I don't own Avatar: The Last Airbender nor the song 'Made for Me' by Muni Long
Feel free to play the song while reading
CHAPTER 7
The music blared and the neon lights pulsed around them, as Katara, Sokka, and Aang walked into the club. As they were entering, the paparazzi and hundreds of persons who had lined outside waiting to enter recognized Katara and went wild, snapping photos and screaming her name.
Some were more aggressive than others, trying to push through and touch her. Aang immediately went to action, shielding her with his body and ushering them in quickly.
Despite the chaos, Katara remained calm and composed, smiling, and waving at her fans as they walked by. She was used to the attention by now, but it still amazed her how much her music had touched so many people.
As they entered the club, the DJ's voice boomed over the speakers announcing Katara's presence. The crowd started cheering as she made her way to a more secluded part of the club with Sokka and Aang in tow.
If she was being honest, Katara felt a bit self-conscious at the sheer amount of attention on her. Although she appreciated her fans, the chilling messages she received earlier loomed over her like a dark cloud. It could be anyone. Even someone here. She shuddered at the thought.
"I can get used to this" Sokka exclaimed while smiling and leaning against the sofa lounge.
"Oh, you just love the attention." Katara rolled her eyes, though a smile spread across her lips.
The song 'Made for Me' reverberated throughout the room at that moment making Katara feel the sudden urge to let loose and dance. She swayed in her seat, bobbing her head to the beat while singing along to the chorus.
Nobody knows me like you do (nobody)
Nobody gon' love me quite like you (nobody, yeah)
Can't even deny it, every time I try it
One look in my eyes, you know I'm lying, lying
Body to body, skin to skin (I'm never gon' love like this)
I'm never gon' love like this again (again, yeah)
You were made for me (just for me)
Said you were made for me (only for me, yeah, yeah)
Think you were made for me, oh yeah
You were made for me
Aang sat across from Katara, enthralled by her vibrant energy. No matter how many times he saw her, his heart still raced, and his breath grew short whenever she was near. He longed to confess what he was feeling for her but didn't want to push his luck in case she didn't feel the same, nor did he want to complicate their professional relationship.
Aang never had luck with women. After Onji, he closed off his heart and tried to have casual flings, but quickly realize that he was just hurting those women by trying to get over his heartbreak. With the help of Gyatso, he cleaned up his life, cutting out his heavy drinking and vowed to never let someone have so much control of his heart again. That was until he met the tanned blue-eyed beauty sitting across from him. Yea, he was falling hard.
Like a magnet, Katara's sapphire eyes met his and her cheeks colored. She smiled at him, his grey eyes reflecting adoration. They kept their gaze on each other for a few moments before bashfully looking away.
Looking over at Sokka, Aang sees him immersed in his phone. He took the opportunity and leaned in to tease Katara, his smirk barely concealing his delight: "Are you trying to serenade me?" he whispered playfully in her ear.
His warm breath on her skin gave Katara chills. "You wish," she retorted, struggling to hide her own giddiness.
Aang leaned back on his seat laughing softly, the smirk still plastered on his handsome face.
Katara was heating up by his bare presence, his laugh, his stormy eyes. She couldn't help but bite her lip. Their playful banter was always there, but Aang didn't know what he was doing to her internally. She knew hands down she was physically attracted to him, but she also felt something more creeping up. He seemed caring and respectful. Those qualities were drawing her in like a moth to a flame. She didn't have the nerve to tell him for fear of rejection. Besides, what would her parents think of him? Ever since her toxic relationship with Jet, her parents scrutinized all her other short-term relationships, causing her to just cut things off and focus on her music. Katara realized she was thinking too far ahead. Her bodyguard could be off the market for all she knew.
"Suki!" Sokka suddenly called out, leaping from his seat to approach the auburn-haired girl.
"Hey Sokka, she shyly approached the group. A blush spread across her face as Sokka hugged her.
Katara then stood and hugged Suki, eager to drag her friend to the bar for some shots.
"We'll be right back," Katara said while pulling Suki away from a slightly annoyed Sokka.
"You'll get her back. It's girls time for now." Katara said matter-of-factly.
Aang stood up to follow, but Katara stopped him, saying she would be at the bar closer to the lounge and not to worry. Reluctantly, Aang agreed and sat back down.
He figured this was his way of granting her some semblance of privacy, and the bar wasn't too far away anyway.
