Author's note: Warning, explicit content ahead! If you are not over the age of 18 please stop reading! Enjoy the smutty goodness :)

Chapter 3:

It was a quaint downtown with a great mixture of middle class and upscale restaurants. The nightlife was buzzing with locals and a small mix of tourists alike. It seemed there was a small festival taking place in the town square a few blocks over. Zuko stopped a local asking where the nicest inn was in the area. He gave directions to a building closer to the heart of the city called the Khamal Villas. They made their way further south towards the hotel. More people populated the streets here and the air was thrumming with energy. Zuko quickly tied his mare in the inn's stables grabbing Katara's hand leading her through the entrance lobby. It was clearly a luxury hotel with a running fountain nestled between the grand marble stair case behind the receptionist's desk.

"I'd like a room for the night" Zuko stated approaching the balding desk manager. He looked at Zuko and Katara over his glasses smiling knowingly.

"Of course" he grinned "that'll be one bed correct?" Zuko nodded looking over at Katara and locking eyes with her. She bit her lip and looked down. When she heard his disapproving huff her face turned a deep dark red. Dragging his eyes from hers and returning to the inn clerk he pulled out his coin pouch. Zuko paid the inn clerk and grabbed their room keys turning to Katara.

"Just need to throw this bag in the room really quick. It has extra clothes for both of us" he explained. She nodded finding a seat in the lobby to wait.

KATARAS POV

Katara had no idea they'd be staying in an inn that night. And in one bed at that! Her pulse began to quicken at the thought of sharing a bed. Would he kiss her again like the last time? She attempted to calm her breathing as she looked around the opulent hotel, wondering how Zuko could afford such a place. When Zuko returned they walked lazily to a nearby upscale restaurant. It looked like a lot of couples were walking in and out so they decided it looked appropriate. Zuko requested they have more private seating. They were seated in the corner of one of their private rooms off of a balcony. Lucky no one was in the private room with them. Zuko pulled out her chair for her, scooting her in snugly to the table. Katara watched him closely as he took his seat across from her at the table grinning with that devilish smirk of his.

"Pretty nice place huh?" he asked. She giggled nodding her head.

"I can't believe there's something so nice this close to us" she exclaimed.

His face softened a bit.

"I can bring you back whenever you like" he said like he meant it whole heartedly. Like he'd do anything to keep her happy.

"I'd like that…" she said bashfully fluttering her eyes a bit. She noticed a small vein in his temple bulge and he bit down flexing his jaw.

"Hello, welcome to Ped I'll be your server for tonight. My name is Divya" a young petit woman with dark brown skin and darker brown eyes bowed beside their table.

"Hi" Katara greeted sweetly smiling at the other girl. Zuko looked to the girl flatly nodding his head to her in greeting.

"Can I start you out with anything?" She smiled grabbing her pen and pad.

...

Chapter 4:

KATARA'S POV

By the end of the night Katara and Zuko had eaten their fill, sampling various foods they'd both never tried before. Zuko had ordered a bottle of wine for the table which had loosened them both up considerably. Katara was no longer afraid to return her mysterious roommate's heated gazes. She thought maybe Zuko was taking this as a challenge, upping the ante with each passing minute. His staring was becoming a lot more obvious, and his speech a lot more loose. She'd lost track of all the different ways he'd called her beautiful. He was testing her. Seeing how much she could handle. Once dessert was placed on the table Katara could honestly say she was feeling the effects of the wine. She wasn't drunk but she felt alight, like every neuron in her body was buzzing at once, and that her belly was full of fire. Zuko grabbed the only spoon from the table before Katara could even react. She watched him as he smirked, digging the spoon deep into the strawberry soufflé slowly. Pulling the spoon up he held it out to her lips pursing his expectantly.

"Open up kitten" he whispered in the most vile tone. She opened her mouth before her brain even had time to catch up to the command. The juices from the strawberries glided down her throat as she closed her mouth chewing and swallowing her decadent bite. She held his gaze as if to challenge him, then she did the unthinkable. She giggled licked her lips and bit them all while staring deeply into his eyes.

"Thank you" she whispered. She could practically see his pulse quicken at his jugular, his jaw flexing in and out. He thrummed his fingers on the table once…two times, then flagged down their waitress with a lift of his hand.

"We're going to need the bill right away" he explained to her, then he looked over at Katara "we have some urgent matters to attend to".

"Sure!" their bubbly waitress replied turning away to fetch the bill. Leaning slightly over the table to be eye level with Katara, Zuko whispered lowly.

