Joesarty canon

you sigh, tilting the kettle to find the “on/off” button, “i’m literally just making us tea. can’t you go a minute without touching me?”

toph tuts, slotting her chin on your shoulder as she presses her hips against yours, “no, no. you don’t get it. your ankle’s sprained, so someone’s gotta hold you steady. mhm mhm, wouldn’t want you to fall over.”

“toph, if you were a dude, i’d feel your bulge poke my ass.”

she only shrugs, rubbing over your waist, “well, good thing i’m not a dude then.”

you roll your eyes, exasperated, “that’s.. not the point. at all. whatever, do you like peach tea?”

she scoffs, the hot puff of air hitting your face, “peach tea? what are you, twelve? don’t you have a more grown-up flavor?”

you huff, opening the upper cabinet to take two cups out, “fuck off, it’s the only one i like. it’s either that or my stash of tequila.”

“that’s too grown-up.”

“yeah, that’d be really bad if i gave a fuck,” you reach for your tea bags, “so unless you want to get drunk at three pm, just drink the— wait. that’s actually a great idea.”

she gives you a deadpan look, “great idea? getting drunk at three? jingle bells, are you an alcoholic?”

“not really, but talking to you makes me wish i was.” you ditch the cups, leaving her grasp to head for your stash.

she scratches her head, “you know, maybe you should just stick to the tea..”

“no,” you open the fridge, happily picking up a bottle, “i wanna get drunk, right now. you’re a fucking genius.”

“can’t say the same about you,” she quips, and you shoot her a glare, “you’re getting drunk with a stranger in your house. you can’t be that dumb, right?”

“oh no,” you walk back over to her, teasingly lifting her chin with the tip of your bottle, “are you gonna do bad things to me, stranger?”

she grabs the bottle, lowering it, making somewhat accurate eye contact with you, “are you willing to gamble on that?”

you scoff, moving away, “ew, that’s a disgusting reply.”

“it’s a realistic one.” her hand shoots out to grab your wrist, and the sudden seriousness in her gaze throws you off. “obviously, i wouldn’t do anything to you, but you can’t just invite any fucking stranger in and get drunk and vulnerable with them. how can you even be so sure of my intentions?”

“i—” you huff, an embarrassed blush creeping up your cheeks, “d-don’t lecture me about stranger safety, you idiot. obviously, i wouldn’t just let anyone in, i’m not fucking stupid. you.. you’re— ..”

“i’m?” she steps closer, invading your space, a small smirk tugging at her lips, “what is it? what makes me special to you?”

heat floods your face when she leans down to your height, her attractiveness making your nerves go haywire. you push her off with a flustered whine, “stop being weird! fine then, let’s just have the fucking tea!”

“there you go,” she pulls back with a chuckle, finally breaking character, “smart girl.”

you shakily dip your tea bags in your cups, still rattled by whatever the hell that was, “f-fuck you.”

“sure, maybe later.”

₊˚ ✧ ━━━━⊱⋆⊰━━━━ ✧ ₊˚

“eugh, this is nastyyy..” she drawls, sticking her tongue out in disgust as the tea swirls in her cup.

you silently glare at her, seated across from her, still flustered from her earlier stunt. why was she acting like nothing happened? the tension was insane, and now she’s just.. whining about tea. it was just like your bus incident, all that fighting just for her to.. casually brush it aside.

why was she like this?

“tastes like, hmm, warm water. seriously, it’s so bland.”

you scoff, shaking the thoughts off to take a sip of yours, “that’s what tea is, shut up.”

“you’re mad.” it’s not a question.

“i’m not.”

“why are you mad?”

you set your tea down on the table, a scowl on your face, “because you’re insufferable.”

“i won’t disagree,” her spoon clinks against the rim of her cup as she absentmindedly stirs it, “but how exactly?”

“you think you’re so smart,” you glare down at your poor, innocent drink, “you treat me like i’m some stupid, thoughtless girl. what was all that about earlier? you were spouting creepy bullshit at me, and y—”

“ahh,” she chuckles, propping her cheek on one hand as her free one reaches to tuck your hair behind your ear, “you’re still on about that?”

you groan, baffled by the audacity of the question, “why wouldn’t i be!? you literally—”

“wow, you’re pierced,” she sits up straight, smiling at the cold feel of the earrings she accidentally grazed, feeling them under her fingertips. “damn, really pierced.”

you blink, taken off guard again, then you blush harder, “see, you’re doing it again! whenever i try confronting you, y—you just keep distracting me by—”

“is that a daith?” she whistles, brushing over your inner piercings, “and a conch. jesus, i heard they hurt like hell. you’re one strong woman.”

your eye uselessly twitches at the relentless cut offs, and she seems to revel in your stammering.

“you— you’re so— ughhhh! i hate you so much!” you groan in defeat, clutching the right side of your head while curious fingers continue prodding at your left earlobe.

to your surprise, her other hand joins in to feel your other ear too, her thumbs caressing your cheeks while the rest of her fingers trace the piercings.

you flush completely red at the close contact, but she only offers a casual smile, “they both have different jewelry? that’s pretty cool. which one’s more pierced?”

“my.. right one.” you sigh, giving up on properly communicating with this stubborn fuck and deciding to indulge her instead. plus, you liked showing off your piercings, so you reluctantly found yourself eager to tell her more. “i sleep on my left side, so my right piercings heal better.”

she hums approvingly, now moving to your face, “an eyebrow piercing.. a nose stud, too.”

you swallow, slightly shy. this felt more intimate than you thought it’d be. after all, nobody had felt your piercings up like this — i mean, they could see them, so they had no reason to.

her thumb gently presses down on your plush bottom lip, her voice lowering down to a whisper, “what’s this one called again?”

“a.. vertical labret,” you whisper back, your heart doing a traitorous flip at the focused look on her face, “um, that’s about all, for my facial piercings.”

“i see,” her sightless eyes flit up to yours, gaze somewhat heavy, “where else are you pierced?”

you think the question over for a few seconds before answering, “honestly, too many places. i don’t know if i’ll be able to recount them all.”

“then don’t,” her voice is oddly low, and it makes your brows raise a little, puzzled. her thumb slowly leaves your lip, “let me feel them.”

okay, what the fuck.

she couldn’t be dense enough not to know what the hell she was implying, or not feel the tension brewing,

you stare at her, trying to catch the slightest crack in her expression, but she totally meant every word. and you couldn’t read her nor her intentions at all.

and yet, you couldn’t find it in yourself to refuse her, nor did you genuinely want to.

you slowly get up from your seat, the sting of your ankle helping you snap back a bit to reality, a hand on the table for support as you walk over to her seat.

she leans back, legs wide open for you to stand between them.

she huffs out a small laugh, her hands finding your adorned waist, “this is just like earlier. you stood between my legs just like this, then you told me off in front of everyone on that bus.”

you grunt, blushing again, “stop mentioning that. you deserved it, you looked like a pervert.”

“well,” svelte fingers fiddle with the jingly waist beads, sliding under them to feel the warm skin, “i think i look more like a pervert now.”

you hum, looking down at her, “well, i think you are a pervert.”

“so harsh,” her index lightly taps your hip, “anyway, about those piercings.”

“right,” you exhale softly, the air feeling a little hotter than usual.

“ohh, a belly piercing,” her thumb brushes over the heart-shaped jewel sitting in your navel. she smirks, “that’s a slutty pick.”

“it’s cute,” you argue, watching her hands splay flat over your waist, like she was trying to feel up as much exposed skin as she could.

“slutty and cute aren’t mutually exclusive,” she replies, and you completely agree.

her touch slides down to your lower back, and that pleasantly surprises her. “are these back dermals? i’ve never actually seen them up close before.”

you nod, “yeah. i mean that’d be pretty hard to do, especially with you being, you know, fucking blind.”

“there’s a special place in hell for you, bitch.” she pinches your hip, chuckling at the small squeak it pulls out of you. “now be quiet, let me feel the rest.”

…

“.. you do know there obviously aren’t any piercings on my ass, right?” you ask, glaring down at her as she fondles it again.

“i don’t know,” she squeezes the soft flesh, “for all i know, there could be.”

you roll your eyes, “well, there’s none. hands off.”

“do you even have any clothes on?” she feels down the bare back of your thighs, “where do you even find skirts this tiny? it literally only fits your ass, and barely.”

you smile widely, your chest puffing out with pride, “i know!”

her hands find the swell of your butt again, but this time she grabs it and pulls you down into her lap, straddling one of her strong thighs.

your eyes blow wide open, cheeks flushing red in bewilderment, “w-what are you doing!?”

“shh,” her breath hitting your neck only flusters you further, making your brain short-circuit. she bounces her thigh once to slide you closer, your chest now flush against hers, and the brief pressure makes your breath hitch.

you stare at her, speechless, the sweetest of smiles on her face.

“t-toph,” you squirm, trying to ignore the feel of the clothed muscle right under you, only separated by the thin material of her sweatpants, “don’t you think this is.. a little too..”

“hm?” she tilts her head, fingers flexing around your waist, “too what?”

you’re about to answer when she bounces her leg again, and you can’t help the startled moan that slips out of your lips.

“oh,” her brows raise, the pieces finally clicking, “right. i’m sorry, i forgot you’re basically naked. you must be feeling everything.”

the embarrassment was killing you.

you tried to desperately tug your skirt down, but the material was too little and too tight to do anything but uselessly bunch up around your hips.

“don’t be so nervous,” she caresses your lower back, condescendingly looking up at you, “you’re obviously not a virgin, so what are you so jumpy for?”

you huff, scandalized, “that has nothing to do with—”

“oh.” her eyes widen, then her grin does.

your brows furrow in confusion as she chuckles, “your nips are pierced too.”

you blink. “huh? what did you— ..”

you trail off, your eyes drifting down to where your chests met. fuck, your tits were completely squished up against hers, so the metal must have poked through.

“that’s slutty,” her hands slowly inch up your torso, mouths so close your breaths mingled with each other. “reaaal slutty. you sleep around, princess?”

you scoff, cheeks flushed from both embarrassment and reluctant arousal, “and? what about it?”

she smiles, leaning down to press a kiss to your neck, “so that’s why you’re so easy.”

“e-easy?” you bite back a whimper when she presses another one under your ear. your hands travel up to her hair, giving it a tug, offended, “you can’t call me that when you’re way easier.”

“oh, i know i am.” she pulls back, weirdly proud for what she was saying, “i’m the easiest bitch around the block. i’ve probably done every girl in the neighborhood.”

you huff, glaring down at her, “what a fucking slut.”

she shrugs, licking her own lips, “at least i’m not in denial.”

you part your lips to give her a snappy response back, but only a startled squeal escapes, her hands grabbing sudden handfuls of your tits.

“woah,” she chuckles, squeezing the flesh, “holy shit.”

“w—what the hell do you think you’re— mmh..”

you mewl, her fingers toying with the metal barbells through the thin crop top, rolling your peaked nipples as well.

she snickers, “yeah, if i wasn’t blind, i’d definitely be ogling. wow, you’re so hot. no wonder your personality’s so shit.”

you would’ve protested if she didn’t immediately start bouncing her leg up and down, the pace just right, the motion along with her skilled hands on your breasts dragging a string of shameless moans out of your lips.

“so fucking easy. do you do this with every stranger you invite in for tea?” she taunts when you start grinding down on her thigh yourself, your damp panties slowly soaking her pants.

“s-shut up,” you weakly huff out, closing your eyes to ignore the mocking grin on her face as you ride her thigh, your jewelry clinking with every roll of your hips.

one of her hands ditch your bouncing boobs, trailing down your waist to find where you needed her most, but you quickly grab her wrist.

