he got into an accident?" Aang said very worriedly and I was getting worried each second passed. I decided to call him but it just kept on ringing. I called and called but it was just ringing. I could feel my tears in the corner of my eyes. Until the door opened by Zen drenched in rain. "Dammit, I should've taken the bus" He said while wiping himself. I got over to him I didn't minded my sprain I was just happy he didn't get into an accident. I hugged him tightly "Why didn't you answer my calls, Idiot!!"
Zen's PoV
I know I couldn't ignore her forever. I walked inside Lillian's still drenched in the rain. It just poured out of nowhere and i had nowhere to stop over. "Dammit I should've taken the bus" I groaned. I was wiping my clothes when I felt Katara's arms wrapped around me "Why didn't you answer my calls, idiot!!" Katara was crying with her face buried in my chest. Phone? I checked my pockets and even my bag it wasn't there. "I don't have my phone. I must've forgotten it in the room" She shook her head still burried at my chest "Why would you forget something so important" She pulled her head away but her arms still remain. She must've been worried about me. I flicked her forehead "Why are you standing up alone when you still have a sprain on your ankle" She held tightly on my shirt, "Shut up, Help me walk over there" She pointed at the table where the gang and Harrold is. It was kinda far and the sprain might've gotten worse running like that.
I carried her in my arms while she was surprised. "Z-Zen I could walk! put me down!" She was embarrassed "You should really think before running like that. It hurts doesn't it? Just gold on tight." I told her while I was steadying her in my arms. She wrapped her arms around my neck. "Sorry about yesterday" She said softly as we made our way to the table. "I should be the one who's sorry. I shouldn't have lashed out on you. I know you were worried about me and I just felt pissed off for some reason. But don't get me wrong I'm not pissed off at you. It's just something I don't really wanna talk about it." I sighedand felt her tighten her hold of me "Okay, then tomorrow could you help me go to my classes?" I looked at her, "don't you have Harrold to support you?" I chuckled but she was just looking at me intently. I nodded "Sure, just text me your schedule so I know when to come." She smiled. "Thanks Zen".
I was standing with Katara on my arms when Harrold stood up and tried to take her. "Let me take her" I felt Katara flinched. I smiled at him "Nah, it's alright. She's light anyway." I walked pass him and go to the other side of the table. opposite to where Harrold sat. Suki brought a chair next to her and that's where i gently placed Katara. I glanced at Suki and she gave me a thumbs up. I chuckled and grab a seat and placed it next to Katara. I could feel Harrold glaring at me. I ignored it "You haven't eaten yet right? let's order some food" I looked at her 'Let's'? I looked at the table. "You guys haven't ate nor ordered something yet??" They nodded "We wanted to wait for you" Zuko told me. "Considering you didn't join us last night and have been practicing crazy since morning. We wanted to eat with you, buddy" Sokka said. "Except for the party pooper over here. He ordered already and finished eatin." Toph was pointing at Harrold "What I was hungry and you guys I beat Zen at swimming class yesterday" The others groaned "You already said that yesterday" Aang groaned as he set his head on the table. Harrold pouted "Well, Can I join your gang?"
"Harrold, I really appreciate that you saved me yesterday at the pool" Katara was now the one speaking. "Hey you owed me one and with me joining your gang means you have 2 aces of the swimming team" Wow, what a load of bullshitness. I sighed "I'm really getting hungry , I haven't eaten since 12pm." I stood up "You guys want anything? I'm gonna order" I put my bad at the chair in case Harrold decided to sit beside Katara. They told me their orders and I got to the counter. Once I got all the order i placed it at the table and one by one took what they hard ordered. I placed Katara's order in front of her. She looks at me. "Nope, don't look at me like that Katara. Your feet was injured not your hands" She pouted "Fine. hmph" I shook my head smiling.
"What? Because Zen is so goodlooking he join your gang?" Harrold was really getting agitated. I sighed once again. "You should really stop before you get yourself hurt, big guy" I took a massive bite at my burger. Damn I was starving! "Oh says the one who got in the gang of Katara!" He slammed the table which made my drink to spill over me "Dude! I just dried that off!" Katara quickly took tissues and gave it to me. "For your information, it just happened. I didn't asked to join them nor did they asked me to join them. I got invited out by them because it was my first time here and since then I've been hanging out with them and became a part of them" I told him while wiping where my drink splashed me. Good thing I was wearing black.
"Besides Zen is cool not like you who's a try hard" Ouch! Toph doesn't really hold back her words. Harrold stood there in shock. "Then what if I date Katara would you accept me. she's a bonus. A very sexy bonus" He was grinning in a gross way. Katara was clinging on me while Suki was covering her. Everybody glared at him "Leave my sister alone bastard!" Sokka shouted. This was a private room so nobody really but us heard him shout. I felt my blood rushed "What a dirty bastard" Toph growled. "I'm sorry Katara." I was clenching my fist. I gently removed her hand at my arm and made my way towards Harrold and punched him in the face. "Zen!" I heard Katara call on me but I didn't held back my punch which made him fall at his butt. "Leave her alone or I won't go easy on you like this." He was laughing "You guys just have to accept me or else I'll still bother her" He said while wiping the blood at his mouth. I grabbed him by his collar I was about to punch him "Stop!!" Katara shouted sobbing. "Zen please.. Stop" I let go of him.
I would've let go of him if he was talking trash about me but to trash talk my friends? unacceptable. I took a deep breath and walk slowly towards Katara "Sorry for breaking my promise." I looked down. i know she was in tears and was scared to see me like that. "I just couldn't let it go, about him talking trash about you." I turned to the others "I'm sorry for losing my composure." I bowed at them. "I'm sorry for making you cry Katara." I grabbed my bag and felt a hand stopping my arm. A familiar arms wrapped around me once again. "Thank you, Zen." She told me which made me very confused. i pulled back "What do you mean?" She cupped my face "I was crying because i was the reason why you got so mad. I was the reason why you broke your promise. Yes I was scared but I know everyone of us wanted to punch him. You really didn't held back, did you?" She wipe the tears in her face then touched my fist that I used to punch him. "Well yeah, I got really angry. You guys aren't disappointed?" I look over them and they just laughed "Of course not. I would have slapped him any moment I'm given" Suki told me "I won't forgive him for harassing my sister. kudos to yo buddy for standing up for her." Sokka patted me. "I would've burn him" zuko still glaring at him. "I reaally like your punch Zen. it has a nice sound to it" She was smiling at me. "I don't like violence but I'm not disappointed in you since you did it to stand up for Katara, Zen" Aang smiled at me. I smiled at them "Thanks guys"
disclaimer: A:TLA Charaters is not mine.
Hope you guys like this chapter!! This chapter felt like 3 chapters but it was pretty fun writing it. Anyway,Don't forget to favourite and follow this story!! If you have any critics and comments please be sure to review!!