"I'll make sure to taste her drinks and make half of them are just water," Suki said half-jokingly after seeing the worried expression on Aang's face.
Aang nodded, while Sokka huffed and sat down, leaving Suki giggling while being pulled away.
When the girls were a good way off, Sokka let out a heavy breath, his eyes glued to Suki as she walked off.
Aang smiled a knowing smile, clearing his throat to catch Sokka's attention. He didn't know if he would be crossing a line by asking, but he couldn't help it when he saw the helpless look on Sokka's face.
"So, I'm guessing you like her?" Aang asked while nodding his head in the direction of Suki.
Sokka lets out a soft sigh, finally peeling his eyes away "Is it that obvious?"
Just then, a bar attendant came around with a round of drinks. Aang made sure his drinks were non-alcoholic for both professional and personal reasons.
"It's written all over you," Aang responded while sipping on his virgin mojito.
Sokka took a large shot of vodka, before answering, the liquor burning as it went down. "I love her but I'm a wimp to admit it." He said with his head down.
They suddenly heard a shriek followed by laughter coming from the ladies. Aang looked swiftly in their direction and saw that Toph had arrived. His eyes landed on Katara not realizing the smile forming on his face as he watched her tilt her head back in laughter while leaning heavily on her friends as she downed a few shots of tequila.
"Are you checking my sister out?!" Sokka snapped at him after following his line of vision.
Aang flushed and jerked his head around, blinking rapidly. "I'm just watching her. It's my job remember?" He recovered quickly.
Sokka facepalms himself "Oh yeah, totally forgot.
Aang chuckled, then studied what Sokka just admitted and realized he might be in the same predicament. Even as he let that sink in, he tried to advise Sokka as best he could.
"You should let her know that before she moves on." Aang offered. "Besides, I'm getting the vibe that she feels the same way."
Sokka looked at Aang, taken aback by his blunt admission. Somehow, that hit home. No one had been direct with him about the consequences of putting off saying those eight important words to Suki. Yeah, they usually hang out and go on casual dates, but he realized they were just dancing around each other, and he intended to change that tonight.
"Thanks man."
"Anytime."
"Well," Sokka said while standing up and stretching, "I'm gonna go do that. Just ensure my sister doesn't get too wasted."
"Can you imagine the gall of my parents?" Toph huffed, downing another shot.
"I'm sorry Toph, that's crazy." Katara knew the girl's parents were very controlling of her, but never imagined they would take it that far.
Suki was quiet with a sympathetic look on her face. She couldn't imagine marrying someone she didn't love. She figured arranged marriages happened mostly in wealthy households; something she couldn't quite relate to. She was surprised that Sokka's parents were so accepting of her. Although they weren't official yet. She felt something deep for Sokka but wanted him to admit his feelings first. She shook away these thoughts even as Toph continued her ranting.
"Yeah, it's messed up if you asked me. I know it's my dad's idea and he's just trying to rope in mom." Toph replied.
Toph wore a sad expression at her statement, one Katara didn't see very much in her friend. She knew of her friend's mom condition and knew Toph was hurting deep down. Katara patted her back "So, what will you do?"
Toph then sported a mischievous grin "What do you think Sugar Queen? I'll run them all off!"
At that, the girls burst out in laughter.
Leave it to Toph to lighten the mood despite the situation. Katara also knew in a way she was hurting a bit deep down. She made a mental note to call her best friend more to check up on her.
"Ok, ok enough about my pathetic love life. Let's make a toast to Sugar Queen" Toph declared.
Katara blushed in humility as the girls congratulated her on her song and new penthouse.
As they clinked their glasses together and downed the fiery liquid, Katara couldn't shake the feeling of dread that crept up as the series of ominous messages she received earlier popped up in her head. She had tried to brush it off as a prank, but she knew she was just trying to make herself believe that.
The person seemed so manipulative, so misogynistic, so sexist, so familiar.
Fear gnawed at her insides, leaving her wondering if she should confide in her friends. It was weighing heavily on her, and she had to get it off her chest.
After another round of shots, Katara finally found the courage to speak up, her voice barely audible over the pounding music. "Guys, I need to tell you something," she began, her eyes darting nervously between Toph and Suki.
"What is it?" Both girls asked at the same time.
"Um…as I was preparing to come here, I received some weird messages. Could be nothing, but I'm still a bit worried since it looks like they were watching me." She said her voice shaky as she opened her phone to show Suki and used the audio mode for Toph.