“w-wait,” you glance at her through half-lidded eyes, panting, “are you sure about this? i-i’m not looking for a relationship, and i don’t want this to—”

“oh, you sweet thing,” she coos, coaxing another needy whine from you when she flicks your nipple, “you’re so, so considerate. don’t worry, hot stuff. i think i would probably block you if you asked me for a relationship.”

your grip slackens a little, and her fingers waste no time in breaching the hem of your skirt. she smiles, feeling your pace pick up, dragging your clit over the now damp sweats, “this is just what girls do together, isn’t it?”

your next moan is swallowed by an eager pair of lips, one hand fondling your pierced breast, the other finally sliding under your panties.

₊˚ ✧ ━━━━⊱⋆⊰━━━━ ✧ ₊˚

* the concept of situationship/fwb toph 😩 yeah i am NOT ditching this series anytime soon

and yes peach tea is the only flavor i like and NO i don’t care

“not to interrupt your daydreaming about me,” you jumped at her voice, startled. she smiled down at you, “i know i’m blind, but i’m not stupid. i can pick up on your silence and your heartbeat enough to understand you’re staring at me. plus, it’s what most of you sighted people do the first time you meet a blind person. kinda rude if i do say myself, and really repetitive.”

you blushed a deep shade of red, torn between shame and denial, “i—i wasn’t—”

“aw,” she cooed, rocking you in her arms like a baby, “you totally weren’t. i believe you, jingle bells.”

you groaned, squirming in her grasp, “you’re so annoying!”

“and you’re a shameless pervert.”

“p-pervert!?” your eyes widened, indignantly glaring up at her, “don’t try to flip this on me! i was just looking at your face, that’s not perv—”

“ah-ha!” she snickered, giving you a bounce in her arms, “now you admit you were looking. wow, i think you’re the worst liar i’ve ever seen. and i can’t even see!”

medically speaking, you could feel all the symptoms of a fucking brain aneurysm setting in throughout this conversation.

“you— you— you’re so— ugh! whatever!” you huffed in defeat, dropping your head on her shoulder, giving up on ever properly speaking to this woman.

she chuckled, hand flexing around your thigh, “i’m so what? so pretty, apparently, from how you spent the last five minutes drooling over me. am i reaaally that gorgeous? ouch!”

you pinched her torso, lifting your head to glare at her again, “you’re so insufferable. i’ve never met anybody who has made me want to end my life this much in the span of an hour.”

“oh stop it,” she fake moaned, the proudest of smiles on her face, “you’re turning me on.”

“i’m gonna— ugh! you know what? whatever!” you scoffed, cheeks flushed, taking your arms off her neck to cross them over your chest, “i’m not even gonna reply to you anymore. silence is the best answer to a dumbass.”

she hummed happily, “well actually, the saying is ‘silence is the best reply to a fool.’”

“does anybody like being around you?”

₊˚ ✧ ━━━━⊱⋆⊰━━━━ ✧ ₊˚

even though you were only a street away, the walk felt like hours, your sanity hanging by a string as thin as your thong.

you let out the biggest relieved sigh when the bakery’s sign finally came in full view, your building door close to it.

“just here,” you tap her arm for her to stop, “i live here, thanks.”

“you’re welcome,” she lowers you down, and you reluctantly miss the warmth of her thick arms around you. but if it came with the price of her unending quips, you were ready to sleep on an iceberg instead. camp there, even.

your good foot touches the ground first, your hand on her shoulder for balance. you tentatively try to take a step with your injured one, but the loud wail slipping out of your lips is enough for her to tug you back to her side again.

“small steps,” she pats your hip, “your ligament probably tore a bit. hopefully nothing bad, but you should still get it checked out properly later, or tomorrow.”

you sigh, irritated, “you’re right. ugh, i’m never wearing those heels again. how am i gonna go up all these stairs now?”

she returns your sigh, “right? if only there was somebody around who could carry you. it’d be great if they could magically spawn right now. one can only dream. if only..”

you roll your eyes, exasperated, “did nobody teach you how to speak? you can’t even offer help without your stupid sarcasm?”

“nevermind,” she lets go of you, and you squeal, having nothing to hold onto, plopping back down on your butt. she folds her arms behind her head, uninterested, “i don’t feel like helping a bitchy little thing like you.”

“are you seriously—”

“ah, sorry,” she rubbed her ear, smiling down at you, “i can’t hear bitch.”

you scoffed, baffled, “fuck you, then! fuck you, and fuck your help. you’re so rude. i’m not gonna beg you to pick me up. you can go fuck yourself.”

“sure then,” she shrugged, turning on her heel, and you felt panic seize your heart. there was nobody else around here! how long would you have to wait before someone else passes by to give you a hand?? your only option left was to crawl your way to the bakery you went to every morning, humiliating yourself in front of the staff who saw you everyday.. no way.

“w-wait!” the word leaves your mouth before you can even think, and you could just tell she had the biggest grin on her face even though her back was facing you.

she stopped in her tracks, and you felt heat flood your cheeks with embarrassment.

“mhm? want something?”

your fingers curled around the fabric of your skirt, looking down, “i.. i want you to.. pick me up again..”

“can’t hear you,” she walks back over to you, practically beaming, as she leans down to your height. “sorry, my hearing’s bad. could you speak up?”

what a bitch. she was blind, hearing was her strongest fucking sense. you had to bite your lip to refrain from cussing out her entire bloodline, only your earlier gratitude and current need were holding you back.

“i.. i said, i want you to pick me up again.”

she was all up in your face now, only a few inches separating you. she hums pensively, “hm, doesn’t sound like begging to me.”

your nails dig into your thighs through your clothes, the veins bulging out as you swallow your pride. “please, carry me.”

“my name’s toph,” she says it casually, like this was the best timing to exchange names. she grins, toying with a strand of your hair, “now say it all pretty for me. something like ‘oh, pretty please, beautiful toph. could you carry little ole me? please, toph, you’re the only one who can help me. i’m so helpless.’ “

the singy song lilt in her voice as she mocked you made your anger boil over. you grabbed her by her tank top, pulling her flush against you, your foreheads bumping.

you glared daggers into her, torn between slapping her or biting her smirk off, but she only tilted her head, smug as ever, “so? what will it be? i don’t have all day.”

“.. please, toph.” you grudgingly mumble, deciding to set your violent urges to the side until you were in a better position to backtalk her. “will you please carry me?”

she chuckles, and just like that, you’re back in her arms in seconds. “attagirl,” she croons down at you, “that wasn’t so hard now, was it? good job, jingle bells. i’m so proud of you. now, say ‘i’m your little bitch’.”

“don’t push it.”

₊˚ ✧ ━━━━⊱⋆⊰━━━━ ✧ ₊˚

she mercifully stays quiet as she takes you up to your floor. seriously, what were you thinking, renting an apartment on the fourth floor with no elevator available? you should’ve considered potential foot injuries, earthquakes, so many other things.. but oh well, the price and the view were good to pass up for a broke university student like you, and it honestly felt like an extension of you at this point, with all the years and money you spent decorating it.

when you finally make it, she gently sets you down on your good leg, holding you steady with one hand as you search for your house keys in your bag. you steal a brief glance at her, and despite her snappy attitude and how insanely annoying she was, you weren’t above common courtesy. after all, she did just carry you from your bus stop to your house. you could give credit where it was due.

you clear your throat, opening the door, “you can come in for a cup of tea, if you want. as a thank you.”

that earns you a soft squeeze on the hip. “i didn’t know you were into one night stands, jingle bells. but i wouldn’t say no to that.”

“nevermind,” you scoff, hand on the wall to support you as you make your way in ahead of her.

“don’t be like that. i’m just pulling your leg. well, clearly not your busted one.”

you completely ignore her, hearing the door shut behind her, before an appreciative whistle leaves her lips. “wow, you have a great apartment. it looks really gorgeous.”

you instantly perk up at that, buttered up in a second — you prided yourself on your taste, so compliments about it were your favourite, whether that be your taste in clothes, accessories, even your furniture. you turn to face her, excited. “ah, thank you so— ..”

you trail off, watching her bite back a laugh, confused. it takes you a second before the realization dawns on you. this asshole.

“tophhhh!! i hate you so fucking much!” you throw the nearest pillow at her, fuming, and she bursts out laughing, arms clutching her stomach as she doubles over.

she repeats your words, choking on her own giggles, “ ‘t-thank you so—’ ”

“get out!” you yell, the sound coming out all girlish and squeaky, flushed with embarrassment as you send a barrage of pillows her way.

the sight of her so exhilarated — literally rolling on the floor, her porcelain skin now a deep shade of red, unable to even properly speak through her laughter — eventually wore you down. you cracked a smile, your throws not stopping.

“s-shut up already!” you huffed out a small laugh, picking up the pillows that bunched up around her feet to hit her with them when your stock ended, “you’re the worst.”

she didn’t even bother protecting herself, flat on her back as she kicked her legs, and you joined in on her laughter too, giving her one last hit to the head before plopping down on her yourself.

“stop laughing!” you ordered, even though you were just as tickled, pinching her cheeks and stretching them out.

after a few minutes, your cackling finally subsided, leaving you both panting. you were still straddling her, her face marked by your long nails digging into her skin from your onslaught, as you tried to catch your breaths.

you flick her forehead, smiling down at her, “you’re not funny. you’re terrible, you don’t deserve my tea.”

“oh no,” her hands slide up to rub your hips, “not the tea.”

“but seriously though. thank you,” you brush away the mussy strands on her face, sweaty from all the movement, “you’re a cunt, but i do appreciate you going out of your way to help me out. so, thank you for that.”

“you’re so sappy, jingle bells.”

“you won’t get a reaction out of me. accept my thanks first.”

“i do.” she sighs, giving you a break, “you’re welcome, then.”

“good. i’m glad we’re on the same page.”

..

“.. also, toph?”

“mhm?”

“you do know that i can feel you groping my ass, right?”

she hums, giving it another unapologetic squeeze, “oh sorry, i’m blind. i thought it was.. your face.”

you roll your eyes, “my first impression of you was right, after all. you’re just a fucking pervert.”

“am nottt,” she quips, fondling the flesh without a care in the world, “you just have one hell of an ass on you. everyone else can see it, but i can’t. so be kind and let this poor, blind girl feel it.”

you slap the side of her head and get off her, limping off to the kitchen, using the walls as support, “i’m gonna piss in your tea. all nice and hot, just for you.”

you hear her shift on the floor behind you, “you promise?”

₊˚ ✧ ━━━━⊱⋆⊰━━━━ ✧ ₊˚

part 3 here.

* breathe if you love me ❤️

You shot up from the bed panting. Looking around and seeing a room you recognized this time. Your shared room with your boyfriend. You wiped the sweat from your forehead and patted your damp neck before catching Sokka's sleeping form in the corner of your eye.

Fuck. This is the third time this month you've had a wet dream about Zuko. The first two included Sokka but this time was oddly different. You felt...bad. You love Sokka with all your heart, but you don't know what's gotten into you lately. The more he talked about his adventures with Aang, he would hype Zuko up to the max. Like, one would think Zuko was the damn Avatar. It's weird. Sokka always had this sparkle in his eyes when he spoke of the Firelord. If you didn't know any better, you'd be convinced he was in lo-

"Mm...Zuko..."

You pause. You look at Sokka. Still sleeping. Um...that wasn't a tone of voice.

You stayed quiet for another five minutes to see if it'd happen again.

It did.

You gently shook him awake and yet, of course, he woke up like the world was on fire. Again.

"I didn't touch the fish!" He yelled, well sleepy yelled as he abruptly woke up. Sitting up and holding his head like it was pounding. "Ugh...that was so real."

"Sokka," you said, prompting him to turn to you.

"Are you okay?" He asked while trying to get a good look at you in the dark. "Why'd you wake me up?"

"Were you dreaming about Zuko?"

He paused.

"Uh...what makes you think that?"

"You said his name. Twice."

"I...have no clue what you are talking about."

