Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

You were at Iroh's teahouse, the Jasmine Dragon. The entire Avatar team was gathered, and Zuko had brought his two sisters, Kiyi and Azula, with you to visit their uncle. Kiyi was already fifteen years old, while the rest of the group ranged between twenty-three and twenty-five. You and Zuko were the oldest.

—Uncle, don't you have anything but alfalfa sprouts? Not even that... small?— Zuko asked with a mixture of annoyance and sarcasm.

—Come on, some alfalfa sprouts aren't going to kill you— you said playfully, sitting down next to him and looking at him tenderly.

—Maybe so— he replied, taking a sip of his tea as if the drink were torture.

—Zuko, Reader, thank you so much for inviting us to spend the day with you! —Katara said with a radiant smile.

—It's a splendid day for a stroll around Ba Sing Se, don't you think?— Suki added.

—Have you seen the size of these cakes? I'd have to eat forty-two to equal the size of one normal one!— exclaimed Sokka, indignant.

—Yes— Aang and Toph said in unison, as they calmly chewed one.

—We're so glad you could come today— you said, smiling. —We're returning to the Fire Nation next week, so we wanted to see you before we leave.

—So soon? But they just arrived— Katara protested.

—If you leave now, you'll miss the summer festival in Ba Sing Se!— Sokka said with his mouth full.

—I'm afraid we'll have to miss it— Zuko replied. —We have plans for our anniversary in the Fire Nation. The citizens will throw us a big party, perhaps with smaller cakes than these.

—Did I hear 'party'? 'Party'?— Sokka said, raising his eyebrows.

—That's right! Their wedding anniversary!— Kiyi exclaimed. —I have a gift scheduled to arrive in nine days. You'll be home, right?

—Yes, we'll be home —Zuko replied with a calm smile.

—It must be so nice to be married to your special someone, ahhh— Suki sighed with a dreamy smile.

—Ah, I remember how those two met— Sokka interjected in an expert tone.

—That was easy, Reader was my babysitter—Kiyi commented bluntly.

—Actually, the story is much longer than that— Zuko replied with a knowing smile directed at you.

—Much more! Zuko and I went to school together— you said happily, remembering those days that seemed so far away.

—Boring— Azula interrupted, arms crossed.

—Azula!— Katara said in a warning tone.

Zuko let out a soft laugh and looked down at his cup.

—I remember it as if it were... a while ago— he murmured, her voice heavy with nostalgia.

Flashback — Republic City Academy

"Zuko continued telling the story, his voice filled with nostalgia as everyone listened attentively.

—It was during our time at the Republic City Academy...— Zuko began to narrate."

Republic City Academy was known as the most inclusive and strictest in the world. All elemental bending disciplines were taught there, and only the best students managed to excel.

"—My friends and I… uh, we were a special group— Zuko added with a half-smile."

At that time, he often spent time with Aang and Sokka. Even though Aang was the Avatar, he detested fame and preferred to keep a low profile. Although the academy was co-ed, it was still rare to see young people from different nations and elements interacting as true friends.

Zuko was fifteen years old. He was in what many would call his rebellious phase... if dressing entirely in black counted as such. Even so, his serious aura, his dark hair, and that distinctive scar ensured he didn't go unnoticed.

He also had a rival: Jet. A boy who hated everything about the Fire Nation… including him, the crown prince.

Zuko was walking down the hallway with Aang and Sokka when suddenly something—or rather someone—tripped Sokka. All three ended up falling to the floor, amidst scattered papers and notebooks.

—I hope you had a good trip, Prince Zuko— Jet teased as he walked past him, causing the rest of the students to laugh.

Zuko looked up, furious… and then he saw you.

“—Reader was like a revelation— Zuko said as he narrated. —The most beautiful, kind, and incredible girl I’ve ever seen… I don’t mean to brag, but I was quite the charmer the first time we met.”

You remembered him differently: he was still on the ground, with Sokka and Aang on top of him, and you approached him with concern. Your style contrasted sharply with his: you wore light colors, a white skirt, a soft pink blouse, and heels in the same shade. Your dark brown hair fell in soft waves, and your brown eyes reflected warmth. Before you stood Zuko with his pale skin, his black clothes, his golden gaze, and that scar that only accentuated his mystery.

—Oh! Come, let me help you— you said as you offered him your hand.

—I…— he stammered, barely able to meet your gaze.

Zuko took your hand and stood up abruptly, without letting go completely.

—I'm afraid all your books and papers are a mess, would you like me to help you with them? —you said, looking at the chaos on the floor.

—I...— he said again, unable to form a coherent sentence.

—Do you need to see the nurse? Did you hit your head? How many fingers am I holding up?— you asked, holding up two fingers in front of her face.

—I…— he repeated again, her cheeks burning.

And just then…

RING!!!

The bell for class rang throughout the hallway.

—Reader! Come on, we'll be late for History class!—shouted Suki, accompanied by Katara and Toph.

—Oh! I... umm... I shouldn't be late, so... see you later!— you said hurriedly, walking away with nervous laughter.

Zuko watched you leave, still paralyzed, while Aang and Sokka gathered their things.

—I think... I like it— he finally murmured, without taking his eyes off you.

—You're an idiot— Sokka said resignedly, holding up all his notebooks.

Zuko just smiled, and for the first time in a long time, he felt something that wasn't anger or frustration.

After that first encounter, Zuko couldn't stop thinking about you.

Even on the most hectic days, your image appeared in his mind: your smile, your voice, the way you had taken his hand without hesitation.

That afternoon, he was in Sokka's school dorm room with him and Aang. The three of them were engrossed in a game of Dungeons & Dragons, though Zuko was clearly not focused.

—Hey, Aang, roll the die to find out the damage— said Sokka as he moved his pieces.

—Yep, here you go— Aang replied, throwing the die. —Oh, I rolled a nine. Is my elf still alive?

Sokka smiled suspiciously.

—You won't like this… you've been cast a fire spell. Your character won't be able to sit down for a month.

—Come on! He can't sit, he can't fly, he can't use spells... you're throwing everything at me!— Aang complained indignantly.

—The game is throwing everything at you, not me— Sokka retorted, shrugging. Then he looked at Zuko. —Zuko, what about you? What move are you going to make?

The prince did not answer. His gaze was lost, and his mind miles away.

—Zukooo! Are you still here with us? We need our paladin!— said Sokka, waving his die in front of him.

—What?— Zuko asked, blinking, as if he had just returned to the present.

—Are you okay?— Aang asked, noticing her distraction.

Sokka narrowed his eyes with a mischievous smile.

—I think someone still has their eyes on a certain brown head of hair and a pair of… black eyes.

—Brown— Zuko corrected without thinking.

Sokka raised his eyebrows.

—That concludes my case. That girl is Katara's friend, right? Do you want me to tell her you like her friend?— he asked maliciously.

—No!— Zuko exclaimed with a frustrated sigh. —I've already made my decision.

—Will you open the hidden door to the left of the treasure chest?— Aang asked, confused. —I don't think you can until Sokka casts a protection spell.

—It's not about that— Zuko replied, slamming his fist on the table. —I'm going to make Reader my girlfriend!

—Good luck with that— Sokka mocked.

—Also... I'll ask her to come with me to the Fall Formal next month— Zuko added, with a determination that clashed with his nervous expression.

Aang sighed and leaned towards Sokka.

—Aren't there too many dances at this school?

Sokka nodded silently before looking at Zuko with a serious expression.

—Zuko, Reader is a very social, attractive, intelligent, and kind girl. She can go to the ball with whomever she wants. She's even friends with your horrible sister Azula. We know you're a good guy… and a crown prince, too, but… there are certain social boundaries.

Zuko looked away.

—It's just... I feel like it could work— he muttered, frustrated.

—Maybe... you have slightly high... expectations for your first girlfriend— Aang said, trying to sound friendly.

Zuko looked at him with determination.

—Come on, I'm the prince of the Fire Nation. I can do it.

Sokka let out an exaggerated sigh.

—You take this very seriously, huh?

Zuko nodded solemnly.

—I swear by the dragons that I will court the beautiful Rea...— he began, but Aang covered his mouth.

—You don't need to swear to it, we already understand— said Sokka, rolling his eyes.

Next, the boy from the Water Tribe cleared the table, taking out a notebook, blank sheets of paper, and pencils.

—Never say we didn't help a friend.

—What are you doing now?— Aang asked.

—I've written countless successful Dungeons & Dragons campaigns. If I can't come up with a quest for the hero to get the girl, I'm out of planning!— Sokka said dramatically.

Zuko looked at him suspiciously.

—Are you sure you want to do this? This could be a disaster.

—We want to do it— Sokka replied. —And if it fails, it'll be a spectacular failure.

—Well, our reputation couldn't get any worse— Aang joked.

Sokka began to write.

—To get this girl, you'll have to complete three tests. First: talk to her. Easy, right?

—I think I can do it...— Zuko replied, barely hesitating.

—Second: a grand gesture. Something that impresses her, a detail, a good moment, even a date. Third: the dance —Sokka explained as he doodled on the paper—. And BAM! You ask her to be your girlfriend and you win.

—Yes... dancing. I win...— Zuko murmured, placing a hand on his scar.

Sokka got up, rummaging through some things.

—Here's something that might help you with the first test. Give this to your mother or stepfather; Katara accidentally left it in my bag.

He handed Zuko a pink pamphlet. The prince took it, curious, and read it aloud:

> Childcare by Reader!

From newborns to older children.

Games and sweets.

Nights and weekends.

Telephone number: 0000-0000

Aang smiled instantly.

—You'll be able to see her outside of school if she's going to babysit Kiyi! It's perfect.

Zuko stared at the paper with a small smile that he tried to hide.

—Reader is taking care of us again… This seems easy —he murmured, though his heart was beginning to beat faster.

And so began his most important “mission”: to win you over.

---

The next day, Zuko was at Ursa and Ikem's house.

Ursa leaned in front of him, carefully adjusting the red tie on his black suit. They were getting ready to attend a play together.

—I'm glad you brought the nanny's ad, son— Ursa said with a warm smile. —Sokka's sister's recommendation gives me confidence. Besides, everyone at Kiyi's school speaks very highly of her. That way, the three of us can go see the play.

—Your face looks weird every time you talk about Reader, Zuzu— Kiyi commented, observing his older brother curiously.

At that moment, someone knocked on the door.

—Oh! It's here!— Ursa exclaimed excitedly, and went to open the door.

She let you in with a friendly smile.

—Hi! It's so good to see you, I've heard so many positive things about your work as a nanny—she said in a warm voice.

—Hello! I'm glad you contacted me. I was really looking forward to seeing Kiyi...— you replied with a smile, then looked at Zuko. —Oh! Hello, you're Prince Zuko, right?

Zuko stared at you, surprised. "Does he know my name?" he thought, unable to tear his gaze away. You wore a white dress with small pink flowers, your hair loose, and a serene gleam in your eyes. "Adorable..."

—I... yes— he finally replied, trying to sound firm.

—Do you know my Zuko?— Ursa interjected proudly. —He's a very talented firebender; one day he'll make a young woman very happy.

—Mother...— Zuko murmured, looking away, a slight blush on his cheeks.

Ursa turned her gaze to Kiyi, who was already by your side.

—Remember, Kiyi, Zuko will want ice cream after the play, so don't eat all the ice cream in the fridge, or he'll get angry.

—Yes, he would be very angry— Kiyi joked, causing Zuko to let out a tired sigh.

"Wait a minute... I didn't say hello to her!" Zuko suddenly thought, feeling clumsy.

Before leaving through the door with Ikem and Ursa, he looked at you over his shoulder.

—Hello...— he said almost in a whisper, his voice tense, and then he quickly left the house, nervous.

"Ready..." he thought to himself as he walked, trying to convince himself that it had been enough.

---

The next day...

Zuko met with Aang and Sokka in the student dorm room.

—How did it go last night?— Sokka asked with a smile.

—The play? Interesting— Zuko replied calmly.

—No way! Did you talk to her?— Sokka retorted, rolling his eyes.

—Oh... that, yes, I did— Zuko said, avoiding her gaze.

—Good for you! That's great!± Aang exclaimed.

—Now that you've completed the first phase, it's time for the second— Sokka said, crossing his arms with the air of a strategist. —Katara told me something about her. You see, Reader hangs out with two groups: my sister's group, Katara, Suki, and Toph, and your sister's group, the devils: Azula, Ty Lee, and Mai. But both groups have one thing in common: they love her sense of humor.

—His humor?— Zuko asked, curious.

—According to Katara, he has a very interesting personality. She didn't want to tell me much more, but she said he has unique interests— Sokka explained.

—Sokka... be direct— Zuko said with an impatient sigh.

Aang leaned towards him and whispered something in his ear.

Zuko's eyes widened. —Are you sure?— he asked, incredulous.

Sokka and Aang nodded firmly.

—The next plan is this...— said Sokka, opening a notebook and beginning to draw lines and arrows.