"I'm disappointed in you kitten…I thought you'd behave tonight" he said in a gravely low voice so that no one relatively near could hear him. She flushed bright red looking down and away.

"I…I forgo-" she started. He clicked his tongue

"You did that one on purpose. I know a spoiled princess when I see one…and I've been spoiling you rotten Katara". The way he was talking was making her brain turn to mush. She'd been provoking this wild animal all this time and didn't even know it. Now she was in for it. It occurred to her then that she hadn't even been getting close to the real Zuko these past months. She'd been getting a restrained, abridged version. Could she handle him unbottled? She decided she'd try her best. The waitress returned with the check, Zuko paid her right away insisting she keep the change as tip.

It was a silent stroll back to the inn. The streets had started to slow down with the activity, a few straggling people making their way home. Katara looked over to Zuko out of the corner of her eyes. She felt like she was in trouble, but in the best way. Giddy with excitement for what Zuko's warnings could have been protecting her against she looked back ahead towards the inn they were approaching. She was both scared and excited. She had made no mental plan for how far she was willing to go tonight, but she promised herself she would do what felt right. Making their way up the stairs to the room Zuko made her walk in front of him, undoubtedly for the opportunity to keep his eyes on her. Glancing behind her she caught his gaze trained on her backside like a wild polar bear dog watched a kill. Licking his lips unashamedly he motioned his head for her to keep walking. His blazé, yet commanding attitude made her want to follow every demand he placed on her. She wanted to be obedient for him…most of the time. She wagged her hips a little as she continued walking up the marble steps, giving him something more to focus on.

"Fuck…" she thought she heard him mumble under his breath. Once they made it to the room he reached around her to unlock the door. Pushing it open Katara walked into their luxury spa apartment for a room. She gasped aloud her eyes traveling from the king sized opulent green silk bed to the marble floors and walls that encompassed the room making it feel cavelike. Walking past the bed Katara found French doors opening to a private outdoor terrace which held a shower and stand alone tub. All this was nestled between a flower garden. Because it was summer these inns were popular across the Earth Kingdom.

"Zuko, it's beautiful" she gasped out turning to him. He was still standing in the door way his heated gaze trailing her every move as she explored the room. She approached him placing both of her hands on his chest.

"Why are you still standing over here?" she asked shyly. He sighed deeply closing his lids and dropping his head. Katara began to worry. Was he regretting this? Placing a hand to cup his face she tried looking him in the eyes, imploring with her gaze.

"Kat…I don't want to ruin you" he said voice catching, "you're so kind, beautiful, innocent…" he rambled. Her heart thrummed violently against her ribcage. All she could hear was the roaring of her blood and Zuko's voice bitting out painfully. "But the issue I'm having, is that there's this other part of me…" he said slowly stepping forward into the room, pushing Katara backwards further into the suite "…that wants so badly to ruin the shit out of you". 'Ruin me?' Katara thought to herself. He was crazy, there was no way he'd literally ruin her…right? Katara bit her lip, utterly drunk off his words, and maybe a bit off the wine. Suddenly a fist full of her hair was being tugged backward exposing her neck to his hungry lips where he trailed open mouthed kisses along her jaw and throat.

"I want to know what that feels like" she whined out desperately. He paused in his attack smirking against her skin.

"What what feels like?" he asked.

"To be ruined…by you" she breathed simply. Zuko let out a hum that sounded strained. He cupped both her cheeks tilting her head up to him gently, gazing down at her adoringly.

"You have no idea what you're asking for my little kitten…" he grinned. Katara felt like a rabbit that had just accidentally fallen into a vipers den. Her adrenaline was making her vision cloudy and her breathing heavy.

Both POV

Zuko watched her cleavage rise and fall rapidly against the strain of her tight dress. Her blush had traveled down to her chest and he was now openly staring. He always loved this look on his prey, totally submissive and…aroused. Her poor eyes had been blown to practically all black. Her nipples had hardened to the point of straining against her dress. And of course her face was as red as a tomato, the contrast looking decadent under her brown skin.

"You look uncomfortable Kat…are you feeling… warm?" he asked in mock concern. She nodded her head wordlessly. His hand glided over her forehead and down her neck, as if to check her temperature, sending chills up her body.

"Agni your skin, it's burning up." He snaked his free hand around her waist holding her up against him. His mock concern made her want to be taken care of by him. It made her want to submit to his will. 'Could he quench my skin's burn?' she thought. He seemed to know exactly what ailed her so, and he spoke with a confidence that suggested he held the remedy.