"I had a dream about him too."

"...for real?" He asked, but his tone was like he was testing the waters.

"Yeah, uh...it was...interesting."

"Huh...my dream was interesting too."

You both just look at each other. You squinted.

"You were fucking him, weren't you?"

"Whaaaaat?" He sputtered. "I don't- I wouldn't...I can't even imagine-"

"I had a dream like that too."

He paused again. Now he squints.

"Was I also there?" He asked.

"Um...technically?"

"Technically??"

"In the first two-"

"First two?!"

"I'm sorry, okay? It's not like I told my brain to have the hots for your best friend!"

"No, wait, I'm saying 'first two' as in we've both dreamt about him multiple times!"

Pause.

"...was I in your dreams?"

"The first...four..."

"Four?!"

You couldn't help but laugh. It was like watching him have a crush all over again.

Yes, "all over again" because he refused to confess his love to you for the longest time despite having such a huge crush on you most of your childhood years.

"So, we both wanna fuck him, right?"

"Oh 100%."

"Oh thank heavens," you exhaled the breath that's been sitting in your chest the whole conversation. "I was so afraid to say something."

"Me too! I didn't want you to think I didn't love you anymore."

"Oh, Sokka," you brushed his hair from his face and cradled his cheek. "I don't think either one of us is capable of not loving the other."

"You're so right," he said with a dreamy sigh. The moonlight was finally shining in the room and he could get a better look at you.

"Besides," you continued while lifting the blankets so you could crawl in his lap. He sat up straighter to wrap those strong arms around you. "I think we could sway him."

"To..."

"Join the relationship."

He huffs and lets his head fall to your chest, squeezing your hips. "You...are a mind reader," he murmured. "Best girlfriend ever."

You chuckled and ran your fingers through his hair, intentionally not acknowledging the growing boner beneath you. "I know."

"Just...one question."

"Yeah?"

He lifted his head to look you in the eyes. "What was he doing?"

You didn't answer immediately but the growing smile you tried to hold back was so cute to him.

"Tell me!"

"He was eating me out."

"...was he better?"

"Than you?" You asked. He nods. "A small part of me wants to say yes just so you'll prove me wrong."

A smirk appeared on his lips before rolling over and laying you on your back. Attacking your face and neck with kisses as you lazily tried to push him off. He kissed lower. And lower. And lower. And lower.

You always know it's about to be something when he stops being goofy. Those soft, warm hands caressing your thighs while slowly kissing them. He hummed with each kiss and left a few hickeys just because he could. He gave this treatment to each thigh, not without kneading them first, and pulled your panties down just to watch you shiver. Sokka appreciates many things in life. But not much has ever compared to that pure satisfaction of eating pussy.

Your body never fails to react like it's the first time all over again. The way he uses half his weight to hold you down and lap away at you like this is the very last thing he will ever eat. The sensation of his tongue, warm and steady paced, had your fingers tangling in his hair like you were about to pull him off. But quite the contrary.

You could barely keep your eyes open.

You whimpered his name along with the very minimal movement you could muster. Breaths picking up. Heart jumping. Thighs trembling. Body stuttering.

Your hips rolled. Back arched. Legs squeezed as tight as they could around his head.

"Fuck, Sokka," you moaned. Biting your lip to not wake the others.

He let out a muffled, triumphant hum against your skin, his hands sliding from your thighs to grip your hips. His eyes a little dazed as he always made it clear he liked to eat you out mostly for his own enjoyment, verbally or physically. That and there was no way in hell he was going to let the idea that Zuko was better at cunnilingus cross your mind ever again.

Slick rushed out of you like a storm. Only Sokka had the ability to get this much of a reaction out of you and** your body. Your body trembled and jerked. Vision going white for a split second before your thighs closed around his head and...icicles shoot from your fingertips and onto the wall.

He backed up--not even bothering to wipe his mouth, why would he ever do that?--and looked back with an impressed scoff.

"Damn..." He mused. "I am good."

"Shut up," you said with a weak laugh. Chest heaving and all. "You're right, but shut up."

"What was that about Zuko again?"

"You and I both know I knew you were better."

"Yeah... just wanted to hear it from those pretty lips," he said as leaned up and kissed you. "Mm... tastes good, doesn't it?"

You playfully shoved him so he'd collapse next to you then laid your head on his chest. "What a ridiculous question," you muttered as your eyelids started to feel heavy. "You ask that every time."

"Hey, it's not my fault I like to share the wealth."

"Me too. Why do you think I suggested a throuple?"

"Great minds, baby," he murmured while starting to fall back asleep himself. "Great minds."

A few days later.

Sokka was hauling wood for one of the elders when he caught you in his peripheral playing with a group of kids. What started as water bending lessons turned into whatever made up game they came up with today. He couldn't help but stop and stare in adoration. You had one kid on your shoulders and two on both hips while carefully running around. The sound of kids giggling made his heart flutter.

When you suddenly stopped and turned in his direction by chance, you waved at him. Prompting the others to wave excitedly too. He snapped out of that effortless trance you always seem to put him in and did a little wave back before returning to his task.

Later on you were grilling the bucket of fish you took home earlier when you heard the front door open and close. A small smile appearing on your face as you heard his footsteps approaching. A warm pair of arms wrapped around you and you look down to see he didn't even take his parka off yet.

"So," he began. "What's the game plan?"

"For?"

"This throuple," he said. "Like how are we gonna convince him? He's pretty oblivious unless you're straight up with him."

"We're going to take it slow. Don't wanna scare the guy."

"And by take it slow you mean..."

"I don't know... maybe...seduction?"

"Seduction?"

"Any chance we get we subtly do something in front of him to get his attention. I know he's oblivious but should kickstart the process of getting him to notice us."

"That's... genius."

"I know, right?"

"So, like, what I find a reason for my shirt to be off and flex or something?"

"Whatever you were doing when you were trying to score me, do that."

He paused.

"Do you think I didn't notice what you were doing?"

"Babe!" He whined, embarrassed.

"What?"

He released you and blew out the fire before placing the hot tray on a nearby counter--ignoring your attempts to sound irritated (you could never).

"You mean to tell me the whole three years of me trying to impress you, you knew?"

"Sokka, I say this with love, you're the most obvious person I've ever met."

"But you looked so surprised when I finally asked you out!"

"In my defense, you weren't catching onto me flirting with you so I didn't think you were going to!"

"I thought you were just being nice!"

"Brushing up against your chest and asking you to get something off the top shelf when I could've easily gotten it is... being nice, to you?"

"You-" he sighed and ran his gloved hand over his face. You took both his hands and put them on the small of your back while you snaked your arms around him.

"I was so stoked the day you asked me out," you said in a softer tone and leaned your forehead against his. "It's crazy to think we were both so oblivious. Which is why I don't mind easing Zuko into this, you know?"

He hummed and planted a kiss to your lips. "We'll figure it out. Next time we get the opportunity to all be together, it's on. In the meantime..."

Sokka leaned forward to kiss you again. This time a little more intense. He shed his gloves and tossed them aside so he could feel your body against his palms. You hum this time against him and pull back only slightly.

"The fish, Sokka..."

"I know but your lips taste so much better..."

His lukewarm hands slide lower and lower until they're under your shirt. His mouth moving faster but you caught up in sync in no time. And just before he was about to lift it up, a knock came to the door.

You both stop abruptly and pull away to see if you were imagining things. When the knock came again he backed up and headed towards the door while you straightened your shirt.

"A letter came for you a few minutes ago," a woman at the door said as she handed it to him with a smile. When she left he closed the door with a skeptical look, not opening it until he joined you again.

"Who's it from?"

When it fully unfolded it didn't take long to spot the symbol at the bottom. It's from Aang! You were both skimming it line by line when you both gasped and exclaimed in sync.

"Reunion?!"

"There they are!" Katara called out from the dock. Sokka waved with both hands while you got the boat there faster with your bending. Once you arrived, you all hugged and caught up while heading to the capital.

Some time later, you shared lunch and ended up going to there park in the main part of city to meet Zuko.

"He should be here any minute now," Aang said as he looked around.

"Hey guys."

You all exclaimed from being startled and turned around to see him standing there like he didn't just appear out of thin air. Sokka and you exchanged looks before you put on a big smile and hugged Zuko first. A real** hug. It wasn't abnormal but any kind of hug typically catches him off guard.

"Oh- hello to you too," he said while hugging you back.

"It's good to see you again, Zuko," you mused.

"I agree!" Toph chimed in. Everybody took a pause and turned to her before she busted out laughing. "Ahh, never gets old."

"Alright," Aang clasped his hands with a big smile. "Now that we're all settled, I've already set up some activities over the course of the week. Everybody good to go?"

Everyone else agreed in unison. Sokka took your hand in his and subtly nudged your side. His own way of saying 'It's go time.'

First, it was messing around at the pool. You purposely swaying your hips everywhere you went. Slowly applying your sunscreen--leading Sokka to do the same over his biceps. Speaking of which, he couldn't stop himself from finding any reason to flex while the sun was beaming directly on him. There was even a point where either one of you kept splashing Zuko with a little water since he only had his legs in the pool. After some swift persuasion, pleading eyes, and light tugging on Zuko's massive arms, he finally gave in.

A few days later it was volleyball at the beach. Aang was off on the side soaking in the sun as he waited his turn while Toph played in the sand. It was you and Katara versus Zuko and Sokka. Nobody had synergy like you and Katara. You almost started to feel bad for them!

Almost.

The game ended with a set from Katara and you spiked the ball like you could fly. You two cheered and dipped under the net to playfully taunt them. You went straight to Zuko and did your classic victory dance, a sheen layer of sweat covering your body and the sun reflecting off your breasts. His eyes quickly darted away before he chuckled lightly and held his hands up in defeat. That bun he threw his hair into was only a motivator to you and Sokka's mission.

Another day goes by of a string of activities, which happened to include having to keep a few rowdy benders in check before they caused more harm. Most of the day went smoothly, but Zuko just wasn't taking the hint! Whatever you two agreed to do simply wasn't working.

By the evening, the group split in half to do their own thing. It was now or never because Zuko had to go back tomorrow. You were walking between them before stopping suddenly with a heavy sigh and they both turned to see what was up.

"You okay?" Zuko asked.

"I don't know how else to say this- Zuko, we want you."

He blinked. "...want me to what?"

Sokka facepalmed. "No- dude, like, we want to be with you."

Zuko looked at both of you with pure disbelief.

"So I wasn't going crazy..."

"You knew?!" You both said.

"I didn't want to assume. I thought you guys were just being more friendly than usual."

Now you facepalmed.

"Wait, so, what you're both saying is..."

"We want you to be in the relationship. Like a throuple," you said. "Or it could be just, like...sex only. Up to you."

"Sheesh, babe," Sokka muttered.

"What? It had to be said!"

"Okay, um, can I say something?" Zuko cut in.

"Please. Anything." You said.

"This might sound weird or be some kind of odd coincidence, but... it's just interesting you say that becauseI've been having these...dreams..." he paused to collect his thoughts. From his tone it didn't sound like these were just plain old dreams. You and Sokka met each other's gaze immediately before looking back at him.

"What kind of dreams...?" Sokka asked.

"It's a bit embarrassing to say aloud," he rubbed the back of his neck, unable to mask the growing redness in his cheeks and ears. Sokka gasped while you just started laughing.

"Wet dreams?" You prompted. "About us? No way!"

"I felt insanely bad every time," Zuko now covered his face with both hands. "Like, I thought it was so messed up to be thinking of my friends like this. Especially my best friend's girlfriend. But now, you're telling me that the both of you...want me."

"The dreams we had are actually what gave us the idea," you said.

Zuko peeked past his fingers sheepishly. "So you've been having those dreams too."

"Correct," Sokka said. "But you don't have to give us a definite answer yet. We're more than willing to take things slow if this is something you want."