For a while, the girls said nothing, their expressions a mix of shock and disbelief.
Suki finally found her voice "Did you try calling back the number?" she asked, almost whispering. The atmosphere around them suddenly changes into something a bit more eerie as they process the contents of the messages.
Katara shook her head "To be honest, I was just in shock and Aang was waiting for me for us to leave."
"Does your bodyguard know?" Toph asked suddenly, already guessing she knew the answer.
She knew her best friend well. Katara had a fierce independent nature and never liked asking for help. It was a quality she shared as well.
"Uh..no." Katara said in a small strangled voice.
Fuck Katara! Why do you do this?" Toph whispered yelled.
Katara was a bit taken aback by her friend's harsh tone. She looked at her and also saw deep worry in her eyes, noting as well that she called her by her name.
Katara's shoulders slumped as she realized her mistake, guilt washing over her. "I know, I know," she murmured, her voice tinged with regret. "I just...it happened so fast; I didn't think it was too much to worry about. I still don't think it's legit, but it's still weighing on me." She said the last part more to herself.
"Katara, you should have told him right away," Suki admonished, her tone firm. "It's his job to protect you."
"I know, I was thinking I could handle it on my own. Besides, I didn't want to ruin our night."
Toph snorted incredulously. "Oh please, Katara. You can barely handle a hangover, let alone a potential stalker. And to hell with ruining the night."
Katara looked down fidgeting with her hands. She knew her friends were right.
"Do you have any idea who it could be?" Suki asked, breaking the tense silence that settled upon the group.
"Not really, the only person I have a bad past with is my ex-boyfriend, Jet and he is in jail. Katara replied, swirling the liquor in her glass.
Toph sensed the fear in her friend's voice at the mention of her ex. Toph knew very well the horrors her friend went through while with Jet. He was controlling and abusive, trying to keep her away from her friends and family.
"Well, as an up-and-rising celebrity, you might have a few haters." Suki asserted.
Katara wasn't entirely convinced. "I know, but it just seemed personal to me. Look, I'll let my bodyguard know tomorrow and he will look into it. Let's just forget it for now, and Suki for spirit's sake, please don't tell my brother."
Suki nodded while Toph gave Katara a reassuring squeeze "We're here for you SugarQueen but don't do something like this again. And thanks for telling us.
"I'll try not to."
"Ok now let's get back to celebrating," Toph exclaimed, while they clinked their glasses and started dancing to the upbeat music now playing.
"Um SugarQueen," Toph started as they paused in their dancing. "Haru was asking for you the other day." She said with a smirk.
Katara groaned. "I told you guys I'm focusing more on my music." She lied.
She just didn't click well with him. They had interacted a few weeks ago when Toph introduced him to her. He was from a wealthy family, he seemed polite, but he was just a bit boring. Since the last time they met, he had been trying to win her over. She had decided after a while to give him a chance.
Then she met Aang…and Haru was the last thing on her mind.
The girls continued drinking and becoming giggly after consuming much more alcohol. They laughed a bit more after sharing embarrassing stories of each other.
From the other side of the club, Aang was unaware of a pair of eyes observing his every move. The pair of eyes belong to a young woman named Meng. She was with her group of friends, giggling as she eyed him from across the club. She couldn't help but notice how attractive the guy looked in his sleek black suit and muscular physique, his charcoal eyes that glimmered in the night light.
"He's so perfect!" she exclaimed to her friends.
Mai rolled her eyes "If that's what you like." She said flatly.
"He's a cutie." Tylee chimed in.
"I saw him first, now back off floozy." Meng snarled. Do you guys think I should approach him? Looks like he came alone."
"Try your luck. You never know." Said Yue, one of her friends.
Meng contemplated whether she was brave enough to do this. She realized she would rather try than never see him again and regret it.
She got up slowly, her friends cheering her on as she made her way over to Aang, her heart racing with anticipation. She sauntered up to him, but he didn't notice her.
"Hey there," Meng purred, twirling a strand of her hair around her finger. "You look like you could use some company."
Aang, who had been scanning the room to ensure Katara was safe, turned his attention to the girl in front of him, not feeling much about what she just said.
Aang raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in his eyes. He felt he knew exactly what the girl was up to, but he decided to play along. "Be my guest."