"Why don't I help you out of this stuffy thing, huh Kat?" Whenever be used those pet names for her she lost all rational thought. She nodded her head in permission.

"Ah ah" he ticked, "I need you to use your words from now on. When I ask you something I want you to answer me, understand?" She nodded her head dazed by his dominance. Yanking her hair back harder than he ever had before Katara let out a small yelp.

"Yes!…I…I meant to say yes" she cried.

Spinning her around quickly he pressed her backside firmly to his front, so both of them stood in front of the room's floor length mirror. Katara stared in absolute shock at her appearance. Her curls cascaded messily over one shoulder from being mused by Zuko, her face flushed bright with color, eyes dialed and watery, chest straining against her dress, lips swollen with anticipation. She couldn't believe herself. She did look absolutely ruined. And she wanted to look even more ruined when Zuko finished with her.

"I like the way you look like this too" he growled from behind her as if he had read her mind. Katara could see from the mirror and feel him begin to unzip the back of her dress, exposing her bare back to him. Katara liked that she could see his eyes and analyze his reaction to each bit of exposed skin he revealed. In the mirror she could see him licking his lips as he let out a small hiss when he dropped the entirely of her dress around her feet. There she was, clad in her sexy underwear set she'd worn just for him.

"Agni damn it Katara" he bit out sounding completely caught off guard. She was glad she could finally one up him in something tonight. He immediately went to stroke her hips staring down at the tops of her breast like he wanted to devour them. Experiencing this interaction and seeing it in the mirror was like sensory overload for her. She shut her eyes when he bit down on her neck tenderly.

"Don't look away kitten" he coaxed gently, "i want you to see your face when you come apart." Opening her eyes she felt him step away from her to cross the room. He picked up the lounge chair that sat in the corner of the room setting it down directly in front of the mirror, angling it ever so slightly so that it wasn't completely parallel.

"Sit" he directed. Katara followed quickly sinking into the low plush chair. Katara was now eye level with Zuko's lean waist. She wanted to reach out and touch him, but something told her to wait for further instruction. He cupped her jaw tilting her head up to look at him. She gave him her sweetest smile earning a small smirk from him.

"It's so cute that you think kissing up to me will get you out of trouble" he smiled. Katara's grin faltered.

"How-?"

"Only begging will get you that my dear" he said tapping her cheek and bending down for a swift peck on the lips. It was the first time he'd kissed her since that very first time, and even that short contact was enough to fry her nerves.

"Relax princess, sit back….yeah just like that" his instructions were so fluid, like he was used to commanding people everyday. When she laid back and looked to the mirror she could see why Zuko had placed the chair the way he did. From this angle she could see absolutely everything. Her full body was on display even as he knelt down on one knee in front of her. Looking at her he began removing his leather vest and button down shirt. A single strand of hair came aloose from his loosening ponytail in the front, giving him a slightly disheveled look. Now they were on even playing field as he stood before her half dressed. Her eyes trailed down his body from chest to the V line that disappeared beneath his trousers. The tattoo she thought she saw months ago was actually a brand that looked like some fire nation ancient symbol. She appreciated his broad muscled chest and chiseled abs, his alabaster skin glistening in the candle light of the room. He moved then to place his large hands on her knees, trailing them to the insides of her thighs. He spread them open suddenly and widely with an assertiveness that begged no protest. She lie there completely spread eagle and stretched to capacity.

"Good girl kitten" he goaded. He hooked his elbows under her knees sliding her ass to the very edge of the chair. Her heart swelled from the positive reinforcement he was giving her. She couldn't understand it. Why was she reacting this way to something so seemingly rudimentary? He kissed her then before she could question him any deeper. This kiss was different from their last. Where that one was slow burning and steady, this one was hungry and needy. Zuko lightly bit at Katara's bottom lip causing her to moan loudly opening her mouth for him. He slid his tongue across hers easily, sensually teasing her…almost showing off to her what he could do with it. Katara's head was buzzing a thousand miles a minute. Her friends had warned her about what this night could possibly entail, but there was no rule book to prepare her for this. Maybe the rumors were more accurate than she'd thought. Trailing his kisses from her mouth to her Jaw he began palming the insides of her thighs with his rough hands. She was incredibly soft from the soaps and oils she'd used earlier and the contrast was orgasmic. Breathing in her lavender scent mixed with the heady sent of her arousal pushed him forward. Widening her legs even further and tilting her at an angle for the best viewing of the mirror Zuko began trailing kissed from her knees to her inner thighs, alternating sides. He was so lazy with his movements she felt as if she was being hypnotized.