And so, amidst jokes and strategies, they began to plan a special treat for you.

---

The next day, Zuko had a small box wrapped in gift paper. He held it in his hand as he leaned against his locker, looking dejected.

—This is a terrible idea...— he murmured with a sigh.

—That's a great idea!— Aang replied enthusiastically.

But then Zuko saw you appear in the hallway... and you weren't alone.

—Ah, she's there...— he muttered. —She's with Jet, that maniac from the Earth Kingdom fighting team.— Zuko frowned. —That idiot... I hate him.

—You should— Aang remarked. —I heard he wanted to ask her to the dance.

—Zuko—Sokka interjected urgently—, it is imperative that you get on my sister's friend's radar right now, do you understand?

Zuko let out a soft grunt. —Maybe I can give it to her after class...— he muttered, looking at the gift.

—You have a competition against Jet this afternoon, right?— Sokka asked.

Zuko nodded.

—Yes. I know his weakness: he can't stand losing. He's one of those people who always have to win or he'll lose his mind.

—Perfect— Sokka said with a mischievous grin. —You beat him, you make him bite the dust, and while he's cursing the world, you go to Reader... and give him the present.

Zuko thought about it for a second... and then he squeezed the box in his hands.

—Okay. I'll do it.

---

Zuko stood in the locker room, clad in his combat uniform, the red and black colors of the Fire Nation standing out sharply. That afternoon there would be no fire or punches: it would be a sword fight.

As he adjusted the straps of his light armor, he let out a long sigh.

—I really hope this works...— he murmured, more to herself than to others.

Aang, ever the optimist, patted him on the shoulder.

—Don't worry, Zuko. Reader is an intelligent woman; she can surely see through that guy. She'll know you're the best choice.

Zuko looked at him with a mixture of doubt and hope, gripping the hilt of his sword.

—Alright— Sokka chimed in, raising a fist in the air, —Operation 'Kill the Beast' is underway! Our dragon will rise in its inner fire and defeat it!

Zuko blinked, somewhat confused.

—Is that what you called her...?

—Sounds epic, doesn't it?— Sokka replied with a huge smile.

Aang nodded, amused. —Just don't forget the final step, Zuko: you win the duel... and then you go straight to give him the gift.

Zuko nodded silently, taking a deep breath.

Zuko stepped onto the fighting arena with a determined stride, the air vibrating with the crowd's anticipation. The stone floor was marked by the footprints of countless duels, and the afternoon sun shone down on his armor, making the red tones of his uniform glow like liquid fire.

In front of him, Jet twirled his sword arrogantly, a confident smile crossing his face.

—I hope you don't run away when things start to heat up, Prince— he said mockingly.

Zuko didn't answer. He only bowed his head slightly, assuming his fighting stance with his twin swords ready. The crowd fell silent.

—Begin!— shouted the referee.

The metallic clang of steel echoed throughout the arena. Jet was the first to attack, swift and aggressive, but Zuko blocked with precision. His swords moved in perfect synchronization, twisting and deflecting each blow with an elegance that contrasted sharply with his opponent's brutality.

Jet stepped back, frustrated. —You're not a bad fighter... for someone who lives in the shadow of his family.

Zuko gritted his teeth, a fire igniting in his eyes. —Don't speak of what you don't understand.

With a burst of speed, he spun around, his blades crossing in a downward slash. Jet managed to dodge, but the impact sent him stumbling back several steps. Zuko didn't give him time to regain his balance; he advanced with a series of swift, precise attacks, a dance of steel that forced Jet to defend himself desperately.

The crowd erupted in cheers as Zuko disarmed him with a side strike, sending his opponent's sword flying. Jet tried to counter with a kick, but Zuko blocked the move, spun his sword around, and firmly placed it against Jet's chest, ending the fight.

The referee raised his hand. —Victory to Zuko of the Fire Nation!

A roar of applause filled the arena. Zuko lowered his swords and took a deep breath. For a moment, he heard only the beating of his heart. Then he looked up at the stands… searching for you in the crowd.

And there you were. Your eyes met his. You smiled at him, with that sweetness that made all the effort worthwhile.

Zuko allowed himself a small, satisfied smile. Part one of the plan: complete.

Zuko left the arena, adrenaline still coursing through his veins. The roar of the crowd still echoed in his ears as he made his way through the throng, determined to find you.

—Good luck!— Aang shouted from the staging area, getting ready for his own elemental battle.

Zuko barely heard it. His gaze moved among the people, gently pushing aside those who stood in his way.

—Excuse me… sorry, has anyone seen Reader?— he asked, without stopping.

Until he saw you.

—There you are!— he said with relief, trying to make his way through the crowd.

But their stride stopped abruptly. Because right in front of you, grinning with that characteristic arrogance, was Jet.

—So, Reader… how about you go to the dance with me?— he asked, leaning confidently against the railing.

You were there, with Katara and Suki by your side, holding Jet's jacket in your hands.

—Of course she'll go with you!— Katara said with a bright smile.

—No one else has asked him!— Suki added, giving you a little conspiratorial nudge.

You lowered your gaze, nervous.

—Well… it’s true that no one else has asked me yet… but I was hoping that someone in particular would…— you murmured in a whisper.

Jet smiled arrogantly. —That's right, you were waiting for me.

And before you could react, he placed his jacket over your shoulders.

—I'll look for you at eight— he said, walking away triumphantly.

Katara sighed dreamily. —You're so lucky, he's so handsome!

—And popular— Suki added with a laugh. —Do you think he has a brother?

—Oh, heavens...— you whispered, feeling more confused than flattered.

Then, right behind you, without you noticing, Zuko stood motionless.

Her hand, which held the small wrapped gift, trembled slightly before she hid it behind her back.

He looked at you in silence, with that hurt expression he tried to hide, but which betrayed him completely.

"Of course... Reader is so popular... he'd never notice someone like me..." he thought, feeling her chest tighten.

A few meters behind, Sokka and Aang watched the scene in horror.

—It can't be...— Aang whispered.

—The plan... failed— Sokka muttered, putting his hand to his face.

And so, the moment that should have been the start of the perfect romance... ended up being a direct blow to the heart of the fire prince.

End of flashback.

You placed the teacup on the table with an amused smile, just as everyone fell silent after hearing the story.

—What?! What?! It couldn't end there! You two are married!— Kiyi exclaimed, completely indignant, her eyes wide.

You couldn't help but laugh at everyone's expression, especially Zuko's, who looked more embarrassed than proud.

—That's not how it ended... that's how it began— you said gently, leaning in to give him a soft kiss on the cheek. —And, to be honest, I don't remember the fight being all that interesting.

Zuko shrugged, trying to maintain his composure as a blush rose to his face.

—Maybe I embellished the story a little for the sake of the narrative— he admitted, looking away.

—Okay! So what happened next? Did you go to the dance with that guy or not? Details!— Kiyi insisted, leaning impatiently across the table.

—Sentimental— Azula muttered, rolling her eyes and crossing her arms in annoyance.

You chuckled, picking up the teapot to refill the cups.

—Let's fill our cups, order another round of cakes... and I'll tell you everything that happened from my perspective...— you said with a mischievous smile, glancing at him sideways.

Zuko left, half amused and half resigned.

To be continued…

Chapter Text

Finally, the next round of cakes arrived, and the teacups were full again. The atmosphere felt warm and full of anticipation.

—I don't think Zuko has the whole story— you said with a mischievous smile, glancing sideways at your husband. —I think they need another perspective... besides the male one.

—What do you mean? My version has everything: intrigue, drama, unrequited love, my emotional suffering!— Zuko said, raising an eyebrow.

—And when will we get to the party part?— Sokka interjected, now more interested in the story than in his cake.

You lean slightly towards Zuko, with that look he knows so well.

—Let's see… your plan to “win me over” was to talk to me, give me a gift and confess your love while we danced, right?

—Yes, and it was a good plan— Zuko replied proudly.

—And that's what happened?— you asked, amused.

—Well, not exactly —he admitted, looking down.

You gently covered her mouth with one hand, smiling.

—Then let me finish the story.

—So, you went to the dance with Jet?— Kiyi asked eagerly.

—I did it... but I didn't leave with him— you said, resting your face on one hand, with a touch of mystery.

—So what happened? Details!& Kiyi insisted, leaning towards you.

—Oh, yes! Tell us what you felt, I hardly remember what it was like— Suki added. —Did your heart race?

—Was it romantic?— Kiyi asked, her eyes sparkling.

—He was a complete idiot— Azula interjected disdainfully.

—Hey!— Zuko protested.

You laughed softly. —Hahaha, Azula, you know him better than anyone.

—Thanks for defending me, sweetheart— Zuko said sarcastically, though he was smiling slightly.

—You've always been a bit of an idiot— you said, laughing, causing everyone, even Azula, to burst into laughter.

Then you glanced at him sideways, a nostalgic smile playing on your lips. —I think I'll start with the night I babysat Kiyi...

Flashback

Ursa glanced at Kiyi as she picked up her bag.

—Remember, Kiyi, Zuko will want ice cream after the play, so don't eat all the ice cream in the freezer, or he'll get angry— she said before leaving.

—Yes, he would be very angry— Kiyi joked, causing Zuko to let out a tired sigh.

Before leaving through the door with Ikem and Ursa, Zuko looked at you over his shoulder.

—Hello...— he murmured, almost in a whisper, his voice tense. Then he turned quickly and left the house, nervous.

"Subtle" Kiyi thought, raising an eyebrow.

"Could he be any more adorable?" you thought, placing a hand on your chest as you watched Zuko walk away.

Then a small voice behind you pulled you from your thoughts.

—Miss Reader?— Kiyi asked, calling your attention.

"This is my chance!" you thought, your heart pounding.

You closed the door with determination and knelt in front of Kiyi, looking at her seriously.

—Okay, Kiyi, first of all, I need you to tell me any relevant information you have about your brother. Then... we'll bake cookies and have the best night ever, okay?— you said solemnly, as if you were about to embark on a secret mission.

—Oh... well... wait, what?— Kiyi replied, confused at first, but then her eyes widened with a mischievous smile. —Ohhh, I see! You like him, you think he's cute.

—Well, I... yes— you admitted with a slight blush. —Will you help me?

Kiyi narrowed her eyes, crossing her arms.

—That depends. Are you ready to take extensive notes on the things he likes and dislikes? To create comparison charts of your popularity versus his? Do you have a label maker? Are your papers wide-ruled or academic?

—I have 37 different colors for my labeler, I always carry my pink calculator, and the wide line is for kids— you said decisively. —Let's do it.

Kiyi watched you for a moment and then smiled approvingly.

—I think you and I are going to get along very well.

A while later…

Papers were scattered all over the room: charts, lists, and even drawings of hearts. You were sitting on the couch, looking at the results of your exhaustive research.

—That's it! We're perfect for each other! Zuko will be my boyfriend!— you said excitedly, holding up a piece of paper as if it were an official declaration.

—All the information we collected points to a “happily ever after” —Kiyi stated, nodding earnestly.

—Kiyi, I need you to swear on your colored pencils that you will never tell Zuko about tonight— you said, staring at her intently.

—I swear!— she replied solemnly.

—Would you take the kindergarten oath?— you asked, raising an eyebrow.

—With a lock, or I'll throw a cupcake in my eye!— Kiyi said, sealing the pact with total commitment.

Flashback pause.

—What?! Kiyi?! Do you realize how much easier my life would have been if you had told me that?!— Zuko exclaimed, completely outraged.

—Excuse me, the oath is unbreakable— Kiyi replied, sticking his tongue out proudly. —Even you must remember that.

You sighed, trying not to laugh.

—And then, in the duel… —you continued narrating, resuming the story with a knowing smile.

Flashback 

Before the duel between Zuko and Jet, you were in the audience, watching the preliminary matches with a palpable sense of anticipation. The atmosphere was electric: the cheers, the clang of swords, the fire illuminating the arena… and you, hands clasped in your lap, waiting to see Zuko.

Then Jet appeared, with his confident smile and an attitude that was a little too relaxed for the occasion. He stood beside you, and before you could react, he tried to put his arm around your shoulders.

—Oh, no, please, Jet...— you said quickly, pushing his hand away with a forced smile. —Um... I just fixed my hair, I don't want to mess it up, you know?

—Okay, I understand— he replied with feigned calm, taking a step back. —You know, when I beat that wannabe prince, I'll dedicate the victory to you.

You rolled your eyes. Your mind was elsewhere. You glanced toward the competitors' area, where Zuko stood with Aang and Sokka, getting ready. Your expression changed instantly: a soft smile crept across your lips without you even noticing.

Jet did notice it.

—Come on, stop staring at that emo— he said mockingly. —I heard he wears that hairstyle just to hide the fact that he's a nerd.

Several people around you burst out laughing. You frowned, indignant.

—That's very rude!— you exclaimed, looking at him with annoyance.

—Come on, I'm just having fun— Jet said, shrugging, clearly enjoying the provocation.

