A/N: Another chapter guys. Thank you for following this story and reviewing it. It means a lot. Also, just as a disclaimer which I should have stated before, in the future this story will contain a bit of violence (yes sweet Aang will be using weapons due to the nature of the story) there will be mentions of self-harm and maybe a lemon in the future. I will ensure I warn you about such occurrences. This chapter is just a filler. I'm trying to develop the story before going into the action. Now on to the story.
I do not own Avatar: The Last Airbender
CHAPTER 4
After snapping out of her trance and feeling utterly embarrassed, Katara reached out her hands in greeting. The simple gesture sent a warm sensation down her arms.
After exchanging handshakes, Kya and Hakoda decided to give the two some space to get to know each other.
"I'll stick around to keep you guys company," Sokka declared as he pulled up a chair and squeezed himself in between them.
"No, you won't, son. Let's give them some privacy," Hakoda said firmly.
Sokka reluctantly stood up and glanced back at the pair, pointing two fingers at his eyes and then at Aang in a playful warning.
Aang chuckled and scratched the back of his head before turning his attention back to the captivating woman in front of him.
"You don't look like the typical bodyguard type." Declared Katara suddenly.
"Oh really? How so?" He asked teasingly.
"Well, for one you are young" and attractive she wanted to say but bit her tongue. "also, you don't look the part no offense," Katara said looking straight at him.
"Care to explain further princess?" Aang chuckled.
Katara tried to conceal the blush creeping up her cheeks when he addressed her in that manner. Despite his good looks, she saw him as a threat to her independence. So as hard as he was making it for her with his sweet face and charming personality, she was determined to make him reconsider accepting the position.
She knew deep down that it was a lost cause.
"Please don't call me that. I have a name, it's Katara but you can call me Kat for short." She crossed her arms and narrowed her eyes at him.
Aang studied her closely, her pink lips forming an adorable pout as she crossed her arms trying to seem intimidating. Spirits she was beautiful.
"And here I thought every girl liked to be called princess," Aang smirked.
"It makes me sound like I'm a spoiled brat." Katara retorted.
"You know, I did picture you as one when I heard your little outburst from earlier, but not anymore." He said grinning.
Katara's eyes widened in embarrassment as she recalled her little episode. She was a grown woman in her early twenties and she was acting like a bratty teenager in front of this stranger. She wanted to smack herself for letting her emotions rule her.
She hid her face in her hands. "Ugh! You heard everything? I was just being dramatic." She said sheepishly. "
"Right, dramatic." Aang said, grinning. "But not to worry, I'm not here to babysit you. Just to ensure you are protected at all costs." He replied truthfully.
Katara felt a bit relieved at his response. "Glad we're on the same page."
Deep down, Katara couldn't deny the warm feeling she felt inside when he mentioned protecting her as his life depended on it. It's his job Katara! She admonished herself. She wanted to slap herself for falling so easily for his charm. I was supposed to scare him off! She couldn't place it, but there was an inexplicable allure about Aang that continued to captivate her.
After composing herself, she got back to the burning question at hand.
"So, back to what I was saying, you're not stiff and serious," she said thoughtfully. "You seem more laid back. How did you get the job again?"
"I'm experienced in martial arts, I have experience with guns, I was once a marksman and worked in the military a few years back. I was forced to learn these trades long ago to protect someone special to me."
When he mentioned that, Katara saw a sad look in his grey eyes. But just as it came it disappeared from his features.
"I also hit the gym regularly to keep fit. But, most importantly, I value family." He said seriously his eyes sparkling. "
I'm also a fun and easygoing person. Life's too short to be serious all the time, right?" He said Wiggling his eyebrows suggestively.
Katara couldn't help but laugh. "Well, that is true." She smiled.
Her laugh was like music to his ears and he found himself wanting to listen to it every day. Katara was very attractive and he had to constantly remind himself that he was there to do a job. It didn't help that she was making it quite hard for him.