"Yeah, we would never want to pressure you," you gently took his hands and lowered them from his face. "And we also know it's a lot to consider, being the Firelord and all, so. The ball's in your court."

Zuko looked down at your hands holding his. A small smile tugged at his lips; the rare kind when he felt deeply about something he hasn't been able to voice for a while.

"It is definitely something to think about," he said in a softer tone as he looked at Sokka, who had a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "But that doesn't mean we can't have some fun before I go back."

You smiled wide. Doing a little celebratory dance with Sokka--you couldn't help yourselves.

"I already have an idea in mind."

You held Zuko's hand firmly and playfully tugged him forward while heading to the hot springs.

"What about Sokka?"

"He's gonna tell the others that we'll be here for a while. He'll join us later."

A sigh of relief escaped both of you as you stepped into the steaming water, settling into the back corner even though you didn't really need to. At first, you were sitting next to each other. Your head on his shoulder, hand wrapped around his bicep. Then it slowly went from idle chitchat to murmurs. Looking into each other's eyes to gazes trailing past the neck. He couldn't stop staring at your chest and you couldn't stop staring at the scar on his chiseled torso. You licked your lips and tilted his face upwards before standing up so he can watch the water drip from your body, getting into his lap shortly after.

You sat closer to his knees so that he wasn't inside you yet. One of your hands dipped into the water to grab his shaft to see how he'd react. He let out a soft grunt; unable to look away. You gave him short, little pecks so he'd chase your lips. His uncertain hands gripping your waist as a signal that he desperately needed you to move forward and let him inside.

You happily obliged.

He hadn't felt warmth like this since childhood. The enveloping feeling of someone was so incredibly special and so rare for him. So much so that he unintentionally whined into your mouth. Eyes struggling to stay open. Warm, shaky hands holding you close.

You found a steady rhythm to keep the water from splashing. The steam rising around you both made the air thick, heavy with the scent of minerals. The presence of lust lost on no one. You were lost in making him feel good, but you had to admit, you didn't think he'd be packing like this. When it comes to who's bigger between him and Sokka... that's up to you to decide.

The only thing taking you out of it was a familiar pair of soft, calloused hands where Zuko's just were. His now at his sides as he tried to stay focused. The sight of Sokka standing behind you while simultaneously aiding you in riding him?! Heavens, he could die a happy man.

Sokka kissed along your shoulder as he kept on with this faster pace he set. His muscles rippling every time he lifted you. Your panting getting louder. This just spurred him on further.

"Moan his name," he murmured in your ear. You shivered at his words. No, his demand. "Go on. Look him in the eyes and moan his name like you do mine."

You moaned his name just like he wanted. Looking the Firelord right in those glossy golden eyes, yours half-lidded. Eyebrows knit together in concentration.

The water's temperature increased the closer you got to your climax. By this point, you could feel Zuko twitching inside. His eyes struggled to stay open. And what didn't help him not fully lose himself was Sokka moving from behind you to sit next to him and mutter in his ear. You had no clue what he could be saying, but whatever it is made his hips jerk upwards. Steam started emitting the air around you, but you quickly understood it wasn't from the hot springs getting hotter. It was coming from Zuko's skin.

Zuko cursed as you picked up the pace just a little. Sokka was busy stroking himself underwater while you both chased your highs. It wasn't even to get off. He just enjoyed the feeling of being included and watching the love his life have the time of her life.

"You feel that squeezing sensation?" He asked. This time a bit louder so you could hear. "That means she's close. And soon you'll be too. Cause she's just that good."

"Damn it, Sokka," he grunted and panted. His hands even shakier than before as they found your waist again. Sokka hummed in disapproval.

"Say her name," he said. Like it was a direct order from a general. "It isn't just me, big guy...it's her too."

"I'm gonna- fuck- I'm gonna cum," Zuko said; nearly whined. You leaned in closer to kiss and suck on his neck while Sokka got the idea to do the same to the other. This is the most simulation Zuko has ever had in his life. Not a single big fight he's fought amounted to anything like this.

He thrusted his hips four more times and there it was. Instinctually lifting you from his lap so he didn't accidentally cum inside. Zuko moan and groaned your name like it was an ancient proverb. The more he came, the more steam.

You, on the other hand, were getting hit with blurred vision and bodily twitches. Like a small earthquake erupted through your bones.

The sight was something to behold. Slick, cum, and water coating the back of your thighs. Zuko holding onto you as he calmed down; blushing from his cheeks to his shoulders. Sokka looking just as satisfied as you both.

He helped you get up so you could sit on the other side of Zuko. The three of you sat there in silence to process what just went down, and still to calm your nerves because, damn.

You took one of his hands and Sokka took the other. The water returning to its normal temperature since you were cooling down by now.

You shot up from the bed panting. Looking around and seeing a room you recognized this time. Your shared room with your boyfriend. You wiped the sweat from your forehead and patted your damp neck before catching Sokka's sleeping form in the corner of your eye.

Fuck. This is the third time this month you've had a wet dream about Zuko. The first two included Sokka but this time was oddly different. You felt...bad. You love Sokka with all your heart, but you don't know what's gotten into you lately. The more he talked about his adventures with Aang, he would hype Zuko up to the max. Like, one would think Zuko was the damn Avatar. It's weird. Sokka always had this sparkle in his eyes when he spoke of the Firelord. If you didn't know any better, you'd be convinced he was in lo-

"Mm...Zuko..."

You pause. You look at Sokka. Still sleeping. Um...that wasn't a tone of voice.

You stayed quiet for another five minutes to see if it'd happen again.

It did.

You gently shook him awake and yet, of course, he woke up like the world was on fire. Again.

"I didn't touch the fish!" He yelled, well sleepy yelled as he abruptly woke up. Sitting up and holding his head like it was pounding. "Ugh...that was so real."

"Sokka," you said, prompting him to turn to you.

"Are you okay?" He asked while trying to get a good look at you in the dark. "Why'd you wake me up?"

"Were you dreaming about Zuko?"

He paused.

"Uh...what makes you think that?"

"You said his name. Twice."

"I...have no clue what you are talking about."

"I had a dream about him too."

"...for real?" He asked, but his tone was like he was testing the waters.

"Yeah, uh...it was...interesting."

"Huh...my dream was interesting too."

You both just look at each other. You squinted.

"You were fucking him, weren't you?"

"Whaaaaat?" He sputtered. "I don't- I wouldn't...I can't even imagine-"

"I had a dream like that too."

He paused again. Now he squints.

"Was I also there?" He asked.

"Um...technically?"

"Technically??"

"In the first two-"

"First two?!"

"I'm sorry, okay? It's not like I told my brain to have the hots for your best friend!"

"No, wait, I'm saying 'first two' as in we've both dreamt about him multiple times!"

Pause.

"...was I in your dreams?"

"The first...four..."

"Four?!"

You couldn't help but laugh. It was like watching him have a crush all over again.

Yes, "all over again" because he refused to confess his love to you for the longest time despite having such a huge crush on you most of your childhood years.

"So, we both wanna fuck him, right?"

"Oh 100%."

"Oh thank heavens," you exhaled the breath that's been sitting in your chest the whole conversation. "I was so afraid to say something."

"Me too! I didn't want you to think I didn't love you anymore."

"Oh, Sokka," you brushed his hair from his face and cradled his cheek. "I don't think either one of us is capable of not loving the other."

"You're so right," he said with a dreamy sigh. The moonlight was finally shining in the room and he could get a better look at you.

"Besides," you continued while lifting the blankets so you could crawl in his lap. He sat up straighter to wrap those strong arms around you. "I think we could sway him."

"To..."

"Join the relationship."

He huffs and lets his head fall to your chest, squeezing your hips. "You...are a mind reader," he murmured. "Best girlfriend ever."

You chuckled and ran your fingers through his hair, intentionally not acknowledging the growing boner beneath you. "I know."

"Just...one question."

"Yeah?"

He lifted his head to look you in the eyes. "What was he doing?"

You didn't answer immediately but the growing smile you tried to hold back was so cute to him.

"Tell me!"

"He was eating me out."

"...was he better?"

"Than you?" You asked. He nods. "A small part of me wants to say yes just so you'll prove me wrong."

A smirk appeared on his lips before rolling over and laying you on your back. Attacking your face and neck with kisses as you lazily tried to push him off. He kissed lower. And lower. And lower. And lower.

You always know it's about to be something when he stops being goofy. Those soft, warm hands caressing your thighs while slowly kissing them. He hummed with each kiss and left a few hickeys just because he could. He gave this treatment to each thigh, not without kneading them first, and pulled your panties down just to watch you shiver. Sokka appreciates many things in life. But not much has ever compared to that pure satisfaction of eating pussy.

Your body never fails to react like it's the first time all over again. The way he uses half his weight to hold you down and lap away at you like this is the very last thing he will ever eat. The sensation of his tongue, warm and steady paced, had your fingers tangling in his hair like you were about to pull him off. But quite the contrary.

You could barely keep your eyes open.

You whimpered his name along with the very minimal movement you could muster. Breaths picking up. Heart jumping. Thighs trembling. Body stuttering.

Your hips rolled. Back arched. Legs squeezed as tight as they could around his head.

"Fuck, Sokka," you moaned. Biting your lip to not wake the others.

He let out a muffled, triumphant hum against your skin, his hands sliding from your thighs to grip your hips. His eyes a little dazed as he always made it clear he liked to eat you out mostly for his own enjoyment, verbally or physically. That and there was no way in hell he was going to let the idea that Zuko was better at cunnilingus cross your mind ever again.

Slick rushed out of you like a storm. Only Sokka had the ability to get this much of a reaction out of you and** your body. Your body trembled and jerked. Vision going white for a split second before your thighs closed around his head and...icicles shoot from your fingertips and onto the wall.

He backed up--not even bothering to wipe his mouth, why would he ever do that?--and looked back with an impressed scoff.

"Damn..." He mused. "I am good."

"Shut up," you said with a weak laugh. Chest heaving and all. "You're right, but shut up."

"What was that about Zuko again?"

"You and I both know I knew you were better."

"Yeah... just wanted to hear it from those pretty lips," he said as leaned up and kissed you. "Mm... tastes good, doesn't it?"

You playfully shoved him so he'd collapse next to you then laid your head on his chest. "What a ridiculous question," you muttered as your eyelids started to feel heavy. "You ask that every time."

"Hey, it's not my fault I like to share the wealth."

"Me too. Why do you think I suggested a throuple?"

"Great minds, baby," he murmured while starting to fall back asleep himself. "Great minds."

A few days later.

Sokka was hauling wood for one of the elders when he caught you in his peripheral playing with a group of kids. What started as water bending lessons turned into whatever made up game they came up with today. He couldn't help but stop and stare in adoration. You had one kid on your shoulders and two on both hips while carefully running around. The sound of kids giggling made his heart flutter.

When you suddenly stopped and turned in his direction by chance, you waved at him. Prompting the others to wave excitedly too. He snapped out of that effortless trance you always seem to put him in and did a little wave back before returning to his task.

Later on you were grilling the bucket of fish you took home earlier when you heard the front door open and close. A small smile appearing on your face as you heard his footsteps approaching. A warm pair of arms wrapped around you and you look down to see he didn't even take his parka off yet.

"So," he began. "What's the game plan?"

"For?"

"This throuple," he said. "Like how are we gonna convince him? He's pretty oblivious unless you're straight up with him."

"We're going to take it slow. Don't wanna scare the guy."

"And by take it slow you mean..."

"I don't know... maybe...seduction?"

"Seduction?"

"Any chance we get we subtly do something in front of him to get his attention. I know he's oblivious but should kickstart the process of getting him to notice us."

"That's... genius."

"I know, right?"

"So, like, what I find a reason for my shirt to be off and flex or something?"