Flashback pause.

—That was so cruel! How could you go to the dance with him?!— Kiyi said, her eyes wide.

—Yes... how could you?— Zuko repeated, visibly irritated, crossing his arms.

—Well— you said, looking at him with a smile —right after the duel between you two... I was going to come looking for you. But I couldn't find you. And time passed...

Flashback.

The next day, you were in biology class with Azula. You sat next to her, with Ty Lee and Mai behind you, and in front of you was Suki, half asleep, struggling to stay awake.

Your mind, however, was elsewhere. The duel, Zuko, his intense gaze, the fire reflected in his eyes… all of it swirled in your mind over and over. And the worst part was that you had to go to the dance with Jet in a few weeks.

—What do you think, Reader?— Azula asked playfully, observing a classmate who had just entered the classroom. —He looks strange, doesn't he?

—Who cares about Chan and his stupid long hair?— you said dejectedly, letting out a sigh.

—Umm… Us? We're two critics—Azula replied with a smile.

—I'm not! You are! Ahhh…— you complained, letting your head fall onto the table.

Azula looked at you, confused.

—¿Okay?

You didn't answer. You only had one thing on your mind: Zuko… and how much you wanted to go home, lock yourself in your room, and even better… play Resident Evil 2, the remake.

No sooner said than done: you barely made it to your room than you collapsed onto your bed with a long sigh, letting the weight of the day melt away. Around you, chaos was your trademark: paintings you'd done inspired by video games and TV shows, a couple of pony figurines adorning your vanity, paintbrushes scattered about, a half-finished painting, and a pile of pencils on your desk. A beautiful mess.

—Ahhh... well —you murmured, looking at the ceiling—, if I can't have the handsome boy, I guess I could play for a while.

You got up with determination, grabbed the PlayStation 4 controller, and turned it on. You had a good collection of consoles, the result of years of love for video games. You loved titles like Bayonetta, Shadow of the Colossus, and of course, the Resident Evil saga. Although… you'd always been a little afraid to play them alone.

—Okay... I can do it— you told yourself, taking a breath. —I have it on assisted mode, I've already made good progress, I just have to keep going... the police station... well, I'm just starting, but it doesn't matter— you murmured with a nervous giggle.

You were a fan of horror games… but more of watching them than playing them.

That night you had decided to play out Claire's story. You were in the police station's reception area, cautiously exploring. Between scares, gunshots, and your own screams, the room filled with adrenaline and laughter.

After a while, you reached an interrogation room with a glass panel overlooking another room. You collected ammunition, a small, elegant box, and a portable safe.

—Ah, that was it! Haha! I laugh at fear, damn it! —you shouted, victorious.

Then, footsteps were heard in the game.

You paused instantly.

—Oh, God... I don't want to... I don't want to... that damn monster is going to appear...— you murmured, your hand in your hair, your heart already racing.

You knew Mr. X was nearby. You pressed play again, repeating under your breath:

—That son of a bitch is going to be there... that son of a bitch is going to be there...— you said, finally sighing. —Well, come on, Claire...

You moved slowly across the room, passing in front of the glass panel.

¡CRASH!

The glass shattered and a Licker burst in.

—AHHHHH! FUCKING SHIT GAME! AHHHH!— you screamed, instantly pausing the game. —Okay! Enough adrenaline for today! That's enough!— you gasped, returning to the main menu.

Your heart was pounding like crazy, but soon you started laughing, euphoric. You loved being scared.

To calm yourself, you picked up your phone and opened Instagram. As you scrolled through the screen, a post caught your eye: a local video game store was selling a collector's edition Leon Kennedy figure.

Your eyes lit up.

Without a second thought, you grabbed your card with the savings from your babysitting jobs, put on a black hooded coat and matching pants —stealth mode activated— and headed straight for the store.

When you arrived, the place was quiet, with only a few people browsing the shelves. You were walking along, lost in thought, looking at the games in the display case, when you tripped over someone and fell to the floor. Your hood slipped off your head.

—Reader?— said a male voice.

You looked up. Zuko.

Your face lit up like a torch.

—No! I came here by accident, understand?! Accident!— you said, jumping up quickly, trying to explain. —If Azula and the others find out I like this stuff, they'll think I'm weird. Please! Could you keep it a secret, Zuko?— you asked, looking at him desperately.

—So... you really like video games...— Zuko said quietly, as if he couldn't quite believe it.

—Was that a question or a statement?— you said, raising an eyebrow. —Oh, yes, I admit it, I'm a geek. I came to buy the Leon Kennedy collectible figure. But please, don't tell Azula!— you pleaded, clasping your hands together in front of your chest.

Zuko looked at you for a moment, serious, and then he barely smiled.

—Actually... I don't think you're weird just because you like video games. I came to buy the complete collector's edition of Resident Evil 3, actually.— He adjusted a pair of dark glasses that were hanging from his shirt.

Your brain stopped for a second.

"Oh, yes... there he is. How handsome! How sexy he looks with those glasses! But how beautiful Zuko looks!" you thought, trying to maintain your composure while blushing.

You let out a nervous laugh.

—Having money is great, how lucky—you said, trying to sound relaxed.

A small line formed at the checkout, and they both stood together. Zuko, a little awkward but determined, tried to start a conversation.

—So… you know a lot of video games?

—A lot? Oh, of course!— you exclaimed excitedly. —I love this whole world! I know everyone from the most famous to the rarest. Have you played Shadow of the Colossus? It's beautiful, I highly recommend it. Although there's also ICO, which is by the same creator, it doesn't have a remake and it only came out for PlayStation 2, I think. And then...

And you kept going. And you kept going.

Zuko, however, didn't seem overwhelmed; he listened with genuine attention, glancing at you occasionally with a slight smile. You knew it, he shared many of your tastes too; Kiyi had already told you that night, which is why you were both perfect for each other.

That day, between your quick words and her silent patience, the two of you managed to connect.

---

The next day at school, the atmosphere was different. Suki hadn't arrived for class, and you knew exactly why. Katara had told you just a few minutes before.

You were leaning against your locker, cell phone in hand, recording a voice message in your most dramatic tone.

—Hey, Suki, you fucking bitch, I already heard you're fucking off on Ember Island, you son of a bitch. Of course! How could you not be on the island when you took my fucking swimsuit! You fucking fucking bitch…!— you said between laughs, trying to sound furious, but you ended up laughing more than anything.

You put your phone away with a satisfied smile. Then you saw him: Zuko was talking to Aang and Sokka at the end of the hallway. Your heart skipped a beat.

You took a deep breath and, with a kind smile, raised your hand.

—Hello, Zuko!— you greeted from afar.

Zuko was in the middle of a very serious conversation with his friends.

—The best DC character of all time is—

He stopped when he saw you.

—Hi, Reader! It was very kind of you to say hello, so... I'll say hello too— he replied, raising her hand awkwardly, but adorably.

You continued on your way, chuckling. When you reached Azula, Mai, and Ty Lee -who weren't far from where he was- you heard them talking about completely different things.

—Oh, I'm craving some pork rinds with chili —Azula said while touching up her lipstick in front of a small mirror.

—And I'll have a caramel frappuccino with extra caramel, Chantilly cream, colored sprinkles and a cherry… with light milk, obviously —you said excitedly, turning on your heels.

Azula rolled her eyes, but Zuko, who had managed to hear from a distance, remained thoughtful.

Because after lunch… something unexpected happened.

You arrived at your classroom with Ty Lee after having lunch with her, Mai, and Azula, the three of you talking nonstop about the series you were watching lately.

—…Then they tied him to a post and were going to burn him next to a witch, and the witch said to him: “You can save yourself, sister witch, let’s just say the spell.” And the rat replied: “Hey, but I’m not a witch.” And the witch answered: “Ah, then fuck you, I curse you, you will be haunted by plague, war, famine and… Laura Bozzo!” —you narrated theatrically as you entered the room.

—No way! Why do you always have to give me spoilers?— Ty Lee complained, laughing.

As you approached your table, you noticed something on top of it.

—Hmm? What's that?— Ty Lee asked, curious.

It was a Starbucks drink, with your name on it.

—Ah! It's a caramel frappuccino with extra caramel, Chantilly cream, colorful sprinkles and a little cherry… with light milk! —you read aloud, fascinated.

—You ordered from Starbucks and didn't tell me? I would have liked something too!— Ty Lee complained with feigned indignation.

—I... didn't order it— you whispered with a disbelieving smile. —Well, thank you, kind stranger!— you said amusedly, taking a sip of your drink.

Behind the door, Zuko listened to everything, hidden, with a discreet smile and a touch of pride.

---

At the end of classes, you were at your locker next to Katara and Toph.

—Hey, look, it's Chan... I think he wants to confess his feelings to Azula— Katara whispered, pointing towards the hallway.

—Oh! Tell me what's going on!— Toph asked, with a mischievous smile.

—Ah, that girl is going to eat him alive… and then spit him out, because the guy is disgusting—you commented amusedly.

—Ha! That was freaking funny— Toph laughed.

Katara nudged you with her elbow, her eyes widened.

—She… she kissed her!

—What?! Did she kiss him?!— you exclaimed in unison with her.

—Is anyone going to tell me what just happened?— Toph asked, desperate for context.

You walked quickly towards Azula, who was coming towards you just as excited.

—Ah! Azula! You fucking Chinese girl! —you said, laughing.

—You racist bitch, you're not going to believe this— she replied with a huge smile.

—You kissed him!— you shouted, and both of you burst out laughing.

—I thought you disliked me— you remarked, raising an eyebrow.

—That's interesting… why not give her the honor? —Azula said in that haughty tone of hers.

Then your gaze met Zuko's, who was a little further on with Katara, Toph, Aang, and Sokka.

—Ah! I have to go, see you tomorrow, Azula!— you said hurriedly.

You approached the group.

—I didn't imagine they were friends— you commented curiously.

—Of course— Katara replied. —Sokka is my brother, you know that. It's just that you're almost always with Azula's demons, so we don't see each other much.

—Besides, you never go out— Toph added with a mocking smile. —You'd rather stay home playing than go anywhere.

Only the three of them —Toph, Katara, and Suki— knew you were a closet geek.

—It's just that when I go out on the street or to a party, I feel like I'd break out in hives— you said with theatrical resignation.

—Wow! Zuko is exactly the same, isn't he, Zuko?— Sokka chimed in, nudging his friend.

Zuko shrugged slightly, looking at you with a half-smile, as if he didn't want to admit it... but you knew perfectly well that he did.

Kiyi is another thing he said about his personality.

—Ah! I have an idea! Why don't we all go out to dinner tonight? It'll be fun! We can study for next week's exams— Aang suggested with his usual energy.

—Mmm… I don't know —you murmured, hesitating.

“I wanted to keep playing Resident Evil 2…” you thought, seriously evaluating your existential priorities.

—Come on, Reader! You help us with math and Zuko can help you with chemistry— Katara said, smiling with innocent malice.

Your gaze met Zuko's. He was wearing a black compression shirt that perfectly showed off his toned body, his hair was slightly messy, and those golden eyes seemed to shine even under the lights of the place.

“I’d be a complete idiot if I didn’t go” you thought, feeling your brain and heart strike an immediate truce.

—Great! I'll go, you convinced me— you exclaimed with a triumphant smile.

---

They all ended up at a fast-food restaurant near the school. Sokka, with his mischievous grin, made sure to seat Zuko next to you.

They ordered everything—hamburgers, fries, milkshakes—and, unexpectedly, Zuko offered to pay everyone's bill.

—Well, once everyone is satisfied, let's start studying! —you said, taking out your notebooks as if you were an academic heroine.

—Thank you for your help!— they said in unison.

—Let's see… you want to start with math, right? —you asked, flipping through your notes—. I more or less remember the from last year…

Two hours flew by amidst laughter, equations, and the occasional failed attempt at concentration. In the midst of it all, Zuko leaned slightly toward you, his voice low and deep, almost a whisper.

—Katara said you were having trouble with chemistry— he commented with a half-smile.

—Oh, yes! I'm not very good at chemistry...— you replied, somewhat embarrassed.

—Good? I'd say the teacher hates you!— interrupted a female voice from the next table.

Your eyes immediately turned towards the intruder.

—Suki!?!— they all exclaimed when they saw her suddenly appear.

—Suki!— you scold her without restraint. —You fucking bitch, you better have my swimsuit clean by tomorrow!— you blurt out, laughing and with a bit of feigned anger.

Sokka and Aang's mouths agape hangs in disbelief. Toph giggles. Zuko stifles a laugh behind his hand, trying to look serious.

—Of course! Don't worry— Suki replies amicably.

—How did you get here so fast from Ember Island?— Toph asked, curious.

—We traveled by plane, we just arrived, right, girls?— Suki replies, addressing Kioshi's fighting team; they nod knowingly. —And yes, as I was saying: the chemistry teacher has a personal grudge against Reader.