"Uhh!" She cried out as he nipped a sensitive spot on her inner thigh. She had never known pleasure like this existed. Katara felt she'd jump completely out of her skin at any moment. She thought she'd reached her peak until he did something totally unexpected. He placed a lingering open mouthed kiss on top of her panties right above her clit. Katara nearly bowed her back in half, crushing her lip between her teeth to keep from shrieking. Katara could feel her juices practically leaking through her thin underwear. She knew she looked a mess but she was scared to see herself in the mirror now. She heard Zuko chuckle and felt his hot breath fan against her soaked cunt.

"Watch me" he instructed. She had to obey lest she upset him more than she already had today. Back still arched away from the back of the chair Katara tilted her head slightly to observe his ministrations through the mirror. She saw him place another kiss to her clothed slit, slightly lower where her center was the dampest.

"Huhn" she huffed pathetically. He teased her with another kiss, this one much further than she wanted him to be. He pulled back slight to hook his fingers in the waistband of her panties and peeled them off of her dampened skin. Zuko was now eye level with her bare sex unable to contain the starved look in his eyes. He had wanted for so long to be this close to her. He couldn't believe he had the object of his desires so open and willing for him like this. He stared at her flower hungrily using his thumbs to delicately open her folds. She moaned quietly trying to contain herself as a rush of cum came splashing out her pussy.

"Fuck kitten look how your dripping for me, and I've barely even touched you…" he said angling her and spreading her wider so she could see better. She gasped seeing her wetness sliding down her slit onto the velvet chair, leaving a dark stain. He dipped his head down to place an open mouthed kiss right to her opening. Katara's eyes nearly rolled out of their sockets as she witnessed a trail of her sticky wetness connecting her pussy to his glistening bottom lip when he pulled away slightly. Zuko hummed at the taste, licking his lips and breaking the trail. He didn't want to leave a drop of her wasted. Diving back in slowly he gave her one languid lick from the bottom of her slit to the top of her clit, swirling his tongue a little when he reached the top.

"Oh my La" Katara whispered. Her brain was going to implode if she let this go on any longer. Her poor pussy was leaking like a broken pipe and she had no idea how to contain it. Moving to close her legs Zuko grabbed her thighs holding them open firmly. He alternated between licking, sucking, and kissing her languidly until she was a moaning sweaty mess above him. Katara felt as if she was being tortured. Her body was reaching towards something, she just didn't know what. Stopping abruptly Zuko stood up. Katara stared up at him dazedly wondering why he'd stop. She was just on the precipice of something….something….

"You didn't think you'd go tonight without punishment did you?" He asked gruffly. She could tell he was at his wits end. Now his face sported a pronounced blush, his amber eyes glowing in the low candle light.

"No" she shook her head meekly, not knowing exactly what he meant but just wanting to be good for him. She'd give anything for the sweet pleasure he had bestowed upon her body. He removed the belt from his trousers using it to gently tie her hands behind her back. She didn't understand why but this form of restraint sent her into a frenzy. She felt completely vulnerable and at his will. With her arms restrained he took this time to unhook her bra and slowly removed it from her heaving breasts. His large hands cupped them immediately running his thumbs over the hardened nipples. She moaned as he weighed them in his hands. He knew they'd be perfect but Agni those tiny dusky nipples called to him like little pieces of chocolate wanting to be eaten. He bent down to capture one nipple in his mouth, releasing it with a pop and letting it bounce back. He did the same to the other, forcing Katara to rub her thighs together seeking some sort of friction.

"Keep those legs open" Zuko warned. Following obediently her legs parted as she strained against her restraint, wanting badly to reach out to him…touch him. But she had to accept her punishment.

He stood up again looking down his nose at her, tilting her chin up with his fingers.

"Kitten I think it's time we break that lip biting habit of yours. Maybe your mouth needs to be occupied by something else…" he mused removing his hardened member from his trousers. Stroking himself right in front of her face. Katara's jaw dropped.

"You want this?" He asked weighing his heavy member in his hand. It was larger than Katara thought it would be. Of course she'd only seen one in anatomy books, and even still they weren't erect and pulsing like this. A clear drop of precum dripped from his cock and she licked her lips hungrily. Katara mentally vowed that whatever he wanted in that moment she would give him.

"Answer me." he growled.

"Yes, I want it" she said quietly nodding her head slowly. He continued stroking himself slowly in front of her face, as if contemplating whether or not he'd give her what she asked for. Maybe this was where she was supposed to beg like he'd mentioned earlier.