"Whatever you were doing when you were trying to score me, do that."

He paused.

"Do you think I didn't notice what you were doing?"

"Babe!" He whined, embarrassed.

"What?"

He released you and blew out the fire before placing the hot tray on a nearby counter--ignoring your attempts to sound irritated (you could never).

"You mean to tell me the whole three years of me trying to impress you, you knew?"

"Sokka, I say this with love, you're the most obvious person I've ever met."

"But you looked so surprised when I finally asked you out!"

"In my defense, you weren't catching onto me flirting with you so I didn't think you were going to!"

"I thought you were just being nice!"

"Brushing up against your chest and asking you to get something off the top shelf when I could've easily gotten it is... being nice, to you?"

"You-" he sighed and ran his gloved hand over his face. You took both his hands and put them on the small of your back while you snaked your arms around him.

"I was so stoked the day you asked me out," you said in a softer tone and leaned your forehead against his. "It's crazy to think we were both so oblivious. Which is why I don't mind easing Zuko into this, you know?"

He hummed and planted a kiss to your lips. "We'll figure it out. Next time we get the opportunity to all be together, it's on. In the meantime..."

Sokka leaned forward to kiss you again. This time a little more intense. He shed his gloves and tossed them aside so he could feel your body against his palms. You hum this time against him and pull back only slightly.

"The fish, Sokka..."

"I know but your lips taste so much better..."

His lukewarm hands slide lower and lower until they're under your shirt. His mouth moving faster but you caught up in sync in no time. And just before he was about to lift it up, a knock came to the door.

You both stop abruptly and pull away to see if you were imagining things. When the knock came again he backed up and headed towards the door while you straightened your shirt.

"A letter came for you a few minutes ago," a woman at the door said as she handed it to him with a smile. When she left he closed the door with a skeptical look, not opening it until he joined you again.

"Who's it from?"

When it fully unfolded it didn't take long to spot the symbol at the bottom. It's from Aang! You were both skimming it line by line when you both gasped and exclaimed in sync.

"Reunion?!"

"There they are!" Katara called out from the dock. Sokka waved with both hands while you got the boat there faster with your bending. Once you arrived, you all hugged and caught up while heading to the capital.

Some time later, you shared lunch and ended up going to there park in the main part of city to meet Zuko.

"He should be here any minute now," Aang said as he looked around.

"Hey guys."

You all exclaimed from being startled and turned around to see him standing there like he didn't just appear out of thin air. Sokka and you exchanged looks before you put on a big smile and hugged Zuko first. A real** hug. It wasn't abnormal but any kind of hug typically catches him off guard.

"Oh- hello to you too," he said while hugging you back.

"It's good to see you again, Zuko," you mused.

"I agree!" Toph chimed in. Everybody took a pause and turned to her before she busted out laughing. "Ahh, never gets old."

"Alright," Aang clasped his hands with a big smile. "Now that we're all settled, I've already set up some activities over the course of the week. Everybody good to go?"

Everyone else agreed in unison. Sokka took your hand in his and subtly nudged your side. His own way of saying 'It's go time.'

First, it was messing around at the pool. You purposely swaying your hips everywhere you went. Slowly applying your sunscreen--leading Sokka to do the same over his biceps. Speaking of which, he couldn't stop himself from finding any reason to flex while the sun was beaming directly on him. There was even a point where either one of you kept splashing Zuko with a little water since he only had his legs in the pool. After some swift persuasion, pleading eyes, and light tugging on Zuko's massive arms, he finally gave in.

A few days later it was volleyball at the beach. Aang was off on the side soaking in the sun as he waited his turn while Toph played in the sand. It was you and Katara versus Zuko and Sokka. Nobody had synergy like you and Katara. You almost started to feel bad for them!

Almost.

The game ended with a set from Katara and you spiked the ball like you could fly. You two cheered and dipped under the net to playfully taunt them. You went straight to Zuko and did your classic victory dance, a sheen layer of sweat covering your body and the sun reflecting off your breasts. His eyes quickly darted away before he chuckled lightly and held his hands up in defeat. That bun he threw his hair into was only a motivator to you and Sokka's mission.

Another day goes by of a string of activities, which happened to include having to keep a few rowdy benders in check before they caused more harm. Most of the day went smoothly, but Zuko just wasn't taking the hint! Whatever you two agreed to do simply wasn't working.

By the evening, the group split in half to do their own thing. It was now or never because Zuko had to go back tomorrow. You were walking between them before stopping suddenly with a heavy sigh and they both turned to see what was up.

"You okay?" Zuko asked.

"I don't know how else to say this- Zuko, we want you."

He blinked. "...want me to what?"

Sokka facepalmed. "No- dude, like, we want to be with you."

Zuko looked at both of you with pure disbelief.

"So I wasn't going crazy..."

"You knew?!" You both said.

"I didn't want to assume. I thought you guys were just being more friendly than usual."

Now you facepalmed.

"Wait, so, what you're both saying is..."

"We want you to be in the relationship. Like a throuple," you said. "Or it could be just, like...sex only. Up to you."

"Sheesh, babe," Sokka muttered.

"What? It had to be said!"

"Okay, um, can I say something?" Zuko cut in.

"Please. Anything." You said.

"This might sound weird or be some kind of odd coincidence, but... it's just interesting you say that becauseI've been having these...dreams..." he paused to collect his thoughts. From his tone it didn't sound like these were just plain old dreams. You and Sokka met each other's gaze immediately before looking back at him.

"What kind of dreams...?" Sokka asked.

"It's a bit embarrassing to say aloud," he rubbed the back of his neck, unable to mask the growing redness in his cheeks and ears. Sokka gasped while you just started laughing.

"Wet dreams?" You prompted. "About us? No way!"

"I felt insanely bad every time," Zuko now covered his face with both hands. "Like, I thought it was so messed up to be thinking of my friends like this. Especially my best friend's girlfriend. But now, you're telling me that the both of you...want me."

"The dreams we had are actually what gave us the idea," you said.

Zuko peeked past his fingers sheepishly. "So you've been having those dreams too."

"Correct," Sokka said. "But you don't have to give us a definite answer yet. We're more than willing to take things slow if this is something you want."

"Yeah, we would never want to pressure you," you gently took his hands and lowered them from his face. "And we also know it's a lot to consider, being the Firelord and all, so. The ball's in your court."

Zuko looked down at your hands holding his. A small smile tugged at his lips; the rare kind when he felt deeply about something he hasn't been able to voice for a while.

"It is definitely something to think about," he said in a softer tone as he looked at Sokka, who had a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "But that doesn't mean we can't have some fun before I go back."

You smiled wide. Doing a little celebratory dance with Sokka--you couldn't help yourselves.

"I already have an idea in mind."

You held Zuko's hand firmly and playfully tugged him forward while heading to the hot springs.

"What about Sokka?"

"He's gonna tell the others that we'll be here for a while. He'll join us later."

A sigh of relief escaped both of you as you stepped into the steaming water, settling into the back corner even though you didn't really need to. At first, you were sitting next to each other. Your head on his shoulder, hand wrapped around his bicep. Then it slowly went from idle chitchat to murmurs. Looking into each other's eyes to gazes trailing past the neck. He couldn't stop staring at your chest and you couldn't stop staring at the scar on his chiseled torso. You licked your lips and tilted his face upwards before standing up so he can watch the water drip from your body, getting into his lap shortly after.

You sat closer to his knees so that he wasn't inside you yet. One of your hands dipped into the water to grab his shaft to see how he'd react. He let out a soft grunt; unable to look away. You gave him short, little pecks so he'd chase your lips. His uncertain hands gripping your waist as a signal that he desperately needed you to move forward and let him inside.

You happily obliged.

He hadn't felt warmth like this since childhood. The enveloping feeling of someone was so incredibly special and so rare for him. So much so that he unintentionally whined into your mouth. Eyes struggling to stay open. Warm, shaky hands holding you close.

You found a steady rhythm to keep the water from splashing. The steam rising around you both made the air thick, heavy with the scent of minerals. The presence of lust lost on no one. You were lost in making him feel good, but you had to admit, you didn't think he'd be packing like this. When it comes to who's bigger between him and Sokka... that's up to you to decide.

The only thing taking you out of it was a familiar pair of soft, calloused hands where Zuko's just were. His now at his sides as he tried to stay focused. The sight of Sokka standing behind you while simultaneously aiding you in riding him?! Heavens, he could die a happy man.

Sokka kissed along your shoulder as he kept on with this faster pace he set. His muscles rippling every time he lifted you. Your panting getting louder. This just spurred him on further.

"Moan his name," he murmured in your ear. You shivered at his words. No, his demand. "Go on. Look him in the eyes and moan his name like you do mine."

You moaned his name just like he wanted. Looking the Firelord right in those glossy golden eyes, yours half-lidded. Eyebrows knit together in concentration.

The water's temperature increased the closer you got to your climax. By this point, you could feel Zuko twitching inside. His eyes struggled to stay open. And what didn't help him not fully lose himself was Sokka moving from behind you to sit next to him and mutter in his ear. You had no clue what he could be saying, but whatever it is made his hips jerk upwards. Steam started emitting the air around you, but you quickly understood it wasn't from the hot springs getting hotter. It was coming from Zuko's skin.

Zuko cursed as you picked up the pace just a little. Sokka was busy stroking himself underwater while you both chased your highs. It wasn't even to get off. He just enjoyed the feeling of being included and watching the love his life have the time of her life.

"You feel that squeezing sensation?" He asked. This time a bit louder so you could hear. "That means she's close. And soon you'll be too. Cause she's just that good."

"Damn it, Sokka," he grunted and panted. His hands even shakier than before as they found your waist again. Sokka hummed in disapproval.

"Say her name," he said. Like it was a direct order from a general. "It isn't just me, big guy...it's her too."

"I'm gonna- fuck- I'm gonna cum," Zuko said; nearly whined. You leaned in closer to kiss and suck on his neck while Sokka got the idea to do the same to the other. This is the most simulation Zuko has ever had in his life. Not a single big fight he's fought amounted to anything like this.

He thrusted his hips four more times and there it was. Instinctually lifting you from his lap so he didn't accidentally cum inside. Zuko moan and groaned your name like it was an ancient proverb. The more he came, the more steam.

You, on the other hand, were getting hit with blurred vision and bodily twitches. Like a small earthquake erupted through your bones.

The sight was something to behold. Slick, cum, and water coating the back of your thighs. Zuko holding onto you as he calmed down; blushing from his cheeks to his shoulders. Sokka looking just as satisfied as you both.

He helped you get up so you could sit on the other side of Zuko. The three of you sat there in silence to process what just went down, and still to calm your nerves because, damn.

You took one of his hands and Sokka took the other. The water returning to its normal temperature since you were cooling down by now.

She needs to feel your throat move, needs to hear you cry out as clearly as possible. She needs to have you close, the current position with the whole of her body pressed to your back, breasts flattened against the curve of your spine while she pounds her strong fingers in and out of your leaking hole is not nearly enough.

She can feel your heightened pulse and rapid heartbeat course through her veins, feeling every reaction and clench around her fingers before you can even realise the effect her movements have on you.

You moan out her name when she curls her fingers in just the right way, hitting that soft spongy spot inside you that has your brain leaking out of your ears, hands tightening their grip on the sheet frantically. 

She smirks behind you “That’s right, baby. Show me how good I’m taking care of you. You like this, don’t you?”

Her cocky tone only makes the heat deep inside you worse, causing flames to lick up your whole body.

When you don’t respond, too focused on the sensation of her skilled fingers moving to add delicious pressure to your clit, she scoffs and moves her hand, previously tasked with roaming over whatever skin she can reach, committing every bump and dip, every goosebump to memory, up to your head.