You cross your arms, indignant yet amused.
—You wanted me to let my fucking mouth loose!— you say dramatically. —Well, I'm going to let my mouth loose. And let me tell you something: if anyone should leave the academy, it's her. I hope she dies! And I don't regret what I said to her the other day. That Mrs. Judles is a bitch! Who gives homework during Christmas break?— you finish, rolling your eyes.

The table erupts in laughter; the tension breaks into laughter. Zuko can't help but smile and covers it with his hand, trying to hide it, but his eyes betray him: he's completely entertained by your ranting.

The days passed like this: study sessions, mountains of notes, laughter, sleepless nights, and liters of coffee. Finally, the exams arrived… and with them, your inevitable disappointment.

You'd managed to survive everything, except Chemistry. Sure, Zuko had helped you… but how could you concentrate when every time he came near you felt like the air itself became illegally alluring?

Now you sat on the school steps, staring at your exam with the grade marked in red. Failed. A complete and utter disaster.

—Ah... if Zuko were to see these grades, he'd say...— you murmured with a sigh.

—This is terrible— said Zuko's voice right behind you.

—Yes, exactly, he would say that...— you replied without thinking, until your brain clicked. —Ahhh! Hahaha, what a beautiful day, right?!— You jumped up, pretending nothing was wrong.

Zuko crossed his arms, with that half-smile of his. —What happened with the exam? I thought I taught you well.

—It's just that...— you stammered, searching for an excuse worthy of a brilliant mind in crisis.

But Suki appeared just in time to crush you. —It's just that our beloved Reader didn't sleep the night before the exam because she was playing games," she said mockingly.

Zuko raised an eyebrow. —Is that true?

"I'd be crazy if I told him that all I did in class was look at him and think that I wanted..." you thought desperately.

—I… yes —you admitted, looking down, feeling your cheeks burn.

Zuko let out a soft, warm laugh. You ended up laughing too; in the end, what did it matter?

And so… amid laughter, embarrassment and racing hearts, the night of the dance arrived.

You were at home, surrounded by the most glorious chaos an afternoon of getting ready could offer: makeup everywhere, dresses hanging from the lamps, jewelry scattered on the floor, and your friends fluttering around your room. It was barely noon, but the air already smelled of laughter, drama, and disaster.

—You're so lucky, Reader! Jet is the most popular boy in the academy— Suki said, with an excited fan's smile.

—Suki, don't you think he's being a little rude? He hasn't spoken to me much these days...— you said, crossing your arms.

—My mom says that a man's flaws are corrected with constant nagging,— Suki replied with complete seriousness, while Ty Lee, had he been there, would have applauded her ancient wisdom.

Katara held up a brown dress. —What do you think of this one? It goes with Jet— she said, smiling knowingly.

You sighed and remained silent for a few seconds. Then, you turned to them with the expression of someone about to confess a crime. —Girls... I have to confess something...— You swallowed. —I don't want to go to the dance with Jet.

The three of them stood still, as if time had frozen.

—What? But he's gorgeous!— Suki exclaimed, her eyes wide.

—And the captain of the Earth Kingdom fighting team— Katara added, indignant as if she had just heard a blasphemy.

—I know... but he's not for me— you said, taking your phone in both hands and showing the photo of Zuko you'd snapped weeks before. —I like Prince Zuko. I've chosen him to be the love of my life.

You held your phone to your chest, staring at the ceiling with a dreamy smile. The silence was deafening. You glanced at your friends, hoping for support.

—…So? —you finally asked.

Katara cleared her throat. —Reader, you're amazing, you could have anyone... are you sure you want to use that advantage on... Zuko?— she said, looking like someone trying to be diplomatic but failing miserably.

—I can see that he's kind of cute— Suki added, —but shouldn't you, I don't know, sleep on it first?

—No. It's him or no one. We're going to live happily ever after in a crystal palace. I can feel it— you said with absolute conviction, pulling out your notebook with notes about him. —Look at it this way: with Jet Libre... one of you can have him.

You threw down the photo of Jet that he had given you, and Suki and Katara pounced on it as if it were a trophy.

—Zuko is the one for you!— Katara shouted.

—We'll do anything to make sure they're together!— Suki said, pulling the photo away.

—I knew you'd understand— you said with a satisfied smile, as chaos erupted around you. —But first, we need to have lunch. And I need your help cooking.

You got up determined, ready to bake chocolate chip cookies, a gift for Zuko.

You packed the cookies in a small bag and looked at Suki with a hint of despair.

—Help me rehearse what I have to say to Zuko!— you asked, almost pleading.

—Rehearse what?— she replied in a bored tone.

—Come on, it'll be quick— you said, taking her hand and placing it in front of you. You cleared your throat and began to act. —Look, I have to tell you... sit down, Zuko, this table is ours.

—Ahhh —said Suki, without much enthusiasm.

—Now you answer me as if you were Zuko—you asked her, looking at her expectantly—. “It was really good.”

—It was really delicious— she repeated, imitating your tone.

—I'm so glad you liked them! I made the cookies with all my love, especially for you— you said dramatically.

—Can I take a Tupperware container?— Suki asked, looking at the remaining cookies.

—No, Suki! Don't think like yourself, think like Zuko!— you protested, exasperated.

—Ahhh, well… it was fine —she said, feigning seriousness.

—Come on! That's what Zuko would say!— you exclaimed excitedly. Then you took her hand, moved closer, and with the other, stroked her cheek, making her visibly nervous. —I never thought we'd be like this, you and I, on a night like this... answer me!

—What?!— said Suki, confused and a little flushed.

—Well, that's what Zuko would say!— you retorted, stepping back a little.

—No, well… I think that would be going too far —she replied, laughing.

—Go ahead, take things further! —you said without thinking

Suki stared at you, her eyes wide, then placed a hand on your chest. You both froze for a second before she quickly withdrew it.

—It's best we don't play this anymore, God will punish us— Suki said, half-laughing.

—Yes, right? Pure theory is better —you replied, taking the cookies.

They looked at each other for a second and then both burst out laughing, walking together towards your room, still laughing at the impromptu “rehearsal”.

It was time to get ready for the dance.
You, Suki, and Katara started the beauty session with hydrating face masks, the room filled with laughter and the scent of floral products.

Katara pulled out a folded piece of paper with large letters that read: “Operation: Goodbye Jet.”

—Getting Jet away will be very easy, you just have to reject him— Katara said with a triumphant smile, showing you the sheet.

—Let him escort you to the dance and then tell him you're not interested— Suki added as she calmly brushed her hair.

—Why can't I just send him a message saying I don't want to go with him? Why wait?— you asked, applying a green face mask.

—Because it's a courtesy to me— Katara replied with a diva-like air. —I'll be at the ball, ready to comfort him, of course.

—Or I can comfort him just as well as you— Suki replied with a mischievous smile.

Katara rolled her eyes. —Ahem, while one of us picks up the pieces of her shattered pride, you go up to Zuko and ask him to dance. Easy!

Moments later, you were taking off your mask in front of the mirror, still hesitant.
—What if he goes to the dance with another girl? I heard someone wanted to ask him— you said, frowning.

—Please, I'd be an idiot if I resisted you —Suki replied, with slices of cucumber over her eyes.

—And according to my research— Katara added, applying mascara —you two are the perfect match. So, if he brings another girl, that poor thing will have to step aside. All's fair in love and war!

Soon after, Katara was putting on perfume… too much perfume, in fact.

—You should be ready to win over the boy of your dreams— Suki said, giving you the final touches of blush. —I think that's it... Shall we get dressed?

—Ready in just three hours?! Oh my gosh! We must hurry!— Katara shouted.

The room turned into a battlefield: dresses flying, brushes falling, makeup lost.

—A hair clip! I need a hair clip!— Suki shouted.
—I ruined my manicure! My life is ruined!— you exclaimed, with genuine drama.

Three hours of panic later…

You were finally at the ball.
Your dress was soft pink with green details, light and delicate, moving with every step.
Jet was by your side, his arm around your shoulders, smiling as if everything were perfect.

“Get rid of him at the first opportunity you get.”
Azula’s words echoed in your head as soon as she saw you arrive with Jet; clearly, her disapproval was total.

And then you saw it.

Zuko.
He was standing next to Aang and Sokka, laughing and drinking something at a nearby table.

"Ah, that's Zuko! He's alone! I have a chance!" you thought, feeling your heart race.

Jet came too close, so close you could feel his breath brush against your face. His eyes locked onto yours with a confident smile, and you knew immediately what he intended.

—Listen... Jet— you said quietly, trying to sound friendly.

—Yes, Reader…? —he whispered, leaning in even further, his lips a breath away from yours.

—You were very kind to bring me here tonight, but I have to be honest with you... I... umm...— You closed your eyes for a moment, gathered your courage, and smiled brightly as you patted him on the head. —I don't deserve a guy like you! Let's just be friends, okay?

And without giving him time to react, you walked away with a determined stride, leaving Jet completely confused.
At that moment, Suki and Katara appeared as if they had rehearsed it, positioning themselves directly in front of him, blocking his view.

—But... but why?— Jet stammered.

—Would you like me to get you some punch, Jet?— Suki asked with a smile.

—Or would you rather dance with me?— Katara added.

Meanwhile, you walked purposefully toward Zuko, without looking back.
Jet watched you, frowning.

—Wait a minute...— Jet murmured, remembering the times he'd seen you with Zuko. —Oh, don't even think about it! You'll see what I'll tell you with my fist!— he shouted angrily.

Katara and Suki took a few steps back, assessing the drama that was about to unfold.

—Well... he's not taking it well— Katara said with a grimace.
—Shall we see if Aang and Sokka want to dance?— Suki suggested.
—Sure!— Katara replied, and they both walked away, leaving him alone with his fury.

Ignoring the commotion, you reached Zuko. He turned around at the sound of your voice.

—Hello, Prince Zuko...— you said with a nervous smile.

—Reader! You're here— he replied, and his face lit up immediately.

You extended your hand, and he took it gracefully, placing a soft kiss on your fingers. The gesture elicited a nervous giggle, your heart beating faster than you cared to admit.

But the magic was suddenly broken.

—Reader! I need to talk to you, now!— Jet exclaimed, pushing his way through the crowd. —What are you doing with this wannabe emo from the 2010s?

—See? Could you stop saying whatever you feel like! You're very rude!— you yelled at him, annoyed.

Jet let out a bitter laugh. —Ah... I always knew Zuko was in love with you. I wanted to use it to annoy him even more. That's why I invited you. You're not so pretty after all.

—Annoy me, you said?— Zuko interjected, his voice low but dangerous.

He took a step forward, standing face to face with Jet. His gaze was pure fire, and the difference in height was noticeable; Zuko easily towered over him.

—Did you do it?— Zuko asked with a half-smile full of irony.

—It seems so— Jet replied, clenching his fists.

—That's enough, go get a life, Jet. You're rude— you said, no longer able to hold back.

Jet pointed at you, his face red with anger. —You're a foul-mouthed, geeky girl, and you call me rude?

—Yes!— you exclaimed, annoyed. —And I want nothing more than to have Zuko by my side— you said, hugging his arm with determination.

Jet stared at you in disbelief, his jaw clenched. 
—Reader, please, I'm Jet, the captain of the Earth Kingdom team. Think about what you're saying!— he exclaimed, offended.

Zuko didn't move an inch. His voice, calm but firm, sounded like a sharp blow.
—It's over, Jet. Go home.

Jet scoffed, turning away.
—Idiots...— he muttered through gritted teeth, walking away.

You took a deep breath and looked at Zuko, your heart still racing.
—What do you think of crystal palaces?— you asked with a mischievous smile, searching his golden gaze.

He gazed at you with a gentle expression, a mixture of tenderness and amusement that made your knees go weak.
—How about we have our first dance... and then talk about palaces?— he said, offering you his hand.

His fingers brushed against yours, warm and firm, inviting you into a world where only the two of you existed. You took his hand, and he led you to the dance floor, just as a slow song filled the air.

His other hand slid to your waist, gently pulling you closer, while yours rested on his chest, feeling his heartbeat in sync with yours. Zuko looked into your eyes, so close you could see the dance lights reflected in his golden pupils.

—You're amazing, you know?— he whispered.

The world faded away when his lips brushed against yours. It was a slow kiss, tender at first, but filled with that warmth only he could give you. His hand moved up to your cheek, gently caressing it, while you closed your eyes, letting yourself be carried away by the moment.

Just you and Zuko.
Soft, intertwined breaths.
A kiss that promised more than words could say.

End of flashback.

—And we lived happily ever after—you said, hugging Zuko's arm, who was sitting next to you, as you both enjoyed your tea.

—Don't speak in the past tense, my dear, it sounds tragic— he replied with a lopsided smile and a soft laugh that made you blush.

—So... what did Zuko want to give you?— Suki asked curiously.

—It was the Resident Evil 3 game, a physical copy. Sokka told me how much Reader liked it, and that she wanted to get the game— Zuko said, smiling.