"Please…?" she inquired meekly. He hummed in approval stepping forward a bit to stroke her hair softly. She took the opportunity to press a small peck to the tip of his member like he'd done to her earlier. He hissed in surprise fisting the hand he had in her hair to pull her head away slightly.

"Open wide Kat" he said hurriedly. She obeyed opening her mouth as wide as she could and sticking her tongue out slightly. He placed the tip lightly on her tongue swirling gently. Closing her mouth she gave him a gentle suck, like she would a lollipop. His raspy voice let out a strangled moan as he closed his eyes and tilted his head back. His grip was becoming tighter in her hair, but she loved it. Not knowing what else to do Katara looked up at him expectantly. Returning back to earth Zuko looked down smirking slightly at the sight beneath him. And a beautiful sight she was indeed. Those wide innocent blues stared up at him just waiting for his instruction. Placing his other hand gently around her throat he slowly guided her mouth over his cock. He was rock solid, the hardest he could ever remember being. It had been so long since he'd had any contact with a woman he was sure he'd burst quickly tonight.

"Mmm…good girl Kat. Yes suck just like that"

She was getting the hang of this rather quickly, which surprised Zuko. The way her warm mouth stroked his member was absolutely heavenly. Occasionally she'd run her tongue along his bottom vein sending shockwaves through his entire body. Strings of her saliva dripped down her chin as he slid his member slowly down her throat, testing how far he could push her. Her eyes watered looking up at him as she let out a tiny gag. He could feel his bulge moving in her throat from the hand that rested around her neck. Using the pad of his thumb to wipe away her tears he pushed his member in and out of her throat slowly as not to overwhelm her.

"That's it kitten…fuck" he was starting to sweat now. He was in absolute bliss and would surely cum down her throat soon if he wasn't careful. Then she moaned around his cock and he swore he saw stars behind his eyes. He pulled away quickly releasing her mouth from him with a pop.

"Did I do good?" She asked unsure. His heart swelled at her bid for approval. She was so adorable looking up at him like that.

"Yes kitten, that was amazing. You almost finished me there" he chuckled. Using the hand in her hair to stand her up he pulled her close to him capturing her lips in a fiery kiss while removing the belt from her wrists. Moaning she wrapped her arms around his neck pushing her breasts against his bare chest. Zuko lead them over to the large bed, scooting himself to the middle to lay down. He didn't think she would be ready to go all the way tonight. No that was something he would have to prepare her for later. Tonight he'd keep it simple so he wouldn't overwhelm her…introduce her slowly.

"Come here Kat" he beckoned. She followed, crawling onto the bed beside him resting on her knees. She was smiling softly with the prettiest blush on her face, looking at him like he was the most important thing in her world. She was certainly the most important thing in his he decided.

"I want you to climb on top of me with your head facing that way" he explained, pointing to the foot of the bed.

"Okay" she nodded, climbing on top of him a bit awkwardly, swinging her leg over to straddle him backwards. She looked back at him confusedly. Now…Katara knew she didn't know much about sex…but this seemed…quite unconventional.

"What now?" she asked nervously.

"Now I can really feast" he grinned wickedly. Grabbing her hips he yanked her back towards his face pressing a heated kiss to her center. Yelping Katara flailed to find purchase to keep herself upright. Zuko place a hand on the small of her back encouraging her to arch for him, his other hand palming and squeezing her ass.

"Mmm so sweet" he moaned against her lips, lapping hungrily at her folds. Katara was a blubbering mess above him, her hair a wild mane around her. Arching further she fell forward a little coming face to face with Zuko's straining member. Curiously she reached out and gripped the base in her hand. Zuko grunted against her lifting his hips slightly off the bed in encouragement. Feeling a surge of pride she stuck her tongue out licking the tip, moving further down his shaft with her tongue. He nipped at her inner thigh in response while simultaneously giving her a light slap to her ass.

"Don't tease me kitten" he warned. Moaning she engulfed his entire member into her mouth, taking him deeper than before. With this angle he was able to slide down her throat much easier. He thrusted lightly into her mouth while he returned to licking her like his life depended on it. It didn't take long for Katara to return to that place of bliss she had been in earlier. Releasing his member with a moan she began wiggling her hips, seeking out the friction she needed to reach that peak she so desperately knew was coming. She felt like she was no longer attached to her body.

"Zuko….please" she begged "please…PLEASE" she cried loudly.

"Please what kitten?" he asked impatiently slapping her ass again.

"Please I need…" she trailed off. She didn't know what she needed. Zuko then understood the poor girl had probably never orgasmed and took mercy on her.