Toph taps the side of your face and moves her fingers back inside you while you gasp, muttering “up” to get you to lift your head and let all your pretty noises float into the room, but all her commanding tone manages to accomplish is eliciting another sharp moan, hidden away but still noticed by her.

In a quick, strong movement she slides her arm under your throat and pulls you to press against her, effectively putting you into a headlock. Her strong biceps flexes around your throat, letting her feel every held breath and flutter of your pulse directly on her skin. 

The feeling of her body fully engrossing yours, face in the crook of your neck, chest pressed to your back, fingers curled deep inside you and biceps firmly around your throat, consumes you fully. You rut back into her, hungry to amplify your pleasure impossibly while your pussy clenches helplessly around her long fingers, still creating a steady rhythm.

She lets out a low chuckle, hot breath hitting your ear “I mean… I know that I am strong, but I didn’t know that you’re that desperate for me”

She flexes her bicep experimentally, immediately sensing the way your body seems to reach such heightened levels of pleasure that you can’t even register the way tears start to gather in your eyes as you cry out, keening breathlessly. “You like this, don't you, baby?”

You really can’t do anything but moan out again, letting your teeth sink into her biceps as the coil in your core tightens, ready to snap at any moment, at her deprecating tone.

Toph flexes again as a response, letting out her own moan from the way your teeth clamp down helplessly, seeking relief anywhere you can get. The pain is delicious and she rewards you by curling up her fingers in the way she knows will finally send you over the edge.

You let a sharp whine, muffled by her muscles, clenching and spasming as her fingers slow down, carrying you through the wave of pleasure flowing through you. Your whole body tenses as the world seems to sharpen to the point of your satisfaction, cursing through all of you. Nothing exists but the flames of pleasure licking up your nerves, before dying down as you finally manage to catch your breath.

You slowly unclench your jaw and blink away the tears inside your eyes as her arm loosens around your neck, the reminder of your current position almost getting another pitiful moan out of you.

Toph’s fingers still inside you while you heave in her arms, muscles useless and brain still unable to think anything but her name. “Fuck, Toph.”

She sweetly kisses the side of your head while humming gently. “You did so good, baby. So desperate for my muscles, huh?”

You hum blissfully, not in any state of mind to disagree with her words at the moment. Bliss washes over you, muscles relaxing and breathing finally evening out when she suddenly starts to move again, “Toph!” You cry out in surprise when the bliss fades into a different type of pleasure, mixed with the sharp pain of overstimulation after going through your third orgasm of the night. Only the first on her fingers, though.

“What? You didn’t think we were done, right? We’re not even close to my record, yet.”

“Something like that.” He settles on instead.

”Man, you’re lucky.” Sokka sighs in discontent. “All I got when I was younger—was a bunch of pulling and tugging into the tightest bun possible.”

Zuko blinks at the information before casting Sokka a side-eye. “And you wanted me to ask Katara for help?”

Sokka grins sheepishly. “I never said it didn’t come without sacrifice.”

If Zuko had known his brief mention of having a hairstylist would backfire on him when his hair becomes a topic of conversation, he would have just kept his mouth shut and dealt with the teasing.

His hair has become an unbearably, obvious distraction by the end of their mission. Every wash during stay-in nights at inns has led to its own self-assured destruction, with each shower complicating the knots, wounding them tighter and tighter till the point of no return.

“Looking at that makes me grateful I don’t have hair.” Aang winces.

“Why?” Toph whips her head around, eyes widening in curiosity. “What does it look like? Describe it to me.”

“A bird’s nest. A genuine nightmare.” Sokka snorts. “You might have to shave it off and start over.”

“We’ll be matching.” Aang grins.

“It’s barely in-tact. Hanging by a literal loose rubber.” Katara sighs, hand reaching out. “Let me fix it.”

“Don’t.” Zuko’s voice breaks out—defensive and panicked, before he can stop it.

Everyone freezes at his sudden outburst.

Katara pauses—retracting her hand, brows pulling together in confusion. “You prefer not being able to see past your bangs?”

Zuko pushes his bangs back, and his fingers catch once more in the knots. “See? It’s perfectly cooperative.”

Sokka scoffs. “Yeah, at least try getting your hands untangled from your hair before convincing us.”

“We’ve almost reached.” Zuko sighs in exasperation. “It’ll be sorted once we’ve landed. I don’t mind the mess, so just—look away if it bothers you.”

“You keep mentioning that.” Sokka mutters, catching onto Zuko’s slither of frustration. “What’s waiting for you back home? A five-star hair stylist to sort out that monstrosity?”

Zuko doesn’t answer, gaze lingering on the map. Anytime now, he estimates they’ll be landing within the hour. He can only hope his impatience isn’t obvious to the others, not when he’s barely restraining the bouncing of his leg in anticipation. Partly from the mess that was his hair, but mostly because he’s itching for your warmth, your hands unravelling his knots, your nails scratching into his scalp as you part his hair into sections.

He misses you… desperately. Time spent away from you, and the constant reminder that he can barely function without you being a part of his daily routine—till the point where he’s forgotten how to take care of his own hair and yet, still automatically refuses to let anyone assist him? Yeah, he’s done for.

“Hey! Earth to Zuko?” Sokka’s hand waves in front of his eyes.

Zuko barely restrains a groan. “What?”

“I was asking if I could get a free, personal booking with your hairstylist—”

“Absolutely not.” Zuko’s gut flares with an irrational temper, something he’s long retired since his youth. Or at least, he had assumed so that this familiar fury had been left behind in the past. Yet, just the thought of you working on anyone else’s hair except for his… leaves a dreaded, sinking feeling in his gut.

“Yikes, possessive much?”

He shrugs noncommittally. Maybe he was being overly protective. His self-control always slipped when it came to you, or the thought of anything endangering the soft, rare intimacy and vulnerability he only shared with you. Your soft hums, your random ramblings as you did his hair—it was all precious to him. He’ll send a talented hairstylist to Sokka if need be, but in regards to you? Is it truly a selfish wish, if he wanted to keep you all to himself?

A large crowd has gathered for Team Avatar, mostly for Aang, who has grown in popularity—especially among children. The cheering, the excitement all falls flat on Zuko’s ears. His gaze fleets over the numerous unfamiliar faces in search of one in particular.

His breath stops when he spots you, waving your hand enthusiastically so you’ll catch his eye. Not that you needed to, how could he not notice you? You’ve been the singular anchor that his thoughts have been warping around throughout the entire mission.

It doesn’t even occur to him that there’s still people around—or that the sight of the Fire Lord running towards a stranger in a crowd is unbecoming. Who cares if they’re staring—or if they notice the absolute unkempt chaos that was his hair.

When you’re within reach, his hands make contact with your waist and he wastes no time pulling you into his embrace.

“Zuko!” You gasp, fingers coming up to caress the loose strands come loose from his loose bun as you hang onto him. “Your hair—it’s a mess!”

He doesn’t care, still gripping you tight in his arms. It’s been awhile since he’s gone this long without you near—that the very sight of you consumed his rationality.

“I couldn’t.” He mutters, burying his nose into the crook of your neck.

“Couldn’t what?” You whisper, fingers resting softly on the nape of his neck, and he sighs at the touch.

“Let others take care of it.” He admits shamefully, twisting his head so you could hear him more clearly. “…That’s your duty.”

Your lips part and close, processing his admission. After a moment, you let out an amused chuckle. “You missed me taking care of your hair?”

“Yeah.” He lets out a breath. “It was driving me crazy.”

“The hair?” You guess.

“Not being able to see you.” He answers honestly. There was more, there always was when it came to you. Still, he was never good with his words, so he’ll have to settle on that.

”You…” You exhale, sounding content as you relaxed in his hold. “I’ve missed you too, Zuko.”

Your admission is a warm, soothing reminder of just how much he cherishes you. Only you could make him feel seen, or have such a strong desire to allow only you to take care of him. He’s meant to be a symbol, a strong leader—but there’s nothing more than he wishes for than to be whisked away to the privacy of his palace gardens, with you alone.

A loud whistle cuts through the roaring of the crowd.

Almost begrudgingly, Zuko lifts his head from the crook of your neck to meet Sokka’s smug expression.

“Sokka.” He warns, sensing mischief before it has even struck.

“What?” Sokka replies. “Just wondering when you’re gonna introduce us to your personal hairstylist.”

“What’s this about being a hairstylist?” You cock a brow.

“He’s twisting my words.” Zuko groans.

“No, I’m not!” Sokka huffs. “You’re the one bragging about having a whole team of hairstylists, even refusing help to fix that disaster messing up your good looks.”

“Bragging?” You muse, much to Zuko’s chagrin. “I’m honoured, but if you’re thinking of a team, then it’s sadly a one man show.”

Sokka grins. “Even more impressive! Could I book your services sometime—”

“No.” Zuko‘s hand out-stretches, tugging you by the waist back to his side. There isn’t a single gap left between you and him, and his gaze narrows. “Her hands are to only touch my hair.”

You blink rapidly, trying to process this rare side of Zuko that you’ve never truly seen before. A slow smile teeters on your lips, a happy satisfaction lingering in your gut as you lean into Zuko’s touch. “Sorry, Sokka. Fire Lord’s orders.”

“Oh man!” Sokka stomps. “I was so close to getting a free service from the Fire Lord’s personal hairstylist. Great going, Zuko.”

“Who said anything about it being free?” You grin innocently.

“Oh…” Sokka scratches at the nape of his neck, chuckling nervously. “Two birds of a feather do truly flock together. The price only the Fire Lord is willing to pay…. Consider my request retracted, M’lady.”

Zuko’s irritation—his desperation wound up in his chest, finally unravels the moment he’s alone with you.

No, it wasn’t just a simple unraveling. He has never felt so unconditionally happy—than in a mundane, normal manner like this. From the moment you’ve dragged him into his bedchambers, snapping the rubber that’s loosely holding onto his bundle of hair and grabbed for your comb and a new set of rubbers, he’s been needlessly pliant and cooperative.

“I appreciate the loyalty sentiment, but you’ve got to bring a comb with you next time, Zuko.” You mutter, lips bitten in concentration as you untangle his knots with your brush.

Zuko half hums in acknowledgment, too caught up in the feeling of your nails unintentionally scratching against his scalp as you re-do his hair. He’s gone so long without these secluded moments in his room, with your thighs over his shoulders as he sits on the floor, your skilled hands combing through his locks.

In the quiet, he feels the weight of all the expectations of being the Fire Lord roll off his shoulders with every brush of your fingers through his hair, and he just becomes… Zuko again.

It’s a peace he’s only had a taste of in the briefest moments of his childhood. Between the terror, the expectations—there was once where his mother used to comb through his hair in a similar fashion, and he would cherish it deeply in his heart.

You tug playfully when you notice he isn’t listening, caught in a daydream, and he whines.

“You listening, Fire Lord?” You tease. “Don’t you know the saying that if you leave your hair this tangled, you’ll lose it all before you’re fifty? That means you won’t be able to ask for my professional help anymore.”

He stiffens at the thought of never having your aid, your presence in his room over mere excuses of touching up his hair. He barely survived these past few weeks, much less forever. “I’ll bring a comb.” He answers obediently.

Humming a sound of approval, you resume your hand work. ”You know..” You murmur, beginning on your first braid. “Now that it’s been mentioned, I did notice that you don’t have a hairstylist.”

He furrows his brows. “Why would I need one?” Not when I have you.

“It’s just that..” You pause, voice softening. “Well, I’m no expert. Only the simple braids and buns, y’know? Even for your coronation as Fire Lord, and your yearly banquets, you called for me to do your hair.”

“…I don’t want anyone else.” He answers truthfully.

Your hand falters over your braid, and he feels you start over as your fingers thread through the top of his scalp. “Even if I put your hair into pigtails?” You tease, but it’s a silent prodding, a test to see how far he’d let you go.