—Yes! And he gave it to me after the dance!— you said happily.

Suki, who hadn't missed a thing, leaned towards you with a mischievous smile.
—You never told me... in the end, did you give her the cookies?

You lowered your gaze, feigning innocence.
—Let's just say... he ate one and I ate the rest. He insisted on sharing them with me— you admitted in a sweet, slightly embarrassed tone.

Katara crossed her arms, smiling maliciously.
—So, did he go too far or not?

—Ha! That day we made love in a passionate way… HAHAHA! —you exclaimed laughing, raising your arms as if announcing a great victory.

—Ew!— Azula and Kiyi shouted in unison, making faces of horror.

—Why are you saying that?! That never happened!— Zuko protested, his cheeks burning, covering his face with one hand as everyone laughed.

—I'm just messing around with them, hahaha, ahhh —you said between laughs, leaning back on his shoulder with a dreamy smile.

Zuko glanced at you sideways, trying to remain serious, but ended up letting out a soft laugh when he saw you so happy.

—Although… —you said, lowering your voice, with a knowing and mischievous look— it was an incredible night.

Zuko sighed, blushing to his ears.
—You're impossible...— he murmured, but his smile betrayed him.

You just gave her a kiss on the cheek and whispered:
—And that's why you love me.

Chapter Text

It was midnight. The air inside Zhao's ship smelled of metal, smoke, and tension. Everyone was asleep or pretending to be, except for you… and the supposed “Fred.”

Zuko was crouching by the pantry, awkwardly adjusting his helmet. He wore an ordinary soldier's uniform, a makeshift dog tag hanging from his chest bearing the name Fred. He had just escaped his own ship, from Zhao's attack, and was now trying to blend in with his troops.

Half asleep, you shuffled into the kitchen, wearing baggy pants and a tank top. Your squinty eyes could barely make out where you were going. You opened a container looking for cookies, and when you looked up, you bumped into him.

—Hi, Fred —you greeted, scratching your head.

—Ah! Oh... hello, Reader— he replied, tensing up, his voice barely controlled.

—Zhao's paranoid— you said, yawning. —He says there's an infiltrator on the ship. Pfft, he's probably just pissed off for what he did to Prince Zuko. Sure, I hate him for killing him, but... come on! He was gorgeous. What a waste.— You crossed your arms, sighing dramatically.

Zuko almost choked on his own breath.

—Ahem… yes, well, you know him —he murmured, trying to regain his composure, blushing inside his helmet.

—It'll be hard to catch him if he's disguised in one of our suits— you added, rummaging for another cookie.

—Yes... although as you can see, it's not around here. Perhaps you should look somewhere else— he said hurriedly, turning his back on you as if the oven were fascinating.

Then, a voice broke the silence:

—Prince Zuko, I found you!— shouted Fong, one of the guards, bursting in.

Zuko barely had time to react; he turned on a flashlight and pointed it directly into his eyes.

—Ah, fuck! AH!— Fong shouted, stumbling backwards, covering his face.

—What's wrong? Have you seen Prince Zuko?— you asked, confused.

—Are you stupid or what?! He's right here!— Fong shouted, pointing at Zuko.

You approached calmly, bending down to read his plaque.

—No, that's Fred— you said matter-of-factly, raising an eyebrow.

—No! He's wearing that damn spare uniform! Use your head! I just saw Fred in the hallway two minutes ago!— Fong shouted.

Zuko turned the flashlight back on in his face.

—Ah! Shit! What if it's Fred, why does he keep shining that damn flashlight in my eyes?— Fong complained, rubbing his face.

—That's because you scared him— you replied, crossing your arms, very seriously.

—Scared?— Fong repeated incredulously.

Zuko turned the flashlight back on.

Click.

—I'm going to rip your eyes out!— roared Fong, blinded once again.

—Fong, calm down!— you said, grabbing his arm, though you were holding back laughter. —If you keep yelling like that, you'll wake Zhao up, and then we'll all be dead.

Zuko could barely contain his smile as he lowered the flashlight.

—No! Am I the only one on this damned ship who can see that's a disguise?! I've had enough, show your face, Zuko!— Fong shouted, red with anger.

—Fong, stop bothering Fred!— you complained irritably.

—Ugh, you know what?! I'm fed up. There can't be two Freds here. Where the hell is Fred? Fred?!— he yelled, looking around, the veins in his neck bulging.

—Hello— said a calm voice from the doorway. Fred, the real one, appeared, scratching his head.

—Well, now we have two Freds— said Fong with a nervous tic in his eye.

—Which one?— you asked, confused, still half asleep and rubbing one eye.

—Reader, for God's sake, I'm going to punch you!— exclaimed Fong, desperate.

—Uh… what the hell is going on here? —Fred asked, looking at everyone, more lost than you.

—Let's find Prince Zuko's ghost!— you exclaimed excitedly, half asleep.

—He's Prince Zuko!— Fong shouted, pointing angrily at Zuko.

—Ummm… well I think it's Fred —said Fred, putting a hand to his chin, thoughtfully.

—Are you an idiot?! You're Fred!— roared Fong, almost on the verge of collapse.

Fred shrugged and walked towards the door.

—Huh? Where the hell are you going?!— Fong asked.

—I'm go a little to the shit —Fred replied, leaving with all the calm in the world.

—Uh… I still don't understand it —you murmured, raising your hand innocently.

—Listen, Reader... wait... what time is it?" Fong asked, massaging his temples.

—Hey, friends!— Meg greeted, entering through the door with a thermos of coffee.

—Meg! What time is it?— Fong asked hurriedly.

—Mmm… exactly 5:59 am —she replied, looking at her watch.

—5:59?!— Fong exclaimed. With a jerk, he lifted Zuko's helmet, revealing him. —Here's Prince Zuko!!

—The prince!— you shouted in surprise.

—The prince!— Fred repeated from the doorway, peeking his head out excitedly.

Zuko hurried to put his helmet back on.

—No, no, no! I'm Fred! You already know that!— he said, trying to sound convincing, although his voice was trembling.

—Did you bring the shield?— Fong asked through gritted teeth.

—What shield?— you asked, looking completely confused.

—Didn't you read the manual?!— Fong was about to lose his mind.

—Yes!... Okay, no...— you admitted with a nervous giggle. The stowaway prevention manual.

—Argh! Fine, I'll take care of it— Fong grumbled, advancing towards Zuko.

You took hold of Fong's shirt collar; she was still half asleep, but her patience was hanging by a thread.

—Fong... leave him alone. He clearly had a rough night± you said softly, though your tone made it clear you weren't asking for permission. —Don't be mean and forget what you saw, okay?

—But…!— Fong tried to reply, his face flushed.

—Think, Fong— you interrupted, standing in front of Zuko and glancing at him sideways. —Do we really want Ozai to find out we killed his son? Can you imagine the punishment?

Silence fell like a stone. All the soldiers looked at each other nervously. No one wanted to find out just how "creative" the Fire Lord could be with his punishments. One by one, they began to nod and left the kitchen without a word.

When the last one closed the door, you sighed with relief. Then you looked at him.

—Let me see your face... you're badly hurt— you murmured, moving closer to him.

Zuko hesitated, but finally removed his helmet. The dim light revealed the bruises and scratches that marked his skin. He had a tired expression, and in his eyes… a deep sadness and loneliness was reflected, as if he carried the weight of the entire world.

—Come —you whispered softly—. I'm going to heal you.

—Thank you...— Zuko said in a low voice.

—It's nothing— you replied, smiling slightly. —We soldiers help each other out.

Zuko sat down on a bench while you looked for some cotton and ointment. You approached and carefully cleaned the wounds on his face. He barely moved, watching you with a mixture of surprise and calm.

—We're the same age... right?— he asked suddenly, breaking the silence.

—It's true...— you said, gently dabbing her cheek with the cotton ball. —That's why I defended you. Adults think they can do whatever they want... especially when it comes to us young people. What Zhao did is unforgivable.

—The pirates... he sent them— Zuko said with a sigh.

—I know— you replied, lowering your gaze, your voice becoming softer. —I'm so sorry, Prince Zuko.

He looked up, surprised by how his title sounded on your lips.

—You know I was banished. Why didn't you betray me?

You looked up and gazed at him tenderly.

—You're banished, yes... but that's no reason to kill you. Besides...— You leaned closer to him, lowering your voice. —...you're attractive. It would be a waste to let someone hurt you... or kill you.

The silence between them grew denser, more intimate. Your fingers still grazed his skin, wiping away the last trace of dried blood. Zuko gazed at you intently, his golden eyes shining with something that wasn't just gratitude.

And before you could say anything else, he leaned towards you.

His lips touched yours with a shyness that belied his fire. It was a soft, warm kiss, tinged with the trembling of someone unsure if it would be reciprocated. But it was. You responded with the same tenderness, letting the moment linger, letting the silence and the warmth of the kiss speak for you both.

When they separated, both were breathing calmly, still close, their foreheads almost touching.

—I suppose... I'm in your debt now— Zuko murmured, barely audible.

You smiled, brushing your fingers against her cheek.

—Then you'll have to pay for it… when all this is over.

Chapter Text

You always had that same dream.

Once a month, without fail. Always the same: you were in the arms of a stranger. You didn't know his name, or where he came from… but his warmth, his presence, felt as familiar as if you had lived a thousand lives with him.

He returned that night.

You closed your eyes, letting sleep lull you. When you opened them, you were there: on a soft sofa, the dim glow of a golden lamp illuminating the room. And he, the boy, was waiting for you, sitting there, his gaze fixed on you.

Her eyes… golden like fire, but sad, almost empty. Something was broken inside her.

—Come here—he indicated with a slight movement of his hand.

You approached, your heart pounding. When you sat beside him, he raised his hand and rested it on your cheek. His touch was warm, gentle… as if he feared you were a mirage that could vanish at any moment.

That scar of his… so visible, so cruel. It seemed to tell a story of pain, of punishment. But you didn't ask. You just snuggled into his arms, seeking refuge in that silent embrace that seemed to heal everything.

According to legends, when you dream over and over again about someone you don't know, it may mean that you are soulmates.

And you wanted to believe it.

Meanwhile, in another part of the world, Zuko was sleeping under a tree.

The night's chill enveloped him, his empty stomach a reminder that he hadn't eaten for days, wandering alone through the Earth Kingdom. He had fallen asleep unintentionally, exhausted.

And then he dreamed.

He walked through arid mountains, his lips dry, his clothes dirty, his feet heavy. Until he saw something that forced him to stop.

A rock covered in white butterflies.

And there, in the middle of them… a female figure, she was gigantic, the crag revealed her face to Zuko.

It was ethereal, radiant.

Her warm skin seemed to radiate light; her soft, chestnut hair moved in the breeze. Her eyes were a whole universe. A white halo shone above her head, and from it grew a small white horn adorned with cherry blossoms; feathers adorned her ears. Her eyes shone like a star.

A goddess.

She watched him and smiled. Her voice was a whisper that seemed to embrace him.

—Hello handsome…

Zuko could barely breathe. The woman's beauty disarmed him, but it was her tone that broke him: sweet, compassionate, so unlike anything he had ever experienced.

—What a day, huh?— she said, resting her face on one hand, her nails painted pink.

He lowered his gaze.

Sad. Tired. Alone.

She pointed at him delicately, as if pointing at the soul.

—You look lonely… I can fix that.

She extended her hand, and he climbed onto it without hesitation. He knelt, exhausted, in the center of her palm.

She looked at him tenderly and closed her eyes.

Zuko took off his straw hat.

And then the goddess lowered her face and placed a soft kiss on his head.

A kiss that burned… not by fire, but by hope.

A few weeks passed.

It was almost five in the afternoon, and the air smelled of jasmine tea and freshly baked bread. Zuko or “Lee,” as he should now be called, was finishing his first shift with his uncle at the teahouse. The tables were nearly empty, the sun streamed through the window, and the murmur of the Earth Kingdom city mingled with the clinking of the cups he was cleaning.

“The Earth Kingdom is garbage…” he thought to himself, silently, roughly drying a cup.

Iroh, or Mushi, as everyone there knew him, was delighted with the business. You, on the other hand, were more delighted with the cake. Three slices. Yes, three. Each one accompanied by a kind smile from the old man who served you.

When you finished the last one, Iroh went into the kitchen and spoke to his nephew:

—Lee, there's only one customer left. Take her this tea, I'll clean the kitchen— he said with her usual calm smile.

Zuko sighed wearily and picked up the tray.

“Just another customer. That’s all.”

But when he saw you… he lost his breath.

You were sitting by the window, your face bathed in the golden light of the setting sun. Your hair fell over your shoulders, and your eyes—so familiar—looked up just as he approached. It was you. The woman of his dreams.

And right at that moment, you choked on the last piece of cake.

—Mmh!— you exhaled with your mouth full, trying to maintain your composure.

Zuko almost dropped the tray.