"You need to cum." he said definitively. She nodded her head dazedly as he returned to pleasuring her with his mouth.

"Say it" he emphasized by smacking her harder making her ass bounce from the force.

"I need to cum" she moaned embarrassed, the words sounding so dirty on her lips. He parted her folds with the pads of his thumbs and spit directly on her pussy causing her to clench before him. 'Oh la, he's filthy' she thought as he slid a long finger into her center. That was all her body needed to go careening over the edge. Juices flowed from her unrelentingly and her back arched painfully threatening to break her. Her vision blurred and her body racked with uncontrollable tremors her voice catching in her throat.

"Let me hear you" he growled while pumping his finger in and out of her drenched center. She let out a high pitched scream as he prolonged her release. Sitting himself up in a sitting position he kept her ass pointed high in the air as he continued fingering her, licking his lips at the sight of her plump behind.

"Just look at yourself kitten" he cooed, reaching underneath them to turn her head towards the mirror. 'So this is ruined' Katara thought to herself. He slowed his movements, pumping his finger lazily inside her attempting to bring her down easy. Her breath finally returned to her lungs after a minute, her limbs feeling like jelly. He removed his fingers from her moving to gather her in his arms. She fell limp against him as he cradled her in his arms kissing her forehead softly.

"You did such a great job" he said stroking the top of her head. Grunting softly she turned in his arms to look at him blearily. Chuckling he bent down to press a chaste kiss to her lips. Katara felt like she was floating on a cloud, her eyelids getting heavier by the second.

"Thank you Zu" she mumbled sleepily. Smiling he cupped the side of her face running his thumb across the high point of her cheek.

"I love you Katara" he whispered as she closed her eyes drifting off to sleep. Sighing he laid her naked form down in the bed peeling back the sheets to tuck her in. Settling himself beside her he spooned her against his chest, trying to find sleep himself.

. . .

KATARAS POV

Katara woke to Zuko's feather light touches. His fingers gently ran up and down her sides his face buried in her neck from behind. She felt her face redden at the intimate contact, her breathing becoming heavy. They were still naked, but the light silk covers draped across their bodies providing some coverage.

"You're awake" his gruff voice strained. Turning to face him she was greeted with a soft smile and even softer amber eyes. Katara swooned inside at the loving way he was looking down at her.

"Good morning" she offered lightly. Propped on one elbow he bent down to place a chaste kiss to her lips, cupping her jaw gently.

"Check out is in an hour. I figured I'd run a bath for you before we go?" he said sweetly.

"That sounds nice" she nodded. Sitting up he moved to the edge of the bed, then walked to the French doors, disappearing behind them. Left alone Katara laid back covering her reddened face with her hands. Everything from last night came rushing to her memory in an instant causing her core to tighten. So she didn't know Zuko as well as she thought she did, that much was clear. But last night just made her want to discover more about him…and her own body. He seemed to know more about her body than she did which unnerved her. 'How did he know such things?' She wondered as she heard the water begin to run outside on the terrace. The words "I love you Katara" skirted across her memory then faded just as quickly as it came. Had she dreamt that? Shaking her head slightly she lifted herself from the bed, removing the covers from her form. Morning light filtered softly into the room, casting it into an orange haze. She padded to the French doors opening them slowly revealing a naked Zuko perched on the edge of the tub heating the water. Turning to look at her bare form his eyes traveled slowly from her toes to her head, finally resting on her eyes.

"Come" he stated simply, standing to his full height. Katara made it a point not to look below his waist, keeping her eyes trained on his face as she stepped forward and into the warm tub. Sinking inside she sighed deeply relaxing her head against the back of the porcelain bath and closing her eyes.

"Thank you" she sighed appreciatively. Bathing outside in a flower garden was something Katara didn't know she needed until then. The warm morning air grounded her, making her feel even more connected to her element. Next to her she heard the shower start, causing her to crack her eyes open and look to the side. There she saw Zuko step underneath the steaming water, the droplets traveling down his sculpted abs. Desire flooded within her all at once. She was surprised by her reaction, her body responding to him before her mind could even catch up. Finally she allowed herself to look down. His member was erect standing proudly against a thatch of dark hair. It reminded her of a dragon, red and angry…ready to concur. Then she remembered something. She had released last night, but he never got the chance to. She had fallen asleep before she could finish pleasuring him. Frowning she watched as he lathered some soap in his hands running it across his chest and down his torso. Finally his hands reached the base of his shaft where he gave himself a single pump. Gasping Katara shifted her gaze to his face where she found him already staring at her, fire in his amber eyes.