"Well, Mr. Jackson, I'm glad I got to know you a bit better. My manager will sort out the apartment in two days and I'll personally give you the tour.
she found herself enjoying his company more than she anticipated.
"Okay, sounds good. Aang is fine once I get to just call you Katara?"
She smiled, "Fair enough."
They stood together and shook hands. Aang held hers a second longer causing her to turn a shade redder while trying to take her hand back.
He left the mansion and Katara let out a breath she didn't know she was holding as she slumped onto the sofa. "Well, this is going to be harder than I thought."
She went to the bar. She felt flustered and in desperate need of another drink.
Aang drove over to his guardian's place the following day to share the news about landing a job and to let him know he should not worry about finance. He also had to break it to him that he wouldn't be around as often but promised to visit whenever possible.
To his surprise, the Hopkinsons surprised him with a sleek black Cadillac CT4, despite his polite refusal. They insisted he accept it as a token of appreciation for taking on the position. On top of that, they provided him with a range of guns, ammunition, and various security gadgets to assist him in his new role.
Speaking of the Hopkinsons, there was certain someone who occupied his thoughts. Katara. She possessed a captivating beauty, and beneath her stubborn exterior, he recognized a fiery and passionate young woman. The memory of the soft touch of her hands in his made his heart flutter.
However, despite his desire to pursue something more, he prioritized her safety above all else and set aside his own emotions. He had a job to do, and allowing his feelings to interfere would only complicate matters. Moreover, he found it difficult to open up to someone new after the pain of his previous experience. Pushing aside these negative thoughts, he plugged in his playlist and began to groove to the music, continuing his journey.
He showed up thirty minutes later, pulling the vehicle into the driveway for parking. After grabbing a package from the backseat, he made his way to the door. Knocking, he patiently waited. Gyatso greeted him with a big smile after a few knocks. Aang returned the smile and embraced his guardian warmly.
"Glad to see you Aang! It's been a few days; I was a bit worried." Gyatso said.
"I know, I'm sorry I haven't been around much. I was setting up some stuff." Aang apologized. "I will tell you everything, I promise."
Gyatso glanced curiously at his ward, his eyes shifting to the driveway where an incredibly expensive car was parked. He let out a gasp.
"Whose car is that, Aang?" Aang nervously rubbed the back of his neck. "Heh, it's a long story. I'll fill you in on everything once we're inside."
Once they were indoors, Aang proceeded to share all the details. His feelings about just sitting around doing nothing, the type of job he got, and fact that he couldn't live there anymore.
"Aang, you really shouldn't have done this. I had everything under control," Gyatso said, looking at him seriously.
Aang was determined, "I had to do something. I couldn't just stand by while things were falling apart. You do so much for me, it's time I return the favor."
Gyatso sighed, "This kind of work can be dangerous, son. Just promise me you'll be careful."
"I will."
"So, when are you starting?" Gyatso asked.
Aang hesitated before replying, "I'm starting tomorrow. But I'll make sure to visit as often as I can," he added quickly.
Gyatso was shocked at how soon Aang would be leaving, but he knew his young ward was growing up and needed to be independent. It was a bittersweet moment for him.
"Okay, I'm proud of you. Just promise me you'll be careful," Gyatso replied, hugging Aang tightly.
"I will," Aang said as they parted ways. "Oh, and I want you to have this." He handed Gyatso the package containing the financial advance he had received for the job.
After much insistence on Aang's part, Gyatso finally accepted.
Aang spent the remainder of the day packing up his few belongings, including some suits and other items he purchased with the money he received. While packing, he stumbled upon a photo of his mother and clutched it tightly to his chest, feeling tears welling up. "This is all for you, mom," he murmured softly.
After packing, he and Gyatso spent the rest of the day watching TV, baking and just catching up.
""That's it, sis. No more boxes," Sokka announced.
"Thanks, Sokka. I owe you one," Katara replied gratefully.