Meng immediately flushed, her cheeks heating up. She sat close to him eyeing him hungrily. She felt giddy just trying to imagine calling him hers.
"So, what's your name?" Aang asked while taking a sip of his drink.
She winked "Its Meng. And what's yours?"
Aang wondered if he should give her the wrong name. Although he wasn't particularly interested in her, he realized that would've been too evil. "Aang"
"So, do you want a drink?" She asked.
"Na, I have one already." He said leaning back against the seat.
She face palms, kicking herself for not realizing that.
Aang looked off in Katara's direction to make sure everything was good. She was facing away from him talking with her friends. He felt a bit guilty for getting distracted while on the job. But dismissed the thought since Katara asked for time with her friends.
"So, tell me a bit about yourself. What do you like to do for fun?" The bubbly girl pulled him from his thoughts.
"Uh, nothing much just hit the gym, play pai cho."
She laughed loudly at that and Aang wanted to know what was funny. "What's so funny?"
"Oh Aangy, that's no fun. I could show you some real fun." She bit her lip.
Aang cringed at the nickname she gave him and flushed slightly at the underlying meaning of her words.
"Oh" was all he could manage.
"Is there something on my face?" Aang asked after she had been staring lustfully at him for several minutes with her hands at the sides of her face.
She giggled "No, but you're really cute." She said while attempting to hold onto his arm. He dodged a bit out of her reach.
Something about the girl turned Aang off. She seemed a bit desperate for his liking.
He was getting bored after a while of her talking but didn't want her to feel bad. He chanced a look in Katara's direction and saw her eyes narrowed at the girl. She then looked at him and he studied her closely. Is she jealous? He smiled widely at her; his eyes boring into hers.
Sometime while dancing with her friends, Katara's attention had shifted across the room and settled on her bodyguard, Aang. He was engrossed in a conversation with a young woman who was dressed in the most revealing outfit Katara had ever seen. The girl seemed captivated by Aang, smiling at his words with a hunger in her eyes. Katara quickly looked away, feeling a tightness in her throat. She felt something clamped around her heart, and realized she was jealous.
Toph, ever the perceptive one, noticed the change in Katara's demeanor and raised an eyebrow. "What's got you all hot and bothered, Sugar Queen?" she teased, taking a sip of her cocktail.
"I'm perfectly fine Toph." She tried to hold back the tears that was threatening to fall. She didn't know why it was affecting her so much.
Meanwhile, Suki approached Katara with a grin. "I'm sensing a green-eyed monster" she teased.
Katara huffed. "Why would I be jealous? I have no reason to. He's my bodyguard, I don't have any rights over him."
Toph chuckled. "Sure, sure. Keep telling yourself that Sugar Queen.
Katara rolled her eyes at her friends, irritated that they could read her so well.
"You guys are trippin'," she slurred a bit. "Can we just continue our dance?"
Katara found herself constantly sending longing gazes at Aang from across the club.
He wasn't looking, and the girl advanced to touching him subtly on his arm while talking, with him pulling away slightly.
Her eyes narrowed as she observed the girl's actions, and she unconsciously tightened her grip on her cup, her knuckles turning white.
Then, she glanced back at Aang and caught him looking at her with curious eyes. He smirked, then flashed her a wide, goofy smile that made her melt on the spot. She returned the smile.
Her heart sped up and he continued to steal furtive glances at her, the girl next to him not having a clue.
Suki sidled up next to her "damn, he takes his job really seriously. He's definitely keeping an eye on you."
Katara found herself blushing madly at Suki's comment.
Just then Sokka approached them. "Hey Suki, mind if I steal you away for a bit?"
"Sure Sokka. See you girls later." Suki waved them off.
"Sis, I'm leaving. Take it down a notch with the liquor." Sokka told his sister after seeing the telltale signs that she was getting inebriated.
They hugged and Sokka and Suki left.
Toph and Katara proceeded to down a few more shots, with Toph climbing on the bar top and twerking, her bodyguard close by. Luckily, they were in the VIP section with very few people that were intoxicated themselves.
The two were giggling uncontrollably, their inhibitions dropping rapidly.
"What's up, Sokka?" Suki asked, a curious look in her eyes. The two of them were outside the club in a secluded area.
Sokka was fidgeting with the hem of his jacket. He could feel his heart pounding against his chest, his palms sweaty despite the cool evening air. Suki stood beside him, her eyes gleaming with anticipation, unaware of the whirlwind of emotions swirling inside him.