"Like what you see?" he asked smirking. She looked away ashamed, caught red handed, crimson shading her cheeks.

"Don't look away love" he said softly "i want you to watch me". Dragging her eyes away from the corner of the tub she willed herself to look at him. Stroking himself softly he let out a low moan while staring her right in her eyes. She wished she could be as bold as him. He had absolutely no shame in pleasuring himself before her. She got the sudden urge to help him, moving she reached for the edge of the tub to sit up.

"Ah ah ah" he ticked "stay there" as he pumped a little faster. So he wanted her to just watch him? But she wanted so badly to be involved in bringing him bliss, in the same way he had for her. Pouting she sat back in the tub watching enviously as his hand got to do what she wanted to him. Getting an idea Katara smiled mischievously. Circling her hand in a fluid motion she called the water cascading down his torso under her command. Waving her fingers she formed a circle of water around the base of his shaft, the force pushing his hand out of the way. Grunting he looked up to her in surprise as she tightened the ring with a squeeze of her fist. His face was now red and his pupils blown. She grinned baring her teeth to him. She used the water to pump him languidly, drawing out soft moans from his lips. She loved to hear him expressing his gratitude, it riled her up knowing she was the cause of such sounds escaping him. Leaning forward in the tub Katara zeroed in on him squeezing her fist tighter and pumping a little faster.

"shit…" he mumbled. He was now doubled over placing his hand on the shower wall for support. His hair curtained around him, shielding his face from her view. She saw his muscles straining and flexing with each stroke she gave him. Having control of him even though she was feet away was thrilling. It made her drunk with power. Now she understood why Zuko could get off to this alone. His body's submission to her was orgasmic.

"Uhhh" he moaned. He turned his face towards her then, his features were contorted in what looked like pain.

"Mmm Zu…" she moaned, in rapture of him. He was so beautiful like this. Long and wet dark locks framed his face, thick brows furrowed in pleasure, lips pursed in concentration.

"I'm…fuck, I'm gonna-" he whispered almost longingly. Two hard pumps later he was releasing with a moan, thick white jets of seed exploding from him and coating the shower wall. Katara watched in amazement as a blissful expression fell across his face. His fists balled turning his knuckles white as she continued to stroke him softly until his breathing slowed. She dissolved the water and used her bending to clean the wall. Smiling she sank back into the tub turning from him and completing her bath, letting him return to his shower as well.

ZUKOS POV

He watched as Katara slipped on her dress, moving her hair to the side so she could reach the buttons going down her back. Seeing her struggle Zuko stepped forward buttoning the small buttons behind her.

"Thanks" she sighed in relief. Zuko kissed the top of her head in response, spinning her around to face him. Katara was just as much of a mystery to him as he was to her. That water bending trick moments ago had taken him completely by surprise…and usually Zuko hated surprises. But with Katara everything was different. She challenged him in a way that no one else had, and captured his attention like no other lover could. He'd never wanted to completely defile someone, yet protect them all the same. But it wasn't just her sexual allure that held his attention when it came to this blue eyed beauty. No it was her heart, which was big enough for the two of them. She was attentive to everyone else's needs outside of her own, which made him want to be the one to give her what she needed. He'd provide for her…whatever it took. He realized in that moment he would never let her go. He'd spent so much time alone up until now. Spending his nights in isolation for years made him appreciate the warmth she brought to his life all the more. She soothed his worries, all thoughts of his banishment vanished when she was around. If he was good enough for her, that's all that mattered. She made him feel wanted…loved….appreciated. Life with her was easy and full. He suddenly saw his future in her eyes. His heart threatened to constrict.

"Kat…" he started, pressing his hands to the small of her back, searching her eyes.

"Yes Zu?" she asked. He smiled at the nickname she'd given him.

"I want more of you" he stated, unsure of how to go about this correctly. Her face reddened as she looked away.

"Oh…" she whispered. He mentally slapped himself.

"No! Not in that way…well I mean I do want you in that way but…what I mean is" he closed his eyes taking a deep breath starting over. Opening his eyes again he squeezed her sides.

"What I'm trying to say is, I want to court you. Properly. We can go as slow or as fast as you want to but I want you to be mine Katara. I want you to know that I'd do anything for you. Since you've come back into my life everything's been so much clearer. I never thought I could be happy living a life so simple. My banishment and betrayal to my home country has always brought shame upon me. You…you make it all worth it. I know you may want to leave eventually but…I'm asking Katara to…please stay. With me" he finished finally, looking down afraid of her answer. The silence seemed to stretch on, making his anxious heart pound in his chest.