"I'm starving. How about you make good on that favor now?" Sokka suggested.
Katara rolled her eyes. "No surprises there, you're always hungry. Here's some cash; go grab something to eat before the world ends."
Suki giggled, while Sokka pretended to be hurt by Katara's comment.
Suddenly, the door swung open and Toph entered with her bodyguard in tow.
"I'm here, bitches!" she exclaimed, dismissing her middle-aged escort to stand outside, much to his dismay.
"Well, that's my cue to leave," Sokka drawled. "I don't want to get caught up in your girly shenanigans."
Suki gave him a quick hug and kiss, while Katara pretended to gag, and Toph playfully punched him in the arm.
Once Sokka left, the girls greeted each other and began the daunting task of unpacking.
After a few days of careful planning by her parents, Katara was finally ready to move into her new penthouse. She was thrilled about the idea of living on her own, especially with the amazing view of the bustling city. She decided to invite her friends over to help her unpack and catch up.
So... I finally had a chance to meet the bodyguard the other day," Katara mentioned, attempting to start a conversation.
The girls immediately perked up upon hearing this, causing Katara to second guess bringing it up.
"Oh really?" Suki inquired. "What's he like?"
"He's actually quite different from what I expected. He has a great sense of humor and is very laid back," she replied.
"Sugar queen, I believe Suki was asking about his physical appearance," Toph smirked.
Katara felt her cheeks instantly flush at Toph's bold comment. She turned her face away, hoping to hide the blush that was creeping up.
"You're impossible, Toph," Katara grumbled.
"No, I'm just being logical," Toph winked.
"Well, if you're asking if he's handsome, then yes, he is," Katara admitted, fidgeting with her hands. "I'm just frustrated with my parents for hiring a complete stranger to live with me and invade my personal space. I barely know the guy," Katara expressed.
However, deep down, she couldn't deny the strange excitement she felt about having Aang live with her.
"Oh, come on. It's not like he's going to be sharing your bed," Suki reminded her.
"Unless you want him to," Toph teased.
"Ugh! You guys are the absolute worst," Katara exclaimed, throwing her hands up in exasperation.
"You can also try to get to know him so you're more comfortable with him around. Also, you must admit, it will be nice to have some eye candy around the penthouse."
Katara blushed slightly at her friend's comment.
"Let's remember this is a professional arrangement, guys. Can we get back to unpacking instead of discussing my new bodyguard?" She said, feeling a bit frustrated.
"You're the one who brought it up," Toph replied, a hint of amusement in her eyes.
Katara was about to answer when her phone rang. Her heart skipped a beat when she saw it was the subject of their very conversation.
She told them to be quiet while she answered. "Hello? Yeah, I'm home. Did my mom tell you where it is? Ok sure, see you soon." She hung up.
"Guys he's coming over with his belongings. Let's hurry up with the packing because I have to give him a tour of the house."
"Ooh, we have to meet him," Toph quipped.
"Yes, please. We promise not to embarrass you." Suki chimed in.
"I highly doubt that, but ok." Katara conceded.
Aang arrived an hour later with a single suitcase and a briefcase. He was wearing a black bucket cap, an orange hoodie with black fitted jeans. He had a warm smile on his face. Damn he looks good in everything she thought.
" Hello, Miss Katara, we meet again."
Katara was dressed in a captivating blue strap dress, adorned with a matching choker necklace, and her hair was elegantly styled in a tousled bun. Looking at her, Aang felt a little tongue-tied. However, he swiftly regained his composure.
"Yes, indeed we do." She responded, shaking his hand warmly and flashing a radiant smile. "Please, come inside." She invited, her gaze fixed upon his.
As he stepped into the apartment, he glanced around at the spacious, luxurious, and elegant interior. The predominant theme of blue made him think that it was her favorite color.
"These are my friends, Toph and Suki. They were helping me unpack." Katara said, breaking him from his thoughts.