—Please forgive me! Are you alright? I'll get you some water!— he said quickly, clumsily, looking for a glass.

He handed it to you immediately, and you drank it quickly.

—Ah… I’m so sorry… —you said in a soft, somewhat hoarse voice.

—No, no, excuse me...— he replied nervously.

“It scared me… I’ve never seen a girl eat so much. She’s small” Zuko thought.

—It was delicious!— you said suddenly, with a wide, genuine smile, and got up to leave.

Zuko watched you, as if trying to record your every move. He took a step forward, wanting to stop you, wanting to ask if you had dreamed it too, if you had felt that invisible connection that was burning him up inside…

But he didn't arrive in time.

Your hand was lost in the market crowd, and Zuko stood still in front of the door, the tray still in his hands, his heart pounding.

“The Earth Kingdom… is the key” he thought, watching you disappear into the crowd.

You returned to your room, your heart pounding. The moment you closed the door, you threw yourself onto the bed, burying your face in the pillow. You couldn't stop thinking about him… that scar, that look, that voice. It was impossible to deny: he was the boy of your dreams.

The next day, you returned to the restaurant, hope throbbing in your chest. You feigned calm as you sat down, but your hands trembled slightly on the table. Then, you saw him come out of the kitchen.

Your eyes met, and for a moment, the noise of the place disappeared.

"Is it you?... Is it really you? Have my prayers been answered? Or am I dreaming again? Is it really you... my love?" you thought, almost holding your breath.

Zuko approached with slow steps, his heart beating as strongly as yours.

—Welcome… what would you like to order? —he asked in a soft voice, trying to sound calm.

—First of all... what's your name?— you whispered, looking directly into his eyes.

—…Lee… my name is Lee —he replied, looking down slightly.

A smile spread across your lips. It was a warm smile, filled with something that neither he nor you dared yet to call destiny.

From that day on, your visits to the shop became routine. But not just any routine: they were dates disguised as chance encounters, and those dates… slowly transformed into a relationship.

That night, fear was your only companion. Outside, the sky was stained red by distant fires, and the screams of the falling Earth Kingdom echoed on the wind. You clutched your sheet, trembling, feeling that at any moment soldiers would break down the door of your small apartment.

Then, a sound hit your window.

You sat up with a start, your heart nearly leaping out of your chest. You approached cautiously and drew back the curtain…

—Lee...? —you whispered in a whisper.

It was him. There he was, on your balcony, with that serious expression you'd never seen on him before.

—Lee! You're here, you're safe!— you said, running towards him and wrapping him in your arms desperately.

But he didn't hug you. His body was rigid, tense, as if he were carrying the weight of a painful secret.

—Lee… is something wrong? —you asked softly, looking into his eyes.

—We need to talk— he replied in a low voice.

That's when you noticed it. The moonlight illuminated his clothes… red and black, with the golden emblem of the Fire Nation emblazoned on his chest.

You took a step back.

—What happened to your clothes?— you whispered, feeling the air grow heavy.

Zuko looked up, his eyes filled with guilt.

—All this time… I lied to you. My name isn't Lee. I'm Prince Zuko, heir to the Fire Nation.

Your heart broke in that instant.

—Lee… but what are you saying? —you murmured, unable to believe it.

—That's why... I must stay away from you— he said, forcing each word as if he were being torn apart inside. —I know you'll be fine without me. Don't look for me... or ask about me anymore.

You saw him turn towards the balcony, and before you could react, he leaped into the street with the agility of a hunter.

—What?! Fuck you, Zuko!— you yelled, running towards the railing. —You're going to tell me this shit now?! Are you kidding me?! Can I have one fucking minute to think?! After everything you put me through, you pompous rich jerk! You treat me like one of your butlers, you can't just throw me away like that! You fucking royalty think you can do this like you're playing with other people's feelings because we're smaller and not as important! Well, I'm not going to let you, bitch! Let's go!

Your voice trembled, a mixture of anger and tears. But he didn't turn around.

Zuko stopped a few meters ahead, his back hunched, his breath trembling. Every word you said pierced him like a sword.

"I have the sword to protect you... but not the crown to possess you" he thought, clenching his fists tightly before continuing to walk.

And so, without looking back, he disappeared into the darkness of the night…

Leaving you alone, with your soul shattered and the echo of his name breaking your heart.

Zuko returned to the Fire Nation with his soul shattered, trying to convince himself that he had done the right thing.

I knew that if Azula ever met you, your life would be in danger. I knew that a relationship between a prince and a girl from the Earth Kingdom was impossible, a crime in the eyes of the Empire.

But even though his mind kept telling him it was the right thing to do, his heart burned inside, more than any fire he could control.

Meanwhile, you remained locked in your room, with the curtains closed and the silence suffocating every corner.

The cold cups of tea on the table were proof of how long it had been since you'd eaten a thing.

The door opened slowly. Jin peeked his head in with a worried expression before entering.

He came over and sat next to you on the bed.

—You haven't gone out in days... is this all because of a breakup?— she asked gently.

You looked up, your eyes swollen from crying.

—It wasn't a breakup!— you said, your voice cracking. —You need a relationship for that, and we never had one! And we never will! Zuko wasn't my boyfriend... it was Lee... and that Lee was a damn lie.

Your voice trembled, but you weren't crying anymore. It was a deeper weariness, the kind the heart leaves behind when it gives up.

Jin hugged you silently, not knowing what to say.

The days passed, and little by little the pain began to fade, like a wound that stops bleeding… but that never stops hurting when the weather changes.

You had learned to breathe without him, although every now and then, when you looked at the red sky at sunset, you seemed to see his shadow in the distance.

A year had passed. A whole year trying to forget arms that only existed in dreams.

The steaming tea in your hands was merely an excuse to distract yourself from the anxiety that was consuming you. You were at the Jasmine Dragon, the very place where fate, or perhaps the gods, had decided you would meet again.

In front of you, a carefully folded letter. The ink still smelled of fire and nostalgia.

“I want to see you. Z.”

Six months had passed since the end of the war. Ba Sing Se had returned to the Earth Kingdom, and the world breathed a little easier. But your heart… did not.

The tinkling of a bell announced his arrival.

You didn't need to look at it. You felt it.

His presence, his breathing, the warmth he gave off even without touching you.

He sat down next to you, and when you glanced at him, the world stopped.

Zuko —not “Lee”, not the fugitive— but the Fire Lord.

Although that simple red robe could not hide the weight of her invisible crown.

You held the cup of tea, hot, barely trembling between your fingers.

—I'd burn your face with this— you said, with a bitter half-smile.

Zuko raised an eyebrow, the shadow of a smile on his face.

—But you won't... because you love me —she replied in a low voice, full of nostalgia.

You fixed your gaze on him, hurtfully.

—I won't do it because it's already burned… What are you doing here?

Her breathing became shallow.

—I… wanted us to talk. To explain what happened.

You let out an empty, joyless laugh.

—Oh, I'm sorry. All this time I assumed the worst, because I was convinced that the prince could never love someone like me. How naive I was.

—Listen...— he began, taking a step towards you.

—I can't believe you betrayed me!— you interrupted, your voice breaking with fury and pent-up pain. —I'll never forgive you!

Zuko clenched his fists, took a deep breath, and his gaze softened.

—Listen to me...— he whispered, almost pleading. —I was protecting you. I know I was cruel, that I hurt you more than you deserved, but I swear it was for your own good... Believe me… and give me another chance.

He leaned towards you.

The movement caused the fabric of her shirt to open slightly, revealing the golden tone of her skin, the taut muscle beneath it, the scar that time had not completely erased.

Your gaze, treacherous, lowered instinctively. You felt a shiver run through your body, the rage melting into something that hurt more: unextinguished love.

You looked away with a sigh.

—…Well —you murmured, trying to sound cold—, sometimes people make mistakes.

Zuko smiled slightly, a gleam in his golden eyes.

And before you could say anything else, his hands held your face with devastating tenderness.

Her lips found yours, and the world, at last, lit up.

It was a slow kiss, full of guilt, desire, and promises that the fire could still keep.

A kiss that hurt and healed at the same time.

Because despite everything… the soul always remembers where it belongs.

Chapter Text

Zuko had not been the same since his breakup with Mai.

The loneliness weighed on him more than he cared to admit. It wasn't just the silence in his rooms, but the emptiness of feeling unseen.

Mai had been... practical. Correct. But cold as the steel he was so adept at handling.

And now, with the weight of the crown on his shoulders, the young Fire Lord wondered if anyone could love him without seeing him only as that: the scarred prince, the broken ruler.

He had been like this for two months, immersed in responsibilities and thoughts that burned hotter than the flames he controlled.

Zuko, the feared warrior, was afraid of something as simple as no one liking him anymore.

No one who didn't feel sorry for her.

No one who didn't look at her scar before looking into her eyes.

That's why the Avatar team decided to stage an intervention... in their own style.

A few days of vacation on Ember Island, "to clear your head, you royal grump," as Sokka said with a smile full of insolence.

Now they were all in a huge beach house, with windows that looked directly onto the sea.

The sun was slowly setting, painting the horizon orange and gold. Katara and Aang were laughing, Sokka was wearing a coconut on his head pretending to be a king, and Toph had already bet that she could make the Fire Lord himself relax before nightfall.

Zuko was trying. Seriously.

He even smiled a couple of times, although he pretended not to.

But upon returning from a walk, his attention froze.

In front of a neighboring house, there was a small group of young people laughing, sharing music, sand and sea.

Nothing out of the ordinary... except for her.

Sitting on the wet sand, her dark hair falling over her shoulders, her skin golden from the sun.

Her eyes were half-closed, she had a sleepy expression, and a blue lollipop was melting between her fingers.

Zuko felt like he couldn't breathe.

His eyes—treacherous, curious—lowered.

Shapely legs, smooth thighs, a small waist that seemed to have been drawn by fire, generous breasts.

The tattoo of a sword and a moon under his chest seemed almost a challenge… and the one of the two dragons on his rib, a sign he couldn't ignore.

Her white swimsuit left very little to the imagination, and that detail—that damned detail—was what made Zuko blush violently.

He felt his heart pounding in his chest.

For the first time in a long time, she wasn't thinking about her scar.

I wasn't thinking about protocol, or the kingdom, or Mai.

Only in her.

“By Agni…” he thought, lowering her head, trying to cover her face with her hair.

That's when Sokka and Aang bumped into each other's backs.

—Hey, Zuko! What-? Aaagh!— Sokka rubbed his nose.

—Why are you stopping—?

They both fell silent upon seeing the face of the Fire Lord.

Zuko was completely red.

—Zuko?— Aang asked, intrigued.

The fire in her face was so obvious that even Suki smiled mischievously.

Katara crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow.

—And what's wrong with you, oh mighty Lord of Fire?

Zuko covered part of his face with his hand, trying to hide it.

—Nothing… absolutely nothing.

Toph smiled from ear to ear.

—Uh-huh, sure. “Nothing.” Except your heart is pounding like you’ve run ten kilometers.

Sokka looked in the direction he was looking… and his expression changed.

—Oh…

Aang followed him.

—Oh.

Suki let out a giggle.

Katara snorted, making no attempt to hide her mockery.

—Well, at least he's not depressed anymore.

Zuko ignored them, or tried to.

His eyes returned to you, sitting on the sand, with the light of the sunset tinting your skin.

And although he wouldn't admit it even under torture, at that moment he felt something awaken inside him.

A different kind of fire.

One that is not extinguished by discipline or duty.

One that is born from desire.

You had spent the whole morning waiting tables, running between orders, trays and forced smiles.

The restaurant smelled of salt, fire, and baked goods. When you finally finished your shift, your friends insisted you join them at the beach.

And you, though tired, gave in.

The sun was beginning to set over Ember, painting the sea in amber and coral tones.

One of your friends offered you an ice cream, and you gladly accepted.

But between the sticky heat, the hypnotic sound of the waves, and the accumulated sleepiness, your head began to tilt to one side.

When you opened your eyes, you felt the stick become lighter between your fingers.

You looked down.

—Oh no... how awful...— you murmured sadly, watching the melted ice cream sink into the sand like a shipwreck of sky-blue sugar.

—Hey, Reader! Another game of volleyball?— one of your friends shouted.

—Ah… mmm, I don't think so… I'm sleepy —you replied between a yawn and a lazy smile.

—We should call it a day— one of the girls suggested, and everyone agreed.

With a tired body but a light spirit, you stood up, shook your legs and took a long piece of cloth, wrapping it around your waist as an improvised skirt.

The group began walking along the sand, gathering their things, while a melody began to escape amidst laughter.

You hummed softly, your voice blending with the others, floating on the warm evening breeze.

And without realizing it, the afternoon turned into a song.

From a distance, Team Avatar watched the scene.

The sound of the beach, the calm rhythm of the singing, the breeze playing with the laughter… everything seemed like a living painting.

But Zuko didn't see that.

Zuko only saw you.