"Oh Zu!" she exclaimed throwing her arms around his neck "of course I'll stay!" Pulling away she beamed at him her eyes alight with joy. He smiled toothily breathing a sigh of relief.

"Does this mean you'll finally sleep in the room with me?" she asked trailing her fingers down the front of his shirt. He couldn't stop himself from grinning as he tightened his hold around her waist.

"That's completely up to you my love. Come on, gather your things. We need to check out"

KATARAS POV

By the time they arrived back to the village it was dusk. Katara rested her head on Zuko's back as Umi trotted slowly up the pasture towards the cottage.

Katara waited to be lifted as Zuko stepped down from the saddle, removing the reins from the majestic mare. As they made their way up the dirt path towards the house Zuko held her hand. There had been a major shift now that they were back, Katara noticed. They no longer had to suppress their feelings for each other. She smiled to herself at this revelation. Stepping into the home Zuko dropped their bags at the front door and removed his jacket. Katara went to the sink immediately to wash her hands and begin prepping dinner. As she was peeling the potatoes she noticed Zuko hovering behind her, watching her every move. She smirked.

"Want to help?" she asked startling him. He scratched the back of his neck smiling shyly.

"Yeah" he returned.

. . .

"Zuko no!" Katara shrieked as he hoisted her over his shoulder. He slammed her on the counter tickling her relentlessly. Flour had been strewn all over the kitchen, the meat pie Katara was preparing forgotten on the counter next to the stove. He grinned wolfishly letting up only a little when she began wheezing from the attack. Who knew Zuko had such a playful side? It had began with Katara smearing a little flour on his nose as she taught him to roll the pie crust. From there a flour fight had ensued making a colossal mess, but neither of them cared.

"Zu! Zu! Please I can't take any more" she cried as tears slipped from the laughter. He rolled his eyes stopping his torture.

"Sense you beg so prettily" he rasped smirking at her wiping a clump of flower from her face. She returned to actually cooking, while Zuko cleaned the mess taking every spare chance he got to glance at her. After eating their meal and bathing they began to retire for the night Zuko moving to grab his blanket for the couch.

"Zu?" Katara called out quietly from the bedroom. She heard his rustling stop and smiled to herself as she pushed the sheets back from the bed. She looked over to see Zuko cracking the door open.

"Yeah?" he asked, looking concerned.

"I thought you'd want your bed back" she teased. He looked around the room nervously. The room was cast in low light, a single candle burning on the wooden nightstand. The curtains were slightly cracked filtering in the light from the half moon. He finally rested his eyes on her form, breathing in slowly.

"Yeah" he said simply, moving to the other side of the bed with careful footsteps. Katara let him lay down first, he seemed to be nervous about being in the bed together. This was odd to Katara seeing as they'd just spent the night together in that inn where they had had to share a bed. After he settled under the blanket Katara clambered in behind him, snuggling up to his side. This was what she'd dreamt of since arriving here. Having him cuddled up next to her instead of on that half broken couch. She sighed resting her head on his chest, feeling him wrap his arm around her to hold her close.

"Your heart's beating so fast" she whispered.

" I know" he said after a long pause.

"Why?"

"Nervous…I guess"

"Why?" she asked, her curiosity piqued. She sat up, propping her head on her elbow.

"I've never had a girl in this bed…" he started. Katara mentally rolled her eyes 'yeah well what about your other beds?' she thought, remembering the concubine rumors.

"I don't know Kat…I just don't want to fuck this up. I don't want to fuck…us…up" he said gesturing between them. Her face softened at his confession.

"You won't Zuko, you're the one who's made us a possibility. I love you Zu…and as long as you feel the same I'm not going anywhere" she reassured him. His good eye widened as he stared dumbfounded at her. She'd just confessed her love for him so casually, but in Katara's mind this felt so right and so natural. She felt at home with Zuko, wherever that home was she'd follow.

"I do…feel the same Kat. I love you too. I have for a long time now" he said in a serious tone. The base in his voice stoked a fire in her gut like taking shots of fire whiskey. Leaning down Katara kissed him, gently probing his lips with hers. Her hair fell in a curtain around them, and he reached up to run his fingers through it. Pulling away Katara smiled down at him, then pecked his nose quickly.

"Sweet dreams Zu" she whispered, settling back into his chest.

"Sweet dreams Kat" and with that he waved his hand putting out the candle and swallowing them in darkness.

END CHAPTER 3