He couldn't believe he was about to do this. He took a deep breath and turned to Suki, who was watching him with a curious expression.
Taking a deep breath, Sokka met her gaze, his nerves threatening to overwhelm him. "I... I've been thinking a lot lately, about us, about... about how much you mean to me."
A soft smile tugged at Suki's lips as she reached out to gently squeeze his hand. "You're making me nervous, Sokka. Just tell me."
Sokka chuckled nervously, running a hand through his hair. "Right, sorry. It's just... Suki, I love you. I've loved you for so long, and I couldn't keep it in anymore. You're amazing, and funny, and strong, and... and I just can't imagine my life without you."
Suki's eyes widened in surprise, her breath catching in her throat. For a moment, silence hung heavy between them, the only sound the distant thump of music from inside the club.
Then her smile widened a hint of surprise in her eyes. "Sokka, I...I don't know what to say."
Sokka felt his heart drop at her response. Had he misread her signals? Did she not feel the same way about him? He tried to keep his composure, his nerves getting the best of him.
"I understand if you don't feel the same way," he said quickly, looking down at his feet. "I just needed to tell you how I feel."
Suki placed a gentle hand on Sokka's cheek, her eyes searching his. "No, Sokka. I do feel the same way," she said, a small smile playing on her lips.
Sokka's eyes widened in surprise, a rush of emotions flooding through him. "Y-you do?"
Suki nodded, her smile widening. "Yes, Sokka. I love you too. I've been waiting for you to say something for so long."
Sokka felt a wave of relief washes over him, a huge smile breaking out on his face. He couldn't believe that Suki felt the same way about him. Without thinking, he closed the distance between them, his lips meeting hers in a tender, tentative kiss. Suki's eyes widened in surprise before fluttering close, their lips moving together. Sokka's hands found their way to Suki's waist, pulling her closer as he deepened the kiss. Suki responded in kind, her hands moving to tangle in his hair as she lost herself in the moment.
He pulled back slightly, looking into Suki's eyes, filled with love and adoration.
"I can't believe you love me too," Sokka said softly, his voice filled with emotion.
Suki smiled, placing a hand on Sokka's cheek. "I've always loved you, Sokka. I just needed you to say it first."
Sokka couldn't help but laugh, a weight lifting off his shoulders. He felt like he was walking on air, the nervousness he had felt earlier completely gone.
He guessed he had Aang to thank for knocking some sense into him.
Back at the lounge, Aang's eyes darted back to Katara. He noticed she and her friend were intoxicated and drawing attention to themselves. He needed to step in now.
Meng noticed his distraction and felt a pang of annoyance. "Did you hear what I just ask you?"
"I'm sorry, what were you saying uh...?" Aang was trying to remember the girl's name.
Meng's jaw dropped. "It's Meng. And I thought we were having a nice conversation, but it seems like you're more interested in staring at that girl over there."
Aang blushed slightly. momentarily flustered. "Oh, uh, sorry, Meng. I didn't realize I was being so obvious. What was it again?"
"I was asking if you wanted to hang out sometime. You know, I can give you my number and we can take it from there."
Aang sighed, rubbing his neck awkwardly. He didn't want to hurt the girl's feelings, but he was not attracted to her. He also felt bad for leading her on.
"Meng, I'm flattered, but the truth is, I have feelings for someone else. I'm sorry if I gave you the wrong impression. It's not personal, I promise.
Meng's smile faltered, her eyes flickering with disappointment and jealousy. "Oh... I see." She fiddled with her drink, suddenly finding the pattern on the table fascinating.
She wanted to leave the club with this handsome guy. She could already imagine the two of them making love, marrying, and having a family.
An awkward silence settled between the two of them that seemed to stretch on.
"She's pretty by the way," Meng muttered, after a while of tense silence between them.
"Who?" Aang asked puzzled.
Meng huffed "I'm not blind. I see how you look at that mocha-skinned girl. And how she looks at you - like now, for instance."
Aang turned red, glancing over to see Katara gazing at him with half-lidded eyes, clearly intoxicated. Toph was nowhere around. Panic set in when he realized he had left her in a vulnerable position. He decided it was time to take her home.
"I have to go." Nice to meet you by the way. He smiled and Meng's heart skipped a beat. "You seem like a nice girl, but you deserve someone who truly cares for you," Aang told her before he walked away.