”You can do whatever you wish.” He shrugs. “I have no complaints as long as you’re not providing your assistance… to others.”

“Still sour from that incident earlier, huh?” You snort. “I don’t know. I could charge a high price if I revealed that I’m your only, personal hairstylist.”

His hand catches your fingers right as they moved to begin the second braid. Caressing your hand gently, he slots his fingers between your own and interlocks them. “I won’t allow it.”

“Banning my business before it even starts?” You’re poking fun, but there’s a delight in your tone that tells him you’re enjoying this. “Don’t tell me you’re switching to a dictatorship.”

“I’ll offer you everything I own if it means being the only one who gets to have this. What’s mine is yours.” His voice is brash—quickened in his decisiveness, his other hand tracing the braid you’ve left that brushes past his shoulder. “My hair, my personal quarters, my trust—it’s all given only to you.”

Your lips part, not expecting him to take your words words so seriously. Swallowing your shock, you smile gently as your hand runs through his locks again. “Is that why you’ve been refusing to cut your hair?”

“You—” His ears redden, and he averts his gaze. “You mentioned before that you liked men with long hair.”

You’re silent. For long enough that he’s beginning to writhe slightly under the long minutes of sitting still on the floor. Zuko feels the heat burning at the back of his neck, and he thinks the long distance away from you for these past few weeks has finally run its course and fried his brain completely.

He’s caught up in his shame, his impudence to admit something so embarrassing that he didn’t have time to think of a proper excuse—when he feels your lips peck against the crown of his head.

He blinks once. Did—you just kiss him? If his brain wasn’t fried before, it definitely is now.

“I only mentioned that—” You reveal slowly, head still lowered so he can hear your hushed voice. “—because I like your long hair. Not anyone else’s. I wouldn’t trade this for anything else, so don’t get it confused.”

His heart stutters, quickening in its pace as he processes your words. A small smile spreads over his mouth as he leans further back, letting you do as you pleased. You’re right. He wouldn’t trade this for anything either.

He’d already quietly kept it as a promise that he’ll never cut his hair if it means you’ll stay here with him like this, tying childish braids into his hair that’s unbefitting a Fire Lord. No matter what comments his chamberlain tries to advise him, he’ll never undo them for as long as it’s to your design and liking. He’ll even go as far as to forget how to tie his hair into a minuscule bun if it meant having the excuse to feel your touch. He’s long past the point of rationality, but here in this moment, he finds having you do his hair is all that he needs to feel contentment.

He’s never felt more thankful to outgrow his old haircuts, than he did in this present moment.

Zuko finally made it back to the fire nation safe and sound after making sure Republic City didn't go under. With half his outfit gone and hair disheveled (yet still beautiful), his council insisted he go get treated and rest up.

Normally he'd refuse and shake off his injuries, acting like they're not nearly as severe as they really are, but ever since a new doctor was hired to the palace he hasn't hesitated since.

Why, you might ask?

Because he found out the new doctor was someone he knew. A friend from wayyy back when. Long before he was banished or his family life went to shit.

However, nobody else knows this.

Zuko was escorted to the medical room--for some reason no matter how times he told them it wasn't necessary. He walked in with a cloth across his body, body and muscles overly defined by the candlelight illuminating the space.

You were kneeled before him with your eyes lowered when he came in. Once his guards left, he just stood there.

"...you know you can stop pretending, right?"

You looked up with a smile on your face as you jumped to your feet and into his arms. A solid, longing kiss on the lips to follow. He kissed back with intention as he held you close. Then came a wince. You stop abruptly and step back.

"Zuko! You're hurt."

"It's not that bad," he says with a whole bunch of bruises littering his entire upper body. The look you gave him made his heart skip a beat.

"C'mon," he continued as he grabbed your hand to pull you closer. "It's been a long couple of days and I'd like to spend the night with the love of my life before going back to Firelord duties."

"Zuko," you narrow your eyes at him, "the last time we got intimate while you were this injured, you were bedridden for three days. And I almost got punished. By death."

"That was one time," he pouted. The only time he ever pouts is when he's alone with you. It's actually quite bizarre. "And you know I'd never let anything happen to you."

His arms wrapped around your waist and his forehead rested upon yours with a soft sigh. He hasn't been able to show this side of him for a long while before another world saving trip with the Avatar.

"I missed you," he murmured. "And I only became bedridden cause I did all the work."

"You were drunk."

"Mmm, we both were-"

You shut him up real quick when your warm palm found the front of his crotch and gave a light squeeze. He grunted softly as he backed away an inch, and you just smiled at him.

"Apologies, Firelord, what was that?"

"You're unfair."

"Oh, should I stop?"

"No," he stopped you from pulling away with a shudder. "Please."

"Please what?"

"Touch me," he said, "please."

"I don't know, Zuko," you practically purr. "Will you let me treat you after if I grant your wish?"

"You could strike lightning directly into my heart if it meant having your hand down my pants right now."

A genuine chuckle couldn't stop from escaping as you backed him closer to the wall and ended up behind him. Hand trailing from his now bare chest to his abs right back to where he desperately needed you to be. You could feel him physically melt while your other hand lightly massaged his bicep.

"We haven't done this in a while," you whisper while toying with the band of his pants. "You might be more sensitive than last time."

"I don't care," he shuddered once more. You could feel the goosebumps rise on his skin for a moment. Zuko felt like he was willingly jumping into an abyss when he started to descend to the ground with you.

As he sat there between your legs, you just had to admire him from his side profile. The sight of him all flushed and panting softly before you even touched him the way he wanted only made you want to tease him even more, but you decided against it only because you really wanted to treat his minor injuries later.

His breath caught in his throat when you lips attached to his neck while simultaneously reaching in his pants and pulling him out. You hummed and shushed him softly.

"Don't be so loud," you whispered.

He leaned his head against yours after you spit in your hand and started stroking. Eyes real tight. Jaw clenched. Hips subtly bucking. Oh, he's so sensitive.

"Can you, uh," he began, his hands squeezing your thighs to focus. "Can you do that thing? Please."

"What thing?" You asked. Knowing exactly what he was talking about.

"With your hand," he said, "your palm. The warmth thing."

"Ohhh...you mean like this?"

When his head fell back into your shoulder, it was like instinct for your free hand to cover his mouth. You could hear him muffle "yes" repeatedly while nodding frantically. Breaths shaky and irregular.

"Someone had a long few days," you muse to yourself, but you know he heard you. He could only whimper and grunt in the same vain when he felt your thumb run over the tip. "And we haven't seen each other in weeks...you missed me, huh?"

"Mhm.." he nodded again. "Missed you so much..."

"How much?" You uncovered his mouth to trace his Adam's apple.

"So fucking much," he exhaled. "I thought about you everyday. Every waking hour. No wonder the Chamberlain keeps saying I zone out so much-"

You hear him gasp and strain his voice to keep himself quiet.

"Ooo," you muse, "you're getting close."

"Hotter," he muttered. You feel like you misheard him.

"What?"

"Hotter," he repeated, "make your hand hotter. I'm almost there."

"...that won't hurt?"

"Please don't make me say it- fuck."

"Say...what?"

"Just- I like the pain okay? Just, please, make your hand a little hotter. I'm right there, baby, please."

This genuinely caught you off guard. You knew he had his freaky tendencies every once in a while but you can't believe you haven't caught on to his rare masochistic desires as long as you two have been dating. And that makes him all the more hot. Pun intended.

His eyes open a little once you made your palm a little hotter. His chest rising and falling a lot quicker than before. The main sound in this little room being your incredibly warm hand jerking him off with your own spit had him about to see stars.

"Yes. Yes, just like that. Gods-"

He grabbed the hand occupying his throat and slapped it back onto his mouth as he came. His hot seed spilling all over your fingers as you worked him through it. His hand rested on top of yours for extra security to prevent his array of deep groans from echoing through the palace. His eyes shut tight again as a single tear slides down his cheek. He hasn't felt this good in so long. Which was almost a month but to him it's a millennia.

After about a minute was when he started to really calm down. His heart wasn't leaping from his chest anymore but boy was he sweating. He moved his hand along with yours and took a few good breaths to center himself.

"Thank you," he finally said. Head still resting on your shoulder. "Thank you so much."

"Just doing my job," you lightly tease. Pulling the top of his pants back up and wiping his sweat with the other. "Just don't fall asleep yet. I still have to treat you."

Zuko just smiled lazily at that, lightly shaking his head.

"I love you."

You smiled back at him. He couldn't see it but he could feel it against his face. The side with his scar. Which made his heart flutter a little bit more than usual.

"I'm gonna marry you someday."

Now it's your turn for your heart to flutter. Skip a beat, even. He notices.

"I don't care how long it takes for me to make real changes around here," he continued on. "We will be together. In the open. And you won't just be my nurse anymore."

"...wow," you manage to say. "It's not like you to be this sentimental after we get intimate."

"I kind of almost died," he admitted. His tone very serious now. "One of my last thoughts before Katara helped us was that I didn't even get to marry you, so...yeah."

He sat up slowly and rolled his shoulder before shifting to get a good look at you in this gorgeously lit room. Falling in love all over again. He looked down at the hand he, uh... came on and cleared his throat while blushing.

"Um- sorry about that."

You laugh softly through your nose and grab a nearby little towel that was within reach and wiped it off.

The detail was insane. What he had thought were simply decorative engravings from afar were actually intricate, lifelike carvings. The band was decorated with a chain of badgermoles, each chasing the one in front of it in an endless loop, so realistic they seemed to breathe as light and shadow played across the gold surface.

Sokka gave a low whistle. "Damn, she's good." Zuko almost felt irritated at the word choice. "Good" didn't even begin to describe it. He doubted that any of the pieces in his vast royal wardrobe, painstakingly crafted by the finest of Fire Nation artisans, could even hold a candle to the work of art in front of them.

"Does she take commissions?" He tried to come off casual but, if the wicked grin that grew on Toph's face was any indication, failed miserably.

"I don't know, princess, I'll have to ask her. She runs a little smithy in the Earth Kingdom with her folks and trains with me in her free time, but maybe she'll spare a request from the Fire Lord the time of day."

The group laughed good-naturedly at Toph's ribbing as Zuko tried to mask his reddening cheeks with his drink. Mercifully the topic changed quickly, Katara and Sokka getting into a heated debate on if the grilled cranefish on the table tasted more like arctic hen or salmon jerky, but Zuko found his mind still wandering back to you. By the time the night wound down and everyone prepared to go their separate ways for the evening (none of them ever took him up on his offer to host them in the palace, which, he figured, was understandable), Zuko had unconsciously began to daydream. Toph had generously told him your shop's address as she was leaving, and he turned it around constantly in his mind on the walk back to the imperial grounds. By the time he sat down to pen the message, his head was full of nothing but you.

What did you look like? Were you tall, short, average? Did you have Toph's muscled build or were you softer? Details like the sound of your voice, the shape of your hands, the color of your hair, all of them tumbled and tangled in Zuko's mind until they formed a faceless outline, vague and evershifting but with an alluring dreamlike quality.

The sound of a rogue drop of ink hitting the paper jerked Zuko from his reverie, and he groaned as he crumpled the ruined sheet and tossed it aside. How pathetic. Bewitched by...what, a fancy bangle? He was no better than a bird, getting distracted by shiny things. But as he thought back on your work, on the way the animals had genuinely seemed animated when Toph rotated the band, he picked up a fresh sheet of paper and began to write.

He received your response a week and a half after his letter went out. The container was cheap and the delivery bird was plain, and his attendants might have thrown it out had Zuko not told them to keep an eye out for missives from the Earth Kingdom. He sat alone in the council room, turning the wooden tube in his hands. Over the last week he'd more or less been able to get himself under control, but having your letter physically in front of him filled him with a sense of childish giddiness. A manicured nail broke the seal, and he fished out the leaf of paper inside.