Aang smiled. "Pleasure to meet you both." He said outstretching his hands to them.
Katara hoped her friends wouldn't embarrass her. She was let down however when Toph specially made a lot of crude remarks. Aang, however, seemed completely unfazed by their remarks. He simply smiled and introduced himself. He was polite and professional, but the girls could sense a hint of playfulness in his demeanor.
Finally having enough, Katara politely suggested they leave so she could show Aang around. They insisted she give them an update later about how everything goes.
"Sorry about my friends, they can be a bit..much." She apologized after her friends left.
"Don't worry about it, I'm used to it." He told her.
She giggled. "Really? You're used to people making suggestive remarks about your butt? Toph has no boundary." She shook her head.
Aang chuckled. "Trust me, I'm used to worse than that. But it's fine, she seems fun."
"Yea she also has a heart of gold once you get to know her." Katara added.
They spent a couple of hours exploring the apartment. Katara gave Aang a tour of his room and let him get settled. Afterwards, Aang assisted her in unpacking the rest of her belongings while engaging in light conversation.
"Thanks for helping me out. You really didn't have to," she expressed gratefully after they finished storing the final box.
"It's no problem, Katara. I wanted to," he replied softly, gazing directly into her eyes. His gaze then shifted to her lips.
She met his gaze and unconsciously began to lean in. Just as they were about to close the distance, the doorbell interrupted them, causing both to jump back, their cheeks flushing.
Katara rushed to answer the door. Were we really about to kiss? The moment kept replaying in her mind.
Shit. Shit. Shit. Aang looked at her retreating form and wanted to hit his head for being an idiot. Now she might think I'm a pervert. Although, she didn't seem to mind it.
He saw her returning and tried to recover himself.
"All that packing made me a bit hungry," he chuckled upon her return, trying to break the slight tension between them.
"Oh of course, Aang. I'll have the chef prepare something for you," Katara replied, avoiding eye contact.
"I don't want to be any trouble, I'm a vegetarian. I can prepare something for the both of us." He suggested.
Katara was equally surprised and impressed. Surprised that he was a vegetarian and impressed that he knew how to cook. Damn, she thought, is there anything this man can't do?
As much as she wanted to taste his cooking, she didn't want to bother him about it on the first night.
"Maybe another time Aang. It's been a long day, they can whip something up for us. It's not a problem."
Aang reluctantly agreed. He didn't grow up with the luxury of having his meals prepared for him and so felt bad for having someone else do such a simple task for him.
When the meals were prepared, they went out on the balcony to indulge. As they ate, they chatted and shared a few jokes, the awkwardness slowly fading away from earlier.
After dinner, they were both exhausted from the day's activities and decided to call it a night.
As they lay in bed, thoughts of the almost kiss lingered in their minds until they fell asleep.
Throughout the entire day, he had been observing her house from across the street. Ever since he caught sight of her with some random guy, he couldn't shake off the overwhelming emotions of jealousy and anger.
Once upon a time, he used to be the one safeguarding her, the one standing by her side. However, she had chosen this new individual over him, and it ate away at him incessantly. Suddenly, she became too famous to spend time with him.
His obsession with her had transformed into something more sinister. He had begun to stalk her, meticulously following her every move, and now he found himself spying on her. As he peered through his binoculars, he witnessed her laughing and talking with another man who wasn't him. His fists clenched tightly in fury, unable to bear the thought of her finding happiness without him.
Revenge became his sole focus. For days, he had been plotting his next move, and soon he would be prepared to set his plan into motion.
A/N: Here is a link to a picture of Aang and Katara by the talented Jyundee. Without the tattoo of course on Aang. Just something for you to visualize while reading./jyundeeARTs/status/1281440984828608512
Review Responses:
Ashley Barbosa: Thank you! I'm glad I got your attention with this story. You have been motivating me to write with your encouraging reviews. Yeah… the sparks are flying between them haha. I have a lot planned. Hopefully, I get to execute it well.