Meng nodded, a pained expression on her face as she walked back slowly to her friends.
"Ms. Beifong, your parents are requesting you back" Toph's bodyguard stood helplessly looking at the short young woman making a scene on the dance floor.
"Oh please, the night is still young!" She slurred.
"Your mom wants to see you Ms. Beifong." The guard said cautiously.
"Fineee.. it's always mother this, mother that. Father this, Father that. Lead the way spoil sport. Toph huffed, her bangs falling into her face, skin sweaty from dancing.
"Byeeee babyy!" Katara exclaimed as the two embraced. Then Toph was led out by her bodyguard.
Katara felt alone and the room was spinning. She turned and realized her bodyguard was not with her. She spun around, eyes searching for him. When she did, he was still with that girl. Katara's eyes were lidded as she looked Aang over. She turned around and immediately ordered another drink.
"Katara?"
"Aang!" Katara exclaimed, her words slightly slurred as she turned to him with a wide grin. "You're here! I was hoping you'd come."
Aang had never seen her when she was intoxicated, so seeing it now was endearing and slightly amusing.
"I see you had a lot of fun." Aang said softly, but maybe it's time to head home."
Katara waved a dismissive hand, her movements a bit unsteady. "I'm fine, Aang. Just getting started."
Aang sighed, knowing he had to get her out of there before she attracted more attention. "Come on, let's get you home," he said gently, reaching out to help her off the stool.
Katara leaned into him, her breath warm against his ear as she giggled. "You're always looking out for me, Aang. Such a gentleman."
Aang felt his heartbeat sped up at her proximity. He swallowed hard. He quickly tried to compose himself. "It's my job Katara, now will you let me take you home?"
Katara refuses, crossing her arms, her bottom lip jutting out in a pout. "But I don't want to go home yet. Besides, my feet is hurting me."
With a resigned sigh, Aang swooped in and effortlessly lifted her over his shoulders, Katara squealed at the sudden movement. "AANG! Put me down!".
Aang ignored her protests as he shifted her in his arms, carrying her bridal style out to the parking lot. All the while trying to ignore the way her body felt pressed against him. Her skin was so soft. He had to breathe in deeply, using all his self-control to prevent a situation down south.
"You can barely stand straight. I can't risk you collapsing in the street." Aang said while walking to the car.
As Aang buckled Katara into the front seat, she reached out and grabbed his hand, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "You're no fun. I was just starting to have a good time."
Aang chuckled softly, shaking his head at her antics. He then went over to the driver's side, got in, and started the car. "Are you comfortable Katara?"
No answer.
"Katara?" Aang looked over and saw her sound asleep, her lips slightly parted, head resting on the side of the car door. Aang had never seen something more beautiful than the angel beside him at that moment.
A soft smile tugged at his lips as he gently adjusted her position in the seat, ensuring she was comfortable. He tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ears and admired her features for a few more seconds before he started the car and sped away.
Aang carefully navigated his way through the door, his arm securely wrapped around Katara's waist as he carried her into the apartment. Her head lolled against his shoulder, a small smile playing on her lips even in her slumber. The dim light of the hallway cast a soft glow on her face, accentuating the gentle curve of her cheek.
"Katara," he whispered, his voice barely audible in the quiet of the night. "We're home."
Katara stirred slightly, her eyelids fluttering open as she tried to focus on her surroundings. "Mmm... home already?" she mumbled; her words slightly slurred.
"Yeah," Aang replied softly, a fond smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Let's get you to bed."
Katara giggled again, her laughter tinkling like wind chimes in the night. "You're my hero, Aang," she slurred playfully, her fingers tracing circles on his chest.
Aang couldn't help but chuckle at her drunken antics, his heart fluttering at the effects of her playful demeanor. "Just doing my duty, milady," he replied with a mock bow.
As they reached her bedroom, Aang carefully lowered Katara onto the bed, her eyes sparkled with mischief as she looked up at him. "You know, you're pretty cute when you're all serious and responsible," she teased, a mischievous grin dancing on her lips.
Aang felt his cheeks flush at her words, a shy smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "It's so sad you won't remember a thing after tonight, I'm enjoying the compliments." He grinned down at her.
Katara's laughter filled the room, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
"Ok, time to sleep. I'll leave this container right here for you to use if you feel upset, ok?" Aang said as he pulled a blanket over her.