Your skirt gently waving, your hair damp from the sea, your golden skin shining with the last ray of the sun.

And when your voice joined the singing, the air grew heavier, almost poetic.

—Look how beautiful, how full of grace she is, the girl who goes back and forth with a sweet sway on her way to the sea… —sang one of the girls in your group.

—Girl with a golden body, from the sun of Ember, her swaying is more than a poem, it is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen pass by —added one of the boys, to the rhythm of the samba amid laughter and clapping.

You walked a little further ahead, your soft, almost sleepy voice slipping between the notes.

—Oh, why am I so alone… Oh, why is everything so sad… Oh, the beauty that exists, the beauty that isn't just mine, that also passes by alone…

Your song was a sigh that hurt from being so sweet.

And Zuko felt it. Every word, every note.

The rest of the group continued, their voices mingling with the sea breeze:

—Oh, if only he knew that in his wake the smiling world is filled with grace and it becomes more beautiful thanks to love…

—Small, tanned, young and beautiful, the girl from Ember walks by, and when she passes by, everyone who sees her exclaims: “Ah!” —said one of the girls, twirling on the sand.

—When she walks, she's like a samba that sways with such grace and moves so smoothly that when she passes by, everyone who sees her exclaims 'ah!' added a boy, amused.

---

Katara, watching from behind, followed the singing in a softer, almost melancholic voice:

—Oh, but he looks at her with such sadness... How can he tell her he loves her? Yes, he would gladly give her his heart. But every day, when she walks toward the sea, she looks straight ahead, not at him...— she murmured, her gaze falling on Zuko.

Because he, motionless, had his eyes fixed on you.

The air between you vibrated with something that didn't dare to say.

Sokka was the one who completed the singing, lowering his voice:—Small, tanned, young, and beautiful, Ember's girl walks by. And as she passes, he smiles, but she doesn't see him. No, she doesn't see him… she simply doesn't see him.

---

That night, Zuko couldn't sleep. The sound of the sea crashing against the sand only reminded him of the way your voice sounded in his head, soft and carefree.

He turned over in bed, his thoughts wouldn't leave him alone. He tried to meditate, to breathe, to concentrate… but the image of you, with your sun-kissed skin and that sleepy smile, was still there, more vivid than ever.

Exhaustion finally overcame him.

And the dream began.

I stood on the beach, the sky ablaze with pink clouds. The air smelled of salt and something else… of you. You walked toward him, barefoot, your makeshift skirt swaying in the breeze. Your steps were so soft you seemed to float.

Zuko said nothing. He just stared at you, his heart pounding in his chest. He wasn't the Fire Lord in that moment, nor the exiled prince… just a man who didn't know what to do with so much pent-up desire.

You stopped in front of him, so close that you could feel the warmth of his skin.

Your fingers brushed his cheek, right where the scar marked his story. He closed his eyes. No one ever touched him there. Never. But with you it was different… there was no pity in your touch, only curiosity, tenderness.

His breathing became irregular.

I could feel your breath brushing against her neck, your hands slowly moving up her chest, exploring the warm skin beneath her clothes.

His fingers moved by inertia, catching a strand of your hair, sliding it between them carefully, as if he feared that the mere touch would undo you.

Zuko leaned in, his forehead brushing against yours, your lips just a breath away. The tension between you was unbearable, almost physical.

But just as I was about to kiss you, a gust of wind extinguished the flames.

The sea roared and everything vanished.

He woke up panting, her pulse racing, and the echo of your name in her mouth.

He put a hand to her face, trying to calm herself down.

—It was just a dream...— he murmured, though she knew it wasn't true.

There was no fire in that room. But still, he was burning.

---

The next day dawned with secret plans and knowing smiles.

Sokka had officially declared the "Royal Cupid Operation” underway.

According to him, it was his moral duty to unite the melancholic Fire Lord with the girl who had left him daydreaming. And if that meant moving heaven and earth, even dragons… they would do it.

And fate certainly cooperated.

Because when the group decided to have breakfast at a small local restaurant, the girl behind the counter —the same one from the beach— was you.

---

Your day had started at five in the morning, with the metallic sound of pots and pans and orders that didn't stop.

Your exhaustion was evident even in your soul, and when they assigned you to the counter, you rolled your eyes.

—Oh no, I hate the counter...— you muttered, letting your head fall onto your arm.

—Sorry, it's your turn— your partner replied with a lazy smile.

And so, between yawns and cups of tea that had lost their effect, you attended to the first customers. Your voice was soft, a little hoarse, your gaze half-lost with sleep. The dark circles under your eyes gave you a sweet, careless air, making you seem more human… more real.

The doorbell rang.

You looked up with the inertia of someone who no longer expects anything interesting, and then you saw it.

The group had stopped dead in its tracks. And so had you.

Among them, a young man with black hair and golden eyes was watching you.

His pale skin contrasted with the scar that crossed his face, a mark that far from detracting from his beauty, made him hypnotic.

The collar of his shirt opened slightly, revealing the line of his collarbones and a hint of strength beneath the fabric.

The air seemed to thicken for a second.

Your eyes met his, and there was no smile, no words. Only that silent exchange that sends shivers down your spine.

The rest of the group exchanged discreet glances. Katara suppressed a smile, Aang looked like he was about to say something, and Sokka nudged him to shut up.

You were the first to break the silence.

—Welcome… how can I help you? —you asked with a polite smile, although your voice came out a little softer than usual.

Zuko blinked, as if waking from a trance.

It was Sokka who answered:

—We want the menu, we'll order in a moment.

—Oh, okay, mmm let's see...— you murmured, searching for the menus. Your fingers trembled as you reached for them. —A waiter will take your order in a few minutes.

—Thank you...— Zuko said, his voice lower than necessary, almost intimate.

When her fingers brushed against yours as she received the menu, a slight, almost electric shock ran up your arm.

You stepped back slightly, pretending to arrange something on the counter.

He too looked away, with that slight blush that did not escape any of his friends.

The group headed to a table at the back of the restaurant, where glances could be lost… but intentions could not.

---

Team Avatar was doing what they did best: conspiring in plain sight.

Sokka murmured, Katara tried to hide her smile, and Toph, although blind, seemed to see more than everyone else.

From their tables, they watched you as you attended to other customers. You moved slowly, still with that sleepy air that gave you a strange charm: somewhere between innocent and dangerous. Your hair slipped over your shoulders whenever you bent over, and the sun streaming through the window cast glimmers on your skin.

—He's totally lost— Sokka whispered with a malicious smile.

—Zuko… has been staring at the same person for the last five minutes —Katara added mockingly.

—Not five! Seven!— Suki corrected, amused.

Zuko pretended not to hear them, taking the last sip of tea with a serious expression.

—I'm going to pay the bill— he said suddenly, standing up.

Aang raised an eyebrow. —You?

—Of course— Zuko replied with forced naturalness. "It's the least I can do."

Katara glanced at him sideways. —Oh, right... the least you can do.

The restaurant was one of the most elegant in the port. The bill was as long as a novel. But for the Fire Lord, that was nothing.

In addition, a part of him—the young, insecure, approval-hungry part—thought that maybe, just maybe, that would impress her.

---

Meanwhile, you were behind the counter, bent over, organizing boxes of bills and tea bags. The floor was cold, and the clatter of dishes in the background had you almost mesmerized.

Then the metallic clink of the bell sounded.

You straightened up, blinking a couple of times before focusing your vision.

There they were.

The whole group.

And in front of you, he.

The young man had dark hair, broad shoulders, and an intense gaze. His friends surrounded him, some smiling with a bit too much intent.

—Oh, hello! How can I help you? Is there anything else you need?— you asked in your most professional tone, although your voice still had that sleepy undertone.

—We want to pay the bill— Katara said politely, though her eyes sparkled with restrained amusement.

—Our friend will pay for everything— Sokka added, nudging Zuko with his elbow, almost pushing him towards you.

The young man cleared his throat, a little uncomfortable.

—Ah… yes —he murmured.

—Oh, okay, let's see... you were table ten...— you said as you checked the pile of orders, moving papers with your fingers. You frowned. —Hmm... I can't find it. Maybe they registered it under her name.

You looked up and your eyes met his.

—Hmmm... Name?— you asked with a small smile, having no idea how much that word meant to him.

Zuko's friends exchanged looks of pure disbelief.

"Did you really not know who he was?!"

The only person in all of Ember who didn't recognize the Fire Lord was standing right in front of him... and treating him like any other customer?

Zuko, somewhat taken aback, replied:

—Uh… Zuko.

—Mmh… yum yum…— you murmured distractedly, checking another sheet of paper while biting your lower lip. —Oh, here it is! Yep, yep, that'll be… twenty gold coins and five silver ones— you said, your eyes wide.

—Did we eat that much?— Aang whispered guiltily.

Zuko pulled a small bag of coins from his pants pocket.

He poured the coins onto the counter without hesitation, and among them he left a generous tip.

The metallic clinking was the only thing that broke the silence between the two.

For a moment, their hands were only a few centimeters apart; you could hear the light touch of their fingers against the coins, the heat they gave off even at that distance.

Your eyes met again, and this time, neither of you looked away.

The group left the premises.

---

Once the group left the venue, the silence lasted only a few seconds before Sokka burst into laughter.

—Did you see his face?!— he said, pointing at Zuko. —You didn't know whether to ask him for food or confess your undying love.

Zuko glared at him, his ears burning red. —I was just surprised. I didn't expect to see you there.

—Sure, “surprised”—Toph repeated with a mischievous smile—. Your pulse raced more than when we fought Azula.

Katara sighed, but couldn't help smiling. —Stop bothering him. Although...— her tone lowered—it could be an opportunity.

Sokka raised an eyebrow. —An opportunity for what? For Her Majesty to burn the counter down?

—So I can talk to her— Katara said, crossing her arms. —She doesn't seem to know who you are, and that might be a good thing. She won't see you as the Fire Lord, but... as you.

Zuko lowered his gaze, feeling somewhat uncomfortable. The thought of seeing you again stirred something within him, but he couldn't admit it in front of them.

—I'm not going to 'talk to her.' It doesn't make sense— he muttered.

—Oh, please!— exclaimed Sokka. —Let's go back there for lunch. "Coincidentally."

Zuko rubbed the bridge of his nose. —You guys are impossible.

But inside him, the image of your smile kept repeating itself, clear and bright. 

Once the group left, your colleague appeared at the counter, leaning against it with a mischievous smile.

—I think I fell in love...— you murmured, still looking towards the door through which he had left.

—Whose? The grumpy-faced boy?— she asked, raising an eyebrow.

—Bitter? To me he seems stoic... strong...— you whispered, with a small, dreamy smile.

Your colleague burst out laughing. —But they didn't even speak!

—Exactly,— you said romantically, placing a hand on your chest— that makes him even more mysterious. I felt it, there was something strange about him... something different.

She looked at you, somewhere between amused and resigned. —Oh, you and your impossible love stories.

It was a while before your lunch break arrived. You were in the kitchen, enjoying the peace and quiet and the aroma of freshly baked bread, when your coworker burst in, almost running.

—Reader! Come to the counter now!— she whispered, agitated.

—What's wrong?— you asked, putting your plate aside.

—The boy you like is there! He just walked in, I came to tell you so you can help him.

—Really? Oh! You're my best friend!— You peeked through the curtain, and when you saw him, your heart leaped. —Oh, by the spirits... my husband!— you whispered between laughs, covering your mouth. —Husband husband husband! Ahhhh! He came for me and my body!"

Your colleague could barely contain her laughter as she gently pushed you towards the counter.

You fixed your hair, put on your apron, and took a breath, trying to look natural.

You left with a friendly smile, even though your cheeks were already burning.

—Welcome back!— you said, approaching with a confident stride as you tied your apron's bow at the waist. —Are you here for lunch?

This time, you decided to break the ice. There was something about him that compelled you to speak, even though his mere presence already threw you off balance.

—Yes… —replied the young man with the scar, with that deep voice that seemed to resonate in your chest.

—Oh! I'm so glad you enjoyed your breakfast— you said, smiling as you searched for the menus behind the counter. —Tell me, where are you from? You don't seem to be from around here.

As you spoke, you felt his gaze fixed on you. It wasn't one of those vague or curious stares: it was intense, as if he were analyzing every word you said. That direct attention sent shivers down your spine.

—We travel a lot— he finally replied —but I'm from the Fire Nation, from the capital.

—Ah, the capital!— you exclaimed enthusiastically, turning to face them as you placed the menus on the counter. —How envious I am of the glamour, the sophistication, I've always dreamed of living there!— You sighed softly. —Being travelers, you must have seen incredible places.

Katara nodded, with a mischievous smile. —Yes, quite a few.

Sokka leaned forward with a mischievous expression. —Although lately he only looks at one place.

He nudged Zuko with his elbow, who coughed discreetly, trying to maintain his composure. His ears turned red. You didn't quite understand the joke, but you found the scene endearing.