Your handwriting was neat and blocky, and the faint scent of sword oil wafted to his nose. The letter began with an earnest apology for the lateness of your reply, citing that you'd initially thought his message to be a prank from someone until Toph had asked about it. You gushed about the honor of his attention, which made his stomach to a funny flip. You lamented that you wouldn't be able to come to the Fire Nation to fulfill his request, but if he sent a description of what he was looking for as well as the necessary measurements, you'd be overjoyed to make him something, free of charge.

The way you wrote was genuine and earnest, the rise and fall of your emotions laid bare on the page in a way Zuko found incredibly endearing. At the end, you mentioned the sample included with your letter and how you hoped it was to his liking; he could almost picture the bashful wobble of your smile. He immediately dropped the paper on the table and picked up your message container, noting the weight and faint clinking of the piece inside. Upending the little tube, he was greeted by the most gorgeous kanzashi pin he'd ever seen. A snake with glittering ruby eyes and scales rendered so well he could count each one wrapped around half the silver needle, the other half flat and pointed like a sword's blade. He was tempted to slide it into his hair that very second but refrained, instead slipping it and your letter back into the wooden envelope and setting it aside.

His mind was whirling with ideas for what to ask of you, each more elaborate than the last, but he finally settled on a relatively simple one. He wrote the request hastily (before his nerve could desert him), marked it with the imperial seal, and sent it off with enough money to pay for the commission and the sample pin twice over.

Two weeks later, the package from you arrived. This time Zuko opened it in his bedchambers, a reward after a long day of being Fire Lord. He marveled at the ring sat in the palm of his hand, above and beyond his specifications, but what really drew his attention was the second half of his order: a photograph of you.

The curiosity does not disappear. In fact, it digs deeper and deeper into the crevices of your mind—subconsciously affecting your attitude around Zuko.

It doesn't help that it's painfully obvious that he's noticed your strange behaviour ever since his comment. Once, when his hand had come up to your shoulder to alert you that everyone was boarding the ship—and your entire body jumped in response. Again, when you completely blanked out when he asked if you would like some firecracker buns.

It's not like you wanted to hyper-focus on his observation on purpose. It's just that after years of knowing him and pushing down that sub-concious attraction—of not allowing yourself to even see him as anything more than the Zuko you know, the rebound impact of all your resurfacing emotions combined with his lingering presence is far too much.

Zuko isn't the type to beat around the bush either, one of the rare habits his uncle hasn't passed onto him. In a moment of needed reprieve, your attempt at regaining your composure fails spectacularly when you find yourself in a stand-still, cornered in the back of the ship—one firecracker bun in his hand as an offering.

"Have I said something to make you uncomfortable?"

Zuko's gaze is akin to a puppy's, wide-eyed and brows furrowed. Afraid that he's done something wrong, overlooked the choice of his words once again and destroyed the atmosphere without realising.

Straight to the point as ever, you'd appreciate it more if he had given you a few more minutes to come up with a reasonable excuse. Something more plausible than 'Do you find me attractive?', a lingering question that should've remained buried in the soil that you departed from nearly an hour ago.

"Not exactly." Taking the firecracker bun from his hand, the crumbs coat your fingers. You needed something to muffle your words, anything to distract you. It's easier to focus on the lingering spice that melts into your tongue, rather than his unblinking stare.

"So—I did say something." His mouth parts, a slight tilt downward in the corner of his lip. "Or I've made you uncomfortable."

There was no winning with him. Swallowing your last bite, you brush the crumbs against your sleeve, the slouch of your posture a key sign of surrender, your invisible white flag waving at the sight of his increasingly dubious expression.

"The first one." You admit with a sigh. "Earlier—"

He leans in subtly, a habit he does when he's listening attentively, and the luscious wave of his bangs brushes against your knuckles. His amber eyes pierce through you, and the words practically die off your tongue.

Why is he looking at you like that?

It isn't fair that he has such an effect on you. You still remember the old days, when he had a worser temper instead of the softened expression that lingers warmly on you. Plus, that horrible haircut, a singular ponytail with the rest of his hair shaved off forever engrained in your mind. Even recalling the image doesn't help calm your thundering heartbeat when the Zuko in front of you is so—overwhelming.

"You were saying?" He prods gently.

You swallow, averting your gaze. "When you mentioned... about attractiveness. Was that like—a spur of the moment kind of thing, or do you have a first impression for everyone you meet?"

His brows furrow for a moment, before recognition lights his golden gaze. "Ah—that."

"Right, that." You feel the seat warming beneath you in your embarrassment, a hallucination of senses in your sudden need to escape his assessing gaze. He barely even remembers his comment, and here you are, still obsessively prying over it.

"I was only answering Toph's question." He states. "No one was stating the obvious."

"The obvious." You muse. "Do you assess the attractiveness of everyone you meet?"

"I suppose it depends." He mutters, hand rubbing over his chin in consideration. "If it was during a battle, I wouldn't be prioritising on considering the opponent's appearance. As compared to someone knocked out on the ground, it gives me plenty of time."

You barely resist a snort. Only he could treat a topic like a person's attractiveness like one of his battle strategies. "I suppose you didn't have time during our first meeting then."

As soon as the words leave your mouth, both you and Zuko freeze. Your lips clamp shut, an immediate wince shuddering through your frame. Cat's out of the bag, you suppose.

"Never mind." You wave it off, your own laugh echoing much too loudly through your ears. "It wasn't like I was wondering—well, maybe I was. You just sprung it out of nowhere earlier, and I got... curious. You don't have to answer—"

"I did." He cuts you off unceremoniously.

You blink, his vague words echoing in the thin distance between the two of you. "What?"

He swallows, and for once, he's the one flustered in this conversation. "I did notice, during our first meeting."

No way. Your first meeting with Zuko was anything but pretty. You remember being covered in sweat, grime, and ashes coating your clothes as he shot flames at you from his palms. The twisted grimace on his face when you had him writhing under your grip, as he loudly declared his revenge on you, rupturing your eardrums with all his yelling.

"You mean—" You barely resist a grin stretching on your lips. "—when I pinned you down on your airship, and you were spitting death threats into my ear."

"Yes, that." His long locks cover his ears now, but you can bet the rims are reddened from the reminder. "You were formidable."

Formidable. No, that wasn't enough. His sudden focus on the floorboards of his ship made it obvious that he was simplifying his observation.

"I was gaining the winning hand." You state out-right, disbelief coating your tone. "And you had time to notice?"

A restrained sigh escapes Zuko's gritted teeth, already regretting his slip of tongue.

"What of the angle? Does the Fire Lord recall my bone structure during our first battle too, when I pinned you to the floor?" You tease.

He scoffs in a light-hearted manner, shoulder lightly bumping into yours. "It was the first time anyone had pinned me down. I wasn't exactly given another view to look at."

"Was the view bad then?" You prod.

"Not at all." He answers absentmindedly—quickly without hesitation.

Your lips part, speechless. Zuko immediately separates his shoulder from yours, a bashful expression overtaking his features.

"Objectively." He states hurriedly, waving his arms. "I was expecting to find the Avatar at the time, not... you."

The way he says it, the almost breathless note that leaves his lips. You devour it hungrily, now being the one to lean in, prying.

"And how did you find me, Zuko?" You ask earnestly.

He huffs in defeat. His softened gaze finally meets yours again, his eyes roaming over your features, ones that he's familiarised with for years, and yet... it still takes the breath out of him. "...You were the most beautiful person I've ever sparred with."

Oh... wow. You didn't expect that.

"You were threatening to kill me." You recall in disbelief.

"I was multi-tasking." He mutters, ashamed.

Your intended snort escalates into a cackle, unable to contain yourself. "I would have never guessed that from the way you glared at me. So full of shame—and destroyed pride."

"What about you?" He asks in a hurry, though his tone drops towards the end in hesitation—hinting his regret in the wrong change in topic. He grimaces, gaze dropping to his tightened fists over his lap. "...Did you find my scar hideous?"

Surprise colours your features.

Immediately shaking your head, you're at a loss for words on how to convey just how off-course he was on his guess. How could you ever find Zuko hideous? Your heart barely survived your visits to the Fire Nation, not when their own Fire Lord always insisted on attending to your presence personally, even when it arose suspicion of your shared bond with him, to have him so easily distracted when you arrived on his lands.

Even now, he's overwhelming your vision. Healthy muscles that are barely hidden under his clothes, or the hair he's refused to cut ever since his youth that now flows lusciously down his broad back. His amber eyes that glint golden when the sun reflects his irises, and even the conjured image of the way his arms move when he's fire-bending.

He's— "Beautiful."

By the time you realise your second slip of the tongue, Zuko has already blinked once, caught off-guard.

You purse your lips, finding this conversation to be as riveting as it is a weaponised self-attack. "Objectively speaking. You're attractive, Zuko."

"Objectively." He repeats slowly, amused that you're using his own deflecting choice of words.

"Fine, like really attractive." You deadpan. "It's annoying, because I'm supposed to be focused on the mission, and you're just... standing there."

It was the truth. You couldn't be the only one who noticed it. His subtle change in demeanour over the years, how he carried himself into a room now instead of randomly announcing his arrival at the worst timings. Even Sokka noticed.

He snorts, and the sound deflates the tension in your chest. "Funny, I should be saying that about you."

You gasp, expression aghast. "You're joking."

"It is not honourable to lie." He shrugs. "You've always been the most magnetic in my eyes. I can never find myself looking away from you."

You grow quiet, the genuine sincerity in his words leaving you defenseless. Have you been blind all along? Is that why he always sent letters—asking you to visit his nation for purposes other than meetings? Or why he sought for your company constantly during this entire trip, despite it being the first time the entire set of Team Avatar being together in months?

You had been too focused on what was comfortable and familiar, to teasing and prodding, that you never considered this.

"For the record." You whisper, leaning in to truly look at him. "I never found your scar hideous. You were always beautiful to me, Zuko."

He swallows, something intense flickering in his gaze—but too fleeting for you to catch onto it. Maybe it had always been there, when his eyes linger on your form when he accompanied you in his palace gardens, or even back then, when he was a banished prince who sought for you, even with a grimace on his face.

"That haircut when we first met, though?" Your smile breaks out into a toothy grin. "Absolutely hideous."

The softness in his gaze falters, before a groan rumbles past his throat. "Will you ever let that one go?"

"Never."

He lets out a low breath, drained of his energy. "I admitted to finding you attractive, and this is my repayment?"

"Who's finding who attractive?"

Sokka's voice strikes a jump in your shoulders, and Zuko's in an impressive halt, frozen completely after being caught red-handed.

"Ah, between the two of you—" Sokka whistles. "I was wondering who was going to break first. Congrats, love-birds!"

"We're not—" Your voice clashes with Zuko's. "This isn't—"

You sneak a glance to Zuko, and his hand is already covering half of his face, his embarrassment shielded by the shadow of his large palm.

Sokka's confused gaze switches between the two of you, blinking slowly.

"Ah, couple years too early?" Sokka shrugs, before clicking his tongue. "That's rough. I'll check back in with you guys in another time." Making his way back towards the front, he shouts once more to prove his point. "Just don't let me catch you guys making out or anything, I'll need to poke out my eyes for that one!"

"...We better restrain him before he starts blasting it as news to everyone." You groan.

"Agreed." He mutters.

Right as you made your move to leave, Zuko's hand grips yours—stopping you.

You lift your head, meeting his gaze. "Yeah?"

His Adam's apple bobs up and down, consideration clear in his expression before he decisively leans in. His voice is a warm hush, soft and intimate when he whispers. "For the record." Your own words echo back to your ears in the low hush of his voice. "I wasn't only referring to our first meeting when I said that you're beautiful."

His smile quirks up into something tender, a secret expression reserved only for you. ...At this rate, your curiousity was really going to be the death of you.

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