"Sweet dreams Tara," Aang said softly while tucking a strand of hair behind her hair. He figured she wouldn't remember a thing in the morning. He wanted to kiss her so badly and called her his. He dismissed these thoughts quickly. If he were to express his feelings to her, it would not be like this.
As he got up from her bed to go to his room, she reached out and grabbed his hand. "Stay with me, Aang," she pleaded, her voice soft and sweet like honey. "I don't want to be alone."
Aang swore his heart stopped.
A pang of conflict surged through Aang's chest as he hesitated, his mind racing with conflicting emotions. He would be crossing so many boundaries. His main concern was if Katara awoke the next morning or during the middle of the night and got upset with him.
"Katara, you're drunk. You don't know what you're saying." He said looking into her blue glossy eyes. Tomorrow will be a different story."
"Just for tonight." Katara pleaded.
Aang's heart clenched at the vulnerability in her voice, his resolve weakening with each passing moment. He realized he couldn't say no to her.
"You promised you would go to sleep if I did?"
She looked up at him with puppy dog eyes and nodded. Aang's breath caught in his throat at the sight of her like that.
"Okay," he relented, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'll stay."
A small smile spread across Katara's lips as she scooted over to make room for him on the bed, her eyes shining in the moonlight.
Aang decided to sleep in his shirt and pants. Just stripping his suit jacket, taking out his gun from the holster and placing it on the nightstand.
As Aang settled beside her in bed, the thought of her warm body pressed against his made him nervous. He decided to sleep on top of the blanket to keep a respectable distance from her. Katara suddenly scooted closer, wrapping her arms around his neck, her head resting on his chest. Aang felt himself growing and thanked the spirits he was not pressed against her in that moment, since he was on his back.
"Your body is so warm." Katara giggled.
"Katara, you promised you would sleep remember? That's our deal." Aang said looking down at her form. Her hair splayed on his chest. He had to suppress a moan at the sight of her like that.
"You pinky swear promise you'll stay?" Katara raised her head and looked sadly into his eyes.
Aang was trying not to laugh at the almost childish expression on her face. "I promise Katara, pinky swear."
Just then, Aang noticed Katara leaning in and before he knew it, her lips crashed into his. For a moment, Aang froze, stunned by the suddenness of the action. But as he felt her soft lips against his, all thoughts of restraint melted away, replaced by an overwhelming surge of desire. He began to move instinctively, his lips sliding against her own as he placed his hand behind her head, pulling her closer as she moved her hand to cup his face. He shivered when he felt her hot, wet tongue traced his bottom lip begging for entrance. He parted his lips to let her in, and she moaned audibly against him when his tongue met hers. She moaned again louder than last time which was enough to snap him out of his daze.
he reluctantly pulled away, his breaths coming in ragged gasps as he struggled to regain his composure, a tent forming in his pants. "Katara, I... I can't do this. Not like this."
Aang felt extremely bad for kissing her in her vulnerable drunken state. He wanted to kick himself for doing that. At the same time, he couldn't deny the pleasure that shot through his body at the feel of her lips on his. He kissed many times before, but nothing could compare to this. He hoped she wouldn't remember this in the morning.
"Did I do something wrong?" Katara asked, her eyes watery.
"No no, it's not you. But I want you to sleep now, ok?" He cajoled.
She nodded and settled back in the same position as before. After a while her breathing slowed and Aang realized she was fast asleep.
He tentatively placed his hands on her back as he let sleep overtake him as well.
Two years ago
[Republic City Correctional Institution]
The clang of metal against metal echoed through the dimly lit corridor as Jet was unceremoniously shoved into the cramped jail's holding cell. His body still thrummed with adrenaline from the scuffle that had landed him here, his face a canvas of bruises and blood.
As the heavy door slammed shut behind him, Jet staggered to his feet, his eyes scanning the shadowy cell, his eye landing on a lone figure leaning against the wall; a heavy-set man with a long black mustache with piercing golden eyes staring straight at him.
"What the hell are you looking at?" Jet scowled; his voice hoarse from the struggle.
"You look like you've been through hell," Ozai remarked, his voice smooth and calculating.
Jet scoffed, wiping a trickle of blood from his split lip. "You're not exactly in pristine condition yourself."
Jet made his way over to the figure, his muscles tensed from the fight. "Mind if I join you?" he asked, his voice rough with exhaustion.
The figure glanced up, his eyes glinting in the dim light. "Suit yourself," he replied, his voice a low growl.