—And you?— Zuko asked suddenly, surprising you. —Are you from Ember Island?

You leaned against the counter, bending down slightly, letting your voice sound light but with a playful undertone.

—Since I was born. It's a lovely place, though a bit boring sometimes...— You smiled, looking directly into his golden eyes. —But if you keep coming, it can get more interesting.

Zuko raised an eyebrow, somewhere between confused and amused, and Katara almost choked on a laugh.

Aang muttered something about "compatible energies," and Sokka blurted out:

—Cupid, mission in progress.

You handed the menu to Zuko. Your fingers brushed against his for an instant: a brief contact, barely a second… but enough.

His hands were warm, firm, with a rough texture that made you imagine how many battles he had fought.

—Sorry— you whispered, pulling your hand away and feeling the blush rise to your face.

—It's okay— he said, in that deep, calm voice that made you forget the rest of the world. His eyes remained on yours, intense, serene, but filled with something more.

For a moment, nothing else existed but that silent exchange. Not the voices, not the plates, not the clinking of cutlery. Just the two of you, and that electric tension that needed no words.

—Then… —you finally said, breaking the spell with a smile— you can go to a table, a waiter will attend to you shortly.

The group went to the same table as in the morning.

You sighed, taking off your apron and returning to the kitchen, your heart still pounding. Your coworker resumed her position at the counter, giving you a knowing look.

At the table, Zuko's friends exchanged smiles.

—Did you see that?— Suki said quietly, leaning towards the others.

—Yes! Is it possible that... he came out just to see us?— Katara said, her eyes shining with excitement.

—Yes, yes!— Suki agreed enthusiastically, giving Katara's arm a little push.

—Do you think so?— Sokka asked, raising an eyebrow. —Maybe he's just doing his job.

—Please— Suki interjected, crossing her arms with a mischievous smile. —That look wasn't 'just work.'

—It seems a certain girl likes someone...— she added in a sing-song voice.

—No... that's not true— Zuko said, visibly uncomfortable, turning his face away and putting a hand to his scar, almost as a reflex of insecurity.

—She likes you! Of course she likes you!— Katara insisted, leaning towards him. —She couldn't stop looking at you.

—I don't think so...— Zuko murmured, trying to hide the slight blush that was forming on his cheeks.

Aang, with an innocent but dangerous smile, intervened:

—Well, if you don't believe it… why don't we ask her if she wants to go out with you?

—What?!— Zuko nearly choked on the tea in front of him, staring at them in horror.

—Yes!— exclaimed Sokka, slamming his hand on the table. —There's nothing wrong with that! You never asked, so we'll do it for you.

—No!— Zuko said quickly, straightening up. —No, no, no. I... I'll ask him.

The group exchanged knowing smiles. Suki rested her chin on her hand, amused.

—Then you'd better do it soon, Fire Lord… because if you don't, we'll do it ourselves.

You returned to the counter just as the group finished eating. The clinking of cutlery and laughter filled the air, but your eyes—as if they had a life of their own—searched for the young man with the scar among all the faces.

There he was, with that strange serenity that seemed to blend fire and calm. When he stood up, bill in hand, you felt your heart ignite a little.

—That's all— you said softly, extending your hand to receive the payment.

Zuko placed the coins on your palm, and before you could withdraw your hand, he held it for just a moment longer than necessary.

—You haven't told me your name— he murmured in that deep, warm, almost hoarse voice.

You blinked, surprised by the direct question.

—I'm Reader —You smiled, not knowing why your tone sounded sweeter than you expected.

He nodded, with a small, barely perceptible, but genuine smile.

—Hey...— he finally said, scratching the back of his neck rather awkwardly. —There's a fair on the coast tonight. I was thinking of going... and I was wondering if... if you'd like to come with me.

For a moment, you stood still. The lights of the place, the noise, everything seemed to recede.

—A date?— you asked, barely containing a smile.

—Yes —he replied, with an honesty that disarmed you.

---

The sun was setting when you arrived at the beach. The sky was painted in shades of gold and pink, and the sound of the sea filled the air with calm.

Zuko was waiting for you by a small campfire he had made himself—without matches, without any spark, just a flame that danced obediently in the air when he passed his hand nearby.

You stopped, amazed.

—How did you do that?— you asked, fascinated.

He smiled slightly, with a faint blush on his cheeks.

—I am a firebender.

—Firebender...— you repeated, unable to hide your surprise. —It doesn't seem like it... you don't have the typical arrogant attitude of the masters I've seen.

He laughed, and it was a strange, sincere, warm sound.

—I guess I try not to be.

You sat beside him, letting the cool sand touch your bare feet. The fire was reflected on his face, softening the scar and giving him a melancholic air.

—And you?— he asked. —Why do you work at the restaurant?

—To save money, I want to travel, see the world... explore beyond this island.— You sighed, gazing at the sea. —Although, if every night were like this, I think I could stay.

Zuko looked at you. There was something in his expression… a mixture of admiration and restrained desire, a dangerous calm that burned only for you.

He took a small piece of wood and lit it with his fingertips.

—Fire can destroy, but it can also guide— he said gently. —You just have to know how to use it.

The glow illuminated your face, and for an instant, your eyes met.

It was one of those suspended moments, in which the whole world seems to hold its breath.

—You're different— he whispered.

—Is that good or bad?— you asked with a half-smile.

—It's dangerous.— Her answer made you smile even more.

The sea roared softly in the background, sparks from the fire rose to the sky… and you felt that something had begun.

---

You didn't know how he'd gotten there, only that the slow music, the lingering glances, and the touch of his hands had ignited something impossible to ignore. Suddenly, you were standing in front of your apartment door and Zuko was there, his lips pressing against yours with an urgency that made you shudder.

The first kiss was awkward, almost uncertain, but it quickly transformed into something deeper, more intense. His hands trembled slightly as they traced your back, and each breath you shared seemed to ignite an invisible fire between you. You could feel his desire, held back until now, seeking to escape with every touch, with every movement that drew him closer to you.

You tried to find the doorknob, laughing between kisses, but he didn't give you a moment to think. Every time you touched the lock, Zuko gently pulled you closer, pressing you with a new kiss, more urgent than the last, as if he feared that distance would extinguish what had barely begun.

You finally managed to open the door and you both stumbled inside. The door closed with a soft thud behind you, and the whole world vanished: only your breathing, the warmth of your body, and the intensity of your golden gaze existed.

Zuko paused for a moment, resting his forehead against yours, his eyes closed as he tried to regain some control. His voice, barely a whisper, was husky and heavy with desire.

—I don't know what's wrong with me and you…

His hand brushed your cheek with an almost desperate tenderness, in contrast to the contained fire in his gaze.

—I feel that if I continue… I won't be able to stop.

You smiled, still breathless, letting his words pierce you.

—Then don't do it.

He swallowed, averting his gaze for just a moment. You could see the inner struggle reflected in his eyes: duty, self-censorship… and something much stronger than the limits of reason.

—To hell with protocols— he finally whispered, her voice a thread heavy with tension. —I can't resist you.

Your fingers slid across his face, tracing his jaw gently and claiming some of the passion that consumed him.

—You're so handsome… I can't say no to anything with you…

—Have you done anything like this before?— he asked, her voice barely audible and a hint of doubt in her tone.

—Never...— you whispered, moving closer. —But with you, I'd do anything.

The silence that followed was electric; the air itself seemed charged with the tension they both held. Every glance, every touch, every sigh whispered a desire neither could ignore.

They both stumbled toward your bed, almost uncontrollably, as if each step were dictated by the force of their bodies and their pent-up desire. You fell onto the sheets, and Zuko, with the same restrained urgency, ended up on top of you.

His weight wasn't overwhelming, but warm, firm, a mixture of confidence and fire that made your heart race. You could feel the heat of his body, the strength contained in every muscle, and the softness of his lips brushing against yours each time he tilted his head for a brief, tempting kiss.

His hands moved carefully but purposefully, tracing your back, your waist, exploring every curve with a touch that made each breath feel too short. The contact was electric: a brush of fingers that traced your skin and awakened every part of you that still lay dormant.

You could feel his ragged breath, the heat of his chest pressing against yours, and the pent-up tension that vibrated with every movement. Everything about him screamed desire, a fire that needed to be released and that you were more than ready to ignite.

—You…— Zuko murmured, his voice hoarse, barely a whisper over your lips— you don't know what you make me feel.

And you, with a trembling thread of laughter, barely managed to answer as you wrapped your arms around him:

—Make me feel everything.

The world disappeared, and only you remained, the heat, the tension, and a desire that could finally be released.

Zuko kissed you again, his hot tongue fighting against yours, him being the dominant one.

Your nipples were so hard they could be seen through the fabric of your dress, which Zuko noticed, and he took his hand, kneading your breast over your clothes with devotion.

—Really... Don't you find me unpleasant?— Zuko asked, looking you in the eyes.

—I've never seen a man with such beauty... You are the most beautiful man I've ever seen... There's no one better to experience this with for the first time— you said, kissing his scar.

They kissed again, you let the straps of your dress slip down, leaving your breasts exposed. Zuko pulled away, staring at you.

—Reader... Can I touch you just a little?— Zuko asked, slightly blushing.

—O- Of course!— you said excitedly.

Zuko ran his hands beneath your breasts, exploring the new territory, feeling the slight outline of your rib tattoo—three small dragons, outlining your chest. The day he saw you at the beach, your swimsuit covered the middle one.

He brought his fingers to your nipples, gently squeezing them, then suddenly brought his mouth to one, completely dominating you. You arched your back, seeking more contact, as you sighed and moaned softly.

"I can't stop this from progressing..." Zuko thought, bringing his hand to your skirt, moving it up your legs, caressing and kneading your thighs, the tender flesh against his strong fingers and hands, his fingers traveling until they reached the soft flesh near your entrance.

"I need to be a little more assertive, I must make a good impression..." Zuko thought, caressing your entrance, pushing aside your underwear. Stroking your folds, wetting his fingers with your essence.

"She's already wet... Maybe this will do the trick." Zuko thought, inserting a finger inside you.

You were prepared for the best.

You looked at Zuko, your member was peeking out from his dark red pants.

—Do you want to put it in, Zuko?... That...— you pointed to his crotch 

—Don't point your finger at him... Young ladies shouldn't ask for that...— said the embarrassed man.

You moved away slightly, bringing your hand to your crotch, extending your entrance for him.

Zuko didn't hesitate, it was now, the ideal moment had arrived for him, he really didn't care about anything.

The night vanished in a breath, and the warmth of his body still cradling you kept you awake until the first light of dawn. The brush of his lips, the curve of his hands, and the pent-up tension between you had dissipated in caresses and barely audible murmurs, surrendering to each other in a sensual moment, yet without the need for words. There was a small bloodstain on the sheet, a sign of what had happened last night.

You woke to a faint ray of sunlight filtering through the window, and the scent of his skin mingled with the sea breeze, slowly drawing your eyes open. There he was, still above you, his face tilted towards yours, his golden gaze softened by the morning light.

—Good morning…— Zuko whispered, his voice raspy with sleep, a shy smile curving his lips—…I need to confess something to you.

You blinked, still dazed, trying to process what you were hearing.

—What?— you asked, still lying down and with your heart racing.

—I am…— he hesitated, searching for the perfect moment —…the Fire Lord

You stared at him incredulously, amused and surprised, thinking it must be a joke.

He smiled somewhat seriously and, as proof, bent down to his shirt lying on the floor and pulled out a small gold ornament with the symbol of Fire engraved on it, gleaming in the morning sun.

—Ah…— you said, unable to articulate any more words, as your mind processed that the man with whom you had shared the night, the one who made you tremble with a look, was the very heir of the Fire Nation.

Zuko gently stroked your cheek, his warm breath brushing against your skin.

—I'm decided— he said firmly. —I want you to come with me to the capital. With you by my side... As my wife.

You lay down next to him, feeling every muscle relax and his heartbeat sync with yours, as a mixture of desire and trust settled in your chest. You knew any resistance was useless: you'd lost all control from the first glance, from the first touch.

---

Meanwhile, far away from you, Team Avatar was having an emergency meeting, completely confused.

—So... where did Zuko sleep?— Sokka asked, scratching his head, completely lost.

—I don't know...— Katara said, crossing her arms. —...I didn't see him return to the beach house, nor did he appear in the kitchen.

—Me neither...— Toph added. —...he probably found a comfortable place to sleep...in the sand?On the beach?In a tree? I don't know...

Aang rubbed his eyes, exasperated.

—But we said we were going to keep an eye on him! He can't just disappear like that!

Suki just sighed, amused, while the others continued searching for absurd clues.

—Maybe he just... went off to dream about someone— She murmured with a half-smile— ...and I think we know who."

They all looked at each other, impressed by Zuko's boldness, as the morning sun illuminated the beach, and Zuko, in fact, was miles away, resolute and holding you, as he planned to take you to the capital, and you couldn't stop thinking about how close he had come to the fire... and to you.