Jet settled down beside the stranger, his body aching from the bruises that adorned his skin. They sat in silence for a long while, the only sound the rhythmic breathing of their fellow inmates.
After what felt like an eternity, Jet finally broke the silence. "Name's Jet," he muttered, his voice barely above a whisper.
The stranger turned to look at him, his features illuminated by the faint glow of the overhead light. "Ozai," he replied, his voice tinged with a hint of amusement.
Jet nodded, committing the name to memory. "So, what are you in for?" he asked, his curiosity getting the better of him.
Ozai shrugged, a smirk playing on his lips. "Same as everyone else in here, I reckon. Got caught doing something I shouldn't have."
Jet raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued. "You don't strike me as the type to get caught easily."
Ozai's lips curled into a predatory smile. "Let's just say trouble has a way of finding me. But enough about me. What about you? What landed you in this cesspit?"
Jet hesitated, the memories of his fight with his girlfriend's brother still fresh in his mind "Got into a little scuffle with my girlfriend's brother," Jet admitted, his voice dripping with venom. "He didn't take too kindly to me slapping her around. And my woman at that."
Ozai raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Sounds like there's more to this story than meets the eye. Care to share?"
And so, in the dimly lit confines of their shared cell, Jet recounted the events that had led to his arrest – his long-time girlfriend breaking it off with him, the heated exchange, her brother intervening, the fists flying.
As he spoke, he could see a glint of recognition in Ozai's eyes – "Did you say your ex-girlfriend is Hakoda's daughter?" Ozai asked.
"Are you listening or what?!" Jet grunted. "And she's not my ex. She's my woman, I will get her back if it's the last thing I do."
Ozai smirked, amusement in his eyes "Pretty sure once she dumped you, you're automatically her ex."
"Fuck you!" Jet was seething with rage.
Ozai was resisting the urge to rearrange the youngster's face. He formed his fingers into a fist to calm himself down. He decided that the young man would be useful to set his plan in motion.
"Sounds like we have a common enemy," Ozai mused, his gaze locked with Jet's. "My beef with your girlfriend's family goes way back. Let's just say I have a score to settle with them."
Jet's interest was piqued. "Oh really? So, what do you suggest we do about it?"
Ozai smirked, a plan already forming in his devious mind. "Simple. We help each other out. You want revenge on your girlfriend's brother and to get your ex…..eh em woman back, and I have unfinished business with her family. Together, we can make sure they all pay for what they've done to us."
Jet studied the man closely, wondering if he could trust him. Few male figures in his life give a damn about him.
What's in it for me?" Jet asked.
Ozai's smile widened, revealing a glimmer of greed. "Let's just say I have a few jobs I'll have you deliver for me. In exchange for money and a home. I'm sensing you don't have any."
Jet scoffed but lowered his head. Ozai was spot on. "And what's in it for you? I mean you can get revenge on your own."
"Well, for one, I'll finally have a son willing and worthy to do my bidding. A lot of people know me, so I can't be seen going around doing these jobs. I must stay anonymous. And we both want revenge, so with your skill and my connections, we'll be unstoppable." Ozai explained.
After seeing the hesitation in Jet's face, he added "We both get the satisfaction of seeing our enemies squirm," Ozai replied with a sinister smile. "And maybe a little profit on the side. We both get what we want Jet."
"I'm in." Jet said finally.
"Good, if you get convicted, keep your head down while in here. I'll see what I can do to lessen your sentence, then we will put our plan in motion."
"Jet Vallan, your bail was paid. You're free to go for now. Get your lawyers ready." An officer announced loudly by the entrance of the cell.
"See you soon." Ozai smiled, an evil smirk on his face as Jet followed the officer.
A/N: I know this chapter was really long. When I start, I have a hard time stopping haha. Hope you enjoyed the chapter either way. please review. It keeps me going.
Review Responses:
Vapor23: Thank you for your review! Yeah, Aang is always sweet, and I want to portray that as much in this fic. Katara is too stubborn lol and feels she can do everything on her own.
Ashley Barbosa: Thank you so much for the review! Yeah, poor Katara I'm putting her through A lot. Oh, yikes seems like I made him too OC. I'm guessing in this he has a soft spot for his daughter compared to his son which will be shown later. Yea, it's funny that the tables have turned with Katara and Azula. Seems like Katara is not taking it too seriously yet.